In the year 2024, TASMANIAN TIGER introduced a range of new products to the market, including the Sentinel WP 35 backpack. The letters WP in the name stand for "WaterProof". After extensive testing of the backpack by us, here comes a detailed analysis.

What does WP mean?

So the abbreviation WP stands for "waterproof". The materials used and the sealed seams of the Sentinel WP meet the requirements of protection standard IP64, which means that the product is dustproof and protected against splashing water from all sides. But that also means it's not suitable for diving. In order to ensure that the content stays really dry, no openings were installed for drinking hoses or radio antennas. The IP protection class describes the level of protection of a product against the penetration of foreign objects and moisture.

So, take it out into wet environments: During various activities such as snowshoeing and ski tours, the Sentinel WP was used as a daypack, while in summer it was attached to the front of the SUP. No problems were observed with water and snow entering, the content remained dry. However, in continuous rainy weather, the use of waterproof stuff sacks for critical equipment is recommended, even though the backpack itself has a water column of 10,000 mm. Water always finds its way in the long run, unfortunately.

The backpack

The Sentinel WP measures 580 x 270 x 180 mm and is made of robust and abrasion-resistant Cordura 500D. It weighs 1540 g and has a capacity of 35 liters. 

The minimalist backpack has only a spacious main compartment accessible through a rolltop flap. The flap can be closed in two ways, either from the top with a G-Hook or on the sides with sturdy Fastex buckles. 

The main compartment has no organizational structure and is not equipped with storage for a water bladder or other compartments. In other words, simply a large sack.

To ensure optimal sealing of the roll closure, it is recommended to make at least three rolls. But based on experience, water manages to get in after hours of wetness, even if only very little.

On the front of the backpack, there are two circumferential and detachable compression straps with Velcro, which serve to adjust the size of the backpack to the equipment to be carried.

Furthermore, on the front of the Sentinel WP there are two Daisy Chains for Shockcord, which are not included. The so-called Daisy Chain is used for quick attachment of items. When a carabiner is attached to such a Daisy Chain, it is possible to easily carry a water bottle or other equipment.

Additional pockets or equipment can be attached to the side laser-cut MOLLE/PALS slots of the Sentinel WP and the shoulder straps. 

The sides of the backpack are equipped with laser-cut MOLLE/PALS slots, which are clearly visible here.

The Padded Back carrying system has a stiffening insert and soft padding, increasing comfort when hiking in rugged terrain.

The back of the Sentinel WP is designed to have airy properties. Behind the mesh is a ribbed foam insert that cannot absorb water. 

The hard foam part at the bottom can be completely removed to ensure complete drying.

The carrying system of the Sentinel WP has sufficient capacity for a 35-liter backpack. The equipment includes a load control belt, D-rings, and an adjustable chest strap.

The backpack's shoulder straps are wide and shaped to evenly distribute the weight on the shoulders. 

The backpack is also equipped with an adjustable and removable hip belt. From our perspective, however, this proves to be rather dispensable, as it is too narrow and only reduces the sway of the backpack, but does not ensure a good load transfer to the hips.

A practical top carrying handle completes the backpack.

CONCLUSION

The Sentinel WP 35 from TASMANIAN TIGER stands out for its essential equipment, combining minimalist efficiency with a surprisingly light weight. Thanks to IP64, the backpack ensures secure storage of electronics and equipment, even under wet conditions. However, one should not rely on it, as the Rolltop backpack is not 100% waterproof in the long run. Instead, waterproof and protected storage of sensitive devices is recommended in the TT Tac Pouch 1 WP (review will follow soon) or the TT Stuffbag 25 WP. 

The Sentinel WP 35 from TASMANIAN TIGER is available in black or olive for 170 EUR at retailers carrying the brand.

TASMANIAN TIGER online