What You Should Know When Taking Your Camera Out on Rainy Days | Choosing a Waterproof Case and the Genuine Leather Option

"If I buy a waterproof camera bag, I'll be safe even on rainy days." That's half true and half a misconception. Even if the bag is waterproof, it won't do any good if the camera body itself isn't dust- and splash-proof. Conversely, even if the camera is dust- and splash-proof, the situation changes the moment rain hits it as soon as you take it out of the bag. The relationship between rain, the camera, and the bag isn’t so simple that it can be explained solely by the bag’s waterproofing. In this article, we’ll give you an honest breakdown of what you really need to consider when taking photos on rainy days.

Before putting the camera in the bag, first check that the camera body is protected against dust and splashes.

Before you start looking for a waterproof bag, first check whether your camera can withstand the rain. That’s the starting point. If your camera is dust- and splash-proof, you can easily take it out of the bag in light rain and use it to take pictures. However, with a camera that lacks this protection, no matter how waterproof the bag may be, you’re taking a risk the moment you take it out to take pictures. You must first realize that the bag provides protection during transport, not while you’re taking pictures. Even if you’re using a dust- and splash-proof camera, a rain cover is still a good idea for shooting in heavy rain.

"Completely waterproof," "water-repellent," "water-resistant": These are three different things

Waterproof ratings for camera bags can vary greatly depending on the product. There are three key differences you should definitely check before making a purchase.

Completely waterproof: no water penetrates, even when submerged

Products for which a protection class—such as one based on the IP standard—is explicitly specified. They protect equipment near waterfalls, by the water, and during heavy rain. However, camera bags of this grade are rare, and the material tends to be stiff and heavy.

Water-resistant, water-repellent: light rain and drops roll right off

Most camera bags fall into this category. Light rain and water droplets roll off the surface, but during prolonged or heavy rain, they can sometimes reach their limits. Since they’re often labeled “waterproof” even though they’re actually just water-repellent, you should check the specifications carefully.

Includes a rain cover: the bag itself isn't waterproof; the cover provides protection

A bag that isn't highly waterproof on its own, but can withstand the rain when you slip on the included rain cover. Lightweight and comfortable on sunny days, and with the rain cover on rainy days: this switch is possible. Even leather bags can handle rainy days using this approach.

Leather Bags and Rain: It's Not "Impossible," but "There's a Way to Handle It"

A leather bag is not waterproof. That’s a fact. But the idea that it can’t be used on rainy days is a misconception. High-quality genuine leather becomes significantly water-repellent with the right care. In light rain, a well-maintained leather bag can be used without any problems. On days when heavy rain is expected, keep a rain cover on hand or treat the bag in advance with a waterproofing spray: With this care, it will serve you well through all four seasons. On the contrary, it is precisely because genuine leather gets slightly wet from the rain and dries out again and again that it develops its own character. Not “avoiding the rain completely,” but “using the leather with an understanding of the relationship between leather and rain”: that is the right way to care for a leather bag. Oberwerth’s leather models develop precisely this character. The Bayreuth, for example, is made of vegetable-tanned leather that gains a patina with every use, and its padded interior reliably protects your belongings.

And if you want to be able to use it without hesitation even on rainy days: consider a model made of waterproof material

If you live in a region with heavy rainfall or frequently take photos in the rain, it makes sense to choose a model that derives its water resistance from the material itself. High-performance materials such as Cordura® and ReLon® offer excellent water resistance while remaining lightweight. There’s no need for leather care, and they offer the practical advantage of being able to be wiped clean immediately when wet. Oberwerth carries not only leather models but also models that combine Cordura® and leather. For anyone looking to combine water resistance with a premium feel, this is a realistic option. For those who place particular importance on water resistance, we highly recommend the Hydro Line: Bags like the Richard 2 (The SL Bag® Large) made of Hydro leather combine weatherproof durability with the look and feel of leather.

Before you buy a waterproof bag, there's one question you should ask yourself

In what kind of rain do you take photos? Is your camera body dust- and splash-proof? How often a year do you take photos in the rain? Once you’ve answered these three questions, it will become clear whether you need a waterproof bag and, if so, which level of protection you should choose. Not just “any waterproof bag,” but one chosen based on the reality of your own photography will be a bag you’ll use for a long time. And if you’re unsure which model suits your needs, the Oberwerth Bagfinder will guide you in just a few steps from your camera system to the right bag—with a lifetime warranty on every piece.