Caiman 40 vs Aonyx 25: Which to Choose?
Two fully welded waterproof backpacks. Built for different types of days.
Both the Caiman 40 and Aonyx 25 are built using fully welded waterproof construction designed for real weather.
Both have been used in demanding, wet environments.
The difference isn’t whether they can handle the conditions.
It’s how much you’re carrying, how exposed you expect to be, and how you prefer to organise your kit.
Choosing between them isn’t about capability.
It’s about load profile and use case.
Lightweight everyday carry or higher-capacity outdoor load. Both built for real weather.
Quick comparison:
| Aonyx 25 | Caiman 40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Everyday carry, commuting and travel | Heavier loads and prolonged exposure |
| Capacity | 25L | 40L |
| Laptop sleeve | Yes (up to 13") | No |
| Organisation | Internal organisation | Open main compartment with external carry |
| External carry | Moderate | Extensive (MOLLE / daisy chains) |
| Carry support | Lightweight, everyday comfort | Structured support for heavier loads |
Both use fully welded waterproof construction designed for real weather. The difference is load, organisation and carry style.
Start With Exposure And Load
The Aonyx 25 is a lightweight waterproof backpack designed for daily carry, travel and electronics, but it has also proven itself in sustained, multi-day expedition use where simplicity and weight matter.
The Caiman 40 is built for higher-capacity loads and prolonged exposure, with a structure and external carry system designed for heavier kit and extended time outdoors.
Both are waterproof.
The real question is: what are you asking the bag to carry?
Capacity: What Are You Carrying?
Aonyx 25: 25 Litres
Ideal for:
- Laptop (up to 13”)
- Daily essentials
- Gym kit
- Spare layers for day hikes
- Travel carry-on
Compact enough for everyday use. Structured enough for real weather.
Caiman 40: 40 Litres
Ideal for:
- Bulkier spare clothing
- Multi-day kit
- Fishing or paddling equipment
- Outdoor gear requiring external attachment
Designed for volume, stability and sustained exposure.
Internal Organisation vs External Carry
The Aonyx 25 includes:
- A padded laptop sleeve (up to 13”)
- Internal pocket for smaller items
- Lightweight profile for commuting and travel
It’s suited to situations where access and organisation matter.
The Caiman 40 deliberately does not include a padded laptop sleeve.
Instead, it features:
- A large welded waterproof main compartment
- MOLLE / PALS webbing
- Daisy chains
- External compression straps
It prioritises durability and external attachment over internal dividers.
That difference is intentional.
External carry and modular attachment on the Caiman 40.
Weight and Structure
Aonyx 25 is lighter and more compact. It’s comfortable for daily use without feeling oversized.
Caiman 40 is heavier and more structured. It distributes larger loads more effectively thanks to:
- Padded shoulder straps
- Sternum strap
- Waist strap
- Airflow back panel
If you’re carrying heavier kit for longer periods, that additional support matters.
When to Choose Aonyx 25
Choose Aonyx 25 if:
- You carry electronics daily
- You commute in unpredictable weather
- You travel regularly
- You want waterproof protection without bulk
- You prefer internal organisation
It’s a lightweight waterproof backpack built for real weather, and proven in demanding use when needed.
When to Choose Caiman 40
Choose Caiman 40 if:
- You spend prolonged time outdoors
- You carry heavier or bulkier kit
- You need external attachment points
- You prioritise load stability
- You expect sustained exposure to wet conditions
It’s built for higher-capacity loads and extended time in exposed environments.
The Short Version
Aonyx 25 is everyday waterproof versatility with expedition-proven capability.
Caiman 40 is higher-capacity, heavier-duty performance designed around larger loads and prolonged exposure.
Both use fully welded waterproof construction.
Both are built for real weather.
The right choice depends on what you’re carrying, and how exposed you expect to be.
Still unsure? Contact us and we’ll help you choose.