Thinkday 105L Paddleboard Backpack & 10ft Leash review

? Are you looking for a reliable, travel-friendly solution to carry your inflatable paddleboard and keep it safely attached to you on the water?

Product at a glance

I want to share my detailed thoughts on the Thinkday 105L Waterproof Paddleboard Backpack and 10ft Coiled Leash Set Portable Surfboard Carry Bag with Ankle Safety Strap for Surfing Kayaking. This is a combined kit that promises a roomy waterproof backpack for transport and a classic coiled SUP leash for on-water security. I tested it with packing, carrying, and regular sessions on flat water and small surf to form a practical sense of its strengths and limitations.

What’s included

The package contains a 105L waterproof backpack and a 10ft coiled urethane SUP leash with a neoprene ankle cuff. I appreciate that it’s a bundled solution: the backpack handles storage and transport while the leash keeps me connected to the board during use. The leash is the familiar telephone-line style coil, intended to minimize drag and tangles compared to straight leashes.

Quick overview of key features

I like that the backpack is made from Oxford cloth and PVC for lightweight durability, and that the leash uses 5mm urethane cord with a 1.5-inch quilted neoprene cuff. The backpack compacts down when empty to a smaller size, which is convenient for storage in a closet or car. The leash’s coiled design maintains a shorter in-water profile while extending as needed.

Specifications table

I created this table to break down the main specs so you can quickly see what the Thinkday set offers. I found a table helpful when comparing to other kits or when determining whether the backpack dimensions will fit in my car or travel bag.

Item	Specification
Product name	Thinkday 105L Waterproof Paddleboard Backpack and 10ft Coiled Leash Set Portable Surfboard Carry Bag with Ankle Safety Strap for Surfing Kayaking
Backpack capacity	105 liters
Backpack material	Oxford cloth + PVC
Backpack collapsed size	Approximately 41 x 33 x 2 cm (when empty)
Leash type	Coiled (telephone-line style)
Leash length (stretched)	10 ft (approx. 3.05 m)
Leash cord thickness	5 mm urethane
Ankle cuff	1.5 in quilted neoprene, soft and padded
Intended activities	SUP, surfing, kayaking
Weight (set)	Lightweight (manufacturer not specific)
Additional features	Waterproofing, wide straps, reinforced base

Unboxing and first impressions

When I first opened the box, the bag and leash were neatly folded and secured with a few plastic ties. The materials had a solid feel to them and the smell of PVC was mild and typical for protective fabric items. The initial presentation felt practical and utilitarian rather than premium, which set my expectations for a durable, functional kit rather than a luxury product.

I appreciated that the backpack compressed down to a compact flat rectangle, which makes it easy to stash in a closet or under a bed between trips. The leash was coiled tightly and ready to attach to my board immediately, and the cuff had a soft texture that suggested comfort for longer sessions.

Packaging details

Everything arrived in simple protective packaging with minimal foam or filler—mostly cardboard and ties. I prefer this type of packaging because it keeps shipping waste to a minimum and reduces unneeded plastic.

I noted that there were no detailed printed instructions beyond a small tag; however, setup is straightforward if you have experience with leashes and SUP bags. If you’re new to paddleboarding gear, a short online search will show how to attach the leash to a D-ring or rail saver.

Build quality and materials

I examined the Oxford cloth and PVC for thickness and reinforcement at stress points like straps and seams. The material felt robust enough for regular road and beach use, and the PVC coating gave it resistance to splashes and sand abrasion. The stitching around handles and straps looked consistent, and critical areas had extra reinforcement.

That said, this isn’t a ballistic nylon or fully hard-shell solution; it’s designed to be lightweight and water-resistant rather than bombproof. If you’re hauling a heavy, rigid board or subjecting the backpack to overly rough treatment, I’d recommend extra caution.

Zippers, seams, and hardware

The zippers operate smoothly and the pull tabs are large enough to grab with wet hands or gloves. Seams are double-stitched in key areas and sealed with PVC backing to help keep water out. The buckles and strap adjusters are plastic but feel sturdy for typical usage—just avoid forcing them under heavy strain.

I did notice that metal hardware is limited; the manufacturer opted for molded plastic to reduce weight and rust risk. For saltwater use, that’s usually a smart trade-off, but metal components often give added longevity if properly maintained.

Backpack design and capacity

The 105L capacity is the standout feature for me. I could fit an inflated travel board (deflated boards are obviously smaller), pump, paddle components, leash, wetsuit, towel, shoes, and some small accessories with room to spare. The bag’s rectangular layout makes it easier to slide a packed board inside without fighting awkward curves.

Because the backpack collapses to a compact size when empty, it’s also useful for people who don’t have a lot of storage space at home. For my trips, I appreciated being able to leave the bag in my car or closet without it occupying much room until I needed it.

Pockets, compartments, and organization

The pack is straightforward: a main compartment for the board and a few external straps and pockets for accessories. I missed more internal dividers or a padded laptop sleeve, but this bag is purpose-built for paddleboards and water gear rather than everyday commuting. The external straps secure accessories to the outside and hold bulky items in place.

If you like separating wet and dry items, consider packing small dry bags inside before putting them in the main compartment. That keeps valuables protected and makes it easier to find things at the beach.

Comfort and carry system

The shoulder straps are wide and padded enough for short to moderate walks with a loaded bag. I carried the pack from a parking lot to a launch spot without major discomfort, and the waist strap helped distribute weight during longer carries. The handle placement makes lifting and loading the bag into car trunks pretty straightforward.

If you plan very long hikes to remote launch points, I’d recommend a hip belt with heavier padding or a daypack-style bag. The Thinkday backpack is comfortable for typical beach-to-water carries and travel, but it isn’t intended to be a full hiking pack.

Ventilation and back padding

There’s minimal back ventilation and the padding is adequate but not extensive. On hot days, I noticed some heat buildup against my back during longer carries. For most paddles I didn’t find it prohibitive, but if comfort on long walks matters a lot to you, consider adding a thin mesh back panel or choosing a bag specifically built for long-portage comfort.

Weatherproofing and waterproof claim

The combination of PVC and coated Oxford cloth gives the bag strong water resistance, and it does a good job protecting the board from rain and splashes. The seams are taped in places and the PVC-backed fabric helps bead water rather than soak it in. For road trips, urban travel, and beach conditions, I felt confident the bag would keep my gear dry.

I wouldn’t treat this as a fully submersible dry bag; it’s best for keeping out rain and spray. If you need absolute waterproofing for boat storage in heavy weather, you’ll want a camera-grade dry bag or tub-style case.

Leash design and performance

The 10ft coiled leash uses a 5mm urethane cord that stretches when you get away from the board and snaps back to its compact coil when you’re close. I like the telephone-line style because it reduces drag and is less prone to tangling around my feet compared to straight leashes. In practice, the coil kept me connected but didn’t snag on the board or paddle much.

The leash’s coil profile is helpful in flat water and small surf where you want minimal drag and a quick reconnection. It’s a classic design that gives you an effective safety tether without the constant pull of a long straight line.

Coiled leash behavior in different conditions

On calm lakes and slow-moving rivers the coil stayed compact and largely out of the way, which made paddling efficient. In choppier conditions or stronger surf the leash extended naturally and returned cleanly, though the coiled cord can sometimes hold more sand or grit than a straight leash.

When I swam after the board in small surf, the coil kept the board close enough for easy recovery. The leash did not feel restrictive or overly heavy, and the coil tension was balanced for my body weight and typical conditions—but heavier riders might prefer a thicker cord.

Ankle cuff comfort and security

The 1.5-inch quilted neoprene ankle cuff is soft and padded, making it comfortable to wear for longer sessions. The cuff wraps securely and uses a reliable Velcro closure; I didn’t experience slipping or chafing during use. The soft material reduces irritation that some narrow or hard cuffs cause.

I also like that the cuff is wide enough to distribute load, which matters if I fall and the board pulls suddenly. It felt secure even when I caught a couple of small waves and tumbled, and the cuff did a good job of staying in place.

Usability on the water: Stand Up Paddling (SUP)

As a SUP user, I found the leash reliable for lake paddling and light touring. The coil reduces drag and keeps my board nearby, which is essential when winds pick up or I need to exit the water quickly. I used the backpack to transport an inflatable board easily and switched to the leash for short tours without fuss.

For long-distance touring on open water I usually prefer a quick-release or lighter straight leash, but for beach sessions and casual touring the Thinkday coil hits the sweet spot between convenience and safety.

Surfing use cases

When I used the set in small to moderate surf, the leash handled short wipeouts well and snapped back without tangling. The coil prevented long lines from tangling around my legs, which is a common issue with straight leashes in the surf zone. For heavier surf or large waves, surfers often choose a straight cord for more predictable extension and less chance of the coil holding onto broken whitewater, so consider wave size when choosing.

The cuff was comfortable while duck-diving or popping up quickly, and it didn’t interfere with my mobility. I felt confident that the leash would keep my board within reach in the conditions I tested.

Kayaking and other paddle sports

Although primarily aimed at SUP and surf users, the leash can be useful for sit-on-top kayakers who want a tether to their board. The coiled design helps reduce trailing drag when you’re seated low in the kayak. I did not use the leash for tandem or whitewater kayaking, where specialized gear is more appropriate.

If your main activity is kayaking, especially in moving water, think about whether a leash is necessary or if alternatives (like a tow line or paddle float) would be better for safety and retrieval.

Travel and storage

The backpack is travel-friendly: it compresses small enough to fit in a car trunk and some airline overhead spaces when empty, and the 105L capacity accommodates most inflatable travel boards. I found it convenient to pack a deflated board with pump and paddle into the bag for road trips and to stash the bag in the car between sessions.

When flying, verify airline size rules for sports equipment; many airlines allow soft bags for board gear but may have special policies. I recommend checking ahead and using protective padding around fins and delicate parts.

Airline and car travel tips

For flights, pack delicate parts (fins, pump heads, electronics) in separate padded cases or wrapped in clothes and place them in the center of the bag for cushioning. For car travel, strap the bag horizontally in the trunk to avoid sudden shifting during stops. I always secure the bag with additional bungee cords when carrying it on roof racks or open-bed vehicles.

For international trips, keep a printed receipt or specs sheet if any customs questions arise about the materials or capacity of the bag.

Long-term storage recommendations

Store the bag and leash dry, clean, and out of direct sunlight when not in use to prolong material life. UV exposure and salt can degrade urethane and PVC over time, so I always allow both the bag and the leash to dry thoroughly before packing away.

If you won’t use the leash for an extended period, loosen the Velcro on the cuff and store the coil in a relaxed state to reduce memory stress. For the backpack, avoid folding it sharply in the same place repeatedly to reduce stress on the PVC coating.

Maintenance and cleaning

Rinse both the leash and the backpack with fresh water after saltwater use to remove salt and sand. I make it a habit to detach the leash, rinse it, and hang it out of direct sun until it’s fully dry. For the bag, a gentle wipe with a diluted soap solution and freshwater rinse is usually enough.

Regularly inspect the Velcro, cuff seams, leash swivel, and any attachment points for wear. Reapply a silicone protectant to plastic buckles if they start to feel stiff or dry, and lubricate zippers with a wax-based zipper lubricant to keep them running smoothly.

Rinse, dry, and repair tips

If the coil becomes stiff, soak it in warm fresh water and work it gently to regain flexibility. For small punctures or seam issues on the PVC, use a compatible PVC repair kit rather than generic adhesives. Replace the leash immediately if you notice cuts, kinks, or compromised swivels—do not attempt to repair a compromised leash for safety-critical use.

When to replace the leash and backpack

Replace the leash if the urethane is brittle, has deep nicks, or the swivel shows corrosion or unreliable movement. For the backpack, replace it if seams begin splitting, the PVC backing cracks, or the straps fail under normal load. I treat these items like safety gear: once signs of structural failure appear, it’s time for new equipment.

If you use the leash intensively in saltwater, expect to replace it sooner than occasional users—proper maintenance can extend its life, but it’s a wear item.

Safety considerations

A leash is a safety device: it keeps your board within reach and can prevent you from being separated from a floatation device. I always attach my leash before entering the water and make sure the cuff and attachment point are secure. The backpack helps protect your board and keeps gear organized, but safety on the water depends on good habits and proper gear usage.

Always check local conditions and use the leash appropriate to the water you’re in. A coiled leash is excellent for casual paddling and small surf; for big-wave surfing or certain whitewater conditions, different types of leashes and safety gear may be recommended.

Leash safety best practices

Secure the leash to a reinforced D-ring or rail saver that is designed for leash attachment—avoid fastening to flimsy points that can pull out. Check the cuff and Velcro before each session, and replace any leash that shows signs of fatigue. If you get wrapped in the leash during a fall, practice unclipping or freeing yourself in controlled conditions so you know how to react.

Backpack safety: buoyancy and hazard prevention

The backpack itself is not meant to provide buoyancy or serve as a floatation device, so don’t rely on it for rescue. When carrying heavy loads, use the waist strap and adjust shoulder straps to prevent strain or sudden shifts. For travel with boards that have sharp fins or edges, wrap those parts to avoid cutting the interior or compromising the bag’s waterproof properties.

Pros and cons

I find it useful to summarize what worked well and what could be improved so you can decide quickly if this set matches your needs.

Pros:

• Large 105L capacity fits board and gear comfortably.
• Coiled 10ft leash minimizes drag and tangling.
• Soft 1.5-inch neoprene cuff provides comfort during long sessions.
• Lightweight and compressible backpack for easy storage.
• PVC-coated Oxford cloth offers good water resistance.

Cons:

• Not fully submersible; not a dry-case replacement.
• Plastic hardware may shorten long-term durability under heavy use.
• Minimal internal organization for small valuables.
• Back padding and ventilation are adequate but not exceptional for long portages.

Comparison with similar products

Compared to basic straight leashes and thin carry sacks, this Thinkday set offers more thoughtful protection and better leash comfort. Against premium travel bags with thick padding and metal hardware, it’s lighter weight and more affordable but lacks some high-end durability features. If you want a balance of price, portability, and basic waterproofing, this set is a solid mid-range choice.

Price vs value

I think the value here is strong for casual users and travel paddlers who want an all-in-one solution without spending on high-end gear. You get a capable bag and a functional leash at a reasonable cost, and for many people the modest compromises in materials and hardware are worth the savings.

Who this is best for

This set is ideal for inflatable SUP owners, casual surfers working in small to medium waves, and kayakers who want an easy tether option. If you travel frequently with soft luggage and need a pack that stows small when not in use, this will fit that lifestyle well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I’ll answer common questions I hear or had while testing this set.

Q: Will this fit all inflatable boards? A: It depends on the board dimensions, but 105L is roomy enough for most standard single-person inflatable boards when deflated and rolled. Large touring or multi-person boards may be a tighter fit or require extra compression.

Q: Is the backpack truly waterproof? A: The bag is water-resistant and will keep gear dry from rain and splashes, but it’s not a submersible dry chest. Treat it as highly water-resistant rather than fully waterproof.

Q: Can I use the leash in saltwater? A: Yes—urethane coils and neoprene cuffs are common in saltwater use, but rinse the leash with fresh water after use to prolong life and prevent corrosion of any metal parts.

Q: How durable is the 5mm urethane cord? A: 5mm is robust for casual paddling and small surf; however, heavy or frequent use in rough conditions will wear it faster than thicker cords.

Q: How comfortable is the ankle cuff for long sessions? A: The 1.5-inch quilted neoprene cuff is comfortable and distributes load well, making it suitable for extended sessions without major chafing.

Q: Are there replacement leashes available for this kit? A: Replacement leashes are widely available; ensure you choose a compatible coiled type and check the attachment style for compatibility.

Q: Does the backpack have a separate pump pocket? A: It doesn’t have a dedicated pump pocket built in, but you can secure a pump with external straps or place it inside the main compartment along with the board.

Q: Can I carry other items like a laptop in this bag? A: The bag is primarily for paddle gear and doesn’t have padded laptop sleeves; use a separate padded case inside if you need to transport electronics safely.

Final verdict

Overall, I’m impressed by the Thinkday 105L Waterproof Paddleboard Backpack and 10ft Coiled Leash Set Portable Surfboard Carry Bag with Ankle Safety Strap for Surfing Kayaking for what it aims to do. It offers a generous capacity backpack and a comfortable, effective coiled leash that together create a practical kit for travel and recreational water use. The materials and hardware are sensible for the price point, and with proper maintenance the set offers good value.

My recommendation: If you’re a recreational paddler, traveler, or surfer who wants a compact, all-in-one kit for transporting and securing an inflatable board, this Thinkday set will likely meet your needs. If you require top-tier durability for professional or heavy-surf use, you might prefer more specialized, premium equipment—but for most users this kit is a solid, friendly, and functional choice.

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