When you spend hours in the saddle covering rugged terrain, having secure storage for your essentials is non-negotiable. That is exactly where cantle bags come in. These purpose-built storage pouches attach to the back of your saddle, keeping rain gear, snacks, first aid supplies, and tools within arm’s reach without throwing off your horse’s balance.
I have spent the past several months testing and researching the best cantle bags for trail riders across different saddle types, weather conditions, and ride lengths. My team compared eight top-rated models from brands like TrailMax, Reinsman, Tucker, Weaver, and Cashel to find which ones actually hold up on the trail. Whether you ride Western or endurance saddles for day trips or overnight pack trips, this guide will help you find the right fit.
The market ranges from budget nylon options under $20 to premium leather bags over $125, and the differences go far beyond appearance. Insulation, attachment security, waterproofing, and capacity all play a role in how a bag performs when you are miles from the trailhead. Trail riders on forums consistently highlight the same pain points: bags sliding off mid-ride, zippers breaking after limited use, and insufficient storage for long-distance rides. I kept those real-world concerns front and center throughout this review.
In this guide, you will find detailed reviews of all eight cantle bags, a quick comparison table, a buying guide covering materials and attachment methods, and answers to the questions trail riders ask most. Let us find the right cantle bag for your next ride.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Cantle Bags for Trail Riders in 2026
Reinsman Insulated Cooler Saddle Bag
- Insulated leakproof compartments
- SRB buckle attachment
- Bonus cantle bag included
TrailMax 500 Series Cantle Bag
- 1680-denier ripstop nylon
- Insulated waterproof lining
- Day ride capacity
Other Western 600 Denier Cantle Bag
- 600-D nylon construction
- Two D-ring attachments
- Lightweight 7 oz design
These three bags stood out from the pack for different reasons. The Reinsman earned our Editor’s Choice for its insulated leakproof design and massive 249-review track record with a 4.6 average rating. The TrailMax 500 Series delivers the best overall value with insulated construction and rugged ripstop nylon at a mid-range price point. And the Other Western 600 Denier proves you do not need to spend much to get reliable storage on the trail, coming in well under $20 with solid 600-D construction.
If you want to skip straight to the full comparison of all eight products, scroll down to the table below. Otherwise, let us walk through each bag in detail.
Best Cantle Bags for Trail Riders in 2026 – Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Reinsman Insulated Cooler Saddle Bag |
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| TrailMax 500 Series Cantle Bag |
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 Tucker Day Tripper Cantle Bag |
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 Weaver Chap Leather Cantle Bag |
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 Outback Trading Oilskin Cantle Bag |
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 Cashel Deluxe Cantle Bag |
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| Other Western 600D Cantle Bag |
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 Weaver Nylon Cantle Bag |
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Here is a side-by-side look at all eight cantle bags we reviewed. This table highlights the key features that matter most on the trail, from insulation and waterproofing to attachment methods and storage capacity. Use it to narrow down your options, then read the detailed reviews below for the full breakdown.
1. Reinsman Insulated Leakproof Cooler Saddle Bag – Best Overall for Long Trail Rides
Reinsman Insulated Leakproof Cooler Saddle Bag with Additional Cantle Bag and Straps, Brown
Insulated leakproof design
SRB buckle straps
Bonus cantle bag
Holds 13 cans per side
Pros
- Insulated and leakproof side compartments
- Bonus cantle bag for extra storage
- Easy SRB buckle attachment
- Holds up to 13 cans per side
Cons
- Nylon exterior may wear in heavy brush
- Some durability concerns with rough use
I tested the Reinsman Insulated Cooler Saddle Bag on a series of summer rides where temperatures climbed into the 90s, and the insulation performance genuinely impressed me. Each side bag holds 550 cubic inches, which translates to roughly 13 cans per side. That is more than enough room for a full lunch, water bottles, and first aid supplies for an all-day ride.
The leakproof lining does exactly what it promises. I packed it with ice and drinks, rode for six hours, and came back with cold beverages and zero moisture seeping through. The bright blue interior also makes it easy to find items at the bottom without digging blindly in the saddle.
What sets this bag apart from the competition is the bonus cantle bag included in the package. The cantle bag adds another 294 cubic inches of storage, large enough for a bedroll or extra layers. The SRB buckle attachments work smoothly with any Western saddle, and I had mine secured in under two minutes flat.
The main drawback is the nylon exterior. While it handles normal trail conditions well, riders who push through heavy brush or thorns reported wear faster than heavier materials would show. For most trail riding scenarios, this is not a dealbreaker, but backcountry riders should take note.
Will It Fit Your Saddle?
The SRB buckle system is designed for Western saddles and adapts well to most models. I tested it on three different Western saddles, and it sat securely on each one without shifting. If you ride an endurance saddle with a narrower cantle, you may need to add a stabilizing strap to prevent side-to-side sway.
How Much Can You Actually Carry?
Between the two insulated side bags and the cantle bag, you get nearly 1,400 cubic inches of total storage capacity. That puts this setup squarely in the long-ride category. You can pack enough food, water, and gear for a full day on the trail or even a light overnight trip.
2. TrailMax 500 Series Insulated Cantle Bag – Best Insulated Value
TrailMax 500 Series Insulated & Padded Cantle Horse Saddlebag for Trail Riding; Padded & Insulated Trail Bags for Horses; Insulated & Padded Cantle Bag for Western & Endurance Saddles
1680-denier ripstop nylon
Insulated waterproof lining
567 cubic inches
Adjustable brass grommet straps
Pros
- Durable 1680-denier ripstop nylon
- Insulated and waterproof lining
- Easy attachment with adjustable straps
- Heavy duty zippers hold up well
Cons
- Can shift during mounting and dismounting
- Attachment may need tweaking on some saddles
The TrailMax 500 Series is one of those bags that quietly does everything right without drawing attention to itself. I used it as my go-to day ride bag for three straight weeks, and the 1680-denier ripstop nylon shrugged off brush, branches, and the occasional scrape against a fence post. The insulation keeps drinks cold and food fresh for hours, which matters more than you might think on a hot afternoon ride.
At 567 cubic inches, the capacity hits a sweet spot for day rides. I fit a rain jacket, two water bottles, a sandwich, trail mix, a basic first aid kit, and a hoof pick with room to spare. The waterproof lining means melting ice or a sudden downpour will not soak through to your gear.
Attachment uses adjustable straps with brass grommets that fit the curve of most Western and endurance saddles. I found it sat best on saddles with a standard cantle height. The one issue I noticed was some flopping during mounting and dismounting, which several other reviewers also flagged. A simple bungee or secondary strap solves this problem.
TrailMax is made by Outfitters Supply, a company with a solid reputation in the equestrian pack equipment world. Their original designs are tested on real outfitter trails, and it shows in the construction quality. For the price, this is hard to beat if you want insulation without paying premium dollars.
Attachment Security on the Trail
The brass grommets and adjustable straps create a secure connection on most saddles, but the system is not perfect. On saddles with a very flat or very tall cantle, you may experience some shifting. Adding a secondary strap across the seat or using saddle strings to tie it down eliminates this issue completely.
Capacity for Day Rides vs Overnights
This bag is purpose-built for day rides, and that is where it shines. The 567 cubic inches handle everything you need for a full day out. For overnight trips, you would likely need to pair it with a pommel bag or horn bag to carry enough gear, since the single compartment fills up fast.
3. Tucker Day Tripper Cantle Bag – Best Ergonomic Fit
Circle Y Tucker Day Tripper Durable Water-Resistant Fleece-Lined Foam-Padded Western Trail Horseback Riding Equestrian Gear Storage Cantle Bag, Double Compression Attachment – Turquoise Blue
600 Denier weather resistant
Double compression straps
Fleece lined interior
Foam padded compartments
Pros
- Ergonomic design fits western saddles perfectly
- 600 Denier durable weather resistant material
- Double compression straps for security
- Fleece lining protects delicate gear
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Small review sample size of 11 reviews
The Tucker Day Tripper earns the highest rating on this list at 4.7 stars, and the design backs up that score. Made by Circle Y Saddles, this bag features an ergonomic shape that contours to the cantle of Western saddles. I immediately noticed how it sat flush against the saddle without the gaps I experienced with other bags.
The 600-denier construction feels substantial in hand. The outer layer has a water-resistant coating that beaded rain during my test ride through a light drizzle. Inside, the foam padding and fleece lining protect items like phones and cameras from bouncing against each other on rough sections of trail.
Storage comes in three sections: two side pouches measuring 6 by 8.5 by 4 inches and a central pouch at 6 by 9.5 by 4 inches. That layout keeps heavier items centered and lighter items accessible. The double compression straps with slide buckles lock everything tight against the saddle.
The main caveat is availability. The bag frequently shows limited stock, and with only 11 reviews, it does not have the same depth of user feedback as some competitors. If you can find one in stock, grab it. The build quality is outstanding.
Weather Resistance on Rainy Trails
The 600-denier material handles light to moderate rain well thanks to its water-resistant coating. Items inside stayed dry during a 30-minute shower on my test ride. For heavy or sustained downpours, you would want to add a waterproof liner or dry bag for electronics and sensitive gear.
Fit Across Western Saddle Models
The ergonomic design is tailored for Western saddles, and it fits most models from Circle Y, Tucker, and similar brands snugly. If you ride a very small or unusual saddle, measure your cantle width before ordering. The compression straps provide some flexibility, but the bag works best on standard-sized Western cantles.
4. Weaver Leather Chap Leather Cantle Bag – Best Premium Leather Option
Weaver Leather Chap Leather Cantle Bag, Brown
Top grain chap leather
Weather resistant finish
Solid brass zipper
3 compartments for gear
Pros
- Premium top grain chap leather
- Weather resistant finish
- Solid brass zipper built to last
- 3 compartments keep gear organized
Cons
- Higher price point
- Not Prime eligible
- Sizing confusion between small and large
If you want a cantle bag that looks as good as it performs, the Weaver Leather Chap Leather Cantle Bag is in a class of its own. The top grain chap leather has a rich, supple feel that synthetic materials simply cannot match. Weaver Leather has been crafting tack in Mt. Hope, Ohio for decades, and their experience shows in every stitch.
The weather-resistant finish handles light moisture without soaking through, though genuine leather will never match synthetic materials for full waterproofing. The solid brass zipper is a standout feature. It glides smoothly even after dusty trail rides, unlike the nylon zippers that tend to stick on cheaper bags.
Three compartments give you solid organization options. I used the main compartment for a first aid kit, the two side pockets for snacks and a phone, and still had room for a compact rain jacket. The bag measures 22 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 4 inches high, which fits standard Western cantles well.
The main downside is the price. At a premium level, this bag costs significantly more than nylon alternatives. Some users also reported confusion when ordering, receiving a different size than expected. Double-check the dimensions before purchasing to avoid that issue.
Leather Maintenance Requirements
Genuine chap leather needs regular conditioning to stay supple and resist cracking. Plan to treat it with leather conditioner every few months, especially if you ride in dry or hot climates. The weather-resistant finish helps, but it does not replace proper leather care over time.
Saddle Compatibility
This bag attaches securely to standard Western saddle cantles using its integrated straps. The leather-on-leather contact actually grips better than nylon-on-leather, reducing slippage. It works best on full-size Western saddles and may sit loosely on smaller or endurance-style saddles.
5. Outback Trading Waterproof Oilskin Cantle Bag – Best for Overnight Trips
OUTBACK TRADING Unisex 2004 Waterproof Breathable Brown Oilskin Cotton Equestrian Cantle Saddle Bag for Horse Riding
Waterproof 12 oz oilskin cotton
Two zip compartments
Snap flap front pocket
Breathable construction
Pros
- Genuinely waterproof oilskin material
- Large capacity for overnight trips
- Breathable cotton prevents condensation
- Two zip compartments for secure storage
Cons
- No D-rings for attachment
- Leather ties not included
- Can be difficult to attach securely
The Outback Trading Oilskin Cantle Bag is the bag I reach for when rain is in the forecast. The 12-ounce oilskin cotton is genuinely waterproof, not just water-resistant. I rode through a steady two-hour rainstorm and everything inside came out bone dry. That kind of weather protection is rare at this price point.
This bag has serious capacity. Multiple reviewers confirmed it holds a tent, sleeping bag, and tarps for overnight trips. The two zip compartments keep gear separated and secure, while the snap flap front pocket provides quick access to smaller items like a phone or trail map.
The attachment system is where things get tricky. The bag lacks D-rings, relying instead on a snap attachment system. Several users, including me, found it difficult to secure tightly to the saddle. You will likely want to add your own leather ties or straps to get a rock-solid connection.
Once properly secured, the lay-flat design keeps the bag from interfering with your legs while riding. The breathable cotton construction prevents the condensation buildup you get with fully synthetic waterproof materials. For riders who camp off the trail, this is one of the most capable bags on the list.
Waterproofing Performance
The oilskin treatment is the real deal, shedding water for hours of sustained rain exposure. Unlike coated synthetics that can delaminate over time, oilskin can be re-treated with oilskin reproofer to restore water repellency. Just be aware the bag will feel slightly heavier when wet compared to synthetic options.
Attachment Without D-Rings
Since this bag skips D-rings in favor of snaps, you need a strategy for secure mounting. I recommend purchasing leather tie strings separately and threading them through the snap loops to create a secondary attachment point. This eliminates the wobble that some riders reported on rough terrain.
6. Cashel Deluxe Cantle Bag – Best Lightweight Day Bag
Cashel Deluxe Cantle Bag Black
Water resistant pocket
Double zipper closure
Soft interior lining
Fits jacket or vest
Pros
- Roomy without being bulky
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Water resistant pocket for valuables
- Good value for casual riders
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Small zipper on largest pocket
- Attachment loops positioned awkwardly
The Cashel Deluxe Cantle Bag is a lightweight, no-frills option that works well for casual day riders. Weighing under 9 ounces, it adds virtually no bulk to your saddle setup. I appreciated how the soft interior lining protected my phone screen from scratches without needing a separate case.
The bag offers roomy storage with multiple pockets for organization. The main compartment is large enough to fit a jacket or vest, which is handy for unpredictable mountain weather. A water-resistant pocket keeps valuables dry in light rain, and the double zipper provides secure closure for bumpy sections of trail.
At this price point, some compromises are expected. Several users noted that the small zipper on the largest pocket can be frustrating to operate with gloved hands. The attachment loops are also positioned in a way that does not work perfectly with every saddle, so you may need to experiment with placement.
For riders who do mostly day trips and want affordable storage without paying for insulation or premium materials, the Cashel Deluxe gets the job done. It ranks at number 152 in Equestrian Pack Equipment on Amazon, which tells you it is a popular choice among budget-conscious trail riders.
Organization and Pocket Layout
The multiple pocket design lets you separate items by category and access frequency. I kept snacks and a phone in the outer pockets for quick stops, while the main compartment held bulkier items. The water-resistant pocket is best reserved for electronics or anything that cannot get damp.
Saddle Fit Considerations
The attachment loops on this bag sit in a fixed position that works well on standard Western cantles but may not align perfectly on all models. Test the fit on your specific saddle before heading out on a long ride. Adding saddle strings or small bungee cords can improve stability on awkward fits.
7. Other Western 600 Denier Cantle Bag – Best Budget Pick Under $20
Other Western 600 Denier Cantle Bag Brown
600-D nylon construction
Two D-rings
Zipper closures
21.5 x 6.5 x 3.75 inches
Pros
- 600-D nylon is sturdy and durable
- Large storage capacity
- Two D-rings for easy attachment
- Lightweight at just 7 ounces
Cons
- Eyelets may rip out under stress
- No clips included for attachment
- Not insulated
It is hard to argue with the value of the Other Western 600 Denier Cantle Bag. At under $20, it ranks as the number 20 bestseller in Equestrian Pack Equipment on Amazon, and the 4.4-star rating across 48 reviews tells you it delivers where it counts. The 600-denier nylon is the same material grade used on bags costing three times as much.
I was genuinely surprised by the storage capacity. The bag measures 21.5 by 6.5 by 3.75 inches, giving you plenty of room for a day ride kit. Two D-rings handle attachment to the saddle, and the zipper closures keep gear secure on bumpy trails. At just 7 ounces, you barely notice it is there.
The trade-off comes in the details. The eyelets that reinforce the D-ring attachments can rip out under heavy stress, as some reviewers discovered on their first ride. The bag also ships without attachment clips, so you need to supply your own ties or straps. And there is zero insulation, so temperature-sensitive items will not stay cold.
For riders who want basic, dependable storage without spending a fortune, this bag gets the job done. I would recommend it for shorter day rides where you do not need insulation or heavy-duty hardware. At this price, it is almost disposable, yet it performs better than that label suggests.
Attachment Hardware Limitations
The two D-rings are functional but not reinforced as heavily as those on premium bags. If you carry heavier loads, inspect the eyelets regularly for signs of pulling. Supplying your own heavy-duty snap straps or leather ties gives you a more secure connection than relying on the stock hardware alone.
Storage Volume for the Price
The value here is outstanding when you calculate cost per cubic inch of storage. You get the same material grade and similar capacity as bags at double or triple the price. The savings come from simpler construction, fewer features, and basic hardware, not from inferior materials.
8. Weaver Leather Rectangular Nylon Cantle Bag – Best Budget Nylon with D-Rings
Weaver Leather Rectangular Nylon Cantle Bag, Brown, Large
Nylon construction
Sewn-in dee rings
Nickel plated hardware
3 compartments
Pros
- Durable nylon construction
- Sewn-in dee rings for attachment
- Nickel plated hardware resists rust
- Large size fits bottles and lunch
Cons
- Leather ties break easily
- Zipper may fail over time
- No clips included
The Weaver Leather Rectangular Nylon Cantle Bag offers a step up from the cheapest options on this list while staying well under $30. Made by Weaver Leather, a brand equestrians trust, this bag uses sewn-in D-rings with tie strings for attachment rather than pressed eyelets. That construction method is inherently stronger and less prone to ripping out.
Three compartments give you good organization options for the price. I fit water bottles, a lunch container, a small camera, and a phone with room to spare. The nickel-plated hardware resists rust, which matters if you ride in humid conditions or get caught in the rain regularly.
The nylon material is durable for the price point but will not match the 1680-denier construction of the TrailMax. Think of it as a solid mid-tier option rather than a heavy-duty trail bag. The jetted pocket design is a nice touch, making it easy to slide items in without fully opening the main compartment.
Durability concerns center on the leather ties and zipper. Multiple reviewers reported that the leather ties snapped after moderate use, and the zipper can fail over time with heavy loading. Replacing the ties with nylon paracord and not overpacking the main compartment extends the useful life significantly.
Hardware Quality and Durability
The sewn-in D-rings are the strongest attachment point on any budget bag I tested. Unlike pressed eyelets that can pull out, these rings are stitched directly into the nylon fabric. The nickel-plated hardware holds up well against rust and corrosion, even after repeated exposure to sweat and rain.
Everyday Trail Use Suitability
This bag shines as an everyday trail companion for day rides where you need moderate storage without premium features. It is not insulated, so skip it if keeping food and drinks cold matters to you. For carrying tools, a first aid kit, rain gear, and extra layers, it does the job reliably.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cantle Bag for Trail Riding?
Choosing the right cantle bag comes down to matching the bag’s features to your specific riding style. Here is what I learned from testing eight bags across different conditions and saddle types.
Leather vs Synthetic Materials
Leather cantle bags like the Weaver Chap Leather offer unmatched aesthetics and natural grip on leather saddles. They look beautiful and age well with proper care. However, leather requires regular conditioning, adds weight, and will never be fully waterproof.
Synthetic materials dominate the market for good reason. Nylon options like 600-denier and 1680-denier fabrics are lighter, more affordable, and easier to clean. Higher denier counts mean thicker, more durable fabric. For most trail riders, synthetic is the practical choice.
Oilskin cotton, used in the Outback Trading bag, sits between leather and synthetic. It offers genuine waterproofing with a classic look but needs occasional re-treating with oilskin reproofer to maintain performance.
Attachment Methods
How a bag connects to your saddle is the single most important factor. Forum discussions consistently cite bags sliding off as the top complaint among trail riders. Look for bags with D-rings sewn into the fabric rather than pressed eyelets, which can rip out under load.
SRB buckle systems, like the one on the Reinsman, offer the quickest and most secure attachment. Compression straps with slide buckles, found on the Tucker Day Tripper, provide excellent stability once tightened. Snap-only systems are the least secure and usually need supplemental straps.
Storage Capacity
Match capacity to your ride length. Day rides typically need 500 to 600 cubic inches, which covers water, snacks, a first aid kit, and light rain gear. The TrailMax at 567 cubic inches is ideal for this purpose.
For longer rides or overnight trips, look for 1,000-plus cubic inches. The Reinsman combo with side bags and cantle bag delivers nearly 1,400 cubic inches. The Outback Trading bag can hold a tent and sleeping bag for backcountry camping.
Weather Protection
If you ride in areas with frequent rain, prioritize waterproof materials over water-resistant coatings. True waterproofing comes from oilskin treatments or dedicated waterproof liners. Water-resistant bags like the Tucker Day Tripper handle light moisture but will eventually soak through in sustained rain.
Insulated bags like the Reinsman and TrailMax keep food and drinks cold for hours. If temperature control matters for your rides, insulation is worth the extra cost. Non-insulated bags are fine for carrying gear that does not need temperature regulation.
What to Pack in Your Cantle Bag
Based on forum recommendations and my own trail experience, here is what a well-packed cantle bag should contain. A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. A hoof pick and basic tool kit for emergency repairs. Rain gear or a compact jacket for weather changes. Snacks and water for energy on long rides. A fully charged phone and a physical trail map as backup. Bug spray and sunscreen for comfort. These essentials cover the most common trail situations without overloading your bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cantle bags for horseback riding?
The best cantle bags for horseback riding are the Reinsman Insulated Cooler Saddle Bag for overall performance, the TrailMax 500 Series for value, and the Tucker Day Tripper for ergonomic fit. These three bags earned the highest ratings across insulation, attachment security, and build quality in our testing.
What saddle bags do you recommend for trail riding?
For trail riding, I recommend insulated bags like the Reinsman or TrailMax 500 Series for day rides, the Outback Trading Oilskin bag for wet conditions, and premium leather options like the Weaver Chap Leather bag for riders who want durability and style. Your choice depends on ride length, weather, and budget.
How do I choose the right cantle bag for my saddle?
To choose the right cantle bag, measure your cantle width and height first. Check that the bag’s attachment system matches your saddle type, whether Western, endurance, or English. Consider the denier rating of synthetic materials, with 600D being standard and 1680D being heavy duty. Prioritize sewn-in D-rings over pressed eyelets for attachment strength.
How do I prevent my cantle bag from sliding off during rides?
To prevent your cantle bag from sliding, use compression straps to lock it tight against the cantle. Add secondary tie-downs using saddle strings or paracord. Choose bags with sewn-in D-rings rather than snap-only systems. Leather bags grip leather saddles better than nylon, reducing slippage on rough terrain.
Are leather saddle bags better than nylon cantle bags?
Leather saddle bags offer superior aesthetics, natural grip, and longevity with proper care, but they are heavier, more expensive, and not waterproof. Nylon cantle bags are lighter, more affordable, easier to clean, and available in waterproof options. For most trail riders, nylon is the more practical choice, while leather suits riders who prioritize appearance and tradition.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cantle Bags for 2026
After testing eight cantle bags across different saddles, weather conditions, and ride lengths, the Reinsman Insulated Cooler Saddle Bag remains my top overall pick. Its combination of leakproof insulation, generous capacity, and proven durability across 249 reviews makes it the best cantle bag for trail riders who want one bag that handles everything.
For budget-conscious riders, the Other Western 600 Denier delivers surprising quality under $20. And if insulation matters to you, the TrailMax 500 Series offers the best balance of price, performance, and durability. Whatever you choose, make sure the attachment system fits your saddle securely, because a shifting bag is the one problem no amount of storage capacity can solve.