Originally Posted by Tourist in MSN

Some people buy lower priced panniers that are not waterproof. Or that may have been waterproof at one time but no longer are.

And some people do not want waterproof panniers if they might be carrying damp clothing in a pannier in the hot sun all day on a hot day.

There are some really nice panniers that are not fully waterproof, such as some that have a multitude of pockets.