Test Deuter Rogla 5Compact waistcoat backpack for gravel & MTB

Stefan Frey

 · 03.05.2025

With the Rogla 5, Deuter has a lightweight, vest-like backpack in its programme, as we know it from trail running
Photo: Georg Grieshaber
With the Rogla 5, backpack specialist Deuter has an ultra-lightweight hydration waistcoat for ambitious mountain bikers and gravel riders in its programme. Weighing just 350 grams and with space for a two-litre hydration bladder, the Rogla 5 is aimed at sporty day tours and competitions. Our test shows whether the lightweight Deuter is a smart alternative to stuffed jersey bags or hip bags.

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With the Rogla 5, backpack specialist Deuter is now also getting involved in the ultra-light drinking waistcoat segment for mountain bikers and gravel riders. The new model is geared towards the needs of long-distance runners and mountain runners, who have favoured minimalist, close-fitting backpacks for years. The Deuter Rogla 5 transfers this concept to cycling and is aimed specifically at endurance-orientated mountain bikers and gravel riders.

Ergonomic design for maximum freedom of movement

Thanks to its vest-like design, the Deuter Rogla 5 fits particularly snugly and aerodynamically around the body. With individually adjustable chest straps and an adjustable, elasticated ribbed belt, the lightweight rucksack can be adapted precisely to the shape of the body and still offers sufficient freedom of movement without restricting breathing.

The 5-litre Rogla sits flat and compact on the backPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe 5-litre Rogla sits flat and compact on the backThe Rogla can be adjusted to the body using two chest straps and a Velcro fastener on the rib archesPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe Rogla can be adjusted to the body using two chest straps and a Velcro fastener on the rib arches

To prevent heat build-up on the upper body, Deuter uses air-permeable shoulder straps and a back system with breathable mesh material and ventilation slits on the Rogla 5.

The straps are made of lightweight mesh and have large storage compartmentsPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe straps are made of lightweight mesh and have large storage compartments

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Sophisticated equipment for quick access

In addition to the main compartment for the two-litre hydration bladder, the Rogla 5 has separate pockets on the straps to allow quick access to important items such as smartphones, energy bars or gels. Special holders for sunglasses, an air pump and a helmet round off the equipment. This makes it easy to access the most important items while riding.

In addition to provisions, you also always have the key to handPhoto: Georg GrieshaberIn addition to provisions, you also always have the key to handEven large smartphones fit into the storage compartments on the chestPhoto: Georg GrieshaberEven large smartphones fit into the storage compartments on the chest

Sustainability at the centre of product development

When developing the Rogla 5, Deuter claims to have placed particular emphasis on sustainability. The rucksack is manufactured without the use of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds). This group of substances has been criticised due to their longevity in the environment and potential health risks. The Rogla 5 also bears the bluesign label for sustainability as well as the Green Button and ClimatePartner certifications.

The main compartment on the back is well organised and has numerous drawersPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe main compartment on the back is well organised and has numerous drawers

Deuter Rogla 5: Info and price

  • Weight375 gram (weighed)
  • Volume: 5 litres
  • Hydration bladder capacity2 litres (not included in the scope of delivery)
  • Locking systemAdjustable chest straps, elasticated ribbed belt
  • Back systemBreathable mesh material with ventilation slits
  • Additional equipmentSeparate pockets on the straps, holders for goggles, air pump and helmet, signal whistle
  • Price: 100 Euro

The Deuter Rogla 5 bike backpack in the first test

The best solution to avoid overloading yourself on tour? Simple: take the smallest rucksack you can find. The new Deuter Rogla, for example. Two shoulder strap pockets and the main compartment hold a total of five litres in the vest-like backpack. I put my bar and mobile phone at the front, ready to hand. Tools, pump and valuables are neatly organised on the back - there is a suitable compartment for almost every item - typical Deuter.

The Rogla is super-tight in the terrain, but also a little sweatyPhoto: Georg GrieshaberThe Rogla is super-tight in the terrain, but also a little sweaty

Add a windbreaker and banana and off you go. The Rogla can be neatly adjusted using Velcro straps on the ribcage and two chest straps and clings to my back like a monkey. A little too tight for my taste - although I'm not exactly a Phillip Heath (seven-time Mr Olympia, editor's note). On the other hand, the Rogla sits absolutely wobble-free even on rough descents. Despite the airy design with lots of mesh, sweat quickly runs down the upper back - the fit is so tight that there is no airflow behind the back system. Top: Even a helmet holder and clips for the drinking tube are integrated.

+ very light
+ easily adjustable
+ very well organised, many compartments
+ large quick-access compartments on shoulder straps

- tight fit for strong riders
- little ventilation despite mesh structures

The Deuter Rogla is well organised and surprisingly spacious, but sits a little too tightly on the back for my taste. Racers will appreciate the slim, aerodynamic design, but I prefer to stick with the airier Hip Bag, which also gives me full freedom of movement in the torso area. - Stefan Frey, BIKE editor
Stefan Frey, BIKE editorPhoto: Markus GreberStefan Frey, BIKE editor

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Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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