Hard Shell Luggage: The Ultimate Protector.
Hard shell luggage (or hardside luggage) is defined by its rigid exterior. At Db, our shells are typically engineered from recycled polycarbonate, a material offering protection while being kind to the environment.
Why choose a hard shell?
There are many pros of the hard shell luggage, here we have gathered some of the key factors:
- Maximum protection: The rigid exterior acts as a shield against heavy impacts. This makes it the best option for traveling with fragile essentials like camera gear or electronics.
- Weather resistance: Materials like polycarbonate are water-repellent, ensuring that rain won’t reach your contents during transit. This adds an extra layer of protection for your gear.
- Easy cleaning: Hard shells are incredibly easy to maintain. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep the exterior looking fresh, and you don't have to wait for it to dry up before your next trip.
Tip: The Ramverk Check-in Luggage Large is the perfect hard shell option when your travel requires more.
Who is the hard shell luggage best for?
Hard shell luggage is the ultimate choice for the seasoned traveler who demands extra protection. It’s for the professional who knows exactly what they need, values a sleek, signature silhouette, and requires a suitcase that can hold fragile gear while staying fresh and functional on the go.
Soft Sided Luggage: The Flexible Lightweight Option.
Soft sided luggage is engineered for the spontaneous traveler who values flexibility and internal volume for the last minute necessities. These bags are designed to adapt to your gear while maintaining a lightweight profile.
Why choose the soft sided luggage?
If you are going for an extended trip, or you like to bring more, the soft sided luggage is a great option.
- Adaptable fabric: Unlike the rigid suitcases, the fabric of softside luggage allows the bag to expand and adapt to the shape of your gear. This is perfect for fitting in those last-minute souvenirs.
- Low base weight: Softside options generally have a lower base weight, helping you stay under strict airline weight limitations without sacrificing space.
- Tight spaces: The flexible frame makes it much easier to squeeze a carry-on into a crowded overhead compartment or a cramped train.
- Integrated protection: Our softside luggage features the Rib-Cage Technology™, an internal structure that provides protection and maintains the bag's shape without adding any bulk.
Tip: The Hugger Roller Bag Carry-on is the perfect luggage for shorter trips, engineered to fit into the overhead compartment.
Who needs a soft sided suitcase?
The flexible adventurer, who wants to throw in their essentials and head on a weekend trip or international adventures without worrying about their gear fitting.
Pro Packing Tips for Any Suitcase.
Regardless of which style you choose, follow these Db-approved principles to travel like a pro:
- Lower the center of gravity: Always pack your heaviest items near the wheels to prevent the bag from tipping.
- Use modular packing cubes: These are essential for categorizing your wardrobe and compressing gear to maximize every inch of space.
- The Hook-Up System™: If you're traveling with multiple bags, choose Db options compatible with our Hook-Up System™ to connect your luggage into one seamless, manageable unit.
- Fill the gaps: Maximize space by tucking smaller items like socks and underwear into gaps or inside shoes.
Read more about: How to pack your luggage.
Personalize Your Set.
At Db, we believe in designing gear that adapts to your life, not the other way around. Whether you lean toward the rigid protection of a hard shell or the lightweight flexibility of a soft side, the best setup is the one that fits your specific travel rhythm.
For many seasoned travelers, the ultimate kit is a hybrid with a hard shell check-in for maximum protection, paired with a soft sided carry-on for easy access and flexibility.
To Sum it Up.
Choose the hard shell luggage if your priority is uncompromised protection. If you are traveling with high-end tech, camera gear, or fragile essentials, and you spend mile after mile in the air the sleek design of the hard sided luggage is a great option.
Pick the soft sided luggage if your priority is versatility and volume. If you need a suitcase that adapts to your gear, stays lightweight to avoid airline fees, and can squeeze into the tightest overhead bins, the flexible frame of a softside bag is your ultimate travel partner.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a spontaneous adventurer, the right luggage is the one that moves with you.
Your Questions Answered.
Is hard shell luggage better than soft?
Hard shell luggage offers superior protection against impact and weather, making it the better choice for fragile gear. Soft luggage is more lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for maximizing packing volume. Both are great options, they are simply engineered for different needs.
Is soft sided luggage good for international travel?
Yes. Because of its lightweight frame and flexible fabric, the soft sided luggage is perfect for staying under strict international weight limits and fitting into the varying overhead compartment sizes of different global airlines.
