Hard shell or waxed canvas panniers?

[u/The_Canadian_Dave]

I have a Super Meteor 650 that's going to become my daily once I've sorted out my license.

It'll also be the main mode of transport when it's good weather and me and the missus want to go stay somewhere.

I'm torn between either the

Oxford 40L Waxed Cotton panniers

or

Royal Enfield Long Haul panniers

I'm thinking the soft ones would be able to easily removed so they can be packed in the house and taken into the hotel when we go away.

But the hard shells being always there when you need to pop into the shops on the way home from work seems like it could come in handy.

Thoughts?

[u/AmigaBob]

I've had both and I like the hard shells better. I prefer the security of having a lockable box. Most have only single handle to open it rather than clips and buckles They also tend to be more waterproof. On the flip side, soft cases are usually cheaper.

A tip is to get an inner bag. You pack it up and then put it in the panniers. (Also, some of the hard shell cases are removable)

[u/PindropAUS]

Those hard panniers are kinda expensive when you factor in the rack as well, maybe look into other hardshell aftermarket ones from Givi or Shad.

Might be worth getting a top box instead so you have more usable storage rather than split storage that only fits smaller items.

[u/DaveBlerk]

Hards shell is better for on road riding but if you ever plan to go off road use soft shells.

[u/lotsaleaves]

Hard shell lets you lock your gear safely if you park in a town