Givi and SHAD are two names that instantly come to mind when searching for a new set of motorcycle panniers and it can often be a tough task to choose between the two.

That is where we come in. Having assessed the many options each manufacturer has to offer, we have narrowed it down, comparing three standout panniers from each brand to help you make that all important decision.

Givi V37 vs SHAD’s SH38x Panniers

Kicking off proceedings are the two largest panniers you should consider. Givi’s V37 and SHAD’s SH38x boast the capacity for an XL full-face helmet and can be locked directly to the motorcycle, but that is where the similarities end.

When taking aesthetic upgrades into account, the SHAD panniers add extra  customisation with the option to have either a carbon or aluminium cover. For context, Givi's V37 only has one option with the silver insert that comes as standard. Secondly, the SH38x offers full waterproof protection to ensure your belongings remain dry while the V37 can only guarantee a degree of water resistance.

With that said, the feature that really sets the SHAD SH38x panniers apart from the competition is its expandability. Although both sets of side cases offer a similar capacity, the SH38x employs a 70mm telescopic extension to expand its capacity by up to 40% or reduce in size when carrying less to allow you to easily filter through traffic.

ST609 Easylock vs E48SR Panniers

Next up under the spotlight is our pick of the medium-sized panniers and the scales back in favour of Givi.

Although both Givi’s ST609 Easylock and SHAD’s E48SR panniers are both made with a resistant, hard shell structure and feature waterproof rain covers, inner bags and adjustable internal strapping, the incentives of the Givi cases simply outweigh those of their SHAD opponent.

The first area in which Givi establishes a clear advantage is storage capacity with an internal volume of 25 litres per pannier which SHAD’s panniers’ combined volume of 30 litres simply cannot compete with. Building on that total difference of 20 litres, Givi go one step further with the inclusion of an inner mesh, inner pocket and secondary compartment to widen the scope of storage options and help organise your belongings.

If that was not enough, the ST609 panniers also employ an ergonomic carry handle to increase comfort and result in a much more smooth transportation in comparison to the standard grab handle of the E48SR panniers. However, SHAD do have additional incentive that should not be overlooked. Both sets of panniers can be locked directly to the motorbike, but the difference with the E48SRs is their focus on increasing that level of security. SHAD’s addition of a combination lock removes the risk of unwanted opening, protecting the items stored internally.

Givi E22 vs SHAD SH23 Panniers

So, with the proverbial scores tied at one a piece, focus turns towards the smallest panniers under consideration and after a less glowing review for the medium-sized cases, SHAD return with a bang to get the better of their Givi opponents once more.

Firstly, looking at cargo carrying capabilities, despite both Givi’s E22 and SHAD’s SH23 panniers being top-opening and having a maximum load of 5kg, the 23 litre capacity of an SH23 slightly betters the 22 litre capacity of an E22. Though a 1 litre difference may not seem like much, the extra 2 litres across a set of side cases makes for a noticeable difference.

Although the lead gained from capacity is not exactly a country mile, SHAD widen the gap when it comes to keeping your belongings dry. Just like the large panniers, SH23 panniers are 100% waterproof, an offering the E22 side cases’ degree of water resistance simply cannot compete with.

Givi vs SHAD Pannier Fitting Kits

With the panniers themselves ticked off and similarities, differences and incentives outlined, you may now be asking how are they mounted to the bike and how does this differ between Givi and SHAD?

Well, to put it plainly, another point goes to SHAD here. The SH23 panniers make use of SHAD’s 3P mounting kit while the SH38x side cases can be mounted to either of SHAD’s 3P or 4P systems, both of which offer a sturdy, secure fitment with a clean, minimalist framework that follows the line of the bike to maintain aesthetics when there are no panniers mounted. Meanwhile, the E48SRs employ the SHAD SR fitting kit for an even more minimal appearance with a similarly robust mount.

Each of the E22, ST609 and V37 panniers are fitted using Givi’s ‘tubular holders’ which in comparison to the sleek SHAD kits, have a noticeably bulkier framework and could best be described as having scaffolding installed on the side of your motorcycle.

So, with all the key features and omitted features taken into account, it is safe to say there can only be one winner.

While it is not a complete whitewash and Givi come out on top in the medium pannier category, overall the pannier crown on this occasion has to go to SHAD. Although it would be unfair to say they are streets ahead, SHAD get the nod due to the element of waterproof protection and expandability of the SH38x with a special mention given to their pannier fitting kits.