hi mike(mineral1), all sides underneath the black piping that surrounds the pack is commercially heat sealed. you fold the excess cover 3-4times and overlap with velcro to keep snug and tight sealed..armband is 2\" and is elastic with velcro. as with pic, notice there is a small loop attachment in which i had it attached so you or i could put a safety cord just in case the armband detaches or tears after a hard crash or wear and tear. thanks...p.s. the model in the pics is not me he should have muscles like i do, haha!! cheers