How important are waterproofing and a shoe compartment in a duffel?

Water-repellent or waxed coatings help protect contents in transit, and dedicated shoe or wet-gear compartments keep clothes separated — both are frequently praised features in the higher-volume listings here like the Wildroad, Urtala, and Fmeida. Just note that 'water repellent' is not the same as fully submersible waterproofing.