I like PolarPro and was really excited for this to come out. So thanks for putting together a solid review! I feel disappointed overall. I like the external material and roll top and I think you nail it when you say it isn't bad for a v1. The problem for PolarPro here is that this seems most similar to Shimoda and, in all the bag researching I've done over the last few years, they seem to have a much more mature offering for less. The dividers look great aesthetically here, but it seems hard to charge this much without good, working bag/ICU combos that usually define the designs at the $350, $400+ tier. If they could update and include a set of v2 dividers here, include the rainfly, and drop to $399... then it's a lot more compelling in my mind.
Todd, as always great video. I suspect you might be looking for a new camera bag. I base this on the few backpack reviews you have done on your channel. Have you considered Shimoda yet? Try reaching out to them. I had bought at least 15 bags before landing on Shimoda in 2018. I too am 6'4" and find the adjustment of the shoulder straps top notch. Also they make a big deal of the different straps they offer. By this I mean that they even go as far as tailor different strap options for Women and Men photographers. Naturally I don't think there will ever be a camera bag that ticks all of someones boxes. But finding something that works long term just feels great.
I don't know, Todd. The stretchy water bottle pouches doesn't look durable. In contrast, Shimoda Action X series has pouches that are not only heavier at the base, they can be folded away. The lack of torso adjustment is a big negative. It doesn't look like it can stand up on its own either. When you put the bag down to reach for something in the rolltop, it's nice for bag to stand up unassisted. And is there a separation between the rolltop and the main camera compartment? If not, then smaller items like granola bars, sunblock, an apple, chap stick, GPS....etc....just falls into the camera section. One could argue to use the zippered compartments for small items, but I like to use the upper sections of my Shimodas as a catch-all type of pocket. As for the front pockets, I can't understand why manufacturers don''t put those accordian-type pleats to allow the pocket to expand. Shimoda is guilty too. As it is, you can't stuff a thicker fleece in there when you build up heat on the trail. It costs nothing and weighs very little to implement. For better or worse, the Boreal is trying to be different for the sake of being different. The market is saturated with bags with removable camera inserts and this one is not like that. So if the bag was setup for a full camera kit, you would have to rip out all the dividers if you wanted more room for jackets, layers, but less camera. This is a swing and a miss for me. Shimoda, F-Stop, Atlas, Mindshift, and NYA -Evo already play this game better.
I’ve had my Boreal for a few months now and my biggest complaint is Polar Pro didn’t use a heavier duty shoulder strap better padding. I carry 2 Z9’s withe a 400/2.8TC attached plus other lenses, etc. and yes totally agree with you I’m 6’1 and the fit is not so great for me
Interesting design. Great observations--thank you. I'd be concerned about the top of the shoulder straps being attached to the horseshoe flap. To me, that appears to be a major stress point and may be subject to failure over time. (Love the bamboo forest.)
Interesting bag. Looks a bit bulky though. I think if anyone is looking for a bag that will be durable and last forever, they should look at Cinebags. Any suggestions for a lightweight bag Todd?
I think I've been better for a much lower price... even looking at the durability, the material choice doesn't seem very coherent. I'd be curious to see a review of some Wandrd bags. I own the Prvke and it's great for lightweight travels and everyday use. The built quality is great and they offer unlimited warranty.
This bag has the absolute worst Velcro inserts every time I put my equipment back in I have to re set the inserts because they’ve all fallen apart. I don’t know how this passed QC. It’s actually ridiculous.
I like PolarPro and was really excited for this to come out. So thanks for putting together a solid review! I feel disappointed overall. I like the external material and roll top and I think you nail it when you say it isn't bad for a v1. The problem for PolarPro here is that this seems most similar to Shimoda and, in all the bag researching I've done over the last few years, they seem to have a much more mature offering for less. The dividers look great aesthetically here, but it seems hard to charge this much without good, working bag/ICU combos that usually define the designs at the $350, $400+ tier. If they could update and include a set of v2 dividers here, include the rainfly, and drop to $399... then it's a lot more compelling in my mind.
Great review Todd. I’ve always loved roll top bags. Collapses neatly when not full. Love your content Todd.
Love Your Videos man,
Keep up the good work!! 🙌
This bag looks like a mix of Peter Mckinnon's Nomatic and the Wandrd Bags.
Todd, as always great video. I suspect you might be looking for a new camera bag. I base this on the few backpack reviews you have done on your channel. Have you considered Shimoda yet? Try reaching out to them. I had bought at least 15 bags before landing on Shimoda in 2018. I too am 6'4" and find the adjustment of the shoulder straps top notch. Also they make a big deal of the different straps they offer. By this I mean that they even go as far as tailor different strap options for Women and Men photographers. Naturally I don't think there will ever be a camera bag that ticks all of someones boxes. But finding something that works long term just feels great.
Not a touch on the shimoda bags
I don't know, Todd. The stretchy water bottle pouches doesn't look durable. In contrast, Shimoda Action X series has pouches that are not only heavier at the base, they can be folded away. The lack of torso adjustment is a big negative. It doesn't look like it can stand up on its own either. When you put the bag down to reach for something in the rolltop, it's nice for bag to stand up unassisted. And is there a separation between the rolltop and the main camera compartment? If not, then smaller items like granola bars, sunblock, an apple, chap stick, GPS....etc....just falls into the camera section. One could argue to use the zippered compartments for small items, but I like to use the upper sections of my Shimodas as a catch-all type of pocket. As for the front pockets, I can't understand why manufacturers don''t put those accordian-type pleats to allow the pocket to expand. Shimoda is guilty too. As it is, you can't stuff a thicker fleece in there when you build up heat on the trail. It costs nothing and weighs very little to implement.
For better or worse, the Boreal is trying to be different for the sake of being different. The market is saturated with bags with removable camera inserts and this one is not like that. So if the bag was setup for a full camera kit, you would have to rip out all the dividers if you wanted more room for jackets, layers, but less camera. This is a swing and a miss for me. Shimoda, F-Stop, Atlas, Mindshift, and NYA -Evo already play this game better.
I’ve had my Boreal for a few months now and my biggest complaint is Polar Pro didn’t use a heavier duty shoulder strap better padding. I carry 2 Z9’s withe a 400/2.8TC attached plus other lenses, etc. and yes totally agree with you I’m 6’1 and the fit is not so great for me
Interesting design. Great observations--thank you. I'd be concerned about the top of the shoulder straps being attached to the horseshoe flap. To me, that appears to be a major stress point and may be subject to failure over time. (Love the bamboo forest.)
Great video, but the pack is not even close to Atlas packs out of Phoenix AZ. :)
Wondering if it will fit a 500mm f4 without the hood
Interesting bag. Looks a bit bulky though. I think if anyone is looking for a bag that will be durable and last forever, they should look at Cinebags. Any suggestions for a lightweight bag Todd?
I think I've been better for a much lower price... even looking at the durability, the material choice doesn't seem very coherent.
I'd be curious to see a review of some Wandrd bags. I own the Prvke and it's great for lightweight travels and everyday use. The built quality is great and they offer unlimited warranty.
This bag has the absolute worst Velcro inserts every time I put my equipment back in I have to re set the inserts because they’ve all fallen apart. I don’t know how this passed QC. It’s actually ridiculous.
Will this really fit in an airline overhead? Regional as well as International?
Ridiculous price and tbh if the dividers are that bad and keep coming loose then it defeats the purpose of being a "camera" bag ...not for me