Thank you so much for talking about the airline compatibility! That's a huge factor for travel bags that never gets mentioned in reviews; super helpful.
Great review of a great looking rucksack. A friend has the larger one and has nothing negative to say about it apart from the price. Being a cheapskate, I went for the Mammut Trion pro with the back opening like the Atlas with an Amazon ICU. Adam Gibbs showed it on one of his gear reviews a couple of years ago. Then it cost £116 with £19 for an insert from Amazon - there are a whole load of different ICU sizes to suit the type of kit you have. Total cost £135 without the camera premium. When I bought mine, camera rucksacks didn't really have enough room for other kit but the Atlas does seem to offer that albeit at a premium.
Thanks Michael..all points well made. Its definitely expensive and if I wasn't walking reasonable distances and wanted that rucksack level of comfort I couldn't justify it really. I did actually leave out some footage I did showing my Osprey 70 Aether rucksack (and the big Lowepro 400aw I use for wildlife) which I have used with inserts when wild camping etc and for long treks that at c.£190 plus inserts is a tempting option but I think my wild camping days are pretty much behind me now ! But I justified it to myself (and the Mrs) by knowing I'll use it for other things which I never would with a more formal camera bag ...Thanks for taking the time to comment
Michael, I recently saw Adam's video and bought the Trion Pro 50L. I have not yet bought an ICU. Then, today, I found out about the Atlas backpacks. They look awesome. How has the Trion with an ICU worked out for you? Any issues and/or inconveniences? Which Amazon ICU did you buy and would you buy a different one knowing what you know now? Also, how does the weight of the pack feel on your back and hips once loaded with camera gear? Thanks very much. Regards, Andy
Hi Nigel, I hadn't seen any of your videos before this, but I must say that this was a superb review. I appreciate that you've taken the time to work with the bag and that your comments are based on experience. You have covered everything that I needed to know. Interestingly, my main concern, like yours, was the depth of the camera storage area. However, seeing your Nikon so well accommodated, helps greatly. I am using an EOS R with an L Bracket, so I feel fairly confident that this pack will fit it just fine. Thanks for your review.
Thanks for commenting Christopher..I saw little point in doing a video review until I'd done a few months of hard testing of the bag (amaming how many YT user reviews are done after a 20 minute walk around with a product !!)....still very happy with the bag. I know a few fellow photographers (pros like Simon Baxter, Adam Gibbs, Tom Heaton) are using Shimoda Explore or Action bags as they were given them by Shimoda but I've been on plenty of shoots and hikes in Scotland and elsewhere with Tom and Simon and neither would use a bag they didn't absolutely like so maybe worth considering the Shimoda as a comparison. Different set up with ICU units but look pretty good, also available through UK distributors (if you are in the UK) so no tax to pay unlike the Atlas which I had to import from the US. To be fair I think you'd be happy with both
@@nigelmorley8092 I follow Simon, and occasionally watch Tom and Adam as well. I did note that Tom seemed to be using an F-Stop pack in his last video so perhaps he has switched. Another UA-camr I quite like, and have watched for some time, is D.Griff, and I just realized that he too is using the Atlas Athlete. I don't imagine that you could go far wrong with any of these. That said, I feel that advice coming from someone who has chosen to purchase the bag seems a little more solid than that coming from someone who was given the bag. Cheers again.
Hi Christopher, when I was in Scotland with Tom I know he has both and he switched between the F Stop and the Shimoda and in fact he's got a couple of others,,,I think you'll be good with any of those 3 as I have friends who like each ..I think where the Atlas wins is that it's virtually a rucksack that takes camera gear rather than a camera bag first that's trying to be as comfortable as possible so if any longish hiking is on your agenda the Atlas may have an advantage...just my take but tbh all 3 a re good imho
Hi Nigel, thanks for the informative video. I got this bag two weeks ago, so I'm happy to see your positive six-month review. I'm very impressed with the thoughtful design and quality of the Athlete, clearly the folks at Atlas are listening to photographers and implementing their suggestions. This is an excellent bag! I'd like to add that the personal service I received from Allan and others at Atlas was very impressive and I've seen this mentioned in other reviews.
Thanks Marc...yes, I saw little point in doing a review until I'd had it a while and most importantly used it in the worst conditions I generally shoot in. I'm sure you'll be very happy with it and like you I found Allan's feedback tipped my decision to buy as it's not a cheap option in the UK (taxes etc) Thanks for commenting.
Finally a review from someone who uses a DSLR with an L-Bracket. I was wondering about this exact configuration, just with a Canon. Good to know how it would fit. Thanks for the review
I just got one, very pleased, I bought it based on your review. However, my uses is slightly different. I like travelling around on a .......... motorbike, well a twist and go scooter! Very comfortable and ss you say it doen't look like a camera bag. I love it. Thanks for your review! I work and reside in Thailand!
A very thorough and intelligent review Nigel. It wouldn't be the bag for me but at least I can make a very informed decision on the strength of this review. I think one of the points you raise which is pertinent to any bag / equipment is its quality and durability. I have an old lowepro mini trekker which I had secondhand as a temporary measure around 15 years ago. Still going strong even though it's usually packed to the limit and been given a bit of a dogs life. It's so good that even though I know I need a bigger bag I just can't bring myself to spend the money when this one just keeps going.
Thanks Robert. I have a Lowepro Mini Trekker myself ! One of my first small bags. Amazing capacity for such a small outline...a Tardis ,great value secondhand as well.
Hi Nigel, I also use a DSLR setup but wanted something bigger which potentially holds even a 600/f4. The Gregory Traghee 45L is a trekking-style bag with decent harness but also opens from the back. I placed a f-stop camera insert inside to give me additional padding and organisation. It works quite well and I will do a review of this soon. My only gripe is that the zippers on that bag are a bit flimsy and slightly difficult to opend/close. And it is too large for carry-on, so that I have to repack into a smaller suitcase for flying... However, it is lighter than any of the regular camera bags for long telephoto lenses and is longer/more narrow in shape to allow the hip belt to actually rest on the hips and not further up as with many of the other bags I tried.
Its the old problem of size/carry on allowance/weight etc...I have a Nikon 500mm f/4 which won't fit in this ..my Lowepro does though and I've been lucky and only once with that had an issue at the airport but airlines seem to be getting stricter...Zippers imho on the Atlas are excellent (so far)
Awesome Review, Nigel! This helped me incredibly, as I am in the market for this exact kind of bag ~ that has comfort/balance like a Deuter or Other Daypack, but the ease of access like an F-Stop. I am a photographer who treks the Himalayas of Northern India. We have porters and horses for our North Face Duffels' three weeks of gear. So in my daypack goes rainshell, rain pants, fleece, down, wicking shirts, food for the day, and my arsenal of camera and lenses. This Atlas Athlete looks to be "the ticket!" I appreciated your detail, your clarity, your gentle "spirit," and your honesty about all phases of this piece of gear and your process of getting it from the people of Atlas. Thank-you very much for helping me with this important decision! As I am about 5'8" (right on the cusp), I'll need to decide whether to go "up" or "down" on the frame size. My gut tells me to go slightly up if it means equal comfort, but a little better gear holding. All My Best to You, Nigel :)!! Scott S
Thanks for commenting Scott....like you I needed a decent safe camera bag but the rucksack element had to match the comfort of my Osprey rucksack which vast majority of camera backpacks don't. So far and in some horrid and fairly mountainous conditions (my scottish Glencoe and Torridon videos show the weather and terrain I was in), it has stood up to everything..there is a new Shomoda bag out that a lot of US photographers have just reviewed so may be worth a look as well...re the frame, maybe have a word with Atlas direct to get advice ..good luck with your trips
Man! Really good review! Actually the best I’ve seen for this backpack! You’ve clarified every single concern I had. Nobody says anything about the depth of the camera compartment and that was my biggest question. I was still struggling to decide between the Atlas and the Fstop because this is a bunch of money for a backpack but it’s clear for me now. Thank you!
Many thanks for your kind comments. I agree with you that (particularly here in the uk with extra taxes) it's a bit overpriced but I just about justified it on the basis I can't see a future reason for needing another bag and if it falls apart in 2 years in theory the lifetime guarantee bails me out but when I've had friends/students just getting into photography I always steer them towards eBay or similar
I've been researching camera backpacks and this is the best review I've watched so good job. Nice and clear without a whole heap of flim flam. It helps that you have not been sponsored by the manufacturer, which I suspect is not the case with most other reviews
Thanks Ian..I'm with you on the sponsorship but so long as the photographer is upfront about it they have to make a living so I'm ok with it. I think you can tell over a period of time which ones are giving genuine opinions
The recently released Shimoda Action X30 looks interesting. IMO the Atlas Athlete is a lot better bag than the Shimoda Explore but the new Action X line is a big improvement on the Explore. The removability of the ICU in the X30 is and attractive for me but on closer examination my Mamiya 7ii simply won't fit in the Shimoda Action X30 which surprised me. Strictly a mirror-less camera backpack. But it will fit in the Shimoda Action X50 which is more expensive than the Atlas Athlete and a bigger bag, and can't compress down like the Atlas Athlete...decisions decisions
@@iangordicans8763 Hi Ian...I've not tried the Shimoda newer X30/50 though did consider their previous model when I was considering the Atlas...I'm friends with Simon Baxter and Tom Heaton and saw the older Shimoda when I was in Scotland with them last year and still preferred the Atlas but Shimoda gave Simon the new Action bag and he liked it and still uses it on all his shoots I believe but he is a mirrorless user so as you say the 50 may be a way to go,,,The bigger Atlas was overkill for me as if i was ever wildcamping etc I use my Osprey 65 rucksack with ICU's...there'll never be a perfect backpack if you have slightly flexible uses (for me my wildlife kit is very different (and bigger) than my landscape stuff ...the only thing I would say about the Atlas is that I have abused it for 18 months or so now and it's never had a problem....maybe drop Simon Baxter a message about the new Shimoda as he is a very nice/helpful guy
thnx Nigel, I tried... I'm in Australia and there literally is no way for me to drop him a message. The Shimoda UK website provides no means of contacting them. The US website has a contact email address so I sent them a question (who haven't answered me yet) but there is no contact email address on the UK website or even an inquiry form
I had same issue with Altas just being a US operation but they were very helpful with tech questions I had before i bought etc. You can try Simon via his Instagram page if you are on IG or his website (though I know his site is down until tomorrow as he had a tech issue with it)..I actually just chatted with him on IG and I think he has an arrangement with Shimoda giving a 10% discount via a link but he is a very honest genuine guy so should be able to help..as I say though he is a Sony mirrorless user
Awesome Nigel, the best camera related gear review bar none, my passion is landscape photography and hiking/ camping thank you for your valuable insight I should get myself this pack 👍
Nigel, I so appreciate your review--especially after your months of use. Your review is very well-rounded, and mentioned some points I hadn't really considered. I've ordered the Athlete bag (that is actually awaiting me at home as I type this) after using the 80L F-Stop Shinn (a warranty replacement to my Sukha) for months now , and I am particularly excited to have a more flexible, multi-venue bag with such a comfortable harness. (That said, I truly love my Shinn; it just looks immense and doesn't really compress significantly when I'm carrying anything other than a full load.) I've seen that some consider F-Stop's Ajna to be a competitor to the Athlete, and to some degree it is, I'm sure, but I've heard from quite a few that it's much less comfortable when heavily loaded. (The Shimoda 40L that you mentioned, however, is indeed reputed to be very comfortable; the core units Shimoda produces, however, I do not like at all when compared to F-Stop's.) It's the overall design philosophy and flexibility of both water and tripod carry that drew me to the Athlete bag, though--after the harness and waist-belt, that is. (As an aside, I love that Allan from Atlaspacks actively discourages critical comparisons among backpacks, but to some extent, I believe such analyses are crucial when making such expensive, long-lasting purchase decisions.) Again, thank you for your thorough, well considered review of the Athlete!
Thanks for your detailed informed comments Todd. We all have slightly requirements and uses so there'll always be healthy competition but hopefully I made it clear in the video that at least for my requirements it works well. As you say, its a long term and expensive decision so we have to compare what's out there. Appreciate you watching.
Interesting video once again Nigel , I’ve been on the look out for a new bag for a while my Lowepro trekker 400 has seen better days and it’s a bit of a squeeze since I brought a 500mm f4 I’ll have to have a look at the 70 litre bag.your meadow is looking great by the way.
Great review. This bag was in parallel running with the shimoda and and the fstop. The import faff stopped me buying this, so bought the shimoda explorer 40 instead which is another awesome backpack. Hopefully atlas will setup uk/Europe distribution/sales in the future, also found there customer support first class. 👍
Thanks Christian..yup i looked at the tax issue and also had a good look at the Shimoda as well...small differences made me choose the Atlas and I took the view I'm only buying this once ! but both bags excellent I think..
Beautiful details review. I just ordered and waiting for Alan ship to New York. I want to buy the medium frame for my 5,7 tall, but this version sold out; the large frame might be more extensive for me. Thanks for the review.
Thank you so much. My problem is my height. So seeing this, and I'm the same height as you, that's great. And I also will be on the plane a bit, especially as my family is in another country. So, thank you so much!
For carry-on I pack everything into a suitcase which has the right dimensions. Weight of course is often an issue and I had to stuff my traouser and jacket pockets more than once to keep the weight of the bag down during check-in. The backpack holds my tripod, non-essentials and clothes for check-in. On arrival I basically swap the content of the two luggages. I tried the Lowepro bags and I find them too deep, i.e. the weight is too far off my the back/ centre of gravity and thus uncomfortable/heavy to carry. Also the padding of those bags is excessive, making the bags heavy even empty. Furthermore the harness of trekking-style bags is far better. In the Targhee 45L I fit a 5DM4, 600 f/4, 100-400 f/4.5-5.6, 16-35 f/4 and some smaller accessories. I gets heavy but I think I would be able to hike for a mile or two without a problem.
Hi Nigel, I've been hesitating over purchasing either the Altas or Adventurer as not sure about the correct size for my kit. Im thinking of going for the Adventurer but worried it maybe too big for a day bag around town. The main lens I'm worried I may not fit in is my 200-500 f5. 6 with the gimbal head tripod so think I'll contact Alan for advice. Thanks for your video found it really helpful. Tony
No problem Tony..yes I agree , contact them with your specifics and sure they can help. I'm sure the Adventurer would easily take your kit but for me it'd be too big for a day pack as it's deeper as well as longer etc...exact dimensions are on their site...I can't be certain but suspect the 200-500 would go in the Athlete but rather depends with what else ! Thanks for watching
Hi Nigel i have been looking at your videos love the work you do, when are you going to make some more, thank you for your help in making me a better photographer
Thanks Garry..not sure when/if etc as life has rather taken over in last few months and they are actually quite labour intensive (though fun) to do..hopefully now Spring getting closer
out standing video Nigel i need a new bag need to contact atlas as i use a 300 canon 2.8 and the sigma 150 600 sport but not have them both with me at the same time many thanks
Very informative review and thanks for all of the time put into the review. I had two questions that I was hoping you might be able to share details on... 1. Do you have any experience with removing the frame and storing it under the seat of a smaller plane? Specifically more regional jets.... I typically keep a Pelican 1510 above in the overhead and my backpack at my feet under the seat in front of me... 2. Do you feel comfortable keeping your laptop in the "sleeve" and traveling with it in that manner? I am curious as it seems a little lacking... Thanks again!
Hi Jason..sorry for late reply but didn't see your comment...re Q1, I have done that. Just came back from British Columbia where I used the pack as more a rucksack than camera bag..short internal flight to from Vancouver to Terrace and I put frame in my bigger hold suitcase and no issues with the Atlas going on quite a small twin prop overhead locker...if you don't have an extra hold suitcase I am not sure what you could do with the frame as airlines don't like sharp pointy things in the cabin !!.....re Q2, I never take laptop overseas just within UK but I have another padded sleeve for my macbook which then goes in pocket and that seems very safe/secure
@@nigelmorley8092 Thanks for the reply and I wanted to wait to reply until I wrapped up a 2 week trip with the bag. Fortunately I had no issue putting the bag under the seat in front of me (it did stick out but not enough to be an issue). I did end up getting a travel frame to swap out the standard large frame which really helped to shorten the bag. On the laptop, one thing that I hadn't taken into consideration was that the lid/top of the bag would cover up the area of the built in sleeve which provides a bit of extra padding. I still think this is one of the biggest shortcomings of the bag as it seems like the sleeve is an afterthought, but I just make sure to take some extra care when I am carrying the bag with a laptop inside.
Great review, Nigel! Thank you so much for all the input. I plan on doing the West Highland Way this summer (if all goes back to normal by then, that is) with my girlfriend, and I was wondering if after over a year of use, you still think the Adventure pack would be better suited for that trek. I don't own much camera gear though, I have a Fujifilm X-T3 with a couple of zooms and a prime lens, as well as a travel tripod. I've talked to Allan, who seems to think that the Athlete should be enough, but I'm worried that on such a big trip it would be a bit small. What would be your take on this? Thank you very much in advance!
Hi Robin....Thanks for watching. I'm assuming you aren't wild camping on the WHW cos obviously then the Athlete would be too small for tents/roll mats etc.. So i'm guessing you are stopping in hostels/hotels etc each night. On that basis it's a 4-7 (or more) day trek and that's quite hard core so having kit that is comfortable and bullet proof is paramount. So if photography is the criteria for your trip (and will be going forward on other trips) then the bigger Atlas pack would be a better option (than Athlete) both for size and of course designed with the photographer's needs in mind but these bags are expensive (£400 for us in the UK). Top be honest if it's the hiking that is your real motive for the trip and you'll be doing more hikes in future I'd do the following. Spend £180-200 on a top Osprey rucksack (in the video I think I show my Osprey Aether 65 which has been brilliant for 10 years and is quite light so even half full is very comfortable), I've carried 55lbs+ on wild camps on Dartmoor and Scotland with it. (nb a bigger rucksack like 48-65L isn't much heavier than a 35-45L one so go bigger than you think you'd need as nothing worse than trying to jam loads in or having to leave something behind and bigger ones often have the best straps/belts on) Then get some photography ICU's (internal camera units) which are simply zippable soft "boxes" of differing sizes to take your camera stuff (if you watch Tom Heaton's early wild camping videos you'll see how he uses them)...With a small travel tripod on outside of the Osprey you'll be sorted and very flexible set up. Also prob save you c.£150. The key on long hikes is comfort so get boots/waterproofs/clothing /rucksack right and let the photography fit in with that. Two tips, if you get an Osprey get the shop to fit it to you (Cotswold Outdoor did this for mine, they mould the waistbelt to fit your shape) and always get a waterproof cover for the rucksack if one not built in, and tip 2 for Scotland is give yourself more time than you think as 15 miles in the Highlands can be a lot longer than 15 miles on the South Downs (apologies if you are an experienced hiker co you'll know this !!) and you want to stop and enjoy the scenery/experience. Hope that helps and ask if you need more
Thanks Andrew...to be honest I use my 500mm for a lot of wildlife trips still and this won't fit in this bag so I use my bigger Lowepro. But what I often take is a body (usually a D810, and three Nikon lenses, the 300mm f4, 105mm macro and a wide angle usually the 24-70 f2.8 and these fit in. The velcroed inserts are totally customisable so there are numerous ways of fitting them in but from a capacity perspective hopefully that gives you an idea. All those lenses lie flat but the body sits upright. Also if I want to take as well another lens like my 16-35mm it can be wrapped up and goes in the top "lid" pocket where it's fairly safe from knocks etc.
Thank you Nigel, so there's something I'm getting right. I'll just concentrate on trying to focus my 400 5.6! Thank you again, your format and manner is absolutely right for me and I beleive many others!
Nigel. Thanks for the excellent review. I’m very close to going with the Atlas myself but have a question that you might be able to help me on. You showed that your D810 with an L bracket did just fit in the bag. I’m using the D500 with the battery pack and am wondering if it too will fit similarly to your D810? Cheers!
Hi, just measured it and the D810 with L bracket is about 14cms at its highest so if your D500 plus battery pack is that or below you'll be fine..you could prob squeeze to 15cms just..if higher than that I'd suggest contacting Atlas as they have lots of cameras/kit combinations on site and may be able to confirm
Airline compatibility is based on dimensions not capacity . Of course if you fill a 40L rucksack to its maximum it will quite likely be above those dimensions on the depth issue. Therefore you don't.
Thank you so much for talking about the airline compatibility! That's a huge factor for travel bags that never gets mentioned in reviews; super helpful.
Great review of a great looking rucksack. A friend has the larger one and has nothing negative to say about it apart from the price. Being a cheapskate, I went for the Mammut Trion pro with the back opening like the Atlas with an Amazon ICU. Adam Gibbs showed it on one of his gear reviews a couple of years ago. Then it cost £116 with £19 for an insert from Amazon - there are a whole load of different ICU sizes to suit the type of kit you have. Total cost £135 without the camera premium. When I bought mine, camera rucksacks didn't really have enough room for other kit but the Atlas does seem to offer that albeit at a premium.
Thanks Michael..all points well made. Its definitely expensive and if I wasn't walking reasonable distances and wanted that rucksack level of comfort I couldn't justify it really. I did actually leave out some footage I did showing my Osprey 70 Aether rucksack (and the big Lowepro 400aw I use for wildlife) which I have used with inserts when wild camping etc and for long treks that at c.£190 plus inserts is a tempting option but I think my wild camping days are pretty much behind me now ! But I justified it to myself (and the Mrs) by knowing I'll use it for other things which I never would with a more formal camera bag ...Thanks for taking the time to comment
Michael, I recently saw Adam's video and bought the Trion Pro 50L. I have not yet bought an ICU. Then, today, I found out about the Atlas backpacks. They look awesome. How has the Trion with an ICU worked out for you? Any issues and/or inconveniences? Which Amazon ICU did you buy and would you buy a different one knowing what you know now? Also, how does the weight of the pack feel on your back and hips once loaded with camera gear?
Thanks very much.
Regards,
Andy
Hi Nigel, I hadn't seen any of your videos before this, but I must say that this was a superb review. I appreciate that you've taken the time to work with the bag and that your comments are based on experience. You have covered everything that I needed to know. Interestingly, my main concern, like yours, was the depth of the camera storage area. However, seeing your Nikon so well accommodated, helps greatly. I am using an EOS R with an L Bracket, so I feel fairly confident that this pack will fit it just fine. Thanks for your review.
Thanks for commenting Christopher..I saw little point in doing a video review until I'd done a few months of hard testing of the bag (amaming how many YT user reviews are done after a 20 minute walk around with a product !!)....still very happy with the bag. I know a few fellow photographers (pros like Simon Baxter, Adam Gibbs, Tom Heaton) are using Shimoda Explore or Action bags as they were given them by Shimoda but I've been on plenty of shoots and hikes in Scotland and elsewhere with Tom and Simon and neither would use a bag they didn't absolutely like so maybe worth considering the Shimoda as a comparison. Different set up with ICU units but look pretty good, also available through UK distributors (if you are in the UK) so no tax to pay unlike the Atlas which I had to import from the US. To be fair I think you'd be happy with both
@@nigelmorley8092 I follow Simon, and occasionally watch Tom and Adam as well. I did note that Tom seemed to be using an F-Stop pack in his last video so perhaps he has switched. Another UA-camr I quite like, and have watched for some time, is D.Griff, and I just realized that he too is using the Atlas Athlete. I don't imagine that you could go far wrong with any of these. That said, I feel that advice coming from someone who has chosen to purchase the bag seems a little more solid than that coming from someone who was given the bag. Cheers again.
Hi Christopher, when I was in Scotland with Tom I know he has both and he switched between the F Stop and the Shimoda and in fact he's got a couple of others,,,I think you'll be good with any of those 3 as I have friends who like each ..I think where the Atlas wins is that it's virtually a rucksack that takes camera gear rather than a camera bag first that's trying to be as comfortable as possible so if any longish hiking is on your agenda the Atlas may have an advantage...just my take but tbh all 3 a re good imho
@@nigelmorley8092 Thank you. I appreciate the responses and all the information.
Upfront and honest, what more does one need from a review, fair play Nigel.
Thanks for watching and commenting Rob...
Hi Nigel, thanks for the informative video. I got this bag two weeks ago, so I'm happy to see your positive six-month review. I'm very impressed with the thoughtful design and quality of the Athlete, clearly the folks at Atlas are listening to photographers and implementing their suggestions. This is an excellent bag!
I'd like to add that the personal service I received from Allan and others at Atlas was very impressive and I've seen this mentioned in other reviews.
Thanks Marc...yes, I saw little point in doing a review until I'd had it a while and most importantly used it in the worst conditions I generally shoot in. I'm sure you'll be very happy with it and like you I found Allan's feedback tipped my decision to buy as it's not a cheap option in the UK (taxes etc) Thanks for commenting.
Finally a review from someone who uses a DSLR with an L-Bracket. I was wondering about this exact configuration, just with a Canon. Good to know how it would fit. Thanks for the review
Thanks Michael. Yes L Bracket certainly helps but I guess not an essential item but certainly simplifies things!
I already got a L-Bracket on my canon and I was wondering if it would fit the backpack, that's what I meant with configuration ;-) Now I know it does
Ah..got it
Very detailed review. Thank you for your efforts.
I just got one, very pleased, I bought it based on your review. However, my uses is slightly different. I like travelling around on a .......... motorbike, well a twist and go scooter! Very comfortable and ss you say it doen't look like a camera bag. I love it. Thanks for your review! I work and reside in Thailand!
Thanks David, hope it works out well for you. Mine still going strong with no issues
A very thorough and intelligent review Nigel. It wouldn't be the bag for me but at least I can make a very informed decision on the strength of this review.
I think one of the points you raise which is pertinent to any bag / equipment is its quality and durability. I have an old lowepro mini trekker which I had secondhand as a temporary measure around 15 years ago. Still going strong even though it's usually packed to the limit and been given a bit of a dogs life. It's so good that even though I know I need a bigger bag I just can't bring myself to spend the money when this one just keeps going.
Thanks Robert. I have a Lowepro Mini Trekker myself ! One of my first small bags. Amazing capacity for such a small outline...a Tardis ,great value secondhand as well.
Hi Nigel, I also use a DSLR setup but wanted something bigger which potentially holds even a 600/f4. The Gregory Traghee 45L is a trekking-style bag with decent harness but also opens from the back. I placed a f-stop camera insert inside to give me additional padding and organisation. It works quite well and I will do a review of this soon. My only gripe is that the zippers on that bag are a bit flimsy and slightly difficult to opend/close. And it is too large for carry-on, so that I have to repack into a smaller suitcase for flying... However, it is lighter than any of the regular camera bags for long telephoto lenses and is longer/more narrow in shape to allow the hip belt to actually rest on the hips and not further up as with many of the other bags I tried.
Its the old problem of size/carry on allowance/weight etc...I have a Nikon 500mm f/4 which won't fit in this ..my Lowepro does though and I've been lucky and only once with that had an issue at the airport but airlines seem to be getting stricter...Zippers imho on the Atlas are excellent (so far)
Awesome Review, Nigel! This helped me incredibly, as I am in the market for this exact kind of bag ~ that has comfort/balance like a Deuter or Other Daypack, but the ease of access like an F-Stop. I am a photographer who treks the Himalayas of Northern India. We have porters and horses for our North Face Duffels' three weeks of gear. So in my daypack goes rainshell, rain pants, fleece, down, wicking shirts, food for the day, and my arsenal of camera and lenses. This Atlas Athlete looks to be "the ticket!" I appreciated your detail, your clarity, your gentle "spirit," and your honesty about all phases of this piece of gear and your process of getting it from the people of Atlas. Thank-you very much for helping me with this important decision! As I am about 5'8" (right on the cusp), I'll need to decide whether to go "up" or "down" on the frame size. My gut tells me to go slightly up if it means equal comfort, but a little better gear holding. All My Best to You, Nigel :)!! Scott S
Thanks for commenting Scott....like you I needed a decent safe camera bag but the rucksack element had to match the comfort of my Osprey rucksack which vast majority of camera backpacks don't. So far and in some horrid and fairly mountainous conditions (my scottish Glencoe and Torridon videos show the weather and terrain I was in), it has stood up to everything..there is a new Shomoda bag out that a lot of US photographers have just reviewed so may be worth a look as well...re the frame, maybe have a word with Atlas direct to get advice ..good luck with your trips
Man! Really good review! Actually the best I’ve seen for this backpack! You’ve clarified every single concern I had. Nobody says anything about the depth of the camera compartment and that was my biggest question. I was still struggling to decide between the Atlas and the Fstop because this is a bunch of money for a backpack but it’s clear for me now. Thank you!
Glad it helped ..thanks for watching
Fantastic review Nigel, thanks. Just clicked buy on my Athlete today.
Thanks Martin, glad it was helpful...fyi a year on from my review I've had no issues at all with my Athlete
I'll say that also the Fstop Ajna (40l) is competition to this Athlas. Good vid Nigel, the background is looking great! :)
Gracias
Hi Nigel, another fantastic video. Wish there were more of yours to watch. $500 US for this pack is too rich for my blood, but looks nice nonetheless.
Many thanks for your kind comments. I agree with you that (particularly here in the uk with extra taxes) it's a bit overpriced but I just about justified it on the basis I can't see a future reason for needing another bag and if it falls apart in 2 years in theory the lifetime guarantee bails me out but when I've had friends/students just getting into photography I always steer them towards eBay or similar
I've been researching camera backpacks and this is the best review I've watched so good job. Nice and clear without a whole heap of flim flam. It helps that you have not been sponsored by the manufacturer, which I suspect is not the case with most other reviews
Thanks Ian..I'm with you on the sponsorship but so long as the photographer is upfront about it they have to make a living so I'm ok with it. I think you can tell over a period of time which ones are giving genuine opinions
The recently released Shimoda Action X30 looks interesting. IMO the Atlas Athlete is a lot better bag than the Shimoda Explore but the new Action X line is a big improvement on the Explore. The removability of the ICU in the X30 is and attractive for me but on closer examination my Mamiya 7ii simply won't fit in the Shimoda Action X30 which surprised me. Strictly a mirror-less camera backpack. But it will fit in the Shimoda Action X50 which is more expensive than the Atlas Athlete and a bigger bag, and can't compress down like the Atlas Athlete...decisions decisions
@@iangordicans8763 Hi Ian...I've not tried the Shimoda newer X30/50 though did consider their previous model when I was considering the Atlas...I'm friends with Simon Baxter and Tom Heaton and saw the older Shimoda when I was in Scotland with them last year and still preferred the Atlas but Shimoda gave Simon the new Action bag and he liked it and still uses it on all his shoots I believe but he is a mirrorless user so as you say the 50 may be a way to go,,,The bigger Atlas was overkill for me as if i was ever wildcamping etc I use my Osprey 65 rucksack with ICU's...there'll never be a perfect backpack if you have slightly flexible uses (for me my wildlife kit is very different (and bigger) than my landscape stuff ...the only thing I would say about the Atlas is that I have abused it for 18 months or so now and it's never had a problem....maybe drop Simon Baxter a message about the new Shimoda as he is a very nice/helpful guy
thnx Nigel, I tried... I'm in Australia and there literally is no way for me to drop him a message. The Shimoda UK website provides no means of contacting them. The US website has a contact email address so I sent them a question (who haven't answered me yet) but there is no contact email address on the UK website or even an inquiry form
I had same issue with Altas just being a US operation but they were very helpful with tech questions I had before i bought etc. You can try Simon via his Instagram page if you are on IG or his website (though I know his site is down until tomorrow as he had a tech issue with it)..I actually just chatted with him on IG and I think he has an arrangement with Shimoda giving a 10% discount via a link but he is a very honest genuine guy so should be able to help..as I say though he is a Sony mirrorless user
Awesome Nigel, the best camera related gear review bar none, my passion is landscape photography and hiking/ camping thank you for your valuable insight I should get myself this pack 👍
Many thanks Ross...glad it was helpful
Excellent review. Thank you Nigel.
Thanks Bill
Thanks for the review, helpful and well done! Athlete on the way...
Nigel, I so appreciate your review--especially after your months of use. Your review is very well-rounded, and mentioned some points I hadn't really considered. I've ordered the Athlete bag (that is actually awaiting me at home as I type this) after using the 80L F-Stop Shinn (a warranty replacement to my Sukha) for months now , and I am particularly excited to have a more flexible, multi-venue bag with such a comfortable harness. (That said, I truly love my Shinn; it just looks immense and doesn't really compress significantly when I'm carrying anything other than a full load.) I've seen that some consider F-Stop's Ajna to be a competitor to the Athlete, and to some degree it is, I'm sure, but I've heard from quite a few that it's much less comfortable when heavily loaded. (The Shimoda 40L that you mentioned, however, is indeed reputed to be very comfortable; the core units Shimoda produces, however, I do not like at all when compared to F-Stop's.) It's the overall design philosophy and flexibility of both water and tripod carry that drew me to the Athlete bag, though--after the harness and waist-belt, that is. (As an aside, I love that Allan from Atlaspacks actively discourages critical comparisons among backpacks, but to some extent, I believe such analyses are crucial when making such expensive, long-lasting purchase decisions.)
Again, thank you for your thorough, well considered review of the Athlete!
Thanks for your detailed informed comments Todd. We all have slightly requirements and uses so there'll always be healthy competition but hopefully I made it clear in the video that at least for my requirements it works well. As you say, its a long term and expensive decision so we have to compare what's out there. Appreciate you watching.
I’ve had mine for about 3 months now and I can’t fault the bag. I agree with you regarding the import duties and tax which wasn’t a welcome addition.
Interesting video once again Nigel , I’ve been on the look out for a new bag for a while my Lowepro trekker 400 has seen better days and it’s a bit of a squeeze since I brought a 500mm f4 I’ll have to have a look at the 70 litre bag.your meadow is looking great by the way.
Really fantastic review, thank you!
Glad it was useful Chris.
Great review. This bag was in parallel running with the shimoda and and the fstop. The import faff stopped me buying this, so bought the shimoda explorer 40 instead which is another awesome backpack. Hopefully atlas will setup uk/Europe distribution/sales in the future, also found there customer support first class. 👍
Thanks Christian..yup i looked at the tax issue and also had a good look at the Shimoda as well...small differences made me choose the Atlas and I took the view I'm only buying this once ! but both bags excellent I think..
@@nigelmorley8092 in an ideal world it would be nice to have both in cupboard to choose from 🙂😉
Beautiful details review. I just ordered and waiting for Alan ship to New York. I want to buy the medium frame for my 5,7 tall, but this version sold out; the large frame might be more extensive for me. Thanks for the review.
Thanks. I'm sure you'll enjoy the bag
Great review. It matches my experience with the Adventure. I have long lenses, tripod and heads etc. and needed the larger bag.
Thanks Derek. Yes I was in two minds but it is working out well so far
just bought it cant wait to received it
Hope it works well for you
great job well done, i am getting a pack soon, this is on my radar
Cheers Cameron...it is a great pack but it's not cheap so if it fits your needs then a great choice and will last for years so well worth considering.
Nice review. great backpack!
Great review, much appreciated mate
Glad it was useful. Thanks
Thank you so much. My problem is my height. So seeing this, and I'm the same height as you, that's great. And I also will be on the plane a bit, especially as my family is in another country. So, thank you so much!
Thanks for watching and commenting Martin...I'm happy it was useful...us taller guys need to look out for each other !!
For carry-on I pack everything into a suitcase which has the right dimensions. Weight of course is often an issue and I had to stuff my traouser and jacket pockets more than once to keep the weight of the bag down during check-in. The backpack holds my tripod, non-essentials and clothes for check-in. On arrival I basically swap the content of the two luggages. I tried the Lowepro bags and I find them too deep, i.e. the weight is too far off my the back/ centre of gravity and thus uncomfortable/heavy to carry. Also the padding of those bags is excessive, making the bags heavy even empty. Furthermore the harness of trekking-style bags is far better. In the Targhee 45L I fit a 5DM4, 600 f/4, 100-400 f/4.5-5.6, 16-35 f/4 and some smaller accessories. I gets heavy but I think I would be able to hike for a mile or two without a problem.
Hi Nigel,
I've been hesitating over purchasing either the Altas or Adventurer as not sure about the correct size for my kit. Im thinking of going for the Adventurer but worried it maybe too big for a day bag around town.
The main lens I'm worried I may not fit in is my 200-500 f5. 6 with the gimbal head tripod so think I'll contact Alan for advice. Thanks for your video found it really helpful.
Tony
No problem Tony..yes I agree , contact them with your specifics and sure they can help. I'm sure the Adventurer would easily take your kit but for me it'd be too big for a day pack as it's deeper as well as longer etc...exact dimensions are on their site...I can't be certain but suspect the 200-500 would go in the Athlete but rather depends with what else ! Thanks for watching
Hi Nigel i have been looking at your videos love the work you do, when are you going to make some more, thank you for your help in making me a better photographer
Thanks Garry..not sure when/if etc as life has rather taken over in last few months and they are actually quite labour intensive (though fun) to do..hopefully now Spring getting closer
out standing video Nigel i need a new bag need to contact atlas as i use a 300 canon 2.8 and the sigma 150 600 sport but not have them both with me at the same time many thanks
Very informative review and thanks for all of the time put into the review. I had two questions that I was hoping you might be able to share details on...
1. Do you have any experience with removing the frame and storing it under the seat of a smaller plane? Specifically more regional jets.... I typically keep a Pelican 1510 above in the overhead and my backpack at my feet under the seat in front of me...
2. Do you feel comfortable keeping your laptop in the "sleeve" and traveling with it in that manner? I am curious as it seems a little lacking...
Thanks again!
Hi Jason..sorry for late reply but didn't see your comment...re Q1, I have done that. Just came back from British Columbia where I used the pack as more a rucksack than camera bag..short internal flight to from Vancouver to Terrace and I put frame in my bigger hold suitcase and no issues with the Atlas going on quite a small twin prop overhead locker...if you don't have an extra hold suitcase I am not sure what you could do with the frame as airlines don't like sharp pointy things in the cabin !!.....re Q2, I never take laptop overseas just within UK but I have another padded sleeve for my macbook which then goes in pocket and that seems very safe/secure
@@nigelmorley8092 Thanks for the reply and I wanted to wait to reply until I wrapped up a 2 week trip with the bag. Fortunately I had no issue putting the bag under the seat in front of me (it did stick out but not enough to be an issue). I did end up getting a travel frame to swap out the standard large frame which really helped to shorten the bag.
On the laptop, one thing that I hadn't taken into consideration was that the lid/top of the bag would cover up the area of the built in sleeve which provides a bit of extra padding. I still think this is one of the biggest shortcomings of the bag as it seems like the sleeve is an afterthought, but I just make sure to take some extra care when I am carrying the bag with a laptop inside.
Great review, Nigel! Thank you so much for all the input. I plan on doing the West Highland Way this summer (if all goes back to normal by then, that is) with my girlfriend, and I was wondering if after over a year of use, you still think the Adventure pack would be better suited for that trek. I don't own much camera gear though, I have a Fujifilm X-T3 with a couple of zooms and a prime lens, as well as a travel tripod. I've talked to Allan, who seems to think that the Athlete should be enough, but I'm worried that on such a big trip it would be a bit small. What would be your take on this? Thank you very much in advance!
Hi Robin....Thanks for watching. I'm assuming you aren't wild camping on the WHW cos obviously then the Athlete would be too small for tents/roll mats etc.. So i'm guessing you are stopping in hostels/hotels etc each night. On that basis it's a 4-7 (or more) day trek and that's quite hard core so having kit that is comfortable and bullet proof is paramount. So if photography is the criteria for your trip (and will be going forward on other trips) then the bigger Atlas pack would be a better option (than Athlete) both for size and of course designed with the photographer's needs in mind but these bags are expensive (£400 for us in the UK). Top be honest if it's the hiking that is your real motive for the trip and you'll be doing more hikes in future I'd do the following. Spend £180-200 on a top Osprey rucksack (in the video I think I show my Osprey Aether 65 which has been brilliant for 10 years and is quite light so even half full is very comfortable), I've carried 55lbs+ on wild camps on Dartmoor and Scotland with it. (nb a bigger rucksack like 48-65L isn't much heavier than a 35-45L one so go bigger than you think you'd need as nothing worse than trying to jam loads in or having to leave something behind and bigger ones often have the best straps/belts on) Then get some photography ICU's (internal camera units) which are simply zippable soft "boxes" of differing sizes to take your camera stuff (if you watch Tom Heaton's early wild camping videos you'll see how he uses them)...With a small travel tripod on outside of the Osprey you'll be sorted and very flexible set up. Also prob save you c.£150. The key on long hikes is comfort so get boots/waterproofs/clothing /rucksack right and let the photography fit in with that. Two tips, if you get an Osprey get the shop to fit it to you (Cotswold Outdoor did this for mine, they mould the waistbelt to fit your shape) and always get a waterproof cover for the rucksack if one not built in, and tip 2 for Scotland is give yourself more time than you think as 15 miles in the Highlands can be a lot longer than 15 miles on the South Downs (apologies if you are an experienced hiker co you'll know this !!) and you want to stop and enjoy the scenery/experience. Hope that helps and ask if you need more
Very interesting and solid appraisal, thank you for sharing.
Would be interested to know what your Wildlife kit looks like in it?
Thanks Andrew...to be honest I use my 500mm for a lot of wildlife trips still and this won't fit in this bag so I use my bigger Lowepro. But what I often take is a body (usually a D810, and three Nikon lenses, the 300mm f4, 105mm macro and a wide angle usually the 24-70 f2.8 and these fit in. The velcroed inserts are totally customisable so there are numerous ways of fitting them in but from a capacity perspective hopefully that gives you an idea. All those lenses lie flat but the body sits upright. Also if I want to take as well another lens like my 16-35mm it can be wrapped up and goes in the top "lid" pocket where it's fairly safe from knocks etc.
Thank you Nigel, so there's something I'm getting right. I'll just concentrate on trying to focus my 400 5.6! Thank you again, your format and manner is absolutely right for me and I beleive many others!
Great review, thanks etc.
Nigel. Thanks for the excellent review. I’m very close to going with the Atlas myself but have a question that you might be able to help me on. You showed that your D810 with an L bracket did just fit in the bag. I’m using the D500 with the battery pack and am wondering if it too will fit similarly to your D810? Cheers!
Hi, just measured it and the D810 with L bracket is about 14cms at its highest so if your D500 plus battery pack is that or below you'll be fine..you could prob squeeze to 15cms just..if higher than that I'd suggest contacting Atlas as they have lots of cameras/kit combinations on site and may be able to confirm
Nigel Morley thank you. The measurements will be helpful.
Great video, did you have to pay any taxes buying it abroad?
Hi, yes I did, If you go to 19:20 in the video I give the cost breakdown
Do you plan to come back to UA-cam?
I don't know any 40l rucksack or backpack that is airline compatible.most Europe airlines support up to 30l
Airline compatibility is based on dimensions not capacity . Of course if you fill a 40L rucksack to its maximum it will quite likely be above those dimensions on the depth issue. Therefore you don't.