I use Incase DSLR Pro Pack Camera Backpack which is their older version. I have Shimoda 40, few Ona, Tenba, Vanguard but nothing comes close to he conveniently designed Incase. Wish the build quality is as good as Shimoda or Mindshift backpacks. But it is 2-years old and is going great. Frankly, I hate Shimoda as taking in and out camera is such a pain. Maybe Incase spoiled me.
Currently I use a Mindshift 26L. There are a few features, like the pockets on the shoulder straps that I wish the Mindshift had, but am pretty happy with my Mindshift.
The best and most informative content about Shimoda's products. Got the X30 for a while now and plan to upgrade to the X50 together with the top loader. Did not know about the belt pouche yet. Nice and very useful addition.
Thank you for the review. Just found your channel and subscribed. I love how you can pull out the little bag on each side of the bag for either tripod or water bottle carrying, really slick!
Mark, Maybe you could help me? The main annoyance of the bag i'm currently using (a F-stop guru) is that stuff in the top section of the bag (above the ICU) slips down into the bottom section with the potential for falling out altogether. Would you say that the same problem would occur with the Shimoda X30 - which also has a separate inner? Does it fit the outer more closely? Otherwise it looks like the perfect bag for me now I'm using m4/3 kit. .
Okay, Mark... just pledged for the Shimoda Action X30 and Front Loader via your link. I do enjoy your channel and am glad to pass along my support... meager though it may be. :) I'm really looking forward to it. I hiked 4 miles yesterday with my son's school backpack and would have given someone $500 for the Shimoda about 1/2 way through that hike. lol
I like that bag. I just purchased 2 new lenses, and my current camera bag wont fit them. I may have to keep my eye out for this one. Thanks for the review! It's good to see the functionality from a straight shooter like yourself. See you next week my friend!
Thank you for such an informative review of the Schimoda 50 which I have watched twice now. Currently using F-Stop Anja but now getting close to moving to Schimoda 50
Hi Mark..I'm really happy with my Atlas Athlete (I did a 6 month YT review vlog of it) and I have abused it totally and its holding up well so far. Works well for my landscape trips where I want less camera kit/more hiking gear and to be honest I think it seems to me Atlas may have shaken up the other makers a bit which can only be good and I think design features are way more user friendly than bags just a few years ago. Great review btw and be interesting the price of these which is the only downside because at least here in the UK you're looking at £350-400 for these (Atlas/Shimoda) bags which is a lot and I only justified it by saying it'll need to last 10 years ++
Nothing can be better, than Tamrac 5589 Expedition 9x Backpack. I use it many years and will use it forever-forever-forever. I changed cameras, lens, gears etc, but my backpack still the best! ;) ;) ;) I used it at all continents, except Antarctica., including 10-14 days fully autonomous expeditions. Ps.: Thx for good video and good Chanel.
Such a great review!! -your pro cinematography makes the experience soo clean and clear! I love the Shimoda and im thinking about buying it i just really want at least a few lash points so im torn between this and the new LowePro tactical- but i really wish this just had a few more lash points for impromptu added carry on the back
I like the thought process in the design of this bag. The adjustable shoulder height strap is a very good aid indeed. The camera core design too is quite good. The other good alternative is the Atlas Athlete bag
Why do we feel the need to carry this much camera equipment? Lighten up on the load and equipment and enjoy your photography so much more! If I am going for a 4 day hike, 40 L is way more than enough. 50L is huge for just camera equipment. 70L is crazy!!! :). Keep up the great work Mark! Love your videos.
Depends on what you are carry in the field - taking a 8x10 or a Red EPIC into the field and the 70L makes sense - different sizes for different objectives.
Hi Mark. Very much enjoy your videos. Can I make a suggestion? I am sure I am not your only female subscriber. When you do reviews like this can you also talk about the bags viability for women? Although Shimoda has taken more steps than bag manufacturers to address woman specific fit, we still have to pay extra to buy woman specific straps. It is an option as I feel it should be. It is an over $50 additional cost to the bag which is already quite pricey. Adding this additional information will give a fuller review of the product. Doesn't make a difference for most products but for camera bags it definitely does. Again, really enjoy your videos.
Pam Lambros Thanks so much for this Pam and great suggestion! Good news Is that for the new Action X collection the women specific straps do not cost anything additional this time👍
Hi Mark, thanks for the great video! How comfortable are the shoulder straps of this bag? They seem somewhat thin and without a whole lot of padding. How do you find it after a day walking around with a bag full of heavy gear?
Looks like a great pack. My only concern is the distance of the water bladder compartment to the shoulder strap where a hose would hang for easy access. Looks like you might need a hose extension to make it long enough. That's kind of nitpicking and no big deal however.
Hi. I know this is an older video. But I’m looking for a new bag and the x50 v2 looks good. But for owners of the v1. Has there been any issues with air travel and carry on? Especially for international flights?
With this one it really looks like Shimoda finally made it! This looks like the perfect camera bag! It has everything - waterbottle pockets on both sides for those haters that always miss them, rollout top, side access that actually works with all camera cubes! I am truly fascinated! Shame I didn't wait until they make it right and bought Lowepro Whistler :/
I’m looking at one of these and watched the film with great interest, so thank you, I have one question and one remark. Question: when the roll top lid is full to the top, does it still keep water out? Remark: I have concerns that those mesh pockets won’t stand the test of time holding the weight of a tripod. The ones on my Lowepro bag have torn wil only the continued use of a water bottle. As it’s some time since you made this video, you may have the answers? Many thanks
Yes I’ve found that you can have the roll top fully extended as long as you have it rolled down at least a single turn then it’ll keep water out - at least in my experience. Regarding the mesh pockets - they’re actually sturdier than they look - not issues at all here.
Hi Mark I also saw your older video comparing the f stop with Shimoda and Atlas athlete. You recommended the Atlas then. Do you now recommend the Shimoda over the atlas athlete?
I was learning a lot about landscape photography from you until just recently when you seem to have started hawking products. Do you plan to go back to instructional videos anytime soon or is this the new norm?
Hey Mark, quick question, I have the old medium DSLR camera core that I bought for my Explore 40. Will I be able to migrate that to the X50? I understand I won't have side access but that doesn't bother me as I always grab my camera from the rear. I'm more worried about fit/compatibility
Hi Mark...watch you u-tube allot! Nice to see your growth, and change over time. I went to Costa Rica last year and realized I needed a better backpack for my camera gear. decided to follopw your recommendation yet they didn't accept the "Shimoda10" discount code. Just FYI keep loading new educational videos as we all greatly appreciate it. R. Pearson
Thanks for this review. It has really helped in my decision making process. Just trying to decide between the x30 and x50. Would it be possible to put both a small and medium icu in the x30?
I'm not totally sold on it. First, I'd prefer the middle between 30 and 50 liters with a 40 liter bag, and second I'd like to have the side access to the gear on the other side, so that I can grab my camera with my right hand right away. But besides that, it seems like a very solid bag. Can you detach the waist strap of it? 🤔
Thank you for the review. I have one question for you since I am considering the f-stop Tilipa 50L against this bag (or maybeeven the Shimoda Explore 60). The question is, if you know if it it possible toattach e.g. a tent externally at the bottom of the bag and e.g. at sleeping bag
The roll tops are what bikers have used for a good twenty years or more, cowboys before that! I can vouch for their design if we’ll made made from a suitable canvas style material, which this one appears to be, having ridden several days on the bounce on numerous occasions in some extreme weather, never any leakage into the bag.
How do you like the back panel laptop sleeve compared to that in the Atlas Athlete? I’m looking for an everyday backpack that can carry my mirrorless kit, X1 carbon, and 60% keyboard.
Mark Denney, thanks for the reply. I know this isn’t the use case that you addressed in your video, but until my local store stocks the X30, video experiences are all I have to go by. In the wilderness, a laptop might not be even brought along because of the Gnarbox so it might be a moot point.
I like very much how this bag feels, and I kind of like side access. But laptop compartment seems more secure to me in the Atllas Athlete than in the X series, where it is in the back cover, it seems. Other places where it can be put ?
could you recommend another brand that looks so great as shimoda? I'd love to buy either X50 or V2 35, but unfortunately I can't fit my 15" notebook inside any of them.
Have you looked at the Peter McKinnon/Nomatic backpack? I’m between it and the Shimoda Action X30. Mostly for urban environments ... just need to be able to carry a lot of stuff with me comfortably all day and often. Just wanted to see if you had any thoughts!
Do you think it will be better for organising and storing your non-camera items like clothes etc if the front top zip and the front flap zip (the one with ability to put water bladder) can be open suitcase style instead of just a horizontal opening?
Nice review! Does the pack come with a core case or do you have to buy that separately? Based on the starter packs sold it seems as if you buy the pack and core case separately but hard to be certain. I have a Fuji kit as well, do you find that this pack is overkill given the camera size? Thanks!
Nate Mietkiewicz Thanks Nate! I recently switched to the Shimoda Action X30 for my Fuji setup - perfect fit! Yes, you’ll need to either purchase a starter kit or purchase the core seperateley.
Ive been using a Lowepro Whistler and a Fstop Shinn, went to see the material of the Shimoda as I needed a 50L backpack, It looked like I was comparing an Audi (Lowepro and Fstop) to a FIAT (Shimoda). The material looks very cheap.
Mark, would you say this is a great bag for a multi-day ( 3 - 5 days) thru-hike where you would carry camera gear, tent (maybe on outside with gait keepers), food, etc. and all other essentials?
Any reason you can see for using the mirrorless medium core unit in an x50, or does it only make sense for the X30? Seems you would just end up with unused space around the unit or a less snug fit for the unit. I would guess the medium DSLR core units leave more space for your mirrorless gear to bounce around in compared to the Atlas pack.
Hi Mark, thanks for this review. Still deciding between this and the Atlas Athlete. Which one would be best also for non-camera gear? I only have a fuji X-T3 + 2 lenses (maybe 3 max) so very little camera gear; but I'm looking for a bag that I could use for a 2 weeks trip abroad, hence clothes, towels, etc. Also, It needs to be carried in flight cabins. So which one would you recommend? X30 vs X50 vs Atlas Athlete? Thanks! Wayan
I like the way the bag looks, but I’m just afraid to drop more money on another bag. I bought the LowePro 450 tactical bag and it holds all my gear, but that’s it. I went day hiking a couple of weeks ago and my wife had to carry a backpack too just for snacks and supplies for our 2 dogs. I’m very tempted, what will push me over the edge and make me get this bag and fall in love with it?
This is a great looking bag! I want one even though most of my work is much more urban or corporate! Thanks for the excellent review! (oh and FYI, I do bag reviews on my channel too!)
Can you still use the Explore ICU's? I also don't access the side panel so that is not an issue. I have the Explore 40 but would really like the roll top and added side pockets. Also, have you seen the 30? Would it be closer to the 40 in terms of volume but with smaller footprint because of the rolltop? Thanks.
Bruno Mooser I haven’t noticed that it’s really any better or worse than some of my other bags, but I sweat a ton on warm hikes so it’s a bit hard for me to tell.
Hi Mark. I can see Thea Timon x30 has only 3 fitting sizes, small, medium and large. I am 6 foot with broad shoulders, and would like to know if I should go toward the x50 instead. I still feel that the x50 is a little large for me. I use a D500 with sigma 17-50, and a sigma 18-300 as main lenses....what suggestions for bag size.? Thanks
I'd suggest going for the X50. What's great about this size is that if you don't need the extra capacity you can condense the overall size of the bag quite dramatically.
I have watched a bunch of reviews of this bag and it looks great, but it seems like there would be no way to fit a big tele in there, like a 400/2.8 or the Sony 200-600mm. Is that true, or can you get a big enough core unit to do that?
Thanks for the review and all your videos! I am torn between x30 and x50. Is the x50 carry on friendly? As a father of two, I usually have to carry non-photo-related stuff, so extra capacity would be nice, but not if it means I cannot take the bag on a plane...
How do you think this would fare as a daily bag? Did this replace your Atlas Athlete as your daily carry bag? I'm still bouncing back and forth from the x30 and x50.
The hunt for the perfect bag will never end! I went for Vanguard alternatives. For hiking around my home in Utah or any hike during a road trip where I can take my car, I use the Vanguard Sedona 43 Sling bag. I got it on an insane discount from B&H. Last month I ordered the Vanguard Veo Select 49 Backpack but it's still backordered. Whenver I travel in air, I feel nervous about paying extra if the bag looks bigger than usual. Lowepro, Peak Design, Shimoda...... I looked everywhere and whatever I liked was $250+. So I argued with myself a lot and finally decided to go with two bags instead of one large bag. Nowadays, beautiful bags like this Shimoda bag are coming out with many functionalities ....but as a hobbyist, my 'cost-to-satisfaction ratio' stops me to spend a lot :P
Do you think you can also use the Peak Design Camera Cube Large as an Inlay? Its lige 3cm wider than the original Shimoda Inlay. But otherwise its nearly the same...
Hello Mark, I very recently bought the Shimoda 60 liter explore. I did not know that this new collection was coming out. Have I made a terrible mistake? It looks like my timing was way - out! I bought that blue coloured one which was less offensive than that Sea Pine, thingy! But still not keen on that colour also. Damn! Damn! Damn! lol
Hahah! I know what you mean, that happened to me on an Apple purchase a few years ago as well! I don't think you made a mistake though. The Explore series is still an incredible collection!
Just got the actionx50 nice bag really comfortable. Wish all the pockets on the bag were more relaxed and not so tight. The hip belt while comfortable with lighter loads is more suited for the smaller x30. Once you really start to stuff the x50 the hipbelt starts to flex down allowing your shoulders to start to carry the weight instead of your hips.This causes on long extended hikes shoulder wear and sorness. The belt needs to be more rigid like the atlas adventure hipbelt it flexes to much. I contacted shimoda they do make a thicker shoulder harness but not a special hipbelt for the x50 they need to address this in my opinion.
What do you think about the hydration bladder integration? Will it fit a 3L bladder? Also, how is the back padding in terms of breathability? Those airflow channels seem fairly shallow so I wonder how comfortable this bag would be during hotter days.
the x50 is amazing.. really the best looking photo bag. The only thing that sucks is that the laptop sleeve is too small for my 15" Thinkpad P1. I'm even considering getting it and carry the notebook in the upper compartment in some neoprene cover but it's a bit meh for the price.
Mark Denney - I’m so torn between the X50 and the Atlas Athlete. Also having tested the Atlas, how would you rate them against each other in: 1. Carrying comfort? 2. Overall flexibility from a photo gear packing, carrying and photography perspective (I’m looking at the mirrorless medium ICU for the X50)? 3. Packing ability/flexibility (I know that the X50 is bigger on paper but the ICU system takes some extra unused space, doesn’t it?
Hey Mark, Long time watcher, first time question: I have been going back and forth between which bag to buy into and i thought since you have experience with multiple bags you might have some insight. Atlas is releasing a V2 of the Adventurer bag and its on pre-order right now. I would love your insight between the Shimoda action x50 vs the Atlas Adventurer. I watched your video from 2018 about the Adventurer, and i have watched every video i can find on Shimoda. I am an avid hiker (day and over night) and carry around my full frame mirrorless kit. Atlas is adding a 2nd origami tab, making it airline compliant without removing the frame... ect. fixing a lot of round 1 issues and listening to customer feedback. Pros/cons the the Shimoda ICU system being removable. With your time with both bags, why did you switch? What didn't you like about the Atlas? Did i miss a video on a comparison? I know you are a bag-collector but given the $400 price tag on some of these bags... i want to make 1 purchase. Currently using the Lowepro Fastpack 250 which i have fully outgrown. Thanks- Jason
Hey Jason! Both are great packs, but the Adventure pack was just to large for my needs and I've found the Action X50 and X30 to be the perfect balance from a size perspective for me.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto It seems that your core unit is larger than what I saw in official website. Do you put a extra core unit on the medium one? (Finally I decide to buy the Large DSLR unit : )
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Just to double check - it is the Medium Mirrorless or the Medium DSLR? I'm debating the 30 vs the 50. If I do get the 50 I think i'd just want to get the Medium Mirrorless as I don't need a massive core, but am worried if it'll fit.
After buying an explore 40, I see this video...It seems much better to me, but I just can't wait to get a photography bag :(. Anyway, I'm still feeling good with my 40L, but this looks good as well!!! ( Should I go for another Shimoda bag? XD)
This looks like it might work for me, but first, a few questions for you. Do my eyes deceive me or are you strapping a full size tripod to the bag? Are the "rubber straps" on the side part of the bag, or are they the optional straps from the Kickstarter campaign BYO option? Do you think that there will be room for a thin jacket and other odds and ends in the X50 with the large DSLR cube? Thanks for an awesome video, I'm probably going to cancel my order for a celebrity photographer's bag and get this one, seems to be a better fit for me
Which Camera Bag are you using now?
Wandrd Prvke 30
I’ve heard a lot about that one, but have never seen one in person.
I use Incase DSLR Pro Pack Camera Backpack which is their older version. I have Shimoda 40, few Ona, Tenba, Vanguard but nothing comes close to he conveniently designed Incase. Wish the build quality is as good as Shimoda or Mindshift backpacks. But it is 2-years old and is going great. Frankly, I hate Shimoda as taking in and out camera is such a pain. Maybe Incase spoiled me.
An old lowepro is mine now and I think it's time to upgrade.
kits VA I remember talking to you awhile back about your InCase bag - great to hear it’s still working out for you👍
Why do I enjoy watching videos about backpacks so much?
Check out Chase Reeves’ channel. We are a special group of backpack obsessed people over there lol
Great vid mate, brilliantly put together as usual! I don’t think you will find a better review on UA-cam
PhotoNinja Much appreciated - thank ya👍👍
I just got the Action X30 and I love it. Great video, it helped me a ton
Great review I bought after watching thanks
Excellent Review, Mark! Greetings from Eastern, N.C.!
Currently I use a Mindshift 26L. There are a few features, like the pockets on the shoulder straps that I wish the Mindshift had, but am pretty happy with my Mindshift.
Rod Best I have that as well - very good pack!
well verbalised ~ I just ordered this Very bag yesterday. Thank you
The best and most informative content about Shimoda's products. Got the X30 for a while now and plan to upgrade to the X50 together with the top loader. Did not know about the belt pouche yet. Nice and very useful addition.
Thank you for the review. Just found your channel and subscribed. I love how you can pull out the little bag on each side of the bag for either tripod or water bottle carrying, really slick!
Nice job explaining what all the bag can handle and hope you enjoy it. BTW, I like your "studio". I need something like that.
Tom Clemons Much appreciated Tom!
What a great bag. I would love to see the smaller one
This man knows his camera bags! Thanks! I'm still looking for the perfect camera bag and this could be it. I'll be investigating further.
Mark,
Maybe you could help me? The main annoyance of the bag i'm currently using (a F-stop guru) is that stuff in the top section of the bag (above the ICU) slips down into the bottom section with the potential for falling out altogether. Would you say that the same problem would occur with the Shimoda X30 - which also has a separate inner? Does it fit the outer more closely? Otherwise it looks like the perfect bag for me now I'm using m4/3 kit. .
Okay, Mark... just pledged for the Shimoda Action X30 and Front Loader via your link. I do enjoy your channel and am glad to pass along my support... meager though it may be. :) I'm really looking forward to it. I hiked 4 miles yesterday with my son's school backpack and would have given someone $500 for the Shimoda about 1/2 way through that hike. lol
Brian Thomas Thanks so much Brian - I really appreciate it! You’re going to love the X30!!
Great review. Thanks. I love my 40L more than any bag I’ve used previously, but this looks even better!!
Thanks Steve! Appreciate you checking out the video!
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Is it worth upgrading from the 40L?
Finally a Big bag! I may have jump on the 70L for backcountry hiking/camping, it's what I've been looking for!
I see one thing in common with all camera specific backpacks: they’re heavy. Crazy that their 30 liter pack weights almost 4lbs alone.
I've seen several reviews about this bag. This is by far the most useful, thanks a lot!
Thanks so much - this is great to hear!
I like that bag. I just purchased 2 new lenses, and my current camera bag wont fit them. I may have to keep my eye out for this one. Thanks for the review! It's good to see the functionality from a straight shooter like yourself. See you next week my friend!
Erick Lindberg Thanks Erick! See ya next week buddy!
"Empty capacity" I don't think I ever hiked around with such a thing. More like stuff hanging from every possible strap. Good review.
lavapix Haha I’ve been on trips like that before where🤣
Thank you for such an informative review of the Schimoda 50 which I have watched twice now. Currently using F-Stop Anja but now getting close to moving to Schimoda 50
Hi Mark..I'm really happy with my Atlas Athlete (I did a 6 month YT review vlog of it) and I have abused it totally and its holding up well so far. Works well for my landscape trips where I want less camera kit/more hiking gear and to be honest I think it seems to me Atlas may have shaken up the other makers a bit which can only be good and I think design features are way more user friendly than bags just a few years ago. Great review btw and be interesting the price of these which is the only downside because at least here in the UK you're looking at £350-400 for these (Atlas/Shimoda) bags which is a lot and I only justified it by saying it'll need to last 10 years ++
Nigel Morley Thanks Nigel - glad you think so!
Thats why I'm tempted with the Lowepro Protactic....huge price difference for us British.
Nothing can be better, than Tamrac 5589 Expedition 9x Backpack. I use it many years and will use it forever-forever-forever. I changed cameras, lens, gears etc, but my backpack still the best! ;) ;) ;) I used it at all continents, except Antarctica., including 10-14 days fully autonomous expeditions.
Ps.: Thx for good video and good Chanel.
This bag is incredible! I'm really sad now is out of stock because after this review I was really impressed and I wanted to buy it!
Love the Sony Walkman. I have the same one.
These new bags are super functional but I actually prefer the look of the Explore series, with the leather zippers etc.
Tom Eden Yes I’ll admit the leather zip pulls were a nice touch!
Such a great review!! -your pro cinematography makes the experience soo clean and clear! I love the Shimoda and im thinking about buying it i just really want at least a few lash points so im torn between this and the new LowePro tactical- but i really wish this just had a few more lash points for impromptu added carry on the back
I like the thought process in the design of this bag. The adjustable shoulder height strap is a very good aid indeed. The camera core design too is quite good. The other good alternative is the Atlas Athlete bag
Why do we feel the need to carry this much camera equipment? Lighten up on the load and equipment and enjoy your photography so much more! If I am going for a 4 day hike, 40 L is way more than enough. 50L is huge for just camera equipment. 70L is crazy!!! :). Keep up the great work Mark! Love your videos.
Thanks so much! Great to hear you're enjoying the channel!
Depends on what you are carry in the field - taking a 8x10 or a Red EPIC into the field and the 70L makes sense - different sizes for different objectives.
This bag deffinitely fits all of my necesity’s!! Looking between this or the lowepro whistler 450 aw ii (too big) and now i found this vid! Thank you
Wish I'd known this one was coming out before I ordered my 40L a couple months ago after you suggested to me the 40L over the Atlas bag...dang!
Hi Mark. Very much enjoy your videos. Can I make a suggestion? I am sure I am not your only female subscriber. When you do reviews like this can you also talk about the bags viability for women? Although Shimoda has taken more steps than bag manufacturers to address woman specific fit, we still have to pay extra to buy woman specific straps. It is an option as I feel it should be. It is an over $50 additional cost to the bag which is already quite pricey. Adding this additional information will give a fuller review of the product. Doesn't make a difference for most products but for camera bags it definitely does. Again, really enjoy your videos.
Pam Lambros Thanks so much for this Pam and great suggestion! Good news
Is that for the new Action X collection the women specific straps do not cost anything additional this time👍
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Thanks. That is good news.
I noticed that in many store it offers to buy the pack or the starter kit. Does it mean that the camera unit doesn't come with the bag?
Hi Mark, thanks for the great video! How comfortable are the shoulder straps of this bag? They seem somewhat thin and without a whole lot of padding. How do you find it after a day walking around with a bag full of heavy gear?
Looks like a great pack. My only concern is the distance of the water bladder compartment to the shoulder strap where a hose would hang for easy access. Looks like you might need a hose extension to make it long enough. That's kind of nitpicking and no big deal however.
Bill Kipper I’m not sure Bill, I never use water bladders and haven’t tested that out.
Guess you don’t like the Atlas bag you were so keen on awhile back anymore. Another trusted review.
Donald Hart I like it for when I need to only carry a few things - in that scenario it’s my go to bag👍
Hi. I know this is an older video. But I’m looking for a new bag and the x50 v2 looks good. But for owners of the v1. Has there been any issues with air travel and carry on? Especially for international flights?
I thought you were an Atlas bag guy? I bought the Atlas bag 10 months ago based on your 3 bag review and I have no regrets.
Ron Langager I still use mine as well on short day trips when I don’t need to bring much.
Great video again Mark. Just wonder would you recommend Shimoda Action X30 or Atlas Athlete for everyday carry?
Thank you! Ohhhh that's a good question, but I'd have to say the Action X30
8:38 - 8:43 My favorite part of the video
Luisa Torre 😎
do you recommend this bag or the atlas action? i have a sony 200-600 id like to keep attatched to the camera
With this one it really looks like Shimoda finally made it! This looks like the perfect camera bag!
It has everything - waterbottle pockets on both sides for those haters that always miss them, rollout top, side access that actually works with all camera cubes!
I am truly fascinated! Shame I didn't wait until they make it right and bought Lowepro Whistler :/
Denis Bede It’s for sure my favorite right now!
I’m looking at one of these and watched the film with great interest, so thank you, I have one question and one remark. Question: when the roll top lid is full to the top, does it still keep water out? Remark: I have concerns that those mesh pockets won’t stand the test of time holding the weight of a tripod. The ones on my Lowepro bag have torn wil only the continued use of a water bottle. As it’s some time since you made this video, you may have the answers? Many thanks
Yes I’ve found that you can have the roll top fully extended as long as you have it rolled down at least a single turn then it’ll keep water out - at least in my experience. Regarding the mesh pockets - they’re actually sturdier than they look - not issues at all here.
Hi Mark I also saw your older video comparing the f stop with Shimoda and Atlas athlete. You recommended the Atlas then. Do you now recommend the Shimoda over the atlas athlete?
I was learning a lot about landscape photography from you until just recently when you seem to have started hawking products. Do you plan to go back to instructional videos anytime soon or is this the new norm?
Can you please make a comparison of the 30 and 50? Preferably in both colors! :-) Thanks
Would you recommend the Action over the Explore for Landscape photography?
Hey Mark, quick question, I have the old medium DSLR camera core that I bought for my Explore 40. Will I be able to migrate that to the X50? I understand I won't have side access but that doesn't bother me as I always grab my camera from the rear. I'm more worried about fit/compatibility
So when the bag is fully loaded how easy is it to clasp up the top? And would be still be ok as a carry on ( cabin ) for short flights etc?
Hey Mark, the ICU in the bottom of the bag, is that the medium size? What about the one that sits on the top of that?
Chris
The one on the bottom is the Medium Core and the one on top is the small core.
Hi Mark...watch you u-tube allot! Nice to see your growth, and change over time. I went to Costa Rica last year and realized I needed a better backpack for my camera gear. decided to follopw your recommendation yet they didn't accept the "Shimoda10" discount code. Just FYI keep loading new educational videos as we all greatly appreciate it. R. Pearson
Thanks for this review. It has really helped in my decision making process. Just trying to decide between the x30 and x50. Would it be possible to put both a small and medium icu in the x30?
Michael L I’m not 100% on that one, but it easily fits in the X50
Shimoda web side sess yes, for the medium mirrorless ICU in the X30.
I'm not totally sold on it. First, I'd prefer the middle between 30 and 50 liters with a 40 liter bag, and second I'd like to have the side access to the gear on the other side, so that I can grab my camera with my right hand right away. But besides that, it seems like a very solid bag. Can you detach the waist strap of it? 🤔
Goat Eye Photography Yep, it has a removable waist belt
Thank you for the review. I have one question for you since I am considering the f-stop Tilipa 50L against this bag (or maybeeven the Shimoda Explore 60). The question is, if you know if it it possible toattach e.g. a tent externally at the bottom of the bag and e.g. at sleeping bag
The roll tops are what bikers have used for a good twenty years or more, cowboys before that! I can vouch for their design if we’ll made made from a suitable canvas style material, which this one appears to be, having ridden several days on the bounce on numerous occasions in some extreme weather, never any leakage into the bag.
How do you like the back panel laptop sleeve compared to that in the Atlas Athlete? I’m looking for an everyday backpack that can carry my mirrorless kit, X1 carbon, and 60% keyboard.
Vic Equi I like it, but I’m on the fence as to which style I prefer best. I don’t have any issues though with either laptop compartment.
Mark Denney, thanks for the reply. I know this isn’t the use case that you addressed in your video, but until my local store stocks the X30, video experiences are all I have to go by. In the wilderness, a laptop might not be even brought along because of the Gnarbox so it might be a moot point.
I like very much how this bag feels, and I kind of like side access. But laptop compartment seems more secure to me in the Atllas Athlete than in the X series, where it is in the back cover, it seems. Other places where it can be put ?
have you done a water test on it, mine leaks
Hello Mark, here's a question for you? Would you rather use a Shimoda explore 60 liters or the new Shimoda Action 50X ?
hi mark whats ur tripod brand?
I use Peak design sling bag 10l v2 all black but I use it for my iPhone XS and gimbal smooth 4 AWESOME
could you recommend another brand that looks so great as shimoda? I'd love to buy either X50 or V2 35, but unfortunately I can't fit my 15" notebook inside any of them.
Does this comes with raincovers?
Have you looked at the Peter McKinnon/Nomatic backpack? I’m between it and the Shimoda Action X30. Mostly for urban environments ... just need to be able to carry a lot of stuff with me comfortably all day and often. Just wanted to see if you had any thoughts!
I haven't seen the McKinnon pack in person, but I can attest that the Action X series is fantastic!
For urban environment Nomatic bag might be better but for hiking or trekking Shinoda outclasses it by a huge margin.
Do you think it will be better for organising and storing your non-camera items like clothes etc if the front top zip and the front flap zip (the one with ability to put water bladder) can be open suitcase style instead of just a horizontal opening?
Nice review! Does the pack come with a core case or do you have to buy that separately? Based on the starter packs sold it seems as if you buy the pack and core case separately but hard to be certain. I have a Fuji kit as well, do you find that this pack is overkill given the camera size? Thanks!
Nate Mietkiewicz Thanks Nate! I recently switched to the Shimoda Action X30 for my Fuji setup - perfect fit! Yes, you’ll need to either purchase a starter kit or purchase the core seperateley.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto that is really helpful, Thanks! Keep up the amazing content
Would you be able to also fit the Mavic pro on the top portion and use some of the other pockets for batteries and other stuff?
Ive been using a Lowepro Whistler and a Fstop Shinn, went to see the material of the Shimoda as I needed a 50L backpack, It looked like I was comparing an Audi (Lowepro and Fstop) to a FIAT (Shimoda). The material looks very cheap.
Mark, would you say this is a great bag for a multi-day ( 3 - 5 days) thru-hike where you would carry camera gear, tent (maybe on outside with gait keepers), food, etc. and all other essentials?
Jason Schexnayder I’d say more like a 1-3 day pack.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Awesome! Thank you Mark. Great review!
Any reason you can see for using the mirrorless medium core unit in an x50, or does it only make sense for the X30? Seems you would just end up with unused space around the unit or a less snug fit for the unit. I would guess the medium DSLR core units leave more space for your mirrorless gear to bounce around in compared to the Atlas pack.
Hi Mark, thanks for this review. Still deciding between this and the Atlas Athlete. Which one would be best also for non-camera gear? I only have a fuji X-T3 + 2 lenses (maybe 3 max) so very little camera gear; but I'm looking for a bag that I could use for a 2 weeks trip abroad, hence clothes, towels, etc. Also, It needs to be carried in flight cabins.
So which one would you recommend? X30 vs X50 vs Atlas Athlete?
Thanks!
Wayan
Wayan Barre For that I would recommend the X50.
Mark Denney thanks Mark. Amazing to see such prompt reply ahah!
See you!
I like the way the bag looks, but I’m just afraid to drop more money on another bag. I bought the LowePro 450 tactical bag and it holds all my gear, but that’s it. I went day hiking a couple of weeks ago and my wife had to carry a backpack too just for snacks and supplies for our 2 dogs. I’m very tempted, what will push me over the edge and make me get this bag and fall in love with it?
This is a great looking bag! I want one even though most of my work is much more urban or corporate! Thanks for the excellent review! (oh and FYI, I do bag reviews on my channel too!)
Can you still use the Explore ICU's? I also don't access the side panel so that is not an issue. I have the Explore 40 but would really like the roll top and added side pockets. Also, have you seen the 30? Would it be closer to the 40 in terms of volume but with smaller footprint because of the rolltop? Thanks.
Michael Lutfy I’m still using the small core from my Explore 40 and it fits just about perfect. I haven’t seen the 30 in person though.
How is the airflow on the backside in warm conditions? My fstop loka is very sweaty...
Bruno Mooser I haven’t noticed that it’s really any better or worse than some of my other bags, but I sweat a ton on warm hikes so it’s a bit hard for me to tell.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto same as me, so I hoped for a cool solution
Hi Mark. I can see Thea Timon x30 has only 3 fitting sizes, small, medium and large. I am 6 foot with broad shoulders, and would like to know if I should go toward the x50 instead. I still feel that the x50 is a little large for me. I use a D500 with sigma 17-50, and a sigma 18-300 as main lenses....what suggestions for bag size.? Thanks
I'd suggest going for the X50. What's great about this size is that if you don't need the extra capacity you can condense the overall size of the bag quite dramatically.
That bag is awesome, going to have to give them a real look-see. I'm just getting into videography, so looking for a good bag to carry equipment.
Such a great pack - hands down my new favorite!
How do you like it compared to the Atlas packs?
Michael Breitung I like it better! This is probably my new favorite back for any kind of outdoor photography.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Thanks for your feedback. It's quite excited by how many new packs are currently developed.
I have watched a bunch of reviews of this bag and it looks great, but it seems like there would be no way to fit a big tele in there, like a 400/2.8 or the Sony 200-600mm. Is that true, or can you get a big enough core unit to do that?
Any issues using the 30 or 50 as a carry on?
Thanks for the review and all your videos! I am torn between x30 and x50. Is the x50 carry on friendly? As a father of two, I usually have to carry non-photo-related stuff, so extra capacity would be nice, but not if it means I cannot take the bag on a plane...
find any info on that?
Mark - is the X50 approved for carry-on luggage for flights? I know the X30 is but not sure if the X50 will get rejected as too big for carry on
Damien Verrinder I haven’t had any issues with mine.
How do you think this would fare as a daily bag? Did this replace your Atlas Athlete as your daily carry bag?
I'm still bouncing back and forth from the x30 and x50.
The hunt for the perfect bag will never end! I went for Vanguard alternatives. For hiking around my home in Utah or any hike during a road trip where I can take my car, I use the Vanguard Sedona 43 Sling bag. I got it on an insane discount from B&H. Last month I ordered the Vanguard Veo Select 49 Backpack but it's still backordered. Whenver I travel in air, I feel nervous about paying extra if the bag looks bigger than usual. Lowepro, Peak Design, Shimoda...... I looked everywhere and whatever I liked was $250+. So I argued with myself a lot and finally decided to go with two bags instead of one large bag. Nowadays, beautiful bags like this Shimoda bag are coming out with many functionalities ....but as a hobbyist, my 'cost-to-satisfaction ratio' stops me to spend a lot :P
I know what you mean - the search for the perfect camera bag is something that never ends :)
When NOT packed to its capacity, could this be carry on for a flight? Trying to decide between this and the 30L. Thanks.
Still holding…
He confirmed more than once on other comments that yes it will fit. Hope that helps.
Do you think you can also use the Peak Design Camera Cube Large as an Inlay? Its lige 3cm wider than the original Shimoda Inlay. But otherwise its nearly the same...
Hi mark , do you think it is better than TILOPA 50L DuraDiamon? the
Hello Mark, I very recently bought the Shimoda 60 liter explore. I did not know that this new collection was coming out. Have I made a terrible mistake? It looks like my timing was way - out! I bought that blue coloured one which was less offensive than that Sea Pine, thingy! But still not keen on that colour also. Damn! Damn! Damn! lol
Hahah! I know what you mean, that happened to me on an Apple purchase a few years ago as well! I don't think you made a mistake though. The Explore series is still an incredible collection!
Just got the actionx50 nice bag really comfortable. Wish all the pockets on the bag were more relaxed and not so tight. The hip belt while comfortable with lighter loads is more suited for the smaller x30. Once you really start to stuff the x50 the hipbelt starts to flex down allowing your shoulders to start to carry the weight instead of your hips.This causes on long extended hikes shoulder wear and sorness. The belt needs to be more rigid like the atlas adventure hipbelt it flexes to much. I contacted shimoda they do make a thicker shoulder harness but not a special hipbelt for the x50 they need to address this in my opinion.
They make a bigger hip belt now, but agree, the standard hip belt is worthless.
What do you think about the hydration bladder integration? Will it fit a 3L bladder?
Also, how is the back padding in terms of breathability? Those airflow channels seem fairly shallow so I wonder how comfortable this bag would be during hotter days.
the x50 is amazing.. really the best looking photo bag. The only thing that sucks is that the laptop sleeve is too small for my 15" Thinkpad P1. I'm even considering getting it and carry the notebook in the upper compartment in some neoprene cover but it's a bit meh for the price.
The X50 is looking more & more like a solid replacement for my F-Stop Gear TilopaBC (now going on 8 years old)...
I'm certainly enjoying it!
Have exact same decision to make.
Does it fit as a carry on backpack that can go under a seat?
I doubt it'll fit under the seat, but it easily fits in the overhead compartment.
Mark Denney - I’m so torn between the X50 and the Atlas Athlete. Also having tested the Atlas, how would you rate them against each other in:
1. Carrying comfort?
2. Overall flexibility from a photo gear packing, carrying and photography perspective (I’m looking at the mirrorless medium ICU for the X50)?
3. Packing ability/flexibility (I know that the X50 is bigger on paper but the ICU system takes some extra unused space, doesn’t it?
Hey Mark, Long time watcher, first time question: I have been going back and forth between which bag to buy into and i thought since you have experience with multiple bags you might have some insight. Atlas is releasing a V2 of the Adventurer bag and its on pre-order right now. I would love your insight between the Shimoda action x50 vs the Atlas Adventurer. I watched your video from 2018 about the Adventurer, and i have watched every video i can find on Shimoda. I am an avid hiker (day and over night) and carry around my full frame mirrorless kit. Atlas is adding a 2nd origami tab, making it airline compliant without removing the frame... ect. fixing a lot of round 1 issues and listening to customer feedback. Pros/cons the the Shimoda ICU system being removable. With your time with both bags, why did you switch? What didn't you like about the Atlas? Did i miss a video on a comparison? I know you are a bag-collector but given the $400 price tag on some of these bags... i want to make 1 purchase. Currently using the Lowepro Fastpack 250 which i have fully outgrown. Thanks- Jason
Hey Jason! Both are great packs, but the Adventure pack was just to large for my needs and I've found the Action X50 and X30 to be the perfect balance from a size perspective for me.
@@MarkDenneyPhoto thanks for the reply. Appreciate it.
What is the size of your Core Units? I am heisitating between the DSLR Medium and the DSLR Large.
93 Boolean I have the medium core👍
@@MarkDenneyPhoto It seems that your core unit is larger than what I saw in official website. Do you put a extra core unit on the medium one? (Finally I decide to buy the Large DSLR unit : )
Boolean 93 Yeah I’m using a Medium and a small Core combination
OK, Thank you : )
@@MarkDenneyPhoto Just to double check - it is the Medium Mirrorless or the Medium DSLR? I'm debating the 30 vs the 50. If I do get the 50 I think i'd just want to get the Medium Mirrorless as I don't need a massive core, but am worried if it'll fit.
Did you find it more comfortable than fstop Ajna?
Yes, I sure did.
Mark Denney Thanks Mark
Has anyone tried both the x50 and the f-stop tilopa (also 50L)? Thanks!
Love the bag sir👌🏻💕. Hopefully i ll get it soon
Me too!
After buying an explore 40, I see this video...It seems much better to me, but I just can't wait to get a photography bag :(. Anyway, I'm still feeling good with my 40L, but this looks good as well!!! ( Should I go for another Shimoda bag? XD)
This looks like it might work for me, but first, a few questions for you.
Do my eyes deceive me or are you strapping a full size tripod to the bag?
Are the "rubber straps" on the side part of the bag, or are they the optional straps from the Kickstarter campaign BYO option?
Do you think that there will be room for a thin jacket and other odds and ends in the X50 with the large DSLR cube?
Thanks for an awesome video, I'm probably going to cancel my order for a celebrity photographer's bag and get this one, seems to be a better fit for me
Does the Shimoda Designs Large DV Core Unit fit in the x50