Awesome camera footage of the bag when in use and highly detailed review! Getting this beautiful looking camera/hiking/travel bag for 2023 - thanks for the video review!!

By far the best review I have seen on these bags. Thanks for your honest opinion!

That review was epic. First video of yours I watched - instantly subscribed. Cool energy throughout and a great message at the end. Thanks for taking the time to do this.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Wow, thank you! It's so good to get that kind of feedback because it was a TON of work to put together haha. If it's helpful, worth it! Thanks for the sub :)

Crazy review there Ryan :) Well done. Appreciate all effort and time you've put into this. One thing I will say about the laptop sleeve... use it for other items. I'm in the same boat where I do not bring a laptop sleeve out while I am shooting but I use that sleeve almost every outing for other things I want access to when opening the back. Sometimes it's a filter sleeve, accessory pouch, lens clothes, energy bars, dead batteries... etc lots of things will fit in there and if you have a need for it, it is quite handy. Again thank you.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

For sure! Definitely appreciated seeing that tip in your videos as I hadn't thought of that. I do wish it had other pockets instead but it's certainly possible to use the space if you get creative :)

@vincenzodellama7158

Жыл бұрын

@@SignatureEdits how does it stacks up to an actual hiking bag like the Deuter Futura Air Trek? I've seen people recommending to not buy a shimoda and buy it instead along with an ICU.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

@@vincenzodellama7158 I'd say it all depends on what you're using it for! If you're using it for LONG multi day treks where you're packing a tent, sleeping bag, food, clothing etc and you just want to have your camera and a lens or two, then yes a hiking bag with an ICU would work better. For day trips you'd never bring something like the Deuter as it would be overkill... The Deuter is better for hiking stuff. BUT the Shimoda is better for photography stuff. So I'd say, which one is more of a priority for whatever it is you're doing?

Fantastic, comprehensive review. Thank you!

Phenomenal real review!

Loved this review.... thanks ! :)

Love this review! Well done.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Thank you kindly! Hope it was helpful for you :)

Thanks so much for the review! Well done make

😃👍💥 Dude! Awesome review !

Outstanding riview

Great review, Ryan. I have had all three generations of the Shimoda bags and I love them. But I admit, I am not a 1-lens guy. For me the biggest reason I went this route was the fit. For a camera bag I couldn't find anything else that fit as well. The second reason is the versatility. Especially with these later models. So many features and for the most part the ones you don't use don't get in the way. The stowable, mesh side pockets are a great example. There is one on each side so if you carry your tripod on the right or on the left you are covered. And if you don't use them they are out of the way. I will agree with you on the laptop sleeve. I, like you, never carry a laptop. I read about a lot of people do. Which brings me to your best quote of the review, "not everybody has the same needs" or something like that. It's amazing how many times I see reviewers of a product complain mightily that the particular item doesn't have precisely what they need for their specific use cases or style preferences. Still, I, too, would welcome some zippered pouches in place of the laptop sleeve. When I am outdoors using the bag and I unzip that camera compartment it is for one thing - accessing camera gear. Having some pouches (maybe a couple of those filter pouches that are on the side pocket or zipper pockets for Allen wrench which we often seem to need for tripods or L-brackets or whatever or camera remotes or whatever). Regarding the rain cover here is a pro tip. OK, a "serious amateur" tip. I do a lot of photography at the beach and in mountainous areas with lots of lava. When I head out into those areas I just put on the rain cover to protect that bag. And when I'm not using it (and it is clean) I stuff it in the bottom of the bag below the ICU. Thanks again. I just checked out your video on the new LR selection tools. Good stuff.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Well said Dan - Awesome insights!!! 100% agreed. Definitely incredible and versatile bags, and the company itself, quality of what you get etc is honestly unparalleled in my experience. I hope they come out with a no-laptop sleeve version and also a smaller micro bag - if so it would then be my perfect go-to for my weird way of shooting 😅

This is the best review and comparison between these 2 bags. I’ve been debating on which one to get for almost a year now. Like you, my biggest complaint with these bags is the lack of storage on the laptop sleeve. After a bit of digging, I found a guy who attached some small zippered pouches to the outside of the camera compartment (I can’t remember how they did it though.) It definitely looked interesting and it added a different level of functionality to the bag.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

hmm super interesting! Honestly IF a person wanted to diy and frankenbag im sure u could find an old bag on marketplace that has the pouches, cut it out and velcro or sew it onto where the laptop sleeve is!

love and appreciate your review. Funny and a lot of info. thanks

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@stevetqp9152

12 күн бұрын

Wow Ryan! What a superb review of these fantastic camera backpacks! I am researching the Explore V2 30L for my Nikkor Z system…My question is this: Do you think that the 30L with the “large” cube would accommodate a 12.5” long Nikkor Z 180-600 f/5.6-6.3 zoom, plus a Z8 and maybe 2 or 3 smaller lenses? (I’m also 5’7”, and don’t think I need the larger 35L size. Thank again!

Just got the Action X30 and I love it….can’t wait to get it out in the elements!!

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Beauty! Enjoy :)

**TIMESTAMPS & DISCOUNT CODE!** 0:00 - Intro 0:37 - Shimoda Action X 1:13 - Shimoda Explore V2.0 1:25 - Zippers, Weather Seal & Finish **SHIMODA BAGS SHARED FEATURES** 2:29 - Height Adjustable Harness 2:46 - Shoulder Straps 2:52 - Women Specific Shoulder Straps 3:52 - Side Camera Access & Rear Camera Access 4:05 - Laptop Sleeve 4:28 - Laptop Upper Pass Through 4:37 - Removable Waist Strap 5:03 - Removable, Modular Core Units & Capacity 5:32 - 35L vs 30L & Sizing Advice 8:00 - Bag Layout 8:40 - Stowable Tripod & Storage Pouches 9:06 - Side Compression Straps 9:16 - Accessory Straps 9:28 - Material Quality 9:47 - Rain Cover 10:05 - Ultra Reinforced Bottom 10:18 - Low Profile Compression Straps 10:25 - Internal Support Frame 10:41 - Zipper Divided Internal Pockets 11:10 - Key Ring Quick Release Holder 11:33 - Hydration Bladder Access Point 11:56 - Chest Buckle Safety Whistle 12:10 - Travel & Carry On **ACTION X VS EXPLORE V2 DIFFERENCES** 12:51 - Shimoda Action X vs Explore V2 Differences: 13:02 - Luggage Pass-Thru Handle 13:30 - Lens Filter Side Pocket 13:48 - TSA Friendly Lockable Zippers 13:57 - Secret Passport Pocket 14:19 - Base Grab Handle 14:37 - Breathable Mesh Webbing 15:17 - Dual Access Document Pouch 15:58 - Shimoda Action X Unique Features 16:02 - Cargo Expanding Roll Top 16:44 - Rear Webbing & Attachment Points 16:56 - Heavier Duty Wear Resistant Materials 17:19 - Removable Helmet Holder 17:34 - Heavier Duty Compression Straps 18:04 - Vertical Side Pocket Storage **REAL WORLD TESTING & EXPERIENCE** 18:12 - Real World Experience 18:35 - Frustration #1 - Sizing Choice 20:01 - Frustration #2 - Misunderstanding Features 21:20 - Frustration #3 - Laptop Sleeve 21:49 - Frustration #4 - Camera Cube Sizing 22:00 - Good For Wedding Photographers? **COMPETITION COMPARISON** 22:50 - How Does It Stack Up? 23:17 - The Verdict: Should You Buy It? 23:46 - The Apple Of Camera Bags 24:36 - Apply This Lesson To Your Photography 25:25 - Why Shimoda Won Me Over 25:59 - Who This Bag Is For 26:31 - Final Thoughts & Conclusion #shimoda #camerabags #photographybag **USE DISCOUNT CODE "SIGNATURE10" for 10% off all Shimoda gear!** shimoda-designs.j8ujgp.net/WDVeJO

I just ordered the V30 … had been wavering and watched this review … Excellent review: features, discussion of your experience … everything. Now, this bag is likely srsly overkill for me as a short day hiker/amateur photographer/videographer. But, I love all of the options on the shoulder straps as well as options for strapping things like hiking poles, tripod AND my 360 mount … plus all of the things I take for my canine hiking companion and me! I think that I am prepared for the size … we’ll see. And thanks for the discount code which worked even now 5 months later 😊

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Nice Liz! Really glad it helped you in your decision :) I think having a pup to hike with this bag would be AWESOME, since the extra room lets you bring some dog snacks & trail necessities along with room to spare :) Enjoy!

@theroadhome_Liz_Summers

Жыл бұрын

@@SignatureEdits I've had my V30 for little over a week. It is working very well for me and I think part of my liking it was my expectations were realistic based on this video as well as commenter's reactions ... i.e. I knew it would be large for me and might take getting used to. I am still working on what goes where and have been using some bubble pack in lieu of normal dividers while I figure all of that out. I am carrying 2 360 cameras attached to selfie sticks, my Canon 60D with a medium sized lens in the main compartment. Easy to get to via the side opening. I have a very short lens for the Canon in another area. I do have a bladder insert but for my short walk/hikes I use soft flasks (Fitly) ... one in the side water bottle pocket and some extras in the pack. I use the strap pouches for Bear Spray (pepper spray ... I am in NW Montana so it is the largish canister type) and the other for my phone. Various dog items: pickup bags, treats are easily storable and right now (Winter-spring transition) a packable down jacket .. I normally wear a light down vest this time of year. I am headed rapidly toward 68 so I pack a bit more than a younger person might in case I injure myself and need to wait for help. Bottomline, although larger than what I need, I am able to pack what I want and it is comfortable on my body. FWIW, I did get the "woman" straps but I haven't changed to them ... yet. The "man" straps are comfortable for me and have larger pockets. ***edited to add: for reference, I am 5' 7"

I definitely agree with you about this bag, I want to love it but I don’t quite love it, at least not yet. I’m an adventure elopement photographer and I love all the features of the bag, but it’s honestly too heavy for me. I’m 5’ 4.5” and the bag looks massive on me 😅 but I love the rugged features of it. It’s definitely meant to be an outdoor bag. I’ve only used it for 1 elopement season so far so I definitely need to play with it more. I also wasn’t careful about what gear I brought with me that added a significant amount of weight. I used a metal water bottle, carried extra camera gear that I didn’t plan to use, etc. I definitely want to figure out how to use it the best for myself and my photography.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Oh wow sounds like we've had the same experience Karlie! It's an amazing bag for the right situation / right person. I'm thinking the 25L would be WAY better for me - Which size did you get?

@ShimodaDesigns

Жыл бұрын

Our bags are not always an instant hit with new users. It worth giving yourself some time to get to know it. I know it's not like most bags out there, and it can require a little acclimatization to get the most out it. Also a great idea to refine your gear and packing while out in the wild. Not just with our gear - but any. The less energy you're burning carrying your gear around, the more focus you'll have for the images. Ian

@karlielarson7430

Жыл бұрын

@@SignatureEdits I have the Action X30!

@polanialmoni6274

Жыл бұрын

Any alternative for under 200?

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

There ARE a ton of bags on amazon etc for under 200 - It all depends on what you need it for though :) Most bags are for more standard photoshoots, weddings, day trips etc - not so much for adventure style hiking. For under 200 I would probably look at 1) Buying something used on marketplace OR if you need the waterproof adventure bag with a frame.... Buying a hiking bag & using a camera cube insert... depending on how much gear you need to bring this might be a great option!

Very good illustration and comparison. But why is the side pocket for the camera on the right-hand side? All right-handers don't take the camera out of the backpack with their left hand. For the price, both sides should be possible.

Thank you for the review. I have to decide which size to buy, 25 L or 30 L. I prefer the lightest possible, but I usually have to fit this gear: − Canon EOS R6 + Canon RF 24-105 f/4 L IS USM − Canon RF 16 mm f/2.8 and/or Canon RF 35 mm f/1.8 − Rode VideoMic GO II − DJI Mavic Mini + controller + batterypack (or a flash) What would be the best choice?

I've used my action X for quite a while now. Still not in love with it. Organization is just not there for me. My biggest gripe, as you mentioned, is the lack of pockets on the main cover where laptop cushioning is. Think they could have gone with a little less cushioning (or none) and still added pockets for cards, batteries, etc. Like you said. Now I've had to purchase a couple extra gadget cases that ad to the cost of the bag and put them into odd sections of the bag where they are not easily accessible when I'm doing my wildlife photography and trying to make as little movement as possible. Also have to zip up the main cover and flip the the bag up to access the pockets at the top where I keep snacks, etc. since zipper openings are at the bottom while bag is laying on the ground. Not optimal for maintaining stealth out in the field. I don't think it's a matter of getting acclimated with it , but more learning how to deal with the quirks after spending quite a bit of $ for the bag.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

great points! i definitely think its a great bag for some, and soooo close for others - for your situation i can see where those things would stack up. agree 100% - without the laptop sleeve and a bunch of extra zip pockets etc there instead it would make a big difference!

Thanks for your point of view. Let’s face it, as a photographer you probably own several camera bags. The gripes you have about these Shimoda bags come from the fact that you are willing to use them for another purpose than what they were intended to. I already have a small bag (Vanguard something) for city walks, a 2-lens 1-camera setup. But right now I’m looking for a bag to go on my next summer trip and that could carry my new A7R5, Tamron 28-200, Sony 100-400 and Sony 20 1.8 G. And a few other non-photography related stuff. And then even the Explorer 25 is not big enough. But Also I have a weak back so definitely looking for a bag with a comfy and usable waist strap. So my future bag cannot be too small. It at least needs to be long enough for the waist strap to sit on my heaps….

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

You bet! I love the shimoda straps, love the extra room, love the build quality - and if they fit your needs and style, you will love the bag. 🙂

I think your complaint about the laptop sleeve on the Action X is pretty silly. The Action X has features more tailored to outdoor adventure, yes. But it would be terrible if the folks who need that kind of backpack AND also want to travel with it (so might need the option of bringing a laptop) would have to compromise and get the Explore V2.

Good review…..

Bro, why are you wearing a jacket indoors? I am sweating just looking at this vid. :D Thx for the review!

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

😂 i was cold from outside when I started… by the end of the vid I was a sweaty mess!!! haha learned that lesson now

What do you recommend for a wedding photographer?

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Honestly it depends on exactly how much gear you like to carry, and also what your typical wedding looks like (elopements in seattle would be very different from roman catholic weddings in LA etc) Personally I carry 2 bags - Both are lowepro, both just the cheap basic backpacks. The bags for me arent as important as having TWO, because i put all my “need all day” in one bag, and the reception and lowlight stuff, backup gear, misc stuff i only sometimes use in the other :)

Actually, I’m wondering what that yellow smaller bag was ? Lol. May I ask which bag it was? Thanks.

@SignatureEdits

10 ай бұрын

😂 fair question! just an rei brand 15L backpack… idk the model… but i like it!

Will it fit a 600mm lens?

@SignatureEdits

5 ай бұрын

My guess would be yes, full length of the bag. But i believe the dimensions are on the site (link below)

Had the x30, had the 30lv2, now the 25lV2. Only one thing, I do not like (or two to be exact): I wish there were 2 real waterbottlepouches, not these meshy dangling stowaways. 2nd thing is, I wish the laptopsleeve also had a tablet sleeve in front, because I travel with both and dont wanna put the tablet in the front of the bag.

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

Very interesting! That's funny because for me I LOVE the pouches on the site - They're the best of any bag I've ever used... EVER. But that's because I use them for far more than just water bottles... And I love the cinch tabs. Same with the tablet sleeve - I hardly ever bring a laptop and never bring a tablet, so for me I don't miss it. Just goes to show how there is NO perfect bag since we all use our bags a little differently :) Great share Kay! Appreciate the perspective

@kaygb

Жыл бұрын

@@SignatureEdits well, I don’t carry my Laptop when hiking, but for transit, I like both to be protected and always carry both, because in the evening, there has to be my Mac. What’s annoying with the pouches is, when secured against swinging with the strap, u cannot really use the side access or the side pocket. That’s what I really love about my PD everyday backpack I carry around since 2017. I just ain’t no good for camera stuff (in my eyes).

@SignatureEdits

Жыл бұрын

@@kaygb Gotchu! Yeah that's something I did notice when attaching stuff in the pockets... But a standard water bottle pocket would still do the same thing in terms of side access I think?