Thanks Drew and glad to hear that you found the video helpful 🙏 I don't think you'll be disappointed with your new purchase - enjoy it and have fun out there! 🙂📸
Hey Valerie. Manesh here. Love this video and Shimoda for me make the best bags. I have the explore v2 bag and it’s made for landscape photographers. An amazing bag and Shimoda really think and are innovative.
Hi Manesh, I've been curious about the Explore V2 - it's great if you just want to travel light. It fits all your gear comfortably? Agree with you 100% there - quality things are worth investing in 🙂 Thanks as always for watching and your comments 🙏
Looks like a good bag! That's the main thing, that you have a bag that is both practical and comfortable. Nothing worse than carrying a bag that just doesn't feel good on your back and doesn't carry everything you need. I have two K&F Concept bags that suit me fine. One I use for my dedicated large format bag, with my 4x5 camera and all the lenses and bits n pieces. Though, if I were to buy a dedicated long hiking camera bag, I would probably get something similar to the Shimoda or like my old army backpack, which could pack in over 100L of stuff!! That bag was a monster, probably overkill, really. Especially for a camera bag!!😊
Thanks for your comments 🙏 and couldn't agree with you more there Carl about comfort and practicality! Yes, only buy what you need and if your current bags are doing the job for you, that's great 👍 Sounds like your 100L is overkill though 😄 Goodness, can you even move with that bag full and strapped to your back?! Hope you have a great weekend.
4:08 For some reason Shimoda Action X V2 regular version sti has the old back design. I don't have no idea why. Shimoda mentioned durability being a reason when talking about Explore v2vs Action v2. But why did the women's version get it then? After having airy Evoc backpack I don't want to return to a sweaty backpack. But Shimoda is so appealing to me in other ways. I'm interested in the X40 V2. Are there other differences? Maybe I should get the women's version? see if the straps work for me if not change to regular straps. As a mountain biker I experienced the same thing before on different backpacks, so I need something breathable. This is one of the reasons I keep using y Evoc Explorer 30L backpack, despite it not being suitable for photography, camera gear, I made it work with DIY solutions. But my back stays cool. And even Evoc's backpack range is mix between new back cooling and warmer one, only 25L photography backpack from them has it. But I really sohuld get a photography backpack. Shimoda is on top of the list, but the back thing is a no-no for me. so it seems like no backpack for me exists so far, but maybe the women's model would work for me.
Thanks Pia 🙏 I think I don't need to worry anymore about packing all those extra tees to change 😅 And I couldn't wait to finish filming so that I could smash down that Picnic!
Thanks for a lovely review, Valerie. An excellent tip re the phone pocket: I like a gigantaphone too, and in future I'll make sure to check any phone pocket for size. You went into it in wonderful depth and I must say, the backpack looked like a great fit on you, and seemed spacious enough. If you need more volume, I expect you have your larger Shimoda. Though I have an f-stop (Ajna), I think the Shimoda backpacks are better - more thought seems to have gone into them, and the quality looks to be better too, for much the same price. Since Izzy Abuleela mentioned hunters in a forest where he was searching for mushrooms, I've been thinking a really bright colour is a good idea: people + guns doesn't always = common sense.
Really appreciate your comments and support Mick 🙏 and good to know you're a fellow gigantaphone owner who's probably always looking for things with big pockets 😄 I sometimes felt my old 50L bag engulfed me, and think the 40L is a great fit for my size. I was looking at the Anja at one stage - it is a great bag. You're right, there are fine differences in the quality of materials and design and I'm a Shimoda fangirl! As long as your bag's comfortable and does the job for you, you're good to go. Take care Mick 🙂👍
Nicely done review Valerie. Awesome to see you diversifying the content you’re producing. Loved seeing that curious bird from a previous episode make a cameo 😂
Thanks Shaun 🙏 Yes, I think it's a natural progression and having a few different playlists on my channel was always in the cards. As you might know, I love birds and that Kea left an impression (literally and figuratively speaking)!
I just received my Action X40 V2 in black (the yellow and the women's versions weren't available and I need it soon) and it doesn't have the mesh back and straps. The women's tech straps that came with it were the old version, too, so without the mesh and with different pockets. No problem for me, have the straps on my Explore 30 V2 and love them, and I like that the non-mesh back and straps don't collect dirt and plant seeds (which is great when you travel to places where you have to be careful about not bringing foreign species with you). The Explore 30 V2 has been the best and most comfortable photography bag I ever had, and I think I will love the Action X40 V2 just as much!
Hi Sabrina, great to hear that you've received your Action X40 V2! You make some good points about the mesh that I hadn't previously thought about. There are definitely some pros to the laminate Jersey material and I think you'll love this new bag just as much as your Explore V2. Hard to go wrong with Shimoda! Thanks for your comments and happy adventures out there! 🙏😀👍📸
That’s a very comprehensive review, Valerie! I’ve had about 8 or 9 different bags, but so far, none have worked as well as my large Lowe Pro. I haven’t tried Shimoda though…
Thanks Peter 🙏 I think if you're curious, you should definitely have a look at their new range. Don't need to tell you that I ❤️ Shimoda 😄, but that's because I think they're excellent quality, innovative in their designs and offer lots of customisable options. You've been through 8-9 bags?!!
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Yes, ma’m. The most recent deviation was the F-Stop brand. Even their largest one still wasn’t large enough! The trouble now is, the Mavic 3 Pro, with extra batteries and controller, takes up so much space. I love the rear opening bags like the Shimoda and F-Stop, but accessing everything with the largest module inside is kinda fiddly because only 2/3 of the rear opens.
😅 sounds like it has been all about trial and error for you! Yes, I can imagine the Mavic 3 Pro and all its accessories needing probably 3/4 of the space! I understand the Action X70 comes with modular inserts that means you can now access from the back and top - designed for big long lenses - and maybe your drone! I don't know if that might help? 🤷
Great review Valerie! Really detailed. I have an Atlas Athlete which is great but already banged up now 😁 been hearing a lot about Shimoda and loads of photographers I follow use ‘em, might be something I’ll look into.
Many thanks for your comments 🙏 Yes, I've noticed the same - I was introduced to the brand after seeing some of my favourite creators tout it. And I really believe rightly so 🙂 Each to their own, do your own research, but IMO Shimoda is leading the way with quality and innovation, and their bags actually look good too 😉 Good luck with your upgrade! 👍
Yes, it was the start of the Hooker Valley track Pieter! Of course you'd recognise it 😄 I couldn't agree more - my jaw dropped during the entire drive into the National Park itself. Stunning turquoise waters with huge imposing snow covered peaks glistening in the sun. Truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. I do need to go back, but with a campervan next time!
Hope you get a chance to visit there again Valerie. It's also not too far from Lake Tekapo, so if weather is bad at the one, you can try check out the other, for slightly different conditions. A campervan looks like fun, just not cheap!
Great to see an option that might work well for us girls! I struggle to find something that works for a short stature, small frame. Light, easy access to the gear on the go etc. I've settled for now on an ordinary back pack and make use of an Instinct bag. I can use it like a bum bag on the front and have easy access, it sits comfortably, and then go light on the back with food, warm clothing and safety extras just in case. I tried a different back pack but it is just too big and heavy for some of the walking I do. The Shimodo one looks a great option.
Hi Denise, I'm in the same boat as you - short and petite 🙂 Makes it challenging to find a bag that's a comfortable fit and doesn't engulf us! I do think it's really great that there's now a range of bags which are designed specifically to focus on the female form and needs. It sounds like your Instinct bag is a versatile option that has your needs covered at the moment, which is what matters 👍 How interesting that you can use it as a bum bag?!
@@ValerieMisaPhotography I was excited when you said the bag was the female form. Finally!!!!! And yes I do find the Instinct one works well. I’m able to pull the camera out easily on the go, change lenses, and keep things protected if it gets wet. Can’t take a huge amount in it, but then I don’t have or take much gear anyway. You can use it as a sling or bum bag. Enjoy using the shimodo bag! Great to see.
My partner is petite @ 147cm/4'10" with 66cm/26" waist. Shimoda Explore v2 25L women version barely fits with all straps/waistbelt cinched down to the max. Short/petite is a rough world to gear up without lots of compromises.
Great detailed review Valerie 😊 The Shimoda bag looks like a quality bag and you sold me if it fits a Picnic Bar 😅😅 You're a great ambassador for their brand. All the best !
Many thanks for your kind comments Colin 🙏 Shimoda do make quality and well-designed bags, and I like that they don't look bad either! I couldn't wait to wrap up filming so that I could chomp down on that Picnic - my fave 😉 I'm looking forward to sitting down this weekend and watching your new vid - looks like it'll be a great one! Have a great weekend Colin 👍
Thank you, Valerie for the review. Did you compare it to the 30L? Is the 40L too large for someone who is 170cm? Let us know how comfortable the 40L Action X2 is during hot summer days.
Hello, thanks for watching and your comments 🙏 No, unfortunately I don't have the 30L to compare it to. But I can say as a petite 160cm, the 40L (and also the 50L) is not big for me at all, so I don't think it'll be big for you 🙂 I've worn it on a few warm days (not yet on really hot days) and it is quite breathable, comfortable and hasn't left me with a wet back and shoulders. Hopefully that helps! Cheers 👍
Hi there, I believe there are mesh shoulder straps and belt available in the men's version, but I'm not sure about the back panel. I have a few links in the description below 👇 which might give you your answer. Also, @ShimodaDesigns has released a number of product launch videos which hopefully helps - recommend you check them out! Let me know if you don't get your answer and I can check further for you 👍
Very thoughtful video. For a frame of reference, how tall are you? Do you reckon that the 40L will be suitable as a carry-on bag for international travel? Trying to decide between the 30L or 40L...
Hi and many thanks for your comments 🙏 I'm a tiny 158cm (5'3" I think). But I've taken my 50L as carry-on baggage on many domestic and international flights and have been able to store it in the overhead lockers without any issues. I really think 40L is the sweet spot to give you enough storage space for your gear and a few other things for day to day wear. I think you'll find 30L a little small. There's link to Shimoda's YT video in the vid description 👇 (Shimoda's Designer talks about 10 new features) and I think Ian Millar (founder and designer) days he thinks 40L will be the most requested size. Good luck with your purchase - I don't think you'll be disappointed! 👍
Hi there, I can definitely say that it's much cooler than my Action X50. My most recent hike was over 10kms, and about 5hrs long on a fairly warm 25 deg (Celcius) day. While I did have a damp back, shoulders and waistline, I know I would have been close to soaking wet with my previous bag. The breathable mesh also allowed the sweat to evaporate more quickly, so that made my back cooler, and the hike was a lot more comfortable otherwise. Big fan of the mesh! 😊👍
@@ValerieMisaPhotography thanks for updating! Good to hear it helps. Now it makes choosing between a traditional hiking pack with trampoline style mesh panel vs Shimoda foam mesh a bit harder.
That's right Carl, they don't. I'm not sure why. The mesh has made a huge difference for me. But unless you're Sweaty Betty like me, it may not be a big disadvantage?
@@ValerieMisaPhotography I get sweaty too which is why i moved to Osprey backpacks. I saw a comment from Ian the owner of Shimoda on a video stating they don't use the air mesh on the Action X series as it's not as tough as the fabric used on the men's Action X. But that hasn't been a problem for Osprey / Lowe Alpine etc etc over the last 10 years or more.
Very nice review Valerie. I just picked up the x50 version 1 on sale. The issue you mentioned about sweaty back seems concerning to me, and I hadn't seen any other reviewers mention that prior to purchasing, maybe you hike farther distances than them though :) Hopefully it won't be that bad. Regardless I can already tell its a much better camera pack than anything I have ever owned. Hope you enjoy your V2 :)
Thanks a lot for your comments Josh 🙏 Glad to hear you've picked up the Action X50 for a good deal - gotta love getting quality for a steal! I haven't heard many people experiencing my issue - I'm probably just a bit of a sweaty oddball 😅 and I think you'll be fine. It is a great quality build and design, and I hope you have many awesome adventures with it! 👍📸
Hallo. Ich denke wir werden alle ins schwitzen kommen bei den Bergen und dem Equipment. 😅 Das Nylon Material ist robuster als das AirMesh. Vielleicht schmitzt man etwas weniger damit, aber ohne schwitzen wird es nicht gehen. Ich finde das Nylon Material schöner, weil robuster und der Schnee und Frost sich nicht darin verfangen kann. Zum Glück bietet Shimoda beide Stoffe an. Es ist einfacher ein Wechselshirt dabei zu haben, als sich einen neuen Rucksack zu kaufen.
Hi Tomas, I think they do have shoulder straps and belt available with air mesh, as I've seen product brochures and videos showing it. As for air mesh on the back panel, I think that's only in the X70. I can double check for you 👍
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Hi Valerie, had a chat with Shimoda today and they said that the air mesh is only part of the women's series. This is really sad I think, because the rear panel on the Explore V2 with air mesh is much better than the actual one on the Action X.
@@sebastianraabe4388 that's unfortunate Tomas. I think maybe because the Laminate Jersey material is more rigid and tougher than the air mesh panel, it was considered better suited for the Action X range? That's a pro I guess. I hope you find the right bag for you 👍
Thanks Zak 🙏 I'm not sure, but think maybe the Shimoda team felt that it was a color many women would love (and they're not wrong!) But I can definitely see the appeal of this color across genders 👍
Hi there 🙂 I think if you wanted to put your tripod inside the bag, you'd have to take out the camera unit/cube, otherwise you'd have to try and wedge it in diagonally. Either way, it'll probably be a tight fit. I suppose a thief could always just take your whole bag? 🤷
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Yes, of course, by removing the cube from the bag. I just wanted to know if putting a tripod in the large pocket would not be obstructed, as there should be a separation between the main pocket and the one above. I'd like to place my two light tripods + my camera tripod on the right, for example, and my lights and camera on the left. But the length was a concern. Regarding thieves, if the tripod is inside the bag, a thief wouldn't know if it's photographic equipment or not, whereas seeing a tripod might spark some bad ideas. I'm right in Paris, so it's not very reassuring here tbh 😅
Hi there, what do you mean by harder? Do you mean it is more rigid/stiff and provides more support? If so, I think they're both the same, but I find that the back pushing on the version 2 is slightly different and more comfortable. Both are great bags though! 🙂👍
@@gerlomix.r oh, sorry I misunderstood. Unfortunately, I don't have the weight of the version 1 to compare. 40L V2 starter kit is approx. 2.7kg/6 lbs, which I think is about the same.
@@merczedes really appreciate your comment, I was going to say the same thing 🙂 Many thanks for watching the video and noting my previous experience with the Shimoda Action X50 🙏👍
I understand why you might make that comment, but as noted by another viewer below and mentioned in my video, I was a big fan of Shimoda before I tried and reviewed this bag. So in that sense it was perhaps biased, but validly so based on my previous personal experience. It is also a hands on, first impressions video, and with my previous bag, I didn't hold back on what I didn't like or could be improved after use over a year. But, I don't know anyone who's had a Shimoda bag and didn't like it - the quality and reputation speaks for itself.
Valerie, you’re a star‼️A magic bag by the looks, great review…✌️🌻
😄 You're too kind Markie! 🙏 Maybe I'll find lots of magic 🫘🫛 in that bag?! Stay well 🙂
Nice! I ordered mine last night and wanted to watch a quick video to see what I’m going to get. Thanks for making this!
Thanks Drew and glad to hear that you found the video helpful 🙏 I don't think you'll be disappointed with your new purchase - enjoy it and have fun out there! 🙂📸
Hey Valerie.
Manesh here. Love this video and Shimoda for me make the best bags. I have the explore v2 bag and it’s made for landscape photographers. An amazing bag and Shimoda really think and are innovative.
Hi Manesh, I've been curious about the Explore V2 - it's great if you just want to travel light. It fits all your gear comfortably? Agree with you 100% there - quality things are worth investing in 🙂 Thanks as always for watching and your comments 🙏
Looks like a good bag! That's the main thing, that you have a bag that is both practical and comfortable. Nothing worse than carrying a bag that just doesn't feel good on your back and doesn't carry everything you need. I have two K&F Concept bags that suit me fine. One I use for my dedicated large format bag, with my 4x5 camera and all the lenses and bits n pieces. Though, if I were to buy a dedicated long hiking camera bag, I would probably get something similar to the Shimoda or like my old army backpack, which could pack in over 100L of stuff!! That bag was a monster, probably overkill, really. Especially for a camera bag!!😊
Thanks for your comments 🙏 and couldn't agree with you more there Carl about comfort and practicality! Yes, only buy what you need and if your current bags are doing the job for you, that's great 👍 Sounds like your 100L is overkill though 😄 Goodness, can you even move with that bag full and strapped to your back?! Hope you have a great weekend.
4:08 For some reason Shimoda Action X V2 regular version sti has the old back design. I don't have no idea why. Shimoda mentioned durability being a reason when talking about Explore v2vs Action v2. But why did the women's version get it then? After having airy Evoc backpack I don't want to return to a sweaty backpack. But Shimoda is so appealing to me in other ways. I'm interested in the X40 V2. Are there other differences? Maybe I should get the women's version? see if the straps work for me if not change to regular straps.
As a mountain biker I experienced the same thing before on different backpacks, so I need something breathable. This is one of the reasons I keep using y Evoc Explorer 30L backpack, despite it not being suitable for photography, camera gear, I made it work with DIY solutions. But my back stays cool. And even Evoc's backpack range is mix between new back cooling and warmer one, only 25L photography backpack from them has it. But I really sohuld get a photography backpack. Shimoda is on top of the list, but the back thing is a no-no for me. so it seems like no backpack for me exists so far, but maybe the women's model would work for me.
Great review Val, love how they improved the back for better ventilation. Good information and opinion delivered well. Lol sneaky Picnic there 😂
Thanks Pia 🙏 I think I don't need to worry anymore about packing all those extra tees to change 😅 And I couldn't wait to finish filming so that I could smash down that Picnic!
Thanks for a lovely review, Valerie. An excellent tip re the phone pocket: I like a gigantaphone too, and in future I'll make sure to check any phone pocket for size. You went into it in wonderful depth and I must say, the backpack looked like a great fit on you, and seemed spacious enough. If you need more volume, I expect you have your larger Shimoda. Though I have an f-stop (Ajna), I think the Shimoda backpacks are better - more thought seems to have gone into them, and the quality looks to be better too, for much the same price. Since Izzy Abuleela mentioned hunters in a forest where he was searching for mushrooms, I've been thinking a really bright colour is a good idea: people + guns doesn't always = common sense.
Really appreciate your comments and support Mick 🙏 and good to know you're a fellow gigantaphone owner who's probably always looking for things with big pockets 😄 I sometimes felt my old 50L bag engulfed me, and think the 40L is a great fit for my size. I was looking at the Anja at one stage - it is a great bag. You're right, there are fine differences in the quality of materials and design and I'm a Shimoda fangirl! As long as your bag's comfortable and does the job for you, you're good to go. Take care Mick 🙂👍
Nicely done review Valerie. Awesome to see you diversifying the content you’re producing. Loved seeing that curious bird from a previous episode make a cameo 😂
Thanks Shaun 🙏 Yes, I think it's a natural progression and having a few different playlists on my channel was always in the cards. As you might know, I love birds and that Kea left an impression (literally and figuratively speaking)!
I'm really loving my new Shimoda Action X V2 bag from the Women's Collection. Great review. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for your comments Patricia 🙏 and fantastic to hear that you're loving your Action X V2 - it's hard not to love it! 😊👍📸
I just received my Action X40 V2 in black (the yellow and the women's versions weren't available and I need it soon) and it doesn't have the mesh back and straps. The women's tech straps that came with it were the old version, too, so without the mesh and with different pockets.
No problem for me, have the straps on my Explore 30 V2 and love them, and I like that the non-mesh back and straps don't collect dirt and plant seeds (which is great when you travel to places where you have to be careful about not bringing foreign species with you).
The Explore 30 V2 has been the best and most comfortable photography bag I ever had, and I think I will love the Action X40 V2 just as much!
Hi Sabrina, great to hear that you've received your Action X40 V2! You make some good points about the mesh that I hadn't previously thought about. There are definitely some pros to the laminate Jersey material and I think you'll love this new bag just as much as your Explore V2. Hard to go wrong with Shimoda! Thanks for your comments and happy adventures out there! 🙏😀👍📸
That’s a very comprehensive review, Valerie! I’ve had about 8 or 9 different bags, but so far, none have worked as well as my large Lowe Pro. I haven’t tried Shimoda though…
Thanks Peter 🙏 I think if you're curious, you should definitely have a look at their new range. Don't need to tell you that I ❤️ Shimoda 😄, but that's because I think they're excellent quality, innovative in their designs and offer lots of customisable options. You've been through 8-9 bags?!!
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Yes, ma’m. The most recent deviation was the F-Stop brand. Even their largest one still wasn’t large enough! The trouble now is, the Mavic 3 Pro, with extra batteries and controller, takes up so much space. I love the rear opening bags like the Shimoda and F-Stop, but accessing everything with the largest module inside is kinda fiddly because only 2/3 of the rear opens.
😅 sounds like it has been all about trial and error for you! Yes, I can imagine the Mavic 3 Pro and all its accessories needing probably 3/4 of the space! I understand the Action X70 comes with modular inserts that means you can now access from the back and top - designed for big long lenses - and maybe your drone! I don't know if that might help? 🤷
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Story of my life!!
Great review Valerie! Really detailed. I have an Atlas Athlete which is great but already banged up now 😁 been hearing a lot about Shimoda and loads of photographers I follow use ‘em, might be something I’ll look into.
Many thanks for your comments 🙏 Yes, I've noticed the same - I was introduced to the brand after seeing some of my favourite creators tout it. And I really believe rightly so 🙂 Each to their own, do your own research, but IMO Shimoda is leading the way with quality and innovation, and their bags actually look good too 😉 Good luck with your upgrade! 👍
Hi Valerie, is 3:18 close to the start of the Hooker Valley track in NZ? Must be one of the most "wow moment" walks per every 100 metres I've seen..
Yes, it was the start of the Hooker Valley track Pieter! Of course you'd recognise it 😄 I couldn't agree more - my jaw dropped during the entire drive into the National Park itself. Stunning turquoise waters with huge imposing snow covered peaks glistening in the sun. Truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. I do need to go back, but with a campervan next time!
Hope you get a chance to visit there again Valerie. It's also not too far from Lake Tekapo, so if weather is bad at the one, you can try check out the other, for slightly different conditions. A campervan looks like fun, just not cheap!
@@photonspark for sure, I'll be back...one day! I hope the same goes for you 😊
Definitely 😊🙏
Great to see an option that might work well for us girls! I struggle to find something that works for a short stature, small frame. Light, easy access to the gear on the go etc. I've settled for now on an ordinary back pack and make use of an Instinct bag. I can use it like a bum bag on the front and have easy access, it sits comfortably, and then go light on the back with food, warm clothing and safety extras just in case. I tried a different back pack but it is just too big and heavy for some of the walking I do. The Shimodo one looks a great option.
Hi Denise, I'm in the same boat as you - short and petite 🙂 Makes it challenging to find a bag that's a comfortable fit and doesn't engulf us! I do think it's really great that there's now a range of bags which are designed specifically to focus on the female form and needs. It sounds like your Instinct bag is a versatile option that has your needs covered at the moment, which is what matters 👍 How interesting that you can use it as a bum bag?!
@@ValerieMisaPhotography I was excited when you said the bag was the female form. Finally!!!!! And yes I do find the Instinct one works well. I’m able to pull the camera out easily on the go, change lenses, and keep things protected if it gets wet. Can’t take a huge amount in it, but then I don’t have or take much gear anyway. You can use it as a sling or bum bag. Enjoy using the shimodo bag! Great to see.
Easy and efficient. That's what we need out there! Have a great week ahead Denise 🙂
My partner is petite @ 147cm/4'10" with 66cm/26" waist. Shimoda Explore v2 25L women version barely fits with all straps/waistbelt cinched down to the max. Short/petite is a rough world to gear up without lots of compromises.
Great detailed review Valerie 😊 The Shimoda bag looks like a quality bag and you sold me if it fits a Picnic Bar 😅😅
You're a great ambassador for their brand.
All the best !
Many thanks for your kind comments Colin 🙏 Shimoda do make quality and well-designed bags, and I like that they don't look bad either! I couldn't wait to wrap up filming so that I could chomp down on that Picnic - my fave 😉 I'm looking forward to sitting down this weekend and watching your new vid - looks like it'll be a great one! Have a great weekend Colin 👍
Cool bag Valerie along with a great review!
Tyvm Jon 😊🙏👍
Well done - thanks for this great review!
Many thanks for your comment and I'm glad you enjoyed it 🙏🙂
Amazing review, probably the best out there! Thank you it helped me on my decision
Many thanks for your feedback and I'm glad to hear that the video was helpful for your decision-making - that was my hope! 🙏🙂📸 Cheers.
Thank you, Valerie for the review. Did you compare it to the 30L? Is the 40L too large for someone who is 170cm? Let us know how comfortable the 40L Action X2 is during hot summer days.
Hello, thanks for watching and your comments 🙏 No, unfortunately I don't have the 30L to compare it to. But I can say as a petite 160cm, the 40L (and also the 50L) is not big for me at all, so I don't think it'll be big for you 🙂 I've worn it on a few warm days (not yet on really hot days) and it is quite breathable, comfortable and hasn't left me with a wet back and shoulders. Hopefully that helps! Cheers 👍
Is there a men's version with the mesh backing?
Hi there, I believe there are mesh shoulder straps and belt available in the men's version, but I'm not sure about the back panel. I have a few links in the description below 👇 which might give you your answer. Also, @ShimodaDesigns has released a number of product launch videos which hopefully helps - recommend you check them out! Let me know if you don't get your answer and I can check further for you 👍
Very thoughtful video. For a frame of reference, how tall are you? Do you reckon that the 40L will be suitable as a carry-on bag for international travel? Trying to decide between the 30L or 40L...
Hi and many thanks for your comments 🙏 I'm a tiny 158cm (5'3" I think). But I've taken my 50L as carry-on baggage on many domestic and international flights and have been able to store it in the overhead lockers without any issues. I really think 40L is the sweet spot to give you enough storage space for your gear and a few other things for day to day wear. I think you'll find 30L a little small. There's link to Shimoda's YT video in the vid description 👇 (Shimoda's Designer talks about 10 new features) and I think Ian Millar (founder and designer) days he thinks 40L will be the most requested size. Good luck with your purchase - I don't think you'll be disappointed! 👍
Any update on how well the new mesh panel helps with your sweating?
Hi there, I can definitely say that it's much cooler than my Action X50. My most recent hike was over 10kms, and about 5hrs long on a fairly warm 25 deg (Celcius) day. While I did have a damp back, shoulders and waistline, I know I would have been close to soaking wet with my previous bag. The breathable mesh also allowed the sweat to evaporate more quickly, so that made my back cooler, and the hike was a lot more comfortable otherwise. Big fan of the mesh! 😊👍
@@ValerieMisaPhotography thanks for updating! Good to hear it helps. Now it makes choosing between a traditional hiking pack with trampoline style mesh panel vs Shimoda foam mesh a bit harder.
@@Battlem0nk it's always an evaluation of pros vs cons! Good luck and enjoy 👍🙂
I was seriously considering one of these, but the mens versions don't have the padded air mesh on the back/ straps. 😐
That's right Carl, they don't. I'm not sure why. The mesh has made a huge difference for me. But unless you're Sweaty Betty like me, it may not be a big disadvantage?
@@ValerieMisaPhotography I get sweaty too which is why i moved to Osprey backpacks. I saw a comment from Ian the owner of Shimoda on a video stating they don't use the air mesh on the Action X series as it's not as tough as the fabric used on the men's Action X. But that hasn't been a problem for Osprey / Lowe Alpine etc etc over the last 10 years or more.
Very nice review Valerie. I just picked up the x50 version 1 on sale. The issue you mentioned about sweaty back seems concerning to me, and I hadn't seen any other reviewers mention that prior to purchasing, maybe you hike farther distances than them though :) Hopefully it won't be that bad. Regardless I can already tell its a much better camera pack than anything I have ever owned. Hope you enjoy your V2 :)
Thanks a lot for your comments Josh 🙏 Glad to hear you've picked up the Action X50 for a good deal - gotta love getting quality for a steal! I haven't heard many people experiencing my issue - I'm probably just a bit of a sweaty oddball 😅 and I think you'll be fine. It is a great quality build and design, and I hope you have many awesome adventures with it! 👍📸
Hallo. Ich denke wir werden alle ins schwitzen kommen bei den Bergen und dem Equipment. 😅 Das Nylon Material ist robuster als das AirMesh. Vielleicht schmitzt man etwas weniger damit, aber ohne schwitzen wird es nicht gehen. Ich finde das Nylon Material schöner, weil robuster und der Schnee und Frost sich nicht darin verfangen kann. Zum Glück bietet Shimoda beide Stoffe an. Es ist einfacher ein Wechselshirt dabei zu haben, als sich einen neuen Rucksack zu kaufen.
Does airmesh provided on V2 only for woman versions?
cause I don't see it on yellow version and on Shimoda YT channel there no word about that 😢
Hi Tomas, I think they do have shoulder straps and belt available with air mesh, as I've seen product brochures and videos showing it. As for air mesh on the back panel, I think that's only in the X70. I can double check for you 👍
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Hi Valerie, had a chat with Shimoda today and they said that the air mesh is only part of the women's series. This is really sad I think, because the rear panel on the Explore V2 with air mesh is much better than the actual one on the Action X.
@@sebastianraabe4388 that's unfortunate Tomas. I think maybe because the Laminate Jersey material is more rigid and tougher than the air mesh panel, it was considered better suited for the Action X range? That's a pro I guess. I hope you find the right bag for you 👍
Nice review, thanks. Why is the teal colour only for women? 😕
Thanks Zak 🙏 I'm not sure, but think maybe the Shimoda team felt that it was a color many women would love (and they're not wrong!) But I can definitely see the appeal of this color across genders 👍
Can we put a tripod in the bag & not outside? It works if its like 50/60cm long ? I prefer to avoid steals.
Hi there 🙂 I think if you wanted to put your tripod inside the bag, you'd have to take out the camera unit/cube, otherwise you'd have to try and wedge it in diagonally. Either way, it'll probably be a tight fit. I suppose a thief could always just take your whole bag? 🤷
@@ValerieMisaPhotography Yes, of course, by removing the cube from the bag. I just wanted to know if putting a tripod in the large pocket would not be obstructed, as there should be a separation between the main pocket and the one above. I'd like to place my two light tripods + my camera tripod on the right, for example, and my lights and camera on the left. But the length was a concern.
Regarding thieves, if the tripod is inside the bag, a thief wouldn't know if it's photographic equipment or not, whereas seeing a tripod might spark some bad ideas. I'm right in Paris, so it's not very reassuring here tbh 😅
@@flexflex5853 The top compartment pouch which divides the bag can be removed entirely via a zipper.
Lucky you!
Thank you, yes, I'm fortunate and grateful 🙏🙂
Kannst du bitte vergleichen, ob du die Version 2 schwerer findest als die Version 1?!
Hi there, what do you mean by harder? Do you mean it is more rigid/stiff and provides more support? If so, I think they're both the same, but I find that the back pushing on the version 2 is slightly different and more comfortable. Both are great bags though! 🙂👍
@@ValerieMisaPhotography
I mean the weight! Does version 2 weigh more than version 1?
@@gerlomix.r oh, sorry I misunderstood. Unfortunately, I don't have the weight of the version 1 to compare. 40L V2 starter kit is approx. 2.7kg/6 lbs, which I think is about the same.
great video and you are absolutly charming
@@chrisdan8139 many thanks Chris, appreciate your kind words and support 🙏😊
Review of a free bag cannot be unbiased and neutral.
Valerie used the previous version she bought for her own money and was clearly happy about it so I don’t really see any bias here
@@merczedes really appreciate your comment, I was going to say the same thing 🙂 Many thanks for watching the video and noting my previous experience with the Shimoda Action X50 🙏👍
I understand why you might make that comment, but as noted by another viewer below and mentioned in my video, I was a big fan of Shimoda before I tried and reviewed this bag. So in that sense it was perhaps biased, but validly so based on my previous personal experience. It is also a hands on, first impressions video, and with my previous bag, I didn't hold back on what I didn't like or could be improved after use over a year. But, I don't know anyone who's had a Shimoda bag and didn't like it - the quality and reputation speaks for itself.