The 30L version is the best imo. The 25L has a 3.5lbs weight, 30L has a 3.6lbs weight but the 35L goes to 4.4lbs which isn't justified imo. I love that the internal color isnt black or gray. Great review as always
I might actually overlook a few details I'm not thrilled with now because of the access on the right side. It's the side I got comfortable with on the PD Everyday bag and using other bags with it on the left has been frustrating to me... to each their own. Thanks for making this so clear; I recently started looking at the Shimoda bags and hadn't noticed this yet.
btw, which straps did you order? Just the simple, or the simple petite. They do look like regular straps, and that might work well for my needs with this bag.
Thanks for the review, this is the first video I see that actually mentions the cons of the bag, sure it's puzzling that it has its side access on the wrong side of the bag.
It's not "wrong", it's a specific design choice for a specific reason. That's like saying the 25 Liter is wrong because it can't fit a 17" laptop. I've only seen one review that thinks it's bad. (He's doing it wrong).
@@majamidzor3801 those pockets sure are nice! But for example, the peak design is dual side access, BUT it also has an interior side pocket in the flap on both sides which makes it useful. So I feel like they can still integrate a pocket within the flap. anyways, im posting a new video about this side access stuff on Friday =)
Excellent Video! I appreciate your descriptions of the good and not so good characteristics of the bag. I’m definitely leaning towards purchasing this bag in a couple of months. Thank you!
Completely agree with the cons you listed on this video. I was hoping the 25L would be the perfect bag since the 20L Peak Design EDB is too small for my gear and the 31L Wandrd Prvke is too large, unfortunately the boneheaded decision to limit the 25L to a 13in laptop just killed any interest I had in the bag. I also agree about the opening placement, it should swing to where your right hand can grab the grip and already have your finger on the shutter button as you are pulling it out- anything else might make sense in "theory" land but feels very unnatural in real world use for a right handed person.
The reasoning for the keychain leash being short and in a hard to get to place is because this was designed as an adventure / travel bag, so you attach your keys there for the entirety of the adventure and they're out of the way, but you know where they are when you get back.
I just purchased and received this bag. Thanks for the recommendation! It's replacing my peak design everyday bag because I need more comfortable straps when carrying my gear.
Thanks for your superb review of this Shimoda Explore V2 30L backpack! I am considering it for my Nikon Z system. So, can the water bottle pouch handle a lens such as a24-120 f/4? I’m thinking it might be handy for a quick lens change without having to go into the backpack.
I have tried both Peak Design (which opens from the right side) and Wandrd Prvke (which opens form the left side), and in my opinion, the right side opening makes more sense and feels less awkward than the left side opening. (I am not a leftie)
Hi! I’m also considering to buy the woman strap because the original strap looks to overkill for me. In your video, do you take out the other sternum strap? Because I only see one In the Shimoda website, theres 2 sternum strap on it
Iʻm trying to decide between the Shimoda backpack and the PGYTech Onemo 30L backpack. What are your thoughts? I need a bag to carry my Canon R6, 24-70 and 70-200mm lenses and assorted accessories while traveling (city walks in Europe) and especially meet the airlines requirements for carry on. Your comments would be really appreciated.
Hey hey, yes i watched that video! Yes it can be faster definitely, however I NATURALLY carry my bag on my left shoulder. So for me, when I swing it to the right, it feels unnatural to me and tends to slip off! I'll have to get more use to it, but yeah just doesnt feel right to me.
As others have pointed out, the right side access is very intentional. But there is a bigger problem with the side access, and that is that the metal frame prohibits any camera or gear that is even just a tiny bit bigger than the opening from passing through. For this reason I had to sell my 30L and get the 35L because of the bigger opening. I like the extra space but it is a big bag
I've been wondering about the side access clearance. What camera do you use, and do you have any additional accessories adding to the problem (L-bracket, ARCA mount, etc.)?
This video from Shimoda's RUclips channel explains why Shimoda backpacks have their quick access on the right side: ruclips.net/video/qBb3mM0viNo/видео.html
I think exactly the same about this ridiculous straps. I got "women" straps for free at kickstarter sale One more thing... this bag feels bulky for only 30l bag
The bags are nice but I replaced the shimoda camera insert with the F stop inserts. I have more room and I feel my gear is better protected. I just don’t like how hard and non-padded the inserts feel.
I have seen a ton of videos on this bag... finally someone that said something bad to potentially be aware of.. Ya the side access seems to be a bit of an oversight I guess or maybe designed by some that is left handed... lol I have also been looking at the straps thinking the same thing as you, bit to wide and pockets maybe not great for all applications. Good recco on the different straps as an option... Good video.. thx
Probably best use this for outdoor explorer, not for city EDC. I got a peak design bag and a boundary supply bag for city travel. I'm buying this in army green with large camera cube for my upcoming trip to Sri Lanka. Planning to carry my Sony a7iii with 40mm prime, 70-200mm and 100-400mm lenses with me.
Hello! I am looking for a backpack to do mostly city tourism (lots of walking) and carry with me on flights (personal item and/or carry-on item) and protect my camera, lenses, tablet and sometimes, laptop. I only take with me 3 lenses (on the smaller side, 100, 24 and 50) and one dsrl full frame body. I would like some space to have a small jacket and some snacks and personal stuff. I was thinking about going for the shimoda explorer or the wandrd prvke, would any of those be better for that usage? Any other recommendations? The Everyday PD is way too inconfortable for me and the big side access does not feel secure enough for crowded cities :(
can you feet the 15-35 standing up? I order the 35 but i feel is way to big, the only concern i have is that i like to have my lenses standing up i have the 15-35 and the 70-200 there about the same size.
Is it really that big? I’m about 5’3 and 105 lbs.. I’m undecided between the 30L and the 25L... I don’t want the backpack to look bigger than me 😆 love this review, thank you
January 2022 shipping for the backpack alone and May 2022 shipments for the Starter Kits? They need to fix their ordering and production logistics. Why have them for order when we can't even have them until next year?!?
WANDRD cubes are way too thick (which is a huge waste of space) and feel kind of cheap, IMO. I've always liked the way Peak Design's are, and Shimoda's seem much more in line with those, but I think the frame to them will be a big plus. WANDRD also flexes a lot and gives me problems when using the side access, and the thick handle on the top interferes with the internal divider (which has to be up or things slip behind the cube). I have the PRVKE 31 and am definitely changing to the Shimoda; just not sure about the size yet.
You're right about the E25 bag - I have it (and a 13" MB Air), and it IS the perfect day carry bag, o man. I'm loving it. I have two other Shimoda bags, one is the Action x30, and I didn't know if the E25 was really going to be all that different, but man, it is! And I think nothing of having my photo gear w/ me at any time - and for that it's the deal maker. The Action x30 and 50 are better suited as adventure bags, and this one is just the greatest day carry for me. O YEAH - one more thing - you forgot to show that, new to these E v2 bags is the handle on the back bottom, for an easy pick w/ the top handle when you've been accessing your camera gear and need to move it any distance.
thanks for ur input! yeah im likely going to get the E25 version once it becomes more readily available =) And yeah i forgot to mention the bottom handle part. But I did show a shot of me using it in this vid!
Haha the PM bag is trash. It starts at 5.6 lbs. Gets dirty reaaally easily, cant hold out against the rain and is overpriced. If you want a backpack that screams "steal me", thats the PM backpack Also try their warranty support, it sucks. Peak Design and ThinkTank has better warranty support. Sold mine after begging support to get it fixed. Got the Shimoda and it is way better
Thanks! a lot of people linked this video to me, so I made a new video comparing left vs right side access. There is NO difference in time. Its more of a matter of what ur natural way of swinging the bag is
The 30L version is the best imo. The 25L has a 3.5lbs weight, 30L has a 3.6lbs weight but the 35L goes to 4.4lbs which isn't justified imo.
I love that the internal color isnt black or gray. Great review as always
I might actually overlook a few details I'm not thrilled with now because of the access on the right side. It's the side I got comfortable with on the PD Everyday bag and using other bags with it on the left has been frustrating to me... to each their own. Thanks for making this so clear; I recently started looking at the Shimoda bags and hadn't noticed this yet.
btw, which straps did you order? Just the simple, or the simple petite. They do look like regular straps, and that might work well for my needs with this bag.
Thanks for the review, this is the first video I see that actually mentions the cons of the bag, sure it's puzzling that it has its side access on the wrong side of the bag.
It's not "wrong", it's a specific design choice for a specific reason. That's like saying the 25 Liter is wrong because it can't fit a 17" laptop. I've only seen one review that thinks it's bad. (He's doing it wrong).
@@fast1bike it would have been better if they made it dual side access like think tank urban access or even all of the peak design bags!
@@majamidzor3801 those pockets sure are nice! But for example, the peak design is dual side access, BUT it also has an interior side pocket in the flap on both sides which makes it useful. So I feel like they can still integrate a pocket within the flap. anyways, im posting a new video about this side access stuff on Friday =)
I have the Shimoda E30, and it is fantastic. Apart it is the most comfortable backpack I have ever had and tried.
=)
Excellent Video! I appreciate your descriptions of the good and not so good characteristics of the bag. I’m definitely leaning towards purchasing this bag in a couple of months. Thank you!
Completely agree with the cons you listed on this video. I was hoping the 25L would be the perfect bag since the 20L Peak Design EDB is too small for my gear and the 31L Wandrd Prvke is too large, unfortunately the boneheaded decision to limit the 25L to a 13in laptop just killed any interest I had in the bag. I also agree about the opening placement, it should swing to where your right hand can grab the grip and already have your finger on the shutter button as you are pulling it out- anything else might make sense in "theory" land but feels very unnatural in real world use for a right handed person.
a 15 inch macbook pro fits easily in the 25L you can watch this guy fit it with relative ease. ruclips.net/video/8PIdDPojSpc/видео.html
About the side quick access, you can grab the camera by right hand.
true, it just feels awkward for me though!
Bag looks amazing in person Desy! Nice review
thanks!
The reasoning for the keychain leash being short and in a hard to get to place is because this was designed as an adventure / travel bag, so you attach your keys there for the entirety of the adventure and they're out of the way, but you know where they are when you get back.
good to know thanks!
I just purchased and received this bag. Thanks for the recommendation! It's replacing my peak design everyday bag because I need more comfortable straps when carrying my gear.
Thanks for your superb review of this Shimoda Explore V2 30L backpack! I am considering it for my Nikon Z system. So, can the water bottle pouch handle a lens such as a24-120 f/4? I’m thinking it might be handy for a quick lens change without having to go into the backpack.
I have tried both Peak Design (which opens from the right side) and Wandrd Prvke (which opens form the left side), and in my opinion, the right side opening makes more sense and feels less awkward than the left side opening. (I am not a leftie)
Proper real world review. Thanks.
your welcome!
Great review but the problem with the perfect backpack is that might be perfect for you but not for someone else right.
agreed!
Hi!
I’m also considering to buy the woman strap because the original strap looks to overkill for me.
In your video, do you take out the other sternum strap? Because I only see one
In the Shimoda website, theres 2 sternum strap on it
Iʻm trying to decide between the Shimoda backpack and the PGYTech Onemo 30L backpack. What are your thoughts? I need a bag to carry my Canon R6, 24-70 and 70-200mm lenses and assorted accessories while traveling (city walks in Europe) and especially meet the airlines requirements for carry on. Your comments would be really appreciated.
Right or Left Side Access - Which is Better?
ruclips.net/video/qBb3mM0viNo/видео.html
Hey hey, yes i watched that video! Yes it can be faster definitely, however I NATURALLY carry my bag on my left shoulder. So for me, when I swing it to the right, it feels unnatural to me and tends to slip off! I'll have to get more use to it, but yeah just doesnt feel right to me.
ruclips.net/video/JKETsRNqjkc/видео.html I just did a test, its almost the same amount of time
As others have pointed out, the right side access is very intentional. But there is a bigger problem with the side access, and that is that the metal frame prohibits any camera or gear that is even just a tiny bit bigger than the opening from passing through. For this reason I had to sell my 30L and get the 35L because of the bigger opening. I like the extra space but it is a big bag
good to know thank you!
made a reply video to this! ruclips.net/video/JKETsRNqjkc/видео.html
I've been wondering about the side access clearance. What camera do you use, and do you have any additional accessories adding to the problem (L-bracket, ARCA mount, etc.)?
This video from Shimoda's RUclips channel explains why Shimoda backpacks have their quick access on the right side: ruclips.net/video/qBb3mM0viNo/видео.html
I think exactly the same about this ridiculous straps. I got "women" straps for free at kickstarter sale
One more thing... this bag feels bulky for only 30l bag
my new fave camera backpack of 2022 is the tenba axis V2 24L
The bags are nice but I replaced the shimoda camera insert with the F stop inserts. I have more room and I feel my gear is better protected. I just don’t like how hard and non-padded the inserts feel.
thank u for the recommendation!
I have seen a ton of videos on this bag... finally someone that said something bad to potentially be aware of.. Ya the side access seems to be a bit of an oversight I guess or maybe designed by some that is left handed... lol I have also been looking at the straps thinking the same thing as you, bit to wide and pockets maybe not great for all applications. Good recco on the different straps as an option... Good video.. thx
Great review
Thanks Andy!
This is very honest opinion.
Probably best use this for outdoor explorer, not for city EDC. I got a peak design bag and a boundary supply bag for city travel. I'm buying this in army green with large camera cube for my upcoming trip to Sri Lanka. Planning to carry my Sony a7iii with 40mm prime, 70-200mm and 100-400mm lenses with me.
nice! love the green!!
Hello! I am looking for a backpack to do mostly city tourism (lots of walking) and carry with me on flights (personal item and/or carry-on item) and protect my camera, lenses, tablet and sometimes, laptop.
I only take with me 3 lenses (on the smaller side, 100, 24 and 50) and one dsrl full frame body. I would like some space to have a small jacket and some snacks and personal stuff.
I was thinking about going for the shimoda explorer or the wandrd prvke, would any of those be better for that usage? Any other recommendations?
The Everyday PD is way too inconfortable for me and the big side access does not feel secure enough for crowded cities :(
Hi, thanks for this video! I would like to ask if this shoulder strap can be equipped with Peak Design Capture V3?
Unfortunately I don't have the Peak Design V3 so I can't say for sure!
can you feet the 15-35 standing up? I order the 35 but i feel is way to big, the only concern i have is that i like to have my lenses standing up i have the 15-35 and the 70-200 there about the same size.
How would you compare thins to the F Stop bag you reviewed?
i like this bag better!
Is it really that big? I’m about 5’3 and 105 lbs.. I’m undecided between the 30L and the 25L... I don’t want the backpack to look bigger than me 😆 love this review, thank you
I think the 25L would be a better fit for u. The 30L is a bit big on me, but I make it work. I'm 5'"8 180lbs
January 2022 shipping for the backpack alone and May 2022 shipments for the Starter Kits? They need to fix their ordering and production logistics. Why have them for order when we can't even have them until next year?!?
Theres delays for everything these days, so I wouldn't fault them! Blame Covid and the Suez canal!
They are available via Adorama/B&H
I find the shimoda cubes to be rigid but pretty thin with not enough padding for protection. How do they compare with the wandrd cubes?
WANDRD cubes are way too thick (which is a huge waste of space) and feel kind of cheap, IMO. I've always liked the way Peak Design's are, and Shimoda's seem much more in line with those, but I think the frame to them will be a big plus. WANDRD also flexes a lot and gives me problems when using the side access, and the thick handle on the top interferes with the internal divider (which has to be up or things slip behind the cube). I have the PRVKE 31 and am definitely changing to the Shimoda; just not sure about the size yet.
Can you link which strap you bought? Was it the women standard?
You're right about the E25 bag - I have it (and a 13" MB Air), and it IS the perfect day carry bag, o man. I'm loving it. I have two other Shimoda bags, one is the Action x30, and I didn't know if the E25 was really going to be all that different, but man, it is! And I think nothing of having my photo gear w/ me at any time - and for that it's the deal maker. The Action x30 and 50 are better suited as adventure bags, and this one is just the greatest day carry for me. O YEAH - one more thing - you forgot to show that, new to these E v2 bags is the handle on the back bottom, for an easy pick w/ the top handle when you've been accessing your camera gear and need to move it any distance.
thanks for ur input! yeah im likely going to get the E25 version once it becomes more readily available =)
And yeah i forgot to mention the bottom handle part. But I did show a shot of me using it in this vid!
Hi Desy, would you mind sharing your height? just for the reference, how it might look on me (171 cm), thanks.
Can you fit the small Shimoda core unit in the top section?
possibly in the 30L, and definitely in the 35L. Or just wait for the LARGE mirrorless core unit coming out in May 2022
Dave: what are your thoughts on the all new Peter McKinnon camera backpack ? It’s as if God himself designed a bag?
Haha the PM bag is trash. It starts at 5.6 lbs. Gets dirty reaaally easily, cant hold out against the rain and is overpriced. If you want a backpack that screams "steal me", thats the PM backpack
Also try their warranty support, it sucks. Peak Design and ThinkTank has better warranty support.
Sold mine after begging support to get it fixed. Got the Shimoda and it is way better
Right or left side access: ruclips.net/video/qBb3mM0viNo/видео.html
Thanks! a lot of people linked this video to me, so I made a new video comparing left vs right side access. There is NO difference in time. Its more of a matter of what ur natural way of swinging the bag is
my video will be posted on Friday morning!