THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY BAG For Adventure, Sports, & Wildlife : SHIMODA ACTION X50

[@BrentHall]

Does anyone else love pop tarts and tea this much. . . or is it just me? Also, a few other things I forgot to mention about the bag: It does have a 15" laptop space on the rear flap, but I just keep my lee filter holders in it cause my laptop is way too big for that... It has handles on pretty much all sides, which is fantastic. It has a ton of extra clippy things all over it, so you can strap a ton of other random things to it if you need to. Things like extra jackets, blankets, shoes, gimbals, extra pouches for even more popt tarts, you know, whatevs... You can change out the camera core units depending on how much gear you're packing. The core units can be used separately, which is super handy for light and portable carrying. The Action X50 is carry-on approved for just about most airlines.

[@pmveugen]

+1 on the gear plus family travel stuff. Having enough room to easily pack your gear and carrying load for younger kids, without limiting access is key. Another test is carrying bag plus a kid on your shoulder comfortably 😂 (sturdy frame and good chest/hip support help a lot).

[@BrentHall]

Thanks Paul! I've definitely had the kid on the shoulders for few hikes. Luckily for my shoulders he's big enough to carry himself now, lol.

[@LifeOfMikey1]

What do you think about this vs the Wandrd Fernweh? for hiking/backpacking camping for 2 nights

[@BrentHall]

Idk, I've never heard of that other bag before, so I wouldn't be any help there. All I can say is I've never had a problem with my action x50 for either day hiking or multi day travel.

[@tyeeggleston6159]

Brent some of your other fellow photogs. have done reviews on this bag also, this is exactly why i invested in the development of this bag. I also bought (as soon as they ship it to me) the Action X50. I am so looking forward to seeing how good it will work. Thank you for the awesome (once again) video on it.

[@BrentHall]

Thanks Tye!

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Thanks for backing Tye - Much appreciated.

[@Equilion]

Did you fit the sleeping bag in together with your camera core unit? That'll be the small one then, right?

[@jamieelliott9794]

Great video Brent. I about to drop my $300 on the x50 but just wanting a last piece of the puzzle. Will that side access panel let you get the 1dx2 in and out? I had a great Lowepro bag that was a similar design but it fell apart very quickly. At that time I was using the 5d3 and it fit perfectly but when I upped to the 1dx2 it doesn't fit. can you just give me a thumbs up, or down, depending if this side access is big enough. Cheers

[@BrentHall]

You can definitely get the 1DX2 in and out via the side panel. It's a bit tight because of the internal frame, but I haven't had too much of an issue with it. My 1D fits great inside overall, even with my 100-400 mk ii attached (with the large core unit).

[@jamieelliott9794]

@@BrentHall Thanks, guess I need to get ready to part with some money then. Not sure if the x50 is a bit big for my needs but the x30 won't fit my camera in so the x50 it is!

[@Moshe_F3A]

@@BrentHall helped me a lot !

[@HamerNaturePhotos]

Thanks for the review... lots of great info about the bag! I have the F-Stop Gear Ajna (40L) and it has served me well, but this looks like really good option as a replacement. I am thinking the X50 with large ICU will work for my needs. At first, I was thinking the x50 would be additional bulk that I didn't need, but seems to be the best choice... any other thoughts?

[@BrentHall]

Glad I could help! It's definitely not as bulky as I thought, considering it's a 50L. I think that's partly due to the roll top, being able to roll it down and make it more compact when it's not stuffed to the brim.

[@giannisstefanatos4400]

Really nice review!! I’m between SHIMODA ACTION 50 and FERNWEH BACKPACKING BAG. Which one to pick?? What do you suggest?

[@BrentHall]

Thanks! I don't know though, I've never heard of that other bag. All I can say is that I've had the Shimoda for over a year now and it's still the best bag I've ever used.

[@giannisstefanatos4400]

@@BrentHall Thank you so much for your quick reply!! I’m gonna trust you!!

[@RichardBO9]

Thanks Brent. I'm looking for a new bag. I bought an Atlas and it's okay, but it won't hold my 5DM4 with a grip and a lense attached. I'll have to check this one out.

[@BrentHall]

Yeah, I noticed that about the atlas too. Being able to for my 1DX2 was super important to me, which is why the Shimoda had been awesome! If you do go for it, make sure you get the X50, cause the X30 is too small for a gripped body.

[@thomasbednarowski1651]

Hi Brent. Does this bag fit your new prime lens?

[@BrentHall]

Yes and no...I'm gonna make a video about it here pretty soon.

[@matsbrodin956]

Is it comfortable with heavy gear? When i buy a backpack i mostly only care about the comfort of the carrying system. Is it better then like fjällräven or osprey hiking backpack.

[@BrentHall]

I've been really happy with it so far. It's better than my F-Stop bags, which were the best I'd ever had for carrying heavy loads. I'd say it's more comfortable than my big 55L Kelty backpack, and as comfortable as my Osprey bags, though they are very differently designed (for obvious reasons). Like I said in the video, I carry gear for 3 people in this thing. I usually have about 15 lbs of every day gear for normal outings, and have done up to 45 lbs a few times with it and it is as comfortable as it could be with that much weight (in my opinion). The shoulder straps are maybe a little thin for heavier loads, but I think they said you can buy the thicker straps separate for stuff like that. I've never had or tried a Fjiallraven so I couldn't say how it compares to that.

[@jonkristianbye6562]

Hi Brent! Does the top compartment extend flexibly down into the backpack, so that if I only use the smallest core unit, the top compartment can fill the remaining free space?

[@BrentHall]

Yes it does.

[@jonkristianbye6562]

@@BrentHallThat's great! Thanks for answering! Do you happen to know if this is also the case with the explore V2 backpack?

[@BrentHall]

@@jonkristianbye6562 The top pouch in the Explore V2 is made in the same fashion, but it's much smaller than the pouch in the Action X50. It doesn't extend own as far.

[@ShimodaDesigns]

Great video Brent, thank you. The bags definitely had a few days of being the 'family-sherpa' during the development period ... all part of the adventure. :) - Ian

[@BrentHall]

Hey, it was my pleasure. You guys truly make incredible gear, and I'm stoked to be able to use it and recommend it!

[@jaysun070476]

Ya i just got the fstop ajna one thing that really annoys me is with a med slope icu there is a major gap between the top of the icu and the top loading compartment. After contacing fstop they recommended i buy the cell pouch kits. Really a divider should come standard still a decent bag . Definitely going to get a shimoda action once all the backorder crap settles down lol. Is there a option for a hydration bladder? And if so is there a hole to route the hose? Thank you.

[@BrentHall]

Yep, that was one thing that drove me nuts with my F-Stop bags. an included divider of some kind would definitely have been helpful, but overall I still much prefer the Shimoda design. There is a place on the Action series for a bladder, in the front pocket, and there are loops and strappy bits for the hose to run to the straps, but I don't there's an actual dedicated hole for it to leave the front pocket, just have to zip around it I guess.

[@xtremepsy2098]

Hey Brent! I'm interested in getting this bag, but I am not sure if x50 fits all my gear. I have also lots of camouflage, I use a benro GH2 gimbal head and have a tamron 150-600G2. i dont think the lens fits in the x50, does it? maybe i should go with x70 but its also quite large and above airline guidelines actually. what do you suggest? thank you!

[@BrentHall]

I'm pretty sure I put the tamron in there when I rented it. The x70 would definitely fit everything you need more comfortably, but I'm fairly confident the x50 would fit all that stuff too. I stuff mine well beyond full more often than my back would like, and it holds it pretty well.

[@xtremepsy2098]

Brent Hall Great! Thank you Brent! Keep up the Great work on your Channel!

[@BrentHall]

Hey thanks man, I appreciate that, and I'll definitely keep trying my best. 😁

[@ezntertainment3601]

What part of NM are you from? Looks like northern. I really like these bags, they seem really functional. I hope to get one soon.

[@BrentHall]

I'm in the sw part of New Mexico, but I actually shot that video in Georgia.

[@ezntertainment3601]

@@BrentHall no way, so am I. I have been trying to get into photography more. I have always had a passion for it. Do you by chance know Wayne Suggs? I do work for him (outside of photography) and he’s such an inspiration.

[@BrentHall]

@@ezntertainment3601 Yeah I definitely know of Wayne. Never met him, but have followed his work for a long time. I think he's one of the best photographers to ever come out of this state.

[@ezntertainment3601]

@@BrentHall yes he really is amazing. It’s nice to meet other photographers from the area. I just now discovered your channel and have watched a few videos. You have some great work too. I’ll have to follow you on Instagram

[@denislevochkin9494]

Hi! Have you ever try backpack LowePro Whistler AW450 BP ii? I think which one is better:this shimoda or LowePro.

[@BrentHall]

I've had quite a few Lowe Pro bags, but never tried that one. For me personally, the Shimoda is still the best bag I've ever used, and I've had it for over a year now.

[@denislevochkin9494]

@@BrentHall Thanks!

[@khoibui89]

Hi Brent, you mentioned that all of the zippers are weather/water sealed, but it doesn't look like back compartment is? (where you would access the laptop or camera cube) can you share your insights if this would be an issue in modest rain?

[@BrentHall]

Sorry for the late response. The back zipper isn't water sealed like the front ones, but it's pretty thick, so I would feel fine hiking in light to moderate rain, though I'd still air on the side of caution and throw the rain cover on if it got too bad.

[@khoibui89]

@@BrentHall Thanks for the reply man! I was worried about that, since that part would still be exposed with a rain cover and potentially catch water running off from the rain cover... Odd decision on this design.

[@RhawiDantas]

Thanks for showing what actually goes inside of the backpack that is not camera related. I am leaning towards a x30 but I am afraid that it won't fit a sleeping bag. Do you have any advice for me?

[@BrentHall]

Glad I could help! Yeah, I personally usually tend to carry a lot of non-photography related stuff, and this bag has been absolutely perfect for me. That's tricky to answer since I haven't actually seen the x30. I'd say it would depend on your sleeping bag. If it's an ultra-light, and/or you don't use a stuff sack then you could probably still fit it with some other gear in the X30, but don't hold me to that. Maybe hit up Ian from Shimoda and I bet he'll know for sure. Just email their support and ask before you get one.

[@RhawiDantas]

@@BrentHall yeah I sent then an email with backpack contents and litres but they just referred me to other videos instead of answering the questions. once again thanks man.

[@BrentHall]

Oh bummer, I'm sorry to hear that. Well I hope my video helped a little bit at least, and you can always hit me up if you have other questions.

[@gtilford60]

Great review thanks for that, I did look at the bags they seem a bit pricey compared to some of the other options out there. If you were paying what they are asking for it would you buy it?

[@BrentHall]

Absolutely! I know I might sound like a shill here, since I got the bag for free, but the truth is I was about to buy it anyways, and I might still buy one in black, and maybe even the X30 for when I downsize or just want to go lighter. I have bought every other bag I've ever owned (except the Tenba Shootout, which they gave me), including my old F-stop bags, which were just as pricey. I think this bag, and any bag that I've purchased in the past is totally worth the investment (to me) because I value keeping my gear safe in my adventures. I can't say that it's worth it to everyone to spend a certain amount of money on something though, because everyone is different, with different needs, budgets, justifications, etc. All I can say is I truly love this bag and Shimoda as a company and will continue to support them as long as they keep making gear of this quality. Hope that helps.

[@gtilford60]

@@BrentHall Thanks for the reply, I just priced out the explorer 60 and for me up here in Ontario, Canada it would be about 600-650 dollars which I find a bit steep, my old Lowepro which was 160 when i bought it gets taken apart twice a year and waterproofed and I have never had an issue in 8 years now. But the explorer 60 is a really nice bag lol

[@BrentHall]

@@gtilford60 Hey no worries man, I'm not a sales person, lol. I feel your pain, that's definitely a steep price to pay for a bag, especially if you're not a full on Pro. I still have my LowePro Trekker 450AW from like 10 years ago. It's still pretty solid!

[@dexon555]

How did you get one? The website says it won’t ship until May 2020?

[@BrentHall]

I said it in the beginning of the video, Shimoda reached out and sent me one to test out for their kickstarter period.

[@whfowle]

The action word is comfortable.

[@allenchau2599]

Is this bag carry-on compatible ? Thanks

[@BrentHall]

Yes it is, for most normal sized planes. 😁

[@allenchau2599]

@@BrentHall I am currently using the explore 40. I wonder if the 40 is the same dimension as the 50 without the rolled top

[@GregVidua]

@@allenchau2599 yes, they are about the same size when the top is rolled.

[@CaptainFuzzzy]

“Pop tarts fit.” *smashes the buy button*

[@BrentHall]

YAS!!! You, my good sir, have some excellent priorities. 🎩

[@BrentHall]

Also, not sure why, but my code wasn't showing up, HALL10 if you want a little discount

[@CaptainFuzzzy]

@@BrentHall thanks! I emailed them. Doing some work in national parks this summer :)

[@CaptainFuzzzy]

@@BrentHall quick question for ya... I’ve got a 60-600MM sigma lens, a 24-70, and a Leica SL2. Do you think I’ll be the larger core unit? Can’t find good measurements anywhere. The goal is to have one bag for a set of clothes, iPad and this camera gear and cables etc. thanks :)

[@CaptainFuzzzy]

Need the larger core*

[@mistysedillo1696]

I need that bag and your big boy camera!

[@BrentHall]

😂😁🙌📷

[@drmgillan]

Can this fit a canon 600mm f4?

[@BrentHall]

Theoretically, possibly... properly and comfortably, not so much.

[@HelamanGile]

Nice video 👍

[@BrentHall]

Thanks man! 😃

[@HelamanGile]

What's the price??

[@BrentHall]

It depends on what size and accessories you want. Here's the link: shimoda-action-x-camera-bags.kckb.st/375fa53f

[@seanbowen4429]

Thanks man! As a father and photographer you’ve given a lot of insight and reaffirmed my purchase! This will be great for day outings as well as flying. Subscribed!

[@BrentHall]

Thank you Sean, I appreciate that, and I'm glad I could help!

[@correctaperture]

ATTENTION: DAMAGE IS VERY LIKELY TO YOUR ACTION X50 IT HAS ISSUES WITH DESIGN OF BASE FABRIC MATERIAL. Please read below including response from Shimoda design team.... Your marketing seemed pretty clear to me that this new extra tough model from the Shimoda range has an extra tough base material built in. But what I've actually found after just a few outings and three weeks ownership is that the base is actually made from a less abrasion resistant material than the coated nylon you have put on the rest of the product, and in fact all your ranges prior. You seem to be in the defence already here on expected life span of surface materials. I can assure you 100% my action X50 has been handled with care when laying it's back on the ground, and I am horrified by how fast the base has surcumed to damage compared to the rest of the packs surface this is surely a design flaws as it does not hold the same tough nylon laminated properties as the main bags surface area. I promise you all surface areas of the product have been exposed to an equal abrasion situation on my photography trips as the pack has to lie backside down during access to the rear door panel as you are aware. I never sit it on the base, and it's a true error in the manufacturing choice of material as if you would have continued to keep to your original series formula of ripstop reinforced coated nylon the base material would not in my opinion have suffered this same damage in a short space of time, as is proven by the material exposed to the same rigur above this area on my bag. I am a very careful owner of all my outdoor gear and look after everything I use, as I expect many months and years of use. This is not acceptable I am sure you will agree, here In my assessment stated. RESPONSE BELOW FROM SHIMODA... hi Chris, Our bags are designed for outdoor environments, regardless of how many days they have been in the field - abrasion can cause damage to the pack. They are not indestructible and I do not think our marketing has ever claimed them to be. Ian Millar, Shimoda.

[@jamesgjurovich7893]

where are your photos?

[@twent19]

Everybody keep saying it's great for adventure stuffs... Would it not still be great for an every day/city photography bag??

[@BrentHall]

I personally use it for everything, including everyday and city photo sessions and client work. I think it's totally fine for that. Some might say it would be too big, or not as casual/ professional looking for that, but if you're comfortable with it, then absolutely.

[@twent19]

@@BrentHall Thank you for that, great video and keep it up!

[@BrentHall]

@@twent19 you bet man, glad I could help!

[@danielfoley9364]

You didnt even link the bag?

[@BrentHall]

I did, but it was the kickstarter link, and when it ended they sent me another link, but apparently that didn't work. I think I fixed it now though. And they gave me a discount code everyone, which is also in the description now. Sorry about that.

[@danielfoley9364]

@@BrentHall ah got it, no worries man!

[@RunAwayTraveler]

Can you get away with this bag as a carry on? Do you get funny looks by airline people?

[@BrentHall]

Yeah, I haven't had any issues with it as a carry on, but you do get some looks sometimes, lol. On the smaller planes, this one might be an issue, especially if it's really full and packed out. My Explore V2 though, has never had any issues or weird looks and I prefer it for most travel stuff these days.