These new camera backpacks from Manfrotto offer more than just a minimalist design.
In late 2021, Manfrotto refreshed their camera bag collection. In recent years, the brand has produced camera carry solutions that offer more refined designs and modular options compatible with a wide range of applications. Among the refreshed camera bag collections are Manfrotto Street Bag includes a backpack, a tote bag, a technology organizer and a crossbody bag, Manfrotto Advanced Bag including backpacks, shoulder bags and handbags, Pro Light Collection Includes five different backpacks and Pro Light Tough Hard Case that we has reviewed a month ago with a larger sized luggage case.
Pro Light Backpack includes Pro Light Multiloader, Flexloader, Frontloader and two sizes of Backloader. In this review we review and compare Pro Light Frontloader USA and Backloader USA variations.
Material and exterior design
The Manfrotto Pro Light backpacks all share the same main exterior features. The outer fabric is a matte, dark gray textured surface made up of ripstop and nylon that offers a balance of lightweight, moisture-resistant, tear- and abrasion-resistant materials. The structure of the backpack is reinforced with resilient flexible foam, which contributes to impact protection and comfortable carrying.
The back panels are lined with breathable memory foam covered with a mesh fabric for cushioning and breathability when carrying a backpack. Thick and padded shoulder straps, no height adjustable straps. All backpacks have an adjustable chest strap for better weight distribution and comfort, as well as a handle/side strap that also acts as a luggage handle lanyard.
Another common feature in all five Pro Light backpacks is the included TSA-approved 3-digit code padlock that is fastened to the side with dedicated pockets. These steel wire padlocks fit easily through loops at the ends of the zipper bars and allow protection of all main compartments and accessory pockets, keeping the backpack protected against physical threats. and security.
The Pro Light Backloader, as the name implies, has a rear camera compartment. Its most distinguishing feature is the presence of rubber guards on the front surface to act as a point of contact when you place the backpack on the ground to open the compartment. The back cover opens to reveal a compartment that also has an additional mesh pocket as well as a padded 15-inch laptop compartment. Backloading features a pair of straps that attach to the tripod and flexible pockets on both sides for carrying a travel-sized tripod, water bottles, and other long accessories.
Pro Light Frontloader uses the full front cover to open the main camera compartment. The outside of the lid includes a front pocket for smaller accessories.
Secondary access is also an option to access the bottom third of the camera compartment to grab the most used devices. While one side is occupied by side doors, the other side has a strap that comes with a tripod and flexible bag. The top of the rear panel opens with a zipper to reveal a padded 15-inch laptop compartment while inside the front flap there are only mesh pockets for small accessories. With the new Pro Light backpack, Manfrotto is also introducing a new interior compartment system called the M-Guard cushion. These new dividers have a more flexible folding pattern like the letter M. With the ability to fold the panels, users can make the compartments thinner or the panels have a slight bulge. This new form factor adds more options for fitting devices inside the bag and reduces extra space to prevent items from bumping into each other during transport. Of course, the fully removable inner padding can accommodate larger pieces of furniture, which is also great for dividing up storage for non-photographic items in case space is needed. utensils are minimal.
Capacity
Both Pro Light backpack variants have roughly the same capacity. The main camera compartment can hold one or two full frame DSLR or mirrorless camera bodies with four to six standard size lenses. The bag’s long shaft can accommodate a full-frame body with the included 70-200mm telephoto lens. In addition, a foldable drone camera can replace two or three lenses inside the compartment.
Mesh pockets on the lid can hold memory cards, batteries, keys and other small items. The front can hold a standard tablet and there are also smaller mesh pockets for additional accessories. The laptop compartments can hold a 15-inch laptop; however, the rear pocket on the Pro Light Frontloader has more room for a thicker laptop.
Accessory
Both bags include the mentioned TSA-approved padlocks to secure all main camera compartments and accessory pockets. This is a feature worth keeping in mind, especially for the Pro Light Frontloader, where accessibility that prevents the front camera from being exposed can be a cause for concern. Being able to lock the bag via a padlock eliminates that risk, and having the padlock secured to the bag reduces the risk of losing the padlock which is a familiar experience for many travelers.
Both bags also include an all-weather cover. This uniquely designed rain cover acts as a heat reflector. The black surface protects from moisture and dust like any rain cover, while the reflective side is best used to repel heat and reduce heat penetration into the bag itself.
Conclusion
Looking at the collection as a whole, the Pro Light collection offers options for photographers and filmmakers with almost any compartment access point and extra features they could want. The Pro Light Frontloader and Backloader backpacks are staples in camera backpack styles with added features of security, fit, and comfort. The multiloader provides front, side and top access as a flexible option and the Flexloader has a collapsible secondary compartment that can accommodate large accessories such as a gimbal stabilizer providing a suitable carry-on solution. response. With an abundance of options, these camera bags can be a lasting companion for any professional or hobbyist.
What I like:
- Minimalist aesthetic
- Multiple options in access points
- The entire bag can be locked with the included padlock
- Multi-function cushions and compartments
What could be improved:
- No modular accessories
- Limited bag/hook attachment point options
