![]() Though F-Stop produces other backpacks which have beefier padding, I find Loka extremely comfortable to carry, even with heavy loads. Having this pocket too stuffed with anyting hard would also mean that everytime you put your backpack down to take photo/video gear out, it would either be in way and could possibly tumble the backpack to the sides or crush the hard goods in the front pocket. I find it too shallow to actually stuff something useful there except lighter clothing, but then again that can easily be stored inside the main compartment. ![]() ![]() ![]() If it were me, I would simply ditch that, get some weight saving and make backpack even simpler. The second thing I personally don't need and/or find no real use for is the vertical pocket that runs along the front of the backpack. I have to note though that except visible signs of wear all is structurally and integrally perfect. And as I often need to take gear out leaving my backpack on rocks in the mountains and elsewhere, that is where I see a potential for design improvement, as it only needs a tiny bit of shifting the sewing to either side. two edges which protrude (from the bottom side of ICU) on the outer side, exactly where the nylon material meets the bottom super-sturdy and durable material. That is the exact point where the backpack sees most use - when being offloaded to the ground in order to take out gear or even leaving it stand. What I don't like with the design of my 2013 model Loka, is the bottom part detail. And it actually hurts, as it did on a frigid cold and ferociously windy day this February climbing above Chamonix. You'd think that it is not important, but only as long you're not climbig at 80 km/h+ winds when those "not to worry" straps start slamming your face ferociously. It is also the small little details that count, such as elastic bands that hold the free end of the straps in place. I believe there is also a lifetime warranty on the zippers, so you should have a peace of mind. Big strong and easy to slide zippers seem to be bombproof and after a year of use from -25✬ to +35✬, they seem to be intact. Loka has a back access to the gear, which is absolutely perfect. Which is why it is best to omit it in the design from the beginning. Being a climber sooner or later gets you to the point when you figure out that all the bells and whistles usually catch on rocky outcrops, mean more weight is being carried (usually to no advantage) and more things get broken. Leaving the obvious women's attributes aside, I like keeping things minimal and simple. Seeing the backpack in person during Samo Vidic Pro Photography Workshop, I made up my mind in an instant. Reading some really nice reviews I started thinking of the F-Stop Loka. The LowePro PhotoSport suffered the same. However, the Contrejour's problem was that it was too big and when loaded, side access got "twisted" in a way I could not easily retract the camera. Both had side access, which at the time I found crucial to reach for gear. I've previously owned and used many backpacks of different brands, but most extensively used were Clik Elite Contrejour 35 and the LowePro PhotoSport. Meaning I have to carry all the gear along to far-away places and use it in awkward places such as hanging from ropes, standing on small ledges or alike.Īs my cameras grew in size and weight from the smallest point and shoots to DSLRs, pockets were getting outgrown, over-the-shoulder bags became impractical and uncomfortable and following the natural evolution for carrying heavier loads was next - backpacks. I am an avid adventure photographer/videographer, mainly using my gear for alpine climbing, ice climbing and freeride skiing. But over time I started finding myself more and more on the other side of the lens, being photography or videography documenting my adventures around the globe. My main passions being outdoor sports I usually write reviews of rad climbing, skiing, speedflying and other outdoor sports gear and gadgets. It's been a while since I last reviewed a piece of gear that I really really liked.
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