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Shimoda Designs Action X50 Backpack (Black)

BH #SHAX50B • MFR #520-104
Shimoda Designs Action X50 Backpack (Black)
Key Features
  • Versatile, Multiuse Roll-Top Backpack
  • Accepts Medium/Large DSLR Core Unit v2
  • Rear, Side, and Top Access
  • Accommodates Photo & Backcountry Gear
The black Action X50 Backpack from Shimoda Designs is a versatile, multiuse bag that can accommodate the combined interests of the adventure photographer, multimedia creator, hiker, or mountain sports enthusiast. Inside, the spacious main compartment has a partition system that forms an optional bottom section that enhances the ability to organize this backpack's contents when used with either a separately available Shimoda Designs Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or a separately available Shimoda Designs Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2. Created to store and organize camera, video, audio, or digital media equipment, the Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 complement the Action X50 Backpack by also featuring zippered side openings that align with the Action X50 Backpack's own zippered side opening for seamless accessibility to the equipment inside when the bag is rotated from one's back to front with the right side facing upward.
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Shimoda Designs X50 Overview

The black Action X50 Backpack from Shimoda Designs is a versatile, multiuse bag that can accommodate the combined interests of the adventure photographer, multimedia creator, hiker, or mountain sports enthusiast. Inside, the spacious main compartment has a partition system that forms an optional bottom section that enhances the ability to organize this backpack's contents when used with either a separately available Shimoda Designs Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or a separately available Shimoda Designs Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2. Created to store and organize camera, video, audio, or digital media equipment, the Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 complement the Action X50 Backpack by also featuring zippered side openings that align with the Action X50 Backpack's own zippered side opening for seamless accessibility to the equipment inside when the bag is rotated from one's back to front with the right side facing upward.

When the partition system is enabled, the space created above a Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 can then be dedicated to a variety of items such as outdoor gear or packable clothing that can be reached quickly and conveniently through the backpack's top opening. A roll top design allows the wearer to easily compress the backpack according to the specific amount of equipment placed inside it, which also serves to effectively seal out moisture and dust. When the backpack is firmly rolled shut, the top can be secured using its integrated side-release buckle closure. For use under inclement weather, a secondary, zippered closure is included along the top of the Action X50 Backpack which also provides access to organizational pockets for items that need to be accessed quickly and conveniently, such as snacks, a pair of sunglasses, or music player earphones.

If the Action X50 Backpack is placed on the ground or a flat surface, complete access to a Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 is provided by a swing-out zippered panel that faces the wearer's back. Along the inside of the rear-facing zippered panel is the Action X50 Backpack's 15" laptop sleeve. The backpack's front panel unzips to provide reveal additional organizational pockets as well as space to store packable clothing and can accommodate a hydration pack while featuring an opening for the hydration pack's sip tube along the right of the wearer.

The Action X50 Backpack can be lifted via its built-in haul and side handles, and carried by its adjustable, padded shoulder straps which can be adjusted upward or downward for a better fit. A zipper along the outer edge of the strap which rests over the wearer's left shoulder opens a smartphone pocket, while the outer edge of the strap which rests over the wearer's right shoulder includes a stretchable side pocket that can accommodate a sunscreen tube, insect spray, snacks, or a water bottle. For heavy loads, this backpack's removable waist belt transfers weight to the hips for additional comfort, while the sternum strap further limits unintentional shifting around the wearer.

Featuring a durable, nylon construction, the Action X50 Backpack is built to be weather resistant. To further protect its contents should the bag be placed on a wet surface, the bottom panel is waterproof.

Capacity
  • Versatile, multiuse backpack that can accommodate the combined interests of the adventure photographer, multimedia creator, hiker, or mountain sports enthusiast
  • Designed for use with a separately available Shimoda Designs Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or a separately available Shimoda Designs Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2
  • When used with a Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2, can accommodate up to two DSLR cameras and five lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens; or two DSLR cameras and three lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, plus a medium-sized drone kit
  • When used with a Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2, can accommodate up to two DSLR cameras and nine lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens; or two DSLR cameras and five lenses, including a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, plus a medium-sized drone kit
  • Rear access panel contains a padded, zippered pocket for a 15" laptop
  • Front panel unzips to reveal organizational pockets as well as space to store packable clothing and can accommodate a hydration pack while featuring an opening for the hydration pack's sip tube along the right of the wearer
  • Side panel along the wearer's left side can be unzipped and contains organizational pockets that can be accessed when the bag is rotated from one's back to front with the left side facing upward
  • Zippered opening along the top of the backpack provides access to organizational pockets, a key clip, and space for items that need to be reached quickly and conveniently
  • Outer edge of the backpack strap which rests over the wearer's left shoulder opens a padded, zippered smartphone pocket
  • Backpack strap which rests over the wearer's right shoulder includes a stretchable side pocket that can accommodate a sunscreen tube, insect spray, snacks, or a water bottle
  • Zippered tuck-away water bottle or tripod- holder pockets along both sides of backpack
  • Multiple, heavy-duty compression straps along each side and on the front of the backpack allow tripods, as well as skis, a snowboard, or other outdoor mountain equipment to be conveniently harnessed and carried
  • Included Helmet Harness allows a snow or bike helmet to be fastened against the backpack's front panel
  • Front panel ice pick loops
  • Waist belt loops for hiking poles, ice picks, or tripod
  • Easy-to-reach storage pockets along sides of removable waist belt
  • Separately available Shimoda Designs Top Loader can be fastened against the backpack straps to hold a small drone kit or medium-sized camera along with an attached 24-70mm f/2.8 or 70-200mm f/2.8 lens over the wearer's chest
  • Top Loader can be used as a side accessible core unit or integrated with the waist belt
Handling and Fit
  • Main compartment has a partition system that forms an optional bottom section that enhances the ability to organize this backpack's contents when used with a separately available Shimoda Designs Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or a separately available Shimoda Designs Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2
  • Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 complement the Action X50 Backpack by featuring zippered side openings that align with the Action X50 Backpack's own zippered side opening for seamless accessibility to the equipment inside when the bag is rotated from one's back to front with the right side facing upward
  • Complete access to a Medium DSLR Core Unit Version 2 or Large DSLR Core Unit Version 2 is provided by a swing-out zippered panel that faces the wearer's back
  • A roll top design with integrated side-release buckle closure allows the wearer to easily compress the backpack according to the specific amount of equipment placed inside it while effectively sealing out moisture and dust
  • Secondary, zippered top closure for use under inclement weather
  • Can be lifted via its built-in haul and side handles, and carried by its adjustable, padded shoulder straps with gear loops with which can be adjusted upward or downward for a better fit
  • For heavy loads, removable waist belt transfers weight to the hips for additional comfort, while the sternum strap further limits unintentional shifting around the wearer
  • Buckle closures feature side-release buckles are designed for use with gloves
  • Multiple front and side gear loops
  • Durable, weather-resistant nylon construction with waterproof bottom panel
  • Backpack straps can be removed and substituted with separately available, Shimoda Designs Women's Simple Petite Backpack Straps, Shimoda Designs Women's Simple Backpack Straps, Shimoda Designs Women's Tech Backpack Straps, or Shimoda Designs Men's Plus Backpack straps
  • Separately available Shimoda Designs Action X Belt Booster provides an additional 10.5 inches of length to the waist belt for larger waist lines or to better accommodate winter apparel

Shimoda Designs X50 Specs

Key Specs
Color
Black
Laptop/Tablet Compatibility
Single Compartment: Fits 15" Laptop
•Up to 13.8 x 9.4 x 0.6" / 35 x 24 x 1.5 cm
Dimensions
Exterior
22.05 x 11.81 x 8.27" / 56.01 x 30 x 21.01 cm
Interior
22.05 x 11.81 x 8.27" / 56.01 x 30 x 21.01 cm
Laptop/Tablet Compatibility
Single Compartment: Fits 15" Laptop
•Up to 13.8 x 9.4 x 0.6" / 35 x 24 x 1.5 cm
Environmental
Stand/Tripod Holder
Yes
General
Materials
Exterior: Nylon
Interior: Nylon
Dimensions
Exterior
22.05 x 11.81 x 8.27" / 56.01 x 30 x 21.01 cm
Interior
22.05 x 11.81 x 8.27" / 56.01 x 30 x 21.01 cm
Packaging Info
Package Weight
5.75 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
23 x 13 x 10"

Shimoda Designs X50 Reviews

Comfort with capacity

By Tony
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-07-23

I own the first design of Explore and always wished for just a bit more comfort and a side pocket on both sides. I purchased this over the new design of Explore due to the pricing and although it has the pockets I wanted and is definitely more comfortable than the original Explore, I am not that big a fan of the roll top. I can pack quite a bit in this pack and with proper adjustments it is more comfortable than I expected. I do recommend this pack but if you don't mind spending about 100 more, I would go for the V2 of Explore because I prefer the design of the top.

Comfortable!

By Ted
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-03-20

Hiked with about 25 pounds in this pack and it felt like nothing was on my back. Very comfortable.

Good backpack for traveling

By Hesham
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-03-17

I bought this backpack, because it's bigger for DSLR gears , I use it for outdoor, travel , hiking.and street walk . I love this backpack, it is suitable for me and easy to use, there is enough space for summer or winter trips. I recommend it for photographers and landscapers

Extremely comfortable and versatile

By Ryan
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-03-13

I've had the Lowepro Protactic bp 450 aw ii for a while now, but, while it fit all of my gear, it was uncomfortable when heavy. And, it was heavy without much gear in it. Also, there was no room for non-camera related gear. The Action x50 solves both of those problems. It is bigger, but lighter when empty. It has room for everything that I need, with room to expand! I wore it fully loaded the other day for several hours with absolutely no discomfort. I also like that it is very weather resistant. It may be a bit big for people with smaller frames, but fits me nicely. Highly recommend.

Hard to get any better than this. Highly recommend!

By Jake
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-13

I highly recommend this bag for wildlife/landscape photographers and outdoor enthusiast like me. Loved this bag from day one. I'm VERY picky on my bags. Wildlife Photography is my main hobby/passion but on top of that I'm very much a outdoor enthusiast. So I needed to have a very durable, rain/snow resistant, and big enough for my Telephoto lens with all my other gear. I wanted a camera bag that can withstand all the elements and my slightly reckless lifestyle. I got this bag and the next day I took it out on a backcountry snowboard day trip. I over packed it with my wide angle lens (in my small peak design pouch), 2 snowboards on my back, snowboard boots, water, shovel and assortment of other things. It held up all day no rips or tears. When I was snowboarding my snowshoes and poles where on the back, they held in tight no issues even when I landed on my back on the hard pack, it held up. -Fits my Sony a7rii with the Sony 200-600 attached perfectly in the back access. -The straps felt great even over packed. -The high visibility inside really works great for finding things quickly. -The zipper to the roll top compartment is genius! -The glove friendly buckles are probably the best thing ever invented for fatigue.. by the end of the day I was completely beat and I never realized how such a little task like these buckles would make a world of difference until then. (Thank you Shimoda for the little things.) -The ease of the back compartment with the large zippers and shoulder straps being looser (maybe not the right word) makes it incredibly easy to access and not frustrating. Cause we all know when your out in the back country hiking or whatever it is all day, your wore out, and you see a opportunity for a shot, there is nothing more frustrating than going to try to get into your bag and everything is in your way or hard to grab. Shimoda you absolutely killed it. On every small detail of this bag, for people like me and I am truly greatful.

Really great bag

By Joshua
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-12-06

Great quality workmanship and comfortable. Easily carries all photo gear plus overnight gear for backpacking. Very pleased.

The Last Backpack You'll EVER Need

By Zach
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-06-18

TL;DR The best backpack you can buy (photo or otherwise). Great storage, great functionality, and great durability. Medium DSLR Core Unit is more than enough for photographers and single-camera videographers - if you're running a two-camera setup you'll need the Large DSLR Core Unit. The price is steep - but it's worth every penny. I've had the pleasure of using the Shimoda Designs Action X50 Backpack for a couple of weeks now, and I must say, it has truly exceeded my expectations in every way. The Action X50 Backpack is a true multiuse marvel, catering to the diverse needs of adventure photographers, filmmakers, hikers, and mountain sports enthusiasts. Its organization and gear capacity are incredible, its usability and durability are par none, and it's worth every penny. - Gear Capacity - While the Action X50 has excellent storage capacity (I can bring all my camera equipment + a rain jacket + lunch + camp shoes + more) the medium DLSR Kit may not be enough for some filmmakers. It fits a single camera's equipment (1 body + 2 lenses + 5in monitor + v-mount + matte box + misc items) well enough, there just isn't enough room for a second body. I think I'll be upgrading to a Large DSLR core unity soon, but for MOST people the Medium DSLR core unit is perfect! - Usability - One of the standout features of this backpack is its design. The rolltop feature allows you to easily compress the bag according to your specific equipment needs, while also sealing out moisture and dust effectively - no problems so far in the mountains of Colorado. The top opening provides access to convenient organizational pockets, a key clip, and space for items you need to reach quickly - great for non-camera equipment such as lunch, extra clothes, misc items like keys and glasses, etc! Something most people overlook is the shoulder strap pockets - these are PERFECT for storing your smartphone and sunglasses and have made being on location so much more comfortable when shooting. Lastly, the back zipper access has been an absolute game-changer for me. Being able to toss the bag down and quickly access everything I need for my rig in one smooth zipper pull is incredible. - Durability - With the Action X50's durable material and superior build quality, I'm not worried about dragging it around on concrete or through the dirt. It's seen over half a dozen shoots in the mountains of Colorado and even more in urban settings and it has been dragged, tossed, dropped, and fallen on rocks, dusty trails, concrete, wet grass, questionable alleys, venue floors, and more. Somehow... it still looks brand new! - Worth Every Penny- The Action X50 Backpack does come with a higher price tag, but let me assure you, it's worth every single penny. The functionality, design, and outstanding durability make it the best backpack I have ever used, hands down. Investing in this backpack has truly been a game-changer for me and I can't see myself using anything else for my filmmaking, photography, hiking, backpacking, or daily adventures. - Conclusion - You can't go wrong with a Shimoda Designs bag. The Action X50 is the perfect bag for everyone and offers the best flexibility and functionality while still remaining compact and usable in everyday life. This is my everyday bag and looks like it will be for years to come!

Great for intended purpose

By Andrew
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-03-28

This pack is really great for what it is built for. It carries weight well, is durable and can be stripped down if you need to save weight, simplify your life, or use it as a carry on. Access, weather resistance are the two things that sold me. Whether it's side access, back access, top access - it all works well. To make it carry on capable, remove the stay and use the roll top to shrink the pack. Con is that it's pretty heavy if you're used to ultralight backpacking or alpine climbing packs. But if that's your priority you're likely seeking another solution. That said, you could also use this pack for awhile and then cut off what you don't need (extra side handle, tripod pouches, zipper pulls and extra webbing, etc)

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