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Review on Evoc Hip Pack Capture 7L: The Ultimate Bag for Outdoor Adventures in Heather Carbon Grey - 7L Capacity by Marcelo Montalvo

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Suitable for Canon R5 with attached 70-200mm F2 lens.

I was looking for a backpack to comfortably carry the R5 with 70-200 f2 while cycling when I came across the EVOC. I was an active mountain biker 15 years ago, but these days, due to health issues and the extra weight around my waist, I don't attempt anything other than a short stretch of flat gravel road. So I mainly ride paved roads, ride in parks and beaches, photograph nature and general landscapes in half a day. I get off my bike to walk the trails when the need arises. I only wanted to carry the 70-200mm beast despite its weight because it's so versatile. When visiting a new area, I might take a wide-angle prime along with a 70-200. I wanted to avoid backpacks as I already own several and even the small 15 liter sizes are too big for this setup. When I'm driving it just bounces around inside and it's just uncomfortable and annoying. I stumbled across EVOC while surfing the web and couldn't find many reviews for this brand or product. Another reviewer here on Revain from the UK actually gave one of the most detailed reviews I've ever found. I didn't know if it would work for my setup but decided to give it a try anyway. I'm happy to report that it really fits my setup perfectly. The washer on top is a little flimsy so I removed one of the 3 washers and placed it on top allowing about half of the lens to slide under the washer. I added two more detachable pads on the left and right side and it's very convenient to slide the camera in and out with one quick movement. If I remove the big glass from the body then there is definitely room for a 35mm f1.8 and send fifty bucks. As it turns out, space isn't the issue; it is weight. On my best days, carrying 2-3 liter water bags on a bike backpack was nothing to complain about. Another thing 15 years later. I'm just not in shape to carry the weight of my own body. The combination of R5 and 70-200 f2.8 weighs just under 2kg or 2 liters of water. This didn't bother me as I was carrying a load in the Peak Design Sling 6l just for hiking or walking around town. However, this becomes an issue when I'm cycling; 2 kilograms on one shoulder is too painful even on a well paved road. The waist belt on this bag takes all of the weight off my shoulders and transfers it to the ground. If I slide my seat forward, I can partially recline it into the seat, making driving even easier. I can just unfold my bag on the bike to get my camera out and take a quick photo. Perfect. I don't know where it's actually made, but it says "Designed in Germany". And as it should be, everything was well thought out and at least gave the impression of very solid, solidly made German technology. Time will tell how long it will take, but I'm very glad I found it. Probably not for everyone, but it works for me. A lighter mirrorless setup with a smaller crop sensor could work very well for most cycling photographers. If I'm only using the Canon RP with a small prime lens, I could probably pack a light fleece jacket and roll my raincoat in the same bag.

Pros
  • Handy
Cons
  • Fits