I've been searching for a backpack that would hold most or all of my camera gear as well as a 11-13" laptop and enough clothes for a short trip. Another requirement was that it should be possible to take on a plane as carry-on luggage. I also wanted something that I could use for other things so a removable camera block was preferable.
The market here in Sweden is quite limited and most of the stuff is just ordinary camera backpacks from the usual suspects (Kata, LowePro etc). After a lot of research I finally found the perfect backpack for my needs in the US by a relatively small company called F-Stop. The model is called
Loka and it almost feels like they had read my mind when they designed it.
I ordered it in the middle of January with a small and medium camera block (ICU) but due to low availability I only received it at the end of May. I've now had some time to get to know it and thought I'd post a short review.
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The "parts" were delivered in their own protective bags which is a nice touch and adds a bit of premium feel to the product.
As I mentioned earlier I ordered it with the small and medium ICUs. The small one, which I haven't had time to use much, is just a block that can hold my K-7 + DA* 50-135 and some other bits and pieces. It is quite deep so I guess I could double stack my limiteds and other smaller lenses. The medium ICU is wedge shaped which allows you to fit a laptop or some other stuff behind it when it is inserted in the backpack.
The backpack has one opening up top and another, larger one, on the back where you can access the camera block. The backpack also features an aluminium frame to keep things nice and stable.
A nice detail is that almost all zippers, both outside and in, have small flaps or pockets to protect from snagging.
Here the medium ICU is put in place. In the picture the zipper on the ICU is closed but in actual use it is supposed to be open before put in place as it is a bit hard to open once there.
The backpack is also prepared for use with hydration systems. Here is a closeup of the flap where the water hose goes.
External side pockets on both sides and multiple compression straps is nice to have. It also has MOLLE/PALS webbings.
Glued zippers on the outside to keep water out and straps to fasten a tripod or skis/snowboard/whatever.
Rubberized bottom to keep things dry no matter where you put it down. It also features a compartment for a rain cover.
Here I've put 3 DA Limiteds, K 50/1.2, DA 18-55 WR, DA* 50-135. Still room for my K-7, charger and some other bits and pieces with some room left over.
I've only had time to use it for some short trips so far. However, it has been able to fit everything I've needed without problem. It is also very comfortable to wear without any hints of chafing or other issues.
The real test will come whenever I get time to fly and visit my parents or when I do a longer forest hike. I have to come back and update my review when it's been through those tests.