Think Tank Shape Shifter 17 v2 and Perception Pro backpacks review

External design, Shape Shifter

On the outside, the Shape Shifter looks businesslike and purposeful. Made of thick black nylon canvas, it foregoes bright colors and exotic materials, favoring strong fabric, large zippers, and sturdy straps. It will look more at home on the back of a journalist than on a hiking trail.

When zippered and compressed, the bag is a surprising 7.6 cm (3 inches) thick (or thin, depending on how you look at it). Unzip the compression zipper and it thickens a bit. Fill it with equipment and it can become thick and roomy.

The front of the backpack shows a plethora of pockets. On the top, near the front is a small and thin pocket made of soft material; it is meant for a cell phone, sunglasses or other easily scratched items.

Right behind is another, larger pocket. It includes a thin mesh sleeve, slots for memory cards, pens, business cards, batteries and the like. There is a thin looped lanyard to attach keys. We placed a lens inside to give an idea of the depth.

At the bottom are two more pockets. The larger is thin and deep, going to the bottom of the bag. It includes a sleeve which can hold a big tablet (the one shown here is 10 inches).

In front of this larger pocket is a slightly smaller one. It can serve just about any purpose, but is meant to work together with removable straps at the top (and, if needed, bottom) to carry a tripod.

This pocket, along with the straps, is a fine example of the level of adaptability offered by the Shape Shifter. It is deep enough to be able to carry a travel tripod without any other support. With larger tripods, simply attach the removable straps to the top to keep the tripod straight and slip the bottom section inside the pocket.

For even larger tripods (or if one does not want to use the pocket at all) there are hooks at the bottom to attach yet more straps. The pocket can then be used for anything else.

Even the position of the trop straps is selectable. There are two positions possible: near the front or the back. The back hooks will hold the tripod more tightly, with less possible movements, and using the front hooks will free the access to the main compartment’s zippers. These straps are easy to install and remove but, when left in place, they do tend to get in the way. It’s best to use them only when needed.

The reverse side of the backpack keeps the same adaptable mindset that is the hallmark of the Shape Shifter.

The shoulder straps are wide and thick, with good padding which offers some breathability. There are a few hooks and loops on the straps to attach some odds and ends. A standard chest clip is also included.

There is a minimalist hip strap, which can be removed entirely if so desired. It does not offer much in terms of features but gets the job done.

However, the bag offers yet again a clever way to customize its workings to the wearer’s taste. Underneath the bag is a large and strong Velcro patch which lifts to reveal a small cavity. We used a lens to illustrate its depth but since it is open on both sides, using it as a storage compartment is risky (the rain cover could go in there, maybe). Rather, this area can accommodate items from the company’s belt systems. The Shape Shifter can thus evolve with the user. While it’s not a perfect fit, camera cases from the rotation180° line could also be used, with the camera compartment to the front or sides. Any other belt can be used: the system is not restrictive. With some fumbling, it’s even possible to open the belt compartment while wearing the backpack, keeping the belt on while removing the bag.

The back of the Shape Shifter is padded with thick sections of perforated fabric. The central one lifts up (again, a strong Velcro patch holds it in place) to slide onto a suitcase’s handle. There is also a transparent slot meant to display a business card.

Accessed from the top, near the back, is yet another pocket. This one is made to hold a laptop, a tablet or both. The pocket is deep enough to accommodate laptops of almost any size. The tablet compartment is made for tablets 10 inches or smaller but it’s far from a snug fit. Compact laptops could be placed in this sleeve.

On each side, near the bottom, is a Velcro loop made to attach accessories. The bag comes with one: a mesh bottle holder closed by a drawstring.  Many other items could find a home there.

A rain cover is also included.

Verdict

The Shape Shifter 17 v2 from Think tank is the backpack of endless possibilities. It offers a rare level of modularity and customizability. The number of pockets and compartments is impressive, though filling them all up will make the bag heavy and thick.

The “shape shifter” element will be familiar with users of travel suitcases. It is probably unique when applied to camera bags. The system works well, but it’s impossible to open the bag if it is in its compressed form.

The bag is very well made, sturdy and extremely durable. It can be used with confidence in rough situations and will be able to withstand a lot of abuse. On the outside the uniform black coloring might appear a bit drab, but it is certainly serious and, shall we say, professional. The internals are more colorful with light gray fabric and blue touches to accentuate the various pockets and sleeves.

This backpack is not meant for hiking or other high-intensity activities. It would certainly disappoint in these situations. On the other hand, for commuters and photographers on the go, it is a compelling offering.