GEAR
BUYERS’ GUIDE
MANFROTTO ADVANCED ROLLING BAG III £189/$259 manfrotto.com
LOWEPRO WHISTLER RL 400 AW II £319/$300 lowepro.com Recycled fabrics are used in the Whistler RL 400 AW II, showcasing Lowepro’s efforts towards sustainability through the Green Line project. The bag now includes 55% recycled materials in its webbings, bindings, zipper tape, cords and meshes to reduce its environmental impact. The RL 400 is an all-weather, carry- on legal roller capable of swallowing up even a cinema camera and some lenses. Its removable camera insert allows the Whistler to transform from a camera bag into a heavy-duty travel roller. Building on the all-weather materials and durability of the Whistler backpacks, the RL 400 rugged roller offers the same robust design in a rolling case. With grab handles and a retractable handle, it’s easy to transport and offers ample protection. It holds two camera bodies, one with a 200mm lens attached, six lenses, a foldable drone with controller, GoPro, 15in laptop and ten-inch tablet.
MANFROTTO PRO LIGHT CINELOADER £211/$320 manfrotto.com This large Pro Light Cineloader Bag from Manfrotto is built for video use, rather than being a stills camera bag repurposed for filmmaking. It’s ideal for single-person filmmakers or small crews needing secure storage and transport for various gear on and off the set. The beauty of this traditional bag is its ability to store a fully rigged camera – whether mirrorless, camcorder or cinema camera – saving time by eliminating the M-Guard dividers to cushion your kit but without taking up much space. The payload capacity of up to 25kg/55lb means you can haul plenty at once. The semi- rigid top panel allows you to fasten a slider or tripod without crushing the contents of the main compartment, too. Manfrotto also offers optional extras for the Cineloader range, from internal stash pouches to rain covers and more. need to disassemble accessories. It includes Manfrotto’s padded
For a discreet rolling camera bag that doesn’t advertise its valuable contents, check out the Manfrotto Advanced Rolling Bag III. With a 25.5-litre capacity and recent price cuts, it offers great value without feeling like a budget option. Part of Manfrotto’s Advanced range, this bag meets international carry-on size restrictions and easily holds a mirrorless camera with a 70-200mm f/4 lens, a second body and up to six smaller lenses. The main front opening boasts heavy- duty 10mm YKK zips, while the padded camera compartment features Manfrotto’s well-known M-Guard padded dividers. Transparent pockets help organise small accessories, with space for a 15-inch laptop pocket. Dual side straps hold two tripods or a water bottle. The bag is water- repellent and includes a rain cover. Padlock-compatible zippers add gear security, while the removable rain cover offers weather protection and extra safety.
Pros: Eco-conscious, no compromises Cons: Orange style is not for everyone
Pros: Fantastic value for money Cons: Plain looks
Pros: Made for video use Cons: Doesn’t have wheels
MANFROTTO PRO LIGHT RELOADER SWITCH-55 £332/$519 manfrotto.com
The Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Switch-55 earns its name from its 55cm height and ability to switch into a backpack. This offers multiple carrying options: wear it on your back, use the side handle or pull it along with mirrorless bodies, four lenses, an external hard drive, spare batteries, radio mics and a gimbal, monitor or a 400mm f/2.8 lens. The wheels are user-serviceable, ensuring the bag will provide many years its wheels and telescopic handle. Airline carry-on legal, it fits two
of service. There is also a TSA-approved, built-in combination zipper lock. For weather protection, the bag features a fold- out rain protector. External connections are provided for attaching a tripod or other gear like light stands. The light-grey interior fabric makes it easier to locate gear in low light. The inner section is easy to modify and includes thick dividers to cushion your kit.
Pros: Waterproof and rugged Cons: Only comes in black
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