Product Review: The Shimoda Action X30 Backpack | Put to the Alaskan Test!

Carly Padrta July 20th, 2023

Welcome to my review of the Shimoda Action X30 backpack Starter Kit. I had purchased the backpack with the medium mirrorless core unit back in February of 2023 from a 3rd party seller - Shimoda was out of the color wanted at the time. My main purpose for the purchase was to keep my Sony A7riii and Sigma 100-400mm & 24-70mm lenses safe on my Alaskan adventures. Prior to this I was using my old snowboarding backpack - not ideal to keep gear protected. I was recommended the Shimoda pack from another Alaska based photographer who has used multiple backpacks from the brand.

Details

Price: $374 USD - this included the backpack plus medium mirrorless inset. Shimoda has recently released a newer version of the backpack so pricing my be different.

Usage

Living in Alaska this pack has been exposed to some very extreme environments. I have hiked with it in temps well into the negatives, left it sitting in snow, excessive rain and sun exposure without any issue. As well as plenty of bushwhacking in thick brush. The fabric is very durable and shows minimal sign of wear.

One incident while hiking on a remote "trail" outside of Juneau, Alaska the pack took a tumble of about 20ft down a steep embankment. I had two lenses and camera body in my pack, as well has my day hiking gear. Despite the the tumble, all gear stayed well protected and zero damage occurred. I don't recommend putting your Shimoda through a fall like this BUT it's good to know that this bag can hold up.

After tumbling about 20ft

I have also taken this pack on multiple fishing trips - fresh and salt water. I have never had issues with it getting exposed water (or fish slime) for prolong periods of time. Although this pack is not water proof it does withstand water very well. I do wipe down the exterior of the pack with simple soapy water after fishing trips. With that I have not noticed any issues with salt water or fishy smells.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• This backpack does its job REALLY well. Definitely made for action.

• There are a ton of smaller details this bag offers - such as stretchy bands to help keep straps secured and tidy looking

Packed for a 4 day vacation

• Great adjustability - I am petite and had no issues

• Tons of pockets/storage options

Cons:

• This version has a hard time fitting a MacBook Pro 16"

• Bit heavy

• On the pricier end but this pack is an investment

Final Thoughts

After using this backpack for the last few months it is safe to say it was well worth the investment. If I update my pack anytime soon it will purely be to get one of the new Action series packs in a newly released colors (I am digging the blue!).

You can find them on Shimoda's website.

* This is not sponsored but I am an affiliate with Shimoda - I do earn a sales commission with this link *