Any Lowepro Dryzone Rover owners?

[aridan]

Hi all,

I'm still in the quest for the ultimate backpack to suit my needs. I really like the Dakine Sequence but not sure how much I can really pack in it (Great price and EXCELLENT design). Then there is the Crumpler Karachi Outpost, which looks great, but extremely expensive given the alternatives, plus it does not offer any additional pockets/storage options outside the main equipment compartment. I also like both due to the added security with the zipper being on the back, which is excellent against muggers when on the go.

So, while contemplating between the above two, I stopped the other day at a local photo store to check out some of the inventory. They had the Lowepro Dryzone Rover, which I really liked. It offers ample storage plus a top compartment for other daily stuff. The only thing I wasn't sure about (and this is when I need any Dryzone owners to chime in) was the water tight zipper on the photo compartment. It was a real PITA to open and close due to its unique water seal design. I was wondering if any of you guys can offer your 2 cents on it. Does it ease up with time? I literally had to pull so hard on it that I thought I'm gonna rip that sucker. :eek: Otherwise, this pack is great but I don't want to buy something, which will be a pain to utilize.

I couldn't care less for the water seal feature as I'm not a big nature adventurer as well as the hydropack, which I could do without as well. But I really like the overall design with ample storage capacity for photo gear with the addition of a top compartment for other stuff I fit in when I travel.


Thanks for any advice. Much appreciated! :)

Dryzone Rover by Lowepro:

http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZrover_yl_left_L.jpg

http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZrover_yl_H2oStuff_left_L.jpg

http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZrover_yl_Tripod_rt_L.jpg

http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZrover_yl_left_stuffed_L.jpg

http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZrover_yl_H2oClip_left_L.jpg


http://lowepro.com/images/products/large/DZRover_LA_L.jpg

[timnosenzo]

I have one, I love it for hiking/biking/general outdoors stuff. The zipper will always be a little tough, but it helps to keep it lubed up.

Check out this review here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=392396&highlight=dryzone

I'd recommend it for specific outdoor use, but not for everyday use.

[aridan]

I have one, I love it for hiking/biking/general outdoors stuff. The zipper will always be a little tough, but it helps to keep it lubed up.

Check out this review here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=392396&highlight=dryzone

I'd recommend it for specific outdoor use, but not for everyday use.

Thanks.

Couple of questions:

1. Can you list the equipment you are able to fit in it?
2. Why wouldn't it be good for everyday use?

[calicokat]

You can leave the large water tight zipper open and use the smaller zipper for ease of use and everyday use. The large zipper needs to be lubed regulary, it is not that bad to use when lubed. Chances are, the bag in the store was not lubed, it comes inside the bag

[timnosenzo]

1. Can you list the equipment you are able to fit in it?

In the bottom, I can fit my 5D w/ 24-105 attached (with a grip, if desired) along with my 17-40, 70-200, 100 macro, and a flash. These things definitely fit better when you leave the grip at home, but its possible. I keep the hoods in the top part, saves a lot of space.


2. Why wouldn't it be good for everyday use?

For me, its too big and heavy, and its seems like overkill using a waterproof bag everyday. I suppose you could, but when I bought the bag I had a pretty specific purpose in mind for it.

[silvioi]

I was interested in this bag and couple of owners told me this - if you don't really need the water sealing feature there are better options.
after some thinking I agreed with that and figure out that having to struggle & lube the zipper all the time make no sense if I don't need the water sealing feature.. give it a thought it makes sense..
If you like design you can try the lowepro Rover II AW bag, very similar design just with no zipper issues & cheaper as well.
eventually I gonna go for the lowepro Primus (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=398725&highlight=Primus) bag
also a dual component bag, less equipment space so it depends on your gear but it has its own advantages
like quick access pocket & back opening for extra safety (and a "kengero" style pocket for clothing) , give it a look, its also a nice option.