Belt system, which one?

[marco_30D]

Hi! I'm planning to get a belt system but I'm torn between the three brands. I'm choosing between lowepro, tamrac and thinktank. Can you help me guys choose between the three brands. Pros and cons? Practicallity, comport & durability? Thanks!

[jhom]

I have experience with the Lowepro and Think Tank systems. Of the two, I prefer the Think Tank system. TT has designed their system to be more for the event shooter. It provides for quick access. Also, it is much less bulky. There is much more integration of the various components with each other as well with TT bags and cases. The components are superbly designed and are high quality.

[keener]

I don't have experience with the lowepro or tamrac, but I love my think tank system. I shoot weddings with my speedbelt, two lens holders and two misc pouches for other stuff. Very comfortable and beats hanging stuff off my poor neck.

[P51Mstg]

I've been using the TT for over a year. AMAZING system. Makes me wonder why people carry backpacks to events. Fast to get to everything and you can configure the pouches based on the equipment you use for the day. Also I hooked up a CAMELBAK to mine so I can get something to drink in the process of using it........

It really makes things easy.

Mark H

[JohnJ80]

Think Tank for me. I have a full system of that and I also have the Kinesis stuff. I prefer the TT stuff for sure.

J.

[MikeV99]

TT for me too!

[marco_30D]

Thank for all your comments guys. Is it also good to use this belt system for traveling? I'm going to Singapore next month and very confuse what bag should I use when rooming around the place or should I still use my backpack? What a silly question.:)

[maverickliew]

First of all, welcome to my country! ^^

For traveling, i would go for a bag instead though i will recommend TT anytime as i used it personally. Much depend on the gear that you are planning to bring along during your walk in this little isle.

If you got a bag and planning to buy TT, you can actually buy it here over in Singapore which might be a little tag cheaper due to the exchange rate and tax rebate. Place to buy is TK Foto (http://www.tkfoto.com.sg/) located within the town area.

Happy shopping!

[MikeV99]

I am taking a similar trip next month. I have an TT Airline Security 3.0 that I use when not flying. My approach to flying is to put my empty TT bags and belt in a small suitcase and check it. I carry my camera equipment in a backpack that I can put in the overhead compartment. It is an extra bag, but then I have everything with me.

[fishfoto]

I have been using the Domke belt system since around 1991, and I love them, but for 'security' I switched to the Newswear kit back in 2003, however I have now moved into the Think Tank 'Skin' kit this past spring.

With the Think Tank Skin kit I chose to the use the 'belly dancer' harness over the traditional belt, as I use it as both a 'harness' and a belt, although the belt s great as well. I like the design of the Think Tank Skin system. The pouches are essentially unpadded which I like, the interior design is custom configurable, each pouch has a sewn in rain cover which has proven to be a life saver at times.

Overall having been a belt-system user for the past 18 years, and having used Belt Systes to travel all over the world as an editorial, corporate and private commission photographer the Think Tank Skin system is the best I have used by far.

I wrote about using the Skin system on a round-the-world photo shoot in early 2008 on my site for traveling photos in this post
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/10/think-tank-skin-pouch-belt-system-light-easy-simple-solution-for-traveling-with-your-camera-gear/

I also wrote about combining the Skin kit with a backpack to get around baggage carry on restrictions here:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/11/combining-two-bags-to-create-a-single-carry-on-for-flying-photographers/

Happy Flying!

[marco_30D]

Guys I'm happy to tell you that I took your advice. . . I already bought a think tank modular set and Pro speed belt. I'm gonna use it this sunday. Hope I'll like it. Thanks for your advice.:)

[greazyjungle]

I just got my Newswear Documentary Chestvest in the mail and having only worn it around the house I LOVE IT ALREADY!!!

[JohnJ80]

Ah, when you see sentences in all caps about some sort of camera bag or bag system, you just know you are talking to a bag-a-holic.

J.

[MikeV99]

I just got my Newswear Documentary Chestvest in the mail and having only worn it around the house I LOVE IT ALREADY!!!
Photos and details please. Did you get the all weather version?

[greazyjungle]

No photos yet (but oddly enough it looks just like the pictures on their website...;-)

Not the all weather version, the "documentary" version. I can say it seems 'weather resistant' material. Did two shoots today (Ottawa Senators, and a cultural event in a cathedral) and it is worth it's weight in gold BABY!! Lots of room for everything - but they must have chosen the LOUDEST velcro on the market!! I'm sure it's because it's new...

I was somewhat concerned about being mistaken for a suicide bomber, so I wore a vest with it, but it's well balanced, spreads out the weight and everything is close at hand - and it's snug to the body, not flopping around like in a photo-vest...

[tdodd]

It's not a belt "system" but I've just recently become aware of the Boda bag and it looks quite interesting.

VIDEO (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbVguOK6Q5E)

I have also been considering the Think Tank modular belt system but I'm not sure which way to go at the moment.

[sOid]

It's not a belt "system" but I've just recently become aware of the Boda bag and it looks quite interesting.

VIDEO (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbVguOK6Q5E)

I have also been considering the Think Tank modular belt system but I'm not sure which way to go at the moment.

The Boda bag looks pretty good. Well thought out design. However, I'd go (and I will, once I've got my 5DII) for a ThinkTank Skin Set. It's way more versatile and more compact when the pouches are empty.

[MikeV99]

However, I'd go (and I will, once I've got my 5DII) for a ThinkTank Skin Set. It's way more versatile and more compact when the pouches are empty.
I have the padded TT version. I like the system, but am starting to wonder if I should have gotten the skin set. Do you have any issues of wearing all that equipment without padding?

[Mark Passmore]

For my press work I use a Newswear Foul Weather chestvest, but don't use the shoulder straps. So I end up wearing it more like a oversized bumbag (Fanny Pack).
I find this setup to be ideal, as it allows fast access to my gear.
However, I am on the lookout for a more subtle arrangement for my wedding assignments. I am considering using a Domke F-803 satchel as a lens bag (for Prime Lenses), with the addition of 1 or 2 Newswear pouches (for zoom Lenses) on my belt.

[tdodd]

TTP Skin Set Review (http://www.gavingough.com/2008/11/review-think-tank-skin-set-belt-harness/)

[sOid]

I have the padded TT version. I like the system, but am starting to wonder if I should have gotten the skin set. Do you have any issues of wearing all that equipment without padding?

I don't have it yet :) However, I'm sure I wouldn't have issues with the amount of padding. I hate the extra bulk it bring when I'm out and shooting. Most of the gear I've got can take a beating or two ;)

[kja]

Which belt of the ThinkTank are you guys using? I am looking to get the skin set and a digital holster but can't decide on which actual belt...

[MikeV99]

Steroid with Pixel Harness. Very comfortable for all day wear. I have just ordered the skin modular set. I think I will combine some of those with the padded items I have. Best of both worlds.

[sOid]

Steroid with Pixel Harness. Very comfortable for all day wear. I have just ordered the skin modular set. I think I will combine some of those with the padded items I have. Best of both worlds.

Any chance you can make some pics for us? I really wonder what it looks like combining the two sets!

[JohnJ80]

The Boda bag looks pretty good. Well thought out design. However, I'd go (and I will, once I've got my 5DII) for a ThinkTank Skin Set. It's way more versatile and more compact when the pouches are empty.

I thought it looked good too ... until I looked at the price. Yikes! That thing is expensive.

J.

[marco_30D]

I also got the Pro Speed belt with the modular set.

[motion_projekt]

I just got my Newswear Documentary Chestvest in the mail and having only worn it around the house I LOVE IT ALREADY!!!

i have the digital chestvest.

i love it.

hurray for the jihad vest!

[petris]

I bought TTP Skin set, Pro belt and Pixel racing harness. I used these in weekend(abt. 6h) and i like it a lot ( belt, 75, chimp and flash skin).
What is best, it ain't be like too filled, let me move free. High quality products :D

[MikeV99]

Any chance you can make some pics for us? I really wonder what it looks like combining the two sets!
Have not yet time to test it and am on the road at the moment. I'll try to remember the request for pics when I get back next month.

[claybuster]

I plan on getting a Think Tank Pro speed belt and a pixel racing harness. My question is, are the sizes for the belts accurate? I have a 33" to 34" waist and was planing on getting the medium pro belt 32"-36" waist. Will this size be OK to wear over my pants and belt?
Mike

[tdodd]

I plan on getting a Think Tank Pro speed belt and a pixel racing harness. My question is, are the sizes for the belts accurate? I have a 33" to 34" waist and was planing on getting the medium pro belt 32"-36" waist. Will this size be OK to wear over my pants and belt?
Mike
According to the website you need to measure yourself accurately and make allowance for your existing trouser belt that will be beneath the speed belt. i.e. measure over the top of your clothing and any existing belt. Do not rely on your trouser waist measurement for your sizing.

[MikeV99]

I have a 38" waist -- I bought the extra large 41" - 64" TT Steroid Speed Belt and it works for me. HTHs.

[claybuster]

According to the website you need to measure yourself accurately and make allowance for your existing trouser belt that will be beneath the speed belt. i.e. measure over the top of your clothing and any existing belt. Do not rely on your trouser waist measurement for your sizing.
I missed that on the website. Thanks!
Mike

[MDJAK]

One of the world's top photojournalists.
http://karlgrobl.com/EquipmentReviews/CameraBags.htm

However, he's since switched to ThinkTank belt system.

[blackshadow]

I bought TTP Skin set, Pro belt and Pixel racing harness. I used these in weekend(abt. 6h) and i like it a lot ( belt, 75, chimp and flash skin).
What is best, it ain't be like too filled, let me move free. High quality products :D

Exactly what I bought and very impressed with it. I did a bit of a write up on it here (http://www.blackshadow.com.au/2009/02/think-tank-photo-skins-set-review/)

[bohdank]

I've been looking for a solution for event photography. A backpack (fastpack 200) is comfortable but still not the quickest and most comfortable way to switch lenses when in crowds. The TT system looks like it would work well for me but I have one reservation.

I often travel and find myself in less than safe street environments... mostly snatch and grab. Has anyone had any issues/concerns with the belt systems ?

[SteveNC]

I've been looking for a solution for event photography. A backpack (fastpack 200) is comfortable but still not the quickest and most comfortable way to switch lenses when in crowds. The TT system looks like it would work well for me but I have one reservation.

I often travel and find myself in less than safe street environments... mostly snatch and grab. Has anyone had any issues/concerns with the belt systems ?


Same here--I'm kind of worried about having belt pouches that sneaky hands may try to access without my knowledge. Backpacks are even worse, though, because the straps can be cut or the bottom sliced open leaving you your gear scattered all over the street like a piñata had just exploded.

[ANGUS]

Same here--I'm kind of worried about having belt pouches that sneaky hands may try to access without my knowledge. Backpacks are even worse, though, because the straps can be cut or the bottom sliced open leaving you your gear scattered all over the street like a piñata had just exploded.

I use a pro belt or belly dancer so pouches are all infront of me so theft is alot less of an issue

[bohdank]

It still screams, "I've got expensive camera equipment, and lots of it".

The more I think about it, the more I am inclined to buy a vest. I really would only need room for 2 smaller lenses, although also carrying the 70-200 would be ideal. Maybe a vest and a belt pouch for the 70-200. The heat of a vest is not an issue for me.

[SteveNC]

It still screams, "I've got expensive camera equipment, and lots of it".

The more I think about it, the more I am inclined to buy a vest. I really would only need room for 2 smaller lenses, although also carrying the 70-200 would be ideal. Maybe a vest and a belt pouch for the 70-200. The heat of a vest is not an issue for me.

In my personal opinion, vests are the the least ideal option available. How many locals wear vests around? If you're trying to blend in and avoid looking like you have expensive stuff strapped to your person, I think an old school backpack may be the best option available.

[bohdank]

There is clearly no "good" solution just a number of competing mediocre ones.

I'm not so much concerned about drawing attention. After all, having an expensive camera in your hand or around your neck is sufficient advertising. More concerned about snatch and grab rather then getting mugged. A backpack is usually out of line of sight and suggests you won't be able to chase after someone. A belt system just seems "easy" with those individual pouches hanging off of it. A vest seems more part of your body, like clothing. Actually I see tourists with vests even though they do not have any camera equipment other than a P&S. I think it's more "normal" than a belt system and less temptation than a backpack.

I think I'm going to look for a suitable vest. It can always serve double duty when not carring camera equipment.

[ANGUS]

There is clearly no "good" solution just a number of competing mediocre ones.

I'm not so much concerned about drawing attention. After all, having an expensive camera in your hand or around your neck is sufficient advertising. More concerned about snatch and grab rather then getting mugged. A backpack is usually out of line of sight and suggests you won't be able to chase after someone. A belt system just seems "easy" with those individual pouches hanging off of it. A vest seems more part of your body, like clothing. Actually I see tourists with vests even though they do not have any camera equipment other than a P&S. I think it's more "normal" than a belt system and less temptation than a backpack.

I think I'm going to look for a suitable vest. It can always serve double duty when not carring camera equipment.

I have close to no fear of theft with my belt pack, i think more people are scared of it thinking its a suicide bomb :lol:

[SteveNC]

I have close to no fear of theft with my belt pack, i think more people are scared of it thinking its a suicide bomb :lol:


Seriously I've been worried more about that lately than anything else - look at this highly regarded vest system (Newswear - source: http://www.newswear.com/mmediumdetail.htm)

http://www.newswear.com/images/5.7/Newswear-115.jpg

http://www.newswear.com/images/5.7/Newswear-60.jpg

^ Seriously??


http://www.newswear.com/images/Newswear-131.jpg

[SteveNC]

There is clearly no "good" solution just a number of competing mediocre ones.

I'm not so much concerned about drawing attention. After all, having an expensive camera in your hand or around your neck is sufficient advertising. More concerned about snatch and grab rather then getting mugged. A backpack is usually out of line of sight and suggests you won't be able to chase after someone. A belt system just seems "easy" with those individual pouches hanging off of it. A vest seems more part of your body, like clothing. Actually I see tourists with vests even though they do not have any camera equipment other than a P&S. I think it's more "normal" than a belt system and less temptation than a backpack.

I think I'm going to look for a suitable vest. It can always serve double duty when not carrying camera equipment.

I agree, it depends on what "look" you are trying to achieve as well as what look you are specifically trying to avoid.

Personally I shoot in developing countries and other resource-poor settings where there are hardly any tourists. Don't get me wrong, these are pristine and beautiful environments where there are often no other people, yet getting there is the real adventure. Keeping a low profile is of utmost importance. If I were to walk around with a vest I would definitely stick out and heads would turn. Sometimes these types of situations make people do what they wouldn't otherwise do, so I try to avoid sticking out with anything whatsoever that makes my gear look like someone's food for their family for the week or month. I find that in most places many people are carrying some sort of bag on themselves, so I try to wear whatever the locals are wearing and that includes a worn backpack.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_HrQ1sStotnA/SRMxhdjTBMI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/ZQjAlM5xcEY/s800/facebook_album-117.jpg

I find that this pack by mountainsmith has several advantages, in order of importance:

1. Is not black like every other camera backpack in the world (it seems)
2. opens from the side facing my back, so it is impossible t for someone to unzip the thing without my knowledge.
3. can clip the bottom part of the pack to my waist belt with a carabiner so no one can pull it off me without my knowledge, and I can fasten it down to stationary objects. Avoids the "grab and run" situation if I put my bag down for a second, eating lunch outside, etc.
4. Well padded and comfortable
...etc etc etc

I don't think any belt or vest system will work in this environment, but again this is all my personal opinion and suits my personal needs/wants. In fact I just purchased a Think Tank belt modular system for other situations (around town, events, sports, etc).

[MikeV99]

Seriously I've been worried more about that lately than anything else - look at this highly regarded vest system (Newswear - source: http://www.newswear.com/mmediumdetail.htm)

This photo shows straps that are over the shoulder. I assume those are individual camera straps?

351808

This photo shows some bags hanging down on each side. Are those part of the system?

351809

Did you consider either the Digital Chestvest (http://www.newswear.com/mdigitaldetail.htm) or the Foul Weather Chestvest (http://www.newswear.com/mfouldetail.htm)?

What do you use to transport everything when you are not wearing the Chestvest?

Thanks

[SteveNC]

To be honest with you I'm not sure how the system is designed or if that light brown is part of the system. I think that particular person is wearing some sort of vest over his newswear chestvest system, but this I cannot say for sure. I've ruled this system out because it (seriously) resembles military gear or something that a terrorist would wear in a movie. Can you imagine yourself wearing that through security in an airport? Or even walking into an airport looking like that? A wedding or other event?

[ANGUS]

To be honest with you I'm not sure how the system is designed or if that light brown is part of the system. I think that particular person is wearing some sort of vest over his newswear chestvest system, but this I cannot say for sure. I've ruled this system out because it (seriously) resembles military gear or something that a terrorist would wear in a movie. Can you imagine yourself wearing that through security in an airport? Or even walking into an airport looking like that? A wedding or other event?

HAHAHAHAHA!!! Its not designed for use around an airport but i cannot forsee any issues, its too obvious to be anything.

[sOid]

I agree, it depends on what "look" you are trying to achieve as well as what look you are specifically trying to avoid.

Personally I shoot in developing countries and other resource-poor settings where there are hardly any tourists. Don't get me wrong, these are pristine and beautiful environments where there are often no other people, yet getting there is the real adventure. Keeping a low profile is of utmost importance. If I were to walk around with a vest I would definitely stick out and heads would turn. Sometimes these types of situations make people do what they wouldn't otherwise do, so I try to avoid sticking out with anything whatsoever that makes my gear look like someone's food for their family for the week or month. I find that in most places many people are carrying some sort of bag on themselves, so I try to wear whatever the locals are wearing and that includes a worn backpack.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_HrQ1sStotnA/SRMxhdjTBMI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/ZQjAlM5xcEY/s800/facebook_album-117.jpg

I find that this pack by mountainsmith has several advantages, in order of importance:

1. Is not black like every other camera backpack in the world (it seems)
2. opens from the side facing my back, so it is impossible t for someone to unzip the thing without my knowledge.
3. can clip the bottom part of the pack to my waist belt with a carabiner so no one can pull it off me without my knowledge, and I can fasten it down to stationary objects. Avoids the "grab and run" situation if I put my bag down for a second, eating lunch outside, etc.
4. Well padded and comfortable
...etc etc etc

I don't think any belt or vest system will work in this environment, but again this is all my personal opinion and suits my personal needs/wants. In fact I just purchased a Think Tank belt modular system for other situations (around town, events, sports, etc).
I have to disagree with you. Some well known travel photographers, from www.pixelatedimage.com and www.gavingough.com (among others) use the Think Tank Skin set on their traveling adventures. And they swear by it.

edit: I think it's especially unrelevant in places where there aren't a lot of tourists. Thieves are known to rob tourists at crowded and touristic places.

[tdodd]

I just came across a video review of the Think Tank Skin Set....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-M2mQiMSa8s

I've been tempted several times to hit the "Buy" button on this set, but having seen the video it looks huge to me. Ergonomically I'm sure it is very sound, but I would feel a right Charlie turning up to a wedding or social event (especially as a casual photographer) with that lot or even just some of it hanging round my middle. I'm sure it would not look out of place in a war zone, however.

My typical gear for a pro wedding gig would be....

1D3
50D (40D as a backup)
16-35 (optional)
17-55 and/or 24-70
70-200/2.8IS
50/1.4
85/1.8
580EX x 2

I know it's all got to fit somewhere, but even so.....? I'm also considering an Urban Disguise (probably 60) as an option, either as well as or instead of the Skin Set. I don't know of any dealers near me where I can go and check this stuff out so I'm really going to have to make my choice based on web reviews. It's a tough one. :(

I don't tend to go to scary places, so I'm not bothered about ultimate stealth, but I'd like a solution that I can use when on vacation as well, without looking like a nob or embarrassing my girlfriend. At the moment a Slingshot 200 serves me quite well for casual photography (like vacations), but I don't find it really speedy to use for rapid equipment juggling. I certainly wouldn't want to wear a backpack for weddings. It would like quite ridiculous with a jacket and would be uncomfortably hot in all wedding situations. I've also considered large waist packs, like the Lowepro Off Trail II but somehow everything with sufficient capacity looks so vast, ungainly and "unsexy".

I guess the obvious solution is to shoot with one body, a couple of lenses and one flash, and stash backups and alternatives in the car or some safe storage point. The thing there is - you don't want to be shooting the wedding service with only one body to hand, just in case, and you want your fast primes nearby just in case the f/2.8 zooms don't cut it, and so it goes on. AAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

[dandig]

You could try the Think Tank Change up. You can fit your backup gear in that while you shoot with the main body. If you need a tiny bit more room it has the rails on the side for adding a component of the skin set if needed. I use my chnage up for so many things. I also find it great as a travel/walkaround bag. It'll fit my 5dMKII, 24-105 and 70-200 then i just attach one of the straps as a shoulder strap and tuck away the belt part of it. If you are doing a lengthy walk you can always use the belt part again. I think its the most versatile bag i have ever owned.
Check out a special offer in my sig below too.

[xenomorphic]

Not the all weather version, the "documentary" version. I can say it seems 'weather resistant' material. Did two shoots today (Ottawa Senators, and a cultural event in a cathedral) and it is worth it's weight in gold BABY!! Lots of room for everything - but they must have chosen the LOUDEST velcro on the market!! I'm sure it's because it's new...


Someone posted a tip a while back to buy a strip of velcro, split it and affix the "soft" side to the "sticky" velcro on your bag or pouch pocket/flap when you are in an area where you'd prefer to be as quiet as possible. At other times just keep the velcro strip in your bag. Works like a charm.

James

[ANGUS]

I just came across a video review of the Think Tank Skin Set....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-M2mQiMSa8s

I've been tempted several times to hit the "Buy" button on this set, but having seen the video it looks huge to me. Ergonomically I'm sure it is very sound, but I would feel a right Charlie turning up to a wedding or social event (especially as a casual photographer) with that lot or even just some of it hanging round my middle. I'm sure it would not look out of place in a war zone, however.

My typical gear for a pro wedding gig would be....

1D3
50D (40D as a backup)
16-35 (optional)
17-55 and/or 24-70
70-200/2.8IS
50/1.4
85/1.8
580EX x 2

I know it's all got to fit somewhere, but even so.....? I'm also considering an Urban Disguise (probably 60) as an option, either as well as or instead of the Skin Set. I don't know of any dealers near me where I can go and check this stuff out so I'm really going to have to make my choice based on web reviews. It's a tough one. :(

I don't tend to go to scary places, so I'm not bothered about ultimate stealth, but I'd like a solution that I can use when on vacation as well, without looking like a nob or embarrassing my girlfriend. At the moment a Slingshot 200 serves me quite well for casual photography (like vacations), but I don't find it really speedy to use for rapid equipment juggling. I certainly wouldn't want to wear a backpack for weddings. It would like quite ridiculous with a jacket and would be uncomfortably hot in all wedding situations. I've also considered large waist packs, like the Lowepro Off Trail II but somehow everything with sufficient capacity looks so vast, ungainly and "unsexy".

I guess the obvious solution is to shoot with one body, a couple of lenses and one flash, and stash backups and alternatives in the car or some safe storage point. The thing there is - you don't want to be shooting the wedding service with only one body to hand, just in case, and you want your fast primes nearby just in case the f/2.8 zooms don't cut it, and so it goes on. AAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

I have the same kit he shows in the video but you dont need to use it all and when a pouch is empty it sits close to flat to your body, i use (L-R) Skin 75, Chimp Cage, Strobe, Skin 50

EDIT: They also have about 5 stores around London where you can see the stuff, and it is cheaper in store then it is from the USA, but buy soon before the price goes up because of the exchange rate

[tdodd]

I have the same kit he shows in the video but you dont need to use it all and when a pouch is empty it sits close to flat to your body, i use (L-R) Skin 75, Chimp Cage, Strobe, Skin 50

EDIT: They also have about 5 stores around London where you can see the stuff, and it is cheaper in store then it is from the USA, but buy soon before the price goes up because of the exchange rate
Cheers. I know you can pick and choose which pouches to use, so it needn't look that bulky permanently, if ever. I think maybe that holster he was using did not aid the appearance. I probably will get the set.

As for the London stores, it's about 90 minutes each way by foot and train, to get into central London for me. By car it would take longer and parking would be a nightmare, but thanks for the pointer. I put "London" in my location because globally I suspect it has more significance than "Essex" to most people, but really I hate travelling into London. Apart from one photographic conference last January I cannot remember the last time I travelled into central London. It's just not something I choose to do. My local camera store has a smattering of Lowepro stuff and some no-name bags, but that's it. That's why I make my purchases from the internet.

[ANGUS]

Cheers. I know you can pick and choose which pouches to use, so it needn't look that bulky permanently, if ever. I think maybe that holster he was using did not aid the appearance. I probably will get the set.

As for the London stores, it's about 90 minutes each way by foot and train, to get into central London for me. By car it would take longer and parking would be a nightmare, but thanks for the pointer. I put "London" in my location because globally I suspect it has more significance than "Essex" to most people, but really I hate travelling into London. Apart from one photographic conference last January I cannot remember the last time I travelled into central London. It's just not something I choose to do. My local camera store has a smattering of Lowepro stuff and some no-name bags, but that's it. That's why I make my purchases from the internet.

Fair enough, i know Essex :D Here is a list of their UK stores http://thinktankphoto.com/purchase/to_buy_international.php#United_Kingdom_rtlrs . One in Cardiff, Leicester, Newcastle, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Harfeild, Hampshire, Manchester and Sheffeild.

[glbtrekker]

Back to the OP's initial question. I know that everybody here recommends the Think Tank system. Can anybody tell me why? Is it more comfortable, versatile, compact, what?

Also, how do the holsters compare between companies? I've thought about using the Lowepro Toploader holster instead of the Think Tank digital because it will provide a place for my speedlite and includes a chest harness which would save some money. Will it work on the Think Tank belt?

[ANGUS]

Will it work on the Think Tank belt?

Yes but only in the ROTATE position, not in the locked position

[tdodd]

Decision made - today I have ordered a Think Tank Skin Set with Pro Speed Belt and also an Urban Disguise 60. Delivery might take a couple of weeks as stock is ordered in on demand. These will supplement, rather than replace, my Slingshot 200 and Airport Acceleration, so basically I will have a variety of solutions to meet different needs.

When I have the gear I'll put some pictures up somewhere useful.

[fishfoto]

Tim,

I love the Think Tank Skin/Belly Dancer set up. I have used mine quite a bit over the past year.

You can read my write ups on two ways I use them here:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/10/think-tank-skin-pouch-belt-system-light-easy-simple-solution-for-traveling-with-your-camera-gear/

...and here:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/11/combining-two-bags-to-create-a-single-carry-on-for-flying-photographers/

[rang]

Hi! I'm planning to get a belt system but I'm torn between the three brands. I'm choosing between lowepro, tamrac and thinktank. Can you help me guys choose between the three brands. Pros and cons? Practicallity, comport & durability? Thanks!

Sold off three fully kitted out belt systems from both Tamrac and LowePro.
Switched to all Think Tank...not missing anything.
Also converted all my rolling gear from Tamrac/LowePro to several models of TT.
Again...not missing a thing.

[tdodd]

Tim,

I love the Think Tank Skin/Belly Dancer set up. I have used mine quite a bit over the past year.

You can read my write ups on two ways I use them here:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/10/think-tank-skin-pouch-belt-system-light-easy-simple-solution-for-traveling-with-your-camera-gear/

...and here:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2008/06/11/combining-two-bags-to-create-a-single-carry-on-for-flying-photographers/
Steven, your site is one of several I found with reviews of the Skin Set. I have not read a bad word about this belt system anywhere (other than one numpty who complained he would have liked more padding ??? - isn't that why there is the Modulus Set?). Thanks for sharing your thoughts so the rest of us may benefit. My UD 60 has arrived, and very nice it is too, but the Skins will be shipped separately.