Looking for a small bag but have a lot of gear? A Lowepro Toploader 75AW review:

[picture-this]

Are you looking for a small bag but are worried about not having enough space for extra lenses? Don't think a backpack that you have to take off every time you want to get at your camera is the only option.

You may want to check out the Lowepro Toploader 75AW. This is a very slim yet versatile bag. It consists of a deep main compartment, with a two way zipper on the top for very easy camera access and a front cargo pocket that can be made into two sections and accessed from the top or bottom. The AW in it's name stands for All Weather as it has a rain cover that straps over the top zippered area to prevent leaks. The great thing about this bag is there are two carrying methods, shoulder strap or Chest rig (included)

Now I know your thinking dam, I have a long lens or lenses where the hell am I gona put them? I must need a larger bag… Nope!

Though the bag is small the dimensions are deep and wide enough to hold a professional SLR body with grip even when coupled to such lenses as the 70-200 2.8L IS or 100-400L (hoods reversed) or two smaller lenses. There is a slim area beside the length of the lens for accessories such as a blower or off shoe cord. The top lid has a zippered pocket to hold media and lens cloths. While the front cargo pocket is large enough to hold a pro flash and a few other items.

Sounds good but I have multiple large lenses that I just cant go without.

This is where the versatility of the bag really comes into play. Use of lens cases (sold sep) and the Slip Lock system allow you to up your capacity to a Pro SLR body + three large sized lenses or water bottle.

My kit that I fit into this bag:

Canon 20D/Vertical grip
70-200 2.8L IS with tripod collar
24-70 2.8L
10-22 3.5-4.5 USM
580EX flash
Charger
Extra battery
Off shoe cord2
Remote switch RS-80E3
cleaning cloth
extra media
tripod mounting plate

lenses not on camera sit in lens cases models 4 and 4s

For a night on the town the lens cases are removed and it is used with the shoulder strap. If I am out on a serious photo mission the chest strap is on and the top lid zipper is undone for rapid camera access.

Pros: All of the above. lifetime warranty, Perfect bag for someone using a wheelchair.
Cons: Base padding could be a bit thicker , The chest strap is a little hard to get off your body.



Price: bag: $90 CAD lens cases: $20 CAD (each)

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[tim]

Man you gota get to a dentist, those teeth aren't pretty ;)

[Skip Souza]

Those northern winters are really tough on the complection!!!
Thanks for the informative review, much better that the info/pix on retailers sites.

[CoolToolGuy]

I have a similar setup as my default carry bag. I have the Toploader Zoom AW, which is a similar size as the 75, and the same large lens pouch. Instead of a second lens pouch I have the LowePro mesh water bottle holder. Many times I want to have a drink with me all day, and it works very well. If I really want to carry more equipment, the water bottle holder works in a pinch, especially if you keep your lenses in pouches.

I carry the 20D with grip, the 24-70 L, the 70-200 f4L (in the large pouch), 2 C-POLs in the lid, spare batteries and CF cards in the pockets, along with the Canon manual and miscellaneous goodies. The large lens pouch will fit any two of my primes up to the 100mm f2, or any of my other lenses (except the 400mm).

This is a great setup for me.

Have Fun,

[picture-this]

It isn't me. It's actually one of the Price Is Right models that got mauled by an octapuss while on vacation in the Bermuda triangle, you probably read about it in the tabloids. Since then she has lowered her modeling rates, you could say the price was right.

[Skip Souza]

You better not let her read this.

[exposingmyself]

:lol:

[SidW]

Great review. I'm looking for something like this. This one just might do me.

Sid

[Jarhead]

I concur, this is a great bag! I have one that I carry my 20D w/grip and EF 75-300 IS USM.

JZ

[malla1962]

I have the zoom70 and can just about fit my 20d with grip and 100-400L in to it.I think i need the 75 now the 20d is sold.Bit tight for my 1d and 100-400L.I found it great for airshows.:D:D

[DocMart]

I saw the Super Trekker AW II over at www.sweetdeal.ca (http://www.sweetdeal.ca)

It's also made by Lowepro. Price is pretty steep though. Is that kind of bag worth the investment?

[jylitalo]

I've been using Toploader 75AW for 6-8 months now (20D, 17-40/4 with hood and one prime (50/2.5 or 85/1.8) in it). Sometimes, I have added Lens Case 3 (and 70-200/4 + 1.4x TC in it) on one side and SIGG water bottle on the other side (to balance it :). There are only few bad things that I can say about this bag.
1) with chest harness, I can't see where my feets are. Normally this is not an issue, but if your hiking (with backpack on your back) on rocky terrain or using narrow bridge/rocks to cross river, it will slow you down.
2) if your carrying bag without additional lens cases, you probably want to have flat surface or someone to offer helping hand, when you switch lenses. With shoulder bag or additional lens cases on toploader, this operation is whole lot easier.
3) bag itself has raincover, but additional lens cases don't have any additional protection against rain.

On social events like weddings, etc., I prefer to have something like Lowepro Stealth Reporter with me, but for all the rest, I am using my Toploader with chest harness or shoulder strap.

[khisanthax]

I've used this bag for the past several months, I got it to go hiking since it can go over the shoulder or over the chest and I absolutely love it. It's the best bag I own, it's relatively small but allows me to carry a camera w/lens, an extra lens, flash, batteries extra cf card and one or two items. I think it's a great investment.

[chancellor]

PictureThis, thank you for the review. I received my new 20D with the vertical grip and new 70-200 2.8L USM IS from B&H. I also own the 7e with 28-200 lens and speedlight 420ex. Planning to have the 70-200L on the camera attached and wanted to ask opinions: do I need 75AW or 70AW will be enough to carry 20D+grip, 70-200 attached, spare 28-200 and the flash?

Many thanks.

[CoolToolGuy]

An update: The Toploader Zoom AW does not work well with the 1D MKII N, so I got the 75AW for it, along with the large lens pouch and water bottle pouch. It fills the bill as a quick grab & go bag.

Have Fun,

[chancellor]

PictureThis, thank you for the review. I received my new 20D with the vertical grip and new 70-200 2.8L USM IS from B&H. I also own the 7e with 28-200 lens and speedlight 420ex. Planning to have the 70-200L on the camera attached and wanted to ask opinions: do I need 75AW or 70AW will be enough to carry 20D+grip, 70-200 attached, spare 28-200 and the flash?

Many thanks.


Just came back from B&H with Lowepro Toploader 75 AW. Happy to report that 20D+grip with 70-200 2.8L IS fits nicely. Though, not much else room left for anything else - I can barely fit the 420ex in the side pocket, but really tight.

Cheers.

[jylitalo]

I've been using Toploader 75AW for 6-8 months now (20D, 17-40/4 with hood and one prime (50/2.5 or 85/1.8) in it). Sometimes, I have added Lens Case 3 (and 70-200/4 + 1.4x TC in it) on one side and SIGG water bottle on the other side (to balance it :). There are only few bad things that I can say about this bag.
...
On social events like weddings, etc., I prefer to have something like Lowepro Stealth Reporter with me, but for all the rest, I am using my Toploader with chest harness or shoulder strap.

To continue with my original rant, when your moving around in urban environment and you need some additional stuff with you (i.e. laptop, notes, clothes for weekend, etc.), toploader is not ideal solution, because at least for me toploader + backpack won't work well together unless you use toploader with chest harness, which doesn't fit well into urban scene. At least for me, toploader with shoulder strap and backpack together have bad effect to my walking since it puts too much weight on one side.
I'll probably have to get Lowepro Rover II AW or something similar where you can have camera with one or two lenses and still leave plenty of storage for other stuff. Other solution would be to have small padded pouches, which can safely store camera and one or two lenses and which would fit into my normal backpacks (since even Lowepro toploader 65AW is little bit too big for it).

[KennyG]

It is also versatile enough to carry a 300mm 2.8IS with hood reversed. You have to strip the dividers out, but it does the job.

[sageone]

Great review...I have two types of bags...a traditional tamrac and a krumpler for when I'm shooting sports. I've never found one bag that does it all and carries everything I need. This might be the solution. Thanks.

[jylitalo]

At least finnish hiking circles seem to be quite sceptical, whenever we start to talk about packs and zippers in same paragraph. Lowepro Toploader has three zippers. One straight zipper to protect small pocket at the bottom of bag. Bigger pockets are protected with two zippers, which make two 90 degrees turns (so its basically three sides of the square).

I've now used my toploader 75AW for about one year and during that time its been used in all kind of environments. As result from this usage, bag has started to show signs of breaking up. Symptoms are that zippers "teeth" are tearing apart from the rest of bag. In one corner problem is 2-3 inches long and another has less than 2 inches.
I took couple quick snapshots to demonstrate the problem. Those can be found from
http://jylitalo.homeip.net/~jylitalo/auki.jpg
http://jylitalo.homeip.net/~jylitalo/kiinni.jpg
I am going to see, if I can get my bag replaced as part of the warranty.
If not, then it might be time for me to check what other bag makers has on market.

P.S. Part of the reason, why zippers failed in such a short time might have happened, because I often left bag partly open. This happened, when I took camera out of the bag and pulled both zippers to those corners (so I had 2/3 of the zipper's length closed and 1/3 open), so that bag would keep its shape. This situation might have put more pressure to the corners than what would have happened, if I would have fully closed the zipper.

[DavidW]

I'm thinking through how I use my much-loved Toploader 75AW, particularly as I'm considering buying a flash bracket, which will mean rationalising what I carry and where I put it in my bag. My needs are unusual, because I'm a wheelchair user, so a bag that I'm going to access when out and about really does have to be chest carried.

Whilst something like a Stealth Reporter 650AW appeals for those times when I'm not shooting on the move and I want a laptop with me (one bag would be easier than my current setup with separate laptop and camera bags), I do need to get the most out of the Toploader based setup.


I have a similar kit list to the original poster - though without the 10-22 lens. I've therefore only got one Lens Case - a Lens Case 4 which is big enough to take my EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS with the tripod ring on and the hood reversed.

What I'm wondering is - where does the 580EX go? After a lot of messing around and repacking my AW cover, I finally did get mine in the front pocket along with my TC-80N3 timer remote, but it's a bit of a struggle to get it in there. Maybe the original poster dispenses with the Canon pouch and stand.


Maybe the problem is how I use the main compartment; I have the dividers set to hold the lens snugly (usually the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L, with the hood forwards for ease of use). All I can get in that compartment is the 20D with attached BG-E2 grip, E1 hand strap, neck strap (currently Canon - am likely to buy a POTN strap), QR plate, lens and hood, also my WhiBal Pocket, a microfibre cloth and a 77mm filter case (which for all the good it does me may as well not be in the bag).

I've just taken the dividers out of the main compartment, and even taking the hood off the 24-70, I can't get the camera and the flash in the main compartment.


I've already stopped carrying my charger. I'm currently putting my 580EX, StoFen Omnibounce and a DRes 6 (with spare batteries and memory) in a Sliplock Pouch 50AW on the side of the Toploader not occupied by the lens case.

Unfortunately I'm out of further expansion potential at that point. Whilst I am considering moving my Toploader onto a Lowepro Deluxe Waistbelt and Shoulder Harness system, there are times when it would be useful to carry the core of my kit off the harness.


Maybe I'm proving the old rule - that your kit always outgrows your bag!



David

[Lord_Malone]

Are you looking for a small bag but are worried about not having enough space for extra lenses? Don't think a backpack that you have to take off every time you want to get at your camera is the only option.

You may want to check out the Lowepro Toploader 75AW. This is a very slim yet versatile bag. It consists of a deep main compartment, with a two way zipper on the top for very easy camera access and a front cargo pocket that can be made into two sections and accessed from the top or bottom. The AW in it's name stands for All Weather as it has a rain cover that straps over the top zippered area to prevent leaks. The great thing about this bag is there are two carrying methods, shoulder strap or Chest rig (included)

Now I know your thinking dam, I have a long lens or lenses where the hell am I gona put them? I must need a larger bag… Nope!

Though the bag is small the dimensions are deep and wide enough to hold a professional SLR body with grip even when coupled to such lenses as the 70-200 2.8L IS or 100-400L (hoods reversed) or two smaller lenses. There is a slim area beside the length of the lens for accessories such as a blower or off shoe cord. The top lid has a zippered pocket to hold media and lens cloths. While the front cargo pocket is large enough to hold a pro flash and a few other items.

Sounds good but I have multiple large lenses that I just cant go without.

This is where the versatility of the bag really comes into play. Use of lens cases (sold sep) and the Slip Lock system allow you to up your capacity to a Pro SLR body + three large sized lenses or water bottle.

My kit that I fit into this bag:

Canon 20D/Vertical grip
70-200 2.8L IS with tripod collar
24-70 2.8L
10-22 3.5-4.5 USM
580EX flash
Charger
Extra battery
Off shoe cord2
Remote switch RS-80E3
cleaning cloth
extra media
tripod mounting plate

lenses not on camera sit in lens cases models 4 and 4s

For a night on the town the lens cases are removed and it is used with the shoulder strap. If I am out on a serious photo mission the chest strap is on and the top lid zipper is undone for rapid camera access.

Pros: All of the above. lifetime warranty, Perfect bag for someone using a wheelchair.
Cons: Base padding could be a bit thicker , The chest strap is a little hard to get off your body.



Price: bag: $90 CAD lens cases: $20 CAD (each)





This is perfect. Great review! Your "walk-around" set-up is very similer to mine. I've been looking for a bag that would replace my current camera backpack. Think I just found what I need in the 75AW. ;)

[Lord_Malone]

UPDATE: I have really learned to appreciate this bag. ;)

[Rumjungle]

Just got mine yesterday and am glad to find that it fits my 1D with either the 24-70 (hood forward) or 100-400 (hood reversed) just fine. As an added bonus, I was able to attach the shoulder strap diagonally to make it into a sling-type bag. I'm able to rotate the bag to the front and remove the camera w/o taking off the bag. Very nice! The shoulder pad is in the wrong position when used this way, but oh well. Maybe an aftermarket strap will remedy this, perhaps Op-Tech?

[LightRules]

I've also been using this bag for my 20D+grip+70200IS (or 100400IS) and it's just flat-out superb. Nice write up.

[PacAce]

It is also versatile enough to carry a 300mm 2.8IS with hood reversed. You have to strip the dividers out, but it does the job.
Kenny, with the 300 f/2.8, does the front of the lens point down into the bag or up towards the top of the bag?

[JohnnyG]

I bought my 75 AW because of this thread and really like it so far. I've only used it for a weekend but it was pretty heavily used over 3 days and I love it!

Thanks for the advice guys!:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Doom1701e]

I've got that setup but just one lens case. Great setup!

[maltese]

Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to give such an informative review.

Personally I own this bag as well. I agree that it take in a lot of stuff, however, the sight just shouts "CAMERA" makes me change my bag immediately. Its only good if you are not going to travel a lot. Else busy streets, secluded streets or any other less safe area, this bag is going to give you a lot of problem.

[zacker]

I concur, this is a great bag! I have one that I carry my 20D w/grip and EF 75-300 IS USM.

JZ

is that with lens on camera? thats what id like... something small enough to lug around all day, but big enough to hold 30d, with grip and 70-200 L attached.
-zacker-

[zacker]

do you all really carry all your equipment when you go out? even just for a walk/shoot? I mean, on a job yeah but for a day in the park? I stick the camera on the moonopod, attach lens of choice, stick the other two in my shoulder bag and go.. i got extra batts and cards and filters and a lens cleaning kit in the bag also... but no flash, off shoe cord, remote or charger... wont need em.
-zacker-

[DavidW]

Chest mounted (I'm a wheelchair user) I can carry around a 20D with BG-E2, EF 24-70mm f/2.8L, EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS, 580EX, spare batteries and various small bits and pieces for long periods in my Toploader 75AW based setup. It would probably be more comfortable on a Lowepro Shoulder Harness / Deluxe Waistbelt combination than on the supplied harness, but it's manageable - and I have serious spinal problems.

I put the bag on the scales recently - 16.5 pounds.


I often carry my tripod and L bracket with me - it goes over the back of the chair in a padded tripod bag. It's rare I don't use it at some point in the day - shooting bracketed sequences, for example.

The flash can be useful for fill flash - it's no good if it's at home, though I appreciate the futility of carrying a heavy item that you're not going to use.



David

[I Simonius]

Just came back from B&H with Lowepro Toploader 75 AW. Happy to report that 20D+grip with 70-200 2.8L IS fits nicely. Though, not much else room left for anything else - I can barely fit the 420ex in the side pocket, but really tight.

Cheers.

When travelling light I just have two lowepro 25 AWs on my belt which nicely will hold one each of 17-40 and 85mm lenses, plus spare batteries and Cf cards, the camera (5D)with a 50mm lens I carry over my shoulder

HOWSOMEVER - I have been looking for a way to carry the 70-200 zoom as well i.e. via a similar setup rather than having to actually have a bag over my shoulder without going the whole belt system overkill for what I do

I know the Toploader 75AW would take it,(AND the camera) but is there something slightly smaller which will still do the job of just holding a 70-200f4L?
(even if a ghastly sling affair rather than belt mounted?)

[AFcrosshair-1]

well you should get the Lowepro Slingshot 200AW which fits everything you have into a sling backpack an its versatility would PLEASE you very much... all you gotta do is sling it around in front of you an u can access your camera!!! check it out...

[Win]

Just wanted add my support for the 75AW. I've been carrying my 5D in it with either the 24-70 or the 70-200 IS and it works great. Some of my shooting is done by just driving from place to place and doing short hikes, leaving the bag in the car and using the neck strap, ugh!

Today my wife and I took a 4 mile hike in Zion N.P., nice flat hike no climbing, scrambling or stream crossings. For the first time I used the chest harness and it really carried well. I had the 24-70 on the camera, grip and just "stuff" in the pocket. I also decided to use one of those two bottle carriers that secure around your waist. I was able to put my 17-40 in the pocket on this little pack, worked great!

I'm not sure I would be comfortable with a lens attached to the bag. There was enough weight with the camera and lens, today, to make me think this is the limit. At least at hikes of 4 plus miles.

I'm going to try carrying a lens on my belt to see how that works. I wear a double stitched "Wilderness" brand nylon belt and it won't "fold" under stress.

Did I mention I hate changing lenses in the field!

Win

[JohnnyG]

Since I got my 75AW I have used it exclusively. Everywhere I go my 20D and attached lens is in it. I also have lens cleaning materials, CF cards, and a couple other things. Recently I bought the 100-400 lens and it fits in on the camera fine so I was happy with that. The 100-400 lens is 7.5 inches long closed so that plus the camera fits fine!

I think the 75AW is the best bag I've even had. It even includes a strap to carry it on your back like a backpack! It also includes a rain pouch to put over it to protect it and your camera during heavy rain.

Really a high quality bag!!!

[I Simonius]

Since I got my 75AW I have used it exclusively. Everywhere I go my 20D and attached lens is in it. I also have lens cleaning materials, CF cards, and a couple other things. Recently I bought the 100-400 lens and it fits in on the camera fine so I was happy with that. The 100-400 lens is 7.5 inches long closed so that plus the camera fits fine!

I think the 75AW is the best bag I've even had. It even includes a strap to carry it on your back like a backpack! It also includes a rain pouch to put over it to protect it and your camera during heavy rain.

Really a high quality bag!!!

I think Im going for the slingshot!

A friend came round with one yesterday and it works great!

[rwong2k]

I personally like the toploader and some lens cases it's much easier and faster for changing lens without having to put the bag down like a backpack or the slingshot 200

the aw75's shoulder strap with 2 lens case + body+ grip is annoying, i replaced it wiht my shoulder strap from my nova 4 aw and it's much more comfortable now

lens cases, man these things are useful for quick change of lens

[Lord_Malone]

Update: Adding the Slip Lock cases to the 75 AW really makes this bag worth owning. It's such an awesome light-duty carrying system. ;)

[fi20100]

I've got the Top Loader 70 AW... how am I supposed to get my 430EX into that? I don’t want to break the thing, nor walk around being terrified every time the bag bumps into something.

-Fi20100

[DavidW]

You may get the 430EX into the front pocket, though you may need to detach the piece of lining that separates the small bottom section of that pocket (it's velcroed). You can get a 580EX and a TC-80N3 remote in the front pocket of a Toploader 75AW, but the Toploader 70AW is smaller.

If that's not to your taste, I'd put a Sliplock Pouch on the side. A 50AW is probably ideal, though a 60AW or even one of the smaller options may work fine.



David

[velvel]

Please advise: how should I connect the aw 75 to the Deluxe Waist belt? Just threading the belt through the belt loop? The bag isn't so stable like that. Should I use the Cinch straps to connect the bag to the belt?
The velcro inside the belt loop in the bag (hardly noticed) can be used only if you place the bag in the center BACK of the belt, something that doesnot look so logical to me.
any other suggestion?

[Rumjungle]

Here's an idea:
http://karlgrobl.com/EquipmentReviews/CameraBags.htm

[blackviolet]

Please advise: how should I connect the aw 75 to the Deluxe Waist belt?

just slide it through to the back in the middle with the velcro.

do you have the S&F vest or harness? if so, it makes the bag very stable in the back. use the belt buckle to connect the harness/vest directly. if not, it's still relatively stable if the belt is riding on your hips.

[onBit]

I've been using Toploader There are only few bad things that I can say about this bag.
1) with chest harness, I can't see where my feets are. Normally this is not an issue, but if your hiking (with backpack on your back) on rocky terrain or using narrow bridge/rocks to cross river, it will slow you down.

Check out the "lowepro offtrail 2" nice comfy belt setup and you can still wear a backpack above the offtrail.

[BlueWire]

I also wanted to thank you all for this (and many other) great reviews. After many years away from SLR due to the ahssles of scanning slide film and the ease of being lulled into snapshot mode by digital point-n-shoot, I have finally re-entered the photo world with new gear. Canon 30D, 70-200 f/2.8L IS, 24-105 f/4L IS, and put it all in the 75AW Toploader with a lens case strapped to each side. Sweet set up so far!!

[RichNY]

Just anounced and shown at the NY Photo Expo show this week was the Lowepro Slingshot 300. Incredible bag- same layout as the 200 but can hold more lenses and can allow you to put a 70-200 f/2.8 attached to a 30D/D200 body with grip right in the bag.

This is the killer bag of the year, will retail at 99.95 and will start shipping in 6 weeks.

http://www.lowepro.com/Products/Sling_Bags/Designed_for_Digital/SlingShot_300_AW.aspx

[FatPete]

Received my Toploader 75 today. It's a lot bigger than I was expecting, but I'm probably expecting miracles if I want to fit the 100-400L into anything smaller :-)

Build quality is excellent (as usual with Lowepro).

Time to calm down on my spending now - I've blown my entire life savings since July!

[TXLEBER]

I've had my 75aw for several months now. I have it set up with two LC-4 lens cases that allow me to carry a total or three lenses, one in each case and one connected to the camera in the actual bag. My 430EX flash rides in the front pocket with plenty of room to spare for extra batteries and a bunch of other small items. For the most part this setup has suited me very well.

With all that said, I've replaced the 75aw with the Slingshot 300. I've only had the Slingshot for a couple of hours, but it's definitely a keeper. My biggest gripe w/ the 75 was that it was a pain to keep balanced on my shoulder while walking around. Carrying it across my chest wasn't very comfortable either. Although the Slingshot 300 isn't small or discreet, it is a lot less bulky than the 75 with two lens cases attached. As far as comfort, the Slingshot 300 wins hands down. Both bags are carried over one shoulder, but the Slingshot rests on the body a whole lot better.

Accessing the camera and the lenses will probably be easier with the 75. I don't think I'll mind having to swivel the Slingshot around my body to pull the camera out. I'll have to update this post after a couple more days of use.

[DavidW]

I think both the Toploader and Slingshot can be good solutions.


My Toploader setup is rather similar to yours (and my kit is too - except that my body is a 20D with BG-E2 grip, I have an EF 16-35mm f/2.8L instead of an EF 17-40mm f/4L, and a Speedlite 580EX instead of your Speedlite 430EX - though it works out at the same volume and mass, pretty much).

The special thing in my case is that I'm a wheelchair user, so things carried on my back aren't very useful, as that's where my wheelchair backrest is. My solution is to chest carry the Toploader and lens cases on a Deluxe Waistbelt / Vest Harness setup.


I don't think the Toploader makes that good a shoulder bag; it may be better with a better shoulder strap, but the included one is nothing special. I have a Stealth Reporter D650AW, which takes my laptop, chargers and various other bits and pieces as well as the camera kit. I'm sure that (or any of the other Stealth Reporter series) would make a much better shoulder bag; it's designed to sit across the low back, and the D650AW has a strap to steady it in that position.

Where the Toploader wins is in versatility as well as ease of access. Even though I can only make use of part of the carrying capacity of the harness/belt setup because of the wheelchair, in that I can only put things on my front, I can appreciate how powerful and flexible a solution it is. I don't necessarily carry all of my kit either - I can take one or both of the lens cases off the Toploader if I don't need them.



David

[Glenn NK]

Another twist:

I have the 65AW from Lowepro - it's just a bit shorter - fine for smaller zooms such mine.

I put the strap out to full length, and over my head, push the bag to one side (or even paritally behind me). It stays in place without falling off my shoulder, so I didn't have to keep sliding it back on.

By pushing it slightly behind, the weight doesn't seem so off centre. And I can sling my tripod over too.

Sheesh I feel like a mule.;)

[DavidW]

There's so many ways to use the Toploaders. I still think there's better shoulder bags - if you're after something to use as a shoulder bag. Where the Toploader wins is on flexibility; there's so many different things that you can do with it. I'm still just as happy with my chest-carried setup using my Toploader.

Unfortunately my Stealth Reporter D650AW is acquiring extra bits and pieces attached to the side (it now often wears three Sliplock accessories these days). Such are the perils of acquiring more and more kit.



David

[onBit]

Toploader 75 lacks a waist belt. So I opted for the Offtrail which lacks a raincover but does have a waist belt. As an option I added a small raincover made for a backpack. The Offtrail is not as deep inside as the 75, but will still fit the 70-200 2.8 without the hood.

[Undiscovered]

I notice ebay has them relatively cheap, but i'm undecided which I need. 70 or 75AW? I have Canon XT w/ grip and extra battery, 55mm, 28-70mm, 70-300mm lenses. Would the smaller one (70) be a better choice? or for the extra few dollars get the 75AW? Am I able to store personal items and possible some food in it if I'm going for a hike? Thanks

[Rumjungle]

I guess that depends on whether or not you plan on ever getting any longer lenses. A good thing about a slightly larger bag is that it may allow you to keep the hood forward on all your lenses.

[JohnnyG]

I have the 75AW and it's perfect for my 20D with attached 100-400 lens.

[fi20100]

I have the 75AW and it's perfect for my 20D with attached 100-400 lens.


And the 70AW works perfectly with my 350D w/ grip and the 70-200 F4 L (hood reversed) attached. You can even squeeze the 430EX in the front pocket (though it's a bit tight).

[Rudy M.]

Here's a few tips for TLZ75AW users--you can slip a monopod through the large belt loop if you are using it with a shoulder strap. Get the Deluxe Padded Contoured Lowepro shoulder strap--about $15.00 and very worth it! My gripped 20D with a 17-85 will fit inside the TLZ75AW with my Sigma 30mm f/1.4 under it (or vise-versa). I can still carry my 580EX in the front pouch. Or use my Sigma 70-200 with 1.4x T-con attached, hood reversed. I carry the flash in front pouch, and a Better Beamer along the side of the lens, and you can put some granola bars in there as well. There is a velcro closure on the inside rear top of the pack. I open this and slide my laminated Cheat Sheets for camera and flash in there. Often I will use a large lens pouch on one side (holds either the 70-200 when off my camera, or one or both of my other lenses (use a crumpled plastic bag between them--rain cover). On the other side I put an Accessory Pouch 60 AW that can hold my 580EX with external battery pack, or my Olympus C5050 and a flash--or put another lens case there and carry a water bottle.

For walking around motocross tracks, I have the Street & Field shouder harness and the deluxe belt. Very comfortable. It is somewhat incovenient to get at the camera when it is in the TLZ75AW because it mounts in the middle back. But if the camera is in there, it's not taking photos--so it is rarely there. I will put the same two pouches on the belt, plus two more for 1 liter Nalgene water bottles. The lens cases for water bottles affords lots of insulation. I freeze the bottles half full, then fill them to the top when I start out. Ice in the bottles lasts a long time in those insulated lens cases! With the S&F I can still wear a back pack or a hydro pack or both.

I recently purchased a Slingshot 300 AW. Very nice. It needs more pockets! It is awkward when additional pouches are attached.

I have a Rover Plus AW. It is huge--but I need to take it off my back to access camera stuff. I also need to take the 70-200 off the camera to store it, unless I rearrange the innards. Nice pack--carries lots of stuff up top. Belt is pretty stiff too, but carries the weight well on my hips. I attach lots of pouches on it as well. You cannot use the AW cover when a tripod is mounted on this pack. I normally use a monopod anyway and it fits in the top section.

Right now, I am torn between the Slingshot and my TLZ75AW system. Both work great and have their uses. The Slingshot doesn't scream camera as mucy as the TLZ75AW...especially when that has extra pouches attacted to it, or is part of the S&F system.

I may get a Crumpler type bag some day--don't know. For just flash, camera sans grip, and one lens, such as 17-85 with a Fong LS2PJ--an $8.00 X-mart insulated lunch pale works fine! And it doesn't scream camera!

Sorry about the long post--hope this helps someone.

[Undiscovered]

Thanks for the info. Sold me on it :)

Can it hold a tripod. That was my major concern. Is it all uncomfortable?

Thanks

[Rudy M.]

Thanks for the info. Sold me on it :)

Can it hold a tripod. That was my major concern. Is it all uncomfortable?

Thanks

Can what hold a tripod? The Rover Plus AW can--it is equipped for that. The TLZ75AW cannot--BUT--you could slide two legs of a small tripod through the large belt loop and put a stout rubber band or strap around all three and it would ride there nicely. I often stick a monopod in there and it stays fine.

As far as the Slingshot bags--there are no provision to carry a tripod unless you add your own straps to do so. I am thinking about it--at least some short strap loops to add my own--similar to what Lowpro puts on their large lens cases for the stability straps. If you have a small tripod about the size of a 70-200 f/2.8, maybe a bit longer, collapsed, it should fit inside the Slingshot 300 AW--but I wouldn't bother. I have a cheap little Slik tripod, but I wouldn't use that with a 20-200 f/2.8 or longer/larger lens.

[Mike Bell]

Mine just arrived. The chest strap is very comfortable even with a 5D with 100-400L plus other stuff in the front pocket.

I think it will combine well with my Lowepro backpack. I like to do landscapes and a bit of wildlife. The number of times I have been walking in the Scottish hills with all my camera stuff on my back when a deer appears. Damm - the camera's in the backpack! Solution - put the long lens on, into the Toploader and strap it to my front ready for action. The weight is more evenly distributed then as well.

[Wayne02]

Howdy folks,

I was directed to this thread by DavidW when I posted a question about what pack to use (Thanks David!).

I just read through this thread and it looks like the 75AW fits my needs most closely, but I still have a few questions maybe folks could help with.

I want to carry my rebel w/70-200 lens and 1.4 converter attached. I usually don't carry a bunch of other photo stuff, just what I need for short walks etc. I anticipate getting a canon 100-400 zoom lens in the future (but I think this has the same length when collapsed as my current 70-200?) and I "may" at some point in the future upgrade to one of the nicer canon bodies.

I dislike belt carry methods, chest carry methods, and full-on two strap backpack carry methods. That of course pretty much leaves me with shoulder carry or this over the neck messenger bag carry method as in this pic.
http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/botach_1851_41220421

The messenger bag style seems kind of nice as you can rotate the bag a bit so it rides more over the small of the back, or to the front to make retrieving the camera easier without having to take the bag off. I really like the idea of retrieving the camera from a low position on the hip with an upward stroke.

With regards to the AW75:

1. Near as I can tell it is designed to carry over one shoulder and not in messenger bag style?

2. I'm tall with much of my height in my torso, consequently many shoulder type bags end up riding just under my armpit instead of down near my waist. The problem is likely to be exacerbated if I try to wear the AW75 in messenger bag style as the strap would need to be even longer. In addition, the strap with AW75 looks pretty wimpy compared to the bag in the picture above which has a very wide, very well padded strap. Can a much longer, better padded, wider strap be ordered for the AW75? If so, where can I order one?

3. My rebel w/70-200 lens and 1.4 extender measure 11". The lowepro site lists the 75AW as 12.5" tall. If I upgrade bodies someday or go to battery grip with this set-up will that put my rig too long for the 75AW bag?

Thanks much for your help.

Wayne

[jylitalo]

...
With regards to the AW75:

1. Near as I can tell it is designed to carry over one shoulder and not in messenger bag style?


Both styles work with it if you adjust the strap to proper length.

...
2. I'm tall with much of my height in my torso, consequently many shoulder type bags end up riding just under my armpit instead of down near my waist. The problem is likely to be exacerbated if I try to wear the AW75 in messenger bag style as the strap would need to be even longer. In addition, the strap with AW75 looks pretty wimpy compared to the bag in the picture above which has a very wide, very well padded strap. Can a much longer, better padded, wider strap be ordered for the AW75? If so, where can I order one?


75AW is so damn long, that I've never carry it as low as where they belt strap is supposed to go. On front it would disturb my normal walk and on a side with camera in it, it would shift weight in ugly way. With this in mind, strap's length has never been issue for me.
Once or twice I've used shoulder strap from my Lowepro Stealth Reporter (200AW) on it, but one of the nice things in 75AW's strap is that you can so quickly adjust it to proper length, so I've already returned to use the original shoulder strap on it (when I am not using chest harness on it).

...
3. My rebel w/70-200 lens and 1.4 extender measure 11". The lowepro site lists the 75AW as 12.5" tall. If I upgrade bodies someday or go to battery grip with this set-up will that put my rig too long for the 75AW bag?


I've never had any problems with 75AW, when I've used it with 20D+70-200/4L + 1.4x II or 20D+200/2.8L+2x II. No idea how much situation would change with battery grip or 1-series camera, because lenses and bag are at home, while I am work at the moment. (and even if I would be at home, it would only be guess, since I don't have battery grip and/or 1-series camera).

[Wayne02]

Well, I just tried out the 75AW and the strap on the 75aw strap is no where near long enough. "That's not going to work" was the camera store employees statement when I tried it on.

It's not even remotely close to being acceptable. The bag rides way up high which completely defeats to the intended purpose of being able to draw the camera with lens vertically out of the pack without having to take the pack off or jack around with packs position.

I also tried on the lowepro slingshot 300aw and it worked a little better strap wise but my 300D with 70-200 + extender was too long for the pocket. The next size up slingshot would fit my camera ok but had a bunch of unnecessary space that I would likely not use.

Also tried on a tamarac I think it was called, which operated in the same manner as the slingshot but fit the camera better without being a huge bag. I may end up with that one if I can't find a quality, long, aftermarket strap for the lowepro 75aw.

Wayne

[Rudy M.]

Did you try the deluxe Lowepro strap for the 75AW? I bought that for mine and it carries more weight over the shoulder and stays put much better than the supplied strap.

A side note--My gripped 20D with attached Sigma 18-200 OS (hood reversed) fits in the 75AW perfect along with a Sigma 30mm f/1.4 (hood reversed) under the pad beneath the camrea, and 580EX flash fits in the front pocket (snugly). Spare camera and/or flash batteries fit in the bottom pocket.

I normally carry my ungripped 20D with 17-85 attached (and now the 18-200 OS) along with batteries and flash in $6.00 insulated X-mart lunch pail--works awesome and keeps the gear cool in summer, and warm in winter. The camera with a grip attached won't fit in this however. It does NOT scream camera inside either!

For walking around lately, I have gone gripless with 18-200 OS over the shoulder--no camera bag. For car travel, I'll revert to the Slingshot 300 AW or for when I need a bunch of stuff--but don't want to lug it with me all over the place. I hate carrying a bunch of stuff. For convenience of carry--I like the F&S system from Lowepro. I can carry all my stuff, plus 2 liters of water, a small day pack, a P&S camera and food, and it all carries all day much better than the Slingshot or any camera back pack. No rain cover for all the lens pouches, but that's what ponchos and umbrellas are for!

On June 30 and July 1 this year I walked all over Red Bud motocross track and I did not see many pros carrying packs or bags. They had their cameras out over shoulders, around necks or in hands, and had vest but not much in them. A few had a large lens case over their shoulder but that's it. I carried my Slingshot 300 AW this year, but mostly full of water and food and had my gripped 20D with 70-200 f/2.8 out all the time. I used the flash some, but kept it on the camera most of the time. Other stuff I needed photography wise, I could have put in my pockets and shed the pack, carried a cooler to sit on!

[MDJAK]

.
I also tried on the lowepro slingshot 300aw and it worked a little better strap wise but my 300D with 70-200 + extender was too long for the pocket. The next size up slingshot would fit my camera ok but had a bunch of unnecessary space that I would likely not use.
Wayne

I think you meant you tried the 200, as the next size up would be the 300.

your 300 and 70-200 plus extender (if you mean the 1.4) will fit in the 200, but you need to put it lengthwise. My 1 Series and 70-200 fit fine in the slingshot 200.

mark

[DavidW]

The shoulder strap you get with the Toploader 75AW isn't the greatest. I don't usually use a shoulder strap on this bag (my favourite way of carrying it is on my Lowepro Deluxe Waistbelt / Vest Harness setup), but if I do, I usually use the much longer, more padded and generally better shoulder strap from my Stealth Reporter D650AW.

The bag has good quality D rings - so you can find a suitable strap for your needs.



David

[Rudy M.]

20D with grip and 70-200 f/2.8 with 1.4 t-con, all attached to camera, hood reversed, will fit in a 75 AW or a Slingshot 300 just fine and be ready for action in seconds. I don't think the camera with grip attached or with a 70-200 f/2.8 attached, will fit comfortably in a Slingshot 200, and definately not in a Slingshot 100.

The Lowepro deluxe shoulder strap is much more comfortable than the supplied strap for the 75 AW.

For a nice way to carry the 75 AW, use the deluxe shoulder strap on shoulder or messenger bag style, and use a small belt or strap with snap hooks on the D rings around your waist. You can move the bag to your hip, the waist strap keeps it tight to your body, but you can still move it around you for easy access, or out of the way.

In a pinch, you can also use the chest harness as back pack straps.

For rain covers for lens pouches mounted on sides of 75 AW--use shower caps with the elastic opening. Bread bags, garbage bags, freezer bags, and a rubber band works well too. Store the shower cap inside the lens case between the outer shell and inner padding, or just stuff it in the bottom. It will always be there when you need it.

[GilesGuthrie]

I like my Toploader 75AW. It can take my gripped 5d with 70-200/2.8, or gripped 5d with smaller zoom plus a prime underneath. Strap isn't the greatest, but I like the grab handle at the flap hinge. It's a good "street bag", where I'm out with camera, rather than out shooting.

Still looking for a nice 4-5 lens bag, and still lusting after a Peli to carry all my gear...

[nutsnbolts]

Have you looked at the Digital Holster by ThinkTank? Here is a review I did on them. Very similar. Check out my signature.

[Spaced_K]

I have just bought one of these to use as a bag that i can use when i dont want to take all my kit out.
I get fed up of trecing around with a full to the brim 300AW and getting back to find ive only used 1 lens.

This bag is brilliant. It fits my 5D with grip, 70-200mm with 1.4 extender, 430 flash, rocket blower, Canon Ixus 70 and still room for some other bits !!!! :D

It is incredibly well made and has numerous loops and holds that you can use to attach things too, as per the pics earlier in the thread.

OK i had to pay £70 for the privelege of getting it the same day as i needed it for the weekend, but having put all the kit in, its worth every penny.
Luckily Jessops have a 10% off and using Quidco i got it down to £70, and for collect in store they only had 2 and one of those was just down the road from me. Result.

If anyone is looking for a smallish bag that vcan fit loads, dont look any further than this bag, i highly recommend it.

[Noel_]

I own one and love it. Especially when traveling to countries/cities with pickpocketing issues. It's a hand free solution which has everything in front of you without having any of the staps bother/rub you wrong the way.

Fits the 70-200 nice, however a very tight squeeze with the 2.0 extender on. With the 70-200 on a 20D, it will fit my 85mm and kit lens (again, tight but works). The rain cover is awesome too.

Overall great for a light shoot or just casual shooting.

Cheers

[ben_r_]

Been wanting to pick on of these up, but they seem like they are discontinued... They are also way over priced IMO.

[Noel_]

Been wanting to pick on of these up, but they seem like they are discontinued... They are also way over priced IMO.

Got mine off ebay, check there. Was a good price too, never used.

[ben_r_]

I actually ended up getting the Toploader 70 AW. I decided if I was going to carry something like the 70-200 or the 100-400 I would want to carry a few other lenses as well, so a backpack would be a better route in those situations. I will say how ever that the Toploader series is def big and made for gripped bodies. I has the Topload Zoom 2 before and wanted the sliplock mounts on the side that the Toploaders offered, but the Topload was a much better fit for my ungripped bodies.

[fi20100]

Really like the Toploader 70 AW. Often use it with a three lens setup... with two lens pouches attached.

[ben_r_]

Really like the Toploader 70 AW. Often use it with a three lens setup... with two lens pouches attached.
Yea thats why I got it, lens case on one side, water bottle on the other :)

[Ultimate CC]

anyone use the 75 with just one lens case 3 on the side, i was wondering how unbalanced that would be...i love the 75 but wish I had the option to carry just one extra zoom with me...any input?

[JohnnyG]

I use the 75 all the time, used it today for my granddaughter's birthday party. I attach one lens case to the side and away I go, it works great with it. I don't understand what you mean about unbalanced because it really doesn't matter. I pick it up by the handle and take off.

The 75AW is a fantastic bag for sure!

[Ultimate CC]

I was meaning like when you have it on with the chest strap...I use that alot when I do hikes and such...

[Headshotzx]

I know, I know. Big bump.

I thought I'd post some shots of the Toploader 75aw just for reference. I just sold mine.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2665/3776417157_befc5e0d7b_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2658/3777221486_3dc87f1b58_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3555/3776415941_8af6036c72_o.jpg

Cheers,
Zexun

[RobertZ]

I've tried a lot of bags and so far this one is my fav. I have one lens case attached as well. I carry a gripped 5DII with a 24-70 & hood attached. The lens case holds the 70-200 2.8IS. The front pocket holds my 580EXII and the bottom pocket a 50 1.4 or my G10. I can also fit a lens filter, lenspens, rocketblower, etc. in it. The only downside to it is unlike Crumplers, etc. it looks like a camera bag holding an expensive camera.

[Deejayry]

Really like the Toploader 70 AW. Often use it with a three lens setup... with two lens pouches attached.

Can i ask how you do that?

Yesterday i picked up a toploader 70AW from my local camera shop, along with a small lens case for my 24-85 i was always under the impression that there were a set of sliplock loops on each side of the bag so two lens cases could be fitted, but on the bag i have got there is only sliplock loops on one side of the bag.

[fi20100]

Can i ask how you do that?

Yesterday i picked up a toploader 70AW from my local camera shop, along with a small lens case for my 24-85 i was always under the impression that there were a set of sliplock loops on each side of the bag so two lens cases could be fitted, but on the bag i have got there is only sliplock loops on one side of the bag.

Did you get the newer Toploader Pro 70AW? I think the newer bag only have sliplock loops on one side while the old one has on both.

[Deejayry]

I guess mine must be the newer design... It seems crazy that lowepro would take the functionality of two sets of sliplock loops away and replace one with a pocket that is not really much use. if there were still two loops you have the option of fitting one of many different accessories, if you need a pocket then you buy a sliplock pouch.

[fi20100]

I agree. I also noticed that the new design is much more expensive... especially here in Finland. It looks a bit more modern, but beyond that not too much of a difference.

[Mtalia86]

can you post a picture with the zippers open showing your gear? id love to see how you put all that gear in there. ive got the same bag and im finding it difficult to stuff it with gear... thanks!

[ben_r_]

can you post a picture with the zippers open showing your gear? id love to see how you put all that gear in there. ive got the same bag and im finding it difficult to stuff it with gear... thanks!
Wow, Im not sure hes even still around! That was some years ago!