The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a serious contender in the world of professional camera backpacks. Designed for photographers and videographers who demand both functionality and durability, this backpack aims to be the ultimate companion for your gear. Featuring a robust build, weather-sealed protection, and a wealth of organization features, the Pro Trekker AW II 45L promises to keep your equipment safe and secure, no matter where your adventures take you.
This review dives deep into the features and performance of the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L, putting it through its paces to see if it lives up to its claims. We’ll examine its capacity, comfort, and user-friendliness, exploring how well it caters to the needs of professional photographers and videographers.
From the robust construction to the intuitive design, we’ll dissect every aspect of this backpack to determine its strengths and weaknesses. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L‘s capabilities, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your photographic needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring photographer, this review will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L. Buckle up and join us as we delve into the depths of this high-performance camera backpack.
| Name: | Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 5.0 out of 5 stars |
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Introduction
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a large capacity backpack designed for professional photographers and videographers who need to carry a significant amount of gear. It’s the successor to the original Pro Trekker AW, and Lowepro has made several improvements to this updated version. This review will delve into the design, features, and performance of the Pro Trekker AW II 45L, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. We’ll examine its build quality, comfort, storage capacity, weather protection, and compare it to other popular camera backpacks on the market. Ultimately, we’ll determine if this backpack is the right choice for your photography and videography needs.
Design and Features
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a professional-grade backpack designed for photographers and videographers who need to carry a significant amount of gear on demanding adventures. Its rugged construction, weather-sealed design, and innovative features make it a strong contender in the market.
One of the most striking features of the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is its versatile design. The backpack can be customized to suit individual needs with its adjustable dividers and numerous pockets. The main compartment is spacious and can accommodate a full-frame DSLR with a 70-200mm lens attached, plus additional lenses, flashes, and accessories. The dedicated laptop sleeve can accommodate a 15-inch laptop, ensuring that your valuable equipment is protected during travel.
Another notable feature is the integrated All Weather AW Cover. This cover can be easily deployed to protect your gear from rain, snow, and dust, providing peace of mind in any weather condition. The Pro Trekker AW II 45L also features side access points for easy access to your gear, allowing you to quickly grab your camera without having to completely open the backpack. The top access point provides an alternative way to reach your gear, offering further convenience.
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The backpack is also equipped with multiple attachment points, allowing you to secure additional gear, such as a tripod, on the exterior of the backpack. The padded back panel and shoulder straps ensure comfortable carrying even when loaded with heavy equipment. The adjustable sternum strap and waist belt provide further stability and distribute weight evenly across your body. The hydration sleeve allows you to carry a hydration bladder, keeping you hydrated on long outings.
In conclusion, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a well-designed and feature-rich backpack that provides a high level of protection and versatility for photographers and videographers. Its combination of rugged construction, weather-sealed design, and thoughtful features makes it a top choice for demanding outdoor adventures.
Build Quality and Durability
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is built like a tank. Its construction is a testament to Lowepro’s commitment to durability, featuring a robust combination of materials. The main body is crafted from a dense, water-resistant nylon fabric that feels incredibly strong and is resistant to tearing. The zippers are heavy-duty YKK brand, known for their reliability and smooth operation, even under heavy stress. Reinforcements at key stress points, like the bottom and shoulder straps, add an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.
The backpack is equipped with a sturdy, reinforced frame sheet that helps maintain its shape even when fully loaded. This frame also provides a solid base for distributing the weight evenly across your back, which contributes to its comfortable wear. The stitching throughout the bag is impeccable, with strong, even seams that inspire confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of frequent travel and demanding adventures.
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In terms of its weather resistance, the AW II series is designed to keep your gear safe from the elements. The backpack features a built-in All Weather AW Cover that quickly and easily deploys to protect your equipment from rain, snow, and dust. The cover fits snugly over the entire bag and features a durable, waterproof material that effectively seals out moisture. The AW Cover even has a small opening that lets you access the camera compartment without having to fully remove the cover, providing extra convenience in unpredictable weather conditions.
While the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is undoubtedly sturdy and well-built, it’s important to note that it’s not entirely impervious to damage. While the backpack is designed for rugged use, excessive force or sharp objects could potentially cause damage. However, based on its construction, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is built to handle the demands of photographers, videographers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and durable backpack to protect their valuable gear.
Comfort and Wearability
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is designed for comfort and wearability, even when loaded with heavy gear. The backpack features a well-padded back panel with a breathable mesh for ventilation, helping to keep your back cool and dry during long hikes or trips. The shoulder straps are also heavily padded and adjustable, allowing for a custom fit. The sternum strap and waist belt provide additional stability and weight distribution, ensuring that the load is evenly balanced and comfortable to carry. The waist belt is also removable for those who prefer a lighter load or who find it unnecessary.
The backpack’s suspension system is designed to keep the weight off your shoulders and transfer it to your hips, minimizing strain and fatigue. The weight distribution is excellent, making it comfortable to carry even for long periods. The back panel’s curvature and the shoulder straps’ shape conform to the body’s natural curves, further enhancing comfort.
The Pro Trekker AW II 45L also features a number of clever design elements that improve wearability. The backpack has a side access zipper that allows you to access your gear without having to remove the backpack entirely. The top handle is well-padded and easy to grip, making it comfortable to carry even when the backpack is fully loaded. The backpack also has a top flap that can be rolled down and secured with buckles, offering different carrying options and protection levels for your equipment.
Overall, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is extremely comfortable to wear, even with heavy loads. The well-padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, sternum strap, and waist belt all contribute to a comfortable and secure fit. The design features, like the side access zipper and the top flap, make it easier to carry and access your gear. If you’re looking for a backpack that can comfortably carry your gear for long periods, the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is definitely worth considering.
Storage Space and Organization
The Pro Trekker AW II 45L boasts an impressive storage capacity, making it ideal for photographers and videographers who carry a substantial amount of gear. It features a dedicated laptop compartment that can accommodate devices up to 15 inches, ensuring the safety of your valuable electronics. The main compartment is spacious enough to fit a professional DSLR camera with multiple lenses, a flash, and other accessories. You’ll also find dedicated pockets for memory cards, batteries, and other small essentials.
One of the standout features of the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is its innovative organization system. It features a multitude of dividers and compartments that can be customized to suit your specific needs. The included dividers allow you to create a tailored layout to keep your gear secure and easily accessible. The backpack also includes multiple external pockets for storing water bottles, tripods, and other accessories.
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The Pro Trekker AW II 45L prioritizes accessibility with its top-loading design, which provides quick access to your equipment without having to remove the entire backpack. It also features side access points for easily grabbing lenses or other items.
This backpack isn’t just about storage; it’s about organization. The thoughtful design ensures that your gear remains secure and protected while making it readily available when you need it. Whether you’re traveling the world or shooting locally, the Pro Trekker AW II 45L provides a streamlined and efficient way to manage your photographic arsenal.
Weather Protection
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L excels in weather protection, offering a robust system to keep your gear safe from the elements. The “All Weather” moniker is well-deserved, featuring a durable, water-resistant exterior fabric that shrugs off light rain and snow. The backpack is also equipped with a built-in, fully-enclosed rain cover that deploys quickly and provides an additional layer of protection against heavy downpours.
The cover is conveniently stored in a dedicated pocket at the bottom of the backpack and can be easily accessed even when the pack is fully loaded. This ensures that you’re always prepared for unexpected weather changes, whether you’re hiking through a misty forest or shooting in a sudden storm.
The zippers throughout the backpack are also weather-sealed, adding further protection against moisture and dust ingress. While the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is not completely waterproof, the combination of the water-resistant fabric, the rain cover, and the sealed zippers provide excellent protection against the elements, making it a reliable companion for outdoor photographers and videographers who often face unpredictable weather conditions.
Pros and Cons
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a great option for photographers and videographers who need a lot of space for their gear and want a durable and comfortable backpack. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Spacious: The 45L capacity is more than enough for a professional camera body, several lenses, a laptop, and other accessories. It has plenty of room for your gear without feeling bulky or oversized.
- Durable: The Pro Trekker AW II 45L is built tough with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use. Its rugged materials and reinforced seams give you peace of mind knowing your equipment is protected.
- Comfortable: The padded back panel and shoulder straps are designed to provide a comfortable carrying experience even when fully loaded. The hip belt also helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on your back.
- Weatherproof: The All Weather AW Cover provides excellent protection against rain and snow. It’s easy to deploy and stow away when not in use.
- Versatile: The Pro Trekker AW II 45L can be used as a photography backpack, a hiking backpack, or even a travel backpack. Its multiple compartments and organizational features make it adaptable to different needs.
Cons:
- Heavy: When fully loaded, the backpack can become quite heavy. It’s not the most ideal choice if you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking or backpacking.
- Price: The Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a premium-priced backpack. It’s a significant investment, but the quality and features justify the cost for many photographers.
- Bulkiness: While spacious, the backpack can feel bulky and cumbersome, especially in tight spaces. It might not be the most practical option for everyday use or travel on public transportation.
- Limited Access: The main compartment can be difficult to access when the backpack is fully loaded. Reaching gear at the bottom of the bag might require some unpacking.
- No Dedicated Tripod Strap: While there are loops for securing a tripod, a dedicated strap for carrying it would have been a welcome addition.
Ultimately, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a great option for professional photographers and videographers who need a spacious, durable, and comfortable backpack for their gear. However, its weight, price, and bulkiness might make it a less ideal choice for those who prioritize portability or frequent travel.
Final Verdict
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a top-tier backpack that caters to professional photographers and videographers who demand ample storage, exceptional weather protection, and robust build quality. Its spacious interior, clever organization, and thoughtful design elements make it an excellent choice for photographers who need to carry a significant amount of gear on extended shoots. While it might be a bit on the pricey side, the Pro Trekker AW II 45L’s quality construction, impressive features, and overall versatility justify the investment for serious professionals. If you’re looking for a backpack that can handle the demands of your work and provide peace of mind in any weather condition, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a strong contender.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L to its competitors, it’s essential to consider the specific needs and priorities of the photographer. Here’s a breakdown of how it stacks up against some popular alternatives:
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L: The Peak Design Travel Backpack is known for its sleek design and versatility, offering a stylish and functional solution for travel photography. It boasts a similarly spacious 45L capacity and features a dedicated laptop compartment, a secure camera cube system, and a weather-resistant design. However, it may lack the robust build quality and rugged features that characterize the Lowepro Pro Trekker.
F-Stop Ajna 40L: The F-Stop Ajna 40L is another excellent option for photographers who prioritize modularity and customization. It offers a highly adaptable system with interchangeable internal dividers and external pockets, allowing users to personalize the bag to their specific gear needs. While it’s built with durable materials and boasts a rugged construction, it might be slightly less comfortable to carry for extended periods compared to the Lowepro Pro Trekker’s padded shoulder straps and hip belt.
Think Tank Retrospective 50: For a more minimalist and stylish approach, the Think Tank Retrospective 50 is a great choice. It combines a vintage aesthetic with practical features, including a discreet camera compartment, padded laptop sleeve, and weather-resistant design. While it might not have the same spaciousness or robust build quality as the Lowepro Pro Trekker, it offers a more understated and elegant look.
WANDRD PRVKE 31L: The WANDRD PRVKE 31L is a compact and versatile backpack designed for photographers who prioritize portability and style. It features a dedicated camera compartment, multiple pockets for organization, and a weather-resistant exterior. While it doesn’t match the large capacity of the Lowepro Pro Trekker, it excels in its lightweight design and streamlined profile, making it ideal for everyday use and travel.
Ultimately, the best backpack for a photographer depends on their individual preferences and requirements. The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L shines with its durability, comfort, and ample storage space, making it a great choice for professionals and enthusiasts who need a reliable and robust backpack for their demanding photography needs. However, if you prioritize a sleek design, modularity, or a more compact form factor, other alternatives might better suit your needs.
Who is this Backpack for?
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a backpack designed for serious photographers and videographers who need a lot of gear and want the best protection and comfort. It’s ideal for those who travel frequently, shoot in demanding conditions, and prioritize carrying heavy loads for extended periods.
If you’re a professional photographer or videographer who shoots weddings, events, wildlife, or landscapes, this backpack is worth considering. You’ll appreciate its ample space for camera bodies, lenses, accessories, and other essentials, along with its weather-resistant design and comfortable fit.
The backpack’s size and weight might be overwhelming for casual photographers or those who only carry minimal gear. If you’re looking for a more compact and lightweight option, you might find other backpacks better suited to your needs.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re looking for a similar backpack with some key differences, here are a few alternatives worth exploring:
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Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L: This backpack boasts a sleek and modern design with a focus on versatility. It features a unique, expandable design that allows you to adjust its capacity based on your needs. While not as rugged as the Lowepro, it offers excellent organization, weather protection, and a comfortable carry.
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WANDRD PRVKE 41L: This backpack is another popular choice for photographers and travelers. It features a durable construction, a dedicated camera compartment with customizable dividers, and a comfortable suspension system. The PRVKE 41L prioritizes versatility and offers a variety of carrying options, including a top handle, shoulder straps, and a waist belt.
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F-Stop Ajna 45L: This backpack is designed for serious photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. It features a modular design that allows you to customize the interior to fit your specific gear. The Ajna 45L boasts exceptional durability, weather resistance, and a comfortable carrying experience, making it a great choice for those who need a backpack that can handle tough conditions.
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Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Backpack 55: For photographers who prioritize maximum gear capacity, the Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Backpack 55 is an excellent option. It offers a spacious interior that can accommodate a significant amount of equipment. The backpack also features a dedicated laptop compartment, a weather-sealed design, and a comfortable carrying system.
Ultimately, the best backpack for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of gear you need to carry, and the activities you plan to do before making your final decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a top-tier backpack for photographers and videographers who demand a spacious, durable, and weather-resistant carrying solution. It strikes a fantastic balance between functionality and comfort, offering ample storage for your gear, excellent organization options, and a robust construction designed to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor adventures. While it might not be the lightest backpack on the market, its exceptional build quality and comprehensive features justify the weight.
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If you’re a professional or serious enthusiast seeking a reliable and versatile backpack that can handle your gear with care, the Pro Trekker AW II 45L is an excellent choice. It’s a worthy investment for anyone who prioritizes the protection and organization of their precious equipment, especially those who frequently travel or work in challenging environments.
About the Author
I’m a passionate photographer and outdoor enthusiast, always on the lookout for gear that enhances my adventures. My journey into the world of photography started with a simple point-and-shoot camera, but quickly evolved into a desire to capture the world’s beauty through a lens. Over the years, I’ve explored various photography genres, from landscape and wildlife to travel and street photography. This constant pursuit of photographic excellence has led me to invest in high-quality equipment, including a diverse range of camera bags and backpacks.
My approach to reviewing gear is practical and user-centric. I prioritize real-world experiences, testing products in demanding conditions to evaluate their performance and reliability. My goal is to provide comprehensive and unbiased reviews, offering valuable insights to fellow photographers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking the best gear for their needs.
Beyond gear reviews, I’m also an avid blogger and content creator, sharing my photography adventures and tips through various platforms. My passion for photography extends to the pursuit of knowledge, constantly researching and exploring new techniques and technologies that can elevate my craft.
I believe that the right gear can unlock new creative possibilities and enhance the enjoyment of any adventure. I’m committed to providing informative and helpful content that empowers photographers and outdoor enthusiasts to capture their best moments and explore the world with confidence.
The Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a fantastic backpack for photographers and videographers who need a lot of gear and want a comfortable and secure way to carry it. It offers a lot of space, excellent protection, and a number of features that make it a great choice for travel and outdoor photography. It’s not the lightest option, but the robust build and features more than make up for it.
The Pro Trekker AW II 45L is a great option for anyone looking for a durable, feature-rich backpack that can handle a lot of gear. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and features justify the cost.
With its solid build, comfortable carry, and impressive storage capacity, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L backpack is a great choice for photographers and videographers who need a versatile and reliable bag. Its impressive features and durable design make it an excellent investment for anyone who wants to protect their gear and take it with them on any adventure.
Overall, the Lowepro Pro Trekker AW II 45L backpack is a top-notch choice for photographers and videographers who need a spacious, durable, and comfortable backpack to carry their gear. Its combination of features, design, and functionality makes it an excellent investment for anyone who wants to travel light and carry everything they need for their next adventure.
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