It’s been 7 years with my Leica x Peak Design V1 Capsule backpack. I purchased this bag from the Leica Store Los Angeles way back in 2017 and I’ve taken it with me on every single trip to nearly every single continent on this planet without a single thread out of place. The Leica emblem “red dot” on the back corner of the bag and on the left shoulder strap still distinguishes the bag from many others and its tan interior looks amazing after 7 years of gear shifting, shoving, and squeezing for those long flights and excursions. Magnetic side pockets still stay strong without any tears and are a quick storage for sunglasses, headphones, straps, water bottles and chewing gum. The compartmentalized internal side pockets are heaven-sent and store my keys, passport, journal, pens, and cables. Currently, I have the center compartments split into 3 FlexFold sections: my rangefinder sits on top for easy access with the Maglatch, my medium format or video cam sits in the middle and distributes the weight well, and the bottom compartments are for film, chargers, WB sheet, and snacks. The internal sleeve fits my 16” MacBook or iPad easily, and I love the extra shallow storage area above the sleeve and the hidden area inside the Maglatch to store extra cash and SD cards. The 20L is discreet, light, and fits under plane seats, and easy to hug or kept secure under your arms when you’re in risky areas. I’ve used the external straps to latch on my trusted Filson Mackinaw Cruiser for any unforeseen weather, or I've even strapped on a Peak Design Sling for additional storage that passes as a carryon. I also have hidden inside the front panel is an extra rain cover for the bag, extra sets of Peak Design Leash, Cuff, and Anchor Links. Lastly, the bag has small anchor loops that I've used with combo locks and carabiners to secure the bag from theft and water damage.
The durability, modern design, comfortable fit, and inconspicuous form is perfect for everything situation I've been in, whether it's for work or play. The patina on the Maglatch is probably the only thing that dates the bag, but I love the battle scars and stories that my bag can tell! Shout out to Peak Design for creating an exceptional product that has been a joy to own. As I enter my 8th year with this bag, I still don't see another bag in the market that can rival its versatility and durability, and so I highly recommend it to everyone who is in search of a bag that is nearly perfect for the needs of a working photographer.
I'm a big believer in spending more money for the better product. You can find much cheaper bags to carry a large DSLR, an extra telephoto lens, a drone, a full-size laptop, and other small things you'll need for the day; but I think you'll be hard pressed to find one that does that as well as this backpack. The 30L version specifically holds all I need with the ergonomics and features that I smile at every time I use them. It's well thought through and I don't think I'll be able to go back.
Light, stylish, practical, and well-thought design
on August 6, 2024
Posted by: SteveInJapan
from Tokyo
I was a happy user of the 30L V1 backpack for years, and now even happier with the V2. The improvements to the original design are well-thought out and make a significant difference to the product experience. The V2 is lighter, and the strap ergonomics are more comfortable with heavy loads. The side flap pocket designs are better able to accommodate a variety of extras. The magnets keep the straps from flopping around when carrying the backpack by the handles. The adjustable laptop pouch handles my iPad pro, keeping it from slipping down to the bottom of the backpack making it easier to retrieve. Changing the key holder strap to an elastic band makes it easier to use the key without having to remove it.
Before buying, I was worried that the 30L size might be too big, but after using it, I found that the size isn't an issue at all. I often carry a lot of small items, so I use the dividers to organize everything. When I have larger items, I just remove the dividers, making it versatile for any situation. I'm really happy with how adaptable it is. On the other hand, there are a few things that concern me. The fabric is quite stiff and shows scuff marks easily. Additionally, the leather on the top handle shows noticeable water stains and oil marks. The inner side pockets seem to be designed for small items like SD cards or camera batteries, but they are too small to be useful for anything else, so I don't find them particularly beneficial.
I have had the V1 forever. Brought it around the world and it has never failed me. It was time to get the V2. I love it. The details to make the internal pocket (next to laptop sleeve) now have stitched pockets is perfect. I never knew I needed that! And I know the quality will last me another 8 years and more of travel.
This is a great, thoughtfully designed bag. I own a lot of backpacks and am always looking for internal organization first followed by multiple on and off body access points, which has led me to mostly tactical style bags. This is a nice change of pace. Outside, this bag is super waterproof and stiff with 3 great grab handles. The attachment points and cords are functional and subtle, as are the theft deterrent zippers. The top is easily the best access of any bag I have owned in both speed and security. Inside, there are enough pockets for everything both in the top zip laptop compartment, the stuff pockets and along the side panels. The side pockets fits a 26oz yeti rambler and the shoulder straps and harness are easy to adjust to find comfort. The foldable shelves are what really does it. The versatility of the origami design in addition to the fact they attach to the front and back panel vs the sides is a game changer. There are so many configurations and they can be lined up horizontally or vertically to adjust to each days needs. Easily goes from work bag to diaper bag, and has takes over as my EDC.