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PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

GroovyGeek
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p.3 #1 · p.3 #1 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

amv8 wrote:
Any additional thoughts after sleeping on it for a couple of days?

It is complicated...

In the mean time I received the Coulee and absolutely love it as a day pack in non inclement weather. 40L is not enough to stash a parka and there are no means for attaching things like snowshoes, but for 3 season use it will almost certainly become my go-to pack. A Shimoda and FStop medium ICUs fit perfectly in it, It has the right shape, feels very compact, the waistbelt pockets are huge and enough for the XL series of phones.

I sent the Bridger 45 back to Campsaver for an exchange because MR's sizing is off. I got the L in both the Coulee and the Bridger (which is what their sizing guide suggested) and while the Coulee fits very well the torso length of the Bridger is too large. I was surprised when my measurements landed on an L because in Gregory packs I am at the border between S and M and I always downsize to ensure they the pack rides on the high side of my waist. Unfortunately MR couples the belt and torso size in a single dimension, and the S packs don't accomodate my well rounded physique.

Now waiting on the Bridger size M replacement to make a final determination whether I will keep the Bridger as a winter and overnight pack and use the Coulee as a Spring, Summer, and Fall daypack.

PS the MR 25% labor day sale has finally hit all their retailers, so now you can take advantage of it, plus free shipping (which MR does not offer) plus any cashback from sites like ActiveJunky

Sep 03, 2024 at 01:10 AM

amv8
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p.3 #2 · p.3 #2 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

GroovyGeek wrote:
It is complicated...

In the mean time I received the Coulee and absolutely love it as a day pack in non inclement weather. 40L is not enough to stash a parka and there are no means for attaching things like snowshoes, but for 3 season use it will almost certainly become my go-to pack. A Shimoda and FStop medium ICUs fit perfectly in it, It has the right shape, feels very compact, the waistbelt pockets are huge and enough for the XL series of phones.

I sent the Bridger 45 back to Campsaver for an exchange because MR's sizing is off....Show more →

So I did order a Bridger 45 yesterday as I was able to get the 25% off, free shipping, easy returns. I already have the Scree 32 (previous model) which serves me well as day pack, but very tight for my large ICU. But I think the Large ICU will fit better in the Bridger. BTW, you mention that MR couple the belt and torso size in a single dimension. If I understand what you are saying, I they are uncoupled. The S and M sizes have the same torso length range (15"-20"). The S is a smaller waist belt (26"-32") and M is a larger waist belt (31"-36"). I'm interested to see how the harness system on the Bridger feels with some load.

Sep 03, 2024 at 07:41 PM

Jochenb
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p.3 #3 · p.3 #3 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

I'll keep my eye on the new PGYtech, since it's finally a photo backpack that uses a TMP suspension system.

Since I hike a lot for my landscape photography I'm also experimenting with hiking backpacks, because they are more comfortable than any photography backpack I've tried (a lot).

I've been using Shimoda bags for years now and like their comfort... for a photography bag.
I also have a Gregory Zulu 40 (it's front access is nice for photo gear) and the comfort is in a different league than Shimoda. The same kit seems to feel a lot lighter because of the superior harness.

The other big difference is the ability for your back to breath. With Shimoda (and any other photo backpack) my back always gets very hot very quickly.

I now also have this Deuter backpack on the way:
https://www.deuter.com/int-en/shop/backpacks/p654964-camera-bag-futura-pro-jaypack-36

This bag has only been out for a few months, but seems to be very promising.
Even better back ventilation and the extra zipper on the bottom seems to come in very handy compared to the Gregory.

Sep 04, 2024 at 08:34 AM

sjms
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p.3 #4 · p.3 #4 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

good luck with that idea. the never-ending search.

the Deuter pack is extremely design similar to the Rab/Lowe pack.

Edited on Sep 04, 2024 at 11:40 AM · View previous versions

Sep 04, 2024 at 09:55 AM

amv8
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p.3 #5 · p.3 #5 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

Jochenb wrote:
I'll keep my eye on the new PGYtech, since it's finally a photo backpack that uses a TMP suspension system.

Since I hike a lot for my landscape photography I'm also experimenting with hiking backpacks, because they are more comfortable than any photography backpack I've tried (a lot).

I've been using Shimoda bags for years now and like their comfort... for a photography bag.
I also have a Gregory Zulu 40 (it's front access is nice for photo gear) and the comfort is in a different league than Shimoda. The same kit seems to feel a lot lighter because of...Show more →

I'd be interested in your impressions on the Deuter Jaypack 36 once you get it. I did see that in my searches.

Sep 04, 2024 at 10:18 AM

Jochenb
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p.3 #6 · p.3 #6 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

amv8 wrote:
I'd be interested in your impressions on the Deuter Jaypack 36 once you get it. I did see that in my searches.

Still too early for any conclusions, but I have mixed feelings so far.
The Deuter has about everything I was looking for, more practical than my Gregory Zulu 40.
The way the front access opens (less buckles to undo), side pocket, bottom compartment has it's own zipper, and it's a bit deeper (which is good because of the arching back panel),...

However: so far I don't like the comfort of the Deuter. With heavy gear in it I feel like it's pulling on my shoulders more than the Gregory. Maybe because it's further away from my back (because of the much wider ventilation gap on the back).
It's also a little bit shorter, without height adjustable shoulder straps.

It's something very personal ofcourse. I have a long body type. The Deuter is the "camera version" of their Futura Pro 36 backpack... which people like for it's comfort.
I'll give it some more time and experiment with rearranging my gear inside.

Sep 06, 2024 at 05:13 AM

hiepphotog
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p.3 #7 · p.3 #7 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

Jochenb wrote:
Still too early for any conclusions, but I have mixed feelings so far.
The Deuter has about everything I was looking for, more practical than my Gregory Zulu 40.
The way the front access opens (less buckles to undo), side pocket, bottom compartment has it's own zipper, and it's a bit deeper (which is good because of the arching back panel),...

However: so far I don't like the comfort of the Deuter. With heavy gear in it I feel like it's pulling on my shoulders more than the Gregory. Maybe because it's further away from my back (because of the...Show more →

I have a compact 17L Deuter TMP that’s been perfect for me up to about 20lbs. Beyond that, I’d recommend getting a pack with adjustable back length for optimal comfort. If you don’t fully stuff the bag, you’ll immediately notice whether the load transfer works with your body type. Continued use will reveal any potential discomfort points. When I switch to my Osprey UNLTD, it only takes a few seconds of adjusting the straps before I feel the weight lift almost entirely off my shoulders. On longer hikes, I can shift some of the weight back to my shoulders whenever I want, which is a great feature for maintaining comfort. Honestly, any high-quality, well-designed pack should be able to do this, but it really depends on your body type. My Vaude and Mammut packs offer a similar experience to the Osprey at a lower cost, though they are a bit more finicky and come with fewer useful pockets. I've tested most of the top-rated comfortable backpacks in the US and Europe to find my favorites, and it was part of the fun. Spec sheets alone don’t tell the full story. For TMP, the top four brands in my opinion are Deuter, Vaude, Osprey, and Gregory. People who haven’t tried TMP on a long hike are missing out, as a well-ventilated pack can make all the difference in any weather. That said, I understand TMP may not work for everyone.

Sep 07, 2024 at 02:08 AM

Jochenb
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p.3 #8 · p.3 #8 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

hiepphotog wrote:
I have a compact 17L Deuter TMP that’s been perfect for me up to about 20lbs. Beyond that, I’d recommend getting a pack with adjustable back length for optimal comfort. If you don’t fully stuff the bag, you’ll immediately notice whether the load transfer works with your body type. Continued use will reveal any potential discomfort points. When I switch to my Osprey UNLTD, it only takes a few seconds of adjusting the straps before I feel the weight lift almost entirely off my shoulders. On longer hikes, I can shift some of the weight back to my shoulders whenever...Show more →

Spec sheets indeed don't tell the full story. The Deuter seems a bit too short for my body type, even though their specs say it should be OK for my torso length. It's minimal, but the load lifters are a bit too low and are not able to fully do their job that way.
That's a real pity because "on paper" the Deuter is the backpack I was looking for.

When I put on my Gregory TMP backpack the difference is big. I can immediately feel how the weight is transferred to my hip, which is essential.

I'm curious how the PGYtech photo backpack will be received by people that have actual experience with TMP hiking backpacks. And how it compares to Shimoda. Still too early because they only just started shipping...

Sep 07, 2024 at 04:15 AM

sjms
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p.3 #9 · p.3 #9 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

People who haven’t tried TMP on a long hike are missing out,

been there tried that. they tend to pack less well on a/c overheads when you play in the larger sizes. have seen the frame structure deform. overall, not the best for, as i said before, for weight and balance of hardware. just an educated opinion.

in the end if you packing heavy you will perspire no matter what you're packing it in.

Sep 07, 2024 at 07:15 AM

hiepphotog
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p.3 #10 · p.3 #10 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

sjms wrote:
been there tried that. they tend to pack less well on a/c overheads when you play in the larger sizes. have seen the frame structure deform. overall, not the best for, as i said before, for weight and balance of hardware. just an educated opinion.

Your comments don’t reflect real experience with TMP on long hikes. I and many others find TMP more comfortable than traditional backpacks. But as stated, carrying comfort greatly depends on the body type. Unless your pack is custom-made, there’s no universal truth that TMP is inferior. Structural deformation hasn’t been an issue under normal use; with misuse, any gear can fail. And while TMP’s longer packed length is noted, carry-on compliance isn’t relevant to long-hike performance.

In a previous post, you suggested that Deuter's design is similar to Lowe or Rab, which indicates a misunderstanding of TMP design. Also, carrying comfort isn’t simply "an acquired taste." Both HPG and MR have overlapping user bases, and many prefer HPG for comfort after trying both, though HPG’s harness is admittedly more fiddly. Aarn’s balanced load approach, backed by scientific studies, is far superior to traditional designs. Aarn packs are unique in combining both TMP and vest-style straps, which may improve comfort, though they come with drawbacks like obstructed views and a bulky front appearance.

Sep 08, 2024 at 12:19 AM

sjms
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p.3 #11 · p.3 #11 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

its not Rab or Lowe as Rab owns Lowe. i have spent a good part of my life carrying packs. started in the '70s will be finishing off possibly this spring. i had quite a few packs to try along the way. traveled around various parts of the world thanks to the work i did/do.

i had quite a pile of packs of various sizes in my basement and used them. and finally had to dispose of most of them. still have a few favs.

as to the understanding of the TMP design, that itself varies by its designers to differentiate/improve on each other.

deuter/lowe similarities. simply different but yes similar.

and to think it all started with this

Edited on Sep 08, 2024 at 11:22 AM · View previous versions

Sep 08, 2024 at 04:47 AM

MohChee
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p.3 #12 · p.3 #12 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

I am very interested in the PGYTech OnePro but bit concerned with airline carry-on compliance. Mesh design makes the depth 26cm which is more than most airline 20cm

What do you think of Peak Design 45L outdoor line?

Sep 08, 2024 at 05:45 AM

sjms
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p.3 #13 · p.3 #13 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

from what i see of this pack it is pretty structured due to it inserts and TMP frame. it looks to be a less than compressible box setup. now this is just a visual from a picture from their site.

Sep 08, 2024 at 06:03 AM

GroovyGeek
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p.3 #14 · p.3 #14 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

No compression straps, those large side pockets are not a replacement for sraps. No convenient way to carry a full size tripod. No convenient way to carry water bottles with these large pockets. A no-go for me.

I am still waiting for my Bridger 45 replacement to come. In the mean time I tried a Gregory Zulu 55 at REI and I think I have a new pack at the top of the leader board. Spec sheets are deceiving for size, because they usually are with the pack loaded to full capacity. I don't care much about ventilation, as sjms says on a tough hike you will sweat no matter what. But the curved lower panel on the Gregory is IMO far superior to the MR carrying system. If just tests so nicely on the curve imin your lower back right above the bum and keeps things from sliding down over time. I'm the end it will likely be a decision between the Coulee 40 and the Zulu 55. The unpacked frame height for both is nearly identical. Heck, I may end up keeping both since I got the Gregory for $100 at an REI clearance sale.

MohChee wrote:
I am very interested in the PGYTech OnePro but bit concerned with airline carry-on compliance. Mesh design makes the depth 26cm which is more than most airline 20cm

What do you think of Peak Design 45L outdoor line?

Sep 08, 2024 at 12:29 PM

amv8
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p.3 #15 · p.3 #15 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

The Bridger 45 arrived. It looks well built with quality materials. However, I don't think it will work with for me. It's quite difficult to fit the F-Stop large ICU (surprisingly, even more so than with the Scree 32) and accessing the ICU/opening the pack requires undoing 6 buckles and 1 or 2 zippers (and that's after removing the brain).

Sep 08, 2024 at 11:44 PM

sjms
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p.3 #16 · p.3 #16 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

No free ride on any of these. This was also discussed above about the way you access it as to exactly how many buckles and there is even a pic with a Large icu in it.
What it is: a multifunction pack that will support and carry loads very well with reasonable access for multiple use.
What it isn’t: a single purpose limited use pretty much near rigid igloo cooler design.

i forgot, my RRS TQC14 tripod fits inside too preferably with the head off.

you of course may have a different POV. as with all things it is the choice of the user.

Sep 09, 2024 at 03:03 AM

GroovyGeek
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p.3 #17 · p.3 #17 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

amv8 wrote:
So I did order a Bridger 45 yesterday as I was able to get the 25% off, free shipping, easy returns. I already have the Scree 32 (previous model) which serves me well as day pack, but very tight for my large ICU. But I think the Large ICU will fit better in the Bridger. BTW, you mention that MR couple the belt and torso size in a single dimension. If I understand what you are saying, I they are uncoupled. The S and M sizes have the same torso length range (15"-20"). The S is a smaller waist belt...Show more →

In a very real sense they do couple torso and waist belt sizes. I am 6'1", 220 lbs, waist 36", torso 18". I fall somewhat between their S/M and L/XL sizes. Their guidance is to size down if between sizes. That works well for the torso size, but when I clip the hip bel Lt with only a T-shirt I have about 2 inches of strap on each side. If I put on cold weather clothing I am going to be pushing the limits on the hip belt capacity, particukarly with a winter parka. The L/XL bridger hip belt on the other hand needs to be synched nearly completely with just a T shift and seems to be capable of accommodating a waist in excess of 50 inches. There was easily 1.5ft of excess material on each side.

I am sure that if I write MR they will either send me an L/XL belt for free or for a nominal cost. However, like you I am not going to be keeping the Bridger. For all the praise it receives about how it carries weight from multiple reviews it can't hold a candle to a Gregory Zulu 45 or 55. Both of the latter have a plastic bulge in the back that rests in the simple of your lower back and keeps the pack out there. Not so with the bridger. Within 5 mins of putting it on my back fully loaded I can feel it sliding down and riding just above the base of my tailbone. In order to keep it in place I need to synch the hip belt really really tight, to the point of being uncomfortable. And it is steamy hot on my back.

As they say packs are about body type, and my body type does not fit the bridger very well. I will probably keep a Zulu 45 for a lighter day pack and a Zulu 55 as more of an overnight pack. The Zulu 55 is only marginally larger than the Zulu 45 (less than 1.5 inch difference in frame height) and if you don't stuff it it will make carry-on.

Still have to decide between the Coulee 40 and the Zulu 45 as the smaller daypack. I love the front zipper on the Coulee but it suffers from the same shortcoming as the Bridger - slides down my back.

Sep 12, 2024 at 10:31 PM

sjms
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p.3 #18 · p.3 #18 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

maybe someday, hope you find that "just right" one. i will be trucking around with mine essentially as a haul bag for the next few days.

Sep 13, 2024 at 08:06 AM

hiepphotog
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p.3 #19 · p.3 #19 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

Jochenb wrote:
I now also have this Deuter backpack on the way:
https://www.deuter.com/int-en/shop/backpacks/p654964-camera-bag-futura-pro-jaypack-36

This bag has only been out for a few months, but seems to be very promising.
Even better back ventilation and the extra zipper on the bottom seems to come in very handy compared to the Gregory.

Did you end up with the Deuter? This looks to be a great backpack. The main advantage of the PGYTech over all of these backpacks is the side access. But the comfort is questionable if you are already using a hiking backpack. It looks infinitely more interesting than the new Peak Design photo/hiking hybrid backpack.

Sep 14, 2024 at 11:16 PM

hiepphotog
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p.3 #20 · p.3 #20 · PGYTech OnePro Backpack: A Photo Bag with Mesh Panel

MohChee wrote:
I am very interested in the PGYTech OnePro but bit concerned with airline carry-on compliance. Mesh design makes the depth 26cm which is more than most airline 20cm

What do you think of Peak Design 45L outdoor line?

You can cinch down your pack with the compression straps to whichever depth you want. The new PD backpack has no new features catering to comfort, IMO.

Sep 15, 2024 at 01:24 AM

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