Digital Cameras Ratings: Lowepro Pro Runner x450 AW DSLR Backpack (Black) Review

Average Reviews:
4.2 out of 5 stars

(More customer reviews)Over the years, I have come to really appreciate Lowepro camera bag designs, and this one certainly doesn't disappoint! Rugged, extremely functional design, and excellent mobility all make this rolling backpack one of the BEST Lowepro purchases I've ever made.

I travel a great deal, and until recently, I was only carrying one DSLR camera and its accessories. I have a Lowepro non-rolling backpack that I carry that also fits my MacBook Pro 17" Laptop along with my camera gear. I now have the need to carry 2 DSLR Cameras, 8 lenses, and a ton of other accessories including flash units, tripod ball-heads, battery packs etc... They simply all won't fit into one bag, and I absolutely refuse to check expensive camera gear at the airport, especially when traveling overseas. The X450AW has solved a number of issues in this regard. I now carry BOTH the original backpack including my laptop (meets the airline's "one carry-on bag with one additional laptop or similar case") AND the X450AW Rolling Backpack with the rest of my photo gear. Getting through TSA security is a snap, and the advantage of having the rolling pack has made the multi-mile walks through terminals like Atlanta oh so much more painless!

The X450AW is very well designed. It includes a canvas covered cushioned pouch with shoulder strap for a laptop up to 15" that fits into the front zippered compartment. There are nifty little attention to detail features including key holders, flash card slots, and zippered pockets throughout. The system includes a unique tripod carrying base pocket that attaches to the outer bag that keeps one leg secure from slipping. It is removable when not carrying a tripod.

Inside, the separators are Lowepro classics. Heavily cushioned and easy to adjust and configure to fit whatever your needs are. I carry one DSLR and 6 of my lenses in this case, along with a flash unit, battery pack, and remote switches amongst other accessories. The front compartment has cloth separators that have room for your important files or travel documents, as well as various pockets for writing utensils or whatever else you want to stuff in your bag.

The carrying handle is spring loaded, which is a very nice feature. No having to play around trying to pull the handle out or retract it back into the bag. The wheels are STRONG and well-built. I expect they will last a very long time. The bag will stand upright on its own.

Hidden away in the back are the shoulder straps that make up the "backpack" portion of the unit. When not being carried on your back, the straps are never in the way, and have their own zippered compartment. The OTHER Lowepro exclusive feature is the rain guard, which is found on most Lowepro bags. This cover pulls out of the bottom of the bag and completely covers the entire unit if you're in rain or misty conditions and want to protect your equipment. I have used these covers on other bags a great deal, and I can attest that they are one of Lowepro's strongest suits.

All in all, this is an EXCELLENT runner backpack unit that has no peers. While the price is somewhat high, it is well worth every penny if you want convenience and protection for your gear. I can't recommend it highly enough! 5+ Stars!

UPDATE August 2010 - I will reiterate my 5+ Star rating on this travel system! I have now been back and forth overseas four times with the bag, and it is still like new, despite typical airline handling, and constant use. Best bag from Lowepro yet, and worth every penny it cost!

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Product Description:
The Pro Runner x350 and x450 AW DSLR rolling backpacks delivers a convertible, streamlined and urban-inspired solution for pro photographers and photojournalists who carry their gear through crowded airports and busy city streets. It's purpose built for superior protection and maximum flexibility as photographers work and travel. This easy-to-convert design fits a DSLR with attached lens up to a pro-sized body with grip and 300mm f/2.8 attached lens (x450 AW), laptop, tripod and multiple accessories, plus a few personal items. From its fully padded interior to it's patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover, the Pro Runner AW thoroughly safeguards valuable gear. Each pack includes: spring-loaded trolley handle; premium wheels; checkpoint-friendly laptop sleeve; Hideaway Tripod Mount system; rainflap lids; SlipLock attachment loops; multiple storage pockets; memory card pockets; and more.

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