Shimoda Explore V2 25 Preview - Victoria Procter
Jun 2nd 2026
I’ve tried plenty of photography bags over the years and honestly, the Shimoda Explore V2 25 is one that fully delivers to me. It genuinely feels that it has been designed by people who really understand outdoor photography and what it entails.
For all of us.
Why?
Because as a woman, I am delighted it is not a ‘one size fits all’ bag and that their specifically designed straps tell me that they have understood what ‘we’ as women need.
I have spent a lot of time walking with camera gear on the landscape and whilst some bags have been ‘ok’ they have all lacked something that just hasn’t felt right.
This one does!
Why?
Whilst the bag itself is generic, the specifically designed straps for women create comfortability like no other, allowing us to carry the weight really well.
I happily work in all weathers and that means I am not just carrying the usual camera gear and tripod but my waterproofs and all the usual extras we somehow end up carrying “just in case.” That’s a lot and my Shimoda handles it all extremely well.
To be honest, the ‘women’s specific straps’ were something I wasn’t sure would make a massive difference at first, but they genuinely do. The shape sits naturally as they curve slightly outward, avoiding that awkward pressure across the chest that a lot of standard camera bags can create. The dual sternum straps help keep everything secure without feeling restrictive and the adjustable, well-padded hip belt fits narrower hips transferring the weight of the bag effectively. There’s no constant adjusting, no sore shoulders after a few hours, and no feeling like the bag is moving or slipping whilst walking. For me, the women’s harness isn’t just a nice extra — it’s a big part of what makes this bag stand out. It feels like Shimoda really thought about how ‘we’ as female photographers carry our gear, other rather than simply adapting a standard design.
Everything about the bag feels ‘solid and thought through,’ from the weather-resistant materials to the clever access points and the modular camera cube system. Being able to access my kit from the rear is a key feature for me because it means I can put the bag down on wet grass or muddy ground without soaking the straps. There is also an included, detachable waterproof cover that will keep things dry until I'm ready to move on. A small detail, but when you’re out shooting in the inclement weather that I work in, it makes a huge difference!
The Explore V2 25 won’t suit everyone though. If you carry huge telephoto lenses or multiple camera bodies I would recommend you look at the full range on their website and build a kit accordingly but for me, shooting with a mirrorless set up and a couple of lenses, it's perfect.
Without doubt, it’s the best camera bag I’ve used and is definitely one I'll be using and have for years to come.
It’s an investment you won’t regret!