Side Series vs Urban Explore: Which is best for me?

Wondering whether Side Series or Urban Explore is more suited to your needs? We’re here to help.

Both collections are great in their own respects, and both work brilliantly as an everyday pack, but what are the key differences?

Side Series – The urban all-rounder.

For starters, Side Series has main camera access from the side but is configurable for top access. This works well for urban environments, providing an extra layer of protection, as well as providing quick access to your equipment by moving the pack to the front. Side Series is also compatible with Shimoda’s Core Units, but comes with a Shimoda Toploader, which can also be used as a sling or shoulder bag using the pack’s removable waist belt, for days where you have a lighter setup.

All four packs have straps which are compatible with camera clips; all of them feature a Capture Clip Mounting Strip which allows for hight-adjustable Capture Clip mounting.

Where the Side Series shines is its extra roll-top storage option. This can be expanded, providing additional storage space for changing equipment needs, ideal for days where you have additional equipment to carry.

Both the Side Lite and Sidecountry have a women’s fit option, with tailored Capture Straps to provide a more comfortable carrying experience. Urban Explore and Side Street straps are built around the Women’s Simple Straps, offering exceptional comfort for both male and female wearers; the clean lines for these straps make them at home on a city commute, sightseeing or on a day’s hike.

Urban Explore – Adventure-ready and travel-smart.

Urban Explore one of Shimoda’s most travel-friendly pack. All sizes meet carry-on regulations and is packed with travel-ready features like a hidden Bluetooth tracker pocket for an AirTag or Tile, a hidden passport pocket and routing for a mobile battery charger. These packs also have a luggage pass-through and a base handle for either piggyback travel or two-handed carrying, perfect for those who travel to location shoots on a regular basis. While it shares Side Series’ minimal look through the collection’s understated colours & minimal design, Urban Explore’s interior differs.

Where Urban Explore shines is its removable Core Unit camera insert, to keep your pack organised. The Core Unit also provides shockproof protection for cameras & lenses but can also be removed to use the pack as a carry-on to store clothing and other items for general travel, providing more uses out of your pack. This can also fit all non-gripped Mirrorless and DSLR bodies, allowing you to travel with everything you need for different shoot scenarios, whilst keeping your equipment secure & protected.

Like the Side Series, Urban Explore has a side access point. However, Urban Explore also features a rear access point, providing a layer of anti-theft protection by keeping what you’re carrying out of reach. The rear opening also allows for complete, unobstructed access to your equipment, ideal for time-sensitive shoots.

Alongside this, Urban Explore has side pockets on both the left and right which are ideal for carrying a tripod, gimbal, water bottle or other outdoor equipment, allowing the pack to keep up with you, no matter where in the world.

So, which one should I buy?

Our verdict? If you primarily shoot in urban areas, and usually have a lighter equipment load, go with Side Series or Urban Explore. Both have enough features for your day-to-day, whilst providing a sleek, modern look ideal for daily wear in urban environments. If you need a pack that keeps up with your high-octane adventures, go with Sidecountry or Side Lite. Both packs offer a lightweight carrying experience, ideal for demanding hikes, without compromising on performance.

Ready to buy?

Check out Shimoda Urban Explore in more detail, here.

Check out Shimoda Side Series in more detail, here.