Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Over the past few weeks of using the M-Rock Zion 525 camera backpack I have truly enjoyed it’s company as has my camera gear. The rugged exterior allows a bit of rough play while the interior helps protect the variety of camera gear it stores. Having a separate section for up to a 15″ laptop is great, though I found it was really uncomfortable to have both my camera gear and laptop while wearing the Zion 525 on my back. Fully loaded (laptop included) the backpack would sat up too high on my back which not only made it uncomfortable but awkward when on walks or hikes. The lack of a waist belt was also a little disappointing (available as a pay option) while a good number of other bags include them. If you do need to haul around a lot of gear and don’t want to wear it on your back all the time, M-Rock does offer a similar bag in a roller configuration called the McKinley 526.
Another drawback I found is if you have the Weather Jacket on (over the backpack) you would not be able to wear the backpack. You would have to carry the backpack around in one hand all the time. Don’t get me wrong, the Weather Jacket does protect your gear from the outside elements (which we need here on the Wet Coast of Canada), it just limits you to how you can carry it around. I can see why Lowepro patented their “AW” cover featured on bags like the Primus AW and CompuPrimus AW as it is the only cover that I know of that allows you to wear the backpack at the same time.
The customization of the padded dividers is a welcomed feature. This allows the M-Rock Zion 525 backpack to grow with me as I obtain more camera gear. The removable Accessory Bag is also a nice addition, allowing me to create some extra room when needed. With three default configurations (and probably numerous others), this bag is definitely easy to make work with any gear you own.
If you’re looking for a camera backpack that stores your camera gear and can be adjusted for various sized camera components I do recommend looking at the M-Rock Zion 525 camera backpack. If you do want to lug around a laptop, just be warned, the M-Rock Zion 525 might sit a bit high on your back. With all the available storage space (sections, zippered interior and exterior pockets etc) this camera backpack should ensure you will never have to leave any camera equipment at home.
Pros
- Looks sexy
- Rugged and water resistant construction
- Durable
- Includes Weather Jacket for extreme weather conditions
- Customizable dividers
- Padded and breathable back section helps with comfort
- Removable accessory bag with strap
- Lots of space
Cons
- Does not include waist belt
- Chest strap too high and not adjustable (for both males and females)
- Awkward and heavy with full camera gear and a laptop
- Weather jacket does not allow for use of shoulder straps
- Depending on Airline it might not fit in overhead compartment (though they say it will)
Overall Rating: 8.5 / 10.0
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