Small, Innovative, Modular Camera Bag
Review by Dave Williams
Camera bags; they’re funny old things. We photographers tend to have a collection of camera bags because it’s so hard to solve all the problems we have, luggage-wise. The solution provided by WANDRD is a range of camera bags that cater specifically to photographers and travelers, dealing with the issues most of us face when selecting luggage. The ROGUE Sling range suits many who wish to travel fairly light. This range features a 3L, 6L, and 9L variant, but my review focuses on the 9L bag.
I’ve had several bags from the WANDRD lineup and, with all of them, there are two words that come to mind: innovative and modular. The modular design and the overall shape means this bag looks small but carries more than you’d think possible. With that in mind it’s always important to consider our back and shoulders when carrying gear, but I can honestly say there’s not a better shoulder strap out there. Back to that word, “innovative.” The shoulder strap is actually one of three options: The bag can be used messenger-style, but also slung, or waist-strapped. The air mesh back panel adds to the comfort of carrying it, and there are three grab handles to choose from, too.
Just as we’re used to with most bags, this one has a removable divider inside, which allows you to customize the inside, easily making dedicated spaces for cameras, lenses, drones, or other gear. On the outside, there’s also an expandable tripod or water-bottle holder. It’s easy to use and very secure.
Speaking of secure, the laptop case holder is a consideration that most other sling bag manufacturers simply didn’t make. The WANDRD Laptop Case is a patent-pending protective sleeve that folds up, giving you a raised, slanted platform to work on. When you’re on the move, simply slide the Laptop Case into the secure, dedicated spot on the back of the ROGUE. When it comes to protecting the gear inside the ROGUE, don’t worry: the bag is made of weather-resistant materials, including YKK weather-resistant zippers. Getting access is simple, with a zipper that opens on three sides so you can get anything out quickly and easily. Extra pockets provide storage for cables, batteries, and cards, too.
Color options are black or Yuma Tan. Other aesthetics and ergonomics, which I think are very important in design, are on-point. This bag is not only functional, but it looks and feels awesome. In trying to break several components, I failed, and in getting out and about with my camera and drone packed in, I didn’t find any problems. I’m always hesitant to offer five stars but, as I can’t find anything wrong with the WANDRD ROGUE 9L, I have no choice.