Shimoda Action X30 v2 Backpack - black (520-122) X30 v2 - Black

Shimoda Action X30 v2 backpack, black, compact outdoor companion for photo and hiking tours

With the Shimoda Action X30 v2 in black, you’re getting a backpack that feels like it was made for long days outside, for real hikes, photo shoots in the rain, quick city trips and everything in between. 30 liters of volume may not sound like much at first, but in practice a surprising amount fits inside and, above all, you can access your gear quickly without having to tear apart half the backpack every time.

30 liters of volume plus expandable roll-top when you need more space

Whether you’re packing only the essentials for a short hike or gearing up for a long day in the mountains, the Action X30 v2 stays flexible. The main compartment offers 30 liters of capacity and is designed to be used with the modular Shimoda Core Units that safely organize your camera gear. The matching Core Unit is deliberately sold separately so you can choose exactly the size that fits your setup instead of having to accept something pre-configured.

On top sits a roll-top closure that can be expanded by up to 7 liters when needed. This lets you compress the backpack tightly when you want to travel light, or spontaneously pack an extra jacket, provisions or a small gimbal when the day turns out longer than planned. The lid is equipped with a YKK SplashGuard zipper that gives you quick access from above while protecting against drizzle and splashes.

Quick access to your gear without a lot of fuss

Especially when hiking or on action shoots, you don’t want to rummage around in your backpack forever. The Action X30 v2 is designed exactly for that: compact, robust and laid out so you can reach your camera and lenses with just a few moves. In combination with the matching Core Unit, the interior can be structured so that you know exactly where everything is—no more searching when the light is perfect and you only have seconds.

Robust construction for outdoor and hiking

The backpack is clearly designed for outdoor use. The material is hard-wearing, and the workmanship feels well thought-out and not just “nice for the studio.” For hikes, bike descents or ski days, that’s pretty ideal because you don’t have to constantly wonder whether the backpack can handle it. Multiple attachment points and straps let you secure bulky gear on the outside without everything wobbling around.

Includes rain cover and removable helmet holder

When the weather turns—and it tends to do that just when you’re far from the car—you’re on the safe side with the included rain cover. It can be pulled over quickly and reliably protects the backpack from rain and mud.

For bike or ski tours, the removable helmet holder is worth its weight in gold. You can attach your bike or ski helmet to the outside of the backpack so it doesn’t take up space in the main compartment. If you don’t need it, just take it off and the backpack immediately looks a bit cleaner.

Adjustable back length, fits small, medium and tall body types

Because people simply aren’t all the same height, the back length of the X30 v2 can be adjusted. The backpack offers three different height options with about 6.9 cm of vertical adjustment. This lets you adapt it to your build, whether you’re more compact, average or tall. The result: better weight distribution, fewer pressure points and an overall much more comfortable carry, especially when you’re out for longer or the backpack is fully loaded.

Comfortable shoulder straps with clever pockets

The shoulder straps are not only padded but also put to practical use. On both sides you’ll find zippered pockets that are large enough for a Pro-sized smartphone. Alternatively, you can fit a small water bottle, energy bars or other personal items you want quick access to. This way you don’t have to take off the backpack every time you need something briefly.

Removable hip belt for stability and long days

Especially when hiking or when you’re carrying a lot of photo gear, a good hip belt makes all the difference. The removable hip belt of the Action X30 v2 ensures that the weight doesn’t rest solely on your shoulders but is comfortably distributed onto your hips. This provides more stability, particularly on uneven terrain, and relieves your back. If you’re using the backpack more for everyday life or in the city and prefer a more minimalist look, you can simply remove the hip belt.

Trolley sleeve for relaxed travel

For flights or train journeys, the integrated trolley sleeve is practical. You can slide the backpack over the handle of your rolling suitcase, creating a compact unit that’s easy to maneuver through airports or train stations. Especially if you’re also carrying a camera bag or other hand luggage, this is a noticeable relief.

Removable side pockets for tripod and water bottle

On the sides of the backpack there are two removable pockets that can be used very flexibly. You can store, for example, a travel tripod, a large water bottle or other accessories in them. If you want particularly quick access, these pockets can also be attached to the hip belt—ideal if you reach for your bottle often on the go or want to keep a small tripod within easy reach. And if you want to travel as streamlined as possible, you can simply remove the pockets entirely.

TPU compression straps for bulky gear like skis

For everyone who transports more than just a camera and a jacket: the Action X30 v2 features multiple attachment straps, including particularly robust TPU compression straps. These are designed to securely fasten bulky items such as skis to the backpack. The increased durability ensures that the straps don’t give out quickly even with frequent use and heavy loads. This is a real plus, especially on alpine tours or winter missions.

Dual laptop and tablet compartments up to 16 inches

Inside you’ll find two padded compartments specifically designed for mobile devices. A 16-inch laptop and a tablet can be stored separately and securely so they don’t bang against each other or end up between lenses and cables. The compartments are dimensioned so that typical work setups—such as a 15–16 inch notebook plus iPad or a similar tablet—fit in easily. Ideal when you’re backing up images, editing or preparing presentations on the go.

Hidden compartment for AirTag or Tile Pro

A small but very contemporary detail: the backpack has a hidden compartment where you can store a tracking device such as an AirTag or a Tile Pro. This allows you to locate your backpack in case of loss or theft, or at least track it. The compartment is integrated in such a way that it doesn’t immediately catch the eye from the outside, which further increases security.

Technical data at a glance

To help you better assess how the backpack fits you and your setup, here are the key dimensions and the weight:

• Weight: approx. 1.9 kg
• External dimensions (W x H x D): 30 x 51 x 17 cm
• Internal dimensions (W x H x D): 29.5 x 50.5 x 16 cm
• Dimensions of laptop compartment (W x H x D): 25.5 x 38 x 2 cm

Who the Shimoda Action X30 v2 is particularly interesting for

If you enjoy hiking, spend a lot of time outdoors and don’t just want to transport your photo gear “somehow,” but rather organized, protected and quickly accessible, then the Action X30 v2 is a very good fit. It’s compact enough for day hikes and hut tours, yet surprisingly capacious thanks to the expandable roll-top and the many attachment options.

We’d say: a backpack for everyone who doesn’t have to go on an expedition every weekend but values thoughtful details and likes it when a camera backpack also works for hiking and not just looks good in the studio.