The bag and backpack specialist Evoc is expanding its photo series with the Photo Scout, an all-round backpack. In addition to the obligatory protective compartment for photo and video equipment, the Photo Scout is equipped with many features that are familiar and appreciated from Evoc's bike and snow backpacks.
First impressions
Anybody who has ever used an Evoc backpack knows about the quality of the backpacks from the Munich-based backpack specialists. And the Photo Scout is no different: there is nothing to complain about in terms of quality. The material and workmanship are excellent. The backpack is divided into two sections. A larger area in the lower section for camera equipment, which can be accessed via a lid on the back and a lid on the side, and an area for other equipment in the upper section. As with other evoc backpacks, the carrying system is functional and allows many adjustment options (waist strap with Velcro fastener and buckle, shoulder straps and chest buckle).
The features
The division between the camera compartment and equipment compartment is approx. 60% to 40%. This means that a digital SLR camera including battery grip with mounted telephoto lens, two additional lenses and a flash can be stowed without any problems. However, if you have other requirements (e.g. video equipment), you can adjust the layout of the camera compartment yourself using a Velcro system. The entire camera compartment is completely accessible from above via a lid on the back. An additional lid on the side allows quick access to the camera without having to take the backpack completely off your back. In the lid on the back, memory cards can be stored in specially designed compartments and various other small items in an additional compartment. The equipment compartment is accessible from the top front and offers space for an additional layer, snacks or other equipment that does not require the protection of the well-padded camera compartment. As a third compartment, the Photo Scout also offers a padded glasses compartment. Ice axes can also be attached to the backpack via two ice axe loops. A small pocket in combination with a variable strap system allows a tripod to be attached to the front. Skis can also be attached to the side using the same system. T-zipper pullers are partially installed to make opening the compartments easier. To protect sensitive equipment from getting wet, a rain cover is integrated into the base of the backpack. This can be easily removed via an opening with a Velcro fastener. The cover is attached to the backpack but can also be removed for drying, for example.
The back section is reinforced, padded and equipped with air channels to prevent sweat stains on the back during sporting activities. However, compared to other EVOC backpacks, there is no integrated back protector. The shoulder straps are adjustable, ergonomically pre-shaped and well padded. The hip belt is designed as an Airo Flex hip belt, which means: breathable, extra wide and padded. On the test model, however, the Velcro part of the harness was quite short for a man 183 cm tall and weighing 80 kg. However, the strap with buckle located above the Velcro part was easy to fasten. There is also a mesh pocket in the upper main compartment and two small pockets on the waist belt for various small items. For drinking bottles or bladders, there is a compartment on the side that can hold a 2L bladder. The bladder tube can be routed to the front on the outside of the shoulder strap and attached with a clip.
Practical use
The backpack fits well and doesn't get in the way when skiing or biking thanks to the good carrying system. The many small features of the Evoc Photo Scout prove their worth during practical use. Compared to standard camera backpacks, the hydration system, holders etc. allow it to be used for many types of sport. However, the backpack is at a disadvantage compared to the manufacturer's other camera backpacks for more specialized use. For example, it lacks a compartment for avalanche emergency equipment for freeriding and touring. A helmet holder would be nice for biking. However, with the straps for attaching a tripod, you can improvise and also use the backpack for bike tours.
The Photo Scout is very suitable for park or slope shoots, hikes or simply for traveling. The camera equipment is in good hands. Hobby photographers and professionals who can get by with a DSLR body will be satisfied with the space offered by the backpack.
Conclusion
With the Photo Scout, Evoc delivers a sporty, compact camera backpack in the usual good quality. The solid camera compartment and sporty features make it suitable for use away from city trips. Unfortunately, the lack of a compartment for avalanche emergency equipment significantly limits its functionality in winter.
Advantages and disadvantages:
+ well-organized camera compartment
+ good access via the back and side flaps
+ integrated rain cover
+ workmanship
- high price
- de facto no separation of camera and mountain equipment possible
- no compartment for avalanche safety equipment
- no snowboard attachment possible
Features
Volume: 18 l
Weight: 1790 g
Dimensions: 27 x 52 x 17 cm
RRP: 199 €
To the manufacturer's product information
To the Evoc Photo Scout in our partner shop
Note:
EVOC has a smaller photo backpack in its range, the CP 26L, which is much more designed for use in the backcountry. It has a compartment for safety equipment and half of the main compartment is neatly separated from the camera compartment to make it moisture-proof and ideal for mountain equipment.
