Today we will be taking a look at three recent bags from iFootage – the Beava Backpack 35 and Beava Backpack 50 and the interesting Roller 35 bag.
iFootage
IFootage has come up with a number of innovative products over the years. They keep developing quality video gear and have expanded their product line. We’ve reviewed a number of their new lights, and now they are offering bags.
We’ve been working with the iFootage Beava 35 and 50 backpacks, and the 35 Roller for some months now, so let’s see if iFootage was able to innovate on such a beat-up concept as a camera bag.
Concept
The short answer to that question is: “I think they could’ve done better.” If anybody could set a new standard for camera bags, I believe it’s iFootage.
And it’s not like they didn’t try to innovate. A tripod pocket in front – very innovative. Quick-open clasps – innovative. A bit of a puzzle when you first try to open them, but innovative. Redesigned angled dividers – innovative.
Layered height design, magnetic handles, plastic mesh pockets – all very innovative additions. But they don’t fix the main problem with camera bags, which is organizing accessories. I understand that bags need dividers to customize the space inside, but velcro is just not the best way to do it.
I don’t see the need to reposition dividers constantly. In most use cases, you set up the space in the bag and you use it pretty consistently. You put everything back in the same place, so every time you open or close the bag, you have a visual checklist if anything is missing.
So, the divider system needs to be more robust. It’s 2024, iFootage, please come up with a rail system or something that will actually stay in place when I carry this 15kg backpack. And pockets. Big accessory pockets or inserts that protect and organize peripherals.
Design and build
With that out of the way, they are still a worthy competitor among other bags. So let’s talk about what these Beava bags will get you.
All three are finished in a rugged vinyl exterior with weatherproof zippers. The backpacks feature adjustable harness back support with breathable padding and stabilizer straps. The smaller backpack comes with detachable waist support.
The shoulder strap system
Beava 35
The 35-liter backpack has been my daily use bag for a few months now. I switched to this bag from a 19-liter bag, and the Beava has definitely been spacious enough for all the gear I need to carry. It does get pretty heavy though, and sadly, the side handles weren’t strong enough. We reported this to iFootage, and they promised to reinforce the handles.
Room for gear on the Beava-35
The shoulder straps are nicely padded and wide and the harness is comfortable even with all the weight. There is plenty of pocket space in the main compartment, on the side access, and in the computer compartment in the back. There is also a magnetic-closure padded sleeve for a tablet in the back.
The front of the Beava 35 is a big pocket with two zippers that is designed for a travel tripod. There is enough space here to carry other accessories that don’t need bump protection. Alternatively, you could use this space and even the back compartment for clothes.
Lots of compartments and room for gear and accessories on the Beava 35
Beava 50
The Beava 50 is more suited for travel rather than an everyday work bag. There is a large top section for clothes and a front pocket like on the Beava 35, except this one isn’t waterproof.
The Beava 50 is actually a backloader. It has a sturdy metal frame, but it weighs less than 3.5kg. Because of the top section, the main compartment isn’t very spacious. It comes with a divider insert that you can take out and use the entire bag for clothing or adventure gear.
Back support on the Beava 50
There’s quick side access, but the divider insert has a door that defeats the purpose of quick access. It might be an added security when you need it, and you can always fold it under to get it out of the way.
Backloading the Beava-50
Beava Roller 35
The Roller bag is very interesting because it offers a different way of transporting gear. It’s just as spacious as the Beava 35 backpack, but it offers more height.
This is great for rigs since you the height allows to leave all the accessories attached. There is enough space for two full Sony FX3 rigs side by side, plus the top level can hold batteries and monitors.
There is a spacious double side pocket with an organizer compartment, retractable handles, and a nicely padded shoulder strap. The wheels are cushioned with a lightweight rubber compound and there is a telescoping t-handle to roll the bag.
The rolling feature and the suitcase handle passthrough give the Beava roller a travel look, but I’m not too sure it would be considered hand luggage. Plus the telescoping handle doesn’t feel very sturdy. Only time will tell how long it’ll last.
In all, this is a great-looking bag. It looks more professional than a backpack. Like a doctor coming to operate. But It’s more of an additional bag for production days. Not sure if it’s ideal for everyday use, especially since there is no laptop section here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the new iFootage bags are as always an example of good quality and innovative thinking. They aren’t perfect, and we hope that iFootage fixes the handles, but iFootage is definitely on the right track here.
The top-loading iFootage Beava Roller-35
Pricing
As for pricing, the Beava 35 and the larger 50 cost $250 and the Beava Roller sells for $320.
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