Think Tank Rotation 22L Backpack

2025-05-06T20:00:00

The Rotation 22l is an excellent Hiking/Backpack for Day hikes. At a petite 4ft 9in, I do not have any problem with the torso length or harness straps. It is a very comfortable bag. However the padding on the waist belt is a little too long for my small size, so there is no play in the webbing, it is all bunched up in the elastic at the minimum length. My only other negative is that the camera compartment doesn't have the soft lining all around to attach further dividers (I use micro 4/3). These are only minor criticisms, I think it's the best hiking bag I've had.

Dawn

Originally posted at

2023-06-24T20:00:00

This backpack is ideal for small trekking. Sits perfectly on the back and is comfortable to carry. I should have had this long ago. Also super easy to get your photo equipment

Peter B.

Originally posted at

2023-06-17T20:00:00

I live in NZ and bought the pack online from one of the few retailers here. As the pack had to be shipped across islands, I had no chance of trying it on, unfortunately. I love the concept of the rotating belt pack - it works very well. But despite the compact 22L size I just can't get the pack to sit comfortably on my shoulders. No matter which way I adjust the straps, it still rubs and hurts my shoulders. I am short (163cm), and even though I have tried several back length adjustments, the pack doesn't seem to fit my body. The straps feel too stiff and create pressure points on top of my shoulders even after a short walk. I ended up sewing myself extra pads to attach to the straps. I have never had such fit issues with other backpacks - cheap or pricey. As an idea to the Department of Development, how about interchangeable straps with different levels of padding or even one especially shaped for a woman's body? Thanks to the velcro in the back the straps are fully removable and could easily be switched over to a different pair. This would make your backpacks even more unique and customizable. I'm sure, I'm not the only one who would appreciate this option. Greetings from New Zealand. :)

Britta

Originally posted at

2022-09-26T20:00:00

Have had my 2nd generation 22L Rotation since the original shipment. I supported its development via Kickstarter. I already owned a Backlight 26 and a Backlight 36. They serve different purposes. If there will be any real hiking, the Rotation 22 is best. It holds the camera gear I'll need plus my extra clothing and food. The Rotation 22 carries extremely well, as well as do the best designed hikers' daypacks. The adjustable ladder and load relievers atop the shoulder straps are features not generally found in compact camera bags. I now stand only 5'5", down 3" from my young stature, and have been able to adjust the Rotation 22 to my liking. When walking I will generally place a FF Sony mounted w/ a Tamron 2.8/70-180, or with a 90mm macro, in the belt pack and carry a second camera body with a lighter 40mm f2 Zeiss Batis on a neck strap. Filters can fit in the lid pocket of the belt pack but usually I attach a filter pouch to the waistband where there is a strong and tight attachment strap. Think Tank sells a pouch which fits firmly. I may have additional gear, such as a dual macro flash, inside the pack. When my tripod will be used repeatedly it will be in my hand, over a shoulder. But a 4 lb tripod carries carries well in either the side mount or rear mount positions. The 22 fits beneath airline seats. Combined with a carry-on roll duffel I can sometimes fly w/o a checked bag. This is an advantage vs. the larger 34L Rotation. The 22 is also a pound lighter. For travel, removing lenses from camera bodies is wise, to protect lens mounts, and allows more to fit in the belt pack. Additional lenses and bodies can be placed in the main compartment, protected with neoprene pouches. Not all the gear taken on a trip need be carried on your back to every site, not if you anticipate your needs well. Once muscle memory for hooking the magnetic latch becomes habituated, operation of the rotation feature is instinctive. I added shock cord on the rear for stowing muddy knee pads. Dirt should not be allowed to contaminate a camera bag. There are many situations in which I do not wish to leave my camera bag on the ground while shooting. By limiting what I walk with to only the items likely to be used, the Rotation only touches the ground when I need to access the main compartment or the top lid pocket for garments or nourishments. I used to convert high end day packs to camera bags. Since getting the Rotation 22 I've not used any of them. The magnetic closure of the belt pack lid is strong. I only close the zippers when using the belt pack by itself. When rotated into the main pack it is not necessary to close the zippers.

Richard H.

Originally posted at

2021-10-10T20:00:00

love this backpack works really well especially when i'm walking with my dog

Rocco M.

Originally posted at

2021-07-05T20:00:00

This backpack is completely brilliant. It's exactly what I wanted. It's completely comfortable because of all of the adjustable straps. The camera compartment is large enough for my mirrorless camera and two lenses (18-55 and 55-200). You can access your camera in just a few seconds! The top compartment has plenty of space for day hikes. The zippers are perfect. Everything about it is well-made and very thoughtful.

Steve A.

Originally posted at

2021-06-22T20:00:00

This is a great backpack that stops all the carry on with using a camera whilst hiking. Now I can hike and not have to worry about stopping and fussing around to take a photo with my DSLR camera. Keeps my wife happy, as she is not constantly stopping and waiting for me. Great spot for tripod, walking poles and excellent water bladder compartment. Takes a little bit of time working out how the rotation system works, maybe better instructions.

Dale

Originally posted at

2021-05-15T20:00:00

Just received my 22L, version 2. I can only speak for my needs, so here goes: Build quality is top notch, materials are just right. My use is for light day hikes but also walking around town, tourista style. Confirmed I can still fit a 70-200mm in the upper portion with room to spare for a modest amount of other stuff. This was a prime consideration for me. Camera portion will fit my DSLR with one lens ready to go (24mm prime) and one for a quick change, say a 100mm). Everyone gets this bag for the quick access to the camera. Phenomenal design. It's as fast as they advertise, so ++++. The magnetic latch is solid but a little awkward at first. Once you get the location and movement, it works nicely. I'm 6' with a broad chest. Adjustability fits me just fine and when loaded, the weight sits nicely on my hips and shoulders. Well balanced. I think I found my new favorite grab and go bag. My gear has already moved in.

Keith M.

Originally posted at