Lowepro DryZone 200 Backpack

Photo By: Robert J Carmody 

I have been using the Lowepro Dryzone 200 for some time now and thought I would share my experiences and thoughts about it. I started doing a lot more kayak photography and knew that I needed a bag to safely hold my gear while on the water. I needed a bag that was waterproof, could fit my 300 2.8 attached, and could fit accessibly into my kayak. After I did my homework, it was clear that the Lowepro DryZone 200 would do the trick.

Photo By: Robert J Carmody 

The exterior measurements of the DryZone 200 are 14.6W X 11.4D X 19.1H inches. It fits nicely in the kayak and still fits my 300 2.8 attached like I wanted. When my son comes along and I need more space in the boat, I can just detach the outer shell and just bring the smaller waterproof compartment (Drypod) along. The Drypod has a patented waterproof TIZIP™ zipper providing 100% watertight protection. It is also has heavy-duty, padded camera compartments inside which are fully customizable. The water-resistant outer shell has a technical backpack harness, tuck-away tripod holder, self-draining mesh pockets, drain hole, rubber handle, and attachment loops for SlipLock™ accessories.

Photo By: Robert J Carmody 

Fully loaded, I had my Canon Mark3, Canon 300 2.8L, Canon 70-200 2.8L, Canon 24-70 2.8L and 580EX flash in the Dryzone 200. That was on a recent trip to the Florida Keys and it not only did a flawless job but was quite comfortable to wear, as well. The Drypod made for a perfect day bag on the water many times during that trip.

Photos By: Robert J Carmody 

The Drypod itself has no handles so for my Wilderness Systems Commander 140 I found it helpful to add a nylon handle. This allows me to pull the Drypod towards me with my Bending Branches Classic Angler paddle very easily.

Photo By: Robert J Carmody 

The Dryzone 200 is a great bag for an adventurous day on the water. I have peace of mind on the water knowing that my cameras, lenses, and gear are all well protected whether they are in the full bag setup or the conveniently small Drypod. Even if I accidentally drop the bag overboard, the Dryzone 200 is designed to float and keep my gear nice and dry.

Photo By: Robert J Carmody 

The bag may be a little bulky for some smaller kayaks, but it is ideal for anyone on or around the water with a camera. It has provided me opportunities to get the shots like the ones below.

 Photo By: Scott Jontes

Photo By: Scott Jontes

Taking my camera gear on the water was nerve wrecking before I picked up the Dryzone 200. Now I focus my attention on capturing the beauty around me instead of worrying about gear in the boat.

I would like to note that when I first got the DryZone 200, I owned a Perception Pescador 12, a traditional sit-on type kayak. I have since moved to a Wilderness Systems Commander 140, a hybrid type kayak that could be described as a cross between a kayak and a canoe. The Commander is a great photo platform which played a role in my decision to purchase it.

I would also like to the Robert J Carmody who helped me with the photos for this post. You can see more of his work at www.robertjc.com

Scott