Matin Balade Bag 100: A Stylish and Functional Camera Companion

For the past few years, my go-to camera has been the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, paired with a few lenses that I carry with me almost everywhere. Until recently, I used the Manfrotto Active Shoulder 5 camera bag to lug it all around. While the bag’s size was just right for my kit, the usability was, to put it kindly, a challenge.

Imagine trying to unzip a bag with one hand while the zipper runs in a U-shape, all while the long side of the bag hugs tightly against your body. It’s a bit like trying to open a stubborn clam—awkward and frustrating. As someone who frequently needs to grab the camera quickly, this design flaw was wearing me out.

Enter the Matin Balade Bag 100, which I stumbled upon secondhand on Findit.fi. It’s a similar size to the Manfrotto but far more practical and, let’s face it, much more stylish. The retro look, coupled with the durable cotton canvas material, gives it an aesthetic that doesn’t scream “camera bag”—a subtle feature I appreciate for safety reasons while traveling.

Practicality Meets Style

The Matin Balade Bag 100 isn’t just about looks. It comes equipped with two adjustable dividers secured by Velcro, which allow you to organize a compact mirrorless camera and up to two small lenses. The interior space is snug, ensuring your gear stays in place during your adventures.

In addition to the main compartment, the bag offers:

• Three front pockets: Two smaller ones for quick access, perfect for memory cards or lens caps, and one larger Velcro-sealed pocket.
• A rear zippered pocket: Ideal for storing a wallet or phone securely.
• Drawstring side pockets: Convenient for holding items like a water bottle or a compact tripod.

The main flap of the bag, sealed with Velcro, folds back completely when opened, making it easy to access your gear. It also covers the three front pockets when closed, adding an extra layer of protection. For the main compartment, there’s a double zipper system, which I found much more intuitive to use than the U-shaped zipper on the Manfrotto.

Built for Comfort and Flexibility

The shoulder strap attached to the bag uses sturdy metal loops and can extend up to 150 cm, with a removable shoulder pad for extra comfort. There are even extra loops on the sides of the bag, should you want to attach accessories, and a loop on the back to hang it conveniently when not in use.

If you ever need to use it as a regular shoulder bag, no problem! You can remove the rigid bottom and the internal dividers, transforming it into a stylish everyday carry bag.

Specifications

• Material: Cotton canvas
• External Dimensions: 20 x 30 x 12 cm
• Internal Dimensions: 17 x 23 x 10 cm
• Weight: 0.8 kg
• Strap Length: Adjustable up to 150 cm

Conclusion

Overall, the Matin Balade Bag 100 has proven to be a fantastic upgrade over my previous bag. It’s a perfect blend of style, functionality, and practicality. The thoughtful design makes accessing your gear a breeze, while the retro aesthetics ensure you’re carrying something that looks as good as it performs. Whether you’re heading out for a quick photo walk or embarking on a longer trip, this bag will keep your gear safe and easy to access.