A couple of years ago, while on the never-ending quest to find the best camera bag, something caught my eye in one of the many excellent Sony videos from Mark Galer. It was a Wotancraft crossbody sling, and it stuck in my head. Was this the perfect small camera bag? I had to find out.
Fast forward two years, and I had to scratch that itch. After searching for Wotancraft in the U.K., it was clear they weren’t represented here, so I reached out directly and begged to borrow one to make a Wotancraft Easy Rider V2 Sling Bag 10L review.
And that is how it all began…
Let me start by saying that I am extremely fortunate to have a very understanding partner who doesn’t lose her shizzle when she tries to pass the small mountain of camera sling bags and backpacks to get into my home office, although I am sure that looms ever closer on the horizon. We tell ourselves the next will be last one, but we all know how that usually turns out. Amirite?
I digress.
You should also know that all of the links in this review are affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you click and decide to purchase a bag directly. You can’t buy a new Wotancraft bag in the U.K. currently, instead, you have to order directly from them in Taiwan and import it, which I talk about later. Meanwhile, let’s get on with it, starting with a little background.
What is the Easy Rider V2 Sling Bag?
The Easy Rider V2 Sling Bag has been refined based on customer feedback for over 10 years, which is one of the reasons why it’s instantly so good in use. The original design was inspired by one of the Wotancraft team who is a keen cyclist.
This is something we share a passion for, bikes and cameras, both of which I love. You see, this really was destiny.
So, the design of this crossbody camera bag differs from others due to a clever three-point harness system, which is conveniently removable for when you want to walk around on your own two legs rather than rolling on two wheels.
But that’s not all, there are loads of quality-of-life refinements inside and out, which make this a brilliant choice not just for your photo days, but also for everyday carry. So, let’s get into it with a brief outline of the range.
What versions are there and what’s it for?
There are three second-generation Easy Rider V2 sling bags in the range, which come in two colours. Incidentally, the black and khaki colours run throughout the entire Wotancraft product lineup. Although I personally prefer the black camera bag, I have seen a lot of the khakis online, which are also pretty lit.
The three size options are:
I feel like the 10L strikes the perfect balance between size and load capacity for my typical daily gear requirements when a backpack is overkill, although all three definitely have their own pros and cons.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want at least two of these in your collection. Having said that, their other range of camera slings is pretty awesome too… but stop, I digress again.
So the premise of the range is that you can cycle, ride your motorbike, or use any other form of transportation where you don’t want the bag swinging around while at speed, which it really doesn’t, thanks to that aforementioned unique harness system.
Other than for biking, the Easy Rider V2 carries much like other messenger-style bags, albeit with several really nice touches that set it apart from the competition. But before we get into all of the features, let’s take a deeper dive into the design, which is what draws you to it in the first instance. It is eye-catching after all, right?
Design, Materials, Aesthetics and Whatnot
The design team at Wotancraft must be pretty pleased with themselves. They’ve created a bag that really does look the business while also being incredibly practical, which is a feat rarer than my Sony camera having a clean sensor.
The exterior features tough Dualcoat Water Repellent 500D Nylon Canvas, which was developed in 2024 and reaches eco-friendly C0 standards. This is quite a big deal, and we cover PFAS-Free materials in more depth later. The idea is that all of your expensive contents inside the bag will stay dry when it rains, which seems like a must for any bag in the UK. It is complemented by water-resistant zips, making a very nice touch in my book.
Other materials used include:
Vegetable-tanned cowhide leather
Ultra-strength bonded Nylon 6.6 thread
Medical grade durable microfibre lining
Cotton fabric lining
High-density EVA foam padding (rear panel)
YKK water resistant zipper
Despite all of the high-brow materials used, it weighs just 850g. This is just perfect, as it feels not too heavy (which I hate, I’m getting old), but also not so lightweight that it feels flimsy and flaps around. So it’s nice-looking, made with high-end weather-resistant materials, and is the perfect weight. Convinced already? Wait, there’s much more.
For photo and video creators, Wotancraft has made an optional removable camera bag insert, which instantly converts between an everyday bag to a dedicated camera sling bag, so it’s kind of essential if you wanna pack your camera gear.
The padded insert is as well thought out as the bag itself, with a sort of flap lid, space for two camera bodies (no lens attached), and additional lenses. Alternatively, you can pop a camera with a lens attached inside and have space for another lens, which is the way I like to roll.
The insert doesn’t fit in the Mini, as it is just too small, however you can use optional inserts to divvy up the space just how your camera likes it.
The whole setup looks great, with everything in its right place. You can even get internal and external modules if you like to expand the volume and store additional items inside and out. More on accessories later, let’s take a look at some of the features next.
What are the best and worst features?
There’s loads to love about the Wotancraft Easy Rider V2 Sling Bag, though of course it has its pros and cons. A list seems appropriate, and you can decide for yourself which features are most important to you. Let’s start with the features that I love.
Comfort. This bag really is comfortable, which is among the prime reasons for getting any bag in my world. You can pack a decent amount of weight into even 10 litres of capacity, especially when you add extra modules, so comfort is king. The shoulder strap padding is thick, ventilated, and slides easily, so you benefit from that comfort however low you sling it. While on the subject of comfort, the connectors have a swivel functionality, which lets the bag rotate slightly and keeps it perfectly positioned for comfort, whatever load it’s rocking.
Usability. Yes, this is eminently usable, by which I mean everything just works in the field. The zips are smooth, the pockets and bag itself stretch out as this is expandable, so it can be slim or beefy. The shoulder strap locking mechanism is a fantastic touch, which allows you to slide the length of the strap shorter or longer when you want to access or stow the bag behind you. It’s all cleverly designed for usability, and it shows.
I just love the Fidlocks, which is the name of the proprietary main buckles, that are so easy to use it’s a wonder I’ve not seen them elsewhere. Perhaps Wotancraft could license them to other manufacturers, as this is one of the best implementations of magnetic hardware. Basically, you can release the buckle by pressing the middle as normal, then once the two parts of the buckle are near to each other, magnets automatically lock it back into place. This allows for single-handed opening and is so simple it’s pure genius. What it does is make access quick and easy, while still being secure from any unwanted access to the interior.
Handles. It has just the right number of grab handles, letting you pick it up from any angle without being overcomplicated. That includes the leather feature handle, which is one of five, and defines the overall styling. Some other bags have frustratingly few, like Bellroy’s camera sling, which has zero.
The 3-point harness is functional but can be a little cumbersome. While it does clasp the bag securely to your back, some users might find it too much like hard work. Personally, when I’m out on the trails, this has become my go-to because it stops the sling from swinging around, which is especially useful when there’s a small tripod attached. When i’m on Shanks's pony, I lose the extra strap. Simple.
Storage. There are three main compartments, which is also just right for me. When I was younger, I wanted nothing more than dozens of pockets, but these days I’ve learned that less is more. JK aside, the slimmer front and rear pockets are excellent, although the front is only accessible with the Fidlocks released. The rear pocket is large, so it fits a large phone, wallet, notepad, and quite a lot of other items. If you don’t have any attachments in camera mode, you could throw your polariser, batteries, and whatnot in here. The main compartment is accessed by a lovely smooth YKK zip and has room for your camera insert, or some dividers, or it can be just a large storage area for everyday items. There’s also a slimmer pocket in the main for a tablet, as well as smaller zipped accessory pockets, so if you’re into organisation, this bag has you well and truly covered.
Design. With elements like the stylish branded leather, brass rivets, and overall styling, the aesthetics warrant another mention. It really works for me and stands out in a crowded sling bag market, though of course that’s personal, so let me know what you think.
That brings us onto the negatives. The primary one for me is that the main opening is a little narrow, with the YKK zipper teeth right where your camera passes. Unfortunately, my kit isn’t built like a Leica, so I have to be a little careful not to scuff anything on the way in and out.
I have heard some note that this is on the larger side, which it definitely is. However, that’s perfect for my camera and accessories. Aside from that, the only thing I would like to see is a dedicated water bottle pocket, although when you’re biking there would be no easy way to keep a bottle secure. You can, of course, add a MOLLE bottle holder, and I completely understand the omission. I get thirsty, is all.
Modular Bag Accessories
Wotancraft refers to them as ‘Armour Exterior Modules’, and at first, I didn’t really see the appeal. However, once I’d attached the two they provided for this review, I was quickly impressed by the additional functionality they offer.
With a lens blower and cloth in one, and a camera remote plus CPL filter in the other, my most commonly used photo accessories were always within quick reach.
Wotancraft has dozens of interior and exterior modules in various shapes and sizes to expand any of their MOLLE-compatible bags, not only increasing capacity but also providing quick access. I’m a believer.
If you’ve already elected to pay for shipping from Taiwan, it makes sense to throw a couple of these purpose-made armour modules in the box, although you can of course, use other branded MOLLE accessories too.
How does it compare to other camera sling bags?
There’s no full comparison with other bags in this review, as there are so many to choose from, but let me know if that’s of interest. I will say that I’ve used several cross body camera bag models recently, including ones from Billingham, Ona, PGYTech, and a few others in the aforementioned mountainous collection.
Each has its benefits and drawbacks however, it’s the Wotancraft that I come back to most frequently, not just when I want to ride trails with some camera gear, but also when I want the most rugged-looking option for everyday shoots.
And that is how I would describe the Wotancraft Easy Rider V2 Sling Bag…
Rugged, utilitarian, stylish, and practical in equal measure. If these are the characteristics you’re looking for in a convertible camera/everyday sling bag, then head over to WotanCraft and browse their superb range of camera bags, slings, backpacks, accessories and more.
Is it Safe to Order Direct from Wotancraft in Taiwan?
Ordering from another country can seem daunting, especially after Brexit, when there’s still some confusion about import duties and taxes. Ordering directly from Wotancraft in Taiwan might sound worrying, but without a UK supplier, it’s probably the best option if you want one of their camera bags.
You do benefit from a 3 year free repair warranty (from date of purchase) for items purchased from the Wotancraft official website too.
Shipping to the UK is free on orders over $100.00 and costs $19.00 for orders under that. In my experience it took just over a week, and I was kept informed of progress the entire time, first by Wotancraft and then by FedEx, who handled the delivery.
You’re buying a premium-quality bag and may need to pay import duties, so bear that in mind when considering the final price.
Read more first-hand experiences from people who ordered directly from Wotancraft on reddit.com.
With that out of the way I wanted to shed some light onto the new bag material being used.
Eco textile
WotanCraft has stopped using Cordura Nylon for the Easy Rider V2, choosing to develop a unique Dualcoat Water Repellent 500D Nylon Canvas textile that is more water resistant and durable, as well as being PFAS-Free. The material effectively prevents water from penetrating, with similar effect as a canvas tent.
Wotancraft worked with Adventure Lifestyle Photographer and Video Maker Alex Wander, editorial and commercial photographer Justin Mott amongst others to field test the new material, so we’re in good hands.
More about C0 finishes
C0 finishes refer to a type of Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating that’s more environmentally friendly than the commonly used old DWR. C0 finishes contain no harmful per-fluorinated chemicals (PFCs), which are known to persist in the environment. The result is fabric that resists water but still breathes, which is ideal for outdoor gear and these weather-resistant bags.
Why Use C0 Finishes?
The main reason is that it’s PFAS-free, which avoids long-lasting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which can accumulate in the environment and living organisms, which is a clear environmental benefit. By removing harmful fluorochemicals, C0 coatings reduce environmental impact.
Durability and effectiveness
C0 finishes create an invisible barrier that beads water on the material’s surface, protecting contents from rain. They’re not quite as effective at repelling oil as older C6 coatings, but the trade-off is minor for applications like camera bags.
Research and development has improved how long the coatings last, so water repellency now lasts well through repeated use and washing, although you probably won’t be washing your camera bag too often.
Nobody’s getting on a soapbox here, but credit where it’s due as Wotancraft genuinely seems to be making gear that is both durable and does less harm in the process. Me like, end of.