MrJan Gear released the Hippo Rolltop Bag in spring 2025, and I got to test it during Finland’s usually rainy summer. The summer turned out to be surprisingly dry, but towards the end, rain and ground moisture appeared — conditions where the Hippo Rolltop Bag truly belongs.
Hippo is a 100% waterproof backpack designed for large 400–1200 mm telephoto lenses, with the camera attached, so the setup can be pulled out ready to use, with the lens hood facing correctly. It’s worth noting that I don’t have the new RF 1200 mm on the shelf to test the exact fit.
So this is not just any camera backpack, but a special-purpose pack for a smaller group of users who need a weather-protected solution for valuable super telephoto lenses that must be quickly ready for action.
What kind of use?
I see two types of use cases for myself with this backpack. The first is wandering in the forest, carrying 400 mm telephoto lens instead of a general 100-500mm zoom. Because the weight distribution is centered and the carrying system is sturdy, this setup rides comfortably in the middle of the back.
The second environment is boating, where splashes are likely. The camera setup can be stored safely inside the bag, protected from splashes, and lifted out when needed. The bag is also well-padded, so bumps won’t reach the gear.
In short, it’s suited for environments where you don’t need or don’t want to carry a lot of gear, or where extreme weather protection is required from the bag.
In northern conditions, the bag naturally protects against snow, which is not always dry. Drying the bag at home is easy, since all parts (2 pieces) can be separated effortlessly.
Interchangeable carrying system
In the pictures, the Hippo is fitted with the sturdier Padded detachable carrying system, with thick, padded shoulder straps and padding along the back. The hip belt is the sturdy one known from Boris backpacks.
The alternative carrying system is the basic version, which is cheaper but, in my opinion, not a good fit for this product. The basic version has no hip belt, and because the pack’s center of gravity is surprisingly high, balance is easily lost when carrying.
I’ve kept the 400 mm lens hood attached in the bag, which raises the lens elements and camera higher up toward the mid-to-lower back. This shifts the center of gravity higher, making the pack unstable without a hip belt.
The padded straps cost about €80 more (about €60 vs €140), but they are well worth the investment.
ADDENDUM 27.9.2025: After testing and feedback, a lightweight hip strap has been added to the backpack equipment with the basic version of the carrying system. This is not a padded hip belt, but a strap with a buckle that comes from both sides and attaches at two points on the sides. This eliminates the instability of the lightweight carrying system. In the end, it simply comes down to a matter of comfort.
Customizable and sold separately
The whole system can be customized — you can choose which parts you actually need:
-
Hippo Rolltop Insert — the red padded inner structure, D-shaped with a thick bottom pad, removable with a built-in handle.
-
Hippo Waterproof Rolltop Bag — the waterproof outer shell without straps.
-
Basic detachable carrying system — basic straps, no chest or hip belt.
-
Padded detachable carrying system — the better carrying system shown in the pictures, and my clear favorite.
A note: the carrying systems are compatible with the Boris M backpack. Hopefully, more bags in the series will support the same straps in the future.
For the photographer on the move
The Hippo Rolltop is the ultimate companion for photographers who demand reliability and protection for their gear. This expertly designed bag lets you carry your lens with the camera body attached, along with the lens hood securely in place. Inside, you’ll find a protective insert with an extra-padded bottom to protect your lens. The insert is easy to remove, and we’ve added a convenient handle to effortlessly pull it out when needed.
Need flexibility? The Detachable Carrying System allows you to remove the carrying system entirely if it’s not required for your shoot. Plus, we’ve built the entire system from TPU material, ensuring your gear stays dry, even in the harshest weather. It’s robust and 100% waterproof, giving you peace of mind no matter the conditions.
On the outside, you’ll find 2 Molle strips for attaching extra accessories, from carabiners to tripods, ensuring your gear is always within reach. Additional outer pockets provide even more space for smaller items like filters, memory cards, or a quick snack during those long shoots.
The Hippo Rolltop is designed to accommodate super-telephoto lenses, from 400mm to 1200mm, with your camera body attached. Ready to take on wet and unpredictable environments, this bag offers ultimate protection and functionality for photographers who push the boundaries of outdoor photography.
Inside, a thoughtful divider helps keep your smaller essentials organized and ready for action.
For secure closure, we recommend rolling down the top at least 3 times before fastening the buckle, ensuring your equipment stays safe and dry.
Bag dimensions (outer):
-
Base (D-shaped): 23.5 cm
-
Back to front: 23 cm
-
Height (open): 100 cm
-
Height (closed): 80 cm
Weight:
-
Insert: 1100 g
-
Rolltop bag (without insert): 900 g
-
Total: 2000 g
MOLLE panels on each side:
-
Height: 35 cm
-
Width: 14 cm
Tasmanian Tiger pouches for MOLLE system
Different MOLLE-compatible pouches are available from several manufacturers. The best-known to me are Tasmanian Tiger and 5.11. From US Eagle, Varusteleka, and many other stores, you can find brands like Särmä, Savotta, and Mil-Tec.
I’ve used Tasmanian Tiger add-on pouches and smaller pockets in my backpacks for years, as mentioned in the Boris backpack section.
The Savotta Side Pouch series is also excellent, available in 4, 6, 8, and 12 liters, giving you quite a large side pouch for spare clothes, for example.
The backpack won’t cost you a cent more if you order it via the link from my site. However, the purchase will be registered as a deal coming through my page, which makes it easier for me to test and present products in the future on my blog.
