Tenba Cooper 15 bag t a glance:
- Large messenger bag
- Houses large DSLR, 15in laptop and up to four lenses
- Made from peach-wax canvas and leather
- Special quiet Velcro allows users to open the bag silently
- Quick access from the top as well as a flap
- Water-repellent with included waterproof cover
- Price: £209
- Website: www.tenba.com/uk
Recent business acquisitions have given Tenba some fresh lifeblood and, as a result, a number of fantastic new products have come to life, including the Tenba Cooper messenger bags. Our review tests the 15, the largest of four Cooper models. These grey-and-black bags are designed to house camera kits of varying sizes. The 15 is said to hold a DSLR up to pro size with a battery grip, and three to four lenses up to a 70-200mm f/2.8, as well as flash and accessories – so everything you’re likely to need on a day’s shooting. The ‘15’ in the name indicates it can accommodate a 15in laptop in the rear compartment, which is padded, as is the main compartment. The latter is removable so the bag can also be used every day.
The exterior is constructed from soft peach-wax cotton canvas that’s coated to make it water-resistant. The trim, details and base are made of leather with a pebble finish to give it more durability and style. Users can get to their kit by lifting the bag’s flap, or there’s a quick-access zip at the top. Inside is another zip for security and added weather-resistance.
Tenba Cooper 15 bag – key features
Trolley strap
At the rear is a strap designed to allow users to slide their bag onto a roller case and keep them together – a great feature for travelling photographers.
Rain cover
Included with the bag is a waterproof rain cover. This is black on one side, and silver on the other to reflect the sun.
Expandable side pockets
On either side of the bag is a small pocket with a zip. When unzipped, these expand, allowing users to store items such as a water bottle or lens.
Tenba Cooper 15 bag – our verdict
If you have a reasonable-sized DSLR kit and prefer a messenger bag over a backpack, the Temba Cooper 15 is great. It’s stylish, comfy to carry (although rather heavy when fully loaded) and offers a lot of protection for your kit. It’s rather expensive, but I have a feeling the high- quality materials push up the price and I’d say with Tenba you really do get what you pay for.
SCORE: 4 out of 5
Where in the range
Tenba Cooper 8
Price: £124
Website: www.tenba.com/uk
The smallest in the Cooper range, the 8 is designed for a small mirrorless camera with two to three lenses plus flash and accessories. There’s also space for an iPad mini too.
Tenba Cooper 13 Slim
Price: £164
Website: www.tenba.com/uk
For the medium mirrorless kit, or even an entry-level DSLR kit, the 13 Slim has a lot to offer. It will house those with ease and has a special section for a laptop or tablet up to 13in.
Tenba Cooper 13 DSLR
Price: £179
Website: www.tenba.com/uk
For those with a large mirrorless kit, medium-sized DSLR or even those who need to carry lots of extra bits, the 13 DSLR offers more space over the Slim – and, of course, room for a 13in laptop.
