(Sebastopol, CA, January 4, 2010) – Lowepro, a product design company that builds protective gear for photography equipment and portable electronics, announces the launch of the Pro Runner AW series of backpacks and convertible rollers. This six-model series is streamlined, protective and travel-ready and features Lowepro's classic comfort and organization design details.

"Our Pro Runner AW series embodies what busy photojournalists and location photographers are looking for in a camera backpack," said Tim Grimmer, Lowepro product manager. "They need their carrying solutions to be agile in urban settings and built for hassle-free travel—those qualities define Pro Runner AW," he added.

Each of the backpacks features a lightweight, compact and streamlined shape that's designed to move nimbly through busy airports, metro stations and crowded sidewalks. The four larger models feature padded laptop compartments—the two largest feature a checkpoint-friendly laptop sleeve—so there's no need to remove the laptop from sleeve at the security checkpoint.

Protective features keep these camera backpacks safeguarded from the elements. Lowepro's patented, built-in All Weather AW Cover™ protects backpack contents from rain, sand and dust storms and tucks away when not in use. Rainflap lids cover all the zippered closures and offer added protection for gear. Side compression straps with quick-release buckles (all models except 200 AW) provide extra security on the main camera compartment and compress the pack when a photographer needs to downsize.

The Pro Runner x350 and x450 deliver a convertible solution for globetrotting photographers. The spring-loaded trolley handle and premium, replaceable wheels let the pro move smoothly through busy airports. The inventive harness system quickly converts the roller to a backpack with two easy attachments.

Along with its protective and travel-wise details, Pro Runner AW backpacks are constructed to provide long-wearing comfort and support. A padded mesh backpad offers superior lumbar support and helps wick away moisture. The adjustable, padded shoulder straps provide the wearer with a customized fit and keep weight evenly balanced while moving from location to location. And the tuck-away waiststrap/waitbelt offers stability and helps minimize movement.

Lowepro's legendary organization is purpose built into every corner of the packs. The fully padded and completely customizable main compartments easily adjust for a variety of gear arrangements. A discreet front pocket offers quick access to and organization for personal items like a light jacket, cell phone, or MP3 player. A zippered document pocket (all models except 200 AW and 300 AW) provides a handy place to stash boarding passes or a passport. The Hideaway Tripod Mount™ system secures a compact tripod or monopod to the pack with the top cam lock buckle and strap folding into a storage pocket when not needed.

The six models accommodate a wide range of capacities and ways to pack a variety of camera gear, accessories and lenses sized up to 300mm—from a DSLR with attached lens, plus two or three lenses and accessories in the smallest 200 AW model, to a pro DSLR with attached 300mm lens, three to four extra lenses or accessories and a 17" widescreen laptop in the largest x450 model.
Pro Runner 200 AW and 300 AW are available in Black and Pine Green/Black; Pro Runner 350 AW, 450 AW, x350 AW and x450 AW are available in Black only.

Design Highlights

• Streamlined shape with a travel-friendly profile designed to move nimbly through busy airports and crowded cities.

• Lowepro's patented All Weather AW Cover™ protects entire bag from elements and tucks away when not in use.

• Hideaway Tripod Mount™ system secures a compact tripod or monopod to pack.

• Smooth-operating, premium wheels set in custom housings are removable with
  an Allen wrench (x350 AW and x450 AW models).

• Convertible harness system quickly changes roller to backpack on the x350 AW and x450 AW.

• Fully padded and customizable interior accommodates a complete camera kit, extra accessories, tripod, personal items, plus a laptop in the four largest models.

Click here for more information on the Pro Runner™ AW series

Dimensions

PRO RUNNER 200 AW

INTERIOR:
9.8W x 4.5D x 11.8H in.
25 x 11.5 x 30 cm
EXTERIOR:
11.8W x 6.7D x 14H in.
30 x 17 x 35.5 cm

PRO RUNNER 300 AW

INTERIOR:
11.2W x 4.5D x 15.2H in.
28.5 x 11.5 x 47 cm
EXTERIOR:
13W x 7.5D x 17.3H in.
33 x 19 x 44 cm

PRO RUNNER 350 AW

INTERIOR:
11.2W x 4.5D x 15.2H in.
28.5 x 11.5 x 38.5 cm
EXTERIOR:
13W x 10.4D x 17.8H in.
33 x 26.5 x 45.5 cm

PRO RUNNER 450 AW

INTERIOR:
12.2W x 6.7D x 18.5H in.
31 x 17 x 47 cm
EXTERIOR:
13.4W x 11.4D x 19.9H in.
34 x 29 x 50.5 cm

PRO RUNNER x350 AW

INTERIOR:
11.8W x 5.1D x 15.6H in.
30 x 13 x 39.5 cm
EXTERIOR:
13W x 11.2D x 18.3H in.
33 x 28.5 x 46.5 cm

PRO RUNNER x450 AW

INTERIOR:
12.8W x 6.3D x 17.5H in.
32.5 x 16 x 44.5 cm
EXTERIOR:
14W x 12.6D x 20.3H in.
35.5 x 32 x 51.5 cm

About Lowepro
It started with inventive spirit in a small Colorado garage over 40 years ago. Since then, Lowepro's camera bags have been traveling the world, earning the loyalty and admiration of the best photographers, and setting the industry standard for inventive, purpose-built products. Our collections include professional-grade designs for cameras, notebooks, imaging accessories and portable consumer electronics. It is our passion and privilege to provide accessible, comfortable and protective designs for our customers. Lowepro products are available around the globe, for every climate, for every condition. Wherever you go, chances are you'll find us there. To learn more about our inventive spirit, please visit www.lowepro.com.