Gura Gear

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Overview

Gura Gear produces lightweight, weather-resistant camera bags using X-Pac VX-21 and VX-42 sailcloth materials, targeting photographers and travelers needing durable carry solutions for gear under airline weight limits. The brand focuses on backpacks, duffels, and everyday carry options designed for professional and amateur photographers, with distribution through retailers like B&H and direct sales, including recent expansion to Europe and Asia warehouses.¹³⁴⁶⁷

History

Gura Gear was co-founded in 2008 by wildlife photographer Andy Biggs and Trevor Peterson after facing carry-on restrictions during travel to East Africa, leading to the initial Kiboko backpack sketch. The company was acquired by Tamrac, where it was rebranded as Tamrac G-Elite and operations shifted focus. In 2018, co-founder Trevor Peterson regained control and relaunched Gura Gear independently with an updated Kiboko backpack incorporating customer feedback and core X-Pac materials. Key milestones include the 2019 Kiboko update, 2021 Chobe 2.0 release, and 2022 Kiboko City Commuter launch.¹³⁴⁶

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Kiboko Backpacks	Lightweight travel camera backpacks	$250 - $400
Chobe Series	Everyday carry camera bags	$150 - $250
Kiboko City Commuter	Urban commuter backpack for mirrorless systems	$300 - $350
Mara Duffels	Travel duffel for photo gear	$200 - $300

Manufacturing

Products are made with X-Pac VX-21 and VX-42 fabrics produced in the USA by Dimension-Polyant; Gura Gear was the first to use VX-21 in wide production for bags. Manufacturing details beyond material sourcing are not specified, with sales through direct-to-consumer and retail channels.³⁴⁶⁷

Notable Products

Kiboko Backpack - Ultra-lightweight backpack designed for airline carry-on with large gear capacity, updated in 2019.
Kiboko City Commuter - Slim roll-top backpack with rear panel access for mirrorless cameras, launched 2022.
Chobe 2.0 - Everyday carry bag released in 2021 with technical features for daily use.
Mara Travel Duffel - Duffel bag for travel and photo equipment transport.

Reputation

Gura Gear is regarded by photographers for durable, lightweight bags using premium X-Pac sailcloth that withstand extreme conditions without material failure over 12+ years. Enthusiasts value the design-by-photographers approach and responsiveness to feedback in relaunches, though past Tamrac acquisition led to temporary loss of brand trust due to quality shifts. Professionals appreciate weather resistance and airline compliance, with some noting higher costs compared to competitors.¹³⁶

Sources (7)