Strap vs. no strap

The OpTech straps (POTN straps are also OpTechs) have one male and one female connector on the strap, so when you remove it (can be handy when on a tripod for instance) you can connect the strap ends on the camera to get them somewhat out of the way.

The UPstrap straps don't have this nice feature, they have the same connector on both ends of the strap so you're left with the strap ends dangling from the camera. On the other hand I prefer the rest of the design so I've switched to UPstrap despite this drawback.

What is it you like about them more then the POTN? The idea of the opposite gender connectors makes a lot of sense. Any other thins to look for?
I want a strap that is comfortable? How do they compare as far as comfort?

My gripes with my OpTech straps were that the stitching along the edges started to unravel and the non-slip rubber dots started to fall off. I also didn't like how the straps stretch and flex when carrying heavy lenses. The latter is both a plus and a minus, it's comfortable but I didn't have full confidence when the lenses bounce up and down.

The UPstraps are not as comfortable but the non-slip function really works and they feel super strong with heavy gear. They are almost too grippy as you have to lift the strap off the shoulder to adjust the position sometimes.

POTN strap rules! It's a "strap around the neck type" but...
- you can easily transform it to a wrist strap
- you can easily disconnect it, for example to use your camera on a tripod.

P.

A strap is the best way of not dropping your kit. If I have a big lens on I put it over the sholder. Also means you don't have to hold the body when lens changing.

I am using with a Pacsafe anti-cut strap for added security, although its not the most loadbearing strap in the world.

I use a shoulder strap when standing around and a handstrap when shooting. I LOVE the handstrap!

How does the handstrap attach and how is it used?

POTn strap. Only problem is the POTN strap's too big for the epaulettes on the POTN vest, so camera #2 needs to be slung over the shoulder with the strap upside down to be able to fasten the epaulette over it.

TMR Design wrote in post #2136854
How does the handstrap attach and how is it used?

Canon's threads through the strap fitting at the top of the grip and secures to a comparable fitting on the bottom of the grip. It really wants you to be using the grip, in fact that's where Canon includes the directions for installing it.

i have the neck strap attached but it is never around my neck, cant stand it, i just twist it around my wrist a few times if i feel i am in a position it could get loose from my hands

Mathiau wrote in post #2136899
i have the neck strap attached but it is never around my neck, cant stand it, i just twist it around my wrist a few times if i feel i am in a position it could get loose from my hands

That's what I mainly do with mine when I have a small lens on.
If I have the 70-200 on it'll be around my neck.
I never walk with it hanging from the strap without also holding the camera with a hand though. I'm not going to trust a couple thousand dollars in equipment to a $20 strap

Having had a strap fail on my while carrying my 1D, I simply don't truct them anymore.

Simon.

I voted neckstrap, but realistically it's on my shoulder more often than not.

I am sure pro's won't go for this but do some of you find that a shoulder bag is better, and more safe? I don't think I would mind having a bag with some sort of lid that opens easily and quickly so I can just open and grab the camera.
I have seen many bags but they don't look like they provide that kind of access and there would be more fumbling around to open and get the camera out.

With a small enough lens, a shoulder bag will work OK for a single body. But when shooting, strap or no, I usually have the active camera in my left hand ready to bring it up and shoot.