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I own two bags and a back pack from LowePro and I can't say in hindsite that I'd buy them again. I use the feature quite a bit, yet the snap buckles hold firm for me. They are sturdy, but don't make efficient use of space. However, I've been using the Lowepro Transporter Camera Strap with a Nikon D700 for a year and have not experienced problems with the security of the quick release buckles. In fact, I have found the strap to be to be very comfortable and durable. The small CF card pouch is very handy and I have no concerns about it falling off.
I feel this strap is well made with one exception: The side release buckles induces a fear of inadvertently opening. Otherwise it is nicely made, looks good, is very strong (except at the release buckles) and is quite comfortable. This is easily solved by using the twist ties that come with the packaging to secure the buckles. This at least affords a little peace of mind. It seems to me to be a good value. I am happy with it so far.
Okay, first the pros:SturdyShoulder pad has a "tack" to prevent slipping off shoulderSoft feel around neck (not stiff)media pouch for SD cardsquick disconnect latcheslonger than standard strap that my camera shipped with (nice since I am tall)Now the cons:rings instead of cloth ends attach to camera, over time wear off finish.quick disconnect latches, not enough strength, too easy to disconnectI would buy this strap over again, if I had the chance. It's solid, great craftmanship, media pouch is great, and disconnect problem is easily remedied by tossing a couple tip ties in the loops. You are defeating the purpose of the quick disconnect, but if you are weary of dropping your expensive equipment, this might give you piece of mind.
The quick release makes me nervous about accidentally dropping the camera. This strap is much better than the one that came with my pentax DSLR camera as it is longer, more comfortable and has great adjustability. What I did not like about is the quick release mechanism and the stiffness of the strap at the binding posts of the camera. The stiff material used on the strap that attaches to the posts on the camera makes it akward to move the camera around. It causes the strap to get in the way of you being able to get your eye in the viewfinder and to place it back in your case.
When I first bought an SLR it came with a very uncomfortable strap that was emblazoned with CANON EOS on it. On the other hand, if you're more of a scenery photographer like me strolling the jungles of Hawaii with a single camera and a compact telephoto, you might not be as at-risk from an accidental disconnect. I do find the clips very easy to operate but I've never had a latch trigger accidentally and I've had this strap for years.That's about it.
What I'm saying is that the straps available are significantly different from one another that you really can't compare easily between them: some are colorful, some are black, some are made of neoprene, some have quick release buckles, some have extra padding etc. Remember, if you're carrying two heavy cameras and are running somewhere regularly- it only takes one accidental unlatching to drop $5,000 in equipment (yikes). Now, I don't mind some advertisement for Canon but overall, I prefer a more nondescript camera strap.I quickly realized that there are tons of different camera straps out there but that there are very few options for the consumer.
I really like this strap but it could be made perfect if Lowepro put in a double action safety on the quick releases. I guess what I'm saying is that its hard to compare and contrast this strap to others.For me, I was looking for a black strap that was comfortable, with some padding, and a quick connect on at least one side. I found this strap fit the mold nicely.Here are some pros:- its comfortable- it has the quick release on both sides (they've never failed me)- quick release are easy to release but don't get triggered accidentally (my experience lugging my camera through Hawaii to Turkey to all over the world over a few years)- very easy to change the configuration from neck carry to shoulder carry- the memory card pouch is FANTASTIC - makes it very easy to store and reach for your memory cards when you need them- the strap has a slight pattern that helps make it grippy and prevent slippage from your shoulderHere are some cons:- After a while your neck can get sweaty (I imagine that's universal for all straps)- I do worry that the clips will release accidentally, there is no safety catch or double action mechanism (I have wired one of mine with a twisty so I only have to worry about one side (the one I use most often).
I think that kind of an environment increases the likelihood of failure for this strap. If in doubt, twisty tie it but remember you're going to lose that aspect of versatility frorm the strap.
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