Top 10 Camera Straps of 2018
Image Credit: lechatnoir iStock
I don't think anyone will argue with the sentiment that the camera straps that come with cameras are not good.
In fact, I'd say that most factory camera straps are downright terrible.
They aren't comfortable. They certainly aren't good-looking. And they're easy for would-be thieves to cut and take off with your prized gear.
With all that in mind, making an investment in an aftermarket camera strap makes perfect sense.
The question is, which camera strap is right for you?
Here's our list of the top 10 camera straps of 2018 to help you make a decision.
Leather Camera Straps
There's nothing quite like the comfort and durability of leather. These camera straps capitalize on that to deliver the utmost in camera carrying experiences.
Holdfast MoneyMaker
What landed the Holdfast MoneyMaker at the top of our leather camera strap list is twofold: quality and features.
To say that this thing is built well is the understatement of the century...
The first time I laid hands on a Holdfast MoneyMaker, I was completely speechless - it's that impressive.
But it's not just about looks for the MoneyMaker.
The leather construction means this thing is durable and comfortable.
My MoneyMaker has molded to my body over time, so it's even more comfortable years later than it was when I got it!
What's more, the bridle leather of my particular MoneyMaker has withstood all sorts of photography adventures, and it still looks like a million bucks.
Of course, with this harness system, you can carry two cameras with lenses attached, and with an additional camera leash, you can carry a third camera with lens attached.
On top of that, you can also carry a number of Holdfast's camera bags with the MoneyMaker, so it becomes a complete camera carrying system.
In other words, this is the ideal camera strap for photographers that need to have tons of gear on their person (i.e., wedding photographers).
By having two or three cameras at your fingertips, you can minimize lens changes and maximize the time you spend actually taking photos!
Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker
Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo
There was just one problem with the original Holdfast MoneyMaker - it was designed for carrying multiple cameras.
Not all of us need that capability, which is why the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo is a great choice for shooters that want a luxury strap but typically don't shoot with multiple cameras.
Just like its big brother, the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo was designed with both form and function in mind.
Using the same leathers and hardware, the Solo looks every bit as swanky as the original, but in a smaller package.
The key to the Solo's success is the stabilizer strap that wraps around your side to keep the Solo in place on your shoulder.
Combined with the big, soft, contoured shoulder strap, you have a system that offers both incredible comfort while carrying your gear and supreme functionality.
The Solo stays put on your shoulder, right where you want it to be, and your camera stays put at your side, out of the way yet right at your fingertips when you need it.
The Holdfast Belt Anchor makes that possible because it locks your camera to your belt. Then, to use it, simply pull the release tab and bring your camera to your eye to take a shot.
Better still, you can use the Solo to carry additional gear, just like you can with the original MoneyMaker.
Carry a Holdfast Cell Phone Pouch or add a Holdfast Lens pouch to increase the versatility of this beautiful and functional camera strap!
Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo
Budget Camera Straps
On a budget but still want a high-quality strap? Look no further...
HiiGuy Camera Strap
What's great about the HiiGuy camera strap is that you get a whole lot of bang for your buck.
That is, where other budget-friendly camera straps might be flimsy or poorly made, neither of those things are true of this well-built strap.
HiiGuy went through the trouble of investing in better-quality materials, that way they could provide you with a great strap that will be durable over the years but that's still budget-friendly.
Consider as well that this highly-adjustable strap is perfect for just about any photographer, whether you're short or tall or whether you shoot with a big DSLR or a small mirrorless camera.
The large shoulder pad has tons of padding to help distribute the weight of your gear over a larger area, thereby making it possible for you to go out and shoot for longer periods of time with less fatigue.
And since the strap's mount plate is also padded, you can rest assured that your HiiGuy camera strap won't scratch or damage your camera.
This thing even comes with a three-year warranty and a host of other goodies like a SD/Micro SD Case, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and an eBook of photography tips!
Learn more about the HiiGuy Camera Strap
BlackRapid Curve Breathe
Not only is the BlackRapid Curve Breathe camera strap a great budget-friendly buy, but it's also one of the most comfortable straps on the market today.
As you can see above, the large shoulder pad increases the area of your body that bears the weight of your gear. And since that surface area is so large, you can shoot longer and in greater comfort.
The shoulder pad also has moisture-wicking properties, that way you're less likely to get all sweaty when you're working hard to get the shot.
Beyond that, the Stabilizing Strap that comes with this camera strap helps ensure that your camera stays put on your shoulder, right where you want it.
This strap is designed to be worn across a right-handed shooter's body, so it drapes toward the right hip where the camera rests.
When carrying a camera with this strap, the camera rests upside down, that way there's less of a chance that you accidentally bang your lens against something as you walk.
Add in brass and zinc alloy hardware, and you have a winning combination for a budget-friendly strap!
Learn more about the BlackRapid Curve Breathe Camera Strap
Peak Design Slide Lite
Not all camera straps are ideally suited for a mirrorless camera, but the Peak Design Slide Lite sure is...
The Slide Lite is an incredibly versatile strap that can be worn as a sling, a neck strap, or a shoulder strap.
It's got dual quick adjusters that give you easy reconfiguration possibilities and that allow you to refine how you carry your gear.
Additionally, the Slide Lite has a silicone-coated grip that keeps the strap securely in place when using it as a shoulder strap.
The anchor connectors and hardware on this strap are both low profile, that way you can protect against snags.
Speaking of the anchor connectors, they're smaller and faster than on other Peak Design rigs, so you get high performance while also enjoying a leaner, meaner strap!
Learn more about the Peak Design Slide Lite
Op/Tech USA Utility Strap-Sling
For a low price, you sure do get a lot out of the Op/Tech USA Utility Strap-Sling.
First of all, the thick neoprene padding is a dream for carrying your gear for long periods of time.
Secondly, the strap connects with loops to the side of your camera, meaning that your tripod socket is free. Not all straps can claim that!
What's more, Op/Tech's "Uni loop" connectors make it a breeze to connect the strap to your camera.
They feel strong and secure, and require you to squeeze on both sides to get them to release, so you don't have to worry about theft or inadvertent releases.
The contoured shoulder pad offers tons of surface area for distributing weight, and its non-skid surface keeps the strap solidly in place on your shoulder.
It's not a bad combination of features, to say the least!
Learn more about the Op/Tech USA Utility Strap-Sling
JOBY UltraFit Sling Strap
Yet another excellent budget option is the JOBY UltraFit Sling Strap.
With sizes that range from small to XXL and models specifically for men and women, this strap offers more versatility than most at this price point.
For use with mirrorless cameras or DSLRs, the UltraFit Sling Strap has layered pad technology to enhance the comfort experience.
Additionally, there's an ergonomically placed pivot ring that allows the strap to conform to your body for even more comfort.
What's more JOBY has ensured that you have hands-free stability because this strap secures your camera close to your body.
With your camera at your fingertips, you'll be ready to take a photo in mere moments, yet when you don't need your camera, it's out of the way.
It's a simple strap, but one that's highly functional and gets high marks for its comfort. What more could you want?!
Learn more about the JOBY UltraFit Sling Strap
Fashion Camera Straps
If you want something both fashionable and functional, these straps might just be what you're looking for.
Hyperion Camera Strap
What began as a personal DIY project for friends and family is now a company that crafts handmade camera straps for photographers the world over.
Hyperion Camera Straps are gorgeous, to be sure, but they're also affordable, which is a nice combination!
What you'll appreciate the most about this camera strap is that it's completely customizable.
That is, you can choose from over 900 different color combinations to create a strap that has just the look you're going for.
Hyperion straps give you tons of versatility, too.
You can order a strap for your mirrorless camera or one for your DSLR.
There's wrist straps as well as shoulder straps that extend to over 53 inches long as well.
These things are also highly durable, so you know that when you make an investment in one, you're getting a strap that looks awesome and will last a good, long while!
Learn more about Hyperion Camera Straps
Capturing Couture Scarf Camera Strap
If you're looking for a camera strap that's both fashionable and incredibly comfortable, look no further!
The Capturing Couture Scarf Camera Strap is unique, to say the least, but they aren't just eye candy.
Instead, these gorgeous straps offer the same strength and safety of any other strap on the market.
Additionally, Capturing Couture has made sure that these straps are highly adjustable to fit your body.
On top of that, the high-quality knit fabric makes for a gorgeous and comfortable carrying experience.
You can wear this strap as a shoulder strap or a sling strap, and with a variable length of 35-53 inches, it can be adjusted to suit your specific needs.
There's even a hidden pocket built into the strap for your phone, extra memory cards, and other small items!
Learn more about the Capturing Couture Scarf Camera Strap