Choosing the perfect fit: A guide to Peak Design camera straps
When it comes to photography, having the right gear is essential. While we often focus on the camera body and lens, there’s one often-overlooked accessory that can make a significant difference in your photography experience: the camera strap. Finding the perfect camera strap is a little like finding the perfect camera bag. It’s often an endless pursuit, with some good, some bad, some fantastic.
Peak Design, a company known for its innovative and high-quality camera accessories, offers a diverse range of camera straps that cater to the different needs and preferences of photographers. I have tried quite a few from their range and thought I’d share my experiences with each. Some are great, some are OK and some I honestly didn’t really like. But that is a personal choice and doesn’t mean they won’t suit you.
The Peak Design Slide Lite Strap, Anchor Points and Capture Clip
Note: Peak Design sent the Anchor Links, the Slide Lite, and the Capture Clip to review and keep. I additionally purchased the Cuff and the Clutch. However, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts about these straps are my own.
Peak Design Anchor Links
Pros
Peak Design’s Anchor Links are a unique accessory designed to enhance the versatility of their camera straps. These small, yet robust connectors allow you to attach your camera to any Peak Design strap as well as the Travel Tripod, making it easy to switch between different straps or configurations.
The Anchor Links are designed to hold up to 200 pounds, ensuring the safety of your camera. They are compatible with most camera systems, and they work with any Peak Design strap, making it incredibly easy to adapt your setup to your shooting needs.
I found them a great addition to my camera gear. They are sturdier than I first thought, and I now feel quite confident with them. Much easier than big bulky connections. I can use them in a variety of ways and can use the anchor plate from the Peak Design Travel Tripod on the base of my camera at all times and connect the anchor link to that. It also comes with a variety of extra connections.
Cons
Can be a little fiddly, especially when brand new and stiff. I found after a few uses, they became much easier to manage with my stiff fingers.
Peak Design Cuff Camera Wrist Strap
Peak Design Cuff Wrist Strap
Pros
The Cuff Camera Wrist Strap is designed for photographers who want the utmost in portability and accessibility. This minimalist strap attaches securely to your wrist, ensuring that your camera is always within reach. It’s ideal for those spontaneous moments when you need to grab your camera quickly.
Despite its compact size, the Cuff is built to withstand heavy use. The adjustable aluminium cinch and ultra-strong webbing provide a secure connection to your camera. This strap is perfect for street photographers, travel enthusiasts, and anyone who prefers to have their camera ready at a moment’s notice. It’s the epitome of convenience without sacrificing quality.
I personally found it to be far more comfortable than the Slide Lite Strap and use it in my everyday life. I can leave it on the camera even when I attach the camera to the Peak Design Travel Tripod. This is a great solution for me. I use it with my Sony A7RIII and Sony A7R V and a variety of lenses. Both in and out of the studio.
Even my hubby ended up buying one too.
Cons
While it is easy to put on and it is secure, sometimes I find it a little difficult to adjust the cuff to get it off again. Nothing major, just sometimes a little awkward if you’re in a hurry.
A little stiff when new, but after you’ve worn it for a while it loosens up and is not so stiff.
Peak Design Slide Lite Camera Strap
Pros
The Slide Lite Camera Strap is a smaller, more compact version of the original Slide, designed specifically for mirrorless and smaller DSLR cameras. It retains all the features that have made the Slide so popular, such as the quick-adjust system and padding, but is tailored to the needs of lightweight camera setups.
The Slide Lite’s versatility, and carrying capacity could make it a good choice for mirrorless enthusiasts who want the same quality and convenience as the original Slide but in a more compact package. But…
Cons
Unfortunately, I found it quite uncomfortable over long periods of wear. After using a Black Rapid for about 10 years, I prefer to have more padding over the shoulder. I also found that the strap wasn’t quite long enough. I would prefer it a bit longer, you can always make it shorter. Not my preferred choice. I am not sure if the normal Slide Strap has more padding. There is also a nonslip surface, but I found it didn’t really stop it slipping at all.
I also found it kept getting caught up with backpack straps and such. It needs a padded slide to sit on your shoulder.
Peak Design Capture Camera Clip
The Capture Camera Clip
The Capture Camera Clip is a robust and versatile camera-carrying solution designed to attach to a belt, strap, or backpack. It has become a go-to accessory for many photographers who require quick access to their camera without the hassle of slinging it around their neck or shoulder. Here is the idea behind it…
Clip Features (Pros)
Secure and Quick Attachment: The Capture Camera Clip securely fastens to belts, backpack straps, or any sturdy straps, ensuring your camera stays firmly in place. It uses a quick-release plate that attaches to your camera’s tripod mount. The clip then slides into the baseplate with an audible click, keeping your camera locked in position.
Quick-Release Button: The Capture Camera Clip features a convenient quick-release button that allows you to effortlessly remove your camera when needed. This function is especially handy for those moments when you want to switch to a tripod setup quickly.
Durable Construction: Crafted with robust materials, the Capture Camera Clip is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and everyday use. It can comfortably support pro-level DSLRs and hefty lenses, providing peace of mind that your equipment is safe and secure.
Dual Carrying Options: The Capture Camera Clip offers two carrying orientations, allowing you to carry your camera lens down or lens up, depending on your preference. This flexibility is a thoughtful feature that accommodates different shooting styles and camera sizes.
Compatibility with Peak Design Straps: The Capture Camera Clip seamlessly integrates with Peak Design’s camera straps, such as the Slide, Slide Lite, and Leash. This compatibility ensures that you can switch between carrying methods effortlessly and tailor your setup to your specific needs.
Seamless Transition: Whether you’re transitioning from capturing action shots to using a tripod or simply need to access your camera quickly, the Capture Camera Clip simplifies these changes. Its quick-release button and compatibility with various Peak Design camera straps make the process smooth and efficient.
Versatility: The Capture Camera Clip is a versatile tool that caters to photographers with different needs. From professional photographers carrying heavy DSLRs to mirrorless camera users, the clip offers a flexible solution that ensures your camera is always at your side, ready to capture those spontaneous moments.
Cons
Now I have it on very good authority from a few photography colleagues, it’s actually a great system. The problem is I don’t trust myself in connection with this clip. I tried it once and thanks to my very unstable hands I almost dropped the camera. I’m sure it’s a great clip if you wear a belt (which I don’t). Getting it on and off my backpack strap was awkward. I just don’t feel confident using it. Perhaps with time? Or it’s just me. I also found it fiddly to get in and out, which probably added to why I almost dropped it.
Peak Design Clutch Camera Hand Strap
Pros
The Clutch Camera Hand Strap is another option for the way photographers handle their cameras. The Clutch strap is designed for those who prefer the handheld shooting experience. Providing a secure grip on your camera without the need for a traditional neck or shoulder strap. It features an adjustable cinch that accommodates a wide range of hand sizes and is compatible with all camera types. The Clutch strap allows you to confidently and comfortably carry your camera for extended periods, providing stability and control even in challenging shooting conditions. With the Clutch hand strap, photographers can enjoy the best of both worlds — the convenience of handheld shooting and the peace of mind that their camera is secure.
Cons
The problem was … I didn’t really like this one either. My hands felt restricted, couldn’t reach all my buttons and such. And frankly, it just didn’t feel secure. You’d need a slide strap as well.
Peak Design Slide Camera Strap
*Please note — I do not have this strap, I was not sent one and have not bought one. I only add it in as it is part of their range. My comments are based on their website and from peer reviews. I cannot comment on its performance from personal experience.
The Slide Camera Strap is one of Peak Design’s flagship products and a favourite among photographers. Designed for comfort and versatility, it can be worn as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap. The unique dual adjusters allow you to quickly switch between these configurations, ensuring that your camera is always at the ready.
What sets the Slide Camera Strap apart is its impressive carrying capacity, which makes it suitable for even the heaviest of camera setups. Whether you’re a professional photographer with a full-frame DSLR or a mirrorless enthusiast with multiple lenses, this strap can handle it all. Its comfortable padding and smooth seatbelt-style webbing make it a pleasure to wear for extended periods.
Conclusion
The Slide Light Camera Strap and the Slide Camera Strap, with their versatile configuration options and impressive carrying capacity, might be great for those who demand the utmost in flexibility. Just because they didn’t work for me, doesn’t mean they won’t be great for you.
If you prefer a minimalist approach, or quick, on-the-go access to your camera. The Cuff Camera Wrist Strap is the ideal choice and my personal preference. I find it comfortable and secure and easy to use. In addition to these primary camera straps, Peak Design offers Anchor Links, which enhance the versatility of your strap system, allowing you to switch between configurations and straps with ease, they really are fabulous.
Whatever your photography style and camera gear, Peak Design’s camera straps have something for everyone. Their commitment to innovation and quality means that you might find the perfect strap to meet your needs. So if you’re in the market for a great camera strap, check out Peak Design.
Our verdict
Peak Design Cuff Camera Wrist Strap & Anchor Links
★★★★★4.5/5
While I received and reviewed several products from Peak Design I must admit I really like the Anchor Links and the Wrist Cuff. They are very well made and durable, the cuff is actually very comfortable and it allows me to feel secure with my camera. Of all their products, this would be my camera strap of choice.