Vault Loc: Gig Harbor, WA and Yuma, AZ

I have used the original "Nikon" straps that came with my cameras, D40, D3500, D7100 and D600, purchased in that order. Since each one has gotten larger and heavier, including the corresponding lenses, I find my neck starts to really ache after shooting for a couple of hours. I tried going without a strap but get paranoid of dropping and damage. My last purchase of a 80-200 2.8 AF-D New to go on the D600, or even the D7100 convinced me I need to come up with alternative. I do use a tripod alot but love to hike into areas for that special look. Would like to hear opinions about shoulder straps or hand straps. I do use a quality back pack but would love to be camera ready to get that perfect shot of the bear that runs me down. Thank you.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I proudly use my Canon-branded camera strap. I've adjusted the length to perfectly wrap around my right wrist, not too tight, not too loose, with a few loops. I can go hours holding the camera by the camera grip, but with no fear of dropping the camera as letting loose of the grip causes the camera to drop just a few inched where the strap tightens on my wrist. This is how I can free my right hand for other uses.

But, for your need for hiking, look at a sport sling such as a Black Rapid Sport that screws into the tripod mount on the bottom of the camera and hangs the camera at your waist.

SteveInConverse Loc: South Texas

Cotton Carrier Skout or one of their other products. Top notch quality and they carry heavy loads quite easily and in comfort.

clemente21

My original straps stay new inside the camera box. Never felt the urge to tell the world what I am shooting with. That said, I find the Optech brand a good value. Seldomly use a strap around my neck. Usually wrap it around my hand or over my shoulder. When using a long lens (mainly for sports) I use the Optech crossbody sling style. Good if you are not moving a lot. But yes, always have something to prevent that nice lens to hit the floor.

https://www.amazon.com/OP-TECH-USA-Utility-Strap-Sling/dp/B003T0EYVE/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JGQQVOKN9U3G&keywords=optech+Crossbody+Sling&qid=1676950862&s=electronics&sprefix=optech+crossbody+sling+%2Celectronics%2C107&sr=1-1

Sidwalkastronomy Loc: New Jersey Shore

I have there vest and side pack for a second camera. I carry my Canon 77D with Tamron 150-600 with very little effort. There is extra strap that holds things tight for hiking. With a little practice you can disengaged camera and shoot away

AHK Loc: Lakewood Ranch, Fl.

Great Idea...never thought of around wrist.

stanikon Loc: Deep in the Heart of Texas

I have been using the Black Rapid for several years (currently with my D500) and recommend it highly. There are several models available so you can pick the one that best fits you and your needs.

What I like about it is that it keeps your camera handy and instantly ready while your hands are completely free. Getting the camera to shooting position is quick and effortless.

The chief downsides are (1) the screw that attaches to the tripod mounting hole can and may come loose. I have developed a habit of checking it for tightness quite often so that has never been a problem for me. (2) Some people don't like the camera to be hanging freely at their side. That doesn't bother me but it is a deal-killer for some folks.

luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

I use the Optech straps but the around the neck not the side sling. I like the length that I can adjust it to. I have also added a Peak Design clip to my backpack strap to have the camera close at hand but not bouncing against my body and also to have a place for a second camera if I'm using 2 cameras. I have tested the clip around the neighborhood but haven't gone any real distance with it yet but I find it holds the camera very well. I just need to get used to unclipping it.

Dodie

larryepage Loc: North Texas area

I used OpTech straps for years when I was shooting Olympus film cameras. Their big advantages were really nice cushioning and excellent friction against clothing of almost any fabric. I stopped because I felt that they were not quite long enough to be as comfortable and usable as I would really like.

Recently, I've been using the straps that came with my various Nikons as neck and shoulder straps, but if I could find slightly longer OpTech straps, I would probably switch. I've not worn a camera on a shoulder for several years, because I've walked with a cane in my left hand for several years. It does not coexist with a camera on that side very well. But I had knee replacement surgery in November and no longer use the cane, so I'll likely be looking to switxh back.

Interestingly enough, I watched a segment on TV tonight about legendary photographer Earlie Hudnall Jr. He carries one of his cameras everywhere he goes, cradled in the crook of his right arm. The strap that came with his Nikon swings freely below his arm. He is 77, and in the story was carrying a full-frame DSLR with a Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 VR lens. (If you don't know who he is, I suggest that you Google his name and learn a little bit about him.)

Strodav Loc: Houston, Tx

Peak Design. I really like their anchors. The anchors easily click into the strap and they are easy to remove with a little pressure at the anchor.

mwsilvers Loc: Central New Jersey

The Peak Design Slide or Slide Light straps would probably meet your needs. They are very popular and highly recommended.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

I use both of these straps, the Slide on my Z9, especially with the long lens, and the Slide Lite with my Z7 and Olympus OM-1. The main thing is a rarely hang them straight down from my neck. Go cross body. Not only does it take a lot of strain off my neck but it keeps the camera from bouncing around when I’m hiking.

FrancisOak Loc: Manchester, UK

Peak Design capture Clip V3 perfect for hiking.

Tjohn Loc: Inverness, FL formerly Arivaca, AZ

There are plenty of makes and models available but consider the material. Cotton is cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Plastic and leather are usually heavier, hotter in summer and stiffer in winter.

Real Nikon Lover Loc: Simi Valley, CA

I agree. However, I do put it around my neck. I've used the Optech brand on 5 Nikon bodies and never had an issue. The spongy, springy, wetsuit-like material cushions the weight and minimizes jarring. I have battled a herniated disk in neck for 3 decades and without the Optech I wouldn't be carrying a camera around from my neck. I say that in earnest. I have shot 12 hour weddings and hiked some serious terrain and come home exhausted without neck pain. As they say... no guarantees but I wont give mine up. I have several other camera carrying pieces but my camera bodies all have Optechs attached.