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View Full Version : A Solid Camera Strap Replacement: The Skooba Superbungee


Jason Dunn
12-27-2008, 03:00 PM
<p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1230072188.usr1.jpg" style="border: 0;" /></p><p>In the same way that replacing the headphones that came with your MP3 player is a great way to upgrade your overall experience, the same holds true for DSLRs and straps. It doesn't matter how expensive your camera is, they tend to come with straps that, while functional, tend to lack in both style and comfort. The <a href="http://www.skoobadesign.com/product/skooba-superbungee-camera-binocular-strap-39/" target="_blank">Skooba Superbungee</a> ($19.95 MSRP) is a camera strap upgrade that improves your shooting experience in a big way because it helps keep the camera in place on your shoulder, unlike most default camera straps. It's available in a variety of colours, including black/red, black/black (pictured above), black/gray, black/blue, and black/pink. The strap is adjustable from 21 inches to 45 inches, and although you might think otherwise looking at the photo above, the SKOOBA logo on the black/black strap is virtually invisible - which is exactly the way I want it.<MORE /></p><p>I found the installation of the strap onto my Nikon D300 to be fast and easy - I encountered no issues getting my old strap off and this new one on. What makes the strap work so well are the combination of the <a href="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1230072711.usr1.jpg" target="_blank">squares of air on the underside of the strap</a> and the bungee-cord material they use on the front of the strap. The patented Air Square system helps alleviate pressure from the camera on your shoulder or neck, and the bungee cables on the front help absorb shock from motion. While I haven't sprinted with this strap holding my Nikon D300 around my neck, I've used it extensively and it helps reduce the wear and tear of a heavy camera/lens combo on your body. My D300 with the 24-70 f/2.8 lens is a weighty block of gear to carry, and the Skooba Superbungee has proven itself capable of keeping it from sliding off my shoulder, and reducing the shoulder and neck strain that's typical of carrying such equipment over long periods of time. I reccomend this product highly.</p><p><em>Jason Dunn owns and operates <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/" target="_blank">Thoughts Media Inc.</a>, a company dedicated to creating the best in online communities. He enjoys <a href="http://photos.jasondunn.com/" target="_blank">photography</a>, mobile devices, <a href="http://www.jasondunn.com/" target="_blank">blogging</a>, digital media content creation/editing, and pretty much all technology. He lives in Calgary, Alberta, Canada with his lovely wife, and his sometimes obedient dog. He hopes winter ends soon, this is getting ridiculous!</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p><p><strong>Do you enjoy using new hardware, software and accessories, then sharing your experience with others? Then join us on the <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Thoughts Media Review Team</a>! We're looking for individuals who find it fun to test new gear and give their honest opinions about the experience. It's a volunteer role with some great perks. Interested? <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Then click here for more information.</a></strong></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p>

Neil Enns
12-27-2008, 04:05 PM
My current camera strap is a Black Rapid R strap (http://www.blackrapid.com/). Comfy and I love being able to swing the camera up to take a shot. Having it resting lightly against my lower back is the perfect place to carry the camera too, especially when I'm lugging around 6lbs on my shoulder.

Neil

Jason Dunn
12-27-2008, 08:11 PM
My current camera strap is a Black Rapid R strap (http://www.blackrapid.com/).

That company/strap is on my list of things to check out...it looked quite nicely designed. So you like it then? Good to know. :)

Neil Enns
12-27-2008, 08:18 PM
I do. My only quibble with my R2 is that the flap doesn't line up quite right with the velcro. But it's discontinued now replaced with a better version anyway :)

I can carry my 1n with battery grip and the 70-200 lens on it and it's like it isn't there.

Neil

Lee Yuan Sheng
12-28-2008, 01:53 AM
This looks interesting, though I prefer the system Optech uses. The quick release is handy when removing the strap when you don't need it, and also for attaching the camera to say, my backpack/harness straps.

I just checked out the link; they make one version for bags! Definitely going to check it out some time!