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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Strap Eases The Load

Michael Hodgson Special To Outdoors

Product: S.O.S. Strap

Description: A specialized carrying strap for camera bags, field bags, brief cases, travel luggage, etc.

Pro: Using a soft and durable neoprene, combined with an internal controlled-stretch system, loads practically disappear on your shoulders. Why? Because as you walk, the bounce of the bag gets absorbed by the padded strap which in turn lessens the fatigue and potential bruising your shoulders might otherwise experience. The speed clips attach easily to any bag. Well made and quite durable.

Con: While I love the plastic clips because they are light and easy to use, they are also a bit more fragile and in the world of slamming doors, hurling luggage, tossing briefcases and the like, are more susceptible to damage than their heavier metal cousins. I’ll offer you a little tip you can apply to any strap, but it is particularly applicable with this one. When shortening the length by feeding the extra strap through the slider, you will end up with several inches of flapping and annoying strap. Reverse the feed and you will solve the problem.

Comments: Unbelievable! OP/ TECH’s advertising claims that this strap will make loads feel 50 percent lighter. While I cannot attest to the exact percentage difference in weight perception I can state that the weight of both the heavy camera bag and briefcase I was schlepping a few weekends ago disappeared from my mind when I used the S.O.S. Strap.

Suggested Retail: $24.95

Company: OP/Tech USA, 304 Andrea Drive, Belgrade, MT 59714; 800 251-7815