The 10 Best Binocular Straps
Editor's Notes
June 10, 2020:
Removed the BlackRapid Strap, the Nikon 6122 Prostaff Camo, the Active Seasons, and the Think Ergo Harness because of availability issues. Added the Bushnell Deluxe, the Vortex Glasspak, the North Mountain Gear Harness, and the Nikon 6121 Prostaff.
My go-to pair of binoculars for hunting are the Vortex Diamondbacks which come with a strap almost identical to the BlackRapid Breathe. They work fine for short trips but they do allow for a lot of unwanted movement and extra noise when you're on the move. Worst of all, most hunting trips last many hours so about 4 or 5 hours in, neck-style straps start hurting your neck. Most decent binoculars that I have used have some weight to them so this is usually bound to be the case.
I saw a significant improvement when I upgraded to the Vortex Optics Harness and yet another when I upgraded to the Vortex Glasspak. The standard Vortex Harness, like most other harnesses, shift the load of binoculars to your shoulders and back, which eliminates the discomfort on your neck. They also keep your binoculars secure to your chest where they won't get in the way as much. The strap material is also quite elastic so you can bring your binoculars up to eye level without too much resistance that would otherwise cause shakiness when viewing. The Glasspak is even better than the standard harness since it comes with a pouch for your binoculars and some convenient storage where you can keep small tools or hunting calls.
Note that many of these straps will work with your favorite camera if they have mounting holes where you can sneak the strap loops.
Why You Should Invest In New Binocular Straps
If you have to rummage through your backpack to find your binoculars, there's a good chance you'll miss catching a glimpse of that rare bird species.
Binoculars are powerful devices that can come in handy for a wide range of activities. And, they're even more useful when paired with the right straps. There are lots of reasons to purchase a new set of straps for your binoculars. Here are a few of the main motivations for making this particular purchase.
First, straps allow you to move around more freely. They keep your binoculars secured to your body so you can use your hands for other things, like handling supplies or taking notes. With straps, you don't have to constantly feel for your binoculars to make sure they're still on your person. You can rest easy knowing that those binoculars aren't going anywhere.
Binocular straps protect the investment you made in the binoculars themselves. Quality tools can cost a pretty penny, so additional security in the form of straps is a must. You don't want to risk dropping your binoculars and destroying them, which is more likely to happen than you think, especially if you tend to bring them along on outdoor adventures. A big part of keeping binoculars in top condition is taking simple, preventative steps to reduce the likelihood of any accidents.
Another reason you'll want to pick up some new straps is the comfort factor. Most straps are designed to make toting binoculars a pleasant experience. Attaching your instrument to a lanyard won't keep it from swinging around and bumping into you as you move, which can be as distracting as it is uncomfortable. Straps make it so that you can focus on your interests, rather than how you'll manage to carry all of your tools to your destination.
Many of the activities that necessitate the use of binoculars are time-sensitive, such as birdwatching or surveillance. If you have to rummage through your backpack to find your binoculars, there's a good chance you'll miss catching a glimpse of that rare bird species. For the sake of saving time, make sure your binoculars are fastened to reliable straps.
Features To Look For In Binocular Straps
There are quite a few binocular straps on the market, which can make finding the right option for your needs a challenge. As long as you keep these features in mind as you shop, you'll be able to locate the perfect product in no time.
There are several different types of straps out there, so it's important to think about which design will best suit your lifestyle. The most common variety goes around the upper body, with straps for each arm, for maximum security. If your excursions entail lots of physical movement, this kind of product is the way to go. For less intense trips, straps that simply hang around the neck are ideal.
Straps may come with attached carabiners, buckles, or other mechanisms for fastening the binoculars.
You'll notice binocular straps are made from several materials. There are plenty of models constructed from sturdy nylon, which stands up well to wear and is not likely to rip under strain. Leather straps are a good choice for those who appreciate a combination of durability and style.
Hardware is something to review, as well. Straps may come with attached carabiners, buckles, or other mechanisms for fastening the binoculars. Don't forget to check this detail if you have a preferred mechanism for connecting your supplies.
Straps are available in an array of colors and patterns. For a rugged look, there are brown, black, and beige options that will complement virtually any outfit. If you're an outdoorsy person, you will appreciate that many straps are printed with camouflage to help you blend in when you're out in nature. Brightly colored straps exist, too, for those who like to make a fashion statement wherever they go.
Be sure to read the specifications of the product you're interested in to verify it will fit your particular pair of binoculars. Even though most straps are one-size-fits-all, some are crafted to accommodate larger binocular models only. Similarly, assess the product details to ensure it will fit your frame. If you have any doubts about the fit, opt for straps that are adjustable. This tip is vital to remember when shopping for straps that wrap around the entire upper body.
Who Needs Binoculars?
Binoculars have been around since the 1600s — the century that saw the invention of the telescope. Since then, the device's applications have grown to include many fields of study and an incredible number of hobbies.
As mentioned above, birdwatching is one of the main activities associated with the use of binoculars. Nature, after all, is unpredictable, so you have to be able to see over great distances if your goal is to spot as many unique species as possible.
Often, hunters spend hours in the same location in order to avoid making noise that would alert prey to their presence.
Binoculars go hand in hand with the sport of hunting. When you're out in the field waiting, it's crucial to move silently. Often, hunters spend hours in the same location in order to avoid making noise that would alert prey to their presence. Binoculars make it possible to observe an area from a distance.
Engineers can take advantage of binoculars for surveying land and development sites. Binoculars enable professionals to analyze large swaths of land more efficiently. Those in the military are able to make use of binoculars for activities like reconnaissance. Even in battle, these optical tools are indispensable.
Amateur scientists can put binoculars to use, as well. If you're interested in astronomy, try aiming your binoculars toward the sky. Meteor showers and other celestial events are much easier to see with their help. Nature enthusiasts can employ binoculars to observe butterflies, plants and flowers, and all kinds of animals.
As you can see, binoculars are advantageous to have on hand in tons of diverse situations. Whether you're a scientist by trade or simply a hobbyist, you can definitely benefit from using a quality pair of binoculars. Binocular straps are all that you need to keep your optical tool safe and secure wherever you go.