If you’re diving into the accelerating trend of crossbody straps and other mobile accessories, Peak Design might deserve your attention. The company responsible for some of the best photography straps and gear has expanded its mobile line, and these Peak Design phone straps might make me a believer in the form factor.
Mobile straps are gaining traction, and there are a lot of companies that have begun developing various versions. It makes sense if you’re low on pocket space and need quick access to your phone, or if you rely on your Android or iOS device for photos more than anything else.
Peak Design recently released three different straps built around one unassuming little piece of hardware: a new latching system. That one design element sets it apart from every other company making phone straps. The lifestyle company gained a lot of its attention from its camera anchors, but those are larger and meant for bigger loads.
The new system depends on something it calls the “micro anchor.” It’s a small, pill-shaped piece of plastic with a tiny corded loop that attaches to your phone or small camera. The pill fits into the strap’s proprietary mounts, secured by a spring-loaded ball bearing. Peak Design says it’s rated for 50lbs of force.
All of Peak Design’s new straps use the new latching system. That goes for the Crossbody Multi-Strap, Crossbody Strap, and Mobile Cuff. And they aren’t limited to the company’s cases in any way.
I’ve had a chance to use all three for a little bit, and even though I’m not a huge fan of the premise, I have to say that Peak Design knocked it out of the park. The material used for the strap itself is the same corded fabric as the company’s stronger camera Cuff Rope. The company says it’s custom-made, and having used other rope straps, these stand out as a much more skin-friendly version.
On top of that, the hardware used is classicly Peak Design. It’s utilitarian, but refined in look and feel. To secure the wrist cuff and crossbody ropes, a small anodized metal bead provides a friction point to prevent the ropes from getting too tight. On the Crossbody Multi-Strap, a clip allows for several secured micro anchors – released by pushing a satisfying little slider.
That’s where the difference lies in the two crossbody versions. The mult-strap can handle several items, like earbuds, a phone, and literally anything else you can attach the micro anchor to. As for the regular crossbody strap, the two anchor points attach to a single item. Again, that can be a phone or a small camera. For anything like a full-frame body, go for the sturdier straps.
My only gripe is that the buckle solution on both crossbody straps is plastic, while it’s aluminum on the wrist cuff. Not a big deal, but the feel would be better with some of that classic quality touch we’re used to in the company’s custom hardware.
Overall, though, these straps are a classy but purpose-built solution for those who want a crossbody strap. I may not use these all the time, but I can see scenarios where I would, like mobile photography, where I just don’t want to take chances.
The new straps follow similar pricing for the company’s camera-oriented options. The Crossbody Multi-Strap is the most expensive at $59.95, while the single-device Crossbody Strap sits at $49.95. The Mobile Cuff, however, is the best buy at $29.95.
Are they worth it? Yeah, I think so. Considering how comfortable these options are versus others from established case-makers, they fit the bill well. On top of that, they’re entirely versatile.
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