BlackRapid is no stranger to making top-of-the-line and unique camera straps. With each release, you can expect nothing but quality. The BlackRapid Sport Breathe sling became an addition to their Breathe Line back in 2017 but still remains relevant.
The BlackRapid Breathe Line itself is different from other camera straps due to how the elements of the straps that attach the camera. There is a fastener that screws to the camera’s tripod mounting point which is then attached to a small carabiner. This allows the camera to slide freely along the strap.
In this specific camera strap, there is a different material used on the shoulder pads that allows more air flow and makes it feel lighter. Along with that, there are small features that make it different from the rest of the straps. But let’s dive in to see what the BlackRapid Sport Breathe has to offer.
Design
All the straps in the Breathe Line have a similar build to them. It is a shiny black strap that wraps around your body with a black shoulder pad that is cushioned with a mesh-like material. And yes, it only comes in one color: black. If you want something bold and that makes a statement, this is not the one for you. This strap has a tactical, utility look to it. The only color on it is the white branding which stands out.
Material
The metal carabiner and the removable underarm strap hook are metal while the buckle parts are plastic. But have no worries, the plastic is sturdy so you won’t need to be concerned about it breaking.
Features and In Use
One of the main features that makes this strap popular is the way the camera slides across the strap. BlackRapid built an easy access feature on the front strap that makes your camera easily glide to your side when not in use. The design consists of two cam locks that are placed on the sides where the camera connects on the cam locks.
The purpose of these locks is to stop the camera from sliding anywhere beyond it. And the best part is the fact that these cam locks can be easily placed anywhere on the strap. This allows you to place the camera anywhere it feels most comfortable along your body. You can also lock your camera in one place so it won’t swing so much when you are not shooting.
As for the carabiner and fastener system, you can expect great things from both. The fastener screws to the tripod mounting hole on the camera or telephoto lens. The carabiner clips to the loops on the fastener. To secure the clips you need to twist lock and place the flat cover which prevents the twist lock from accidentally coming unscrewed.
BlackRapid Sport Breathe In Use
Even though the BlackRapid Sport Breathe is a single strap, it still distributes weight evenly throughout the shoulders. The resting position is also quite comfortable, more comfortable than many of its competitors.
One of the best things about the strap is the lack of sweat marks it leaves. With the mesh-like material on the inside, there is a constant flow of air which makes it breathable. Even in warm temperatures and humidity, there won’t be large sweat marks or discomfort.
How Does the BlackRapid Sport Breathe Compare?
| Blackrapid Sport Breathe Camera Strap | Tamrac N25 Neoprene QuickRelease Camera Strap |
| The carabiner locks tend to be difficult to unlock | The buckles definitely have a quick release but can potential scratch the camera’s LCD |
| Has adjustable straps | Can be short depending on your height |
| Camera hangs down naturally when not in use – you can even customize where you want it to hang along your body | The camera will stick out instead of laying against your body |
| Can’t necessarily be put across your body so it must be used as a neck strap – again, depending on your size |
Conclusion
BlackRapid Sport Breathe straps start selling for about $82 which can be on the pricier side for some. If you intend on using the straps a lot then it will justify the price. But you do get what you pay for and as mentioned, BlackRapid does not make mediocre straps. You can depend on the Sport Breathe strap to work great and also relieve a lot of pain in parts of your body that other straps usually cause.
Also if you are left-handed, there is a left-handed option for you! Talk about being inclusive.