Quick answer
If you carry a DSLR or a heavier mirrorless kit and want all-day comfort, choose the Peak Design Slide V3. If you prioritize a compact, pocketable strap for lighter cameras or minimal packing, the Leash v2 is the better fit.
Comfort vs. portability: the core trade-off
The Slide V3 and Leash v2 both come from Peak Design's strap lineup, but they solve different problems. The Slide V3 is the flagship, built with internally-padded nylon webbing that provides cushioning for heavier gear. The Leash v2, by contrast, is designed for gear minimalists, shedding bulky padding and hardware to fit in a pocket or camera bag.
That difference drives every other decision. If you regularly shoot with a full-frame DSLR or a large telephoto lens, the extra padding of the Slide V3 will prevent the strap from digging into your shoulder. If you carry a compact mirrorless camera or a rangefinder, the Leash v2's slim profile keeps the strap unobtrusive and easy to stow.
Neither strap is universally 'better'—they are optimized for different camera weights and carrying styles. Consider your typical kit and how long you usually have the camera around your neck or shoulder.
Configurability and quick-release functionality
Both straps share Peak Design's quick-connecting Anchor Link system, so attaching and detaching the strap from your camera is fast and tool-free. That means you can switch between a strap and a capture clip or other mounting solution in seconds.
The Slide V3 can be worn as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap, giving you flexibility for different shooting situations. The Leash v2 also supports these configurations, but its thinner webbing makes it less comfortable for prolonged neck use with heavier cameras.
If you often switch between carrying styles, the Slide V3's wider, padded webbing gives you more comfort across all modes. If you rarely use a neck strap and prefer a minimalist sling, the Leash v2's lighter weight is an advantage.
Which strap should you choose?
- If you shoot with a DSLR or heavy mirrorless kit: Choose the Slide V3. The internal padding provides cushioning for all-day comfort, and the grippy side prevents slipping when worn over the shoulder. The Slide V3 is the safer choice for heavier gear.
- If you value portability and minimalism: Choose the Leash v2. It fits in a pocket or bag, making it ideal for travel or as a lightweight everyday strap on a compact camera. The Leash v2 is the better travel companion.
- If you switch between carrying styles often: The Slide V3's padded webbing offers more comfort in sling, neck, or shoulder mode. The Leash v2 is less comfortable for extended neck use with heavier cameras. Comfort in all modes favors the Slide V3.
Strap specs at a glance
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Peak Design Slide V3 Camera Strap: Internally-padded nylon webbing with a smooth side that glides over clothing in sling mode and a grippy side that prevents slipping. The dual-sided design lets you switch between a gliding sling and a grippy shoulder carry without changing straps.
Peak Design Slide V3 Camera Strap
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Peak Design Leash v2 Camera Sling Strap: Designed for gear minimalists, Leash fits in any pocket or camera bag, with no chunky shoulder pads or bulky hardware. Its compact size makes it easy to pack as a backup strap or use on a smaller camera without adding weight.
Peak Design Leash v2 Camera Sling Strap
Who each strap fits best
Best for
- Photographers with DSLRs or heavy mirrorless bodies who need all-day padding
- Those who want a versatile strap that works well as a sling, neck, or shoulder strap
Not for
- Gear minimalists who want a strap that disappears into a pocket
- Users of ultra-compact cameras who prefer a lighter, less bulky strap
