CHI Levo Shoulder Camera Straps

INTRODUCTION

As Travel Photographers with 40 years of experience in the photographic industry, we have used a multitude of camera straps, but for many years now, we have used the Peak Design Slide and Slide Lite straps.

The humble camera strap is probably one of the most overlooked accessories by many photographers. Often, when travelling or even at home, we see photographers supporting their heavy gear with cheap camera straps. In many cases, it’s the poor-quality straps supplied when buying a camera body. We used Nikon cameras for over 20 years. The strap that comes with the camera body was terrible, and even the Sony mirrorless camera, which costs a small fortune, is supplied with an average strap. We have made it a point when teaching photographers to toss these straps in the bin and invest in a good-quality camera strap that’s both comfortable and will last a lifetime, preferably a sling strap worn over a shoulder and across the body rather than around the neck.

Recently, we reviewed the Chi L.D. Meter, a coldshoe lightmeter with a laser rangefinder for film photographers, which we now use with our vintage film cameras and the Chi Levo Camera Wrist Strap, a fantastic wrist strap for street photographers. Both products have been impressive.

Chi was kind enough to send us more products for review. One of these is the Chi Levo Camera Strap. A seemingly high-quality camera strap at a reasonable price. Although we were sent this product free of charge, we were not paid for this review, and all opinions expressed are our own. However, if you use the links in this post and purchase an item, we may receive a small commission. We hope this review will help you in your quest to find a high-quality and affordable camera strap.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

There are 3 versions of the Chi Levo Camera Strap – Air, Pro, and Ultra. We were sent the Ultra.

AIR – This is the basic model and, in many ways, it is similar to our Peak Design Lite camera strap. The width of this model is the narrowest at 0.75″ (1.9cm). It does not seem to have as much padding or grip as the Pro and Ultra straps; however, it is made with the same material (Alcantara*) and adjusts to the same lengths as its big brothers (29-61″). 

PRO – This model has a width of 1.26″ (3.2cm), however, this width ONLY applies to the shoulder pad. The remainder of the strap is just 0.75″ (1.9cm) wide. This strap has a non-slip silicon shoulder pad for better grip. It is made with the same material (Alcantara*) and is adjustable between 29-61″ in length.

ULTRA – The Ultra is the Deluxe model of all the Chi camera straps. It has a width of 1.77″ (4.5cm); however, this width ONLY applies to the shoulder pad. The remainder of the strap, like the other two versions, is just 0.75″ (1.9cm) wide. This strap has an extremely well-padded shoulder pad for the ultimate grip. It is made with the same material (Alcantara*) and is adjustable between 29-61″ in length.

*Alcantara – a synthetic, suede-like microfiber fabric used as a durable and lightweight alternative to leather. 

Once you have opened the box, there will be three pieces: the shoulder pad and two sections of strap. These can be easily connected to the shoulder pads by following the enclosed instructions, but it’s pretty simple. Should you want to dismantle the strap at any stage, merely press the recessed button on the aluminium buckle and slide apart. This can be a bit fiddly, and if you don’t have any fingernails, it could be a problem. Aside from using the Detachable Modular Clips* or to make it easier to pack the strap in your camera bag, we see no reason to dismantle the strap at all. Also included are two Magnetic Coda Connectors, which are identical to those used on the Chi Levo Camera Wrist Strap.

*Detachable Modular Clips – these attach to the shoulder straps of your backpack bag, allowing you to use the strap without the shoulder pad section. Only the AIR model is designed for use with a backpack, as it can slide freely. The PRO & ULTRA cannot easily be used under a backpack due to the shoulder pads and grips. These are an optional extra when purchasing the strap on the Chi website.

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THE STRAP

As mentioned, there are three versions of the stap – the Air, Pro, and Ultra. We were sent the Ultra. Here are some of the key benefits of the Ultra strap.

Key Features & Technology

• BNS Quick Adjustable Design – the strap utilises an anodised aluminium buckle mechanism for instant, one-handed length adjustment (29–61 inches). This allows photographers to adjust the strap rapidly from a tight cross-body carry to a ready-to-shoot length.
• Magnetic Coda Connector – the strap attaches to the camera via a super-tough nylon cord and a magnetic quick-release connector. The magnetic connector allows speedy installation and removal of the strap. The magnetic closure provides initial alignment, while a mechanical limit ensures security (Rated up to 210 lbs/90 kg).
• Alcantara Surface Layer – the shoulder pad is surfaced with Alcantara, a luxurious, suede-like, microfiber fabric known for its skin-friendly softness, water resistance, and high durability. It is a key selling point for all-day comfort.
• Ultra-Wide Shoulder Pad – the Ultra version of the strap features a wider shoulder pad combined with multi-layer composite materials, designed to effectively distribute the weight of heavier DSLRs and professional camera setups, helping to prevent neck and shoulder pain.
• Modular Disassembly – the shoulder straps are designed with clips (optional extra) that allow them to be attached directly to a compatible backpack’s shoulder straps. This will provide the versatility for hybrid shooting/hiking, where you need to secure the camera to a backpack for long treks without removing the strap entirely.

POSITIVES (+)

• Exceptional Comfort (Alcantara): This is where the Levo truly shines. The use of Alcantara and the wide, multi-layer padding results in a strap that feels soft against the skin and drastically reduces the perceived weight of a camera over a long day of shooting.
• Length – the fully adjustable straps will adjust from 29-61″, making it suitable for every photographer
• Secure Quick-Release: The Coda Connector, with its magnetic assist and mechanical lock, offers a smooth and secure alternative to traditional clip systems. It’s fast to use one-handed, making it excellent for switching between handheld, tripod, and backpack modes.
• Rapid Adjustment: The BNS adjuster is highly responsive. Unlike some other straps that can get sticky, the Levo’s metal mechanism allows for quick, reliable cinching and lengthening.
• Build Quality & Strength: With a strength rating of up to 210 lbs, the strap is clearly built for professional and heavy-duty gear, offering peace of mind even with a large DSLR and a 70-200mm lens.
• Lifetime Warranty – This is a little bit confusing on their site, it states  – “We provide lifetime warranty service for the products. Please read the instruction manual carefully for correct use and safe storage. We do not take responsibility for personal injury or damage to the product if these instructions have not been adhered to. The warranty period of products is 24 months in accordance with EU regulations, 6 months in accordance with US regulations, 12 months in accordance with China regulations.” So we are not sure if there is a lifetime warranty or for the periods mentioned above.🤔 We will try to clarify with the company.

NEGATIVES (-)

We are impressed with the Chi Levo Camera Strap – Ultra, but no product is perfect for everyone, so here are some negatives, which may or may not be negatives for everyone.

• Bulk: To achieve the high level of comfort and strength, the shoulder pad and the metal adjustment buckles are substantial. This strap is not designed for ultra-minimalist shooters or those who prioritise folding the strap into a small space. If space is a premium in your camera bag, this model may be too bulky. Instead, you may want to consider the Air or Pro versions. having said that, once the strap is rolled up it doesnt take up any more space than our Peak Design Slide Camera Strap but slightly more than our Peak Design Slide Lite strap.
• Price Point: Due to the premium materials (Alcantara, aerospace-grade aluminium hardware), the Levo is positioned at the higher end of the camera strap market.
• Limited Ecosystem: Compared to market leaders, the full range of accessories (clips, plates, and anchor mounts) might not be as widespread or universally compatible.

THE FINAL WORD

The CHI Levo Shoulder Strap – Ultra is an excellent choice for the photographer who:

1. Prioritises all-day comfort with a heavy setup (DSLR or pro mirrorless).
2. Values premium materials and a luxurious feel (Alcantara).
3. Requires a fast, secure, quick-release system for frequent changes between carrying styles or tripod use.

It successfully challenges established brands by focusing on a superior comfort profile and an innovative magnetic quick-release, making it a highly compelling premium alternative.

Would we use it? Well, we love our Peak Design Slide camera straps and they have worked seamlessly for us for many years. However, we really do like the Chi Levo Camera Strap – Ultra and would use it in a heartbeat if not for our current straps. It has the added benefits of the magnetic coda connectors, which make it that little bit faster to connect and disconnect the camera, plus the bonus of being able to detach the shoulder pad and use the strap attached to a backpack shoulder pad. These are very attractive options for photographers.

If you have any questions about this product, feel free to leave a comment below.

RATED: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

PRICE

Click the BUY HERE button below or the banner above to purchase directly from Chinotechs (CHI). Alternatively, you can also purchase on Amazon.

Shipping

For USA orders less than USD$148.00, the Standard Shipping is USD$5.00 or USD$10.00 for Express Shipping.

For USA orders greater than USD$148.00, the shipping is FREE and is Express.

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