When you see a beautiful photograph, it is easy to assume the photographer is standing there admiring the scene. You forget they have probably been out potentially for hours with a heavy camera, just waiting for that perfect image to appear before them.

The Cotton Carrier Skout claims to be the worlds most comfortable, secure and accessible sling-style camera harness by holding your camera close to you body in a sturdy fashion. After travelling for three weeks with a digital SLR slung around my neck, I know first-hand the pain and discomfort carrying a camera all day can cause. The key element of the Skout is that nothing moves around, it simply hugs your core ready to be released in a discrete and quiet fashion when you see something worth snapping. The Skout has a fixed-position carrying system and uses a patented Twist & Lock mount to secure the camera to your chest. The harness distributes the weight evenly across your body, alleviating pressure points whilst also ensuring your gear is accessible.

The harness is an adjustable one-size-fits-all system made from Kodra Synthetic canvas with DWR coating. The hub is C&C machined, anodized aluminium and securely attaches the camera to the harness. The hub can be adjusted to avoid blocking the battery door, whilst the threaded hole allows you to attach it to your tripod without having to remove it. There is a backup safety tether to prevent any accidental (and very expensive) slip ups, whilst the included G3 weather cover protects your gear from dust and water with 10 inches of clearance inside. Other features include the slim profile that allows you to easily stow it away when not in use and you can easily wear back packs and jackets over the top of it. It is available in either Realtree Xtra Camo or Charcoal Grey.

We were very impressed with the Skout: it is quick and easy to put on, lightweight, there is a zip-up pocket for small accessories and most importantly it is comfortable. The only issue we came across was the lack of integrated ventilation, meaning things get a little sweaty on the back and around the strap. However, that is a price we are willing to pay for the security, support, comfort and accessibility it supplies. RRP $79

4.9 out of 5

Current Cheapest Price

Pros

Premium construction

Even weight distribution

Comfortable

Easy to put on a adjust

Slim profile

Thick padding

Secure attachment point

Stable

 

Cons

Lacks ventilation