have just received my shoulder pad for my tripod for carrying heavy gear. Looks great but the straps will not go around my tripod and I will have to try to lengthen them somehow.

I bought the Pod Pad to use on my Gitzo 3540LS tripod with Wimberley Version II head and LensCoat tripod leg wraps The leg straps fit with a little room to spare (even with the leg pads) and the tripod legs close fully for carrying. However, the strap that goes around the tripod head was a very bad fit. The 3540LS has no center column so the Wimberely head sets right on a flat plate. With the strap attached around the base of the Wimberley, it would not pan as freely as I'm used to having it move. The problem was resolved by installing the NatureScapes RB-100 Riser Block between the Wimberley and the flat plate which now allows the Pod Pad head strap to be wrapped around the Riser Block rather than the base of the Wimberley. This, in turn, allows the head to pan cleanly. I would recommend the Riser Block to anyone who has a tripod with no center column. Were it not for this, I would have given the Pod Pad 5 stars.

Advantages: Makes carrying a tripod with heavy lens much easier and more comfortable than with just triod leg pads.

Disadvantages: None.

It is a foam pad with velcro straps which are too short. If you have a heavy tripod (why you would want a pad) and leg foam (who doesn't), the pad will not fit without extentions to straps. Not a difficult fix but what were they thinking when they designed this? Add 3-4 " to straps and it would work. If you do not need the extra length, cut it off.

Advantages: It is a pad...

Disadvantages: Will not attach to large tripods as is.

Thank you all for your feedback. We are taking in all your concerns & comments to make the next generation Pod-Pad. Keep your eyes peeled!!

Travis Peltz
Essential Photo Gear

I found the same problem as Tom Oliver. I use a Gitzo GT5541S and a Wimberley WH-200 to support my 600mm. The Pod Pad seemed too small for the tripod, and besides that it didn't attach properly on the Wimberley. I e-mailed EP Gear, manufacturer of the Pod Pad, for installation information, and after two weeks hadn't gotten an answer (it doesn't come with install instructions).

Advantages: Seemed well-made, but not appropriate to a Wimberley head.

Disadvantages: Description didn't adequately represent the Pod Pad. The device appeared to meet my need for a more comfortable carry for the 600mm/Wimberley/big tripod, but it didn't fit and didn't work. NatureScapes--please get more info from EP Gear and work it into the description.