I’ve actually ditched the thigh straps for most jobs, even on green roofs. They’re just too fussy if you’re up and down ladders a lot. I stick to a shorter loop or use a carabiner—less snagging, less hassle. Maybe it’s just what I’m used to, but I’d rather have speed than extra straps flapping around.
Funny you mention ditching the thigh straps—I tried that for a while, but I kept catching the hammer loop on gutter brackets and it drove me nuts. On steep roofs, I’ve actually started using the loop for my moisture meter instead of my hammer, just because it’s quicker to grab when I’m checking attic vents or soffits. Anyone else use theirs for random tools? Sometimes I wonder if these loops were even designed with real-world use in mind...
I’ve actually wondered the same thing about those loops—sometimes they just seem like an afterthought. I tried hanging my chalk line there for a bit, but it kept swinging around and smacking my leg, which got old fast. On days when I’m doing more flashing than shingling, I’ll stick my snips in there, but honestly, it’s hit or miss. Does anyone else find the loop gets in the way more than it helps, or am I just not using it right?
I’ve had the same issue with the loop getting in the way, especially when I’m climbing up and down ladders. For me, it’s mostly just a spot for my hammer—anything else seems to swing around too much or fall out. I tried using it for my pry bar once, but that was a mistake... ended up banging my knee more than anything. Maybe it’s just one of those things that works better for some folks than others.
