I have removed those straps and put my backpack straps through the foot platform and have used the backpack as my shoulder straps. Carries my gear and is much more comfortable than the original straps. Other options are to buy some add on ones, which are $20 and up, or you can make your own with some webbing and other materials for the padding. Also, using the backpack, I can make it so the stand sits higher on my back - no more rubbing of the back of my legs on the stand, which was extremely annoying and sometimes painful.