I prefer the security of the old timey straps since I sometimes have to get a little rough with it on some tree barks. Its impossible for me to squat down while bundled up because of the bar, but I love the bar for security so I made me a helper out of 5/8" wood roundstock 18" long with a heavy duty cup hook screwed into one end. I keep it strapped to the stand with a small thin bungee. It works great to reach down and lift the straps so I can slide my feet in and also pull the stretch cords up behind my boots. Cost: 2 bucks.