I hope this is is okay: I'm going to reply to my own thread. I used the L.L. Bean Sling. In many ways it's a great product. The waist belt is really helpful for taking weight off the shoulder, so unlike with other slings, carrying some weight is not a problem. I like that the sling is roomy and has three compartments. The only big problem with it is the shoulder strap. I wanted something I can use in hot weather to replace my fly fishing vest; so I was wearing a very lightweight shirt and the sling's stiff shoulder strap became very uncomfortable when I was walking. Luckily, I had a thick rubber band that I put around the strap, curling it upwards. This helped a lot. Right now, I put a few rubber bands around the strap. I'm hoping that it will loosen it up. If not, I'm thinking of gluing some neoprene on the strap. It's a shame L.L. Bean didn't see this problem. Other than that, this pack would be a winner.