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2022From a Facebook group: The Steadicam Group

Carrying heavy camera rigs with the Zephyr vest from the Steadicam® M2 kit

DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.

What the thread found

  • Several operators have successfully flown Alexa Mini, LF, and SXT cameras, as well as rigs weighing approximately 35 lb, with the Zephyr vest for years without issues.
  • Other operators found the Zephyr vest uncomfortable under full load and would not trust it with heavy cameras.
  • At maximum Aero-30 load (approximately 20 lb), the Zephyr vest shows noticeable flexing; adding crossback straps improves comfort and rigidity.
  • The Zephyr vest features a standard-sized socket block, positioning it as a budget option comparable to the SmartSystem vest.

Depends on

  • Operator experience and comfort threshold with the Zephyr vest vary significantly.
  • Rig weight and camera model affect perceived performance.
  • Comfort improves with additional crossback straps.

Gear in this thread

Zephyrcatalog, G-70Xcatalog

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Rigging a Steadicam® Zephyr with Sony FX6 to an off-road vehicle (UTV) for live transmission: Hard Mount preparation and alternativesFacebookSteadicam operators group
  2. 2026Mounting a G70x arm on the rear socket block of a Walter Klassen vest (transition from Exovest, regular operator setup)DisputedFacebookThe Steadicam Group
  3. 2026Techniques for maintaining level horizons while operating a SteadicamGeneral Discussion
  4. 2026Steadicam® A-30 lower arm segment stiffness and squeaking after warranty service; bearing ring contact hypothesis.FacebookSteadicam operators group
Original thread on Facebook (group members only)Ask about this threadThe answer cites the archive