When I first started using poles (Komperdel Antishock @ 600g per pair) I always used the straps and considered them an integral part of the poles. I used them for around 200 days including 100 days on the full GR5 (North Sea to Med). When using these I had a base weight around 12-15 kg.
In my recent push towards UL I switched to Ti Goat poles (240g per pair), used with a base weight of around 4-5 kg. After 40 days use, and I am ambivalent about the straps. I find them useful when using the poles in more extreme conditions (steep uphill, down hill and river crossings) but I am finding them a bit of a nuisance on flatter, easier terrain. I don't think it is the strap design or materials, just the lighter weight of the poles and lighter base weight.
As the straps are mainly used when pressing down on them, I am about to experiment with removing the straps on easier terrain. I believe I can do this by not tightening the strap attachment, allowing the strap to slip out of the pole quite easily.
