DIY Action Camera Chest Mount Guide for Perfect Shots

Create a custom DIY action camera chest mount using affordable, everyday materials like elastic straps, buckles, and a 3D-printed or repurposed camera adapter for secure, hands-free shooting. Achieve professional-level stability and dynamic angles perfect for biking, hiking, or vlogging—no expensive gear required. This simple build ensures comfort, durability, and crystal-clear POV footage every time.

Key Takeaways

• Use adjustable straps for a secure, comfortable fit on any body type.
• Choose lightweight materials to avoid strain during long recording sessions.
• Ensure camera stability by reinforcing the mount with non-slip padding.
• Test angles before filming to capture the best first-person perspective.
• Waterproof your setup if shooting in wet or humid environments.
• Keep cables tidy with clips or wraps to prevent snagging.

Why a DIY Action Camera Chest Mount Might Be Your Best Adventure Upgrade

Remember that one time you tried to film your mountain bike descent using just your hands? Yeah, me too. The shaky mess of blurred trees and sudden drops made me realize: if I wanted to capture the real feeling of the ride—the wind in my face, the trail flying beneath my tires—I needed a better way to mount my action camera.

That’s when I discovered the magic of the DIY action camera chest mount. Unlike expensive commercial options, a homemade version gives you control, customization, and a sense of pride every time you press record. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, kayaking, or chasing your dog through the backyard, a chest-mounted camera captures your world from a uniquely immersive angle. It’s not just about getting the shot—it’s about sharing your experience exactly as you feel it.

What Is a DIY Action Camera Chest Mount and Why Build One?

A DIY action camera chest mount is exactly what it sounds like: a self-made rig that securely holds your action camera (GoPro, DJI Osmo, Insta360, etc.) to your chest, freeing your hands while capturing first-person perspective footage. Unlike helmet mounts that show what you’re looking at, chest mounts show what your body is doing—perfect for activities where your hands are busy or your head is moving too much.

The Real-World Advantages of a Chest Mount

• Natural perspective: It mimics how you actually experience motion—your body moves with the terrain, giving viewers a visceral sense of speed and movement.

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• Hands-free freedom: Ideal for climbing, skiing, or using tools. No more fumbling with handheld shots.
• Less neck strain: No need to tilt your head up or down to frame the shot.
• Better stability than handheld: While not as stable as a gimbal, it’s far steadier than waving your phone around.

I learned this the hard way during a rock climbing trip. My helmet cam kept showing the sky or the ground because I was constantly looking up and down. When I switched to a chest rig, suddenly I had footage of my hands gripping the rock, my feet searching for holds—and it felt way more authentic.

Why DIY Instead of Buying?

You might be thinking, “Can’t I just buy a chest harness?” Sure. But here’s why making your own is worth it:

• Cost: A quality commercial chest mount runs $30–$80. A DIY version can cost under $10.
• Customization: Want a quick-release? Extra padding? A mount that works with your backpack straps? DIY lets you build exactly what you need.
• Repairability: If a strap breaks or a clip fails, you can fix it—no need to order a replacement part.
• Fun and learning: There’s something satisfying about building your own gear. Plus, you learn how it works, which helps you troubleshoot on the go.

And let’s be real: if you’re into outdoor adventures, you’re probably already comfortable with a little DIY. This is just one more tool to add to your skillset.

Essential Materials and Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a workshop or fancy tools to make a great chest mount. Most of what you need is already in your garage, toolbox, or junk drawer. Here’s a breakdown of the key components—and where to get them.

Core Components for a Basic DIY Chest Mount

• Straps: 1–1.5-inch wide nylon webbing (like backpack straps) or elastic bands. Nylon is durable and adjustable; elastic is stretchy and comfortable.
• Buckles or clips: Side-release buckles (like on backpacks) or ladder-lock buckles. These let you adjust the fit and take the mount on/off easily.
• Mount base: A standard action camera tripod mount (the little plastic or metal base that screws into your camera). These are usually included with your camera or can be bought for $2–$5.
• Attachment point: This is where the camera connects. You can use a simple loop, a 3D-printed adapter, or even a repurposed carabiner.
• Padding (optional): Foam, neoprene, or even an old t-shirt to make the chest strap more comfortable.

Tools You Might Use

• Scissors or utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Needle and thread (or a sewing machine)
• Hot glue gun (for quick fixes)
• Drill (if modifying hard plastic or metal)
• Lighter (to melt nylon ends and prevent fraying)

Pro tip: If you’re not into sewing, you can use buckle connectors to join straps without stitching. Just loop the strap through the buckle and tighten. It’s less permanent but works great for testing designs.

Where to Source Materials (Without Breaking the Bank)

• Old backpacks or bags: Cut off straps and buckles. Free and eco-friendly.
• Hardware stores: Look for “webbing straps” or “cargo tie-downs.” They often sell small lengths of nylon with clips.
• Online marketplaces: Amazon, AliExpress, or eBay have bulk packs of action camera mounts and webbing for under $15.
• Thrift stores: Old hiking vests or climbing harnesses can be repurposed.

For example, I once made a chest mount using straps from an old school backpack and a GoPro mount I bought for $3. Total cost: $3. Total time: 45 minutes. And it worked better than the $60 one I’d bought years ago.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Chest Mount

Now for the fun part: building it. I’ll walk you through a simple, adjustable, and comfortable design that works for most body types and camera brands. This version uses nylon webbing and side-release buckles—easy to assemble and fully adjustable.

Step 1: Measure Your Chest and Shoulders

Put on the clothes you’ll wear during filming (a jacket, for example, adds thickness). Use a measuring tape to find:

• The circumference of your chest (just below the armpits)
• The distance from one shoulder to the opposite hip (for the diagonal strap)

Write these down. You’ll use them to cut your straps to the right length.

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Straps

You’ll need three main straps:

• Chest strap: Should be about 2–3 inches longer than your chest measurement.
• Shoulder straps (2): One from each shoulder to the chest mount point. Cut each about 6 inches longer than the diagonal measurement.
• Vertical support (optional): A small strap from the camera mount up to the shoulder to reduce bounce.

After cutting, use a lighter to gently melt the ends of the nylon webbing. This prevents fraying and makes threading buckles easier.

Step 3: Attach Buckles and Create the Frame

1. On the chest strap, attach a side-release buckle in the middle. This will be your front closure.
2. On each shoulder strap, attach one side of a side-release buckle at the top end (shoulder side).
3. At the bottom end (chest side), sew or clip a loop or D-ring to hold the camera mount.
4. Connect the shoulder straps to the chest strap using the buckles. Adjust the length so the camera sits just below your collarbone—high enough to avoid blocking the lens, low enough to feel stable.

Tip: If you’re not sewing, use ladder-lock buckles on the shoulder straps. They let you adjust length without stitching.

Step 4: Install the Camera Mount

Take your action camera’s tripod mount and attach it to the D-ring or loop at the chest point. You can:

• Sew it directly to a fabric loop
• Use a zip tie to secure it (temporary but effective)
• 3D print a small adapter that clips onto the strap

I like using a small carabiner to attach the mount. It lets me swap cameras or remove the mount quickly. Just make sure it’s rated for the weight of your gear.

Step 5: Add Padding (Optional but Recommended)

Cut a piece of foam or neoprene slightly smaller than the chest strap. Slide it over the strap or glue it in place. This prevents chafing, especially during long shoots or in hot weather.

For extra comfort, use an old sock or piece of soft fabric as a cover. Sew it into a tube and slide it over the strap.

Step 6: Test and Adjust

Put on your DIY action camera chest mount and walk around. Do the straps dig in? Does the camera bounce? Adjust the lengths until it feels secure but comfortable.

Then, film a quick test video. Check the footage: Is the horizon level? Is the frame stable? Make minor tweaks as needed.

One thing I learned: if the camera bounces too much, add a short vertical strap from the mount to one shoulder. It acts like a stabilizer and keeps the camera steady during running or biking.

Customization Ideas for Different Activities

Your chest mount doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all. With a few tweaks, you can adapt it for different sports and environments. Here are some real-world examples from my own adventures.

For Mountain Biking: Stability and Quick Release

Biking means lots of movement and potential crashes. You want a mount that’s secure but easy to remove in an emergency.

• Use wider straps (1.5 inches) to distribute pressure.
• Add a quick-release carabiner or magnetic clip so you can ditch the mount fast.
• Tilt the camera slightly downward to capture the handlebars and trail ahead.

I once crashed hard on a rocky descent. My DIY mount stayed on, but the quick-release let me unclip it in seconds to check for injuries. That saved me from getting tangled.

For Skiing and Snowboarding: Cold-Weather Comfort

Straps can feel stiff in cold weather. And if you’re wearing thick layers, you need adjustability.

• Use elastic or neoprene straps that stretch with your movements.
• Add ladder-lock buckles so you can loosen the fit when layering up.
• Cover the metal parts with tape to prevent skin contact in freezing temps.

Bonus: elastic straps reduce bounce on bumpy runs. My snowboarding footage looks way smoother since I switched from rigid nylon to stretchy webbing.

For Hiking and Trail Running: Lightweight and Low Profile

You don’t want extra bulk on long hikes. Keep it minimal.

• Use thin, lightweight straps (1 inch or less).
• Skip the padding unless you’re carrying heavy gear.
• Angle the camera slightly upward to capture your surroundings, not just the ground.

I made a “trail cam” version using paracord and a mini GoPro mount. It weighs almost nothing and fits under my backpack straps.

For Kayaking and Water Sports: Waterproof and Secure

Water means slippery straps and potential loss. Make it waterproof and fail-safe.

• Use synthetic webbing (not cotton) that dries quickly.
• Add a safety tether from the camera to your PFD or wrist.
• Seal any metal parts with silicone to prevent rust.

I once dropped my camera in a river. The tether saved it—and the footage was epic (a fish swam right past the lens!).

For Climbing: Hands-Free and Snag-Resistant

Climbing gear can snag on loose straps. Keep everything tight and close to your body.

• Use flat, low-profile straps that won’t catch on carabiners.
• Position the camera lower on the chest to avoid rope interference.
• Add a small cover or shield to protect the lens from rock dust.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best plans, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues I’ve faced—and how to fix them.

Problem: The Camera Bounces Too Much

Cause: Loose straps or too much movement in the chest area.

Fix:

• Tighten the shoulder and chest straps.
• Add a vertical stabilizer strap (from mount to shoulder).
• Use a lower camera position—closer to your waist reduces bounce.

I once filmed a run with the camera too high. The footage looked like a pogo stick. Lowering it by 2 inches made all the difference.

Problem: The Straps Dig Into Your Skin

Cause: Narrow or unpadded straps, especially with heavy cameras.

Fix:

• Widen the straps or add foam padding.
• Distribute weight across both shoulders (avoid single-strap designs).
• Use soft materials like neoprene or fleece.

Problem: The Mount Wobbles or Rotates

Cause: A loose attachment point or poor mount design.

Fix:

• Double-check that the tripod mount is screwed in tightly.
• Use a rubber O-ring or tape to add friction between the camera and mount.
• 3D print a custom mount with a snug fit.

Problem: The Frame Is Crooked or Off-Center

Cause: Uneven strap lengths or a misaligned mount.

Fix:

• Adjust the shoulder strap lengths until the camera sits level.
• Use a level app on your phone to check alignment before filming.
• Mark the “perfect” strap length with a permanent marker for quick setup.

Problem: It’s Hard to Put On or Take Off

Cause: Too many buckles or no quick-release.

Fix:

• Use side-release buckles at the front and shoulders.
• Add a magnetic clip for the camera mount.
• Design it so you can slip it over your head like a vest.

Data Table: DIY vs. Commercial Chest Mounts Compared

Feature	DIY Chest Mount	Commercial Chest Mount
Cost	$5–$20	$30–$80
Customization	Fully customizable (straps, padding, mount type)	Limited to brand design
Durability	Depends on materials (can be very durable)	Generally high-quality, but proprietary parts
Repairability	Easy to fix with basic tools	May require replacement parts
Weight	Lightweight (especially with paracord or elastic)	Slightly heavier due to padding and structure
Setup Time	First build: 30–60 minutes. Reuse: 2 minutes	Always 2–5 minutes
Best For	Adventurers who value customization and cost savings	Users who want plug-and-play reliability

This table shows the trade-offs. DIY wins on cost and customization. Commercial wins on convenience and brand reliability. But if you’re willing to invest a little time, DIY gives you a mount that’s perfectly suited to your needs.

Final Thoughts: Your Adventure, Your Way

Building a DIY action camera chest mount isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating a tool that fits your adventures like a second skin. It’s about capturing the real, unfiltered moments: the rush of a downhill trail, the quiet of a sunrise hike, the joy of a dog sprinting through the snow.

I’ve used mine for everything from backyard science experiments to multi-day backpacking trips. And every time I press record, I remember that I built this. That sense of ownership makes the footage feel more personal, more real.

You don’t need to be an engineer or a seamstress. You just need curiosity, a few basic tools, and the willingness to try. Start simple. Test it. Tweak it. Make it yours. And when you’re out there, chasing your next adventure, you’ll have a chest mount that doesn’t just hold your camera—it holds your story.

So grab some straps, find that old camera, and get building. Your perfect shot is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DIY action camera chest mount?

A DIY action camera chest mount is a homemade harness that securely holds your action camera to your chest, allowing for hands-free recording during activities like biking, hiking, or skiing. It’s a cost-effective alternative to commercial mounts, often made from materials like straps, buckles, and 3D-printed adapters.

How do I make a DIY action camera chest mount?

To make a DIY action camera chest mount, you’ll need adjustable straps, a sturdy base plate, and a camera mount adapter. Attach the adapter to the base plate, secure it to the straps, and ensure it fits snugly across your chest for stable, first-person footage.

What materials are best for a DIY chest mount for action cameras?

Ideal materials include nylon webbing for durability, quick-release buckles for easy adjustment, and a 3D-printed or repurposed plastic base for the camera mount. These components ensure a secure, comfortable fit while keeping your camera stable during movement.

Can I use a DIY chest mount with any action camera?

Yes, most DIY chest mounts are compatible with popular action cameras like GoPro, DJI, or Insta360, as long as you use a standard mounting interface. Just ensure the adapter matches your camera’s mounting system for a secure connection.

Is a DIY action camera chest mount as stable as a store-bought one?

When built properly with quality materials, a DIY chest mount can be just as stable as commercial versions. Proper padding, tight straps, and a secure camera attachment minimize shake and ensure smooth, professional-looking footage.

Are there safety concerns with using a DIY chest mount?

Yes, always test your DIY action camera chest mount before intense activities to ensure it won’t fail or cause injury. Avoid sharp edges, use strong fasteners, and regularly check for wear to keep your camera and yourself safe.