Interesting question. Before I started I thought the leather handle looked more comfortable, while at the same time I thought the D-Ring would probably work better, but I ended up with a no-handle design (filly) and have only used this style of strop. I have come to like the no-handle due to its simplicity and imagining that it gives me more feel and control. Also I believe these were called barber's handles, which sealed the deal for me, since they do a lot more shaves and must know best.