It’s true — the running joke among bloggers and social media-philes is that if it didn’t get posted, tweeted or shared (gasp!) it may not have happened. This is particularly true when it comes to workouts with the fitness crowd.

But in all seriousness, I typically carry my phone for safety reasons (particularly when running), and sometimes it is nice to have a camera on hand to document breathtaking scenery, grab a group shot or capture the adrenaline high after conquering an especially tough challenge.

That’s where my trusty GoPro usually comes in. While I absolutely love it, I’ll admit it hasn’t gotten as much use as I would like because my arm length (or lack thereof) is limiting and can make it tough to get the exact shot I want.

Enter the XShot Pro Camera Extender ($64.95), which is a must-have accessory for any GoPro owner (in fact, they’ve got a whole series of Go Pro Poles). Not only does it help make a great camera even more versatile, but it also give you a lot of room to get creative and work all kinds of new angles.

Here’s the lowdown, from my perspective:

Features: 

• Aluminum GoPro mount with thumbscrew
• Aluminum tripod mount included for other cameras
• XShot Mount rotates 360°
• Compatible with HERO, HERO2, HERO3, HERO3+ and HERO4 cameras
• Compatible with other action cameras (e.g., Sony, Ion, JVC)
• Compatible with any compact camera

Pros:

• SUPER easy to use — attach, adjust angle, extend, aim and smile 🙂
• Compatible with many different kinds of cameras — pick your poison!
• Durable, yet secure — aircraft-grade aluminum, over-sized wrist strap, non-slip rubber grip
• Pocket-friendly — weighs less than seven ounces, collapses to seven inches long and extends to 32 inches
• Gives new life to your GoPro…the picture options and angles are pretty much endless!

Cons:

• Another thing to carry — not as run-friendly for the “naked” runner, but would fit well in a trail vest
• Swapping camera mounts (GoPro/universal) requires an Allen wrench, which can be a bit tedious while on-the-go
• Maximum camera weight is listed at 1.25 pounds, so while you can technically put any kind on it…there is a limit
• Mixed feedback on underwater and saltwater use (I haven’t tested it that way, though, so do your research before buying!)

But the best part? I went from having to grab haphazard shots like this (taken almost exactly a year ago!)…

To being able to take fun pictures like this with more people — and scenery — in them!

Well, eventually…but you get the point. While Baby H has me sidelined from my usual trail adventures at the moment, I’m itching to hit the track with the LUNA ladies next month and get some great images of them doing their thing. 

What’s your favorite piece of equipment for capturing moments — and action shots — worth sharing? I’d love to hear other recommendations below! 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the XShot Pro for free as coordinated by Outdoor PR in consideration for review publication. All opinions are my own.