UFO Leash Gen 2 vs Gen 3: What Changed and Which One to Choose
moestar teamShare
The UFO Leash started on Kickstarter, where 1,226 backers helped us bring the first ring-shaped retractable leash to life. Since then, a lot of you have walked with it every day, and many of you told us what you would change. Gen 3 is the result.
Here is what is different, and how to choose.
At a glance
| Gen 2 | Gen 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brake | Push-button lock | Trigger brake inside the ring |
| Lead length | 3 m (9.8 ft) | 3 m (9.8 ft), three lock lengths |
| Pulling strength | 90 kg (198 lb) | 140 kg (309 lb) |
| Rated durability | 50,000 extend-and-retract cycles | 70,000 cycles (40% more) |
| Ring diameter | 138 mm | 149 mm, reshaped grip |
| Weight | about 220 g | 232 g (Air) to 244 g (Plus) |
| Lights | Torch and ring light | Torch and ring light on Plus and Pro; Air has no lights |
| Lead exit | Round exit | Redesigned tongue-shaped exit that keeps the lead straighter |
| Recommended dog weight | Up to 30 kg (66 lb) | Up to 30 kg (66 lb) |
| Bungee cord | Compatible | Compatible |
What changed, and why
A trigger brake instead of a button
This is the big one. On Gen 2 you press a button on the side to lock the lead. On Gen 3 the brake is a trigger inside the ring, right where your fingers rest. Squeeze and the lead stops. When your dog spots a cat, you don't have to look for the button.
Stronger and longer-lasting
Gen 3 uses a stainless steel spring and a stronger mechanism. We rate it for 70,000 extend-and-retract cycles, up from 50,000 on Gen 2, and its pulling strength goes up from 90 kg to 140 kg (309 lb).
A bigger, more comfortable ring
The ring grew from 138 mm to 149 mm and the grip was reshaped. It is easier to hold for a long walk and easier to slip over a wrist or a jacket sleeve.
Better lights
On the Plus and Pro, the ring light now uses an optical diffuser, so the glow is more even all the way around. The torch still lights the ground ahead, and the lights charge over USB-C.
A lead that tangles less
We redesigned the point where the lead comes out of the ring so it feeds straighter and is less likely to twist.
Gen 3 Plus, Pro or Air?
- Plus: torch and ring light, soft-touch grey inner ring. The most comfortable to hold, and the one we would pick for regular walks after dark.
- Pro: torch and ring light, white inner ring. Same features as Plus with a classic finish.
- Air: no lights, our lightest Gen 3, in orange or green. Great if you mostly walk in daylight or already use other lights.
See prices and colours on the UFO Leash Gen 3 page.
Should you upgrade from Gen 2?
If your Gen 2 works well for you, there is no rush. It is still a great leash. Gen 3 is worth it if:
- you walk a dog that lunges, and want a faster brake;
- you walk a lot after dark and want the brighter, more even ring light;
- you'd like a bigger, more comfortable grip.
Your Gen 2 accessories carry over: the bungee cord and the poop bag holder fit Gen 3 too.
New to the UFO Leash?
Start with Gen 3. If you need the full setup, the UFO Gen 3 Complete Walk Kit includes the Gen 3 Plus, a four-point harness, two bungee cords and a poop bag holder.
Written by the moestar team.
