My Rohloff shifter is on my TT, same place as for my 2 SA shifters. Zero chance of damage to it or the cables that don't flop around the front. Soon after I got it, I wrapped a shoelace around it during my first tour in sweaty Vietnam. Now, on top of that I have a rubber cap I found in my dad's garage. I can shift with either hand, very handy. LOL.
I think I tried a belt at a LBS. Not enough to judge it.