Straps definitely add to the equation for me, though I can by no means say I'm at the level where I need expensive straps. You may well be at that same point.

Decent leather straps are fine for me for right now, and they were the right price (cheap).

The nice thing about leather is that it is relatively stiff, and will stay open to permit ease of entrance and exit. I don't run my straps particularly tight either for now, as being prepared to get out is worth more to me than the "increased performance." Far, far better than not having clips and straps though; incomparable even.