I didn't know I needed a soft and thick double handled leash until I bought a soft and thick double handled leash. In fact, I bought two of them, one each for my two labs.I was looking for a leash to attach to their harness. I often let them run off leash with their harness on, but wanted to buy new leashes as their basic old ones were getting frayed and dirty and just seemed due for replacement. I found myself spending a lot of time looking at leashes on Amazon. I really hadn't ever considered all the styles and possibilities!I saw these and some similar ones, and decided I liked the idea of a double handle for the added control as needed. The thick padded handles didn't mean anything to me at the time. The reflective aspect of the ones I chose was a bonus as I typically do our public walking during day time, but remembered sometimes we are out for a walk at dusk (all other times is in our big yard in the country). I liked that it was a 6ft leash without being made for tiny dogs (often evidenced by narrow strap). I have 2 big labs and I prefer the wider strap. I loved the bright colors and since they matched the color of the harnesses I have for them best, it was my deciding factor.Now I am here to tell you that the padded handle is oddly rather wonderful. It doesn't cut into the hand, it offers added stability and control and it is simply comfortable. The clasp is sturdy, the extra handle has been well utilized already and works to keep dogs closer to me as needed. The little loop to hook keys, poop bags, or whatever is a little detail that adds functionality that I hadn't thought I needed or cared for before. What was just a leash to me, is now also an adornment with added comfort and functionality. I have only been using these for a couple of weeks, but so far they are holding up. I will absolutely amend my review if there are any problems in the near future after further use.As always, don't let your dog chew on it. No leash is going to be indestructible to a determined chewer.