While the tripods will now come in blue, green, gray, and red, the lightweight aluminum tripods have two new additions that go beyond just style upgrades. New, larger rubber feet give the Befree Colors a better grip compared to earlier Befree models.
The Befree Colors also now sport a counterweight hook. Sitting on the bottom of the tripod’s center column, the hook allows photographers to hang their camera bag — or use sandbags — to add extra stability. The hook serves a way to weigh down the tripod for added security in windy conditions giving the three-pound support system more stability. The hook is a feature that is often particularly helpful for larger gear or using the tripod as a lighting support with an umbrella.
Besides the new feet and hook, Manfrotto says each new color model also has a unique graphics printed on the legs.
The new features join a list of features already familiar to the Manfrotto Fan. The legs are reverse folding, which means the legs fold in for easy portability — measuring 16.14 inches when folded. The tripod is capable of handling gear up to 8.82 pounds, which is nearly three times the weight of the tripod itself. The Befree Color reaches a maximum height of about 56 inches thanks to four leg sections. The support system uses a ball head with a quick-release plate.
The Befree Color joins Manfrotto’s tripod line, which also includes the Befree Aluminum, Befree Carbon, and Befree One.
The latest Befree options list for $180 — $20 lower than the original Befree Aluminum series original list price. The Befree tripods also ship with a carrying case.
