I don't know if it just needed to get worn in a few rotations, but once you actually use it a while and hit a stride, you realize that it actually works and that to hit a comfortable walking stride, you need to lessen the tension.

If you need something to just hang on to, keeping a steady stride all the while, you'll love it!Bonus: this company has GREAT customer service

If you let go, it's impossible to keep a steady stride and the belt runs away from you (in my experience, at least)