Anything to protect a child is fine by me. If the child is older than say 4, then it is a bit ridiculous because the kid should know to stick by you and hold hands, etc...but if the child is young and you are going out to a crowded place (EX Disneyland) then I think it is useful for some people. Some young kids don't want to be pushed or carried...they would like to walk. In a crowed place safety comes first over appearance. I don't have kids, but if I need to or thought it was a good idea I would leash my kid! I wouldn't care what others thought about it! Now...for everyday errands or a trip to the park...I think you should just go it without a leash and harness!
Hehe!