An elastic strap assembly for tree stands, safety belts and harnesses. The strap assembly is adapted to be attached to a first strap which can be disposed around and secured to a tree and a second strap which is disposed around a person standing in a tree stand or the like. The strap assembly is between six and fifteen inches long under no tension. The strap assembly is capable of stretching at least three inches under a force of 300 pounds. A tether is also provided and is attached between the strap around the tree and the strap around the person in case the elastic strap assembly would happen to break for any reason.