Mmmmm, thanks. Looks like they can be effective then.
When I trained in Florida the shoulder straps were never worn, only the lap strap, except for during the Skill Test with the examiner - very similar comment from my instructor about not liking them - not a good habit to be starting off with! Here in NL it is frowned on but to my knowledge not illegal to do this; we are expected to wear the full seatbelt.
I don't find it especially uncomfortable, just very inconvenient in the C172 I drive, as for example the COM1 stack is built into the far right of the panel (with COM2 in the middle), it's very difficult to work when restricted by the seat belt. The PA28's mostly have inertia reel belts which make it much easier.
Fly Safe...
TAFO