I felt the same for a long time. I used chains designed for car haulers exclusively (I once had a car hauler).
But, if you look at the tests the nylon webbing is amazing strong. In fact, if you look at the load ratings compared to chains normally used for tie down you'll probably be rather surprised. Google should turn up some good info if you dig enough, but it will be hard to narrow the search. Back when I decided to go to straps, I spent quite a bit of time researching opinions (searching forums like this) and reading (apparently) authoritative and unbiased reviews. Unfortunately I did not retain the details of that research so I'm unable to site it now.
Currently, the only concern I have for straps is that any damage reduces their strength dramatically. That includes nicks and cuts as well as UV damage. So, you have to keep the straps clean, be careful in their placement to avoid damage, and inspect frequently. Fortunately they are relatively inexpensive so the urge to say, “Yeah, it’s frayed a bit, but it *should* be ok…” is not too strong.
Chains can take far more abuse and do not require vigilance in inspection and careful use like straps. There are really no concerns about cuts. Sling them around something and pull them tight against a sharp edge, no worries. Grease, dirt, who cares. Leaving them laying out on the trailer in the sun for months on end does not hurt them other than maybe a little surface rust, nothing that reduces their load bearing ability. Same for dirt and sand, the chain does not care, but the abrasive stuff can hurt a strap. I think this ability to withstand abuse is probably the only reason chains are still in use on haulers.
For me, I just take care of the straps and I’m careful to avoid getting them dirty, or cutting them. The added care is well worth the convenience and speed allowed by the straps, and the straps actually give me far more margin of safety than I ever had with my old chain setup which took so long to place/remove.
