The Art Of Shreddin'

Guitar Strap Guide

Acoustic/Electric/Bass

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There really is no difference between straps, but certain strap models generally work better with certain instruments. With bass players, you typically find that longer, bulkier, and typically more expensive straps work better to support their larger heavier instrument. 

The difference here is the method of attachment.

For electric guitars – there will almost always be two strap buttons on the body, so attachment is easy.

For acoustic guitars – most will only have one strap on the bottom of the body.  So you’ll need to attach the other side of the strap to the headstock using a string.

Evil Hair Guitar Strap Acoustic

Strap Features

Levy’s Leathers 2.5″ Suede Strap

Length

Width

Locking Mechanism

Material

Length

Standard straps lengths are adjustable between 40-60 inches or so, which is a suitable range for almost anyone.

Perri’s Leathers Adjustable Guitar Straps
Fender Ombré Guitar Strap

 

However, if you play bass, are exceptionally tall, like your guitar hanging low, or any combination of these…

Choose an extra long strap, which typically extends up to 70″ or more.

Width

Guitar straps widths typically range from 2″ on the thin side, to 4″ on the thick side.

As a general rule of thumb, thicker straps are designed mainly to:

support heavier instruments

offer added comfort for extended play

Ernie Ball Jacquard Guitar strap
Perri’s Leathers Adjustable Guitar Straps

They are usually more expensive as well. Thicker doesn’t ALWAYS mean better, as many players with lighter instruments find thick straps to be unnecessarily bulky, and actually LESS comfortable to wear than something thinner.

Material

The combination of materials used in making a particular guitar strap is perhaps the most important detail of all.

It’s what ultimately determines comfort, performance, durability, and price.

Blue Lightning Guitar Strap
Fender Broken-In Leather Guitar Strap

 

The 4 most commonly used materials for guitar straps are:

  1. nylon
  2. cotton
  3. leather
  4. neoprene and/or memory foam

Budget Guitar Straps

Most good straps under $30 are made of either nylon or cotton, with cheap leather ends.

The first common complaint with straps in this price range is that they are uncomfortable to wear for extended periods. They have a tendency to dig into your shoulder.

Performance Plus GS1T Strap
Best Sounds Guitar Strap

If you move around a lot when you play, it’s possible that the strap could slip off, causing your guitar to fall to the ground.

The truth is that as long as you aren’t playing a heavy instrument, like a bass…an $8 strap can last you years without any problems.

Midrange Guitar Straps

This middle price range, between $30-$70, is exactly where you should be shopping. Straps at these prices, will be better quality and will work best.

They’re more comfortable, they last longer, they look cooler, and they’ll keep your guitar safer. It makes sense to spend the extra money.

Levy’s Leathers Sundance
Levy’s Leathers Guitar Strap with Fake Bullets

If you move around a lot when you play, it’s possible that the strap could slip off, causing your guitar to fall to the ground.

The truth is that as long as you aren’t playing a heavy instrument, like a bass…an $8 strap can last you years without any problems.

Premium Guitar Straps

Not only do they look amazing, but they are extremely comfortable as well.

For bass players especially, these straps can have the effect of making the instrument feel lighter than it really is.

Levy’s Leathers MSS17
Leather Padded Guitar Strap for Bass

Custom boutique guitar straps can cost $200-$400, and sometimes even more. 

Most guitar straps that are priced over $100, are due to design, not additional performance. They are more expensive because of their artwork, or craftsmanship.

Guitar Strap Locking Systems

Guitar strap locks are devices that are used to secure a guitar strap to a guitar. Strap locks can be screwed into the guitar or clipped on. Screw-in strap locks are more secure, compared to clip-on strap locks, which are easier to install and remove.

D’Addario Auto Lock Guitar Strap
Schaller S Locks Guitar Strap Locks

Guitar strap locks are an optional accessory, but they are worth considering. They are very important, if you play live,  or standing up. Even if you practice at home, sitting down, it is always important to keep your guitar secure.

There are always problems with standard leather strap loops, that connect to the guitar. They have a tendency to slip off, from the movement of the player on-stage, or the weight of the guitar.

Fender Infinity Locks
Ernie Ball PolyLock Guitar Strap

 

Regular wear and tear is also an issue. The strap holes, where you attach the guitar pegs will loosen, over time. The longer you use your guitar strap, will cause the hole to get bigger. You do not want your guitar to slide out of the strap and end up falling.

Many players will only use straps made with custom locking mechanisms. They are an underrated accessory, and some players think they are unnecessary.

I think all guitar straps should be designed with strap locks.

D’Addario Accessories Universal Strap Lock
Guitar Strap For Bass, Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Strap Locks Included

Having your straps locked into place, prevents your guitar from falling and getting seriously damaged. It only makes sense to avoid expensive guitar repairs, and to preserve the value of your guitar.

Why take the chance of your guitar falling, during a live performance. It wouldn’t only damage your guitar, but it could interfere with your playing.

Ernie Ball Super Locks
Dunlop Straplok Dual Design
Fender Strap Locks for Electric Guitar