Bass guitars are usually much heavier and bigger than your average six-string guitar.
If you are serious about playing, you need to be able to feel comfortable holding your instrument, sometimes for long periods at a time. A good strap can make a difference in how comfortable you will be playing.
In this article, we hope to provide you with valuable information regarding what you should be looking for as you search for the ideal strap and introduce you to some of the best options currently on the market.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Bass Guitar Straps
- OUR TOP PICK: Levy's Leathers M4GF-BLK
- KLIQ AirCell Guitar Strap
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Donner DR-1 Bass Guitar Strap
Table of Contents
Do I Need a Bass Guitar Strap?
If you are planning to play gigs and be on stage, you should probably invest in a good strap. Especially since you are most likely to be standing up, this accessory will help you to hold the weight of your instrument without getting tired as quickly. If you mostly play at home where you can sit comfortably on your couch and lay some of the weight on your lap, you might be okay without getting a strap.
How to Choose a Bass Guitar Strap
Knowing what to look for in the best guitar strap will help you make the best purchasing decision. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for:
Look For Comfort
The best strap is one that allows you to hold the weight of your bass guitar for long periods of time without discomfort or irritation. More padding generally means more comfort, as it prevents the strap from digging into your skin.
Size Matters
Another factor that you should take into account is the width. A very thin strap is unlikely to feel comfortable after a while. Ideally, you want the widest possible option that still feels good on your shoulder. If you have narrow shoulders, you can choose a slightly narrower option, but the general recommendation is that you shouldn’t go much under 3 inches wide.
Choose Your Fabric
Ideally, you will want your strap to last you a long time, and you want to feel confident that it will do the job of securing your instrument. We want to avoid any accidents of straps giving out and your instrument falling on your foot. Leather is usually a reliable choice, but not everyone wants to go for it. Nylon and canvas are the other two standard options. Nylon options can be stylish but are often not the most comfortable. Canvas is a good alternative to leather, as it is almost as thick and durable.
Comparison of the Best Bass Guitar Straps
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Review of the Best Bass Guitar Straps
Now that you know some of the factors you should look out for, it is time to introduce some of our favorite straps. These products have made the list because of their durability, good reviews from other users, and for providing good purchase value.
Best Overall:
Levy’s Leathers M4GF-BLK
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This product has been reviewed very highly by buyers. Recent users say that this strap is extremely comfortable and has a luxurious feeling to it. It has been said to feel durable and is likely to last for years and years. The strap is said to be easy to attach and to adjust.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This strap stands out because it has been reviewed so highly by customers. It is hand-made, stylish, and comfortable – a truly luxurious choice. This could last you probably the rest of your life, and it will never go out of style. It was an easy choice for number one on our list.
Who Will Use This Most
Suited for everyone, bass players and guitarists alike, this strap does require a bit of an investment. However, considering it is likely to last you for a lifetime, the price does not seem that big. This is an excellent choice for someone who wants that luxury feel and is ready to pay for it.
Bottom Line
Although somewhat expensive, this strap is well worth it. The customers who have bought it have reviewed it so highly it is hard not to be convinced that this is one of the best straps out there on the market.
Runner-up:
KLIQ AirCell Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most customers report being happy with their purchase. Users report this strap to be very comfortable, preventing their shoulders from getting sore while playing. The material, although synthetic, is said to seem durable, and is more breathable than leather. Good weight distribution was also reported.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Sometimes synthetic materials can be unbreathable, have a cheap feeling, and break easily. With this strap, this is not the case. Because of the unique AirCell technology, this not only removes moisture from skin but also allows the skin to breathe, making it comfortable even in hot conditions.
Who Will Use This Most
This strap would be ideal for anyone planning to play gigs or otherwise planning to play somewhere warm, where they want something breathable above all. It is also a good choice for anyone not willing to sacrifice on comfort, but not wanting to buy leather for whatever reason.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is an excellent product with great reviews. Customers are happy with the weight distribution and comfort offered by this strap, and especially with the moisture-wicking feature. No more sore shoulders after this purchase!
Best for the Money:
Donner DR-1 Bass Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of customers were surprised at the quality of this product; as for this price they were expecting something that would break instantly. Customers also report this strap to be comfortable and lightweight. Some buyers wish it was longer, but most customers were not bothered by the width.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This strap stands out for what it offers for an extremely affordable price. Although cheap compared to most alternatives, it has managed to delight customers, proof that you do not always need to go for the most expensive option. It is comfortable and durable, which is all you need.
Who Will Use This Most
This strap is an excellent option for kids and beginners. The reason we recommend it to kids is that it is not as lengthy and wide as other alternatives. For beginners, this is a great choice to start learning to play standing up and using a strap without having to break their budget.
Bottom Line
If you came here for a cheap and reliable option, look no further. This may not last you for generations, but it is a great choice for a first strap or a spare one. Customers have been very happy with this product, and there are not many complaints beyond than the unimpressive length.
Best Padded Bass Guitar Strap:
Asmuse Bass Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers seem very happy with their purchase, and some report this to be the most comfortable strap they have ever used. Some have bought it for their children, and it has worked well for them, but others report it being slightly too long for their needs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most obvious reason this strap stands out is the excellent memory foam padding. This feature provides a comfortable playing experience, which is what most players are after. The other reason this strap caught our eye was the affordable price.
Who Will Use This Most
As mentioned, this might not be the best option if you are after a shorter strap. However, if the length suits you, if you don't mind the simple design, and if it is comfort you are after, this is an ideal strap for you.
Bottom Line
This is not the flashiest strap, but it might be the most comfortable. For those who are willing to compromise style for comfort, this is an excellent choice. Just be sure that the length suits you, as it is slightly longer than other options.
Best Wide Bass Guitar Strap:
Walker & Williams Super Wide Bass Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers mostly praise this strap for its beautiful design and for the comfort it provides while playing. As with leather shoes, leather straps might need breaking in. Some customers report the breaking in period to be slightly long, but afterward, the strap is super comfortable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is one of the most beautiful straps out there on the market, which is why we simply had to include it on our list. Although somewhat pricey, it is not the most expensive strap out there. Made of extremely durable leather, this is well worth the investment.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the solution for anyone looking for the ultimate luxurious strap with extra comfort. The design is simple and classic and will suit any bass guitar or guitar. For someone who wants to invest in a strap that will last for a lifetime, this is a perfect choice.
Bottom Line
If you are after something extravagant and colorful, this is not the strap for you. This strap is beautiful in a classic, non-flashy way. It is ideal for someone looking to buy a long-lasting, classically beautiful strap that provides comfort while playing.
Best Ergonomic Bass Guitar Strap:
Gruv Gear DuoStrap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers report being happy with the quality of their purchase. Some buyers are not satisfied with the length, and feel it is too short (not based on the extra-long option). Customers thought the design was stylish and looked good on their instrument. Some reported the adjustment to be tricky at first.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This strap was included on our list because it is highly technical in its design. It has been specially made to distribute the weight of the instrument equally on both shoulders. Providing extreme comfort and a sleek design, this was a must to include on the list.
Who Will Use This Most
Although expensive, this strap is of excellent quality and especially suited for heavy instruments or people with back issues. If your biggest criteria is ideal weight distribution, and you are willing to pay the price, this could be the ideal option for you.
Bottom Line
All in all, this strap provides a technical design that may be tricky to learn to adjust to. It is an investment, but one well worth it if you suffer from back pains. Customer reports confirm this strap provides great comfort while playing, and the design works well with any instrument.
Benefits of Having a Quality Bass Guitar Strap
A high-quality bass guitar strap is essential, especially for those who play for long periods, for it prevents you from developing back issues. As common as a sore back is these days, this is a problem you should try and avoid. Once you start having back problems, they tend to be recurrent, which may prevent you from enjoying your musical hobby.
Not only is it important to be comfortable while playing for the sake of your back, but it is also vital to your performance. A sore back or shoulder will start to easily distract you from your playing, which is the last thing you want! The key to a great performance is feeling great, both mentally and physically.
Another good reason to invest in quality is that it will last you for a long time. If you buy the cheapest strap you see without knowing anything about its quality, you might end up having to buy a new one very soon, as it might break easily. Investing now is likely to save you money in the future. Therefore, it is worth researching before you buy!
Conclusion
Hopefully, by now, we have convinced you that you most likely need a solid, reliable strap, and you now know how to find one. You are aware of the criteria and the features you should look out for, and perhaps you already have a strap in mind you might wish to purchase. If you're still unsure, perhaps the FAQs below will help to clear up your concerns.
People Also Ask
Here are some common questions:
Are Guitar Straps Universal?
Most guitar straps can also be used as straps for bass guitars. Straps are generally universal and interchangeable between electric and acoustic guitars, as well as bass guitars.
What Are Guitar Straps Made Of?
Straps are most commonly made of leather, nylon, or canvas. Leather is the most durable, nylon is fabulous if you want flashy colors or designs, and canvas is a good in-between choice.
How Do You Attach a Strap to a Bass Guitar?
First, take the thick end of your strap and attach it to the strap pin (small metal knob) on the body at the neck end of your instrument. Then take the thin end, and attach this to the bottom strap pin (or endpin) of the bass guitar.
Hold your instrument by the body or neck with your left hand (or right if left-handed), and carefully pull the strap over your head, landing the strap on to your right shoulder. Adjust the length until the strings are crossing the area around your belly button, and there you have it. Now try out this length and fine-tune if needed. The length should be the same regardless of whether you are sitting or standing.
