When you think of everything you need to make your guitar kit perfect, the last thing many people think of is the guitar strap. The simple accessory may not have a lot to do with the quality of sound when you first think of it, but when it all boils down, it does play a small role in it.
With the right guitar strap, you will have stability and comfort, which will allow you to play for hours, but what makes a good guitar strap? Which one is the best for you?
Those are all the questions we are going to answer for you in this guide. So, strap in and let’s get our rockstar on shall we!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Guitar Straps
- OUR TOP PICK: Levy's Leathers Signature Series Cotton Guitar Strap
- Timbregear Extreme Comfort Guitar Strap
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Ernie Ball Ernie Ball Black Polypro Guitar Strap
Table of Contents
What Size of Guitar Strap Do I Need?
The first thing you may be thinking is how do I tell if I’ve got the right size. There are a few parameters when it comes to length and width you definitely need to consider.
For length, the typical strap ranges in size from 40” to 60”, which is a kind of universal size and will work for most people. However, if you are tall or your playing style is to let your guitar swing low, you may want to look for a large strap. Some models adjust all the way up to 70”.
With width, you are going to look at a strap between 2” and 4”. There are reasons for you to go with a wide strap. These can include heavier instruments like a bass, or if you are going to play for long extended times.
In the end, loosely sticking to these guidelines and finding one that feels good to you is the best way to determine what size of guitar strap you need.
How to Choose a Quality Guitar Strap
Making sure you find the right guitar strap for you is a very important part of the whole process, and that means knowing what makes a good guitar strap. Several factors play a part.
Here are the ones we think play the most significant role when it comes to a decision that you won’t regret:
Locking Mechanism
You will want to consider if your guitar strap comes with a locking mechanism or you will need to add one. It is a great tool to help make your guitar more secure.
Material
The material plays a part not only in durability but for comfort as well. So, taking a good look at the material you choose of which there are may help make the decision right for you and your needs. (See People Also Ask section below for more on materials.)
Size
Thinking about the length and width as we discussed above can make the ultimate decision a way more comfortable one. This also plays a part in the mobility of your playing style. So, finding one that works with your playing style and frame is crucial.
Budget
Finally, you will want to pay close attention to your budget. There are good quality budget-friendly straps that will cost you no more than $7 and then for a more luxurious one, you can look at pieces that can get up to $50 or $60.
Comparison of the Best Guitar Straps
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Review of the Best Guitar Straps
With the basics under your belt, we’re ready to talk about our list of the best guitar straps. Here are the choices we feel best represent the most extensive selections of options for you:
Best Overall:
Levy’s Leathers Signature Series Cotton Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers of this guitar strap from Levy’s Leathers simply love the construction and comfort of the wear. Crafted with high-grade cotton, they can tell that the manufacturer has put a lot of time and attention to detail into making this strap one of the best on the market.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is simply the overall best guitar strap on the market for its comfortable design and adjustability. These are the things that stand out to us, and then when you add the multiple color choices, you end up with a guitar strap that is easily tailored to your style and preference.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an excellent strap for new players who are looking for an ultra-comfortable strap. Though in truth it is really a great all-around guitar player no matter what level. Another guitarist that may get the most out of this is the guitarist who is going to be playing extended sets.
Bottom Line
In the end, the wide options that allow for personalization and the overall construction of this guitar strap from Levy’s Leathers, led to us choosing this as the best overall guitar strap available this year.
Runner-up:
Timbregear Extreme Comfort Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The guitarists that have invested in this strap love the mix of high-grade materials and the ease of attachment. The fact that locking mechanisms come with the strap only adds to the high regard given by these guitarists to this product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The adjustable length that goes above the average length is what really stands out and had us easily choosing this as our runner-up to the best overall strap. This means that there is a wider base of guitarists that can be served by this guitar accessory.
Who Will Use This Most
This strap would be great for the guitarist that plays multiple instruments of varying weight. The build and the adjustability would suit this player, making it easier to account for the change in weight. It is also a great choice for those players that like to vary their playing style.
Bottom Line
The only thing that kept this from being in the first place slot is the lack of color choice. Other than that, this guitar strap from Timbergear is an excellently crafted comfortable option for any guitarist.
Best for the Money:
Ernie Ball Black Polypro Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the guitarists that have purchased this strap love the price and the comfort that this model offers. Though many would like just a touch more padding and easier ways to adjust the length.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The quality of the strap for the price that is on the tag is a fantastic investment. That is what stands out when we look at this guitar strap. With its wide adjustment capability and its high-quality mix of materials makes this guitar strap level with many of its competitors.
Who Will Use This Most
This is great for the guitarist that is working with a tight budget but still understands the importance of a great guitar strap. Designed with high-end features for a nice budget-friendly price tag, this strap will help your long hours of play just a bit more comfortable.
Bottom Line
Just because you are dealing with a tight budget doesn’t mean that you should have to suffer from an uncomfortable strap. That is why if you are struggling with finances, this strap is easily the best investment for a low price.
Best Acoustic Guitar Strap:
Cloudmusic Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
When you look at most of the reviews, you will notice one thing. They are inevitably high, and that is because these customers have developed an affinity for the high quality and beautifully designed guitar strap.
Why it Stands Out to Us
When you look at this guitar strap, you probably see the thing that stands out the most right off the bat. The design of this guitar strap is such a stylish design you would be hard-pressed not to envision the guitar attached to your acoustic guitar.
Who Will Use This Most
This is great for the guitarist that loves to tour and needs a reliable acoustic guitar strap that offers a touch of style and is still super comfortable to wear over those long hours of multiple sets.
Bottom Line
Having a great acoustic guitar strap that has a stylish look is a nice touch to any performance. This works well with the overall aesthetic of an acoustic, and that is what makes this a great option, no matter what level of experience you play at.
Best Bass Guitar Strap:
Levy’s Leathers Bass Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This guitar strap is perfect for the bass player looking for a high-quality guitar strap, and that is a sentiment shared by most of the recent buyers. Though there are a few issues with the weakened stitching and a super visible logo.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This strap’s whole design seems to be constructed to optimize the comfortability of bass players. That is what stands out to us. From the width of the strap to the dual layers of padding, this guitar accessory is a great addition to any guitarist’s equipment.
Who Will Use This Most
This strap is perfect for that bassist who likes to switch up their playing styles and is looking for a strap that can do that while being durable and long-lasting. The additional comfort and mobility it offers is just a bonus.
Bottom Line
The perfect guitar strap is important for any guitarist, but when you are dealing with the heavier bass, it is especially important. Designed with attributes that help distribute weight more evenly and allow for extended wear; this bass strap is a great option that will enable the bassist hours of play without any extra stress on their shoulders.
Best Leather Guitar Strap:
Legato Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers of this model of guitar strap from Legato simply love the classy and durable leather construction. The design, which includes a wide strap and layered padding, makes for ultimate comfortability during long sessions. Though there are quite a few that report a strong smell upon opening.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The thing that stands out most to us is the high-quality leather used in the construction of this fantastic guitar strap. That, coupled with the overall design with its wide width and reinforced stitching, make this a classy and pleasing guitar strap.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great option for those guitarists that want a classy, durable guitar strap. The strap is designed with features and aspects that make it not only classy but super comfortable to wear for extended studio or showtimes.
Bottom Line
Classics are classics for a reason. That is why this fine example of leather craftsmanship made it to our list. With high-quality leather and the attention to detail, this guitar strap is one that will make you feel like a rockstar.
Best Padded Guitar Strap:
KLIQ AirCell Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The biggest thing you will come to realize as you look at the reviews from guitarists that have recently purchased this guitar strap is that this design is a super comfortable option. Fitted with a padded strap and made with lightweight materials this strap is one of the best guitar straps out there. That is if you listen to the customers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The custom-designed padded strap makes this a super comfortable option that works to distribute the weight and give better mobility for more extended play. That is why we chose this as one of the best guitar straps.
Who Will Use This Most
Guitarists that have shoulder or back problems would get the most out of this strap. With its attention to ultimate comfort, this strap from KLiQ is also great for the guitarist that works long hours in the studio.
Bottom Line
If you have issues with back and shoulder problems, then opting for this as your go-to guitar strap could alleviate a lot of those problems. Designed to be comfortable for long hours, this strap is not the only function but cool to look at as well.
Best Locking Guitar Strap:
Planet Waves Planet Lock Guitar Strap
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most reviews rave about how well built the locking system is and how it allows for less movement once set in the perfect spot. This model of the strap is easy to attach and offers a wide range of versatility when it comes to overall length.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Just like with recent customers, we feel that the advanced locking system is the thing that stands out the most.
Who Will Use This Most
The locking system helps keep the guitar strap right where you want it, and that means that it will benefit those guitarists that need the most mobility. This means guitarists that do a lot of stage performances while riding the road sharing their music with masses of fans.
Bottom Line
In the end, having a locking system that helps maintain your preferred length and helps with decreased slippage is a great tool to have in your arsenal. Especially when you want to rock out across the stage.
Why Should I Get a New Guitar Strap?
There are many benefits to buying the right new guitar strap. Below we will break down the three main benefits of having a good guitar strap.
Ergonomics
Guitars are not light, and that means if you plan to play for any length of time, you will be putting stress not only on your arms but your back as well. With the strap attached, you will be distributing the weight evenly and decreasing the strain on your body.
Adjustable
With the adjustability quotient, you as the player will be able to adjust according to the need of play. Sometimes you may want more access to certain parts of the fretboard, and by having the ability to distribute that weight and customize the length of your strap, you will add more playability to your musical stylings.
Mobility
Lastly, you will be able to move more freely around the studio or stage. If you must sit with that guitar on your knees, you will not be able to connect as much with your audience or the music, and that could affect your performance.
How to Attach Guitar Straps
There are a few things to take into consideration when it comes to this task. The first is, does your guitar have guitar pegs? If it does, then you simply slip the hole at the corresponding end of the strap over the button and you are set. All that’s left is to adjust to your taste.
Now, some acoustics only comes with one button at the bottom of the body, and so how do you attach a guitar strap to that?
Here are a couple of brief steps:
- First, attach the end with the hole to the one-button available after fully extending the strap.
- Then take some strong cord and thread it through the hole on the other end of the strap. Tying it firmly.
- Then feed the cord under the strings and through the area just above the fretboard and the tuning key.
- Tie the strap to this area with a firm knot, and you are set to go.
Be sure to check out the video below for a more comprehensive look at this process:
Conclusion
Finding the right guitar strap can be just as important as the amp, the pedal, or even the guitar itself. Though many may disagree, being able to play for extended lengths and to create a style of play is a part of a musician’s advancement in the industry. So, we hope that with this knowledge, you feel more adept in making the right choice for you and your guitar playing needs.
People Also Ask
There are questions everyone has and so in order to make sure you are armed with the most knowledge possible we gathered together a few of the most commonly asked questions here for you.
How Wide Are Guitar Straps?
The typical standard measurement of guitar straps ranges from 2” to 4”. The width you need is determined by how heavy the instrument you are playing and your ultimate comfort.
What Are Guitar Straps Made Of?
There are many materials that you can find in a guitar strap, but there are just a few that are the most common. This may be the most important part of the choice of which guitar strap you are going with. The four primary materials used are:
- Nylon
- Cotton
- Leather
- Memory Foam
How Long is an Average Guitar Strap?
There are guitar straps that range in length from 40” to 60”, which is the standard parameters. However, if you are a taller guitarist, you can find guitar straps that measure up to 70”.
Do Guitar Straps Fit All Guitars?
The basic guitar strap can be used on whatever guitar you have. There may be some extra steps that need to be taken when attaching due to the construction of the guitar, but they will work on any guitar. (See how to attach a guitar strap section above.)
