How to choose the right guitar strap?
Choosing the right guitar strap
Guitarists need straps to carry their guitars during a performance. But you still have to choose it well to enjoy a long moment of comfort with your acoustic guitar or electric guitar on your shoulder. Today, the needs of each player depend on various criteria. There are those who want an accessory that matches their outfit. And some prefer personalized models to be fashionable and for more fun.
While the straps available on the market come in thousands of styles, you should definitely consider investing in a model suitable for your needs.
What are the selection criteria to consider?
You must not make a mistake when choosing your guitar strap. Yes, it’s about longevity, comfort, and ergonomics. It is therefore important to pay major attention to this accessory so appreciated by soloists during Rock, punk, pop, heavy metal, etc. performances.
A solid body guitar or authentic acoustic models can sometimes weigh a bit heavy during hours of concert. The strap will then make your life easier. In addition, it provides that freedom of play that only guitarists are capable of feeling, especially when standing.
A list of selection criteria is provided below:
- The quality of the manufacturing material:
A leather guitar strap is highly sought after for its good grip on stage. During a rock show or other music styles, the guitarist playing solo will sweat a lot. It is clear that your guitar will slip if you wear an entry-level nylon strap. With a variety of leather straps, the slightly rough models are the best choice in all circumstances: from a small Christmas concert to a big hot show. Some brands also offer a polypropylene strap model. It is also a good alternative for spending pleasant moments in concert.
- The choice of cut:
Here, we are talking about the comfort of carrying your guitar. As already indicated above, a Solid Body electric guitar is very heavy, from 3 kg to 4 kg or even more. So, you absolutely must choose a leather strap that is capable of balancing the weight on your shoulder to avoid lumbar problems at the end of the concert. A small neoprene or other material padding at the shoulder level is also highly recommended. This helps to absorb the weight on the shoulder.
For lighter guitars, such as an acoustic guitar, a flat leather strap will do the trick. There are also stylish, but less comfortable, thin strap models.
- The width of the strap:
An ergonomic strap should measure between 5 to 8 cm wide. This is also the standard size for a guitar strap. If your strap is too thin, it will leave an unpleasant mark on your shoulders. A strap or shoulder strap with an imposing width is therefore the right choice of strap for your guitar. It effectively attenuates and distributes the weight over a large area of your shoulder.
- Adjustable length:
Choose an adjustable guitar strap for more ergonomic use. This type of strap suits most guitarists, whether short or tall. In this case, it is possible to choose the length of the strap yourself. Some soloists love to play down to knee level. This strap model can therefore serve you on other guitars if you have to change guitars in the middle of a show.
- The strap attachment method:
A variety of strap attachment systems now exist on the guitar accessories market. You can then choose the best attachment according to the circumstances of use of your guitar strap.
For dynamic playing with jumping movements here and there, a guitar strap equipped with “straplocks or securitylocks” is recommended. This type of fastening consists of holding the strap on the guitar with a clip to secure your guitar. It is nevertheless essential to know that this fastening system requires a specific installation. You must absolutely remove the strap button already mounted on your guitar. This process is quite delicate, but rather ultra practical for gaining more protection. However, another option also exists with a less laborious fastening model like Fender’s Strap Block. It’s a kind of rubber locking ring from the brand. It allows the strap to be immobilized by tightening it onto the strap button. This is notably the least expensive and also practical solution.
Did you know that a guitar strap can also be stylish and personalized?
A strap perfectly adapted to your guitar is the best accessory to hold your guitar on your shoulder. But, you can also personalize your strap according to your preference. From a subjective point of view, a guitar strap can bring more than just an accessory for carrying your guitar. It’s the stylish and unique look on stage.
Nowadays, several guitarists are starting to personalize their strap to their image. Some opt for the gothic style. They adorn their strap with skull or skeleton motifs. Mexican style enthusiasts add Santa Muerte prints to their strap. Women can also opt for straps with softer designs like rose or fuchsia.
Furthermore, it is also advisable to match your strap with your outfit, your instruments, your band, or the theme of the show. A strap is also available in several materials easy to personalize such as cotton, linen, hemp, or felt. These strap models are, among other things, equipped with a leather end for durability and robustness of use. Leather prints are also available to benefit from a strap that is both resistant and stylish.