Basic Information About Buying a Guitar Strap

If you own a guitar, having a guitar strap is a necessity. Most guitars come with an inexpensive strap, but maybe you feel ready to select one of your own. If you've been playing awhile at this point, you have probably found some things about your original strap that you don't like. This guide will help you select the ideal strap for your needs.

 

As you read over the following paragraphs, you will learn about some of the issues that you ought to take into consideration as you browse for the perfect guitar strap. Some of these topics may not apply to you, but that's okay. The important thing is for you to start thinking about shopping for guitar straps like a pro.

 

What Strap Width Is the Most Appropriate For Me?

 

Different guitar players require different widths of guitar straps. In order to figure out which width is the best choice for you, you'll probably want to try on guitar straps that fall into several different categories. Narrow guitar straps tend to be best suited to thin musicians who play lightweight guitars. Narrow straps simply aren't designed to support the weight of a larger instrument.

 

The vast majority of guitarists choose straps that are somewhere between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 inches wide. These provide ample support for almost all instruments, both electric and acoustic, without being uncomfortable on the shoulder. Some people, however, prefer straps as wide as 3 inches. This is why you need to test multiple options to determine what works for you.

 

Do I Have a Preference in Regard to Material?

 

A variety of different materials can be used to create high-quality guitar straps. Every guitarist has an opinion on which material is the best. Many prefer leather guitar straps, as they hold-up well for years and years. Others, though, like cotton straps because they are both affordable and highly customizable. You should test straps made out of multiple materials before you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.

 

How Much Money Do I Want to Pay?

 

Guitar straps can range in price from just a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Thus, the type of strap you ultimately end-up buying is likely to be dictated largely by your budget. If you don't have much to spend, for instance, you may purchase a nylon strap. If, however, money is no object, a fully personalized leather strap might be in your future.