Something else that doesn’t get much attention.
Much like the guitar pick, the guitar strap gets very little press. However, it’s a pretty important piece of equipment. Let me explain.
A guitar strap is primarily used, when the performer is playing in a standing position and it comes in variety of shapes and sizes. This is the one piece of gear that connects the guitar to the player and keeps it from hitting the floor, should the performer release his or her grip on it. Now, it’s still possible to drop a guitar using a guitar strap and we will talk about that a little later in the article.
So, how do you choose the best guitar strap for your needs? Here are some considerations. The first one, is the type of guitar are you looking to support with the guitar strap. Is it for an acoustic guitar, an electric guitar or perhaps an electric bass? The type of guitar makes a big difference in the selection of an appropriate strap. An acoustic guitar is probably the lightest weight of the group and doesn’t take as much strength to support. A nylon guitar strap would be a good choice. Something like a Fender 2” polyester strap is an inexpensive option.
The next consideration is comfort, which is relative to the weight of the guitar versus the width of the strap. For example, a much heavier guitar, like a solid body electric is going to need more support for both you and the guitar. Going with a softer and wider strap, would provide more comfort when performing over longer periods of time. You might consider a Levy M17BSS-BRN 2.5” leather strap. If you are looking to support an electric bass, which is heavier still. A good choice might be a Levy DM1PD-BLK 3” wide leather guitar strap with padded interior https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DM1PDBLK--levys-dm1-3-inch-leather-face-with-padded-back-guitar-strap-black A step up would be a Levy MSS2 4-1/2” heavy padded extra wide strap.
The last consideration is style. Most major guitar brands have their own logoed guitar straps and if you’re like me, you’ll want the guitar strap to match the guitar. Which is why, I have guitar straps that match each of my guitar brands. In terms of material, I prefer soft leather. I like the look and feel of it as well as how it breaks in over time. Much like a good pair of shoes.
Now, if you are concerned about the strap slipping off the strap button of your guitar, you can purchase strap locks. These are mechanical devices that lock the strap to the guitar and require you to release them with a push button before the strap can be removed. For my electrics, I use Schaller S-Locks to secure my strap to the guitar. They are super heavy duty and durable. I do not use strap locks on my acoustics.
For such a simple device, the guitar strap deserves a lot more credit for all that it does. Have an awesome day.