Best Overall Sax
Sax Neck Strap
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature: Easy Cleaning
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best Strap
Comfort
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Overall: 8.8/10
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Best Feature: Extra comfort around the neck
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TedScore™: 8.8/10
Best Budget Sax
Neck Strap
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Overall: 8/10
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Best Feature: Breathable material
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TedScore™: 8/10
Choosing the right saxophone neck strap can make a real difference in your playing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced saxophonist, comfort and security are crucial.
Picture no more neck pain and confidently securing your sax during intense performances. I’ve explored various options and gathered the best straps available. We’ll look at handmade, leather, padded, and stylish designs that offer comfort and convenience.
Are you ready to find the perfect companion for your musical journeys? Let’s make your saxophone playing more enjoyable and pain-free!
What is a Saxophone Neck Strap and Why is it Important?
A saxophone neck strap is an adjustable strap used to secure a saxophone around the neck of the musician.
Neck straps are typically made of leather, rubber, or padded material, and can come in various colours and designs. They’re important for providing comfort and support while playing the instrument, as well as helping you maintain good posture.
Unlike traditional strap-based instruments such as guitars, neck straps also provide additional support to the saxophone mouthpiece.
Besides comfort, they also offer sax players the option to add a bit of style or flair to their performances with various neck straps available in different designs and colours.
4 Features to Look For When Choosing the Best Sax Neck Strap
The Material
Several materials are used to make saxophone neck straps, including leather, neoprene, and genuine leather. Some saxophone straps are designed to reduce neck and shoulder pressure, while others are made to prevent the saxophone from bouncing.
Some straps feature an adjustable design with a Y-shaped strap, while others have a rubber-coated metal swivel snap for attaching the neck strap to the saxophone.
Neoprene straps are made from neoprene with a stretch backing and offer even weight distribution. These straps feel comfortable and lightweight, making it easier to perform longer sets without neck strain or pain.
The Padding
A good saxophone neck strap should feature slings with thick padding to relieve neck pressure and pain. Some straps have paddings covered with water-resistant ballistic nylon, which allows for more comfort and reduces the risk of direct spine pressure.
Other straps use a neoprene pad that offers extra comfort and support.
The Hooks
The hook of a good saxophone neck strap should be strong enough to support the instrument’s weight without sagging or causing damage.
This makes it easy to switch between instruments quickly and safely. Some straps feature a closed swivel hook design for extra security.
Others have an open hook that allows you to accessorize the neck strap with brooches, tassels, or badges for added style and customization.
Finally, handmade straps often have two metal hanger rings for carrying other accessories. These handy add-ons make it easier to carry discrete items such as keys or snacks while out and about playing saxophone.
The Price
When it comes to buying a good neck strap, you want to make sure you spend your money wisely.
It’s essential to consider the price of the saxophone neck strap, along with its other features, before making your purchase. You can search online for reviews and comparisons of saxophone neck straps to help you narrow down your options.
Our Top Pick for the Best Saxophone Neck Straps
Easy-to-Adjust Strap: Rico Padded Saxophone Strap
The Rico Padded Saxophone Strap is designed for saxophonists to provide extra comfort on your neck with its plush memory foam padding. It’s covered in breathable material to keep you dry and comfortable during long gigs.
The strap features a durable plastic snap hook or a curved metal hook connector, which stays securely on your instrument without scratching it.
FEATURES:
*Padded with memory foam and covered with a breathable material
*Curved metal hook connector makes inserting and removing easier
Rico Padded Saxophone Strap, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Quick-adjust slider for simple, precise length adjustments
- Uses a cord that's much less cumbersome than webbing Cons:
- Some users may find it a little too bulky
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Ergonomic Fit Strap: Rinastore Saxophone Strap Genuine Leather Sax Neck Strap
With its 100% genuine leather double-layered construction, Rinastore’s quality neck strap makes you feel at ease. The rope that connects the leather can withstand more than 66lb.
Also, most saxophones, English horns, bass clarinets, oboes, and bassoons are compatible with the strap.
FEATURES:* Made with soft and breathable leather
*Thick neck padding relieves neck pressure and pain
*With an ergonomic design and secure fit
Rinastore Saxophone Strap Genuine Leather Sax Neck Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- An ergonomic saxophone neck strap that effectively reduces sweat and relieves neck pressure
- Gives a high level of comfort
- Relatively short for tall people
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Easy-to-Install Strap: Xinlink Professional Black Leather Saxophone Strap
Made with the added benefit of a durable plastic snap hook, you can trust that your saxophone will stay secure while you play. The soft padded material means that it’s easy on your shoulders, perfect for professional players who spend long hours practising or performing.
FEATURES: *Fully adjustable
*Harness-type design straps spread the load out onto the shoulders rather than the neck
*Made of soft padded material very comfortable for the shoulder
Xinlink Professional Black Leather Saxophone Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- It can be easily installed and removed with a durable metal snap hook
- Size mostly fits only men
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best in Durability Strap: Neotech Soft Sax Strap
Made with neoprene and a control-stretch backing, this innovative design can greatly reduce the weight and strain of heavy instruments. If comfort is your top priority, the Soft Sax Strap, with its patented weight-reduction system is definitely worth trying out!
FEATURES: *Swivel hook design to carry a large load
*Neoprene material for long-lasting durability
*Wide bearing for an even weight distribution
Neotech Soft Sax Strap, Regular, Swivel Hook, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Offers comfort to performing musicians
- With a 533mm maximum length suitable for standard use
- Some users claim that the neck strap and elastic webbing behind it may stretch over time
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best for Lightweight Strap: Protec NC310M Saxophone Strap
This top-of-the-line strap features a premium leather neck pad and a strong metal hook for durability and comfort. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a high-quality sax strap that will provide both comfort and reliability with its easy-grip length adjustment and comfortable neoprene padding.
FEATURES: * Neoprene neck pad offers comfort while wicking moisture
*Durable construction for peace of mind
*Lightweight and can fold and fit into accessory and sheet music pockets of sax cases
Protec NC310M Saxophone Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Won't stretch over time
- Available in three sizes
- The metal hook can be a bit heavy for some users
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Most Secure Strap: Adorence Padded Saxophone Neck Strap
This strap is designed to be tough while also being extremely comfortable. All of the strap’s hooks and adjusters are made of metal. This neck strap is not only secure and stable, it will also not slip and lower while you play. Plus, the straps’ suspension system can be adjusted to your specific needs and playing style.
FEATURES: *Built with a removable neck pad for easy cleaning
*Has an ergonomic comfortable fit around the neck and an adjustable suspension system
Adorence Padded Saxophone Neck Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A fantastic design that has lots of padding
- Metal clips and hooks with rubber protectors keep them safe, secure, and long-lasting
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Premium Strap: Balam Premium Saxophone Strap
Made of high-quality, genuine leather with elegant brass hardware, this strap combines the best of both worlds – the comfort and adjustability of a harness, and the ease of use of a strap. Additionally, the innovative design of the Balam Premium Strap places pressure solely on your shoulders, avoiding any uncomfortable contact with your neck.
FEATURES:* Made of premium full-grain leather straps with classic antiqued cast brass fixtures
*Design to utilise two Aluminium strips which can be shaped to suit the player’s physique
Balam Premium Saxophone Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Adjustable for all body types
- Includes a velvet travel bag
- More expensive compared to other sax neck straps on the market
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best for Beginner Strap: BG A and T Saxophone Comfort Strap
The BG Comfort Strap has a unique design that evenly distributes the instrument’s weight across your neck. This strap provides more surface area for your neck, creating a comfortable position even during long practices or performances. It also helps to reduce strain on the neck muscles while you practice and play.
FEATURES:* Designed for use with alto and tenor saxophones
*Cotton neck pad
BG A and T Saxophone Comfort Strap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Sturdy, durable strap
- You may want to upgrade from plastic swivel hooks
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Padded Strap: Protec A305P Padded Saxophone Strap
This strap features a velour-padded neck pad that provides extra comfort while playing your instrument. The strong nylon webbing is covered in a breathable material, adding durability and convenience to the product. Plus, the patented quick-release clip protects your saxophone and makes the strap easy to handle.
FEATURES: *Made from nylon webbing, providing extra comfort around the neck
*Comes with a plastic swivel snap
Protec A305P Padded Saxophone Strap, 24 Plastic Snap
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes with a quick adjustment mechanism
- Increases comfort and stays dry
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
How to Properly Wear and Adjust a Sax Neck Strap for Comfort and Balance
If you’re tired of experiencing pain and discomfort from many neck straps when playing your saxophone, make sure to follow these steps to properly wear and adjust your sax neck strap for maximum comfort, performance and balance.
First, it’s important to avoid lifting the horn with your right thumb, as this can lead to wrist pain. Instead, adjust the strap to a comfortable height and put the weight of the sax on your shoulders and traps, rather than your neck.
For added comfort, consider investing in a non-padded sax neck strap that’s super comfortable and wide. Also, consider using a strap or harness to make your instrument feel up to 50% lighter and 100% more comfortable.
When adjusting the strap, ensure the saxophone rests against the outside of your right thigh, to provide proper balance and posture.
If you’re having trouble finding a comfortable set-up that covers all three of your saxes, don’t worry! Experiment with different straps and harnesses until you find one that suits your needs.
If you experience neck pain when using a neck strap, try adjusting the length of it to relieve some of the pressure.
Remember to avoid lowering the horn too much, as this can lead to issues with playing and balance. By investing in a high-quality, comfortable strap or harness and experimenting with different setups, you can enjoy pain-free playing for years to come.
Best Saxophone Neck Strap
Summary
Finding the right saxophone neck strap can make all the difference in your playing experience. Whether you’re just starting in jazz or an experienced saxophonist, investing in a saxophone neck strap is essential to maintain your instrument’s safety and stability.
They make the instrument easier to carry and prevent neck, shoulder, and back pain caused by weight and pressure on the arms. A perfect strap helps support the instrument’s weight while allowing the hands to be accessible for playing.
Straps are lightweight and come in various designs and sizes, so you can pick the one that best suits your needs. Comfort and support are key, and some great options exist.
We hope these tips help you choose your new neck strap for the best playing experience. Remember, a well-fitted and comfortable strap reduces strain and enhances your performance.
Happy saxing!
And before you leave, take a look at our new article Best Saxophone Reeds
This analysis sparkles with insight, yet I find myself pondering the deeper implications of how one’s choice of saxophone strap speaks to their philosophical outlook on music and life. The choice between aesthetics and practicality, the delicate balance between cost and durability, and how these decisions reflect upon our values and beliefs. It’s a microcosm, really, of the human condition, played out through the seemingly mundane selection of a saxophone strap.
hey, got a question bout the easy-to-install one. does it really make a big diff? im new to this and all these options kinda overwhelm me lol. but ur guide’s cool, makes it a bit easier to understand all this sax stuff.
Is there a significant difference in comfort between leather and synthetic straps?
Love how detailed your guide is, Hannah Haefele! Picking the right sax neck strap is something my students often struggle with, and your article nails down the essentials brilliantly. The ergonomic fit strap sounds like a winner for those long practice sessions. I’m definitely recommending this read to my band class. It’s refreshing to see someone pay attention to such an often overlooked yet crucial aspect of playing the saxophone.
Anyone got personal experience with the Balam Premium Strap? Been eyeing that but wanna know if it’s worth the splurge.
Right? My neck’s been killing me with my current strap, gonna try that Rinastore one.