Best
Acoustic Guitar Strap
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Overall: Durable and long-lasting
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Best Feature: Adjustable to fit your body and playing style
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Electric Guitar Strap
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Overall: Made by D'Addario, a trusted name in guitar accessories
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Best Feature: Stylish design adds a personal touch to your performance
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Classical Guitar Strap
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Overall: Provides a comfortable and secure fit for your instrument.
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Best Feature: Durable nylon material
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TedScore™: 9/10
It’s time to rock out! Whether a beginner or an experienced musician, putting on a guitar strap is essential for playing your instrument comfortably.
In this article, we’ll look at how to put on a guitar strap step-by-step. We’ll also explain the different straps available and advise on ensuring your strap is adequately secured.
What Is a Guitar Strap?
A guitar strap is an accessory that hangs from the end of the guitar, over your shoulder and around your back. It keeps the instrument in place while you play it standing up.
The strap attaches to two pins at the end of the guitar’s body and can be made from various materials, including nylon, suede, leather and metal. There are straps for both acoustic and electric guitars.
The Importance of Strap Locks
Strap locks are an essential part of guitar maintenance. They’re designed to keep your strap securely attached to the guitar body and prevent it from slipping off, which could cause you to drop the instrument!
Strap locks come in two parts: a button that attaches to the strap and another inserted into one of two holes on the guitar’s body.
A strap pin, also known as a guitar strap button, is the metal piece that attaches your instrument’s strap to the guitar’s body. It typically consists of a cylindrical pin that screws into the guitar’s body and a button-shaped top that clips into the strap.
Strap locks are an essential addition to any guitar setup. They provide extra security, making it less likely for your strap to come unclipped, and they also make it easier for you to switch between playing stances or move around with the instrument when needed.
Choosing the Right Guitar Strap
Finding the right guitar strap can make a big difference in your playing experience as a guitarist. A comfortable, supportive strap can help you play for longer periods without fatigue, while a poorly designed strap can lead to discomfort and even injury. Below are key factors to consider when choosing a guitar strap.
Material & padding
The material and padding of a guitar strap are crucial to its comfort and durability. The most common materials for guitar straps include leather, nylon, and polyester. Leather straps are durable and provide a classic look, but they can be more expensive. Nylon and polyester straps are lightweight and affordable but may not be as durable as leather.
Padding is also important for comfort, especially if you play for long periods. Look for straps with thick padding to help distribute the weight.
Width
The width of your guitar strap can also impact comfort and support. A wider strap will distribute the weight of your guitar more evenly across your shoulder, reducing strain and fatigue. Generally, straps between 2-4 inches in width are recommended for most guitarists.
Aesthetic
While comfort and support should be your primary considerations when choosing a guitar strap, there’s no denying that aesthetics can also play a role. Guitar straps come in various styles, colours, and patterns, so you can find one that complements your style and guitar.
Some guitarists prefer simple, understated straps that don’t distract attention from their playing. Others prefer bold, eye-catching designs that make a statement. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what makes you feel most comfortable and confident when playing.
How To Put A Strap On An Acoustic Guitar?
Acoustic guitars are popular instruments used by musicians all over the world. Attaching a strap to an acoustic guitar can be done in several ways, depending on your guitar type.
Putting a Strap On a Guitar with Two Pins
When putting on a guitar strap with two pins, the first step is to attach the strap’s hook to the top pin.
Then, slide the other end of the strap underneath the strings and hook it onto the lower pin. When attaching either end of the strap, ensure it is securely fastened so that your guitar doesn’t slip away while you are playing.
Once both ends of the strap are securely fastened, you can adjust it until you feel comfortable playing your instrument.
Generally, when attaching a guitar strap to an acoustic guitar with two pins, it should sit comfortably around shoulder height when standing up. However, this may vary from player to player, depending on body type and size.
Putting a Strap On a Guitar with One Pin
If your acoustic guitar has only one pin for attaching a guitar strap, this will require additional caution to prevent any damage from occurring as you try to attach your strap.
Start by slipping one end of the strap beneath all the strings and over its corresponding pin. Then using both hands carefully, hold the strings apart to slip the other end of your strap into place too.
Ensure that once this step is completed, both ends are securely attached so there won’t be any slips or accidents while playing!
Acoustic Guitar Without Pins
For those acoustic guitars without pins for straps (or if you just don’t want to use them), there’s another option available – threading nylon ties through small holes in either side of your headstock near where you would typically attach your straps.
Threading these ties through will help create secure loops, which can be used as anchor points for adding loops or clips to add a traditional style of guitar straps onto them.
You can find cheap kits online with everything you need – including proper instructions on threading them onto your instrument!
Our Recommended Acoustic Guitar Straps
There’s no better way to show off your style and make a statement with your acoustic guitar than with a fantastic guitar strap. Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite straps that will turn heads and make a statement.
DESIGNED FOR: For all level
FEATURES: Length: 41" to 72"
OTHER INFO: Polypropylene Webbing
Ernie Ball Polypro Strap, Brown
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!
- Durable and long-lasting
- Adjustable to fit your body and playing style
- Classic and timeless brown colour
- Sturdy leather end holds your guitar securely in place
- Cool and stylish Ernie Ball logo
- Some guitarists may prefer a wider strap for added comfort
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner guitarists, as well as experienced enthusiasts.
FEATURES: Made from high-quality nylon material, this comfortable and durable strap has fully adjustable lengths up to 130cm – perfect for all sizes.
OTHER INFO: One strap button
Guitar Strap by Gear4music, 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!
- This guitar strap is affordable
- Comfortable to Wear for Long Playing Sessions
- Simple and Sleek Design Complements Any Guitar
- Easy to Install and Remove
- Not Suitable for Heavy Guitars
- There are no dedicated padding points, so the strap may cause shoulder discomfort after a while.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Professional and Casual Use
FEATURES: Made with top grain leather and a 1/4'' of foam padding wrapped in garment leather.
OTHER INFO: ladder-style adjustment that ranges from 37'' to 51''.
Levy's 3" Top Grain Leather 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!
- Provides excellent support and stability for your guitar, reducing strain on your back and shoulders
- Made from high-quality materials that will stand up to heavy use and frequent gigs
- Adjustable length allows you to find the perfect fit for your body and playing style
- Classic black design complements any type of guitar and outfit
- 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 Put A Strap On An Electric Guitar?
If you’ve ever wanted to know how to put a strap on an electric guitar, the process is surprisingly simple with just a few materials. You only need two strap pins, a leather guitar strap, and, optionally, a strap adapter or guitar strings.
Most electric guitars have two strap buttons, one at the bottom of the guitar and one at the top of the guitar body.
Straps have a hole or loop at one end. Slide the hole or loop onto the bottom button to ensure it’s securely attached.
Adjust the length.
Once you’ve adjusted the length, slide the hole or loop on the other end of the strap onto the top button and make sure it’s securely attached.
Double-check everything.
Our Recommended Electric Guitar Straps
Our top three picks for electric guitar straps are the Stagg Nylon Guitar Strap 2”, the Gibson 2″ Woven Strap and the D’Addario Woven Guitar Strap. These options have excellent quality and style, supporting your instrument without sacrificing comfort.
DESIGNED FOR: Guitarists of all levels!
FEATURES: Length: 93cm-165cm
OTHER INFO: Material: Nylon
Stagg Nylon Guitar Strap 2'' 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!
- Comfortable and wide strap for added support
- Durable and long-lasting material
- Adjustable length for a customized fit
- Easy to use and attach to the guitar
- Easy to use and attach to the guitar
- Limited colour options for those who prefer more vibrant or unique designs
- No padding on the surface.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Musicians of any level
FEATURES: This strap is crafted with heavy-duty woven material and strong, secure ends that provide the quality you can count on.
OTHER INFO: This strap can be adjusted between 34.75" and 60.5" inches in length.
Gibson 2" Woven Strap with Red Gibson Logo
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!
- 2 inches wide for maximum support and comfort during long performances
- Robust and reliable for all types of performances
- Iconic Gibson logo adds professionalism to your look.
- The iconic red Gibson logo may not appeal to everyone.
- Too short for certain players
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: All Levels of Guitar Players
FEATURES: Adjustable from 35" - 59.5"
OTHER INFO: Retro Saugerties Design
D'Addario Woven Guitar Strap, Saugerties
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!
- Made by D'Addario, a trusted name in guitar accessories
- Stylish design adds a personal touch to your performance
- Durable and comfortable for extended playing sessions
- Adjustable length accommodates players of different sizes
- Some players complain about length.
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 Put A Strap On A Classical Guitar?
To put a strap on a classical guitar, buy an appropriate strap for the instrument.
First, place the strap loop around your neck.
Next, run the strap behind the guitar’s waist and hook it to the bottom of the soundhole.
When playing with a strap, support the guitar with one hand. This will help keep it from tipping forward or falling out of the strap.
Our Recommended Classical Guitar Straps
Most classical guitar straps have a loop to fit around the neck and an extra length that wraps around the waist of the instrument. We suggest trying out these straps for your classical guitar:
DESIGNED FOR: For all level
FEATURES: It features a non-marring soundhole hook.
OTHER INFO: Enhanced shoulder support provides hours of fatigue-free playing.
D'Addario Nylon Classical Guitar 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!
- This strap is adjustable to your preference
- Designed to avoid instrument damage
- Constructed from hard-wearing nylon.
- No padding for extra cushioning
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Musicians of All Levels
FEATURES: Nylon
OTHER INFO: 1" wide
Stagg Nylon Strap For Classical Guitar Or Ukulele
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!
- Durable nylon material
- Plastic sound-hole hook neck strap
- Provides a comfortable and secure fit for your instrument.
- Length adjustable with two easy-to-use buckles
- The shorter length may not be suitable for all players, particularly those with larger frames or who prefer a longer strap.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: For all level
FEATURES: Width at upper part: 1.45''
OTHER INFO: It has a soundhole hook, so you can easily attach it to your instrument without needing extra pins.
Ortega OGSHK-BK Nylon Guitar 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!
- Timeless black colour
- Adjustable
- Strong and durable.
- The length cannot be adjusted to over 1000mm (39 inches).
- Strap may be unsuitable for guitar players who prefer a more ornate or flashy design.
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™.
Tips on Adjusting the Strap
When adjusting the strap for a classical guitar:
Ensure it is tight enough to hold the instrument securely but not too tight to interfere with its sound.
Ensure that the strap is positioned in such a way that allows you to play comfortably without straining your neck or arms.
Use additional padding or spring-loaded clips to ensure the strap fits comfortably.
Finally, make sure there are no twists on the strap. This will ensure a comfortable playing position and prevent the guitar from sliding off or slipping away.
How To Put On A Guitar Straps
Summary
Putting on a guitar strap is an important skill to master for any instrument player. Ensure you get the right strap type for your guitar and that it fits securely and comfortably.
Adjust the length to fit you well, and don’t forget to use additional padding or clips if necessary.
Extra care can go a long way in increasing your comfort and improving your performance. With these tips, you’ll be ready to rock with the strap of your dreams!
And finally: If you’re wondering what other guitar accessories you should buy, take a look here.
