Guitar Strap Guide How to Choose and Wear One

A strap is the cheapest piece of gear that decides whether you can play standing up for an hour. The right one spreads the weight, stays put and lets your hands do their job. Here is what matters.

Width and padding

A wide strap spreads weight across the shoulder. For a heavy electric guitar or a bass, look for two and a half to three inches of width and some padding. For a light acoustic or a ukulele, a slim strap is fine. Padding matters more than width for long sets.

Materials

• Leather. Soft, grippy and lasts for decades. Costs more and breaks in over time.
• Padded leather. The comfortable choice for heavy instruments.
• Woven and polypropylene. Light, affordable, available in every pattern. Easy to adjust.

Strap locks

A guitar falling off its strap is the most common way a guitar gets hurt. Strap locks replace the strap buttons with a set that clicks on and cannot slip off. The D'Addario universal strap lock fits most guitars without drilling.

How to set the height

Sit down with the guitar in your normal playing position and notice where it sits. Then stand up and adjust the strap until the guitar is at roughly the same height. That keeps your wrist angle the same sitting and standing, which is easier on your hands than a low slung strap.

Acoustic guitars with one strap button

Many acoustic guitars have a button at the tail but none at the neck. You can tie the strap to the headstock with the lace most straps include, or have a second button fitted. We can add one on the bench before your guitar ships. Ask when you order.

Keep it on the guitar

A strap that lives on the guitar means you pick it up and play. Pair it with a stand so the guitar is always within reach. See how to protect your guitar.

Browse straps and strap locks in accessories.