• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

What is your favorite bass strap?

It was time to reorganize my music room this past week... a small part of the plan was to order another extra set of s-lock strap buttons so I can hang my straps straight while not using them. One strap set longer is for 3 basses shown that aren't the shorty SX P bass, the other is for 3 guitars.

The shorty SX P has a bright pink D'Addario nylon strap, the white coil cord... and a 40 watt (2x 6L6) tube head into a Bag End D12-B (with her pink Dragon on it)... my 9 year old daughter has FINALLY started to ask me to show her how to play it.
IMG_20240625_111322638.jpg
 
I just got my Bass (Squier Classic Vibe '70s Precision) and need a strap. Some are labeled "Bass Strap". Why would a bass strap be any different than a guitar strap?
Some are wider and some are also padded. Bass players tend to gravitate to those specs for a strap so they market them as bass straps. Just pick one that is comfortable for you.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dave615
The one I use most is the black leather strap in the middle, I have used it since the 1980s, it is very comfortable and worn in just right; I use it with my Jazz Bass. The brown leather strap was made by the lead guitarist in my band, leather work is one of his hobbies; I use it with the basses with Schaller strap locks. As for the Fender strap, it is a spare, I bought it simply because I had one just like it when I was starting on bass in the early 1980s.

20240910_103736.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: StevieMac
Thanks for the referecne to Walker & Williams - I bought an all-leather strap for $32 shipped. Try to find that kind of deal on eBay...

I have a W & W strap that is breaking in nicely. I'd love to hear how you like this one. This one looks like it adjusts easily too. Mine is the slots and tail piece that I have to puzzle to adjust every time. Good luck!
 
Well, my favorite bass strap is this Levys Poly Sunset Strap 2" (51mm) :
1726570831512.png
1726570888819.png


Love how it looks.

But I use this on an extremely light bass.

To answer OP's actual question, I'd recommend this Harley Benton Wide Leather Padded Strap, which I personally use for my heavier basses :
1726570496322.png


Specs:
  • Material: Suede
  • With 6 mm (0.24") memory-foam velvet padding across the strap's entire length
  • Width: 85 mm (3.35")
  • Length adjustable from 105 to 150 cm (41.34" to 59.1")
Thomann sells it, and it is quite cheap too.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: Stronglori
I'd like to change my previous vote, as for several past months I have a new favourite strap.

I've got two Franklins several months ago, their original one and their economy line Purist Suede. at first sight I loved the original and thought, the economy one is sub-par (rough feeling lining, edges and just doesn't feel as refined, also very sticky on bare sweaty skin). but after some time wearing in, I now use the economy one, as it's become incredibly comfortable for me and it seems like I prefer the leather back for the times, I don't need to combat the neck dive.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Thumper
Hands down my favorite straps come from https://reverb.com/ca/shop/well-hung-guitar-accessories

Here's my current lineup:
1000052939.jpg


But he had made me many others as can be seen from my profile pic.

These are by far the most comfortable guitar straps I have come across and I have tried many because of my messed up shoulder. They're not only the most comfortable but they look fantastic, they are very well made, custom work can be done at request, and he uses a multitude of patterns and fabrics to anybody's liking. Highly recommend!
 
Took a pic tonight...

Both my straps are leather Levy straps. One came from my friend and is almost brand new in black Suede. The one on the left is my padded 45 year old Levy's leather strap that I still use to this day. Very comfortable...though a little worn.

Levy-Strap.jpg
I'll have to check out the suede. Didn't know they made that. I've got one if their padded straps. It's comfy but feels a bit bulky. Also, a bit of a squeeze to shove in a gig bag.
 
  • Like
Reactions: M-Mittlesteadt