If you want to understand how to choose the right banjo strap, we recommend you pick a comfortable strap. The banjo strap you pick should be short or long enough.
The right banjo strap should position your banjo at the proper height. It will enhance your playability and confidence.
In this article, we will tell you all about the different banjo straps, how to choose one, tips for adjusting, banjo strap maintenance, care, and top picks on the market. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Different Types of Banjo Straps
Banjo straps are made of various types of materials. Some popular types of banjo straps are:
- Leather Banjo Straps:
- Leather banjo straps are the best choice for banjos.
- No metal-on-metal sound is produced when a leather banjo strap is attached to the banjo.
- Leather straps are the best choice for beginners.
- They are budget-friendly.
- These straps are strong and fully adjustable.
- Suede Banjo Straps:
- Suede banjo straps are stylish and comfortable.
- Suede banjo straps offer long-lasting comfort and a seamless playing experience.
- These straps come with non-slipping padding.
- They are made to last for years.
- They come with sheepskin cushion padding.
- Nylon Banjo Straps:
- Nylon banjo straps are made with high-quality fabric.
- You can attach nylon banjo straps with non-marring clips.
- It offers maximum comfort for long playing sessions.
- They safely attach to the banjo with no risks of damage or scratches.
- Polyester Banjo Straps:
- Polyester banjo straps come in interesting designs.
- They are very durable.
- They are a great value-for-money option.
- They can be conveniently adjusted for the best comfort.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Banjo Strap
Here are a few factors you must keep in mind to choose the right banjo strap:
- Make sure that the strap you pick is best suited for your banjo.
- Take note of your banjo hook and the rim to determine if you need a cradle strap.
- Choose a banjo strap that is meant for your model.
- Avoid banjo straps with metal parts. Such parts could scrape the finish of your banjo.
- If you have a heavy banjo, then consider investing in a banjo strap with padding. The padded banjo strap is wider. Such straps can distribute the banjo weight on the body easily.
- The durability of the straps equally matters. Choose leather straps because they offer durability. Leather straps can easily mold and soften.
Tips for Properly Adjusting and Fitting Your Banjo Strap
Here are a few tips you can follow for properly adjusting or fitting your banjo strap:
- Ensure there is space between the head tension bracket hooks.
- Position the banjo in your lap. This will prevent the neck from facing right up. The neck should represent the 12 o’clock position.
- Thread the strap beneath the banjo neck. Search for the hooks alongside the banjo. Thread one strap through the hook that is lying at the 2 o’clock position of your banjo. Then, through the next three hooks moving away from the banjo neck.
- Thread the other end of the strap under the banjo tailpiece.
- Place the strap of the banjo over the neck.
- Tie the end together.
Banjo Strap Maintenance and Care
When cleaning or maintaining, washing a banjo strap in a washing machine is safe. It is not completely safe for some banjo straps, but you can do it.
The safest and best way to maintain your banjo strap is to clean it with your hands. This will ensure your woven banjo strap is in the right condition post-washing.
Clean a leather banjo strap using soap and hot water on the underside. You can scrub gently to remove some dirt and odor. You can use leather conditioner or body lotion on the underside.
You can use a rag or a soft cloth to rub any excess lotion. Avoid doing so on any custom-printed part of your banjo strap.
Lastly, you can use a leather polish to make it shiny. You can also use a leather spray to protect it from moisture or sun.
Top Picks: Best Banjo Straps on the Market Today
Some of the top picks on the market right now are:
- Genuine Leather Strap: One of the best banjo strap is a classic style genuine leather strap. It is comfortable and beautiful. The outside is made of cotton. The inside is made of genuine leather, ABS accessories, and cotton. The strap is adjustable. It comes with two pieces of strap lockers.
You should buy the leather strap because it is made of beautiful soft leather. The strap does not scratch the instrument. It is strong and sturdy. It offers good comfort for heavy banjo players.
- Neotech Super Banjo Strap: Neotech Super Banjo strap offers weight reduction comfort. It disperses the weight to absorb the shock of your body movements. It uses strong side-release buckles. It creates a secure hold and is fully adjustable. It is easy to attach and very durable.
Neotech Super Banjo strap is well-padded and distributes the Banjo weight very well. It comes with a handy arrangement. It is very durable. Most important, it won’t damage your banjo.
Conclusion
The right strap should be the one that is comfortable and suits your need for the short or the long one. A right strap should position your banjo at the perfect height and should be able to uplift your confidence.
The most anticipated choices for the banjo strap are leather, suede, nylon, and polyester. Leather straps are one of the best choices as they are durable and soft.
Remember to avoid those straps with the metal parts as they might look aesthetic, but they will scrape your banjo.
If your banjo is on the heavier side, then you should go for the padded strap.
The best way to take care of your banjo strap is to clean it with your hands, ensuring its good condition and long life. You can also buy a personalized banjo strap or a clip-on banjo strap.
FAQs
1. What is the best strap for a banjo?
MUSIC FIRST Genuine Leather Strap and Neotech Super Banjo Strap are the most popular choices.
2. Can you use a guitar strap for a banjo?
Yes, you can use a guitar strap for a banjo. They are much easier to find. Just remove two of the bracket hook. Run them through the holes of the strap.
