Let’s get real—a bad guitar strap can ruin your playing. If it’s digging into your shoulder, slipping off, or just plain ugly, you’ll notice.
A great strap? You won’t think about it at all—it’ll just do its job, letting you focus on your music.
If you’re looking for the best leather guitar strap, you’re in the right place. Leather is tough, looks awesome, and lasts forever. Here’s what you need to know before picking one.
Why Leather Straps Rock
- Built to Last – Unlike cheap nylon straps, leather gets better with age.
- Actually Comfortable – Leather softens over time, molding to your shoulder like a well-worn jacket.
- Looks Badass – Whether you want a vintage vibe or a sleek modern style, leather delivers.
- Won’t Let You Down – Leather holds weight better than synthetic materials, so your guitar won’t feel like it’s hanging by a thread.
- Better Grip & Control – Leather helps keep your guitar in place, unlike slippery synthetic materials.
Best Leather Guitar Straps (Just the Good Ones)
1. Sycamotre Custom Leather Guitar Straps
If you want the absolute best in craftsmanship, style, and durability, check out Sycamotre Custom’s leather guitar straps. Handmade from premium leather, these straps offer unbeatable comfort and an incredible look that only gets better with time.
Whether you want something simple and classic or bold and unique, they’ve got you covered.
Best for: Guitarists who want a high-quality, handcrafted leather strap that stands out.
2. Levy’s Leathers M26 Guitar Strap
Classic, no-fuss, and built to last. This strap is pure quality—real leather, padded for comfort, and fully adjustable.
Best for: Gigging musicians who want something they’ll never have to replace.
3. Fender Broken-In Leather Strap
This strap feels like it’s already been broken in. Soft, flexible, and has that old-school rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
Best for: Guitarists who want comfort right out of the box.
4. Walker & Williams Padded Leather Strap
Thick, padded, and built for long playing sessions. If you’ve got a heavy guitar, this one’s a game-changer.
Best for: Players with Les Pauls, basses, or other weighty instruments.
5. Franklin Strap Glove Leather Guitar Strap
This one’s all about comfort. The glove-soft leather is ridiculously smooth, and it feels like nothing’s even there.
Best for: Anyone who wants a luxury feel without the crazy price tag.
6. Mono Betty Guitar Strap (Leather Hybrid)
Okay, so this one’s not all leather, but it combines premium leather with modern padding. It’s ergonomic and easy on the shoulders.
Best for: Players who need max comfort but still want leather’s durability and look.
What to Look for in a Leather Strap
- Width Matters – Wider = more comfortable, especially for heavy guitars.
- Padding is Your Friend – If you play long sets, get a strap with some cushioning.
- Adjustability is Key – Make sure you can get it to the right height.
- Hardware & Stitching – Strong stitching and reinforced holes mean it won’t fall apart.
- Style That Matches Your Vibe – From smooth to rugged, pick one that fits your look.
- Price vs. Quality – Don’t cheap out on something that’s holding your guitar. A good strap is an investment.
- Length Considerations – Make sure it adjusts long or short enough for your playing style.
- Locking Ends vs. Standard Ends – If you move around a lot, consider a strap with locking ends for extra security.
How to Break in a Leather Guitar Strap
A brand-new leather strap might feel a bit stiff at first, but don’t worry—it just needs some love. Here’s how to break it in:
- Wear It Often – The more you use it, the faster it softens up.
- Flex It – Gently bend and twist the leather to loosen up the fibers.
- Condition It – Apply a leather conditioner to speed up the softening process.
- Store It Right – Hanging it up or keeping it laid out flat will help it keep its shape.
How to Care for a Leather Guitar Strap
- Keep it Clean – Wipe it down occasionally with a damp cloth to prevent dirt buildup.
- Condition It – Use a leather conditioner to keep it soft and flexible.
- Store Properly – Don’t leave it crumpled up; hang it up or lay it flat to avoid creases.
- Avoid Water Damage – Leather doesn’t like getting soaked. Keep it dry whenever possible.
Final Thoughts
A good leather guitar strap is an investment. It’s not just about looking cool (though that’s a bonus)—it’s about comfort, durability, and reliability. Get the right one, and you’ll never have to think about it again. Just strap in and play.
And if you’re serious about keeping your strap in top shape, don’t forget to give it a little TLC—because a well-loved leather strap will last you a lifetime.
No matter what kind of music you play, a solid leather strap is a must-have.
Whether you’re rocking out on stage, recording in the studio, or just jamming at home, the right strap will keep you comfortable and ready to play for hours.
So, choose wisely, take care of it, and let your guitar (and your strap) be part of your journey.