If you don’t want to sit down every time you play your instrument, the best ukulele strap can be a necessity. In this article, we’re looking at some of the top options and information on why you need a ukulele strap, plus how to choose the best option for you.
In a Hurry? Here Are the Best Ukulele Straps
Why Do I Need a Strap For My Ukulele?
A ukulele strap makes it much easier to play when standing up and walking around. You may be able to play a bit by gripping the ukulele tightly and putting your strumming arm underneath the body, but it won’t be as effective. Playing like this is clunky and can impact your playing technique.
A ukulele neck strap allows you to carry the weight around your neck and shoulders (obviously). Your arms are freed up for strumming and playing your instrument naturally. If you are transitioning to performances, you might need to stand up to inject some energy. A strap can be helpful.
Many people don’t realize that the traditional way to hold a ukulele doesn’t make use of a strap. The ukulele can be “pinned” to the body by holding it in the way outlined in this article. Though not traditional, most agree that a strap is a whole lot easier.
Do Ukuleles Come With Straps?
You might be looking for the best ukulele strap to buy at the same time as your ukulele. If you are buying your first uke, you will be pleased to know that a lot of options come with straps.
A ukulele strap is included in lots of the ukulele bundles that are aimed at beginners. It is one of the most vital accessories for a new player, along with spare strings, a case, and a tuner. Some beginner bundles include basic straps to get you started.
How Long Should a Ukulele Strap Be?
This is a bit of a trick question. People have different preferences when it comes to ukulele straps. Some people play their instruments high up and close to their chest, some people prefer an instrument low and near their waist.
This, combined with the fact that people come in all shapes and sizes, means it is hard to buy “one size fits all” straps. Instead, people tend to buy adjustable straps. Most of the ukulele straps on the market are adjustable.
Think of it light a belt, it has a maximum and minimum length, and you can adjust it until it is comfortable. Many straps are extremely adjustable. Some can alter from 28 inches to around 50 inches in length. You can change this based on what works for you, and where you would like to play your uke.
Because straps are adjustable, it doesn’t matter what size your ukulele is. An adjustable strap will fit. Many models are just as good for kids as they are for adults.
Where Do You Put The Straps On a Ukulele?
Many ukuleles come with a “button” on the end. This is usually a small piece of metal on the bottom of the instrument. The button allows you to hook your strap on the ukulele at one end. You can tie the other end around the neck of your instrument, just make sure it is not in the way of your strings.
This method of attaching straps is the same as a guitar. You have probably seen a guitar strap attached at the end of the instrument’s body.
Some people use straps in different ways. Ukuleles are different from guitars. There are some interesting ways to attach a strap even if you do not have a metal button.
If you are handy, you can drill a hole and attach a button yourself. If not, You should check out this guide to attaching a ukulele strap without having to make a hole. Some types of strap are specifically designed to hook onto your instrument without a metal button keeping them in place.
Ukulele Strap Designs and Materials
The strap is an option to express some of your personality. Most ukulele accessories are available in loads of different designs. A combination of leather and cotton tends to be used. You can find leather straps that are made totally out of leather, but these can be pricey.
The cotton that makes up most of the strap is usually where the designs are. You can choose from a variety of patterns including traditional Hawaiian designs to give that tropical vibe.
Cotton is also easy to pull through the loop system that most ukuleles have to ensure they are adjustable. Leather tends to be used at the ends to ensure the metal button doesn’t fray the strap.
Polyester and nylon are also used in some designs of ukulele strap.
Ukulele straps don’t tend to be expensive. You can buy multiples and use them as you please. Just make sure you check the reviews to see if the ukulele strap is well made. Your strap should be good enough to use for years without you having to worry about it fraying or breaking.
Best Ukulele Strap Reviews
1. CLOUDMUSIC Ukulele Strap Cotton Woven Seatbelt Strap – Best Ukulele Strap
CLOUDMUSIC makes a lot of different ukulele straps. We’ve included this on our list of the best because it is very simple but very effective. It is called a “seatbelt” strap because of the design. Obviously, it looks and feels like a seatbelt, and should be smooth on your neck when playing.
Pros:
- Material has a silky finish so it is comfy to wear, even for long periods of time.
- The microfiber leather ends are built to last.
- This is adjustable so you can fit it onto a variety of sizes of uke.
- Comes with a button so even if your ukulele doesn’t have one, you can install your own.
- Comes in four different colors.
Cons:
- The ends are a little on the large size. These can be tough for snugly fitting on your button or tying to the neck.
If you want a simple design for your ukulele strap, this could be a good option. It’s comfy and adjustable without being a statement design.
2. Clip On Ukulele Strap Black – Best for No Drilling
This strap can fit any ukulele and doesn’t need any button or holes to be drilled in order to attach it to your instrument. If you’ve bought a ukulele that doesn’t have a metal button for your strap, this could be a good choice.
The clever loop design may look different from the other straps, but it gives two different options for fitting around your neck or shoulder. Not everyone enjoys this design, but it may be the best option depending on your ukulele design.
Pros:
- No need to drill any holes or attach a button.
- Comes with a manual and video to show you how to suspend the ukulele around your neck.
- Comes with a free ukulele hanger and picks.
- Great for all different sizes of ukulele.
- Lifetime warranty included by the manufacturer.
Cons:
- Not everyone likes the feel of the ukulele strap all the way around their neck or shoulder.
A lot of the straps on our list are very similar, but the Clip-On Ukulele Strap Black gives a different option and allows you to avoid drilling a hole.
3. BestSounds Pineapple Ukulele Strap – Affordable Option
Most ukulele straps are relatively affordable and won’t break the bank, but if you are playing a cheap ukulele such as a beginner model, you might want to get the cheapest strap possible.
One of the cheapest options is the BestSounds Pineapple strap. Don’t get confused, pineapple relates to the design that the strap has, not that it only works with the pineapple shape of the ukulele. This strap can be used with all the different sizes of ukulele, tenor, soprano, concert and even baritone.
Pros:
- One of the cheapest options out there.
- Adjustable from 22.4″ to 42.5″, this is good for kids as it can be turned into a short option.
- Comes with a button that’s easy to install on your uke.
- Traditional Hawaiian design with pineapples.
- 60-day money-back guarantee offered by the manufacturer.
Cons:
- The polyester material isn’t as high quality as some of the other options.
This is a good budget model of ukulele strap, and it is also fantastic for kids as it can be as short as 22.5 inches. The design is great, and if you don’t mind the polyester material then this could be a good choice.
4. Rinastore Ukulele Strap – Anti-Slide Strap
This strap is great for avoiding slipping and sliding. Some straps slip around while you are playing. The woven ukulele design of the rinastore keeps it in place.
The design is very simple. It’s available in four colors so you can choose whichever you like best. Even though it’s not a pricey strap, it is well made and will last for some time.
Pros:
- Real leather ends. These are built to last many years.
- 5 inches is wider than some other options, and the cotton and linen strap stays in place.
- Adjustable between 29.5 and 51 inches. Great for adults and children. It can also be used for mandolin or banjo.
- Includes strap buttons and a pick.
Cons:
- Though it is real leather, it’s not high-grade leather.
If you’re looking for a simple design, this strap could be an option. It is also anti-slip so it won’t slide around while you are trying to play. You can choose your favorite color and trust this value for money design has all the quality and longevity you should need.
5. MUSIC FIRST Country style Soft Cotton & Genuine Leather Ukulele Strap – Best With Strap Lock
A strap lock can stop your instrument from falling to the floor if it comes loose or untied. This strap includes a strap lock for that extra level of protection.
The design has an intricate and traditional look. You can imagine ukes through the ages being played with a strap like this. It has genuine leather ends and a cotton and nylon material along the strap itself.
Pros:
- Made of cotton and real leather.
- Adjustable from 27.5 inches to 48 inches.
- Comes with a strap lock and a button to attach to your uke.
- Interesting and traditional design.
Cons:
- Can’t be made smaller than 27.5 inches, younger children can’t use it easily.
Because of the included strap lock, there is a lot of value for money on offer with this strap. It’s comfortable and good quality, too, with genuine leather ends that should last years.
Conclusion
A lot of uke straps offer similar features. We’ve picked out the CLOUDMUSIC Ukulele Strap as the best option. It is adjustable and can fit any size of ukulele and other instruments, too. The simple design goes with any instrument setup.
The leather ends are microfiber. They aren’t 100% real leather, but the microfiber is built to last years of gigging.
If you don’t have a metal button, you can opt for the Clip-On Ukulele Strap, this means you don’t have to drill a hole in your ukulele. This can alter the sound of the uke, and it can be an annoying process.
There are loads of good uke straps on the market, a lot of the decision will come down to your preference in looks and materials. Design matters and some people want modern looks and others want classical and traditional. There is an option for everyone on our list.