So you’ve invested in a beautiful Martin guitar, congratulations! Protecting your investment and ensuring comfortable playability is paramount, and choosing the right strap is a key part of that. If you’re wondering about the best strap for your Martin, especially if you’re hesitant to add a second endpin and are considering headstock attachment, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore some excellent options and crucial considerations for selecting a Martin Guitar Strap.
When it comes to quality and reliability, you can’t go wrong with established brands. For readily available straps, especially if you prefer to shop locally, Levy’s Leathers stands out. They offer a wide range of straps, from basic nylon to exquisitely decorated padded leather, all with consistent quality. Many guitarists, myself included, swear by Levy’s padded garment leather straps for their comfort and durability.
However, for online shoppers seeking exceptional value, Walker & Williams straps are a hidden gem. Since discovering them, I’ve been consistently impressed with their guitar and mandolin straps. The quality is outstanding, particularly when you consider their very reasonable prices. What’s their secret? Walker & Williams is a division of a larger company dealing in bulk leather and animal byproducts. This allows them to source their materials at significantly lower costs compared to other strap manufacturers, an advantage they pass on to the consumer. They are also proudly made in the USA, which is a bonus for many.
Consider this example of a Walker & Williams strap:
Walker & Williams G-114 tooled leather guitar strap
This beautifully tooled leather strap typically retails around $30 and rivals the quality of straps from other brands that cost significantly more. Exploring the Walker & Williams website is highly recommended to see their diverse offerings.
For those using a single endpin and needing a headstock attachment, Martin’s own headstock hanger is a viable option. Walker & Williams also produces similar headstock straps, both plain and decorative. Their plain headstock straps come in black, tan, and dark brown:
Walker & Williams tan leather guitar headstock strap
If you’re looking to add a touch of Western flair, Walker & Williams also offers a tooled leather headstock strap:
Walker & Williams AT-3BRN tooled leather western guitar headstock strap
Now, let’s discuss what to avoid. Vinyl is the enemy of your Martin’s finish. Never use a strap that has vinyl backing or components. Vinyl reacts chemically with nitrocellulose lacquer, the finish used on Martin guitars, causing damage over time. This damage can manifest as discoloration, softening, or even irreversible marks on your guitar’s finish. Here’s a stark example of vinyl strap damage:
Vinyl strap damage to the back of a Martin guitar
And it’s not just straps. Vinyl on guitar stands can cause similar damage to the neck:
Vinyl guitar stand damage to a guitar neck
For a detailed explanation of why vinyl and nitrocellulose finishes don’t mix, you can refer to this resource on Frets.com: http://www.frets.com/FretsPages/Musi…nyl/vinyl.html. Always check the materials of any strap or guitar accessory to ensure it’s vinyl-free.
While leather is generally safe and a preferred material for many guitar straps, some tanning processes can also pose risks to nitrocellulose finishes. To minimize this risk, stick to reputable brands like Levy’s Leathers and Walker & Williams, who understand the importance of finish-safe materials. Many players also craft their own straps from safe leathers, showcasing a deep understanding of suitable materials.
Beyond straps, another essential accessory for your new Martin is a good cleaning cloth. While specialized polishing cloths are available, simple, soft cloths work perfectly for routine wiping. Many guitarists, including myself, rely on old t-shirts made of 100% cotton jersey. These are gentle enough for the delicate finish and effective at removing dust and fingerprints.
Choosing the right martin guitar strap is a small but crucial detail in caring for your instrument. By opting for quality brands, avoiding harmful materials like vinyl, and understanding the options for headstock attachment, you can ensure both the safety and playability of your cherished Martin guitar for years to come. Consider exploring the offerings from Levy’s Leathers and Walker & Williams to find the perfect strap for your needs and style.
