Seatbelt Guitar Strap vs Backing Suede Guitar Strap

Guitar Straps: Seatbelt vs. Suede Backing by Pardo Guitar Straps

Let’s Talk About Seatbelt and Suede-Backed Guitar Straps

When it comes to guitar straps, two standout options from Pardo Guitar Straps are seatbelt-backed straps and suede-backed straps. Each type offers unique benefits and caters to different preferences. Let’s explore their features and help you decide which one might be the perfect fit for your musical journey.

Seatbelt Guitar Straps: Durable and Reliable

Seatbelt guitar straps are incredibly popular today, and it’s easy to see why. Made from strong, resilient material, these straps can endure heavy use and last for years if crafted with high-quality components. Think of them as the “workhorse” of guitar straps—reliable, durable, and ready for daily use.

Pardo seatbelt-backed straps feature a jacquard fabric front. This combination of a stylish, woven design on the front and the robust seatbelt material on the back creates a strap that is both visually appealing and highly functional. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking long-term durability without compromising style.

A Nod to the Classics

The design inspiration for these straps often comes from the vintage 1960s—think of the original Ace straps. While Ace straps had woven jacquard fronts, their backing was made from thin vinyl, which, while functional, lacked the long-term strength of today’s seatbelt materials. In comparison, modern seatbelt-backed straps take durability to a whole new level.

Suede-Backed Guitar Straps: Luxurious and Refined

For those looking for a touch of elegance, Pardo’s suede-backed guitar straps offer an excellent alternative. Suede, with its napped finish, is a soft, flexible type of leather often used in high-end garments and accessories. This backing material adds a layer of sophistication to your strap while still being strong enough for everyday use.

Why Choose Suede?

Suede is not only durable but also non-slip. This feature is particularly beneficial for players with instruments like the Gibson SG, which are known for their neck-heavy balance. With a suede-backed strap, your guitar stays securely in place, giving you more freedom to focus on your playing.

However, it’s important to note that suede requires a bit more care than seatbelt material. To keep your suede strap in top condition, avoid direct contact with skin, especially in warm weather. Wearing a shirt or other clothing between the strap and your skin can extend its lifespan and maintain its pristine look.

Comparing Seatbelt and Suede Backing

Both seatbelt and suede-backed guitar straps are excellent choices, but they each bring different qualities to the table:

Seatbelt Guitar Straps:

• Durability:Extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear.
• Easy Maintenance:Simple to clean, making them ideal for heavy use.
• Everyday Comfort:Perfect for frequent use—think of them like your favorite pair of jeans.

Suede-Backed Guitar Straps:

• Elegance:Offers a more luxurious and refined feel.
• Non-Slip:Ideal for maintaining instrument stability.
• Care Requirements:Requires more attention to stay clean and avoid wear.

In terms of functionality, both types can handle the weight of any standard guitar or bass—even the heaviest Les Paul models won’t strain these straps. The choice comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your strap.

Which One Do I Prefer?

If you ask me, choosing between these two straps is like deciding between casual and formal wear. Seatbelt straps remind me of jeans—practical, comfortable, and perfect for everyday use. Suede-backed straps, on the other hand, feel more like dressing up for a special occasion—luxurious and refined.

Having both options is the best solution. After all, we only live once, so why settle for just one strap (or one guitar)?

Final Thoughts

Both seatbelt and suede-backed guitar straps from Pardo offer incredible quality, durability, and style. If you’re looking for a strap that’s reliable and easy to maintain, go with the seatbelt option. If you value elegance and a touch of luxury, suede is the way to go.

As a final tip, consider your instrument’s specific needs. For example, if you own an SG or another neck-heavy guitar, the non-slip feature of suede might make it the better choice. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either—they’re both built to last and designed to complement your music.

So, stay healthy, keep rocking, and enjoy your guitar journey in style.

All the best,
Miquel