Couch Guitar Straps Review: Vegan, Vintage, and Vibrant

Looking for a guitar strap that's as unique as your playing style? Look no further than Couch Guitar Straps, a Los Angeles-based company revolutionizing the accessory game. They combine a commitment to sustainable practices with bold, eye-catching designs, resulting in straps that are as environmentally conscious as they are stylish. Forget boring leather; Couch utilizes "dead stock" materials – salvaged vintage vinyl, automotive fabrics, and even furniture upholstery – breathing new life into forgotten pieces and creating one-of-a-kind accessories.Each strap tells a story, boasting a blend of durability and character unmatched by mass-produced options. From the vibrant Racer X stripes to the more subdued tones of their Luggage Line, Couch offers a diverse collection catering to every musical taste and guitar finish. Experience the perfect fusion of vintage charm, modern craftsmanship, and ethical production – all while ensuring your instrument is comfortably and stylishly supported. Discover the Couch Guitar Straps difference and find the perfect companion for your axe.

Pros And Cons

Couch Guitar Straps
  • Vegan materials (no leather or animal products)
  • Use of 'dead stock' materials (vintage materials from cars, luggage, furniture)
  • Well-stitched construction
  • Durable vinyl that shows little wear after four years of light use
  • Available in many different color combinations
  • Long enough for tall users (6'3" reviewer comfortable with it)
  • Option to shorten strap length upon order
  • White straps are more of an off-white, not bright white
  • Black plastic adjusters on some models (others have stainless or brass)

Read more: 5 Best Black Guitar Straps: A Buyer's Guide

Couch Guitar Straps: A Vegan Approach

Couch Guitar Straps, a Los Angeles-based company, stands out with its commitment to veganism. All their products are free from leather and animal products, appealing to environmentally conscious musicians. They cleverly utilize 'dead stock' materials – vintage materials sourced from cars, luggage, and furniture – giving these forgotten pieces a new life.

Image showing the Couch Guitar Straps company logo or packaging emphasizing their vegan-friendly approach.
Image showing the Couch Guitar Straps company logo or packaging emphasizing their vegan-friendly approach.

This sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also contributes to the unique character of each strap. The use of recycled materials adds a layer of authenticity and a story to each piece, making them more than just accessories.

Close-up of a Couch strap highlighting the material texture and showcasing the absence of leather.
Close-up of a Couch strap highlighting the material texture and showcasing the absence of leather.

Design and Durability: Racer X and Beyond

The Racer X stripe, a popular design, features vinyl on both sides with a fiberglass-reinforced core and carbon fiber ends. This construction ensures durability and longevity, defying concerns about vinyl tearing or wearing down over time.

The reviewer showcasing their white with orange Racer X strap.
The reviewer showcasing their white with orange Racer X strap.

The reviewer has owned a white Racer X strap for approximately four years with light use, and it shows little to no signs of wear. Various color combinations and materials are available, offering a broad spectrum of styles to match different guitars and personal preferences.

Close-up showing the stitching and material construction of the strap.
Close-up showing the stitching and material construction of the strap.

Color Options and Matching Considerations

While the white Racer X strap is popular, the reviewer notes it's closer to an off-white or Olympic White, rather than a bright white. This might be a consideration for those seeking a perfect match with a pristine white guitar. Other color options, like the dark red or black with white stripes, offer more versatile matching capabilities.

Comparison shot of the white Couch strap next to a bright white guitar.
Comparison shot of the white Couch strap next to a bright white guitar.

The reviewer suggests that darker-colored straps, such as the black with white stripe, pair better with a wider range of guitars, offering more contrast and visual appeal. The choice ultimately depends on individual preference and the color of the guitar.

The dark red strap shown on a guitar.
The dark red strap shown on a guitar.

Material Variety: From Mustangs to Luggage

Beyond the Racer X and solid color options, Couch offers straps made from unique vintage materials. One example is a strap made from material originally used in 1970s and 1980s Ford Mustang seats, adding a nostalgic touch.

The Mustang seat material strap.
The Mustang seat material strap.

The 'Luggage Line' features straps with more muted, neutral colors such as ivory with brown, gray, and hints of tan and green. These versatile straps complement a wider range of guitar finishes.

The ivory luggage strap.
The ivory luggage strap.

Overall Impression and Conclusion

The reviewer consistently praises the quality, durability, and unique aesthetic of Couch Guitar Straps. They highlight the straps' comfortable length, even for taller individuals, and the option to customize length during ordering. The variety of designs and materials ensures a strap to match nearly any guitar and personal style.

A montage of several different Couch straps.
A montage of several different Couch straps.

Overall, Couch Guitar Straps receive a strong recommendation. Their commitment to veganism, use of high-quality materials, and unique designs make them a standout choice for guitarists seeking both style and sustainability. The variety of colors and materials ensure a wide range of options for any guitarist.

The reviewer giving a final thumbs up or positive gesture.
The reviewer giving a final thumbs up or positive gesture.