Looking for an affordable guitar strap that won't break the bank? The Ernie Ball Polypro guitar strap promises budget-friendly convenience, but does it deliver on comfort and durability? This review dives into the pros and cons of this inexpensive option, examining its construction, ease of use, and overall performance. We'll explore whether its low price point justifies any potential compromises in quality and longevity, helping you decide if it's the right choice for your needs or if a more substantial investment is warranted.From its minimalist packaging to its surprisingly sturdy material, we'll assess every aspect of the Ernie Ball Polypro strap. We'll discuss the challenges encountered during installation, focusing on the narrow strap slit and the lack of padding. Ultimately, we'll determine if this strap is a worthwhile purchase for casual players with lighter guitars or if it falls short for frequent users and those carrying heavier instruments. Read on to find out if this budget-friendly option is a hidden gem or a strap best left on the shelf.
Pros And Cons
- Inexpensive (around $5)
- Adjustable
- Comfortable across the shoulder (even without padding)
- Fits various body types
- Does not include a string
- Narrow slit makes it difficult to attach to some guitars
- Leather is not pliable, making attachment difficult
- Lacks reinforcement stitching around the slit, making widening risky
- Not padded
Read more: 5 Best Black Guitar Straps: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing the Ernie Ball Polypro Strap
The Ernie Ball Polypro guitar strap arrived in minimalist packaging, a simple bag with nothing flashy. I purchased it from Amazon for around $5. The price and availability are typical of online retailers and offer great value for money.
The strap itself is immediately evident – simple, sleek and surprisingly sturdy for its price point. It has a standard shiny Ernie Ball logo and appears to be a durable material reminiscent of what you’d see on a backpack.
One important note is that this strap doesn't include a string. If your guitar lacks an extra pin at the upper end, you’ll need to supply your own string for attachment.
Fit and Adjustability Issues
Fitting the strap proved more challenging than expected. The strap's slit for the guitar pin is narrower than usual, making it difficult to attach to both my traveler guitar and my standard acoustic.
The material isn’t very pliable, adding to the difficulty. I had to widen the slit myself, which is a bit risky without reinforcement stitching.
My other guitar strap has a significantly larger and better-reinforced slit; this is a key design flaw on the Ernie Ball model.
Comfort and Durability
Once secured, the strap offers decent comfort, despite the lack of padding. This is acceptable for lighter guitars, but heavier instruments might be uncomfortable over longer periods.
The adjustability is standard and suitable for various body types. However, the lack of reinforcement stitching around the slit makes me concerned about long-term durability.
If you plan on using this strap frequently or for heavier guitars, the lack of padding and potential stitching issues should be considered.
Final Verdict: Budget-Conscious Choice with Caveats
The Ernie Ball Polypro strap is a very inexpensive option, offering good value for its low price (under $6 at the time of purchase). If you're on a budget and need a basic strap, it's a viable choice. The brand recognition is a plus for some.
However, the narrow slit and lack of padding are significant drawbacks. For frequent use or with heavier guitars, a padded strap with better design is essential for both comfort and long-term use.
Ultimately, this strap is suitable for occasional use with lighter guitars, but those seeking a more durable and comfortable option should explore other models at a slightly higher price point.