How to Choose Accordion Straps: A Complete Guide to Width, Fit and Comfort

How to Choose Accordion Straps: Width, Fit & Comfort Explained

Choosing the right accordion straps makes a significant difference to comfort, control, and long-term playing development. Straps are not just an accessory — they are your physical connection to the instrument.

If the straps are wrong, the instrument will never feel fully under control. If they are right, the accordion begins to feel like part of you.

Why Accordion Straps Matter More Than You Think

The key challenge in learning and progressing on the accordion is not just playing the notes — it is controlling the instrument. Your straps are what allow you to stabilise, balance, and command that movement.

Poor straps lead to:

• Lack of control
• Poor posture
• Fatigue during playing
• Slower progress

Well-fitted straps, on the other hand, allow the instrument to sit correctly and respond naturally to your playing.

Choosing the Right Strap Width

The most important factor when selecting accordion straps is width — but it is not just about the size of the accordion.

Straps need to work in harmony with:

• The weight of the instrument
• Your playing style
• The shape of your shoulders

As a general guide:

• 45mm straps – ideal for melodeons and smaller accordions up to around 72 bass
• 60mm straps – a crossover option suitable from 72 bass up to lighter 96 bass instruments
• 80–90mm straps – increased support for heavier accordions
• 100mm+ straps – maximum support for 96 and 120 bass instruments

The wider the strap, the more the weight is distributed across your shoulders — improving comfort and control.

You can explore different widths in our accordion & melodeon straps collection.

For many players, a 60mm strap is the best starting point, offering a balanced combination of comfort and control. If you need more support for a heavier instrument, consider a 90mm Svezia strap or a 100mm Elefante strap.

Do Players Choose Straps That Are Too Wide?

Yes — and it’s a common mistake.

Many players assume that wider straps are always better. While wider straps do spread the load, they must still fit correctly. Poorly fitted wide straps can reduce control rather than improve it.

A well-fitted strap is always more important than simply choosing the widest option available.

Getting the Length Right (Often Overlooked)

Quality accordion straps are designed with different lengths for each shoulder:

• The longer strap fits the right shoulder
• The shorter strap fits the left shoulder

This asymmetry is essential for correct playing position.

One of the most common mistakes is fitting the straps incorrectly or failing to adjust them properly.

Good straps allow for multi-point adjustment — and it is important to:

Adjust, play, adjust again.

This process takes time, but it is worth it.

Too Short or Too Long — Which Is Worse?

Both can cause problems.

• Straps that are too short restrict movement and feel uncomfortable
• Straps that are too long reduce control and stability

The goal is balance — where the instrument sits comfortably and feels secure whether sitting or standing.

Do You Need a Back Strap?

An accordion back strap connects the two shoulder straps across your back.

It is particularly useful for:

• Players using two shoulder straps
• Standing players
• Heavier instruments
• Anyone needing additional control and stability

Melodeon players using a single strap typically do not need one.

For many accordion players, a back strap provides noticeably improved balance and support.

Melodeon vs Piano Accordion Straps

The requirements differ between instruments.

Melodeon

Melodeons are lighter, so they do not require very wide straps. A well-made 45mm padded strap is often more than sufficient and provides excellent comfort and control.

Piano Accordion

Piano accordions are heavier, and as a result:

• Wider straps improve support
• Back straps can help stabilise the instrument
• Correct fit becomes more critical

The larger the instrument, the more important strap width and support become.

Italian Straps vs Cheaper Alternatives

Italian-made straps are widely regarded as the benchmark — and for good reason.

They have been developed over many years in the same region where accordions are made, with strap makers working closely alongside instrument manufacturers.

This results in:

• Better comfort
• Improved durability
• More precise fit
• Higher-quality materials

Cheaper straps often use lower-grade materials, which can:

• Stretch over time
• Lose structure
• Crack or degrade
• Even fail completely

In many cases, buying cheap straps leads to replacing them sooner — or struggling with poor playing comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying cheap straps that won’t last
• Ignoring the weight of the instrument
• Choosing the wrong length
• Not using a back strap when needed
• Failing to properly adjust the straps

The One Thing Most Players Don’t Realise

Your straps are your connection to the instrument.

If you want to play the accordion properly, the instrument needs to feel like part of you — and that starts with having straps that fit correctly and perform reliably.

Good straps are not an upgrade later — they are something you should get right from the beginning.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right accordion straps is about more than comfort — it is about control, confidence, and long-term enjoyment of the instrument.

If you’re unsure which straps are right for you, browse our full range of accordion & melodeon straps or get in touch for expert advice.