Practicing the clarinet regularly can cause pain and discomfort but a good clarinet strap can alleviate the pain and enable you to play for extended hours without experiencing fatigue.
Using a neck strap on a clarinet allows for easy placement and it also enables the mouthpiece to enter the mouth better. Also when you invest in a clarinet strap the weight of the clarinet is immediately transferred to your neck allowing the player to get more dexterity from their fingers.
The neck strap also makes it easy to play the clarinet while either sitting or standing, if a player, therefore, uses the neck strap while seated they can easily stabilize the clarinet instead of having to hold it close to their body.
Given the advantages outlined above of playing the clarinet using a neck strap, we ventured into the markets to find the best neck strap in 2022, and below we share our findings.
Best Clarinet Neck Straps 2022
| Model | Size availability | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Protec Clarinet Neck Strap, 22” Length (Model NCS2) | Adult size adjusts 17” to 22” Junior size adjusts 15.5” to 20” | Check Price Here |
| Rico Clarinet Neck Strap with Thumb Tab - Neck Strap for Clarinet | Easily adjustable | Check Price Here |
| Pro-Tec Clarinet Neck Strap, 20” Length (Model NCS3) | Two sizes adjustable Adult size adjusts 17” to 22” Kids size adjusts 15.5” to 20” | Check Price Here |
| Neotech Adjustable Padded Neoprene Clarinet Strap (2301202) | fully adjustable 17.5"-23" (44, 5cm-58, 4cm) | Check Price Here |
| Rochix Clarinet Black Neck Strap | Easy to adjust | Check Price Here |
| Neotech Classic Strap 2-Hook | Fully adjustable 16.5"-22" (41,9cm-55,9cm) | Check Price Here |
| Movo MS-20J Music Instrument Neck Strap | Adjustable to 22.8" long (58cm) | Check Price Here |
The Best Clarinet Neck Strap 2022 Review
Protec Clarinet Neck Strap, 22” Length (Model NCS2) (Best adjustable neck strap)
The Protec Clarinet neck strap is available for both adults and juniors and can be customized to suit the wearer by simply adjusting the sizes.
Key Features
- Item Weight- 4.4 ounces
- Material type- Leather
- Size-regular
- Color Name-Black
- Model NCS2
One of the key features to consider when investing in a clarinet neck strap is that it should be adjustable, as it will help compensate for normal body movement. A non-adjustable neck strap can lead to neck discomfort, ineffective release of tension, and poor posture. And that is why we settled with the Protec Clarinet Neck strap, the unit can be adjusted to assume two different positions and this goes for both the adults and the kids model.
The construction of the neck strap has incorporated a neck pad that cushions the player’s neck without causing any irritation or discomfort. The neoprene neck pad is also characteristic of a stitched trim that discourages it from stretching while allowing consistent embouchure. Players must, however, note that by using a clarinet neck strap they will not be able to improve their embouchure endurance.
The Protec clarinet neck strap has additionally been constructed with a strong open metal hook, which helps a player to find their unique positioning and setup. The metal hook features a rugged build thus you don’t have to worry about your clarinet dropping from your neck mid-session. The easy grab adjustment slider makes it easy to achieve a favorable position when playing the clarinet. While the quality leather attachment tabs have been incorporated to be used by the clarinets that don’t have a strap ring.
The Protec clarinet has been made to be compatible with most clarinets in the market while also alleviating right-hand tension.
What we liked
- Can be adjusted to two different sizes
- The metal hook features a rugged build
- Has incorporated a comfortable neoprene neck pad
- The neck strap is compatible with most clarinets
What we didn’t like
- The neck needs breaking in as it is too stiff and heavy
- It is best utilized by the younger players.
Verdict
Protec is the best adjustable neck strap to be used by both adults and kids, however, it might need some breaking in on the neck pad.
Rico Clarinet Neck Strap with Thumb Tab (Best Affordable Neck Strap)
The Rico clarinet neck strap features a design that enables it to fit most of the Bb and A clarinets. It is among the few clarinet neck straps that will offer the best quality but at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Weight- 0.06
- Color Name- Original version
- Dimensions- 5.5 x 12 x 0.78 inches
- Easy slide adjustor
The Rico clarinet neck strap is a product of D’Addario, a company that adheres to strict policies when it comes to product development and customer satisfaction. The Rico neck strap has not been constructed with a cushioning on the strap that goes over the player’s neck and as such the player must use the absence of this feature as a primary consideration of whether or not to invest on the neck strap.
However, there are individuals who prefer to invest in the less padded neck straps because it alleviates the weight and is less stiff just like the Rico neck strap. The strap is available in black, a color that integrates with most clarinets, it also features the sturdy leather tabs that have been established to attach to most of the standard thumb rests.
The neck strap has additionally, been designed to enable a customized fit thanks to the incorporation of the easy slide adjuster that enables players to simply adjust the length of the strap.
What we liked
- The leather attaches to the standard thumb rests
- The neck strap is light in weight
- Can be used by both the Bb and A clarinets
- The strap has been durably built
What we didn’t like
- The hook used to hold the leather tab is not comfortable
- The strap is too long for taller players
Verdict
The Rico neck strap has been durably built, it is not as heavy as compared to the Protec neck strap thus a good option for individuals who are interested in a less flexible neck strap.
Pro-Tec Clarinet Neck Strap, 20” Length (Model NCS3) (Best 20” neck strap for clarinet players)
The Pro-Tec clarinet neck strap is a tad bit different from the one already reviewed, beginning with the name as the new model NCS3 is referred to as the Pro-Tec while the older model is referred to as Protect. The NCS2 measures 22 inches whereas the new model only measures 20 inches.
Key features
- Color-black
- Material type- leather
- Strap length- 20 inches
- Size-regular
The Pro-Tec neck strap is super comfortable and made with highly durable materials. For example, the straps feature a custom metal slider with a relatively smooth and easy grab design. The unit has also incorporated a well-cushioned neck pad, perfect for individuals who put in long hours of practice. And with the subtle stitch trim, it effectively alleviates bounce.
The neck strap is also characteristic of the strong custom-molded ends with zigzag reinforcements that enhance the durability of the clarinet while also making it highly functional. And to ensure that your clarinet steadily remains on your neck, the strap has been constructed with a robust open metal hook, which comes complete with leather thumb tabs.
What we liked
- The neck strap is comfortable when worn
- Comes in both the kid’s and adult sizes
- Can be adjusted to assume two different sizes
- The custom slider has an easy grab design
What we didn’t like
- Has very little room for adjustment
- Can be short for some types of clarinets
Verdict
The Pro-Tec clarinet is available at 20”, and it is durably built. Short individuals who find the adult size not properly adjustable can settle with the junior size for a proper fit.
Neotech Adjustable Padded Neoprene Clarinet Strap (2301202) (Best next strap for clarinet and Oboe players)
Neotech is light in weight and comfortable clarinet neck strap but which can also be used by the Oboe players.
Key Features
- Weight 1.3 pounds
- Material type- Neoprene
- Dimensions- 23 x 3 x 2 inches
- Neoprene is 3mm thick and 1-inch wide
The Neotech adjustable padded clarinet weighs 1.3 pounds which is a fairly lightweight option for beginner, intermediate and professional clarinet players. And despite the weight, the unit is highly durable and minimally padded to offer the utmost comfort.
The clarinet strap comes attached with a unique Neo Mini QD loop that attaches easily to either the thumb rest or the strap ring. And with the secure disconnect system players can easily detach the clarinet from the strap. For length customization, the neck strap has incorporated a two-finger slide adjust length which can be used to fully adjust the clarinet from 17.5” to 23”.
What we liked
- The clarinet sports a robust build
- It is easily adjustable
- Easily disconnects from the strap
- Can be used by both the clarinet and oboe players
What we didn’t like
- The strap rarely stays in position
- Not convenient for the long term
Verdict
If you play both the Oboe and the clarinet then this is a good neck strap for your music career. It is light in weight, easily customizable but not reliable for the long practice sessions.
Rochix Clarinet Black Neck Strap (Best soft and comfortable neck strap)
The Rochix clarinet strap is made of a super fiber material that is soft and comfortable for the neck. The neck strap can be customized to two distinct sizes.
Key Features
- Material type- Super fiber
- Color name- black
- Weight 3.67 ounces
- Dimensions 9.5 x 2.8 x 1.3 inches
The Rochix clarinet black neck strap is made of high-quality material making it a good option for extended use. The unit is additionally easy to adjust and will not be too tight when worn around the neck. The neck strap does have some very impressive aesthetics all thanks to the brand’s name signature neatly inscribed at the very end of the leather material.
The neck strap comes complete with a new adjustment buckle and which is characteristic of a double layer perforation, and a large load capacity meaning that it can suffice for use with the heavy wooden clarinets. The shoulder strap is adjustable and can assume two different lengths, you can, therefore, adjust it to 41cm in length or 54cm in length.
Rochix neck strap is made from a leather material that will not only provide the necessary cushioning but also be comfortable enough for the skin for extended use.
What we liked
- Can be adjusted to two different sizes
- The straps are made of a durable leather material
- The strap features a new easy to use adjustment buckle
- Does not come with a hefty price tag
What we didn’t like
- The hook is not as durable
Verdict
If you are looking for a comfortable neck strap that offers both functionality and aesthetics then the Rochix necks strap will suffice.
Neotech Classic Strap 2-Hook (Best stretchable clarinet neck strap)
The Neotech Classic strap is a two hook clarinet that is fully adjustable and can, therefore, achieve up to two distinct sizes. It is the best neck strap to be used by individuals who play the bass clarinet.
Key Features
- Weight 3.2 ounces
- Material type- Neoprene, Metal
- Size – one size
- Fully adjustable 16.5″-22″ (41,9cm-55,9cm)
The Neotech classic Strap 2-hook has been skillfully built to offer comfort for extended use. The neck strap, therefore, features a soft and durable neoprene and which has incorporated Neoprene’s internal control stretch system that offers both comfort and functionality.
The neck strap comes complete with some unique slides that will hold the desired length while at the same time offering easy two-finger adjustment capabilities. The neck strap has been designed to evenly distribute the weight of the clarinet, as the internal system conveniently absorbs the shock of the player’s movement which is usually felt on the neck and the shoulders.
The classic strap has additionally been configured to reduce strap movement while at the same time maximizing on comfort. Players can increase adjustment to different levels with the hooks intact, the straps are additionally known to integrate with the different types of instruments such as the English horn, and the saxophone among others.
What we liked
- Increased adjustment is possible with the hooks
- The neck strap is stretchable
- Neoprene material evenly distributes the weight of the clarinet
- Offers two-finger adjustment capabilities
What we didn’t like
- Can be short for other types of clarinets
Verdict
The Neotech classic neck strap happens to be the most versatile in our review and you can, therefore, integrate it with up to four different instruments. It is a good unit for the multi-talented music instrument players.
Movo MS-20J Music Instrument Neck Strap (Best universal compatible neck strap)
Key Features
- Dimensions 5.6 x 5 x 2.6 inches
- Length 22.8” (58cm)
- Weight 3.1oz (88g)
- Size – medium
The Movo MS-20J comes equipped with a swivel hook that enables it to attach to different instruments. And is additionally available in four distinct colors including black and red.
If comfort is your priority when playing the clarinet ten the Movo MS-20J neck strap is your go to unit. The unit features a padded neoprene neck strap that is not only comfortable but also highly supportive. The neck strap is customizable and players can, therefore, adjust the length of the straps to accommodate all body types.
The padded strap has additionally incorporated a broad yoke meant to disperse the weight of a heavy instrument across the player’s neck and shoulders. The above feature has been established to reduce the strain experienced during the long performances.
What we liked
- Comes with a1-year warranty
- Features a weight reduction design
- The neck strap is fully adjustable to fit the player’s needs
- It is designed to offer comfort
What we didn’t like
- Clip could be too large for a clarinet
- The strap snags up a little too easily
Verdict
The Movo neck strap is ideal for extended use given the pain reduction features that have been incorporated during its construction. What’s more is that it is backed by a 1-year warranty and can, therefore, be trusted to offer long term service.
Buying Guide
What to look for when buying the best clarinet neck strap
Consider your practice duration- most clarinet straps have been specifically manufactured to take away some of the weight and tension from a player’s hands, while allowing longer physical endurance. And this is what you should settle with.
Adjustability– you also need to ensure that the neck strap is adjustable so that it can comfortably fit your clarinet and also allow you to achieve the right posture.
Check the Hook– the incorporated hook in your clarinet should be durably built this ensures that you will not drop your clarinet during use.
Comfort- the material used in making the neck strap should be comfortable in case you want to use it for long hours. It should also be comfortable for your skin.
Final Verdict
When it comes to choosing the best clarinet strap, so many factors come in to play, that players must consider, the most primary being comfort which will in the long run alleviate pain and enable the player to play for an extended time. The above-reviewed clarinets offer comfort, durability and can help alleviate pain; what’s more, is that some of them can be used with other musical instruments.
FAQ’s
Are clarinets loud?
Yes, clarinets can play up to 114 decibels
Must I use a clarinet strap?
The benefit of using a clarinet strap is that it helps reduce the weight of the instrument on the right hand thumb.
Charlotte Moore
Charlotte Moore is a Clarinetist by profession and has over time offered lessons on how to play the clarinet among other musical instruments. And while a majority of clarinet players are well versed with the process of settling with a good clarinet among other accompanying features. There is little information about clarinets. The reason why Charlotte prepared comprehensive experts touching on the various facets of the clarinet. The consolidated information will offer more insight on everything clarinets including the best stand to use, and the best plastic clarinet that you can invest in, among other information. Charlotte Moore is a devoted mother of two and a professional clarinet player.