The type and variety of electric guitar straps is quite varied.
Generally, guitar players prefer a strap that will suit their individual playing style, and not clash visually with their particular guitar.
Comfort, style and aesthetics are essential, and not necessarily in that order.
Polypropylene Straps At the most economical end of the spectrum are the basic polypropylene straps with plastic buckles.
They're usually two inches wide and made from inexpensive synthetic material.
This allows for their low price, even if they may not be the most attractive or classy items imaginable.
Many players prefer them over a more expensive strap, as they're cheap and easy to replace, and also slide easily over the shoulder.
Cotton Straps Moving up a notch in aesthetics and comfort, the similar cotton straps are a good bet.
They're still quite inexpensive at around $10, but many find the cotton material to be much more comfortable than the poly.
Bear in mind, cotton will stain more easily than polypropylene, so with a light color strap, over time the strap may pick up dirt and oil from you and your surroundings and become a bit unsightly.
Leather Straps Undoubtedly the most attractive and classy looking straps for most people are made of leather.
Soft suede straps are quite comfortable, and wider than many at 2 1/2 inches.
This extra half inch may not sound like much, but it can make a big difference when playing for long periods, or if you have an issue with narrower straps digging into your shoulder.
Even more comfortable are padded leather straps.
These straps are also generally a bit wider, and also include foam padding with a garment (soft) leather backing.
You get what you pay for with these straps, as with most other things, and the padded leather straps will run you about $60.
If you like your guitar strap decorated, check out some of the airbrushed leather straps available.
They come with a variety of stylized designs painted onto the leather, such as flames, skulls and clowns.
They're perfect for those who like to stand out visually.
Strap locks are never a bad idea, as worn ends can tend to pop off the button at an inopportune time and leave you to try to catch your guitar before it hits the ground.
Oversized buttons can be helpful as well, although locking plastic strap locks are hard to beat, as they replace your existing buttons and lock directly to the strap end, requiring that you press the unlocking tabs to remove the straps.
Whichever guitar strap you decide on for your guitar, be sure to take into account the length of the strap in relation to your height.
If you're tall, or carrying around a few extra pounds, consider the maximum adjustable length when purchasing a strap.