Re: Guitar straps
Sixty guitars, and a leather strap for each one. I've probably spent more on straps than a lot of guys spent on their guitars.
I don't like buckles or conches, or anything that can scratch the guitar. I don't do the plastic-backed woven straps as the plastic can destroy the finish. I never put the strap in the case touching the finish, even a leather strap. I like the two-piece "ladder back" design, and I need them to go 54" to 56" due to my portly physique. I like them 2.5" to 3.0" wide.
I mostly have Franklin and Levy's, but several others as well: Martin, Music Man, Moody's, Fort Bryan, Washburn, Double Treble, Italia, Eyeland, Dunlop (Harley Davidson) and a custom strap from a local leather worker.
The designer in me tries to pick the "right" strap for the guitar, one that compliments the look of the guitar. I do spend some time in the selection process, and then the strap I choose will stay with that guitar. I've noticed that guys will comment on my guitar but often women will comment about the strap.
I think the most I've spent on a strap was around $80...one of those was a used Moody's Custom Shop Strap, 4" wide, black leather with blue inlaid leather stars.
Best value has to be the Franklin Straps; I've bought most of mine from GC. Good length.
Levy's are beautiful, especially the carving leather straps. The garment leather is super soft. Lots of choices in colors, and available in extra-long lengths.
Moody's tend to run too short for me. Even if I order a long strap. Very expensive, but top quality.
Ditto for Italia. I think they sell on Ebay still. Had them make me a long strap with a longer body, not just a long tail. I have an old upper back injury from a car accident and if the body isn't long enough the loop where the tail fits in can irritate that spot. Four inches longer, and no problem. High quality and a good value.
Many of the straps have deep sentimental value. Still have the Martin strap I bought for my 1972 D-18. Some from trips, like one I bought from Gruhn's Guitars in Nashville. A couple were gifts from a former lover...she passed away a couple of years ago...bittersweet memories.
Eyeland makes some weird, wonderful straps. Mine is plain stitched black leather, and has a weird tail attachment. Perfect for the guitar it's on, though.
I've heard good things about Couch, Long Hollow, El Dorado, et.al. You may have a guy in town that does leatherwork that could make you a totally Custom strap, and probably for not much money.
For me, selecting a strap is part ritual, making the new guitar mine. Very personal, and I take great care in selecting the right strap. I have a few guitars that were close to $3000, so why would I hang them from a $10 nylon strap? It'd be like your beautiful trophy wife wearing a Dior gown on the Red Carpet...with Chuck Taylor sneaks.
A special guitar needs a special strap.
Bill