Who designed the Dunlop RW01 strap?

The strap was designed by Dunlop in collaboration with 'Rev. Willy', the signature persona of legendary guitarist Billy Gibbons.

What material is used in the RW01?

The strap is crafted from premium leather, specifically treated to feel supple and broken-in from the first use.

What is the maximum length of this strap?

The RW01 features an adjustable design with an extra-long maximum length of 60 inches.

Does the strap require a long break-in period?

No, the manufacturer describes the premium leather as having a broken-in feel immediately, offering comfort from the first time it is used.

What is the unique decorative detail on this strap?

The strap features a custom medallion inspired by Rev. Willy's famous Mexican peso guitar pick.

What era of guitar gear inspired this design?

The design is a nod to the 'golden age' of guitar gear, specifically inspired by vintage straps from the 1950s.

Is the RW01 suitable for tall players?

Yes, its 60-inch adjustable length makes it ideal for taller players or those who prefer to hang their guitar very low.

How much does the Dunlop RW01 typically cost?

The typical price range for this signature leather strap is approximately GBP 55.

Can this strap be used for studio work?

Yes, it is designed for both the studio and the stage, focusing on comfort for long playing sessions.

What playing styles does this strap accommodate?

It suits a wide range of styles, from 'low-slung blues swagger' to tighter, higher setups that offer more technical control.

How does the RW01 compare to synthetic straps like Neotech?

While Neotech straps often use neoprene for specialized weight distribution, the RW01 uses premium leather for a classic aesthetic and natural durability.

Is this strap part of a wider signature line?

Yes, it is part of the Rev. Willy's (Billy Gibbons) signature series produced by Dunlop, which also includes various other guitar accessories.

Gear article

Dunlop RW01 Willys Signature Vintage Leather Strap

The Dunlop RW01 is a premium guitar strap designed in collaboration with Billy Gibbons, also known as 'Rev. Willy'. Inspired by vintage 1950s designs, it features high-quality leather construction and a unique Mexican peso pick medallion.

Dunlop Strap RW01 Willys Signature Vintage Leather

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Overview

The Dunlop RW01 Willys Signature Vintage Leather Strap is a high-end accessory tailored for guitarists who value mid-century aesthetics and road-ready durability. Part of Dunlop's range of professional-grade straps and capos, this model is designed to emulate the look and feel of 1950s guitar equipment while meeting modern performance standards. It is particularly noted for its premium material choice and its connection to the distinctive style of the ZZ Top guitarist.

Design and Features

The strap is constructed from high-quality leather that is treated to provide a 'broken-in' feel immediately upon purchase, avoiding the stiffness often associated with new leather products. A key aesthetic feature is the custom medallion, which is inspired by the Mexican peso pick famously used by Rev. Willy. For adjustability, the strap offers an extra-long maximum length of 60 inches, catering to players who prefer their instrument to hang lower, such as in traditional blues or rock setups.

Neotech Soft Sax Strap Regular Swivel Hook Red

Comfort and Usability

Dunlop has engineered the RW01 for comfort during extended use, whether in a studio environment or during live performances. The soft, flexible nature of the leather helps distribute the weight of the guitar across the shoulder. The extended length range allows for significant versatility, making it suitable for a variety of body types and instrument positions, from high-slung jazz styles to low-slung 'swagger' positions.

Market Comparison

Positioned at a price point of approximately £55, the RW01 sits in the premium tier of the strap market. Unlike more utilitarian options like the Neotech Soft Sax Strap or the Neotech Super Banjo Strap, which focus on synthetic materials and specific instrument types, the RW01 is a lifestyle and performance piece for guitarists. While accessories like Fender Strap Blocks or various capos from K&M and Tanglewood provide functional support, the RW01 is intended as a permanent, high-style component of a player's rig.

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Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Dunlop RW01 strap?: The strap was designed by Dunlop in collaboration with 'Rev. Willy', the signature persona of legendary guitarist Billy Gibbons.
What material is used in the RW01?: The strap is crafted from premium leather, specifically treated to feel supple and broken-in from the first use.
What is the maximum length of this strap?: The RW01 features an adjustable design with an extra-long maximum length of 60 inches.
Does the strap require a long break-in period?: No, the manufacturer describes the premium leather as having a broken-in feel immediately, offering comfort from the first time it is used.
What is the unique decorative detail on this strap?: The strap features a custom medallion inspired by Rev. Willy's famous Mexican peso guitar pick.
What era of guitar gear inspired this design?: The design is a nod to the 'golden age' of guitar gear, specifically inspired by vintage straps from the 1950s.
Is the RW01 suitable for tall players?: Yes, its 60-inch adjustable length makes it ideal for taller players or those who prefer to hang their guitar very low.
How much does the Dunlop RW01 typically cost?: The typical price range for this signature leather strap is approximately GBP 55.
Can this strap be used for studio work?: Yes, it is designed for both the studio and the stage, focusing on comfort for long playing sessions.
What playing styles does this strap accommodate?: It suits a wide range of styles, from 'low-slung blues swagger' to tighter, higher setups that offer more technical control.
How does the RW01 compare to synthetic straps like Neotech?: While Neotech straps often use neoprene for specialized weight distribution, the RW01 uses premium leather for a classic aesthetic and natural durability.
Is this strap part of a wider signature line?: Yes, it is part of the Rev. Willy's (Billy Gibbons) signature series produced by Dunlop, which also includes various other guitar accessories.