From Hard Shell to Gig Bag: How to Choose the Right Guitar Case

Travelling is almost an inevitable part of many musicians’ lives, whether for touring, rehearsals, or recording sessions. One of the many don’ts while on the go is leaving your guitar unprotected. Being unprotected, your instrument is likely to get dusty and knocked over. That’s why quality cases for guitar are a musician’s tour essential.

When it comes to choosing the right fit for your instrument and lifestyle, there are two main types to consider, soft and hardshell cases for guitar. They differ in several aspects, like the level of protection, portability, durability, and cost.

Softshell Guitar Cases (Gig Bags) 

These guitar bags are designed for musicians who prioritise portability, lightweight convenience, and affordability. They are usually made from padded nylon with internal foam cushioning to protect the instrument from minor impacts and scratches. Although this padding provides cushioning against everyday bumps and jostling, it’s less rigid than that of hardshell cases. The padding can vary in thickness and quality depending on the model.

Next, softshell bags are generally lightweight because of their flexible construction and the use of thinner outer materials and minimal internal reinforcement. You can easily throw them over your shoulder or tuck them into smaller spaces. So when you’re rushing between gigs, squeezing into tour vans, and navigating crowded train stations, softshells are a better fit.

Style-wise, these models are available in various colours, patterns, and styles. Musicians can choose a case that reflects their taste. Compared to the polished look of hardshell cases, softshell options often have a more casual and sporty appearance. Cost-wise, softshell cases are usually more affordable than their hardshell counterparts. 

Students and amateur musicians who are constantly on the move, juggling tight budgets and tighter travel schedules can opt for this can benefit from this more accessible option. On the downside, these cases can show signs of wear and tear more quickly compared to hardshell cases. They are more prone to stains, rips, and dirt, which, over time, may have an impact on their appearance. 

Furthermore, as someone who travels frequently, it’s important to be mindful that softshell cases are not always the best option for checked baggage or air travel. Airlines often handle luggage roughly, and the lighter construction of these bags doesn’t offer the needed protection. Also, if something heavy is placed on the case, there’s a risk the instrument inside could be damaged.

Hardshell Guitar Cases

On the other side of the spectrum are hardshell guitar cases. When it comes to protecting your instrument on the go, it’s hard to beat the reliability of these solid covers. Their rigid construction, thick walls, and sturdy latches offer more peace of mind than soft-shell alternatives. 

Next, due to their structural support and snug fit, these cases hold your instrument firmly in place, preventing it from moving around. Unlike soft models that can flex or give under pressure, hardshell ones stay solid and consistent. Many advanced models have internal suspension systems that cradle the instrument securely in place and provide a cushion against shocks and impacts. 

Furthermore, they often have extra reinforcements around the most vulnerable parts of the guitar, such as the bridge and neck areas, TSA-approved locks, and even Velcro neck restraints or anti-slip materials to ensure that the instrument does not move around. Style-wise, hardshell cases often come in sleek, professional designs, offering enhanced aesthetic appeal. Available in a variety of colours, finishes, and styles, these options appeal to musicians looking for a more refined appearance. 

However, hardshell cases also come with certain downsides that might make them less suitable for some musicians. Due to their rigid construction, they’re generally heavier than softshell options. The added protection also adds weight, which can be cumbersome for players who need to carry their cases for extended periods. Also, their bulkiness can be inconvenient for musicians who need to pack their instruments into tight car trunks, overhead compartments on aeroplanes, or crowded practice spaces. 

Which Case to Use

If you have a performance at a nearby venue, a gig bag will usually do the job of protecting your instrument. The same thing goes for when you live in a busy city and need to walk or take public transport to gigs. In these situations, again, you want to stick to a quality gig bag.  The convenience of being able to strap your instrument to your back while juggling amplifiers, pedalboards, and more is invaluable.

If you’re headed on a longer journey or flying out, you’ll want to protect the instruments as much as possible and go for a solid case. And when you’re off the road or between gigs, surprisingly, it’s always a good idea to place your instrument back in a hard case. That’s because when your instrument is sitting idle at home, it’s not just collecting dust, it’s dealing with everything from humidity changes to the occasional knock from a stand or maybe an over-enthusiastic family dog.

Over time, those small moments add up, so a good-quality, solid case helps keep future repairs firmly off your setlist.