Hard case vs. gig bag
Getting a gig bag is always tempting when it comes to carrying your ukulele. They do have their advantages as they tend to be lighter than hardshell cases, and they are easier to store when you are not using them. For shorter trips, they can be a good idea.
Where they have a big disadvantage, however, the amount of protection that they provide. Hardshell cases provide a lot more protection from all angles. This means they are still easy to transport, and you don’t have to be as paranoid about something happening to your ukulele.
Both types deserve attention, and the choice depends on how far you are traveling and how much protection you want. If you want to keep the ukulele in the best possible condition, then choosing a hardshell case, such as the Gearlux Soprano Ukulele Case, will always be the best way to go.
How to pick the best ukulele case
First, you should decide which features are going to be the most important to you. You should begin with the type of case and then move to its weight, extra storage space, and so on.
As we go through these sections, it’s a good idea to note how essential each feature is to you. That way, once you get to the end you’ll have a clear idea of exactly how to pick the best ukulele case.
What ukulele type you do want this for?
It’s vital to know that there are four main types of ukuleles. They are soprano, concert, tenor and baritone with all four having different sizes. There are also other custom ukulele sizes that might not fit into these standard categories.
Due to that, it’s vital that you know the type and dimensions of your ukulele.
Ideally, you want to have a snug fit so that the ukulele doesn’t rattle around in the case while you are carrying it. If there is a bit of play, then something like a towel or a foam rubber would be able to keep it tight.
The padding will protect the upper layer of your ukulele, which will prevent any scratches or peeling.
Materials
When it comes to hardshell cases, they will most likely be either made from wood, durable plastic or fiberglass. They all offer a high level of protection. A lot of people like wooden cases as it feels more traditional.
Many of these cases are then covered with a material such as tolex, as we see with the Carrion C-1640 Black Hardshell Case, which is the leather-like material that can be usually found on books, amplifiers and upholstery. This gives it more cushioning while being waterproof and flexible.
The usual choice of the materials for the interior of a case is foam padding with a plush lining. This will resist any impacts, and the plush or velvet lining will then prevent the ukulele from scratches.
Weight
The weight of a ukulele case is going to be vital as the whole point of them is to be transported from one place to another, and that would be very difficult if they are too heavy. That being said, the heavier a case is, the more protection it often provides.
You want to check the weight and see if it will be easy enough for you to carry.
Ukuleles aren’t the heaviest of instruments, and therefore, the weight shouldn’t be a problem, even with thick hardshell cases.
If you are concerned about weight, getting a light soft case would be the way to go.
Color
While the color isn’t going to change the way that your ukulele is protected, everyone likes to have personalized items that look impressive, and the color is a part of that. Most of these cases, however, will just come in a standard black color.
There are a few models out there, which do come in a wide range of colors. The Crossrock Soprano Case, for example, comes in seven different colors as well as having different finishes. If you want something a little more personal, that’s a brilliant option.
Straps
You’re only going to want to use the handle of your ukulele case for shorter periods of time, as it’s not the most comfortable way of transporting it. Straps will give your shoulders the workloads, and carrying it is going to be a lot easier.
You need to make a choice between a single shoulder strap and a backpack style of carrying your case. The backpack style, as the Kala Foam Hardcase for Tenor Ukulele has, offers you the highest level of support, but the single shoulder strap is also convenient.
Handle
The handle is an underrated but vital part of how you will be carrying the case. It needs to not only be comfortable but strong enough to handle the weight. Most of these models will have a plastic handle or one wrapped in leather.
You want the handle to have a rounded edge and be wide enough to have a comfortable grip. This will make it easy to carry. The handle should so be at the center of the weight so that it is well balanced while you’re walking.
Fastening
It can be depressing when you are traveling with your case, and suddenly your latches break. The same can be said for a zipper system, so the first part you want to check is if they are of high quality. After that, it’s seen more as a matter of personal preference.
Latches like on the Glarry 26 Inch Python Case are often used for musical instruments as they have a firm lock, which allows for a snug fit. If one of them fails, you’ll still be able to use the case. Zips can be a good idea to open the case faster.
It’s up to you which one you’d prefer. It’s also worth considering whether you need a lock on your ukulele case or not. This can ensure that your instrument always stays in place.
Storage space
Of course, when you’re traveling, you won’t be doing so with just your ukulele. You’ll need to take along other accessories such as your capo and tuner. Every bag should be able to give you a good amount of storage space.
Most models, just like the Crossrock CRA800SUBL Case, have internal storage boxes where you can place your items with confidence.
There are also cases like the Gearlux Ukulele Case, that have an additional accessory pocket at the front, which is a good solution to give you more than enough room for all of your things.
Prices
As with any product, you have budget options, premium models and somewhere in between.
For a budget option, the Glarry 26 Inch Python Case is an excellent case at just over $30 as it gives you a high level of protection whilst it is easy to carry, which isn’t always true for cases with this price tag.
If you’re looking for something a bit better, the Carrion C-1640 Black Hardshell Ukulele Case would be a great call at around $50 as this has a bit more quality and style. If you put your ukulele in this, then you’re going to be confident that it’ll be undamaged when you get it out.
If you’re looking for the absolute best quality, then it’s hard to look past the Crossrock ABS Soprano Ukulele Hard-Shell Case at around $75. This is a very strong case made from high-quality materials, and the top-notch padding will keep your ukulele secure. Additionally, it looks stylish and has an impressive build quality.