Guide to Anti-theft Carmel Straps: Difference & Which to Pick

The Carmel Convertible Backpack is designed to be versatile and convient so that you can switch up the style though-out your trip to meet your needs.

There are three options for straps that come with the bag. This blog post is to break down each one so you can pick the perfect one for you!

@ardencove comparing the microfiber faux leather wide strap and jacquard short strap for the Carmel Backpack 🎒 Carmel Convertible Backpack ⛓️ faux leather wide strap & jacquard short strap #backpack #minibackpack #minibackpacks #minibackpackmonday #purse #pursecollection #pursetok #pursecollector #travel #travellife #traveltok #travelbag #travelbackpack #travelpurse #ardencove #antitheft #waterresistant #theftresistant #pickpocket #foryou #foryoupage #fyp #fypシ ♬ original sound - Arden Cove

Comparison of Carmel Backpack Straps

Carmel Strap Options Comparison of Jacquard vs Faux Leather Wide Strap

Name	Microfiber Faux Leather Wide Strap with Classic Hardware	Microfiber Faux Leather Wide Strap with Locking Hardware	Jacquard Short Strap with Locking Hardware
Photo
Length	Adjustable Total Length 25.5" - 43.5" (64.8 - 110.5 cm) Drop Length 12.5" - 21.5" (31.7 - 54.6 cm)	Adjustable Total Length 25.5" - 43.5" (64.8 - 110.5 cm) Drop Length 12.5" - 21.5" (31.7 - 54.6 cm)	Adjustable Total Length 23"-29" (58.4 - 73.7 cm) Drop Length 10"-13" (25.4 - 33.0 cm)
Features	Vegan Leather with reinforced steel cable for slash resistance Adjustable for backpack, crossbody, or shoulder bag	Vegan Leather with reinforced steel cable for slash resistance Adjustable for backpack, crossbody, or shoulder bag Custom Arden Cove Locking Hardware to close the clasp onto bag or chair	Woven wide strap for all day comfort Customer Arden Cove Locking Hardware to close the clasp onto bag or chair D-ring to attach small coin pouch Adjustable to wear as backpack or short shoulder bag Shorter than the Faux Leather Wide strap so a good option if you like your backpack more flush to your back, but likely too short for crossbody wear.

Which Strap to Choose?

Both the Faux Leather Wide Strap and the Jacquard Short Strap will work for a backpack and one strap can be taken off and moved to turn into a purse.

Length of Straps

Please note that while both are adjustable, the Faux Leather Wide Strap is longer and likely a better fit if you want the strap to be both backpack and a crossbody bag. On the other hand, if you prefer the strap to be tighter on your back or you need the shorter length, you may prefer the Jacquard Strap.

We do suggest measuring to see what length you'd prefer, as everyone's body and preference can differ. If it is not long enough, we have longer straps like the regular Jacquard Strap and Faux Leather Strap, which are designed specifically for a crossbody and can be added to your order.

Material Appearance & Feel

The next consideration is what material you like the look and feel of. Both are high quality and smooth and this is a personal preference. Some prefer the more luxe look for leather straps, while others like a more casual and sporty jacquard strap. If you wear a lot of thin straps or strapless shirts/ dresses consider your weather and which feel you like better on your skin.

Durability

Both straps are made with high quality materials with durability in mind, and are made to last several years and more. However if you are frequently travel in a hot humid or rainy climate, and the straps will be in extended contact with sweat, salt, or fragrance, the Jacquard strap material is more durable and resistant to these chemicals.

When not in use please store bags and straps in a protective dust bag in a dark dry space in your closet.

Safety & Anti-theft Features

In terms of safety features, both have an option of a locking strap for extra security. (Classic vs Locking Hardware Guide) The Microfiber Wide Strap is reinforced with a steel cable to make it more slash resistance but adds stiffness to the strap. The Jacquard Short Strap does not have a steel cable and is very flexible and comfortable. In general, we don't find that slashing is a problem with wider straps such as these as this is generally a technique that targets thin leather straps which are easier to cut.

Photo Gallery

Side by Side Comparison

Faux Leather Wide Strap

Gallery includes photos of both locking and classic hardware as the two straps are identical in length and width. The only difference is the hardware on the ends. (Classic vs Locking Hardware Guide)