When selecting a radio strap, firefighters should consider several key factors.

Material Quality

The material used in the strap plays a major role in durability.

High-quality leather straps should use top quality leather and reinforced stitching to withstand years of use.

Adjustability

Different firefighters prefer different radio positions.

A good radio strap should allow for easy adjustment so firefighters can position their radio comfortably.

Hardware Strength

The buckles, rivets, and hardware used in a strap must be strong enough to handle daily use.

Quality hardware ensures the strap remains secure even under heavy movement.

Fit With Your Radio Model

Different radio models require different holster designs.

Before purchasing a radio strap, firefighters should confirm that the holster fits their specific radio.

Customization Options

Many firefighters prefer straps that allow customization.

Options such as name stamping, custom artwork, or department logos allow firefighters to personalize their gear.

Custom Firefighter Radio Straps

Custom firefighter radio straps have become increasingly popular across the fire service.

Customization allows firefighters to create gear that reflects both their department and their personal style.

Common customization options include:

• custom leather shields
• hand-painted artwork
• department names
• rank or company numbers
• personalized lettering

These features allow firefighters to carry gear that is both functional and meaningful.

Custom straps are also commonly given as:

• academy graduation gift
• retirement gift
• promotional gift
• company pride gear

Because of this, custom straps have become an important part of firefighter culture.

Firefighters typically wear their radio strap under their turnout gear so their portable radio stays secure, protected, and easy to access during operations. The strap runs diagonally across the firefighter’s torso, usually over the left shoulder and down to the right hip, positioning the radio holster where it can be reached quickly.

When worn correctly, the radio sits just below the bunker coat near the firefighter’s hip. This allows the radio to remain accessible while keeping it protected by the turnout coat and clear of the SCBA harness and other equipment. Wearing the strap under the coat also prevents the radio from getting caught on tools, ladders, or debris during fireground operations.

Most firefighters also attach an anti-sway strap from the radio holster to their bunker pants or belt. This keeps the radio close to the body and prevents it from swinging while moving, climbing ladders, or crawling during interior operations.

A properly fitted radio strap allows firefighters to keep their communication equipment secure while maintaining full mobility on the fireground.

Typical firefighter radio strap setup:

• Strap worn over the left shoulder and across the chest
• Radio holster positioned at the right hip
• Radio worn under the bunker coat for protection
• Anti-sway strap attached to the bunker pants or belt

When adjusted correctly, a firefighter radio strap keeps the radio in a consistent position that is easy to reach during emergency operations.