The Case for Buying an Instrument Case

For many years what passed as a case for a guitar, mandolin or other stringed instrument was nothing more than a chip-board box. These flimsy containers provided little to no protection against physical damage and were not reliable for insulating against excessive heat or a dry climate, like Colorado.

Today we are fortunate to have more case options for protecting our acoustic instruments. The advancements in case design have yielded choices like the gig bag, foam cases, hard shell cases and flight cases. By choosing the case that is suited to your needs, your musical instrument is sure to stay safe and provide you years of enjoyment.

Here are some instrument case examples and the level of protection they provide.

Gig Bags

For ease of transportation nothing beats a padded gig bag. These lightweight cases provide basic protection against damage and usually offer pockets for storage and backpack straps, making carrying an instrument and gear a lot easier. Gig bags are a good choice if you are traveling in your car around town with your instrument and require a basic level of protection.

Hard Foam Cases and Hard Shell Cases

Space exploration has yielded innovations including Tang breakfast drink, memory foam and ear thermometers. It also produced the technology that led to hard foam cases - an upgrade from the gig bag - with a firm frame, soft lining and fabric cover. Hard foam cases provide more protection for musical instruments than a gig bag and are still lightweight and easy to transport.

A step up from the hard foam case is the more robust hard shell case. Made from wood, plastic or carbon fiber products, these cases do a better job protecting musical instruments and insulating them against environmental factors. Going on the road or moving into a new place? Planning to store your instrument for a while? Your best choice is a hard shell case to safeguard your instrument. These cases help keep the humidity more constant and avoid cracking.

Flight Cases

At the top of the instrument case food chain are flight cases. These are specially hardened cases designed to withstand the rigors of travel by professional musicians and the handling by airline companies. They are typically heavy and expensive but offer the maximum protection on the market.

We Can Help You Choose the Right Case

The dedicated staff at the Denver Folklore Center is here to help you choose the right case for your musical instrument. We will consult with you regarding the level of protection your instrument requires and guide you through the process to select the right case. Contact us today at 303.777.4786 and info@denverfolklore.com.