Ideal foam padding for leather

[Anubis78]

Is it better to use open or closed cell foam for padding leather items?  Closed cell would be more firm and wouldn't retain moisture.  I'd assume that it would help in the prevention of molding.  Open cell foam would be more breathable, which I'd assume would breakdown and or flatten over time plus allow for moisture absorption. I'd also assume that you would not want moisture absorption for something inside of leather because it could draw the oils out of the leather and cause it to dry out easily.  I'd also assume that breathable foam could retain moisture and cause molding on the inside.  Maybe I'm overthinking this. Doe anyone have any experience with this?  Please advise.

[RockyAussie]

I've used open and closed and I have not had much problems with either. The product being made and what it does for for it is more the issue as to which to use. Open or closed come in a wide range of soft to hard ranges.What type of product are you wanting to pad. Brian

[kiwican]

good question, Ive been wondering the same thing as ive been contracted to make a padded camera strap

[Basically Bob]

I would not use open celled foam in any products worn next to the body (like guitar straps) ... sweat can be an issue.

Edited June 28, 2017 by Basically Bob

[CaptQuirk]

1 hour ago, Basically Bob said:

I would not use open celled foam in any products worn next to the body (like guitar straps) ... sweat can be an issue.

If it is sandwiched between two pieces of leather, and the leather is properly sealed, I'm thinking it would have to be drenched to be a problem?

[Basically Bob]

1 hour ago, CaptQuirk said:

If it is sandwiched between two pieces of leather, and the leather is properly sealed, I'm thinking it would have to be drenched to be a problem?

Seems to make sense, but I do know that a lot of guys on the bass players' forum I frequent, avoid padded straps because they eventually stink. That being said, others do use them. I have never used and will not use a padded strap, (just a personal preference) so I can not speak from personal experience.

Edited June 28, 2017 by Basically Bob

[Vapor Beast]

Would using the same techniques as padding a dog collar apply? I've seen neoprene used in that application. 

[CaptQuirk]

21 minutes ago, Basically Bob said:

Seems to make sense, but I do know that a lot of guys on the bass players' forum I frequent, avoid padded straps because they eventually stink. That being said, others do use them. I have never used and will not use a padded strap, (just a personal preference) so I can not speak from personal experience.

It seems to me, that they need to learn HOW to clean their leather, or at the very least, replace it with a new strap?

[billybopp]

I've made a few guitar straps with a deer hide lining, which is nice and soft with just a little give to it.  It gives just a little bit of padding.  If you were to find some deer tanned cow that's thicker than deer it would likely give even more padding.  Again, not quite as soft as a padded strap, but still a bit softer than veg tanned leather.  Mine have been made with the deer hide rough side out to help prevent the strap from sliding around - but you could do it grain side out to give just a bit more "slide".  Also, I haven't seen anybody else do it, but I put in a pick pocket on the back side as well - picks are right there when you need 'em.

 

Bill

[Basically Bob]

6 hours ago, CaptQuirk said:

It seems to me, that they need to learn HOW to clean their leather, or at the very least, replace it with a new strap?