Short answer: to find your crossbody strap length, put the bag where you want it to sit, then measure with a soft tape from the top of your shoulder, diagonally across your chest, to the spot on the opposite hip where the bag should rest. That number, in centimeters, is the strap length. Between sizes, round up; a strap you can shorten is better than one that's too short.
Key facts
- Measure over the clothes you'll wear; a winter coat adds several centimeters.
- Where the bag sits changes the length: high on the chest is short, on the hip is long.
- Body shape matters: chest and shoulder width change the diagonal more than height.
- Adjustable straps cover most people; a custom length removes the extra webbing and the buckle hunting.
- Re-measure if you change how you wear it, say from hip carry to chest carry.
How to measure, step by step
- Put on the jacket or shirt you'll wear most with the bag.
- Decide where the bag rides: chest, waist or hip.
- Start the tape at the top of the shoulder that carries the strap.
- Run it diagonally across your chest to the opposite side, ending where the top of the bag should be.
- Read it in centimeters and round up to the next whole number.
Typical positions
| Position | Good for | Strap feel |
|---|---|---|
| High on the chest | Crowds, travel, cycling short distances | Short, snug, very stable |
| At the waist, in front | Everyday city carry | Medium, easy to open |
| On the hip | Walking, errands | Longer, relaxed |
| Behind, on the back | Open streets, bikes | Medium to long; swing it front in crowds |
Standard or custom length?
The ICONTACTIC Modular Crossbody Bag comes with two strap options. Standard is the regular wide adjustable strap. Custom length is cut to the centimeters you enter at checkout and made to order, measured exactly as above: from the top of your shoulder, diagonally across the chest, to the spot on the opposite hip where the bag should sit. The bag's four anchor points let it ride front, back, left or right, and a 360-degree rotating quick-release buckle keeps the strap from twisting.
Fit check after it arrives
- Walk, sit and climb stairs: the bag shouldn't bounce or slide around to your back.
- Open the zip with the bag on; you should reach every compartment without taking it off.
- In crowds, it should swing to the front in one motion.
Packing it next? See how to pack a crossbody for a city day and the anti-theft travel crossbody setup.
FAQ
How long should a crossbody strap be?
Long enough to reach from the top of your shoulder, diagonally across the chest, to where you want the bag on the opposite hip.
How do I measure for a crossbody strap?
With a soft tape, over your usual clothes, from the top of the shoulder diagonally to the target spot on the opposite hip, in centimeters.
Should a crossbody sit on the hip or the waist?
Waist or chest is easier to reach and safer in crowds; the hip is more relaxed for walking.
What if I'm between two lengths?
Round up. A slightly long strap can be worn higher; a short one can't be lengthened.
Can I wear a crossbody on my back?
Yes, on open streets. Swing it to the front in crowds and on transit.
Shop Bags & Packs.
Custom-length straps are made to the measurement entered at checkout. Check the product page for current options.