I'm around 5.9" and the measurements I gave were 38 cm I believe, it was from pelvis bone to top of the pad hat.
I used them last night and I was using them for the first time and they were perfect, didn't feel bulky or anything like that. However, in rush I didn't wear them properly but they were superb, I highly recommend them.
Not too sure what you are asking about straps, the pads has velcro and the strap just sticks with velcro from any part (hope that made sense :S) ;
This picture might explain the strapping;