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The Best Ratchet Belts For Men

Last updated on October 26, 2023

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Belts are a necessary part of a man’s wardrobe, but they often don’t get the credit they deserve. While they have a utilitarian function in keeping pants secure, they also visually tie the whole outfit together. They can elevate casual basics, define your waist, add structure to your look, or inject a pop of color.

When it comes to design, belts with holes have been the norm for decades. However, some people are starting to prefer ratchet belts to the traditional style because they can offer a better fit.

A ratchet belt features a unique design. Rather than using holes, they utilize a track system on the underside of a belt with teeth, a bit like a zipper. The belt buckle catches onto the track and clicks as it’s secured into place. Because the track features many more notches than a belt does, it can offer a closer and more secure fit, and it’s also easy to adjust. However, different manufacturers place notches differently, so some trial and error may be required.

MORE: 20 gifts for men that they actually want

The top side of the belt remains smooth-looking, so you can’t tell it’s a ratchet belt. You can style it just like a traditional belt depending on its material. Leather belts look great with dress pants, khakis or jeans while nylon belts go great with jeans and cargo pants.

Back in the day, one fashion rule told men you have to match your shoes to your belt. However, that’s no longer the case. Feel free to play with color if you like, but just do it cautiously. For example, it’s okay to wear a blue belt with black shoes. However, wearing a brown belt with brown shoes is also a safe fashion choice.

Our Picks For The Top Ratchet Belts For Men

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
  The Best Overall

BULLIANT Micro Size Adjustment Men’s Ratchet Belt

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

BULLIANT

Micro Size Adjustment Men’s Ratchet Belt

This high-quality, easily-adjustable ratchet belt for men is made from 100% leather and has a width of 1 3/8 inches. It comes in many different finishes and colors so you can choose how to best polish your look.

Overall Take

High QualityThis attractive and classic ratchet belt for men is made from 100% leather.

 Runner Up

Lavemi Trim To Fit Men’s Ratchet Belt

Lavemi

Trim To Fit Men’s Ratchet Belt

A total of 38 possible adjustments and a detachable buckle ensure this ratchet belt will fit you right, since you can trim the belt to get rid of extra material. Choose from stylish colors and buckle designs.

Overall Take

A Perfect FitChoose from 38 possible adjustments to create a perfect fit for this belt.

  The Best Value

FAIRWIN Nylon Webbing Men’s Ratchet Belt

FAIRWIN

Nylon Webbing Men’s Ratchet Belt

For a more casual vibe that's also versatile, you'll want this ratchet belt made from nylon. It's durable for everyday use as well as camping, hiking and traveling. The belt comes in attractive neutral and outdoorsy colors.

Overall Take

Casual LookThis ratchet belt for men is made from nylon, so it's perfect for a casual vibe.

 Also Consider

Marino Avenue Genuine Leather Men’s Ratchet Belt

Marino Avenue

Genuine Leather Men’s Ratchet Belt

With 38 unique notches, this ratchet belt for men is easily adjustable. It is carefully crafted from high-quality leather. The belt is 1 1/8 inches wide and has a zinc-alloy buckle that's scratch resistant and built to last.

Overall Take

Easily AdjustableDurability and adjustability are the prime features of this leather belt.

What to Look For

  • Having at least one black and one brown belt is a good idea for any wardrobe, no matter your fashion style. These colors are neutral and work with many different outfits. Bolder colors are also available, such as navy blue and burgundy, which look eye-catching and modern. Colors such as white and light gray also make a statement.
  • Consider the style of the belt buckle. Many belts have ones that match, but if you are adventurous with your fashion you can opt for a buckle that stands out a bit more. For example, you can find ratchet belts with buckles in patterns such as checkerboard, or in bright colors like red or baby blue.
  • Not sure what to get a loved one for a gift? Ratchet belts make excellent gifts because they are wallet-friendly, modern and fun. Plus, you don’t have to know the exact size the person wears — a general range of sizes will work.
  • Some ratchet belts are even more adjustable in size, since they are designed to be cut. With these, you can trim off the extra part of the belt strap so that you don’t have extra material to deal with.

More to Explore

It’s unclear exactly where the ratchet belt was invented, but most manufacturers agree that they came out of Asia and made their way into Europe and other countries back in the 1990s. They have also been called automatic buckles.

U.S. manufacturers started jumping on the bandwagon, and companies like SlideBelts continue to try to improve on the formula. Recently, ratchet belts have become more popular with younger generations, which is a good thing for consumers, since it means more styles, more colors, and more materials are available for ratchet belts than ever before.

More to explore