The team at Arcade knows that a belt is only as strong, as comfortable, and as functional as its buckle. While most people focus on fabric or style, we’ve found that one of the most overlooked elements of any belt is the buckle—especially when it comes to belts built to perform.
It’s not just about keeping your pants up. The buckle is the heart of any belt’s function, comfort, and performance. And because our belts are built for people in motion, we’ve pushed the boundaries to create buckles that are just as innovative as the webbing they support.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes our buckles truly Arcade-worthy:
The A2 Buckle System
Not every adventure calls for the same solution. That’s where our A2 buckle system comes in. Found on many of our Adventure Stretch Belts, the A2 buckle is made from high-density plastic that is both incredibly durable and exceptionally lightweight.
Why the A2 Buckle Stands Out:
- Metal-Free Convenience: Perfect for travel, the A2 buckle is TSA-friendly, so you can breeze through airport security without stopping to remove your belt.
- Micro-Adjustability: Like all Arcade buckles, the A2 system allows for precise, infinite adjustments—no traditional holes, no awkward fits.
- Adventure-Ready Durability: It’s built to withstand mud, water, snow, and sun. Plus, the entire belt is machine washable, making it ideal for outdoor pursuits.
The Hardware Buckle
For those who demand toughness without sacrificing comfort, our Hardware Buckle rises to the challenge. Found in our Utility Collection, this buckle is built for rugged environments—whether you're on the job site, in the backcountry, or tackling hands-on work where durability matters most.
The Hardware Buckle is crafted from high-density, high-tensile strength plastic that outperforms traditional zinc alloy buckles. Designed to handle serious pressure without adding bulk, it provides the strength you need while maintaining comfort and flexibility.
And like all of our designs, it’s a belt without holes—allowing for infinite adjustability without the bulky hardware of ratchet belts.
Why the Hardware Buckle Stands Out:
- Stiff Performance Stretch: Paired with our abrasion-resistant, tightly woven webbing, the Hardware Buckle supports heavier apparel, gear, or tools while allowing for essential movement and comfort.
- Ultra-Durable Buckle Material: Made from high-density plastic, this buckle is engineered to withstand more pressure than typical metal buckles, all while resisting rust, chipping, and breakage.
- Enhanced Grip & Anti-Slip Technology: The Hardware Buckle is designed with ridged grips and an anti-slip interior, making it easy to adjust and secure—even when you’re wearing gloves or working in tough conditions.
The Hardware Alu Buckle
A new addition to the Utility category, the Hardware Alu belt features the superior strength and durability of original Hardware, with a low-profile buckle system. But rather than the original Hardware belt’s high-tensile strength plastic buckle design, this buckle system is crafted from 7000 series aluminum—the same material trusted in aerospace and high-performance sports equipment.
Why did we choose this alloy? Here's why:
- Very High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: 7000 series aluminum is one of the strongest aluminum alloys available—stronger than the zinc alloys commonly found in standard buckles, yet significantly lighter than steel. This gives you a belt that’s ultra-durable but won’t weigh you down.
- Exceptional Fatigue Resistance: Whether you’re bending, twisting, or reaching, your belt is designed to flex with you. 7000 series aluminum offers excellent resistance to material fatigue, meaning it can handle years of repeated movement without weakening.
- Superior Wear Resistance and Hardness: Unlike a traditional ratchet belt buckle, which often relies on complex mechanical tracks that can fail or jam, the Hardware Alu offers simple, dependable adjustability with a low-profile look. It resists scratches, dings, and dents, keeping its sleek appearance no matter how hard you push it.
- Precision Machinability: Despite its strength, 7000 series aluminum machines beautifully, allowing us to achieve clean lines, tight tolerances, and smooth adjustability—everything you expect from a belt designed for motion.
From the materials we choose to the way each buckle is machined, each one of our belts is a product of intention. We don’t cut corners or settle for standard-issue parts. Instead, we test, tweak, and fine-tune until we land on hardware that’s built to last, to move, and to reflect the adventurous spirit of those who wear it.
Explore our full belt collection to find the buckle (and the belt) that best fits your lifestyle.
