Traditional vs. Stretch Web Belts: What’s the Difference?

Posted by Sasha W. on

Since our founding, our goal has been to change the way you think about belts. To design a belt that was built to be, well, better than the traditional leather belts we’re used to, our team of designers analyzed the limitations of traditional non-stretch belt design in order to develop a belt designed to go anywhere and everywhere. This design eventually became our stretch web belts, available in a variety of styles. 

So, what exactly sets our elastic stretch belts apart from traditional belt design? Let’s get into it: 

1. Performance 

Traditional non-stretch belts are usually constructed from leather and metal, materials that are both restrictive and heavy when you’re on the move. 

When developing our elastic belts, we thought long and hard about the materials we wanted to use, rigorously testing a variety of different webbing and buckle materials until we found a combination that really works: our performance stretch webbing constructed from REPREVE recycled yarn and a low-profile high density plastic buckle, materials that free, rather than restrict, your movements. 

2. Versatility 

Traditional leather belts are often limited in everything from their design to the colors and styles available. 


Whether we’re on the trail or around town, we wanted our line of belts to encapsulate the adventurous spirit of its wearer with bold, personality-packed designs that combine performance with effortless style. As a result, our designs, particularly in our lifestyle collection, are versatile enough to deliver best-in-class performance with an emphasis on style. 

3. Lightweight Design 

We’re firm believers that your gear shouldn’t hold you back. That’s why we chose to construct our belts that stretch from materials that are lightweight enough to stay comfortable all day without compromising on durability– a departure from traditional belt design that often includes heavy metal buckles. 

4. Comfort 

One of our founding principles is that freedom of movement leads to freedom of mind. To us, comfort plays a big role in freedom of movement, as you can’t perform your best when you don’t feel your best. 

Our stretchy belts are built with flexible webbing and a low-profile, contoured buckle design that offers a fit that’s both secure and comfortable. 

5. Buckle Design 

Unlike bulky metal buckles that can be uncomfortable and heavy, our stretch web belts feature low-profile, high-density plastic buckles that are lightweight and durable. These buckles hold securely while in use and release with less pressure, creating both on-the-go convenience and all-day comfort.

6. Machine Washable 

We get it– at the end of a long day, convenience is valuable. Unlike traditional leather belts, which require special care, our stretch web belts can simply be thrown in the wash with the rest of your gear for an easy clean. Many of our customers even prefer to keep their belt in the loops of their pants for added convenience. 

7. Travel Friendly 

We all know the drill when going through airport security: take off your shoes, belt, jacket, and any other metal accessory you’re wearing. In situations like these, the ability to leave just one accessory on feels momentous. But what if we told you that you could leave your belt on through airport security? 

It’s true– because our stretch web belts are constructed without metal, they can be kept on through airport security checkpoints. This makes them the perfect choice for anyone from the frequent flier looking for added convenience to the occasional traveler looking for an accessory that makes navigating the airport that much easier. 

8. Custom Fit 

Traditional belts typically use pre-set holes, which offer limited adjustability and can lead to a fit that’s too loose or too tight– and is hard to adjust when you add or remove layers during the day. 

Our stretch web belts feature a micro-adjustable dial that allows you to dial in your exact fit, no matter how many layers you’re wearing. 

9. Recycled Materials 

At Arcade, we strive to make a positive impact in the places we find adventure. To do so, we prioritize sustainable materials in the creation of our belts, using REPREVE, the leading brand of recycled performance grade fiber to offer both uncompromising function and a reduced carbon footprint.

By the end of this year, we expect to repurpose over three million plastic bottles and reduce 300 kilograms of Co2 emissions, making a difference with every fiber. 

10. Ultra Durable 

We’re firm believers that your gear should be able to keep up with you, and our stretch web belts are no different. We designed the buckle systems on our webbing belts from ultra-durable high-density molded plastic that’s truly adventure-grade, and made to move. 

Adventures that break boundaries require gear that does, too. Arcade continues to revolutionize how belts can function better in every aspect of life, making a positive impact on the environment and communities along the way. Join the revolution by shopping our stretch web belts. 

Shop Stretch Web Belts

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