When it comes to hiking, comfort and practicality are key. As a company that offers both hiking suspenders and hiking belts, we often get asked which is the better option for hikers. The answer? Well, it depends! Both suspenders and belts have their own unique advantages.
Today, we’ll be breaking down each style to help you decide which one works best for your next adventure.
The Case for Belts
Belts are a tried-and-true solution for keeping your hiking pants in place. They offer a simple, familiar system for adjusting fit and come in a variety of colors and patterns that suit different preferences. Whether you're heading out for a quick day hike or tackling a multi-day backpacking trip, belts for hiking are a versatile addition to your gear. But are they the best choice for everyone? Let's take a closer look.
Advantages of Hiking Belts:-
Micro-adjustability: Our lightweight hiking belts are easy to adjust on the fly. Constructed with a micro-adjustable buckle that dials into your exact fit, our hiking belts follow the curve of your form for maximum comfort without digging, pinching, or chafing.
-
Travel Friendly: Because our elastic hiking belts are metal free, you don’t have to worry about taking them off through airport security checkpoints– unlike our belt suspenders that feature metal clips.
The Case for Suspenders
Like our belts, we take function, durability, and comfort seriously when it comes to suspenders. No matter what type of outdoor recreation you enjoy the most, quality suspenders hold your pants up with no slip metal clips designed to hold tight without damaging fabric. Whether you’re climbing up steep inclines or simply need more comfort for extended wear, suspenders bring something different to the table.
Advantages of Hiking Suspenders:
-
Even Weight Distribution: Unlike hiking belts, suspenders distribute the weight of your hiking pants more evenly across your shoulders, reducing pressure on your waist and hips. This can be a huge comfort win, especially on multi-day hikes or when carrying heavy packs.
-
Easy Layering: One of the lesser-known benefits of suspenders is how well they work with layering. Unlike belts that can get in the way or feel bulky under multiple layers, suspenders sit comfortably over your base layer and underneath your outerwear. This means you can easily adjust your clothing for warmth or ventilation without having to worry about loosening a belt or tugging at your waistband.
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between stretch suspenders and hiking belts comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a piece of gear that’s versatile enough to transition from trail to town while also serving as a travel friendly accessory, a hiking belt might be the way to go. If you’re looking for a secure, no-slip fit, we recommend trying suspenders.
However, whichever option you choose, both suspenders and belts have something to offer. The best part? You don’t have to pick just one! Many hikers switch between belts and suspenders depending on their personal preferences that day. Before heading out on your next hike, be sure to take a look at the colors and styles available in both our hiking suspenders and hiking belts.
