Choosing the right tactical belt: Top features and recommendations

Nov 02, 2024

If you’re in the market for a new tactical belt and want to select the right one for the job, then you have some homework to do. The good news is that there are more quality belts available today than ever before in our profession. The bad news is that with so many choices, it becomes difficult to wade through the fluff to find the belt that meets your needs. A tactical belt can be anything you use as a duty belt for patrol, a belt for SWAT or general training, or an everyday carry (EDC) belt designed to be durable, comfortable, and good-looking.

But fear not! While I haven’t had the chance to wear and abuse all the gear available, I’ve tried a lot of the products on the market and have seen gear both work and fail on the range, in classes, and in competition. Before getting into specific recommendations, here are a few features to ensure your tactical belt meets your expectations and the demands of your job while providing the durability, comfort, and functionality you require.

Consider the following five features:

1. Durability and material: Look for belts made from high-quality, rugged materials such as nylon, reinforced polymer, or top-grain leather. These materials ensure the belt can withstand the demands of your job without fraying or breaking.

2. Comfort and fit: The belt should have adjustable sizing for a secure fit and to ensure comfort during long shifts. Padded or pre-shaped belts can provide added comfort, especially when carrying additional gear.

3. Load-bearing capacity: Ensure the belt can support the weight of your equipment including medical tools, pouches and radios. Check for reinforced stitching and strong buckle mechanisms.

4. Accessibility and organization: Look for a belt with multiple attachment points, MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing, or methods for securing various pouches and holsters. This allows you to organize your gear efficiently and access it quickly when you need it.

5. Safety and security: Consider belts with quick-release buckles for easy removal in case of an emergency, but ensure these mechanisms are secure enough to prevent accidental release during regular use and while in close quarters.

Here are some of my top picks for tactical belts:

In the realm of tactical belts, the Point Blank Patrol Belt and Gun Belt Systems are unique. You decide whether you want to wear the hook side of the hook and loop next to your body or away from your body. The underbelt and the duty belt are completely reversible. You even get to choose between attaching accessory pouches using MOLLE or the innovative Point Blank Tac-Wraps. The Point Blank Patrol Belt System is available in the standard 2 1/4” belt width and the Gun Belt System is a 1.75” belt.

Specifically designed for maximum comfort, stability and reliability with a 1.75" width and an ergonomic curve, this inner/outer belt system provides unbeatable support and fit. The inner belt, made of nylon webbing, securely attaches to the outer belt via a loop face, eliminating the discomfort and bulk of poorly designed belts. The outer belt features high-strength laminate on top of double nylon webbing for added durability and security. The Austri Alpin COBRA buckles ensure quick attachment and removal without compromising the overall strength of the belt.

As professionals, we need gear we can count on in any situation. With a durable pre-curved nylon webbing strap (reinforced with PE board) and an Austrian-made Cobra quick-release belt buckle that can handle up to 4,000 lbs of force, this belt is built to withstand the rigors of extreme daily use. The quick-release function provides easy on and off, so you can focus on the task at hand. The durable construction ensures this belt will be a reliable companion for years to come. Don’t settle for a flimsy belt that can’t keep up.

Women’s belts for plain clothes and EDC can be hard to find, but the Nexbelt Savannah series of women’s belts provides the perfect blend of function and fashion. Instead of a belt with holes, the Savannah Belt is a ratchet belt providing greater adjustability and strength compared to traditional belts. It includes a high-grade aluminum buckle which can be swapped out with other buckles for a custom touch. It’s available in either black or brown and cut to size for a perfect fit. To make a good belt even better, the Savannah Ratchet Belt is protected by a one-year warranty.

The Shooter’s Belt is a reinforced dress belt purposefully designed for EDC and looking sharp. It’s part of the Gould & Goodrich Gold Line of concealment holsters and belts featuring top grain leather combined with reinforced stitching to make this belt an excellent choice for when you want to carry comfortably and look good doing it. It provides a firm platform for a smooth draw and all-day comfort without the uncomfortable sag like other dress belts. It’s available in 1¼” or 1½” widths and your choice of nickel or brass buckle.

The definition of a tactical belt can vary depending on your needs. So, whether you’re looking for a padded battle belt, a comfortable new duty belt, or a good looking dress belt, these are all solid choices. These tactical belts are designed to be comfortable, supportive, and durable so you can focus on your mission.