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- Joshua
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Whether you're looking to replace a worn-out belt or determine the specifications of your current one, this step-by-step guide will help you accurately measure and identify the right belt or replacement strap for your needs.
STEP-01
Find your Correct BELT SIZE
Many customers confuse belt size with belt length, but the belt size is the correct measurement to provide when ordering a new or replacement belt strap.
To measure your belt size, thread a measuring tape through your pant or skirt loops (without wearing a belt) and wrap it around your waist. Take a deep breath to avoid a tight fit, then measure your waist to find the right size.
For more ways to determine your correct belt size, check out these resources:
This table is for reference only and should not be used as a substitute for accurate belt sizing. For precise measurements, please refer to our detailed Belt Size Guides above.
Belt Size vs Overall Belt Length
STEP-02
How to Identify your Correct BELT WIDTH
When ordering a belt or replacement strap or a new belt, identifying or choosing the correct belt width is crucial for ensuring a proper fit and function.
How to Measure Belt Width:
- Lay the Belt Flat: Place the belt on a flat surface, ensuring it is straight and not twisted.
- Use a Caliper or Measuring Tape: Measure from one side of the belt to the other, across its width.
- Measure the full width from edge to edge.
- Record the measurement in millimeters (MM) or inches (IN), depending on your preference.
If using a caliper, place it on the edges of the belt for an accurate reading. This method is often more precise.
If using a measuring tape, start from the 1-inch or 1-cm mark instead of the very end to avoid inaccuracies caused by the metal tab.
| COMMON BELT WIDTHS | |
| Women | Men |
| 13MM, 20MM, 24MM 30/32MM, 37/38MM 40/45MM | 30/32MM, 35MM 37/38MM 40MM, 42MM |
STEP-03
Identify the Correct BELT STRAP THICKNESS
The thickness of a belt strap plays a crucial role in its durability, flexibility, and how well it fits into belt loops or buckles. Choosing the correct thickness is especially important when replacing a strap or ordering a custom belt.
Most Precise – Use a Caliper
The most accurate way to measure belt thickness is with a digital caliper. Place the caliper at the thickest part of the strap and gently squeeze to get the measurement. Be sure to measure on a flat, non-buckled section of the belt.
Less Precise – Use a Measuring Tape
If a caliper is unavailable, you can use a measuring tape to estimate thickness. Wrap the tape around the edge of the belt and note the measurement, though this method is less precise. Belt thickness is typically measured in millimeters (MM) or fractions of an inch. Most leather belt straps fall between 2.5MM and 5MM thick.
| COMMON BELT THICKNESS | |
| 2.5MM to 5MM for standard and exotic leather belts | |
| 2/2.4MM to 3.4/3.6MM for buckles from brands like Ferragamo, Gucci, Tom Ford, LV, Hermès, or Montblanc. | |
STEP-04
Prong HEIGHT VARIATIONS in Detachable Snap-on Anchor Buckles
For certain Hermès H Detachable buckles, the prong height can vary from 7-8mm to the most common 10-11mm, depending on the production type across different years.
Although these dimensions are fairly standard, in rare cases, variations may occur with other brands as well. If in doubt, it’s always a good idea to measure the prong height using a ruler or caliper.
How to Measure Prong Height
- Prepare your tool: Use a precise ruler or a caliper for accuracy.
- Locate the prong: Identify the metal piece that connects the buckle to the strap.
- Measure the height: Position your tool at the base of the prong and measure straight to the top.
- Record the measurement: Compare it to the expected dimensions (e.g., 7-8mm or 10-11mm).
Our Atelier, with over 50 years of experience, has encountered an extensive range of cases and is familiar with most standards.
However, checks are essential for exceptions, as various brands have occasionally changed their standards over the years.
STEP-05
Determine the Correct BUCKLE LENGTH
Accurately measuring buckle length is essential when ordering a new belt or replacement strap, as it directly affects the belt's fit and functionality.
Understanding Buckle Length
Buckle length refers to the distance from the tip of the buckle (where the strap fastens) to the point where it connects to the belt. This measurement typically includes the buckle frame, prong (if applicable), and any connecting hardware.
- For detachable buckles: remove the belt to make measuring easier.
- For non-detachable buckles: measure directly on the belt.
How to Measure Buckle Length
- Lay the buckle flat on a surface.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure from the tip of the buckle (the end that fastens through the belt holes) to where the buckle connects to the belt (buckle bar or hinge point).
For more details, check out our blog for a comprehensive guide on buckle types.
Check for Adjustable or Detachable Buckles
- For detachable buckles, include any additional hardware, such as screws or connecting bars, in your measurement.
- For adjustable buckles (e.g., clamp-style), measure the main part of the buckle without adjusting the mechanism to avoid inaccurate measurements.
Buckle Length and Belt Sizing
When determining belt sizing, buckle length is often included in the total belt length. If you're ordering a custom belt or replacement strap, subtract the buckle length from the total belt length to calculate the strap size.
Belt Size = Total Belt Length – Buckle Length
STEP-06
How measure and choose the correct BELT HOLE DIAMETER
The hole diameter in a belt is essential for both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring the buckle prong fits properly while maintaining the belt’s durability. Whether making a custom belt, replacing an old one, or modifying a strap, getting the right hole size is crucial.
Standard Hole Diameters Classic or exotic belts, standard hole diameters are typically 3.0MM, 3.5MM, or 4.0MM.
Number of Belt Holes 5 For classic or exotic belts - 3 Hermès Standard
The standard spacing between belt holes is 25MM (approximately 1INCH), allowing for incremental size adjustments. Belts with different hole spacing are rare.
Ensure the hole fits the buckle prong by following these measurement steps:
- Remove the Belt from the Buckle (if applicable): Detach the belt for easier access to the prong.
- Measure the Prong: Use a caliper or ruler to measure the prong’s diameter at its thickest point. This gives you the minimum hole size required.
- Allow for Extra Space: The hole diameter should be slightly larger than the prong for ease of use. As a general rule, add 0.5mm to the prong measurement to ensure a comfortable fit without being too tight or loose.
Measure the current hole diameter, if you need, when replacing an existing belt:
- Use a Caliper, Ruler, or Hole Punch Template to measure the diameter of one of the holes in the belt.
- Measure the Inner Diameter: Measure from edge to edge across the hole.
If the belt is worn or stretched, opt for a slightly smaller hole diameter to ensure a snug fit for the new belt.
STEP-07
Choose your FRONT-END BELT TIP SHAPE
The front-end tip shape of a belt primarily serves an aesthetic purpose, with a subtle functional role. Different tip shapes can influence the overall look of the belt, how smoothly it passes through belt loops, and how it fits with the buckle.
When ordering a replacement strap, you can select a tip shape that matches the original designer belt or opt for one that suits your personal style. For a detailed guide on the most common front-end belt tip shapes, check out our blog.
Recently, designers like Hermès have favored two common front-end belt tip shapes: the classic Square (A) and the Tapered (B), with many customers still preferring the Classic Square (A), even in recent years.
