Pin Belt vs Ratchet Belt: Pin and Clip Belts Explained
Quick answer: A pin belt (also called a pin buckle or pin frame belt) closes with a prong that passes through a hole in the strap, so it fits at fixed steps. A ratchet belt has no holes and adjusts in small increments. Hedonist Chicago's pin and clip belts use a toothed clip buckle with a 1.55 in strap ($44), and straps ($32) and buckles ($22 to $24) are sold separately.
Pin belts are the classic closure: slim, familiar and simple. This guide explains how a pin belt, a pin buckle belt and a pin frame belt work, how they differ from a ratchet belt, how to size one, and what we sell.
What is a pin belt, a pin buckle belt and a pin frame belt?
These names describe the same closure. A pin belt or pin buckle belt has a prong (the pin) on the buckle that goes through one of several holes punched in the strap. A pin frame belt uses a frame-shaped buckle (a rectangle or oval open in the middle) with the pin fixed across it. The belt holds at whichever hole you choose until you move it.
A clip belt closes with a clamp or toothed clip instead of a prong. Our pin and clip buckles use a toothed clip mechanism, and every buckle is detachable and replaceable.
Picks to go with this guide
1.55" Pin & Clip Brown Strap And 1.55" Gun Metal Pin & Clip Buckle 01
This leather run through a process which gives the leather it’s unique finish
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1.55" Pin & Clip Dark Brown Strap And 1.55" Gun Metal Pin & Clip Buckle 01
This leather run through a process which gives the leather it’s unique finish
View product →Pin belt vs ratchet belt
| Pin belt | Ratchet belt | |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustment | Fixed steps (holes), usually about 1 in apart | Small increments along a track, no holes |
| Buckle profile | Slim, traditional | Slightly thicker mechanism |
| Strap | Holes weaken the edge over time | Smooth, hole-free strap |
| Best for | Dress belts, classic look, stable waist size | Exact fit, weight that changes, casual to business-casual |
| Our price | $44 belt | $44 belt |
Read the ratchet belts guide for how the ratchet works, and the belt buckles guide for buckle mechanisms in general.
What we sell
Sizes run 30 to 42 in, in 2 in steps. Strap and buckle must be the same width (1.15 in, 1.38 in or 1.55 in), and the buckle is detachable, so you can swap buckles or replace a worn strap. See the belt straps guide. The listed pin and clip straps are described as full-grain leather. Belts are assembled in the USA of imported components.
How to size a pin belt
Order your current belt size, which is usually about 2 in larger than your waist measurement because belts are measured from the buckle end to the middle hole. If you wear a size 34 belt comfortably, order a 34. For a step-by-step method, see how to measure your belt size.
Width and buckle style
Match the belt width to your belt loops: 1.15 in for dress trousers, 1.38 in for most casual and business-casual wear, 1.55 in for jeans and heavier looks. A gun metal or silver frame buckle reads as classic; a solid brass buckle is warmer. Brass buckles for 1.38 in straps are $24.
Which to choose
- Choose a pin or clip belt for a classic, slim look and a steady waist.
- Choose a ratchet belt if you want a precise fit or between-size comfort; see ratchet belts.
Compare all options in the leather belts collection and the best leather belts guide. Condition the strap two or three times a year, focusing on the buckle fold. Belts can be personalized for free (up to 40 characters); personalized items are final sale. US shipping is free and standard items can be returned within 30 days.
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