Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
I have far too many belts. Black, brown, tan, burgundy, olive, chartreuse — you name it and I have it. But nothing can compare to an undyed veg tanned belt. Each morning you can get up, pull on that veg tanned belt and notice how much the patina has darkened since the last time you really looked at it. Look hard enough and you might even be able to see indigo stains from the underside of each belt loop.
Every denimhead should get to experience this! The following list is designed to get you started in your shopping. It is far from comprehensive, but it can certainly help you take that first step toward a new belt.
1) Gustin: The Classic Belt
Sometimes belt are far too complex for their own good, and Gustin gets this. Their Classic Belt is as straightforward as they come: 1.5″ wide, burnished edges, and finished with an English point. It’s made from a 12 oz. steerhide, which is more substantial than many might be used to. It comes complete with a silver-toned garrison buckle secured with two rivets.
Available for $45 from Gustin
2) Vermilyea Pelle: Horsehide Wenatchee Belt for Blue Owl
Not all vegetable tanned belts are the same, and the Wenatchee belt by Vermilyea Pelle certainly exemplifies this. It is made from horsehide rather than cowhide, and while the jury is still out on which leather is superior, there are some definite differences between the two. Despite the fact that horsehide is generally thinner than cowhide, it is still considered to be more resilient to moisture and abrasions. As far as appearances are concerned, horsehide is known for its marbled coloration and mild sheen, and the horsehide used for the Wenatchee belt is no different.
Available for $85 from Blue Owl
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3) Full Count: 6210NAT Wild Belt
Just because you prefer cowhide to horsehide doesn’t mean you have to settle for a uniformly colored belt! The Wild belt by Full Count offers incredibly varied coloration while staying slightly more matte in appearance than the Wenatchee belt. This belt features a silver-toned buckle and seven tear-drop punches, which help to ensure that you are able to find a good fit.
Available for $94 from Denimio
4) Naked and Famous: 15Oz. 7mm Heavyweight Belt
What kind of belt list would be complete without something made from heavyweight leather? Naked & Famous‘ 15 oz. belt is ridiculously thick, but its tear-drop shaped holes keep it from being difficult to put on. Not only that, but they also help to keep the belt from bulging at the buckle. And while it may be difficult to pair this belt with anything but workwear-inspired outfits, that doesn’t mean it won’t quickly become your new favorite accessory.
Available for $96 from Tate + Yoko
5) W.H. Earl: American Standard
W.H. Earl might not be a brand that instantly recognize, but their American Standard belt is on point at a great price. Vegetable tanned belts are often thought of as being rustic and unfinished, and while the American Standard belt is left undyed its edges are beveled and burnished to perfection. It is completed with a silver colored buckle that is secured with four heavy duty rivets, ensuring that it will be with you for years to come.
Available for $60 from W.H. Earl
Plus One – Billykirk: Mechanic’s Belt
This belt may not appear to be anything too special at first glance, but it comes with quite the story. It features two layers of leather; the bottom layer buckles like a standard belt and the top layer covers the latched buckle. This style of belt was originally used by people in the auto industry who needed to be able reach across cars without scratching the paint with their belt buckles. Just think, wouldn’t it be cool to have a great story to accompany your belt next time someone compliments you on it?
Available for $99 from Billykirk
