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A tool belt is an essential item for any person whose job involves transporting a lot of tools to the workplace. A tool belt can even serve as an extra hand because it carries the essential tools everywhere. A tool belt is a mechanics wingman, a carpenters companion, and an important item to an engineers assemble. The primary purpose of a tool belt is to keep all the essential tools you may need close to you at all times.
It saves the worker a lot of hassle by not having to go to the workstation every time a tool is needed; if you’re someone who values productivity and efficiency, then a tool belt will suit your needs. Tool belts have been around for a long time, but people don’t know how helpful they can be.
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There are different types of tool belts available both online and in the markets. Tool belts come in varying sizes and shapes, and the choice you make depends on the intended use of the tool belt. Searching for the best tool belts can be confusing if you don’t know what you are looking for; first of all, do you need it for personal use or professional use? Let us check out the types of tools belt so that you can decide which one best suits you.
TYPES OF TOOL BELTS
The best tool belts don’t all come in one shape and size, you can find them in varying types, and they are designed to meet different workers’ specific needs and for every task. Here are some of the types of tool belts:
SUSPENDER: A suspender tool belt is great for carrying heavy weight tools because this tool belt is made to distribute the weight from your hips and back to your shoulders. This allows you to carry bulky tools without fear of fatigue, and it also prevents the occurrence of injuries.
WAIST: The waist tool belt is the most famous tool belt available. They are worn around your waist and are easy to carry around. They are easily found and are ideal for almost all work conditions and jobs. These tool belts are also easily customized; they allow you to modify it to your specifications. You can quickly get pouches anywhere and easily attach them to the belt, and this gives you room to increase or decrease its holding capacity.
HIP: The hip tool belt is the most feasible tool belt. They allow you to reach your tools easily and also keep them out of your by placing them in the side of your hip. This allows you to easily pick a tool from your big side pockets without having to search a pouch.
POUCH: The pouch tool belts are usually used alongside the waist type of tool belt. The waist tool bet can be customized with the pouches. They are very useful and can be easily attached and removed from a waist tool belt. The pouches that have double stitches are very strong and durable.
APRON: The apron style tool belts are suitable for workers that also want to protect their clothing during work. This tool belt is made from heavy canvas, and because of this, they can keep you safe from nail guns, saws, and other dangerous equipment.
There are some things you need to know about a tool belt before making a purchase and also about maintenance of the tool belt.
FEATURES TO CONSIDER IN A TOOL BELT
WAIST SIZE: The waist size is important; getting the right waist size will allow the tool belt to sit comfortably. Ensure you pay attention to the measurement range, which is usually in inches; this will quickly tell you if the belt is right for you or not.
WEIGHT: This refers to the weight of the empty tool belt because it is going to impact on your carrying weight. If the tools you carry weigh 10 lbs, then you would be carrying 12 lbs weight between the tools and the belt itself. Even the little weight goes a long way. Leather belts weigh more than nylon belts, and harness belts weight more than waist belts.
MATERIAL: Different materials are used in making tool belts; these materials include leather, nylon, synthetic fiber, and sometimes canvas. The first three are the most popular materials, but no matter the material, if you properly care for the belt, they will last a long time.
POCKETS: The pockets are the reason you are getting a tool belt. Ensure you consider the number, size, and intended use of the belt before you choose the amounts of pockets you will need. Take into account the amount, depth, and durability. If you get a tool belt with many pockets, you might end up feeling unbalanced and awkward, but if you get a tool belt that has lesser pockets than you need, then you can always get extension pockets.
DESIGN: There are two standard designs, which are the harness and waist. The one you choose depends on your preference, and in other cases, your work may require a particular type. Harness belts are best suited for working in elevated spaces, while waist belts are universal and can be used at any workspace.
DURABILITY: This also depends on the material; to be honest, the only way a tool belt will lose its durability is if the owner doesn’t load it properly or doesn’t properly maintain it, if it is properly maintained, then it will be durable enough to last you a lifetime. They are made to hold sharp and heavy items that cause fabric stress.
COMFORT, the harness strap thickness will also ensure your comfort. Also, the maximum weight holds each pouch has, and the variable adjustment ranges that ensure you have a quality and good fit.
KEY FEATURES OF TOOL BELTS
Tool belts come with features that serve different purposes and make carrying tools about easy; these features are outlined below.
Some tool belts come with a quick release. It saves you the stress of having to adjust the tool belt every time you put it on.
Tool belts with buckles make it easy to take off the belt; they allow you to take it off with one hand if needed. Buckles quickly snap together and apart with ease, thereby allowing you to use them with so much feasibility.
The best tool belts can be customized and personalized. This is awesome if you want to add your design to match the uniqueness of your job or working style.
Some tool belts are also adjustable. This allows you to choose a tool belt regardless of the fit because you can always adjust it to meet your needs.
BENEFITS OF USING A TOOL BELT
There are different benefits of using a tool belt, some of the more prominent ones are highlighted below.
They provide added mobility; when you are working, you need to be quick on your feet to quickly react to any situation, especially in cases of an emergency, but if you have your tools in your jean pockets, then you won’t be able to move around efficiently.
Tool belts help you store dangerous tools safely, such as a knife, hammer, or a cutter; they have specific pockets for them that prevent them from causing you any harm.
Tool belts can be reversed, meaning you can switch the pockets to the back; this allows you to bend over and do the task easily.
The information above should help you purchase the right tool belt for your needs. This guide will cover the tool belts that are available in the markets and get you familiarized with what you need in a tool belt.
Let’s dive into the list.
The Best Tool Belt Are Reviewed Below
We have don’t research and have found the best tool belts available, alongside their specifications and features. This list will give you an insight into the best tool belts.
1
DEWALT DG5617 Pro Framer’s Apron Tool Belt
The DEWALT DG5617 Pro Framer’s Apron Tool Belt is a comfortable, well-padded tool belt that is well fitted for added comfort. It also features a one double-tongue roller buckle. The buckle adds extra comfort and also increases the stability of the belt when it is worn. This apron style tool belt has an impressive storage capacity; it comes with 20 pockets that are made in small sizes but have sufficient storage space.
It features a total of 9 primary pockets that you can use and also a utility knife pouch sewn into the tool belt; this gives you added safety and security. This tool belt is versatile; it can serve carpenters, electricians, woodworkers, construction workers, and any person who needs a tool belt.
The material used in making this tool belt is durable and can resist tears and holes. Its straps incorporate Dri-Lex padding, which makes the belt comfortable to wear for an extended period without the fear of chafing.
The tool belt also features adjustable suspenders that have the right amount of padding, with the suspenders weight is evenly distributed. It also has a tool pouch handle that allows you easily carry it with one hand while you adjust the belt. The drawback that this belt has is that its in-built cell phone holder is not long enough to hold other models of mobile phones.
Key Features:
- Fully adjustable padded suspenders
- 20 pockets with sleeves for nails and other small tools
- Padded belt with double-tongue roller buckle
- Nine main pockets with smaller pockets
- Zipped pouch
- Tool pouch handle
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DEWALT DG5617 Pro Framer’s Apron Tool Belt
- Weight: 2.75 pounds
- Dimensions: 24.25 * 7.5 * 17.25 inches
- Color: Black
Pros
- Thanks to its double-tongue roller buckle, it is stable and secure
- It has numerous pockets and pouches for storing multiple tools
- It comes with a utility knife pouch
- It is a comfortable tool belt that you can wear for an extended period
- It features fully adjustable suspenders for stability
- You can easily carry it with one hand
Cons
- Its in-built cell phone holder is not compatible with other models of mobile phones
- Sometimes the clips and hooks might break off after a long while of use
2
Gatorback B145 Carpenters Triple Combo w/Pro-Comfort Back Support Belt
The Gatorback B145 Carpenters Back Support Belt is one of the most popular tool belts available in the market. Its size is based on the average size. This tool belt features a patented air channel design that makes the belt comfortable and breathable, and it also gives the user a sweat-free experience.
This tool belt has a durable build with its foam backing that makes it ultra-breathable and comfortable. The pouches of this tool belt have an interior plastic lining that gives them a square-like shape so that they do not sag over time; this style keeps the pouches open and easily accessible, it also prevents tools from creating holes at the bottom of the belt.
The material used in making this tool belt is the heavy-duty 1250 DuraTek nylon. It keeps the tool belt durable and rugged, but it is lightweight and won’t stress you. The right side of this tool belt has a hammer loop, the center pouch is 8 inches deep and is a single pouch, and the left side has a seven pocket fastener tool pouch which has easy access to the belt’s pockets.
Key Features:
- Patented air channel design
- Foam backing
- Riveted stress points
- Heavy-duty 1250 DuraTek nylon
- Box design
- 1-year warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Gatorback
- Model: Gatorback B145 Carpenters Triple Combo w/Pro-Comfort Back Support Belt
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Dimensions: 5 * 5 * 0.7 inches
- Color: Black with white stitching
Pros
- This tool belt is made from high quality material, and this makes it incredibly durable
- It features a patented air channel design that makes it breathable and comfortable
- The interior of the pouches are lined with plastic to make it open and easily accessible
Cons
- In some cases, the sides of the belt may start to fray.
3
CLC Custom Leathercraft 527X Tool Belt
The CLC Custom Leathercraft 527X Tool Belt is an affordable, high-quality belt. It is made out of heavy-duty suede leather material that also has double gussets, and it can withstand stress. The pockets that are in front are easily accessible, and this reduces the stress of having to reach far when you need a tool. The pockets on this tool belt are sufficient enough to store small to medium-sized tools. This tool belt has 12 pockets, and all of them have enough space, so you don’t have to worry about the tools it can carry. Even with its plenty pockets, this belt is lightweight; even when it has tools in it, you don’t have to worry about fatigue thanks to its lightweight. It has a wide range of waistline sizes; it fits almost all sizes. The thickness of the belt shows off its overall quality; it also provided spaces for a hammer loop and cordless drill. It also has additional pencil holders and an in-built poly web belt that has a roller buckle for added stability.
Key Features:
- Made from heavy-duty suede leather with double gussets
- Total of 12 pockets
- 2-inch poly web belt with roller buckle
- Combination of leather square holder
- 1-year warranty
- Hammer loop
Specification:
- Brand: (CLC) Custom Leathercraft
- Model: CLC Custom Leathercraft 527X Tool Belt
- Weight: 1 pound
- Dimensions: 5 * 27 * 10 inches
- Color: Brown
Pros
- It remains lightweight even when filled with tools, nails, and other items
- It can fit a wide range of waistlines and sizes
- It comes with 12 pockets that have enough room to hold your tools
- It is affordable for its features
- It is made from durable, heavy-duty suede leather
Cons
- Sometimes the inner seams wear out faster than expected
4
ToughBuilt - Contractor Tool Belt
The ToughBuilt – Contractor Tool Belt has a four-piece, two tape measure clip. It features 36 pockets and tool belt loops; it also features a heavy-duty hammer loop and holder holster that fits utility knives, tools, phone leather, pliers, and more. This tool belt features a patented Clip Tech Hub that is compatible with other ToughBuilt tool belts. This tool belt is suitable for electricians, electrical engineers, contractors, carpenters, plumbers, framers, and construction workers. It includes suspenders, holsters, bags, and pouches.
This tool belt helps you to organize your tools efficiently. The Clip Tech pouches can be clipped on and off depending on your preferences or needs. It comes with three pouches, 3 Clip Tech Hubs, and a padded belt. This tool belt will comfortably fit waist sizes of 32 to 48 inches. It has a six-layer construction and rivet reinforcement so it can withstand the test of time and harsh environments.
Key Features:
- Multi-pocket organizer
- Patented Clip Tech Hub
- Suspenders, holsters, pouches, bags, belts, and case
- Versatile and durable
Specification:
- Brand: ToughBuilt
- Model: ToughBuilt – 36 Pockets, 3 Patented ClipTech Hubs – (TB-CT-101-4)
- Weight: 5.79 pounds
- Dimensions: 10 * 24.02 * 13.27 inches
- Color: Black and Yellow
- Material: polyester
Pros
- This tool belt features a six-layer design that makes it durable and efficient
- It comes with 36 pockets and loops, which is enough space to store all the tools you need
- The Clip Tech pouches can always be clipped off and on quickly and easily
- It also comes with a speed square and notebook pocket
Cons
- In some cases, the clips and hooks have broken off after a while of usage
5
Occidental Leather 9855 Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set
The Occidental Leather, 9855 tool belt, is excellent for workers that have jobs like carpentry, framing, woodworking, construction, and electrical. This tool belt is durable and made with a classic leather look. This tool bag is well crafted with canvas and then reinforced with a leather belt to improve durability. The built-in bags are large and spacious for all the tools you need, and the bags are also positioned in the right places.
The positioning of these bags on this tool belt makes it easy to access your tools without hassle. It also features a fat-lip bag design, which makes the belt more efficient to use. The bags on this belt have a depth of up to 10 inches, which is pretty deep; it will let you store your tools without worry. The lips of the pouches are made from thick and durable leather, and they remain open thanks to the leather material. The bag and belt of this tool bag are both adjustable so that they will fit perfectly.
Key Features:
- Comfortable belt with a fat lip bag design
- Ten-inch deep industrial nylon bags with leather reinforcements
- Pre-installed D rings for a suspension system
- Multiple tool holders
Specification:
- Brand: Occidental Leather
- Model: Occidental Leather 9855 Adjust-to-Fit, Fat Lip Tool Bag Set
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Dimensions: 18.7 * 17.9 * 6 inches
- Color: Café
Pros
- It is easy to access your tools thanks to its naturally open design pockets and pouches
- Its bags and belt are adjustable
- The bags are deep enough to store a variety of tools
- It has a well crafted and durable classic leather look
- Its bags are durable due to the leather reinforcements
Cons
- It is quite expensive
6
Bucket Boss - Builder’s Tool Belt (50200)
The Bucket Boss – Builder’s Tool Belt is constructed from 20% Poly, 10% Ferric, 15% PP, 45% PVC, and 10% EPE Foam. It features large capacity pouches that you can adjust to meet your needed; it also has a steel bucket with grommets that easily fits waist sizes of up to 52 inches. This tool belt comes with two large pouches that effectively hold small to medium hand tools; because it is made from a poly material, the AirLift is durable and can withstand harsh conditions.
The tool belt comes with two hammer holders; one is made from steel while the other is made from a heavy web material. Its large grommets allow you to make adjustments easily. This tool belt is a suitable option for many professions as it helps you efficiently organize your tools.
Key Features:
- Adjustable pouch system
- Reinforced pouch bottoms
- Single body stiching
- Fits waist of up to 52 inches
- Single body make
- Barrel bottom pouches
- 1-year limited warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Bucket Boss
- Model: Bucket Boss – Builder’s Tool Belt (50200)
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
- Dimensions: 23 * 4 * 13 inches
- Color: Brown
Pros
- It comes with large capacity pouches that can store a lot of tools and can also be adjusted
- It features 12 pockets, which is a sufficient number of spaces to store tools
- It features a steel bucket belt that can fit waist sizes of up to 52 inches
Cons
- It does not have interior pockets, which some people might prefer
7
Gatorback B145 Carpenters Back Support Belt
The Gatorback B145 is made from heavy-duty Duratek nylon, which makes it tough and durable. Its interior also has a plastic lining to prevent sagging of the bag. This tool belt is lightweight; it also features bar-tracked and riveted stress points in the belts and pockets. This shows the strength of the belt and its pocket’s capability to stay strong no matter the harsh conditions they are exposed to. The pockets have a box design that keeps the pockets open for easy access and also prevents the tools from poking holes at the bottom of the pocket.
This tool belt is comfortable, and with its patented air channel design, you will have a sweat-free and breathable experience when using this tool belt. It also has a foam backing for added comfort and breathability.
Key Features:
- 1-year defect-free warranty
- Patented air channel design
- Foam backing
- Riveted stress points
- Made with heavy-duty 1250 DuraTek nylon
- Box design
Specification:
- Brand: Gatorback
- Model: Gatorback B145 Carpenters Back Support Belt
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Dimensions: 5 * 5 * 0.7 inches
- Color: Black with white stitching
Pros
- It is firm, tough, and durable
- It features a box design that allows easy access
- It is comfortable and breathable
- It is lightweight
- Patented airflow technology
Cons
- The material used in the pocket is a bit coarse
8
ToughBuilt - Handyman Tool Belt Set (TB-CT-111C)
The ToughBuilt (TB-CT-111C) is a versatile tool belt. It has a three-piece tool belt that includes a tape measure clips and ten pockets; it also has a modular hammer loop and a holster that can hold pliers, drills, tools, and utility knives. This tool belt can fit waist sizes of 32 to 48 inches. It also has a patented Clip Tech Hub that is compatible with other ToughBuilt tool belts. It also features a framers pouch, modular hammer loop, and a padded belt. It is constructed with six-layer rugged and rivet reinforcement that makes the belt durable. This tool belt has a long-lasting design that will easily hold your tools and help you efficiently organize them.
Key Features:
- Patented Clip Tech Hub
- Ten pockets
- Modular hammer loop
- Fits waist sizes of 32 to 48 inches
- Rugged six-layer design
- Rivet reinforcements
Specification:
- Brand: ToughBuilt
- Model: ToughBuilt – Handyman Tool Belt Set (TB-CT-111C)
- Weight: 3.96 pounds
- Dimensions: 16 * 16 * 16 inches
- Color: Black and Yellow
Pros
- It has aa Clip Tech pouch that can easily be clipped off and on according to the user’s needs
- It is incredibly durable
- It comes with ten pockets that can easily be organized
Cons
- The clips on this tool belt might break off in some instances
9
Style n Craft 98434 Pro-Framers Combo
The Style n Craft 98434 Pro-Framers Combo has a lot of unique features. Style n Craft is known for its high-quality products. It comes with six interior pockets at the main pouch and 17 pockets in total. It is a durable material and strong tool belt that has a double pouch design with a spacious belt; it also has two side pockets where you can hold small tools such as nails, pencils, knives, and nail sets. You will also love the metal hammer hoop that is located at the center of the belt.
It also comes with rivets that have caps to added security for your items. Its contrast stitching makes the tool belt more sturdy.
Key Features:
- Top grain oiled leather
- Heavy-duty nylon thread
- Double pouch design
- 17 pockets
- 3 inches wide tapered leather belt
- Fits waist of 34 to 46 inches
- Rivets featuring caps for security
Specification:
- Brand: Style n Craft 98434 Pro-Framers Combo
- Model: Style n Craft 98434 Pro-Framers Combo
- Weight: 4.14 pounds
- Dimensions: 24 * 10 * 2 inches
- Color: Dark Tan
Pros
- It is high quality and durable tool belt
- It is spacious with its double pouch design
- It is versatile
- It features a user-friendly carry handle
Cons
- It takes about a week to break in the toolbelt
10
MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
The MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt is constructed from 100% polyester and comes with 12 pockets where you can easily store your tools. It features magnetic nail pockets that provide added security. This tool belt is made from double-layered 1680D ballistic polyester that makes it durable. The pockets on this belt are wide-mouthed and stay open and provide easy access to the tools. One size can fit most people. This tool belt is suitable for most professions that require a tool belt.
Key Features:
- Made from polyester
- 12 pockets
- Magnetic pocket
- Key stress points reinforced with rivets
Specification:
- Brand: MagnoGrip
- Model: MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
- Weight: 1 pound
- Dimensions: 5 * 23 * 8 inches
- Color: Black
Pros
- This tool belt features magnetic nail pockets which provide added safety
- It is manufactured from 1680D polyester, which makes it durable
- It comes with 12 pockets which are large enough to hold your tools and other things
Cons
- The pockets might be too small for some people
Buying Guide Questions
What is a tool belt? Which direction should a belt be worn?
A tool belt is a belt that has pockets or pouches attached to it for the purpose of carrying tools with ease.
To wear a tool belt, all you have to do is pass it through the waistband of your trousers and fasten it, then correctly wear the suspenders and make sure the brace crosses your back and reaches your chest; after that, attach the braces to the front of your trouser.
What should be in a tool belt?
A basic tool belt contains a claw hammer, chalk line, putty knife, carpenter’s pen or pencil or sharpie, utility knives, lineman pliers, and more; the tools you carry depend on your job.
What is the best leather tool belt?
There are different leather tool belts available in the markets, but our favorite is the Occidental Leather 9855. Others catch our fancies, such as the CLC Custom Leathercraft 527X Construction Work Apron, Style n Craft 98434 Pro-Framers Combo, and more.
Are tool belts bad for your back? Can I adjust my tool belt?
Tool belts are useful in carrying a large number of tools around a workplace, some tool belts can weigh up to 50 pounds, and this can put a strain on your back and hips.
Yes, some tool belts are adjustable.
Can you wash tool bags or tool belts?
If you want to clean your tool belt, then use only water and not soap, leather water-resistant so it will be easy for you to clean with no issues.
What is in your tool bag?
You can put the tools you need for your job in your tool bag but don’t forget to avoid overloading it.
Conclusion
There will always be a need for tool belts as it can make your job faster and easier. They also let you work safely because your tools would be secured. With all the information above, you should be able to decide which tool belt best suits you and your requirements.