What’s your take on tool belts right now?
Evan wrote (with line breaks added):
I have gone on a deep dive regarding tool belts recently and searched around on ToolGuyd to see what info might be available.
I did not find much, mostly an old 2018 post on Diamondback (which I have learned in my deep dive moved production to Vietnam and was recently sold to Blaklader).
I have explored a lot about Badger (now owned by Occidental Leather), Diamondback, and Akribis, and actually just ordered a whole set up from Akribis (handmade leather in Canada). I have not received it yet but might order a Diamondback belt as well to see which I like more.
Just thought I would see if you have any plans in the pipeline for an overview of the market on toolbelts? I would be interested. I know these belts are crazy expensive, but I dropped more than they cost on Packout recently and hope to wear the belt for many years. Anyway, just a thought – thank you for all of the work you put into this amazing site to keep us all informed!
Thank you Evan! I also wasn’t aware that Diamondback was sold to Blaklader.
Looking back at what happened, Diamondback Tool Belts was prompted by the FTC in 2022 to change their marketing language so as to not overstate the extent to which production was made in the USA.
In 2024, the company announced that they were moving production to Vietnam. The brand was acquired by Blaklader in mid-2026. I checked a bunch of Diamondback tool belts, tool vests, and tool pouches at Acme Tools, and each listed China as the country of origin.
I’m not sure I would go with Diamondback right now, if they’re still adjusting after production shifts and a change in ownership. If they’re just sourcing from other tool belt makers, is there anything special about their designs, materials, and quality anymore?
Speaking generally, tool belts are a tough category for me to review, since initial fit and feel could be misleading. What does the tool belt feel like once it’s broken in? How well does it hold up over time?
I’m not really a tool belt person. Tool belts don’t closely align with how and where I use my tools. Sometimes I like to work out of a tool pouch, but that’s not quite the same.
If I bought a new tool belt now, and that is the only one I ever use, it might never break in with use.
Occidental Leather is still popular and premium-priced. It’s for users who know exactly what they’re looking for and don’t want to have to shop for a new tool belt for many years.
I’m not familiar with Badger, but they look to have a good reputation too.
Milwaukee tool belts are functional.
Dead-On Tools looks to be a good choice at lower budgets.
Klein Tools sent over a new work rig, and it feels well thought out and sturdily constructed. Based on my initial assessment, I’m impressed. But I’m not sure how to weight that opinion without putting in dozens of hours.
This is the type of product where I’d never make up my mind. Leather vs canvas. Shoulder straps or suspenders vs just the belt? Pouches just for tools, or also fasteners? Different loadouts for different work, or just move tools around?
I would buy a one-style-fits-most option off the shelf for under $150, wear it down, and then upgrade later.
At higher price points, I wouldn’t want thicker canvas, I’d want leather.
When workers talk about more premium brands, such as Occidental Leather, they often complain about the price, and rarely the quality. But that doesn’t mean it’s a great fit for everyone.
Some rigs are heavier. Stiffer until broken in. Heat retention can vary.
I’d want to try a tool belt in person, but dealer locations can be quite a distance away. So be prepared for return shipping and maybe restocking fees if things don’t work out, which I guess is better than all-sales-final policies.
All of you tool belt folks – what do you recommend? If you’re shopping for something new, especially the more premium offerings, how do you go about it?
