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How to Measure Your Belt Size
Every belt is made individually to your measurements, so getting the correct size is essential. Your belt size isn't necessarily the same as your trouser size, so please measure carefully before ordering.
1. Measure an Existing Belt (Most Accurate)
The best method is to measure a belt you already own that fits well.
Lay your belt flat.
Measure from the leather fold where the buckle attaches (excluding the buckle) to the hole you use most often.
Record the measurement in inches or centimetres.
2. Measure Your Body (Second Most Accurate)
If you don't have an existing belt to measure, use a soft measuring tape around your waist or hips, wherever you normally wear your belt.
Thread the measuring tape through your trouser belt loops.
Stand naturally, without holding your breath or pushing out your stomach.
Pull the tape snugly, but not too tightly.
Record your measurement in inches or centimetres, as accurately as possible.
3. Use Your Trouser Size (Least Accurate)
As a rough guide, add 2 inches to your usual trouser waist size. For example, a 34-inch waist would suggest a 36-inch belt. For lower-rise trousers or jeans, you may need to add 3 inches.
Please note: Trouser sizes vary between manufacturers, so this is only an estimate. I strongly recommend using one of the first two methods for the most accurate fit.
For further guidance, visit my Belt Measurement Guide, or get in touch if you're unsure. I'm always happy to help.
Please allow 1 to 2 weeks for your bespoke, made-to-order belt.
Materials & Craftsmanship
The Hobble Belt is made from 4–5mm British oak bark tanned bridle leather, chosen for its strength, dense fibre structure and ability to withstand years of everyday use. Available in 1½" (38mm) width, each belt is individually made to measure.
Each belt is cut, edged and burnished by hand in my Dartmoor workshop. The solid brass west end buckle is fitted with a single traditionally saddle-stitched leather keeper, whilst the distinctive brass ring provides a useful place to hang keys, clips or other everyday essentials. All stitching is carried out by hand using waxed linen thread and the same traditional techniques I use in my saddlery and heavy harness work.
The construction is deliberately simple and traditional. Oak bark tanned leather softens, darkens and develops its own patina with use whilst retaining its strength. The result is a hard-working belt designed to be worn every day and repaired rather than replaced.
The Hobble Belt takes its name from the traditional hobble belts used by cowboys and stockmen in Australia, the United States and Canada. Originally designed to serve as both an everyday belt and a practical means of hobbling a working horse, they are a wonderful example of traditional saddlery serving a real purpose. Although less familiar in Britain, I have always admired these old working designs. With my own background in horse harness making, I wanted to give a nod to this beautiful piece of saddlery heritage and the generations of skilled hands behind it.
Made to Measure & Returns
Every belt is individually made to the measurements you provide. As these are made-to-measure items, I cannot accept returns or exchanges for a change of mind or an incorrect measurement supplied when ordering.
Please follow my Belt Measurement Guide carefully before placing your order, and if you're unsure, do get in touch. This does not affect your statutory rights if your belt is faulty, not as described or incorrectly made.
Shipping
UK orders are sent by Royal Mail Tracked 24. International orders are sent via Royal Mail International Tracked.
Please be aware that international orders may be subject to import duties, customs charges and local taxes imposed by the destination country. Any additional charges are the responsibility of the customer and are not included in the purchase price or shipping costs.
Please see my Delivery & Returns page for further information on UK and international shipping, delivery times and returns policies.
Guarantee, Repairs & Care
I make these belts to be used, not kept precious. With a little care, good bridle leather will give decades of service, and I believe that something made to last should also be repairable.
Every Belstone is covered by my lifetime guarantee, and if your belt ever needs attention in the years ahead, please get in touch. You can read more about my Guarantee & Repairs here.
Leather will naturally soften and change with use. An occasional application of my Natural Leather Balm will help keep it supple and nourished. For more detailed advice, see my Leather Care guide.
Crafted from British Oak Bark Tanned Leather
The Belstone is handmade using British oak bark tanned bridle leather from J&FJ Baker & Co. in Colyton, Devon — the last remaining traditional oak bark tannery in Britain.
Oak bark tanning is a slow process, taking around 12–14 months from raw hide to finished leather. Using natural tannins from oak bark, the hides are gradually tanned to produce strong, dense leather with a beautiful depth of colour and character.
Baker's bridle leather has long been used for saddlery and harness work, where strength and reliability are essential. These same qualities make it particularly well suited to a hard-working everyday belt.
Read more about the history and craftsmanship of oak bark tanning and J&FJ Baker tannery here.
