As a writer for Practical Travel Gear, I have had the opportunity to test out a variety of travel gear, from backpacks to hiking boots to travel pillows. But one item that has truly stood out to me during my recent trip to Wyoming for a hiking adventure is the Arcade Carto Stretch Belt.
One thing that immediately caught my eye about this belt was its subtle yet sophisticated color scheme. The belt features a light gray webbing with brown accents throughout, which gives it a timeless and versatile look. Whether you’re pairing it with khaki shorts or dark denim, the Carto Stretch Belt’s color will complement your outfit without stealing the show.
But of course, style is just one aspect of a belt. It also needs to be functional and comfortable, especially during an active trip like hiking. And I’m happy to say that the Carto Stretch Belt delivered on both fronts.
Let’s start with the buckle. The contoured design was a game-changer for me. Rather than a traditional rectangular buckle that can dig into your skin or create bulges under a backpack, this buckle is molded to follow the curve of your form. This meant that even when I was wearing a backpack with a hip belt, the Carto Stretch Belt didn’t cause any discomfort or irritation.
The tapered buckle design also made it incredibly easy to put on and take off the belt. You simply feed the tail end of the belt through your belt loops first, then slide the tapered buckle through. This may not seem like a big deal, but as someone who has struggled with buckling belts in the past, I can attest that it makes a world of difference.
But what really sets the Carto Stretch Belt apart is its performance stretch. This is where the belt really shines during outdoor activities. The stretchy material moves with your body, providing a secure hold without any pinching or discomfort. This was particularly noticeable when I was hiking uphill and my waist was expanding and contracting with each breath. The belt stayed in place without feeling restrictive.
And speaking of fit, the micro-adjustable buckle is a great feature. Rather than relying on a set of holes, the buckle can be dialed in to your exact fit. This is especially helpful if you’re between sizes or if you want to adjust the fit throughout the day (for example, if you’re eating a big lunch and need a little extra room).
Another standout feature of the Carto Stretch Belt is the fact that it’s made with recycled materials. The webbing is made with 85% post-consumer recycled REPREVE®️ polyester, which means that you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it’s eco-friendly. And despite the recycled materials, the belt is still incredibly durable. The high density plastic buckle is designed to endure tough outdoor adventures without adding unnecessary weight.
Finally, as someone who travels frequently, I appreciated the fact that the Carto Stretch Belt is travel-friendly. The metal-free buckle means that you don’t have to worry about taking it off during airport security. And if the belt gets dirty during your travels, you can simply throw it in the laundry with your pants.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Arcade Carto Stretch Belt to anyone who wants a functional, comfortable, and stylish belt for outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or just exploring a new city, this belt will move with your body and provide a secure hold without any discomfort. And with its eco-friendly materials and travel-friendly design, it’s a great choice for conscientious travelers as well.