The belt is strong and tough. It is made for heavy use and will certainly last a long time. The plastic buckle is ingenius as you need not take it off during  airport security check. Best of all, the hidden pouch for storing the money is a great place to hide money for emergency  use. I have travelled all over the world, backpacking and I always had to hide my cash here and there to avoid being stolen or rob. Now, I need not worry about where to stash them as this belt  certainly proved its usefulness. I wish I had it 20 years ago...but it is never too late.