buckles

Buckles are fastening devices used to secure two ends of a strap or belt around an object or body. They are common on belts, shoes, bags, harnesses, and safety equipment, offering an adjustable, reusable closure that can be opened and closed repeatedly.

A typical buckle comprises a frame, a prong (tongue), and a bar that anchors the strap. The strap passes through the frame, the prong fits into a hole or slot on the strap, and the bar keeps the strap aligned. Some designs include a roller to reduce wear on the strap.

Major types include frame buckles (traditional, with a movable prong), plate buckles (flat, with a fixed prong), and roller buckles (that pass the strap over a small wheel). Automatic or ratchet buckles provide adjustable tension without holes. Side-release buckles consist of two parts that click together for quick release, and magnetic buckles use magnets to close.

Materials and applications vary. Buckles are made from metal (such as brass, steel, or aluminum), plastic, or composites, and may be used with leather, fabric, or synthetic straps. They are employed in fashion belts, athletic and safety equipment, equestrian tack, and gear such as backpacks and climbing harnesses.

Historically, buckles have been used since antiquity to secure belts and harnesses, with metal frame designs becoming widespread in the Middle Ages. Care depends on material: metal buckles can be cleaned with mild soap and water, leather straps should be kept dry and conditioned, and plastic buckles should be inspected for cracks and replaced if needed.