If you’re in the market for a high quality belt, chances are you’ve come across Mission Belt and Nexbelt. Both brands make excellent belts that are durable, stylish and customizable. But which one is better for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Mission Belt and Nexbelt across several factors like materials, sizing, buckles, and more. We’ll highlight the pros and cons of each brand so you can make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Mission Belt | Nexbelt |
| Materials | Polyurethane leather, some real leather options | Polyurethane leather, wide range of real Italian leather options |
| Sizing Range | 32″ – 54″ even sizes | 28″ – 54″ even sizes |
| Sizing Increments | Adjusts in 1/4″ increments | Adjusts in 1/2″ increments |
| Buckle Selection | Aluminum and stainless steel in silver, gunmetal, black | Aluminum, stainless steel and cobalt in polished, brushed and black finishes |
| Price Range | Polyurethane belts $34.95 – $59.95, Leather belts $54.95 – $69.95 | Polyurethane belts $49.99 – $59.99, Leather belts $59.99 – $69.99 |
| Country of Manufacture | USA | USA |
| Warranty | 1 year against defects | 1 year against defects |
| Aesthetic | Bold colors and prints, angular buckles | Traditional leathers and solid colors, refined curved buckles |
Overview of Mission Belt
Mission Belt was founded in 2010 by Nate Holzapfel and Jeff Jenkins who struggled to find a belt that fit comfortably without needing new holes punched. They created the Mission Belt with a ratcheting system that adjusts every 1/4 inch for a perfect fit.
Here are some key things to know about Mission Belt:
- Based in Utah, USA and manufactures belts locally.
- Features a proprietary ratcheting buckle system made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Lets you adjust in 1/4″ increments.
- Belts are made of polyurethane leather and do not stretch or wear out.
- Offers 38 mm and 50 mm wide belts in a range of stylish colors and patterns.
- Lengths range from 32” to 54” in even sizes.
- Interchangeable buckles let you swap out looks.
- Prices range from $34.95 to $69.95 USD.
Also Read: Differences Between SlideBelts And Mission Belts.
Overview of Nexbelt
Founded in 2010, Nexbelt set out to make “the belt that doesn’t suck.” Their belts feature a ratcheting system similar to Mission Belt that provides a custom fit.
Key Nexbelt features:
- Based in Indiana, USA and manufactures belts domestically.
- Uses an internal ratcheting system called FLEX to adjust in 1/2” increments.
- Belts made of Italian leather or polyurethane. No break-in period required.
- Width options include 24mm, 32mm, 38mm, 44mm, 50mm.
- Lengths range from 28” to 54” in even sizes.
- Swappable buckle designs let you customize look.
- Prices range from $49.99 to $69.99 USD.
Key Differences Between Mission Belt And Nexbelt
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s compare the two brands across several factors.
- Materials
Both Mission Belt and Nexbelt use polyurethane leather for the majority of their belts. This man-made material has the look of leather but doesn’t crack or stretch. It’s also water resistant and easy to clean.
Mission Belt offers some belts in genuine leather, but the selection is limited. Nexbelt has a wider range of real Italian leather options. The leather will age beautifully over time.
So Nexbelt wins when it comes to material options, especially if you want real leather. But both brands use high quality polyurethane that will last for years.
- Sizing and Fit
Finding the right belt size is crucial for all day comfort.
Mission Belt and Nexbelt both use ratcheting systems to get a custom fit without punching new holes.
The Mission Belt system adjusts in 1/4″ increments.
Nexbelt offers adjustment in 1/2″ increments. Both provide flexibility to get the perfect tension.
Mission Belt has even sizes from 32″ to 54″.
Nexbelt’s size range is similar at 28″ to 54″ in even sizes. Nexbelt has a few more small size options, but both cover the standard range.
For most people, either brand will let you dial in a comfortable fit. Mission Belt may offer slightly more precision with 1/4″ adjustment. But Nexbelt has half-inch increments plus more sizing variability.
- Buckles
One advantage of Mission Belts and Nexbelts is the ability to swap out buckles. This lets you customize your look or replace a damaged buckle.
Mission offers buckles made from aluminum and stainless steel in silver, gunmetal and black. Nexbelt’s buckle selection includes aluminum as well as stainless steel and cobalt. Finishes include polished, brushed and black.
Both have a decent selection to mix up your style. Mission Belt offers buckles for as low as $19.95 while Nexbelt’s start at $29.99.
Overall Nexbelt has a slight edge in buckle variety. But Mission Belt’s lower buckle prices help offset the difference.
- Price
Speaking of price, here is how Mission Belt and Nexbelt compare:
- Mission Belt polyurethane belts range from $34.95 to $59.95
- Nexbelt polyurethane belts range from $49.99 to $59.99
- Mission Belt leather belts range from $54.95 to $69.95
- Nexbelt leather belts range from $59.99 to $69.99
Mission Belt consistently has lower prices, especially for their polyurethane belts. Their leather options are more limited but also cost less than Nexbelt leather.
- Quality and Durability
A high quality belt that lasts for years is worth the investment. How do Mission Belt and Nexbelt compare in craftsmanship and durability?
Both brands manufacture their belts in the USA with excellent attention to detail and construction. The materials and hardware are built to last.
Based on customer reviews, Mission Belts and Nexbelts both receive high marks for withstanding daily wear and tear. The ratcheting system also maintains its precision over time so the belts continue to fit great.
There are very few complaints about quality or durability issues with either brand. That suggests you can expect years of enjoyable use from either belt.
Also Read: Differences Between Mission Belt And Anson Belt.
- Customer Service
It’s difficult to find any major differences between Mission Belt and Nexbelt when it comes to customer service.
Both brands offer a standard 1 year warranty against defects and workmanship errors. They also allow returns within 30 days if you are unsatisfied.
Online reviews indicate friendly and timely customer service from both companies. They generally resolve issues promptly whether it’s an exchange, refund or replacing parts.
Based on available information, you can expect solid customer service whichever brand you choose.
- Aesthetics
A belt’s hardware and materials influence the overall look you can achieve.
Mission Belts come in a wider range of colors and prints including camo, textured leather and unique patterns. Nexbelt has more traditional leather options along with basic solid colors.
For the buckles, Mission Belt’s designs have an angular industrial vibe. Nexbelt buckles utilize softer curves for a more refined appearance.
This category comes down to personal taste. If you want bold, eye-catching styles, Mission Belt has greater aesthetic variety. For understated sophistication, Nexbelt may appeal more to your sensibilities.
Pros and Cons Compared
To recap the key finding of this comparison:
Mission Belt Pros
- Better price point, especially for non-leather belts
- Wider range of colors and prints
- Buckles cost less to replace
- Adjusts in smaller 1/4″ increments
Mission Belt Cons
- Limited leather options
- Buckle shapes not as refined
Nexbelt Pros
- More leather color choices
- Range of buckle finishes and designs
- Slightly wider sizing range
Nexbelt Cons
- Higher base prices across the lineup
- Fewer bold color and print choices
Also Read: Comparison of GRIP6 Narrow And Regular Belts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Mission Belt is still operating and selling belts currently. They have been in business since 2010.
Anson belts feature quality construction that allows them to last for many years with proper care. The materials are durable and don’t stretch or crack. Expect at least 3-5 years of regular use from an Anson belt.
Mission Belt manufactures all their belts locally in Lindon, Utah. They pride themselves on American made craftsmanship.
Anson offers belts in both synthetic polyurethane leather as well as genuine Italian leather. Their real leather line provides high quality full grain leather.
The Verdict
In the end, Mission Belt and Nexbelt both make excellent, customizable belts. They have similar durability, quality and performance.
For a lower price point, bigger variety of styles and cheaper buckle replacements, Mission Belt gets the slight edge.
Nexbelt is ideal if you want refined buckles, more leather options and don’t mind paying a premium.
You really can’t go wrong with either brand. Take a look at their full catalogs and decide which belt’s style suits your tastes the best. Both Mission Belt and Nexbelt will serve you well for years of comfortable wear.
