This is a big improvement over other ratchet buckles which are much heavier and release the lever on the side which is sometimes difficult to release. I have one of these and I don't care. It is much easier. so that it does not sag like heavy ones. And releasing the ratchet is as easy as lifting the front of the buckle. super easy. In addition, it mimics the look of a "regular" belt, which has holes in the belt and a latch protruding from the buckle. So if you're an old-school guy and you like that look, this is for you. Two straps at this price isn't the deal of the century but reasonable for what you get. I went for brown and black with identical matte bronze buckles. So for men, this is probably all you need to cover all the colors in your wardrobe. Probably real leather. I can't argue Fairly soft (not hard) with good grain. Not too wide, so suitable for jeans and dresses. As with all belts of this type, cut with scissors. Lift the tab at the other end to attach the strap to the buckle. Waist up to 44 inches. Nicely packaged in a retail box.