Introduction: I have several other ratchet straps in my wardrobe and have added another with this beautiful strap. You can't go wrong with a ratchet strap as it offers a ton of flexibility in sizing once it's properly sized and trimmed. I have worn the belt several times and the belt is holding up well. This is a set of hard leather straps. Pros: • Well packaged in a pretty box, ideal as a gift if you want • Nice leather with a quality feel • The ratchet buckle system is just what you need. Once you've cut and adjusted your belt, you can adjust it a few inches, which is great. They don't have stress relief holes in your skin like a regular belt buckle. Disadvantages: • So far I can't think of any disadvantages. Belt gradually until you have adjusted the belt to the correct length for your waist size. You should make smaller lengths first and then try on the belt and buckle to get the right length. I would try the belt on as you usually wear the belt with whatever pants or shorts you intend to wear the belt with. Otherwise you could shorten it and at this point you can't use the belt if the ratchet system doesn't work. longer allows you to activate it. You want the strap to reach the middle of the ratchet area on the leather strap, so measure twice and cut once each time.