About 3 years ago I bought two belts made of the same material and with the same function. Unfortunately, the material is a far cry from real leather, but the affordability of this product makes it a good buy. After years of daily use, the surface material tore and the tears caused the belt to get caught in the loops of my dress pants and jeans. Time for a new belt. This is easy to assemble and holds the pants well. The best indicator of whether it works or not.