***** 2 inches and stiff after a few months. ** I don't really like the buckle just because it leaves a large bulge visible when the shirt is worn loose. ***** It's nice that I can wear it through TSA verification without having to take it off like metal buckles. **** Works well with Mile style suspenders to keep the outfit from causing pant "sagging" when the outfit gets a little heavy. **** Can also be used without any problems when hiking.