DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
Topping our list is a suspender-style toolbelt, which makes carrying a full load of tools an easy task. This is because it’s designed with fully padded yoke-style suspenders with pockets. The suspenders straps are designed with breathable mesh to make them more comfortable on the back and shoulders.
The belt area is fitted with adjustable pouch pockets with nine zippered main pockets, 11 smaller pockets, and sleeves to fit nails and pencils. Also, storing large tools isn’t an issue with this belt since it includes a hammer loop, utility knife pocket, and a carabiner for hooking your keys. Lastly, it accommodates waist sizes between 29 and 46 inches.
The main issue with this tool belt is that it seems that there are two different qualities of the suspender connectors being sold. Some have high-quality metal connectors and others appear to come with cheap plastic buckles. Make sure to get it from an authorized dealer to get the best version.
Made by MagnoGrip, this carpenter’s tool belt could be an easy and affordable solution to keeping your tools on hand. The belt is made from double-layer polyester, and has 12 pockets with magnetic fasteners to keep the tools from spilling. The magnetic strips also allow you to store nails outside the pockets.
Stress points throughout the belt are reinforced with rivets to prevent tears. Also, the belt is wide and the pouches are well-spaced out to distribute weight and pressure more evenly. Moreover, it comes in one size and is recommended for medium-sized people.
However, it can get pretty uncomfortable when the plastic lining at the bottom of the pouches rubs against your thighs. In addition, the pockets are small and would only be good for storing smaller tools such as screwdrivers and nails. It’s also not the best for metal works since the magnetic strips can attract nails and metal shavings on the table.
Less is more with the Gatorback B145, which only has nine pockets, but they are large and sturdy enough to hold a hammer. The pouches are fixed on a heavy-duty belt made from DuraTek nylon that protects the belt from scratches and tears. To further support the belt’s integrity, it’s riveted and bar-tacked at each stress point, which prevents the belt from stretching out and tearing with frequent use.
The pockets are made with a box design with an inner plastic lining, which keeps them from sagging and losing their shape. The plastic lining is designed to be resistant to holes that form on the bottom of the pouch. In addition, Gatorback’s patented airflow technology keeps the nylon mesh breathable to prevent excessive sweating. Above all, you will appreciate that it’s available in a variety of sizes ranging from small to large.
Despite all that goes into making the pouches durable, it has been noted that the pouches start to tear and come off the belt the more you use it. In addition, the rear bag is awkwardly large and can feel uncomfortable on your back.
Tips
- Before purchasing a tool belt, make a list of the tools you want to store in the belt. Check the pockets and loops to see if the tool belt will hold a hammer, tape measure, or whatever else you need for a particular project.
- If you’re using a ladder, put the minimum number of tools you need in your tool belt. You don’t want to get bogged down by tools you’re not going to use. This will also protect your back from strains.
- A padded tool belt is advantageous if you’re going to be working all day long. If you’re on a roof, working on a job site, or tinkering around your home, a padded belt will be much more comfortable.
BEST TOOL BELT 