A high-quality, well-equipped tool belt that keeps a variety of tools within easy reach is the ultimate jobsite accessory. The best tool belts will fit well, look good, and carry all the tools needed for a particular job at the ready to make any project run smoothly.
What to Look for in the Best Tool Belts
A trusty tool belt is worth its weight in gold, so it’s important to choose the right one for the job at hand—a tool holder with just the right mix of bells, whistles, and rugged convenience. When you’re looking for a new tool belt, here’s what to consider:
- Material: Heavy-duty tool belts are typically constructed with durable nylon or leather, great for hauling around lots of equipment. But the more robust the belt, the more it weighs. For occasional light-duty jobs, synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester will do the trick. For medium-duty tasks, cotton canvas, faux leather, and heavier-grade synthetics lend more strength and durability than lightweight belts while not being overly heavy.
- Number of pockets: On one hand, more pockets mean more tools you can carry. But more tools mean more weight. The best tool belts have a mix of large pockets and small ones with strong edges and seams that are double-stitched and sometimes riveted, so you can stash different types of tools and accessories. Figure out what you need to carry with you, and choose a tool belt with enough pockets and hook-and-loop or clip fasteners to hold all the items while being easy to reach.
- Waist size: Tool belts come in many different size ranges and configurations, with some having expandable panels or adjustable closures. Find one in your size range and try it on (if possible) to make sure it fits properly.
- Belt supports: Basic lightweight belts carry a few tools and supplies. To carry more equipment, some belts are available with a suspender, or shoulder harness, which takes weight off the belt and your back and puts it on your shoulders. Look for suspenders with quality padding for better long-lasting comfort.
- Other features: While pockets and tool loops can help with organization, the location of them on a belt can help or frustrate, so choose a layout that matches your work and personal preference. Check the tool loop size to make sure they’re the right size to hold your tools. Metal clips and buckles will last longer but are heavier than plastic ones. Quick-release buckles can be convenient, especially if your belt has suspenders. And for the ultimate convenience, a phone pocket is far more accessible than your pants pocket and safer than a belt clip.
Types of Tool Belts
With all the different materials and features available, it’s not surprising there are many types of tool belts to choose from. We’re here to tell you about the different styles and help you find one that’s right for your job.
1. All-Purpose Contractor Work Belt
With an attached suspender, many pockets, and multiple pouches, this type of rig can carry lots of tools, parts, and accessories. The holsters and pouches can be positioned along the sides or on your back so they stay out of the way when bending or crouching.
Light-duty jobs which require several tools need a belt with lots of pockets. Multiple pockets on a rugged canvas belt will stow any equipment you need for easy access, plus a quick-release buckle lets you take it off quickly for breaks or at the end of the day.
3. Black Polyester with Pockets
This abrasion-resistant polyester tool holster attaches to your belt. Stash a small flashlight in the attached loop and a variety of tools in the four small pockets. There’s even a hook for your key ring.
Another way to carry tools is to wear a tool vest over your chest. With many pockets, pouches, and slots spread across a wide area, vests can carry a lot without being as bulky as some belts. Fasteners in front make it easy to take on and off.
If you have an existing tool belt, add a padded suspension rig to take the load off your waist and back and shift it onto your shoulders. Pockets can hold extra tools, including a cell phone.
6. Aerial Apron
For linemen, an apron can be the perfect portable tool caddy. Attached to a strap around the back, the apron keeps tools in front where they’re needed. Bright orange vinyl is weather-resistant and protects tools, plus makes the wearer more visible.
A work belt is a basic belt, often with a quick-release buckle, that you can attach several different pouches, holsters, and other tool carriers onto. It allows for ultimate versatility in choosing what you want or need to carry.
8. Brown Canvas Adjustable Tool Apron with Pockets
This apron has padded shoulders that make carrying multiple tools more comfortable. Its bib design covers the chest, and the canvas material offers the wearer light protection against pointy objects and flying materials.
9. Tool Sheath
Tough tool sheaths not only protect the tools they carry, they also protect the wearer. They can easily slip onto a work belt alongside other tool carriers.
A tool belt can be found for any project, no matter how big or small. Not only do they offer protection to the tools and user, they also save time and reduce trips to the toolbox or crib by keeping tools and accessories close at hand. At Zoro, you’ll find a huge selection of the best tool belts for every need.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.