Cowboy Belts: how to know which one suits you best

Cowboy belts are an iconic piece of western fashion that has endured throughout the years. Whether you are a lover of cowboy culture or simply want to add a touch of original and distinctive style to your closet, cowboy belts can be the perfect choice.

You can wear them either with your favorite jeans or to give a unique touch to a dress or a shirt: choosing the right cowboy belt can make the difference in your look.

However, and taking into account the variety of models to choose from, how can you know which type of cowboy belt suits you best? In this article, from Corbeto ‘s we will give you tips to help you choose the perfect belt for you.

Cowboy belts: featured brands and styles

Cowboy belts come in a variety of styles, each with its own charm and personality. In Corbeto’s catalog you will find a selection of high quality leather cowboy belts for any occasion. Our belts, from such prominent brands as Sendra, Original Belts, Nocona, Ariat or Stars & Stripes, are made with two layers of leather to ensure durability and strength, and some models may include decorative elements such as python skin scales, metal conchos, inlaid stones, leather braiding… There are designs for all tastes, from the most austere to the most colorful. 

Some of our belts are the perfect complement to match your Sendra Boots and Mayura Boots, but you won’t find it difficult to match them with any denim style either: you will see how your outfit is instantly enhanced.

Another important aspect of the belts that you will find in Corbeto’s is that they allow you to change the buckles to your liking, customizing your belt at any time with other models of our buckles, since they are of standard width.

Tooled leather belts

One of the most outstanding aspects of these belts is the engraving on the leather. These engravings usually represent floral designs, leaves, horseshoes, horses or other motifs of cowboy culture. On some belt models, the engravings also appear on the buckle, or only on the buckle and the leather of the belt remains smooth.

The engravings on cowboy buckles have a decisive importance in the aesthetics of the belt. The most common are floral designs, horseshoes, the characteristic longhorn or cow skull design, eagles, stars, horses, feathers, Indian heads, inlaid stones, or the initial surrounded by filigrees. In general, belts with western engravings are distinctive of a marked and traditional cowboy style.

Western belts with conchos and braids

They are usually quite decorative and stand out for their oval conchos, usually made of nickel, which are distributed throughout the belt or a good part of it. The braiding with natural thread usually runs through the whole piece, and the final effect is ideal if you are looking for a touch of bold style. In some cases, instead of conchos there are other more widely spaced inserts, such as snakeskin or metallic appliqués in the shape of a cow skull. The buckles on this style of belt can be plain, creating an interesting contrast when there are many conchos on the belt, or buckles engraved with a design in line with the inserts, such as cow skulls.

Plain leather belts

If simple or sober lines are your thing, you can opt for a plain leather belt. One of the advantages of this design is that it combines well with practically everything, both with a markedly western outfit and for any casual or formal look.

And since our belts have an interchangeable buckle, you will always have the possibility, if an occasion arises when you are looking for a more powerful look, to use a larger buckle, with engravings or western style.

Cowboy belts with big buckles

Large and striking buckles are historically a distinctive feature of cowboy belts because of their usefulness, since initially the large buckles were devised as a safety element to protect our body from the blows that we give us with the saddle when riding in that area of the lower abdomen. You can choose from a variety of buckle designs, from classic to more elaborate. In the Corbeto ‘s catalog you will find an abundance of buckles with engravings that include intricate floral designs, both large and small.

Buckles with animal motifs, such as horses, are also common, reflecting a shared hobby with cowboy riding enthusiasts. Of particular note are buckles with cow, buffalo or bull skulls, sometimes known as “longhorns.” Other popular options include rattlesnakes, wolves, coyotes and buckles personalized with your first initial or last name, a practice rooted in cowboy culture.

And if more than a cowboy belt you are looking for a real jewel for your waist, we also offer a selection of silver and bronze plated buckles from Crumrine Silversmiths, handcrafted in Mexico and at an exceptional price and also from the prestigious American brand Montana Silversmiths with some spectacular designs. In all of them the quality and detail in the finishes are exceptional: it is worthwhile that you also discover them in our store.

Importance of material and size

Cowhide is the most common material used for cowboy belts, but there are several options available, including genuine leather, synthetic leather and exotic leather. Genuine leather is durable and wears slowly over time. If you prefer something more upscale, exotic leather belts, such as python snake, can be an impressive choice.

It is essential that you choose the right size cowboy belt. Measure your waist or where you plan to wear the belt to determine the length you need (on the Corbeto’s website you will find a handy size guide for each belt to choose the right size for your waist). Keep in mind that cowboy belts are often wider (3.8 to 4 cm) than conventional belts, so make sure the width is comfortable and suitable for the belt loops of your pants. And if you are looking for specific jeans to wear with cowboy boots and cowboy belts, you will also find them at Corbeto’s.

Finally, choose a cowboy belt that suits your personal style. If you are a western fashion lover or you are looking for a perfect accessory for your country line dance sessions, don’t hesitate to opt for a belt with an authentic and powerful design. If you prefer a more subtle approach, choose a plain belt or one with less flashy details.

In short, choosing the perfect cowboy belt involves knowing the different styles to choose, betting on the quality of materials and recognized brands, finding the right size, and choosing a model that is consistent with your style. It doesn’t matter if you are a fan of cowboy culture or simply want to incorporate a rustic touch to your outfit: a well-chosen cowboy belt can be the key piece that distinguishes your style.