Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is a staple for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone requiring a reliable platform for carrying essential gear. Crafted by Gould & Goodrich, a trusted name in duty gear, this belt offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern durability. It’s a duty belt designed to hold up, but does it live up to the demanding standards of daily use?
My need for a dependable duty belt stemmed from my volunteer work with a local search and rescue team. The flimsy nylon belt I was using simply couldn’t handle the weight of my radio, first-aid kit, and multi-tool without sagging and digging into my hips. I needed something sturdy, comfortable, and professional-looking.
Upon unboxing the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched, I was immediately struck by its polished appearance and substantial feel. The hi-gloss finish, combined with the four rows of stitching, gave it a distinctly professional look. The belt felt rigid, promising the support I desperately needed.
I considered the Bianchi Accumold Elite and the Safariland 8700 Duty Belt before ultimately choosing the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched. While the Bianchi offered a similar molded design, it lacked the classic look I was after. The Safariland, while incredibly robust, was overkill for my needs and significantly more expensive.
Initially, I was excited by the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched’s potential to resolve my gear-carrying woes. The rigid construction and polished finish made a strong first impression, and I was eager to see how it performed in the field. Would it be the dependable and comfortable platform I needed, or would it buckle under pressure?
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched was during a weekend training exercise with the search and rescue team in the local state forest. The environment presented a mix of challenges, including steep terrain, dense vegetation, and fluctuating weather conditions. The gear I carried included a Motorola radio, a basic first aid kit, a Leatherman multi-tool, a flashlight, and a spare magazine pouch.
The belt performed admirably, providing stable support for my gear even when traversing uneven terrain. The rigid construction prevented the sagging and shifting I experienced with my previous belt. While hiking uphill in humid conditions, the belt remained relatively comfortable, although I did notice some initial stiffness.
The “E-Z Slide” buckle lived up to its name, allowing for quick adjustments throughout the day as needed. However, after the first few hours, I experienced some minor chafing around the buckle area, possibly due to the belt’s initial rigidity and lack of break-in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. The initial stiffness gradually subsided, and the belt molded to my body, enhancing comfort. The hi-gloss finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scuffs and scratches from daily wear and tear.
There are only slight signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor creasing around the buckle and attachment points. Cleaning and maintaining the belt is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The weatherproof polymer laminate construction truly shines in this regard.
Compared to my previous nylon belt, the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is a night-and-day improvement. The Gould & Goodrich belt provides superior support, durability, and a professional appearance that inspires confidence. While it may not be as feature-rich as some high-end tactical belts, it excels in its intended role as a reliable and straightforward duty platform.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched
Specifications
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality. It is constructed from a durable, weatherproof polymer laminate molded with Kydex, giving it the look of fine leather while offering superior resistance to the elements. The belt is 2-1/4 inches wide, providing ample space for attaching standard duty gear accessories.
The “E-Z Slide” buckle is crafted from polished brass and is easily removable for customization or replacement. Four rows of stitching add to the belt’s durability and provide a classic, professional aesthetic. It’s available in various sizes, ranging from 24 to 60 inches, ensuring a proper fit for most users. The belt is fully lined for added comfort and to prevent gear from shifting during use.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the belt’s ability to perform its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying essential gear. The 2-1/4 inch width provides a stable platform for holsters, pouches, and other accessories, while the polymer laminate construction ensures long-lasting durability. The removable buckle offers flexibility and customization options.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched performs its job admirably, providing a stable and reliable platform for carrying essential gear. It is significantly more comfortable and supportive than typical nylon duty belts. The rigid construction prevents sagging and shifting.
One of the belt’s strengths is its ease of use. The E-Z Slide buckle allows for quick and simple adjustments. The rigid construction also ensures that holsters and pouches remain securely in place.
However, the belt’s initial stiffness can be a minor drawback, requiring a break-in period for optimal comfort. Some users may also find the lack of additional features, such as MOLLE webbing, limiting in terms of customization options. The belt meets expectations by providing a dependable and professional-looking duty platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched boasts a classic, no-nonsense design that prioritizes functionality and durability. The hi-gloss finish and four rows of stitching contribute to its professional appearance. The use of polymer laminate and Kydex provides a lightweight yet rigid construction.
The belt is generally comfortable to wear, especially after the initial break-in period. However, some users may experience minor chafing around the buckle area, particularly during strenuous activity. There’s minimal learning curve; it is immediately user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to its durable construction and weatherproof materials, the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is built to last. The polymer laminate is highly resistant to scratches, scuffs, and moisture damage. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to keep the belt in good condition.
The belt is relatively easy to maintain and repair, with the removable buckle allowing for simple replacement if necessary. Overall, the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched offers excellent long-term durability and minimal maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is primarily designed to be used with standard duty gear accessories, such as holsters, magazine pouches, and radio carriers. While it does not come with any specific accessories included, its 2-1/4 inch width is compatible with a wide range of commercially available duty belt accessories.
The removable E-Z Slide buckle offers a degree of customization. Users can replace it with other buckles of their choosing. The belt is also compatible with various belt keepers, which can be used to further secure accessories and prevent them from shifting.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched
Pros
- Provides excellent support for duty gear, preventing sagging and shifting.
- Durable polymer laminate construction is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and moisture.
- The E-Z Slide buckle allows for quick and easy adjustments.
- Professional hi-gloss finish and four-row stitching offer a classic, polished look.
- Easy to clean and maintain with a simple wipe-down.
Cons
- Initial stiffness may require a break-in period for optimal comfort.
- Lack of additional features, such as MOLLE webbing, may limit customization options for some users.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched?
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a reliable and professional-looking platform for carrying essential gear. It is also a great option for search and rescue volunteers or anyone who needs a durable and supportive belt for carrying equipment in demanding environments.
Those who require extensive customization options or prefer a more tactical-oriented design should skip this product. It is a no-frills duty belt that prioritizes functionality and durability over advanced features. A must-have accessory is a set of quality belt keepers to keep the belt securely in place and prevent gear from shifting.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched
The Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched is a reliable and durable duty belt that offers excellent support and a professional appearance. It’s constructed from high-quality materials. Its ease of use and minimal maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for anyone who needs a dependable platform for carrying essential gear.
At a price of $53.56, the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched offers excellent value for the money. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a dependable and professional-looking duty belt.
I would definitely recommend the Gould & Goodrich E-Z Slide Duty Belt w/4 Row Stitched to anyone looking for a sturdy, reliable, and professional-looking duty belt. It’s a no-nonsense piece of gear that gets the job done without any unnecessary frills. Consider investing in this belt, you won’t be disappointed.