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2022-04-19 08:57:49 By : Mr. Starry Song

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These genius accessories keep your tools handy while providing comfort and support, no matter the job.

Tool belts are a necessity when tackling larger DIY and construction tasks, making it easy to drastically cut down on time wasted running back and forth to your tool box or garage. Unfortunately, if they’re particularly heavy, or if you have a slim body type, a tool belt can quickly start to slide down and become more of a hindrance than a help. Tool belt suspenders prevent this from happening, and transfer much of the weight of your tools to your shoulders instead of your waist and lower back. They’re also designed with maximum comfort in mind, and are easy to adjust to your specific height and body type.

It might sound obvious, but when choosing a pair of tool belt suspenders, think about what you’d like them to do. Apart from holding up your tool belt, some options provide additional storage for items you'd like to keep easily accessible, incorporating cell phone pockets or pencil sleeves into their design. Others utilize high-visibility colors and reflectors, making them valuable for those who work in low-light conditions.

You should also think about how much support you’ll need. While most use a standard four-point support system—with two clips in the front and two in the back—others offer five points for extra support. Or, if you’ll be carrying a relatively light load, three-point suspenders may be ideal, and can cut down on unnecessary bulk.

The material the suspenders are made from is another important factor to consider. While leather options are typically less bulky and more durable over time, they do tend to be more expensive than other types, so keep that in mind. Those made from polyester or nylon might be slightly less durable, but would still be a perfectly fine choice for most DIYers.

During my time as a commercial carpenter in New York City, I used several types of tool belts and suspender systems on a range of different jobs and projects. I tapped into this experience when putting together this article, and used additional online research to curate this list of picks. I also wanted to ensure that there were a few options that included the tool belt itself for those starting from scratch, or those eager to overhaul their current tool belt kit. Pricing was also kept in mind, so regardless of your budget, you should be able to find an option that fits your needs.

Although they cost a bit more than polyester or nylon models, these leather tool belt suspenders would be a great investment for those looking for a durable, long-lasting, high-quality option. Their thick straps are strong enough to hold a ton of weight, but are still significantly less bulky than many other models, making them easy to put on and take off when you’re finished working. 

Heavy-duty spring clips allow you to connect to your belt quickly and easily, and the wide shoulder pads can be removed if you prefer a low-profile feel.

If you want your suspenders to offer storage options as well as support for your belt, this MeloTough model could be the perfect fit. Its magnetic pad is convenient for keeping screws, nails, and other metal accessories within easy reach while you work, and the removable cell phone case allows you to keep your phone easily accessible, as well as safe from accidental damage on the job site. 

The breathable mesh foam used in the shoulder straps makes these suspenders comfortable to wear as well, and you can choose from a range of six color options.

This combination set from DeWALT includes a full tool belt in addition to the suspenders, making it a great choice for those looking for a whole new work rig. The belt offers 20 separate pockets as well as a rear-mounted hammer loop, and can fit waist sizes from 29 to 44 inches in diameter. 

The four-point suspenders are fully adjustable, and at less than five pounds, the entire unit is light enough to not weigh you down too much as you work. With a padded cell phone case and strap-mounted pencil holder, these suspenders offer a nice amount of storage, as well.

Just because you’re on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t snag a great pair of tool belt suspenders. This MeloTough set costs just $20, but still provides the support you need, and even uses nickel-plated hooks, as opposed to the plastic versions included in many similar low-budget options.

This set also features a hanging loop for easy storage and four three-inch belt loops, making it compatible with a wide range of belt sizes and types. The extra-wide padded shoulder straps make these suspenders comfortable to wear for longer periods of time, and can be removed if you prefer.

If money’s no object, and you’re looking to replace your entire work rig, this Estwing suspender and belt set could be the perfect fit. Thanks to its five points of connection—unlike the four points of most other options—it’s also the most supportive suspender model on our list, and great for extra-heavy loads. 

The leather belt is also padded with a breathable mesh liner, making it comfortable for extended use, and features 13 pockets and five tool loops. The riveted stress points and leather components make this high-quality set extremely durable as well.

If you’re working at night, on a busy job site, or near roadways, the high-visibility color and reflective strips of these suspenders could be a real lifesaver. They also supply a nice amount of storage options too, like a cell phone holder—which could be used to store other tools if you prefer—as well as three convenient pencil holders.

While this three-point model isn't quite as supportive as the four- or five-point options on our list, if you aren’t carrying a ton of weight, or just want something a bit less bulky, these could still be a fine option. 

We love using magnets as storage and organizational tools, which is why adding this MagnoGrip belt and suspenders to our list was a no-brainer. It features three large magnetic panels on the belt, as well as another detachable version on the suspenders themselves. 

The three-point suspension, although not as supportive as four- or five-point options, could be a benefit for those who won’t be hauling especially heavy gear on their belt. 

Our hands-on experience with MagnoGrip belts and pouches has been overwhelmingly positive, due to their durability and practical application on job sites.

These Voltstorm suspenders and tool belt would probably be overkill for the casual user, but if you’re going to be tackling a full remodel or framing job, they could be a great choice. 

The thick, ballistic nylon straps should be durable enough to withstand the abuse of a busy job site, and with 20 pockets to choose from, you’ll be able to carry around as many tools and accessories as you need. A water bottle holder is another nice perk that could really come in handy when working outdoors or in the summertime.