Quick answer: To replace a championship belt strap, unscrew the plates from the back of the old strap, lay them on the new strap in the same order, mark the screw holes, punch them and screw the plates back on. With a screwdriver and a leather punch it takes about an hour. A real leather replacement strap from Zees Belts costs $79.99 and comes in 50, 54 and 58 inch lengths.
Why collectors change the strap first
On many replica belts the plates look good and the strap lets them down. Stiff synthetic straps hold a curl from the box, crack around the snaps and never sit flat on a shelf or around the waist. A real leather strap bends properly, lies flat for display and gets better with age. Changing the strap is called releathering, and it is the most common upgrade collectors make.
What you need
- A real leather replacement strap in the right length
- A screwdriver that fits your plate screws (most are Phillips)
- A leather hole punch or an awl
- A pencil or silver marker
- A soft towel to protect the plates
- A small bowl for the screws
How to pick the right strap length
Lay your old strap flat and measure it from end to end. Most full-size adult belts are 50 to 52 inches long. Zees Belts straps come in three lengths:
| Strap length | Pick it when |
|---|---|
| 50 in | Your current strap is about 50 inches and fits well |
| 54 in | Your current strap feels short, or you wear the belt over a jacket or gear |
| 58 in | You need the most room around the waist |
If you are between two sizes, go longer. The snaps give you several positions to tighten it.
How to replace the strap, step by step
- Take a photo of the front. You will use it to put every plate back in the same place.
- Lay the belt face down on a towel. The screw heads are on the back of the strap.
- Unscrew every plate. Keep the screws in a bowl, grouped by plate. Lift the plates off gently.
- Place the plates on the new strap. Start with the center plate in the middle, then the side plates, using your photo. Check that the gaps are even on both sides.
- Mark the screw holes. Hold each plate still and mark through its screw posts or holes with the pencil.
- Punch the holes. Punch each mark cleanly. Keep the holes small so the screws grip the leather.
- Screw the plates on. Tighten by hand until snug. Do not over-tighten, because that can strip the post.
- Test the snaps. Wrap the belt around your waist and close it in two or three positions.
Mistakes to avoid
- Punching before you check the layout. Mark all plates first, step back, then punch.
- Using a power drill on the screws. Hand tools are enough and safer for the plating.
- Laying plates face down on a hard table. Always use a towel.
- Ordering by waist size alone. Measure the old strap end to end.
How to look after a leather strap
Condition the leather every few months and store the belt flat or on a stand, not folded. Wipe the metal plates gently with an ammonia-free glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the strap on any replica belt?
Yes, on most adult replica belts. The plates are held by screws through the strap, so they can be moved to a new strap. Plate holes on the Zees Belts strap are not pre-punched. You mark them from your own plates, so the strap works with different plate layouts.
How much does a replacement strap cost?
The Zees Belts real leather replacement strap is $79.99 in every length, with free shipping to the USA and Canada.
How long does releathering take?
About an hour for a five-plate belt if you work carefully.
Do I need special tools?
No. A screwdriver and a leather hole punch are enough.
Would a new custom belt be a better choice?
If the plates are damaged or you want your own name and logo, a new belt makes more sense. See the custom championship belts or the full replacement straps collection.
Zees Belts makes custom championship belts and unofficial replica belts to order. The belts and straps are not licensed by or affiliated with any wrestling promotion, league or team.