Small or Regular? How to size a duty belt back brace
Who this is for
If you wear a duty belt on shift and you're picking a BackUpBrace size, this page is for you. The brace threads onto the belt you already wear. It spreads the weight of your gear and eases pressure on your hips. There are two sizes. Get the one that matches your waist and you'll have an easier time with belt space and keepers.
Quick pick
| Your waist | Get this size | Weight (Tough Nylon) |
|---|---|---|
| 33" and below | Small | 0.3 lb |
| 34" and above | Regular | 0.4 lb |
Not sure which row you're in? Measure once, then use the table. Details are below.
How to measure
Use a soft tape measure. Wrap it around your waist where your duty belt sits when you're in uniform. Note the inches. That number is what you match to the table.
- 33 inches or less → Small
- 34 inches or more → Regular
If you're right on 33 inches, take Small. That leaves a bit more room for keepers and the rest of your gear.
Belt space and keepers
The brace attaches with Velcro. You get two custom belt keepers and a Velcro strip in the box.
On a smaller waist, everything shares less belt real estate. Some officers with smaller waists say keepers feel crowded if the brace is the larger size. Choosing Small when your waist is 33 inches or under helps that.
Your holster, radio, cuffs, and other gear stay where they are. The brace sits on the inside of the belt against your lower back.
Inner and outer belts
If you run a standard inner/outer duty belt setup, you're covered. BackUpBrace works with those configurations. You don't need a special belt to use it.
Ordered the wrong size?
We don't exchange sizes in place. Return the brace within 30 days of delivery for a refund, then order the size (or finish) you need. Shipping is free in the US. Every brace includes a one-year manufacturing warranty.
FAQ
Do leather finishes size the same as Tough Nylon?
Yes. Small and Regular mean the same waist ranges on Tough Nylon, Smooth Leather, Basket Weave, and Patent Leather.
I'm 34 inches. Which size?
Regular.
I'm 33 inches. Which size?
Small.
How light is it?
Tough Nylon Regular is 0.4 lb. Small is 0.3 lb. (Other finish weights aren't listed on the product page, so we don't guess them here.)
Will it fit my belt?
It works with standard duty belt setups, including inner and outer belts.
What if it doesn't help on shift?
Wear it on duty. If it doesn't help, return it within 30 days of delivery.