REVIEW: Velocity Systems Operators Utility Belt Gen 2

Battle Belts, also padded belts with PALS loops, are still very popular among users worldwide. However, this solution has clear disadvantages: Smaller users often have problems wearing these belts in conjunction with plate carriers or even protective vests, and users with an athletic figure found that the belt often slipped, affecting the drawing process of the sidearm. Additionally, many models do not allow for the attachment of belt pouches or belt holsters. The manufacturer Velocity Systems from the USA has an interesting solution for all these problems with their Operator Utility Belt Gen 2 in their range. In the past, all these problems were addressed by manufacturers, but many systems simply had their drawbacks.

Structure: Velocity Systems has always intended to build an airy and minimalist belt. This belt is anatomically preformed and consists mainly of mesh fabric. The padding consists of a thin layer of Airmesh and to prevent sagging under heavy loads, it is reinforced with plastic struts. The PALS webbing is sewn onto this construction in pairs of panels, allowing the (not included) inner belt to be threaded through the loops created, enabling the attachment of belt holsters or drop holsters. On the back, the PALS loops are attached in the conventional way: This prevents the loops from running "out-of-spec" (unlike other belts of this type) and making it impossible to attach larger pouches such as IFAKs.

Now we come to a real unique selling point: The belt has not only Airmesh on the inside, but also an especially thin Velcro material, giving the user the option to attach the belt to a Velcro inner belt, keeping the belt securely in place once attached. For those who want to go even further, the Utility Belt can also be secured with a Velcro "OneWrap" loop located on the rear inside in the rear belt loops of the pants. Gone are the days when one could justify a "tactical belly" with one's duty belt.

In fact, the belt can be further integrated into the pants because there are two straps on the front inside through which the inner belt can be threaded. A really well-implemented idea that allows us several ways of wearing it. Velocity Systems has informed us that in the near future, a completely Velcro-covered inner belt with an "AustriAlpin Cobra" buckle is set to be released.

Unfortunately, the belt lacks one feature: a lower opening that allows for the attachment of a subload under a side with pockets. However, this fact also prevents an end user from blocking their drop holster with bulky pockets.

CONCLUSION: The feeling of wearing the belt is very comfortable. The thin padding is perfectly placed and in the smallest size, the belt fits wearers with a waist size of 32 perfectly. Whether in action or at the range, the Velocity Systems Operators Utility Belt is perfect as a minimalist belt that does not lack any features of a "larger" load-bearing belt. When the belt is attached with Velcro to an inner belt or even secured with the other stabilization features, there is no need to worry about it slipping, sliding, or ending up under the wearer's armpits during sliding, jumping, or climbing. Other manufacturers work to ensure this functionality with sweat-inducing neoprene or one has to tighten the combat belt so tightly around the hips that there is a risk of suffocation.

The Velocity Systems Load-Bearing Utility Belt is available at GearManiacs for 115 euros, enquiries to [email protected].