When we say that FlipTite buckles are “like an Overcenter buckle, but not,” what do we mean, exactly? You may be familiar with Overcenter buckles, one of the three major types of fasteners in tie-down hardware. If you are, then you’ll know that they each have their advantages. FlipTite makes the easiest tie down straps on the market, which use many of those same concepts, and then improving on them - making them the ultimate ratchet strap alternative. FlipTite buckles are similar to an Overcenter buckle in that they tighten in one simple movement. However, there are a variety of differences that make FlipTite buckles simpler, more secure, and easier to use. Let’s take a look at what makes the FlipTite buckle a better choice than the traditional Overcenter buckle.
Threading:
Threading an Overcenter buckle is complex. Up through one slot, down through another. If you’re not familiar with the process, you may need to view an instructional video to make sure you’re getting it right.
When threading a FlipTite buckle, the process is simple and intuitive. Once the buckle itself is unlocked, simply thread the strap into the bottom slot until it pops back out of the top slot. That’s it.
Locking and Unlocking Methods:
Locking an Overcenter buckle is easy - perhaps too easy. Once you’ve figured out the complicated weaving required to get your strap threaded properly, just pull the strap to your desired level of tension, and then rotate the Overcenter buckle shut.
The issue with this locking method is that Overcenter buckles are prone to accidental release. The locking method - merely pushing the buckle down and clasping it into place, leaves Overcenter buckles relying too heavily on the tension created in the strap. This design is such that when all of the slack is removed, the act of “closing” the fastener and crossing over the center (which is how it gets its name) adds the locking action to the buckle. This, for the most part, is what locks the buckle in place.
This passive locking method means that an accidental release can happen easily - and that, of course, can lead to a variety of unpleasant consequences - even dangerous ones.
The FlipTite buckle, on the other hand, locks just as simply, but without the same risks. To lock a FlipTite buckle, you simply flip over the buckle, pressing down on the tongue until you hear the wings click into place, and visually checking to be sure the wings are secure. But FlipTite buckles don’t rely on tension alone to hold the “easiest tie down straps ever” in place. In fact, FlipTite buckles cannot be unlocked without a conscious effort to do so, once again illustrating that they are the ideal ratchet strap alternative.
Now let’s discuss the unlocking method for a typical Overcenter buckle: on most models all you need to do is to lift up on the loose end of the webbing then rotate it at least 90 degrees. While this simple method means that Overcenter buckles are easy to unlock, it also means that catching the loose end of the strap, or the edge of the buckle itself, along with other scenarios, can lead to that unintentional release.
Unlocking a FlipTite buckle, while user-friendly and easy to do with intention, won’t happen accidentally - making the FlipTite buckle a clear improvement. The design is intended to be simple enough for a 10-year-old to use, while staying locked and firmly in place until you’re ready to open it.
Releasing a FlipTite buckle requires intentional disengagement of the “locking wings” - and while simple to do, it won’t happen due to a flailing strap in the wind, accidentally crashing against the buckle, or other unintended scenario. You can be sure your loads are secured with the easiest to use ratchet strap alternative on the market.
The final word?
FlipTite takes the benefits of a typical Overcenter buckle and improves on them. Simpler to use, more secure, and less knowledge about the ins and out of ratchet straps and tension required to simply strap down your load and get on with things - whether it’s moving, hauling, or heading out on an adventure.