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 takes what already works and makes it simpler, faster, and easier to use. 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, and again if you don’t use them often enough. 

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 thread the strap, pull it tight and flip the overcenter buckle closed.

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. Once you remove the slack, closing the buckle past center locks it in place. This, for the most part, is what locks the buckle in place.

This design allows accidental release, which can lead to serious and dangerous consequences.

Same action but without the risks

The FlipTite buckle, on the other hand, locks just as simply, but without the same risks. To lock a FlipTite buckle, you simply rotate the buckle, pressing down on the tongue until you hear the locking bar click into place, and visually checking to be sure both ends of the bar are secure. But FlipTite buckles don’t rely on tension alone to hold the “easiest tie down straps ever” in place. FlipTite buckles stay locked until you deliberately release them, making them a reliable alternative to traditional ratchet straps.

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. Overcenter buckles are easy to unlock.
But that simplicity comes with a downside. Catching the loose end of the strap or the edge of the buckle can cause an 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 simple enough for a 10-year-old to use, yet it stays locked and secure until you choose to release 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 is needed 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.