Metal vs Plastic Dog Collar Buckles: Why Wildside Handmade Dog Collars is More Durable Than You Think

One of the most common questions we receive is: "Are your buckles metal or plastic?"

It's a great question, and the answer reveals a lot about our commitment to quality and durability.

We Use YKK Military-Grade Plastic Buckles

All of our handmade collars  feature YKK military-grade plastic buckles made from POM (polyoxymethylene) material—the same trusted hardware used by military forces around the world.

Why We Switched From Metal

We used to carry metal buckles, but they failed us—and more importantly, they failed our customers' dogs. Here's why we made the switch:

The Problem With Cheap Metal Buckles

Most collars on the market use alloy metal buckles, which are surprisingly weak despite their metallic appearance. If you browse one-star reviews on Amazon for dog collars, you'll see the same complaints over and over:

• Buckles unclasping on their own during walks or play
• Springs falling out over time
• Hardware breaking or bending under stress
• Rust and corrosion from exposure to water

Metal comes in many different forms, and the cheap alloy metal used in most collars simply doesn't hold up to the demands of active, outdoor adventures.

Why Military-Grade Plastic Outperforms Metal

Most people assume plastic is weak—but that's not the case with POM material. Here's why our YKK buckles are superior:

• Military trusted: POM is the material of choice for military gear because of its exceptional strength and reliability
• Lightweight: Reduces strain on your dog's neck without sacrificing durability
• Rust-proof: Perfect for water adventures, rain, snow, and muddy trails
• Consistent performance: No springs to fall out, no weakening over time
• Secure closure: Engineered to stay clasped under pressure

The Complete Rust-Proof Package

Our commitment to rust-proof, durable materials doesn't stop at the buckles. Exposing the Truth: Why 'Waterproof' Dog Collars Are Lying to You to learn more about how we engineer every component—from webbing to hardware—for true outdoor performance.

Built for Adventure

When you're hiking mountain trails, exploring national parks, or simply enjoying everyday walks, you need gear you can trust. That's why we chose YKK military-grade plastic buckles—because your dog's safety and your peace of mind are worth it.

Have questions about our hardware or any other aspect of our gear? We'd love to hear from you!