For more than a decade, Arcade has gone a different direction during the holiday rush. While most brands race to slash prices, Arcade leans into something more meaningful: strengthening the outdoor community through their annual Paying It Forward initiative.
But before I dive into the details, I want to be transparent about something:
I’m not just reporting on Arcade—I’m a believer in Arcade.
Their belts quite literally changed how I live outdoors and how comfortable I feel every single day. They are the only belts I wear. Period. On trail, on snow, on long drives through the Sierra backroads, even at church or in a pair of dress slacks at a nice dinner—these belts just work. They’re durable, flexible, ridiculously comfortable, machine washable, and built for the way active people move. In my world of hiking big miles, crawling into backpacks, bending, twisting, layering, and trying to stay comfortable from dawn to dusk, they’ve become part of my everyday kit.
And what makes me love them more is this:
They build gear with ethics, purpose, and community in mind.
Arcade doesn’t need to run sales to create value. Their belts are already a deal. Honestly, buy two. Buy three. You won’t regret it.
And that is why their holiday approach means so much.
Paying It Forward: A Holiday Tradition That Makes a Real Impact
From November 24 through December 1, Arcade will donate $5 from every belt sold to Big City Mountaineers, a national nonprofit providing free, fully outfitted, professionally led outdoor and backcountry trips for youth ages 12–18 from under-resourced communities.
These are authentic, life-changing wilderness experiences—many of them firsts.
As someone who has spent decades exploring the Sierra and believes deeply in the emotional and personal power of wild places, this mission aligns completely with what Sierra Rec stands for:
More people discovering the outdoors, more youth finding confidence and belonging, and more opportunities for communities who are too often left out.
This marks Arcade’s sixth consecutive year partnering with Big City Mountaineers. In 2024 alone, Arcade raised $15,000 to help more young people experience nature in ways that stay with them for a lifetime.
It’s not performative. It’s not marketing fluff.
It’s simply Arcade showing who they are.
Sierra Rec Gear Picks: The Arcade Belts Worth Owning
Arcade’s lineup this year is stacked. Here are the belts that fit naturally into a Sierra lifestyle—skiing, hiking, traveling, or slipping into nicer clothes when the occasion calls for it.
Arcade Atlas Belt
This is the “every single day” belt. Lightweight, stretchy, and clean-cut. I’ve worn it through multi-day hiking miles and then straight into a dinner. Quick-drying and metal-free for travelers.
Hardware Alu Belt
For people who want a belt that feels bombproof. The aluminum buckle adds strength while keeping the flex Arcade is known for.
Motion Belt
The belt I wear when I’m heading out for miles or snowshoeing in deep winter. Flexible, soft, and invisible under layers.
Futureweave Belt
The tech-forward belt for gear nerds. The woven structure adds long-term resilience—great for backpackers, skiers, and anyone who tends to be hard on gear.
Momentum Belt
My go-to for athletic days and layering season. Made for movement-heavy adventures.
Why This Matters for the Sierra Outdoor Community
If you’re like me, you understand the privilege of wandering through Yosemite, Emigrant, Carson-Iceberg, the Lake Tahoe Basin, or the wild corners of the Cascades. Not everyone gets that chance.
Big City Mountaineers changes that.
Arcade supports that change.
And buying a belt during this window helps more youth walk farther, climb higher, and discover what time outdoors can do for the soul.
FAQ: Arcade Paying It Forward Holiday Program
What is Arcade’s Paying It Forward initiative?
An annual program where Arcade donates $5 per belt sold to Big City Mountaineers from Nov. 24–Dec. 1.
Where does the money go?
Directly toward youth backcountry trips—gear, guides, logistics, and full outdoor immersion.
Does any belt qualify?
Yes. Any belt purchased during the program window.
How long has Arcade supported BCM?
This is their sixth year partnering.
Why no Black Friday sale?
Arcade believes the belts already provide value. This week is about giving, not discounts.
Where can I buy a belt?
Directly from Arcade’s website or authorized partners.
