Are expensive lifting belts worth it over budget options?

Specialist-community discussion is mixed: some r/powerlifting users report $60 budget belts perform identically to premium gym belts, while others on r/powerbuilding say premium belts like Pioneer 'outlive your children.' The practical takeaway from reviewers is that a well-made $30–60 belt is enough for the vast majority of lifters, with premium pricing buying longevity and finish rather than dramatically better support.