Two big crashes this year and two wasted buckles. Thankfully the buckles are not only easy to replace but also reasonably priced. My straps were getting a bit beat up so I replaced them as well and everything felt like new.
The new ratchets work very well. Easy motion and a definite click, whether tightening or backing off. I didn't realize that the old ones were getting progressively worse to use. I only replaced them when one broke.
Sidi shoes are not cheap but they do last since you are able to get replacement parts fairly easily. I replace heels occasionally, but this is the first time I needed to replace my buckle. Exact match to original and easy to install. The little screws that come with it have the BLUE Loctite on them to ensure a secure installation.
Once I did receive the product it was an exact replacement for my Sidi Genius 5 buckle that I damaged in a crash. Installed quickly and easily and is working perfectly. Four stars only because of delayed delivery due to shipping address being entered wrong twice.
My 2009 SIDI Dominator 5s are great trail shoes. My only complaint was the buckle, which easily catches weeds and clogs-up the release mechanism badly. Sometimes so bad I'm stuck inside my shoes! The original buckle was designed poorly and simply not efficient. The plastic release wings always required two fingers to adjust tension and release. With the new Caliper Buckle....everything works with a one-finger touch now.
When upgrading to the Caliper Buckle - there is really no need to buy pricey, matching straps, as the sturdier original Spider strap is fully compatible with the newer buckle...granted you perform one small modification razor-off the two tiny plastic tabs at the strap entry point. Once the tabs are off, the old strap slides straight into the new buckle, as it's the same identical width.
I laid my bike down on a slick mossy section of Portland road (luckily my left side so I didn't wreck the drivetrain). My forearm, thigh, and Sidi buckle took the impact. The buckle broke but luckily stayed rachetted down (thanks Sidi!). Instead of having to toss a perfectly great pair of shoes I simply replaced the buckle. Works as new!