Abstract: A load spreading belt includes a buckle closure and an elongated flexible strap having a pair of ends. A pad of locking catches is mounted on one end of the strap and a pad of catch receivers is mounted on another end of the strap. When the strap encircles a load to be retained in position, the ends of the strap overlap such that the locking catches and catch receivers are in mating engagement. The buckle includes a top and a base. A rear plate and a pair of posts spaced from the rear plate, extend between the top and the base and define a passage therebetween. One end of the strap extends through the passage with the locking catches extending outwardly on either side of each post to removably retain the buckle on the strap. In one embodiment a door is hingedly attached to the base of the buckle and closes around the strap ends when the locking catches and catch receivers are in mating engagement.