I've had no problem with brittle buckles on Bailey Works and Ortlieb courier bags. Get the Ortlieb if you like waterproof, but not so much if you like different pockets in your bag to organize stuff. Retired because it was a bit too large and the roll top closure was a bit much to get into all the time. Bailey Works bag is what I replaced it with and it's still going strong many years later. Made in NH, used in Boston, held up great to cold in both climates.