Thank you Ellocolobo for your wonderful comment. The Buckle probably does look a little strange if you have never seen a pair before. The female strap and buckle are located on the left out side corner of the boot - it is much shorter. The longer inner male strap is longer goes across the front of the boot and pulls the buckle in towards the middle when tightened. If you are making reference to the left side of the buckle itself - the left side has the roller part of the roller style buckle and seems different or short. I hope this helps and clears all things up.