Yes, unfortunately it has happened to me. You can take a piece of bias tape, fold and sew layers so it is strong and thinner, and zigzag the ends on top and bottom of torn section (I would also zigzag or something to the place where it was, to reinforce area). Just make sure the metal piece hooks over it, don't make it too thick. Hope I described it well enough to visualize. You could also crochet a piece with strong string, but it might not work for men's pants. Good luck!