A magnetic buckle includes first and second buckle members. The first buckle member includes a first end and a second end adapted to engage a strap, a mounting surface, a latching aperture defined in the mounting surface, and a first magnet. A release direction extends along a longitudinal axis of the first buckle member from the first end to the second end. The second buckle member includes a joining surface adapted to be joined with the mounting surface, a latch hook adapted to engage the latching aperture extending from the joining surface, and a second magnet. The magnets pull the latch hook into engagement with the latching aperture when the joining surface is placed in proximity to the mounting surface. Engagement of the latching aperture by the latch hook prevents the second buckle member from being pulled apart from the first buckle member in a direction orthogonal to the mounting surface or against the release direction.