A holding arrangement for a respiratory mask includes a strap portion having at least a portion providing a multi-layered construction including a rigid or semi-rigid material enclosed by a softer, patient contacting material. The rigid or semi-rigid material includes a flat plastic layer and the softer, patient contacting material includes a fabric layer provided between the flat plastic layer and the patient's skin and adapted to contact the patient's skin. Lateral edges of the multi-layered construction are fixed by stitching.
