Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Total Comprehensive Income (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 03, 2016	Mar. 29, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 16,425	$ (19,636)
Foreign currency translation, net of $1.6 million and $1.7 million tax, respectively	(2,187)	13,065
Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, net of $0.3 million and $0.5 million tax, respectively	467	848
Total comprehensive income (loss)	14,705	(5,723)
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(101)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Belden stockholders	$ 14,806	$ (5,723)