A belt (16) is disclosed having a base fabric (34) which has been impregnated by or immersed into a polymer material (36) so that it has a smooth inner surface (16'). The belt (16) is used to form an extended press nip (10) for dewatering a paper web (24). The press nip (10) is formed by forcing a stationary shoe (14) against the inner surface of the belt (16). The belt (16) is preferably made by mounting a base fabric (34) on the inner mandrel (40) of a cylindrical mold (38) and injecting an appropriate material in the mold. After the material is properly dispersed through the base fabric, it is cured.
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