Range Leather Debuts Travellr Bag and Razor Case

Range Leather, based in Spokane, WA, has announced its third Kickstarter campaign. This time around they are offering a dopp kit, a standard razor cover, and a safety razor cover. The standard razor cover fits nearly all brands of men’s and women’s standard disposable razors. The dopp kit, dubbed the Travellr, is 9.5″ x 6″ x 2.5″, making it a useful size for a travel dopp kit or makeup bag. The dopp kit and razor cases come in all brown, or a black and brown combo.

“Travellr’s story began while traveling, when I reached into my bag and sliced open my finger on the exposed blade of my razor. As a craftsman and leather worker, I responded by designing a razor case and travel bag so this would never happen again. Travellr is built in the US from full grain Horween leather called Buccaneer. This specific tannage has a water resistant finish and is the perfect material for the Travellr Kit. We craft each case by hand and assemble with copper rivets, premium brass hardware, genuine YKK zippers and durable thread. We are so confident in the construction of this bag- we are guaranteeing it for life.”

Although the Kickstarter was funded in less than two hours, you can still pick up a great dopp kit and razor case for 25-33% off retail price. We’ve been very impressed with some of Range Leather’s other products, like the Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case, Range Mug, and Gannet Wallet. Check out the Kickstarter here!

March 31, 2016December 19, 2017

Anchor Leather Co. Custom Cast Bottle Opener Review – $20

Well, as the saying goes, ‘It’s 5 o’clock somewhere’ and this solid brass and leather bottle opener form Anchor Leather Co. is the perfect tool to use anytime of day and at any occasion.

The minimal design with signature engravings makes it an heirloom piece for sure. The design and engravings make a perfect gift or token for an avid rock climber and/or beer drinker.

Ethan Martin, the lad behind AnchorLeatherCo, hand makes all of his unique and customizable leather goods on his Etsy shop. From wallets to cases, accessories and even bags, Ethan has the eye for quality and detailed design.

Each product from Anchor Leather Co is made by hand in the USA, outside Charlotte, in the great state of North Carolina. The inspiration for Anchor Leather Co came from many childhood hours spent watching artisans craft objects by hand at Colonial Williamsburg, a historical park in the state of Virginia.

Construction

The materials selected were chosen for longevity. Silicon bronze was custom cast for the opener itself, and Horween Dublin leather is the strap material. The length of the opener, leather and all, is about 4 inches long.

Design

The 5O’clock Rescue8″ design was inspired by a piece of equipment used by high angle rescue teams and rock climbers, known as a figure eight descender, also called a spurless rescue eight. The real thing is used in rappelling to ease the lowering process into a manageable rope force. This version is used to ease into the end of the day or weekend by opening your favorite drink, so the concept and name was very fitting.

While this version of the figure eight descender is not made for rock climbing, it performs its other duty – bottle opening – like a charm. I can keep it on my keys or on a peg in my kitchen and it looks great even while it’s not in use.

Conclusion

The desire with this piece was to offer an affordable and long-wearing opener that would be a nod to the Anchor Leather Co. brand’s ‘get you there’ mentality. The 5 O’Clock Rescue8 will be your companion through many, many six-packs, and the price is right at $19.98. It has a clean design that was achieved with made in the USA components and craftsmanship. Cheers to that! Check it out on their Etsy store..

March 30, 2016November 27, 2021

Pad and Quill Roll Top Leather Backpack Review – $319

Who else remembers having a Jansport backpack or LL Bean backpack with their initials on it? That seemed to be the thing in high school, right? Well, now that I’m all grown up, I’m looking for something with a little more class and style — not to mention a slimmer and more chic design, so it doesn’t look like I’m carrying half of my body weight in it.

Well I’m happy to say that I found just that in the Roll Top Leather Backpack from Pad & Quill. It’s handsome yet rugged, minimal yet practical, and really will get the heads to turn (almost like in high school with those Grateful Dead bears or smiley face patches).

ABOUT PAD & QUILL

Kari and Brian, founders of Pad & Quill, are out to make their mark on the world of eCommerce. Instead of outsourcing their products to the lowest bidder, they have a strict code that they want all of their products to adhere to, which you can read about here. They have a 25-year warranty on their bags, showing their commitment to longevity. From their website:

“We think there are folks out there who have the same sense of awe as we do when they behold a beautiful thing. Who marvel at how a handful of seeds can become a majestic stand of Baltic Birch, that are then transformed, in artisan hands, into a gorgeous, organic product. There are friends who share our sense of adventure and love to have a bag they pull from their closet with 15 years of travel written upon it, and miles to go. Pad and Quill products will never resemble a trinket pulled from a fast food bag.”

Construction

The backpack is made from full-grain tumbled American bridle leather, hand-pounded copper rivets, parachute grade nylon stitching, sturdy zippers and solid nickel hardware. A small pocket on the exterior is about 5 x 7 inches and secures with single leather strap and nickel eye. The interior has a large open pocket that can hold up to a 15 inch laptop. There is also a smaller zippered compartment.

On one side of the backpack is a zippered access to the main bucket of the bag,

Their shoulder straps that are adjustable but not removable, along with a leather handle on top of the bag,

The dimensions of the bag are 12 inches wide x 16 inches length x 4.7 inches deep when closed, 25 inches long when unrolled. The bag weighs about 3 pounds empty.

Function

As a medium sized bag, this bag is ideal for a day trip and possibly a minimal weekend. Although deep, The width and depth of the bag restrict it from holding a ton of gear which, in my opinion, is not a bad thing. Simple yet elegantly designed bags are sometimes meant to carry simple and minimal things.

The shoulder adjustable shoulder straps are ideal for shorter and taller people. I am 6 feet tall and my girlfriend is 5 feet tall and the design and look work great for both of us. Of course, Veronica will always say it works better for her!

Aesthetic

The quality of this bag is top of the line and very durable. Out of the box, the tumbled leather has a nice broken-in and subtle flexibility to it which is nice since full grain leather takes serious time to break in! Again, the size is great for weekend/overnight travel and the bare necessities.

Being a tall guy, at first I thought the bag to look a little too small for my frame and suiting more to a shorter man or woman. However, I reminded myself that this bag is not a big, burly hiking or work bag but more of an everyday essentials bag. It fits 15″ laptops comfortably and can carry around work or school materials with ease.

One thing I disliked was the the body of the bag being a tad bit narrow and long, making it difficult to take things in and out. Although the side zipper is extremely helpful and aesthetically pleasing, it could be a hair longer to easier remove larger books or articles. But this is the only thing I would change and like anything, I will adapt to this over time where I will adjust to the bag rather than the other way around.

Conclusion

The Pad & Quill Roll Top Leather Backpack is an ideal companion for many occasions, including walks around the city, walks around the park, overnight trips or even as an everyday carry bag. I honestly can’t wait to see how this bad boy ages and wears in! At the price of a little bit above $300 I feel you are getting a good value for a handmade piece of such craftsmanship, design and detail.

Larger or taller men should definitely consider the size and use for this bag as it does not lend to hauling a large cargo. But, in my case, it’s a great thing to downsize the amount of stuff I take with me on a given excursion. In addition, the minimal size and classic color will lend great to any attire, casual or business. Check it out here.

March 25, 2016June 1, 2022

A Comprehensive List of American-Made Footwear

There are many reasons to buy American-made – from creating jobs to reducing your carbon footprint to enjoying safer, higher-quality products. We’ve compiled a list of footwear brands that are manufactured right here in the US of A. Several of the companies below do not manufacture their entire product lines in the U.S., but we’ve linked to their American-made lines.

Alden – Men’s dress and casual shoes made in Middleborough, Massachusetts.

Allen Edmonds – Men’s dress and casual shoes made in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

Anbu Safety – one professional leather safety shoes manufacturer and supplier, mainly produce leather work shoes and work boots.

Aurora Shoe Company – Men’s and women’s casual shoes made in Aurora, New York.

Bates Footwear – Men’s and women’s military and uniform shoes and boots. Select styles made in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Beck – Men’s and women’s cowboy and work boots. Made in Amarillo, Texas.

Belleville Boot – Men’s and women’s military and law enforcement boots and shoes. Made in Arkansas.

Broken Homme – Men’s casual boots and shoes, made in Los Angeles, California.

Brooklyn Boot Company – Men’s casual boots and shoes, made in Martinsburg, Pennsylvania.

Chippewa – Men’s and women’s casual and work boots, made in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.

Cobra Rock – Men’s and women’s casual boots, made in Marfa, Texas.

Cord Boots & Shoes – Men’s and women’s shoes and boots made in Atlanta, Georgia.

Cordoba – Men’s and women’s sandals handmade in Lebanon, Ohio.

Crary Shoes – Men’s and women’s boots and shoes, custom made in Portland. Oregon.

Danner – Men’s and women’s work and outdoor boots, made in Portland, Oregon.

Double H Boots – Men’s and women’s western boots. Select styles made in Martinsburg, PA.

Eastland – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoe, made in Freeport, Maine.

Frye – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoes, made in Marlboro, Massachusetts.

G.H. Bass – Men’s and women’s casual and dress shoes, made in Wilton, Maine.

Helm – Men’s and women’s casual boots, made in Maine and Arkansas.

Johansen – Men’s and women’s casual and dress shoes made in Gretna, Virginia.

Johnston & Murphy – Men’s and women’s dress and casual shoes. Select models made in Nashville, Tennessee.

Justin Boots – Men’s and women’s western boots. Select styles made in Spanish Fort, Texas.

Julian Boots – Men’s casual boots, made in Los Angeles, California.

Keen – Men’s and women’s work, casual, and outdoor shoes. Select styles made in Portland, Oregon.

LL Bean – Men’s and women’s casual and outdoor boots and shoes. Select boot models made in Freeport, Maine.

Luchesse – Men’s and women’s western boots, made in El Paso, Texas.

Hoffman’s – Men’s work boots made in Kellogg, Idaho.

Mara and Mine – Men’s and women’s casual shoes, made in California.

Munro – Women’s casual shoes and sandals made in Clarksville, Arkansas.

New England Outerwear Company – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoes made in Rockport, Massachusetts.

Nicks Boots – Men’s work and casual boots manufactured and custom made in Spokane, Washington.

Oakstreet Bootmakers – Men’s casual boots and shoes made in Chicago, Illinois.

Onex Shoes – Women’s casual shoes made in Southern California.

PS Kaufman – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoes, made in Los Angeles, California.

Ranch Road – Men’s and women’s western and casual boots. Select styles made in Texas.

Rancourt & Co. – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoes made in Lewiston, Maine.

Red Wing – Men’s work and casual boots and shoes, made in Red Wing, Minnesota.

Rider Boots – Men’s casual and dress shoes and boots, made in Richmond, Virginia.

Rios of Mercedes – Western boots made in Mercedes, Texas.

Russell Moccasin – Men’s casual and outdoor boots and shoes, made in Berlin, Wisconsin.

San Antonio Shoes – Men’s and women’s work and casual shoes made in San Antonio, Texas.

Sbicca – Women’s casual boots and shoes, made in Los Angeles, California.

Schnee’s – Men’s outdoor boots made in Bozeman, Montana.

Sofft – Women’s casual boots and shoes, made in Pennsylvania.

The Brothers Crisp – Men’s casual boots and shoes, made in Hartford, Connecticut.

Thorogood – Also known as Weinbrenner Shoe Company. Men’s work and casual boots. Made in Merill, Wisconsin

Tony Lama – Men’s and women’s western boots. Select styles made in Texas.

Truman Boot Co. – Men’s casual boots made in Northeast Pennsylvania.

Walkover – Men’s and women’s casual boots and shoes, made in Pennsylvania.

Wesco – Men’s and women’s work and casual boots, manufactured and custom made in Scappoose, Oregon.

White’s Boots – Men’s work and casual boots, made in Spokane, Washington.

Wolverine – Men’s and women’s work and casual boots, made in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Yuketen – Men’s dress and casual boots and shoes. Select styles made in Los Angeles, California.

Zuriick – Men’s casual boots made in Spokane, Washington.

*Did we miss someone? Please contact us or leave a comment below and let us know.

March 22, 2016December 19, 2017

Deceptively Simple Minimal Thin Leather Wallets – $45 & $50

Living a simple life is a hard thing to accomplish these days. Our world is always running at a million miles an hour, and all we can do is try and keep up. I like to slow down and simplify my life as often as I can. Whether that is taking the long way home on my motorcycle and kicking my phone to the curb (not literally, of course!), or slimming down my ever-growing personal property, it is a goal I strive for often these days. I have found that carrying the bare necessities with me at all times helps me fulfill my simpler lifestyle, and the Deceptively Simple Minimal Wallet has been a great product to get the job done.

About

Deceptively Simple, an Etsy store based in Los Angeles, California, lives up to its name in every way. With only one wallet (in two sizes) in its product line, this one-man operation strives to do things simply and efficiently. Each wallet is handmade in Los Angeles, California.

“I’m an architectural designer in Los Angeles who also enjoys designing products. My goal is to create items with clean lines, orthogonal shapes and simplicity. As I’ve learned through years of architectural work, simple things are always harder to achieve. I’m always trying new designs and will be adding more pieces soon.”

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION

The wallets are hand-stitched using vegetable-tanned harness leather in a natural color. This leather is very sturdy and stiff, so it requires a bit of time to soften and gain a patina. As always, natural veg-tanned leather picks up a nice patina around the edges. The edges are already quite dark from the laser-cutting, but with use, the wallet becomes more uniform color.

Both wallets are 100mm x75mm or 3 7/8″ X 2 7/8″, just slightly larger than a credit card. The wallet comes in two sizes: thin and thick. The thin wallet is 5mm (3/16″) and the thick wallet is 7.5mm (9/32″). The thin wallet holds three credit cards without bowing, and the thick wallet holds about five cards without bowing. Both wallets could feasibly fit double the amount, but the wallet would look distorted and the leather would need some extra time to form around the cards.

Many super-thin wallets make it hard to slide the cards in and out, especially at first, when the leather is still quite stiff. However, the Deceptively Simple wallets have small laser-cut windows on both sides that help you grip the cards with your thumbs, making them easy to access.

After several months of use, the wallets have held up very well and gained a very nice patina. The stitching is still perfect and the leather has molded to the cards and holds them snugly. I have been able to comfortably hold 7 or 8 cards in the thicker wallet without any issue.

Here is the thick wallet after about three months of use. It’s softened considerably and is developing a nice patina.

AESTHETIC

The Deceptively Simple Wallets are pretty unique in appearance. With dark, squared edges and contrasting stitching, these wallets stand out without looking the least bit gaudy. The thick laser edges may not be for everyone, but I’m personally a fan of the way the blocky edges look, and they’ve held up well after months of wear.

The company’s logo is placed near the bottom corner, two dots in a thin rectangle. This adds even more geometric interest to the wallet. The clean lines, natural colors, and functional shape make for a solid wallet from this small operation.

CONCLUSION

The word minimalist is thrown around pretty loosely these days, but these wallets truly earn the term. If you often carry more than five cards, or like a more traditional looking wallet, this may not be for you. But if you like to carry just a few cards, even on occasion, these wallets function perfectly. They also function well as sleek business card holders that are sure to impress. So set aside that giant clunker of a wallet you have and opt for something simpler. The Deceptively Simple Minimalist Wallet is a well-priced option as a leather wallet.

UPDATE: Viro is now taking orders for the wallet to be crafted in Horween’s CHROMEXCEL for an additional $15. This sounds like a great option and should produce a very, very nice version of this wallet!

March 17, 2016December 19, 2017

First Impressions: Jaunji Designs Uptown Jacket in Lambskin

Jaunji Designs has announced a new line of men’s and women’s jackets made with lamb, goat, or natural grain cow leather via a new Kickstarter campaign, which we reported on a few weeks ago. They quickly met and exceeded their goal, but jackets are still available for preorder. We were able to get our hands on a sample jacket in the Uptown style, a high collared jacket with a classic fit.

The Uptown jacket has snap cuffs, two zip chest pockets, two side pockets, and two interior pockets, one of which is zippered. This jacket is made with lambskin in a light cognac color with a subtle distressed finish. It also features a herringbone lining which is soft to the touch, but durable.

For men, the jackets come in four styles: Moto, Cafe Racer, Bomber, and Uptown, a simple high-collared design. Ladies’ jackets also come in two styles: Uptown, and a moto style with an asymmetrical zip.

The construction of the Uptown jacket is solid. Seams are even and the hardware appears to be well made too. The leather is soft to the touch and has a pleasant aroma to it. Lambskin is not super thick, but still retains great strength and durability.

What’s especially nice about the Jaunji Uptown jacket is the weight. It’s a great option for spring, early fall and those days when the weather just calls for a lighter weight jacket. The lack of bulk is definitely noticeable and appreciated. The cognac color is aesthetically pleasing and along with the style of the jacket lends itself well to business casual attire or simple casual daily wear.

The jackets come lined with standard viscose lining, but can be upgraded to a herringbone wool.The herringbone lining gives the jacket a bit more of an upscale look – this is just our opinion especially since we haven’t seen the standard version in person.

The cool thing about these jackets is that they are custom-fit, to measurements you send in upon purchase. So there’s not a back stock of pre-made jackets, they are made specific to your measurements and leather choice.

Verdict

Overall, our test jacket has been well received in public. People enjoy the feel of the leather and comment positively on the style and color. We can easily see why Jaunji met their original Kickstarter goal in less than 8 hours. There are still spots available on their Kickstarter to get the jacket style of your choice with standard lining and choice of color for $369, which is about $200 off expected retail price. Couples can pledge $669 for two jackets of their choice. This is a good deal for a high quality, custom-fit jacket made to your specifications. We look forward to seeing how things progress for Jaunji with this project and designs that are launched from them in the future.

March 16, 2016June 24, 2020

Election 2016: Who Gets the Next Presidential Johnston & Murphy Shoes?

If you are familiar with footwear brand Johnston & Murphy, you probably know that the brand has been responsible for providing footwear to every president since Millard Fillmore in 1850. Most recently, they provided President Obama with a pair of black oxfords and an updated version of President Lincoln’s lace-up boots.

Now, with election season in full swing, we’re asking the important questions: who gets the next pair of presidential Johnston & Murphy shoes? There’s a chance America may have its first woman president. This video from CNN Money discusses this possibility with J&M’s CEO Jon Caplan, and explains a bit about Johnston & Murphy’s presidential tradition. Check out J&M’s history page to see some more presidential styles throughout history.

March 15, 2016December 19, 2017

Measuring the Thickness of Leather

In our reviews, we often talk about the thickness of leather. The thickness of a piece of leather affects its durability and flexibility, meaning it’s important for the informed consumer to have a general idea of leather thickness is and what types of products each range is used for. There are several ways to measure the thickness of leather, which we will explain below.

The Ounce
We most frequently refer to the thickness of leather in terms of “ounces.” This can be confusing because the term actually refers to a linear measurement as opposed to weight. In the leather industry, an ounce is 1/64 of an inch. So, if you have a piece of leather that is 8 ounces, it’s 8/64 of an inch. An easy reference point is to remember that a U.S. quarter is 4 ounces in thickness.

Hides can be through a splitting machine that can skive a piece of leather down to the desired measurement. But each animal is different and a hide can vary in thickness, so most of the time you’ll see each measurement presented as a range, such as 6-7 oz. The image below, from the Tandy Leather Buying Guide, shows a conversion chart between ounces, irons, inches, and millimeters, as well as a visual representation of the measurement.

The Iron
The Iron is an old, but still occasionally used standard for measuring the thickness of leather. It is most often seen in shoe manufacturing, especially in the UK, although the millimeter is a much more common measurement now. There are 48 irons in an inch, so each iron is a little larger than an ounce.

What are different thicknesses used for?

Shoes
An average leather outsole on a shoe is around 12oz (9 irons) thick. A leather insole is typically around 14oz in thickness to accommodate the welt. A shoe upper is around 5oz on a typical dress/business shoe, and the lining is about 1oz.

Of course, these thicknesses often vary with the type of shoe, type of welt, and type of leather used. Italian dress shoes are usually sleeker and thus use thinner leather in the soles and uppers. Blake stitched or bonded soles don’t require a thick insole like Goodyear welted shoes.

Bags
Bags are generally crafted from medium weight leather, and can be anywhere from 3-7 ounces, depending the desired weight and durability. Many bags are lined with pigskin or another thin layer of leather, which usually measures in at around 2 ounces.

Belts
The standard weight for a sturdy men’s belt is 7-8 ounces.

Wallets and Accessories
Most wallets, notebook covers, and billfolds are made with leather that is 2-4 oz. Heavy accessories like knife sheaths, hard sided cases, and holsters are in the 7-9 oz range.

March 9, 2016December 19, 2017

Paul Evans Caine Bit Loafer Review – $349

We all know that shoes don’t make the man…but they certainly make the man feel more suave, debonair, and stylish that’s for sure! But, when searching for a pair of shoes to wear to the office or those more upscale events, the choices are vast. Classic dress shoes rarely go out of style. So when you’re ready to purchase, do so wisely as a well-informed consumer. We encourage you to read about Leather Shoe Construction and Leather Types Used in Shoe Construction – we hope you’ll find those informative and helpful articles as you begin your decision on which brand and style of dress shoes to purchase. And, speaking of brands, we hold Paul Evans in high regard, so let’s take a look at their Caine Bit Loafer.

ABOUT

Paul Evans is a small operation based in New York City, where the shoes are designed. Each pair of Paul Evans shoes is manufactured in a family-owned factory in Naples, Italy. They’re e-commerce only, meaning there are no middleman markups.

“When we set out on this venture, we knew we wanted quality, but we weren’t interested in creating a pair of thousand dollar shoes. We never understood why beautiful, timeless shoes were still monopolized by the traditional brands while other parts of the fashion world were being disrupted by the powers of technology.”

In January of 2014 we featured a guest post from Paul Evans entitled, “Why My Leather Shoes Are Made in Italy”, which is a great piece on (you guessed it) why Paul Evans’ shoes are made in Italy.

CONSTRUCTION

Each pair of Paul Evans shoes is made of Italian calfskin leather. The upper is made entirely of full grain Italian leather, in a beautiful black with a classy sheen. The soles are also leather, handpainted black to match the uppers. The inside is lined with soft, light brown leather that adds comfort as well a smart contrasting look.

The sole is Blake-stitched, which means the upper is wrapped around the insole and attached between it and the outsole. This gives the shoe a bit more flexibility, as well as a sleeker sole, and the ability to be re-soled in the future. The Caine is expertly constructed, with its subtle curves and perfect stitching.

AESTHETIC

The Caine Bit Loafers have a dressy loafer shape to them, with a bold horsebit crosspiece further embellished with a signature Paul Evans fleur-de-lis. With a high-polish leather, a pronounced heel (about 3/4 inch), and bold hardware, these shoes definitely stand out. The impression from my office mates has been extremely positive with lots of questions about them and positive comments about the color and overall style. They are not as modern of a style as most of Paul Evans’ line, but is still a versatile shoe with broad appeal.

The vamp is of medium depth, so the shoe can be worn with or without socks. The shoe definitely has Italian influences to it with the horsebit hardware and a somewhat elongated and elevated toe. The Caine comes in three colors: black, oxblood, and marronne (a medium brown). The black is of course the dressiest of the three.

FIT

Paul Evans warns that that their shoes run a full size and a half large, and they aren’t kidding. Be sure to order smaller than you’re used to. Paul Evans’ customer service has been very helpful in our experience, so don’t feel worried or afraid to ask questions. Once you’ve determined the correct size, ordered and received them, it’s time to get them on your feet. Holding a quality dress shoe in your hands is great…but walking in them is just awesome and such is the case with the Caine Bit Loafers. They break in quickly and all day comfort isn’t really considered – it just happens. The Cain Bit Loafers are a versatile style that can be worn in colder weather and then easily worn sock-less on warmer spring and summer days.

THE VERDICT

So far I’ve been very happy with the Paul Evans Caine Bit Loafer. They are definitely a shoe that I’ll wear for many years to come. Dress shoes can be ridiculously expensive, but these come in at $349. Yes, that’s still a decent sum of money. But, you are getting an Italian made shoe with high quality components, and when taken care of properly will last most of your working career. That makes them a great deal. The Paul Evans business model has so far been very impressive (direct to consumer with no middle man); their shoes’ quality and design could easily pass for brands twice the price. You can even save $25 when you join their newsletter or create a member account. So, go get ya some!

March 8, 2016December 19, 2017

Range Leather Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case Review – $145

I have recently taken up the hobby of smoking tobacco pipes. A good friend of mine introduced me to this classy and timeless pastime, and I instantly fell in love. But being the leather-loving guy that I am, I knew that if I was going to invest in smoking tobacco, I needed to have an equally classy and refined leather case to store my smoking essentials. Today I am reviewing the Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case from our friends at Range Leather.

About

Range Leather is small operation out of Spokane, Washington, focusing on accessory goods like valet trays, wallets, bracelets, and more, as well as taking custom orders. We have reviewed two other pieces from Range Leather in the past: the Gannet Wallet and the Range Mug. BestLeather writer and fellow Washingtonian Jerry Higbee spent some time interviewing Kyle Koster, the founder of Range Leather, and I highly recommend spending the time reading through and listening to his series, A Range of Possibilities.

Construction

The Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case is constructed by hand using Horween English Tan Dublin Leather and .035” waxed polycord from Maine Thread Company. This particular leather is very oily, so it marks and scuffs easily. The case when closed is 7 inches long by 4 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick. When the case is unrolled and open, it measures 12 inches by 7 inches.

The leather is extremely durable, but allows just enough stretch room to snugly fit your pipe smoking necessities. The closing strap has two positions to allow more room for two smaller pipes or one larger and more accessories. I have been using the Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case for a few months now, and I have yet to find any defect in the construction.

Function

As I have grown into an avid pipe tobacco smoker, I have found the Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case to be an excellent addition to my smoking accessories. I store my Rigoletto pipe, a few pipe cleaners, a Zippo lighter, a pipe cleaning tool, and two 1oz bags of tobacco blends. I am not sure I would be able to fit two pipes in the pouch, but this isn’t a problem for me because I have only one primary smoking pipe. I have been thoroughly impressed with how the Sanford case has performed so far, and I look forward to using it for many years as I grow into a smoking connoisseur.

Aesthetic

Like most products made from Horween Leather, this piece is beautiful. The oily leather is marked and stretched easily to create an attractive patina. The leather goes very well with all types of pipes, and matches the classy aesthetic of a typical tobacco smoker perfectly. On the Range Leather website, the current photos of the pipe case are from the previous version. Kyle is currently waiting on updated product photos, so use the photos in my review to look over the case. The Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case will only get better with age, and it certainly will last longer than my lungs.

Verdict

I believe that the $145 price tag on the Sanford Pipe Tobacco Case is a fair and demonstrated price. If you are looking for a classy leather case to conveniently keep your entire assortment of tobacco pipe smoking accessories in, this hand-made, high-quality product from Range Leather is a highly recommended option.

March 4, 2016April 25, 2024

74Street Bags Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness Review – $269

One of my favorite things about working with the leather industry is that I get to see firsthand how different companies create and design products with a similar function. Leather photography accessories have been a staple of any young or seasoned photographer for a while now, and 74Street Bags has contributed to the offering with an excellent piece, the Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness.

About

Mircea & Daciana Bule are the powerhouse couple behind 74Street Bags. Mircea is a licensed fashion designer and he has been handcrafting with leather for more than 20 years. He is referred to as the brain of design and handwork and Daciana, a manager by profession and a fashion design student, is “the brains of the business along with being Mircea’s apprentice in learning more and more everyday about the vast skills needed for handcrafting leather.” This Romanian duo designs and creates some unique bags – which seem to be very popular through their Etsy storefront, which shows a 5 star rating and healthy sales. This second time around we are reviewing the Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness from 74Street Bags.

Construction

The Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness is hand constructed with full grain leather and metal pins and D-rings. The leather has been sourced with imperfections and marks that make each piece unique. This specific leather has a nice matte finish that looks good with anything, but also provides plenty of support for two heavy cameras.

The entire harness is hand-stitched by the couple, and after long inspections I could not find any crooked, missed, or compromised stitches. It is obvious that 74Street Bags takes much time and care in each product construction. The harness is also built using two pieces of leather, stitched together to make an even stronger, more dependable accessory for your expensive photography gear. Overall the harness’ construction is top-quality, and I would expect nothing less because it carries around thousands of dollars worth of cameras.

Function

74Street Bags has done a good job at combining style, quality, and function in one leather product. The harness is extremely easy to use, as you just swing it on, attach your photoshoot camera, and begin your shoot. This specific harness was designed for carrying two cameras, one on each side of the body. The metal pins are easy to adjust for body size, and the metal sliders flow freely on the leather shoulder straps. This makes for a smooth and efficient shooting motion that every photographer can appreciate. While the camera clip on system also functions well and will continue to do so for a while. Don’t let the thinness of the small clips make you nervous. Daciana has assured me that the clips are designed to support more than 80kg (176+ lbs)…which is way beyond the normal load that any photographer will connect to these straps.

Aesthetic

74Street Bags creates products that appeal to people on several different levels. The attractive, easily scuffed leather and metal hardware combine to make a piece that will not only be a solid addition to your photo accessories, but also a conversation piece when worn. The patina has already started to change a little, and it will definitely get better with age. Many people have flocked to the 74Street Bags’ Etsy store because their products have a story, are extremely well built, and guaranteed to last a lifetime, and it is easy to understand why after using the Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness.

Verdict

I have thoroughly enjoyed using the Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness from 74Street Bags. The harness will make an excellent addition to any photographer’s collection and will work well for many years to come. Priced at $269.00, the harness is an investment that I believe photographers should make.

March 4, 2016December 19, 2017

Jaunji Debuts Leather Jackets On Kickstarter

Jaunji Goods has announced a new line of men’s and women’s jackets made with lamb, goat, or natural grain cow leather via a new Kickstarter campaign. For men, the jackets come in four styles: Moto, Cafe Racer, Bomber, and Uptown, a simple high-collared design. Ladies’ jackets also come in two styles: Uptown, and a moto style with an asymmetrical zip. The jackets come lined with standard viscose lining, but can be upgraded to a herringbone wool.

You can get a jacket with standard lining and your choice of color for $339, which is about $200 off expected retail price. Couples can pledge $669 for jackets of their choice. Jaunji has already more than met their Kickstarter goal, but this gives buyers a chance to add a nice quality leather jacket to their wardrobe for less. Keep an eye out in the next week or so for a review of the men’s Uptown Jacket!

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March 1, 2016December 19, 2017

Made in Wisconsin: See How Thorogood Boots are Made

The Weinbrenner Shoe Company (known primarily as Thorogood Brand) has been making footwear in Wisconsin since 1892 and in this factory since the 1930s. Their local ABC affiliate recently featured them in their “Made in Wisconsin” special report series, giving us a peek into the inner workings of an all-American shoe factory. You can see employees inspecting the American-sourced leather, cutting the hides, assembling the uppers, attaching the soles, and getting each pair ready to ship out.

WAOW – Special Report: Made in Wisconsin

About Weinbrenner Shoe Company

Iconic American success stories are awesome and the story of Albert Weinbrenner, son of a German immigrant and cobbler, holds true to form. Albert began his apprenticeship at age 13 working for his father. By his early 20s, in his spare time, Albert was designing work boots specifically for the trade jobs his friends had around Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1892, at the age of 27, Albert started his own cobbler business with partner Joseph Pfeifer.

Weinbrenner and Pfeifer enjoyed immediate success – becoming well known for their “jobber” boot. Today Weinbrenner Shoe Company is still based in Wisconsin and employs over three hundred people in the local area.

In addition to making sturdy workwear, their 1892 Wisconsin line is beloved in mens casual footwear. We’ve reviewed the Portage CXL Roofers and the Dodgevilles, and found them to be extremely well-made with an American heritage flair.

February 24, 2016December 19, 2017

Best of Las Vegas Trade Shows 2016 – Fall Preview

Spring fashion weeks around the world are coming to an end, solidifying trends for the upcoming season, and delighting buyers and bloggers alike. A team from Best Leather visited several fashion trade shows in Las Vegas, including MAGIC, Liberty Fairs, Capsule, and MRKT, which featured everything from household global names to small handmade items to up-and-coming clothing labels. We wanted to share some of our favorite new looks from fall 2016 lines. Keep an eye out for these items and trends once fall comes around.

Alpha Industries – The military outerwear company will be debuting the new Phantom jacket, in both black and white leather. It’s a lighter jacket with great features like an arm pocket and knit cuffs.

Hammitt – LA-based Hammitt has some fun designs coming for fall. Look out for their shiny new printed leather, called Curacao, on crossbodies, handbags, wallets, and more. Hammitt showcases their ingenuity with a new line of handbags featuring removable front panels that act as both a clutch and a fun addition of texture.

Mario Latorre – Ever-stylish Mario Latorre will be debuting some new briefcase designs, a deep crossbody tote, and their first women’s wallet. They also feature a gorgeous red ethically-sourced alligator duffle. Check out our recent review of their Voltaire Litigation Briefcase, which will be coming out in matte black.

Steve Madden Mens – Mixed media and contrasting textures were a common theme throughout many different lines, but Steve Madden’s fall line showcased some, which included some wedge heels and lots of brogue toes.

Thorogood – We were privileged to have a preview of Thorogood’s beautiful 1892 Wisconsin collection, of which we’ve reviewed the Dodgeville and the Portage CXL Roofer. Keep an eye out for more cushioned outsole styles as well as a gorgeous green boot in both men’s and women’s(!).

Timberland – Timberland will be debuting a limited run line of their iconic 6-inch boots in jewel-toned suede for fall. Featuring translucent tread and hairy suede, these fun boots are sure to be a hit. Also keep an eye out for several boots from their premium Timberland Boot Company line, featuring Horween leather and lineman toe details made with motorcycle riders in mind.

Gordon Rush – California-based Gordon Rush has several smart new designs coming out for fall, including slim chukkas, brogue dress shoes, and sleek Chelsea boots.

Dr. Martens – British footwear giant Dr. Martens showcased lots of suede designs, including some Blue Suede Shoes. Look out for lots of suede, fun prints on the 1460s, and some lighter footwear options for people who aren’t ready to commit to hefty Air Wair soles.

W Durable Goods – We forgot to shoot some pictures, but we loved some innovative products from W Durable Goods out of Fort Worth Texas. They repurpose vintage materials like Kevlar fire suits and canvas transport bags, as well as large and small bags made from new materials.

Fjallraven – The Swedish outfitter’s iconic Kanken backpack is getting a sleek new makeover with all-black leather and G1000 material. An eco-friendly version of the Kanken will also be available this year, as well as additions to their line of sustainable, ethical down jackets.

February 23, 2016December 19, 2017

Adam O Leathers Launches Kickstarter for Line of Bridle Leather Bags

Adam O Leathers has announced a new line of items made from famous Wickett and Craig bridle leather on Kickstarter. The line includes a briefcase, two messenger bags, leather coasters, and personalized keychains. In the past, the company has offered professional knife rolls as well as a line of Horween messenger bags.

Bag Features:

Made with thick English Bridle Leather from Wickett and Craig (6.5oz)
Marine grade polyester thread (UV resistant)
Heavy duty hardware
Hammered industrial copper rivets
Lifetime warranty

About Adam O Leathers

“I’ve always being fascinated by the way handmade leather products are created – how this ancient craft has lasted for centuries while still bringing some of the most exclusive products to the market. Several years ago, I decided to learn the art of handmade leather craft and now I pass this passion into every product made at Adam O. Leathers. Our attention to detail, combined with some of the best leather available in the world, is at the core of our business.” – Adam O.

Kickstarter

The bags are currently available on Kickstarter for 25% off or more. Each bag can be stamped with your initials and comes with a lifetime warranty. $225 gets you a leather briefcase while $275 gets you a messenger bag with a single or double strap. Keep an eye out for a review of the Adam O Professional Briefcase, coming in the next few weeks!

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February 15, 2016December 19, 2017

All About Saddle Stitching

We love to talk about the superiority of hand-stitched leather products, but why exactly is this the case? Often times, machines can run circles around humans when it comes to speed and precision. But with many aspects of leather crafting, this just isn’t the case.

Machine Stitching

When a sewing machine is used to stitch two pieces of leather together, that line of stitching uses two separate pieces of thread that twist around each other in what is known as a “locking stitch.” If any piece of the thread snaps on a locked stitch, the entire thread can unravel, ruining the seam and compromising the strength of the product.

Saddle Stitching

A hand-sewn saddle-stitched line uses a single thread with needles on each end. The thread is pulled back and forth on either side of the leather in what is called a “running stitch.” This gives the seam extra strength and longevity. Often, the two pieces of leather are placed together then grooved or punched through in order to keep the stitch aligned and embedded in the leather for more durability.

Check out the video below for a visual example of saddle stitching.

If the thread breaks on a saddle-stitched piece, the thread won’t unravel because the other side holds the seam together. This technique has been around for centuries, and takes a lot of time and practice to perfect. The saddle-stitch is most commonly used on edges and can only be done by hand due to the complex nature of the stitch. Yet another reason it makes sense to pay a premium for hand-crafted products made by artisans who care deeply about their work.

February 11, 2016December 19, 2017

Byline Supply Co Tyler Field Notes Wallet – $95

The Field Notes brand of notebooks debuted in 2007, and since then have become a staple in many people’s everyday carry gear thanks to their small, convenient size. Of course, these stylish notebooks are ripe for the invention of many different kinds of holders, folders, and wallets to keep them safe. One such option is the simple and attractive Tyler Field Notes Wallet from Byline Supply Co, based in Portland, OR.

ABOUT BYLINE SUPPLY CO.

Austin Boyd founded Byline Supply Co for well-made American heritage goods was born from a leather belt his grandfather made years ago. He appreciated the quality of the same experience to people today. These goods told the story of the owner, even after they had passed. This ideal is what Austin and his team strive for, making sure each piece is handcrafted entirely from USA-sourced materials. From their website: “We exist to help you live your legacy, and give you a piece of true American heritage.”

CONSTRUCTION

The Tyler Field Notes Wallet is made with 3-4 oz Hermann Oak leather in a natural, undyed color. The edges are waxed and burnished, giving it a nice finished look. The 3-4 oz leather is a great choice – it gives the wallet a slim profile while staying nice and sturdy. The Hermann Oak leather softens and darkens with more use. It gradually becomes easier to open and lay flat but keeps its shape well.

FUNCTION & AESTHETIC

The Tyler Field Notes Wallet contains two inside pockets to carry a notebook or passport, along with two card slots. It has space to hold a Field Notes journal which measure 3-1/2” wide by 5-1/2” tall.

The wallet comes in three color options – tan, brown, and natural. The natural color will naturally darken around the edges and develop a nice patina with more use. Its shape and style is rustic yet modern – perfect for stylish people who want to stay organized without being flashy.

CONCLUSION

The Tyler Field Notes Wallet is a nice little accessory to have around, especially if you want to get in the habit of writing things down more often. It’s slim and easy to carry, and can be used as a wallet or card holder for further consolidating your every day carry belongings. This is a high quality, American-made piece that will keep your notes and doodles safe for years to come. The Tyler Wallet is currently on sale for only $47.50 (usually $95), which is an incredible deal. Snatch one up while you can (and maybe grab some extras as gifts)!

February 10, 2016December 19, 2017

Mario Latorre Black Voltaire Litigation Briefcase Review- $755

With the 2016 trade shows coming up, we thought it fitting to review a leather product from a company we discovered this time last year. We’ve been impressed with the level of quality maintained by this company. This time around I am reviewing the Black Voltaire Litigation Briefcase, and I must say, this briefcase is truly a stunner.

About

Mario Latorre was founded by Daniel and Paola Garrido and is currently based out of Biloxi, Mississippi. They strive to combine functionality and luxury in their leather products, which are hand-made by artisans in South America. Over this past year we have reviewed the Bottini Briefcase and Baroni Rustico Messenger Bag, and both products exude quality and embody the Mario Latorre values.

Construction

The Litigation is constructed using premium black Italian leather and Italian hardware. The black leather is extremely soft and plush. It feels like there is a thin padded lining stitched in between the leather, and this gives the bag a very soft and lavish feel. The hardware is equally impressive. The laser engraved Swiss lock is the centerpiece of this briefcase and each one comes with a key to lock away important documents. On top, the handle provides a generous amount of support and strength.

Standing at 11” high by 16” long and 5” wide, the Voltaire Litigation Briefcase is a substantial bag. My overall impression of this briefcase’s construction is very positive: the premium leather, attractive lock and handle, and solid feel really come together in a beautifully made briefcase.

Function

The Black Voltaire Litigation Briefcase is designed with the modern businessman in mind. The 5 expandable organization pockets provide ample room for my MacBook Air, journal, several document folders, college papers, and more. I store my MacBook in the rear pocket because it feels more balanced compared to the others. The front compartment is dedicated to the miscellaneous EDC items such as my cell phone, business cards, pens, headphones and more.

My favorite feature on the Litigation Briefcase is the detachable shoulder strap. While some may think the strap is a little too thin, keep in mind this briefcase was designed as a true briefcase and to be held in hand. There is nothing like walking in to a meeting with your briefcase firmly in hand and getting down to business.

Aesthetic

The natural texture of the leather will only improve with time. The leather has a natural sheen that catches the attention of people everywhere I go. The Voltaire Litigation briefcase comes in three leather options – black, matte black, and brown. Its bright red interior gives it a memorable sense of personality and contrasts brightly against the dark leather and hardware. The briefcase has a simple and classic Italian look that makes me feel luxurious when holding it, and will never go out of style.

Conclusion

The Black Voltaire Litigation Briefcase makes a statement everywhere I go. This briefcase makes me wish I had more exciting meetings to attend than coffee shop dates or business classes. I look forward to using it many years in the future, when I do have more important meetings to go to. When I need to make an impression, this bag will be my bag of choice.

February 3, 2016December 19, 2017

CRAFT & LORE ENFOLD WALLET REVIEW – $65.00

OK, so you need a wallet. You’ve went on Amazon and saw a lot of space age, high tech, RFID blocking, butt massaging wallets. They caught the eye but seemed gimmicky. Next, you went on Pinterest and found no less than 57 lovely candidates for back pocket carry, but that became wearisome really quickly. Finally you hit up BestLeather and are so burnt out you just want something that’s simple, looks good and performs. Enter Craft & Lore’s Enfold Wallet.

CONSTRUCTION

The Enfold is born in Northern Idaho from 3 pieces of Horween Dublin leather. Everything is held together using the highly effective hand saddle stitch. The stitching is very tight and shows zero looseness. The diagram below, taken from the Craft & Lore website, illustrates this nicely.

The leather is a 4 oz so the thickness is about 1/16th of an inch. The dimensions are 4.25″ x 3″ x .75 when reasonably stocked with your cards, cash and obsolete Blockbuster Video rental card. On my scale the weight is 50 grams when empty.

FUNCTION

The name of the game here is simplicity. With three compartments the Enfold makes organizing pretty straightforward. The open slot on the back is best for the cards you use most. I reserve it for my Driver’s License and credit card. The inner front pocket is my overflow parking for loyalty cards and pictures of my calico kitten, Muzzles. The cash pocket can accommodate a fair number of bills but, albeit folded. I’m not really a fan of folding cash as it is harder to sort and slower to retrieve as compared to a billfold. But it’s also a lot slimmer and more compact than a billfold so you have to decide which is more important to you. Thanks to the slim profile, I can front pocket carry the Enfold and even fit it in the chest pocket of my flannels.

AESTHETIC

The Enfold is a simple, good looking wallet. It’s not over the top and it’s not sloppy. The clean, uncluttered design under promises and over delivers. As with any quality leather piece, your days of hard use will pay off with a gracefully aging accessory.

CONCLUSION

The Enfold is a solid, no frills wallet. While it doesn’t really stand out from the pack of high quality hand made wallets we usually review, it does maintain the standard we’ve come to appreciate. If you’re looking for the latest, trendiest designer wallet then looks elsewhere. If you just need a faithful companion to hold your cash and cards, the Craft & Lore Enfold is a viable option.

February 2, 2016December 19, 2017

Wool & Oak Announce Duffle Suitcase Kickstarter

Wool & Oak is a new brand specializing in leather functional goods. They recently announced a Kickstarter for their new travel duffle bag that features an organized packing system. The Duffle Suitcase is designed like a classic weekender bag on the outside and built like a compartmentalized suitcase in the inside.

ABOUT WOOL & OAK

“The brand’s design philosophy is about the marriage of classic design aesthetic with functionality needed in today’s modern world. With minimal branding, Wool & Oak aims to give the customer a sense of ownership of the brand,thus empowering them to mold each piece to their own personal style.”

THE DUFFEL SUITCASE

The Duffel Suitcase measures 20″ x 10.5″ x 10″ and meets all of the TSA’s airline security requirements. It comes with. It consists of 3 compartments separated by 2 removable walls acting as partitions. The Duffle Suitcase has over 19 features including: 2 built in shoe bags, a tie pocket on the floorboard, dedicated pockets for a laptop, tablet, 2 books, a belt & 2 chargers.

The bag is made with full grain leather and comes in three colors – oak, navy, and black. There is also a canvas version offered. Wool & Oak offers a detachable leather toiletry bag that can snap on and off the side. The Duffel Suitcase is expected to retail for $550, but you if you get in early, you can get one for just $250. The Kickstarter is funded but there are still units left, so check it out if you’re looking for a good deal.