Author: Victor

I'm just your average guy with an appreciation for above average goods. My goal is to introduce you to products that will see you through thick and thin, and then some.
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Hidesign Hector Large 17″ Laptop Compatible Leather Backpack Review – $299.99

BestLeather had an absolutely fantastic, successful trip to Las Vegas in February for Fashion Week. Running around meeting new leather artisans and companies, making connections with popular brands, and taking the time to discuss leather with a few companies was enough to make our week fantastic. Hidesign was one of the leather brands we actually had the chance to sit down with and talk. This leather company provides a refreshing fashionable line of leather bags and accessories to BestLeather’s typically rustic product reviews – Hidesign’s product line is very refined and stylish.

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About

“Founded in 1978, Hidesign has grown into a global leather accessories brand recognized for its quality, ecological values and personalized service. By keeping its focus on a classic contemporary look, Hidesign caters to the sophisticated urban professional and executive.” This stylish business values diversity, quality, and heritage. Each of these values is evident in their contemporary products. Head over to their website to read more about the brand, their product innovation, ecological mindset, and to check out some quality leather products.

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Construction

The Hector Leather Backpack is a quality piece. This stunning bag is constructed using Hidesign’s full-grain vegetable tanned classic leather, heavy-duty contrast stitching, and 100% cotton green striped lining. Each of these elements comes together in a beautiful, chic bag. The bag consists of one large main compartment, and a smaller, slip in pocket. The main compartment was designed large enough to fit a 17” laptop in the padded sleeve. In this main partition there is also one zip pocket for pens and pencils, and two slip in pockets for other accessories. The press button closure is easy to use, yet durable, and the metal closure square is heavy duty and attention-grabbing. The leather shoulder straps are padded perfectly, and the modern metal hardware gives the bag an extremely durable impression. This bag is built with exquisite detail and materials, and will last for a very long time.

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Function

Every man needs a good backpack. They are extremely practical, provide adequate storage, and give you the option of carry additional bags. My go-to travel set-up is a backpack, messenger or duffel, and my beautiful self. This backpack has performed exceedingly well in every situation I have put it through, whether that was going to college classes, a coffee at a local café, or travelling to various places. Measuring 11.2” by 14.4” by 5.5,” the Hector backpack is spacious. Each time I used this bag, I would take my MacBook Air with leather sleeve, charging cable, notebook, textbooks, The Pienza Penholder, a headphone case, and other assorted daily use items. I have even used this bag to pack my Olympus camera and a few lenses, all while functioning perfectly as a multi-use bag.

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Aesthetic

The Hector backpack is gorgeous. Its elegant construction, handsome materials, and graceful feel make this backpack perfect for the modern gentlemen who appreciates purpose. The contrast stitching gives the bag an inviting look. The leather is tanned perfectly to a deep brown, and the inner green lining gives the bag just the right amount of individuality. This bag was not designed to get thrown around and abused, although it will withstand it. Like all quality leather items, attentive care and responsibility are key to this bags long-lasting lifetime. Like most of the leather items I have reviewed, I always receive compliments on this bag. It only makes sense for a backpack like this to receive praise, so people stopping and inquiring about the bag is always a good sign that my impressions are accurate.

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Conclusion

Hidesign is a company that appreciates modern design, practicality, and quality. The Hector Large 17″ Laptop Compatible Leather Backpack is a great example of Hidesign’s core values. You may be surprised at Hidesign’s relatively low price-points, but they absolutely do not sacrifice quality to achieve this. With a new men’s line for this spring, any of Hidesign’s products will make excellent Father’s day presents. But if you are looking for a bag that will really make an impression, the Hector backpack is the perfect bag for you. Priced at $299.99, it also won’t hurt your budget. Head over to the Hidesign America website to check out their excellent product offerings and pick up a quality Father’s day present this week.

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Wilsons Leather Black Rivet Distressed Leather Duffel Review – $350

You travel the world, making your mark wherever you go. You look good. Is that enough, or do you want to look damn good? As I wrapped my hands around the handle of the Wilson Black Rivet Distressed Leather Duffel, I had answered my own question. The genuine leather exterior with contrast stitching, accented by distressed metal hardware had me looking for an excuse to plan my next overnight business trip.

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About Wilsons Leather

Wilsons Leather came about in 1986 as the merger of Berman’s Buckskin, founded in 1899 when fringed buckskin shirts and jackets were de rigueur, and Wilsons House of Suede and Leather, made famous in the 1940s for its suede and leather apparel. The Melville Corporation merged the two companies into Wilson’s Leather in 1986. Today, after a series of acquisitions and brand name changes, Wilsons Leather products can still be found online and in its outlet stores across the United States.

Construction

The Wilsons Leather Black Rivet Distressed Leather Duffel is crafted with cow leather weighing a mere 1 pound, 11 ounces and uses a semi-chrome tanning process, giving the leather a soft, supple feel. The dark brown leather is complemented by contrast stitching and antiqued brass hardware on the padded leather handles and removable nylon carrying strap.

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Turn the bag over, and you’ll encounter the same antiqued brass on the protective metal feet riveted to the structured base. At 21” W x 11” H x 10” D, there is plenty of space for two to three days of travel in this carry-on bag. It is just under the FAA guidelines of being less than 45 inches in total dimensions for carry-ons, so its sizing is perfect.

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The interior is constructed of a black rip-stop nylon featuring a zip-across pocket and organizer panel with a cell phone holder and four slots for bank cards. The cell phone sleeve held my wife’s Galaxy S3 phone, but will not fit phones much larger. The zip-across pocket neatly holds any extras you’ll need for a two or three-day trip.

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Function and Aesthetic

The Black Rivet Distressed Leather Duffel is sans doubt your go bag. If you need more space than this bag provides, it means you’ll be checking a bag at the airport. Sling the bag over your shoulder, and you won’t get uncomfortable with the leather-padded carrying strap. The two leather carrying handles are well-stitched, and afford another way to carry the bag. The hardware is heavy duty, so you won’t have to worry about the bag coming apart. The darker brown leather goes well paired with most any color, and stands outs by its looks alone.

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I didn’t use the cell phone pouch or credit card pouch much, as I keep those items in my wallet or in my pocket. They might have been better replaced by another zippered pouch, but you may still find them useful when you’re in a hurry.

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Conclusion

Distressed leather is very popular for a reason – it is beautiful when crafted well. The Black Rivet Distressed Leather Duffel exemplifies this beauty in its masculine appeal. Unsolicited compliments are common when I’m carrying this bag to and from my downtown office. It retails for $350 and is worth every penny, but you won’t be paying that much for it. It is $169.99 through Wilson’s Leather online, and if you happen to live close to a Wilson’s Leather Outlet store, you may find it for even more of a steal than that.

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Filson Father’s Day Gift Guide 2015

Father’s Day is fast approaching, and here at BestLeather.org, we know that quality leather goods are a perfect gift for any occasion. We’ve been checking out a few Father’s Day gift guides this year, and Filson, an outdoor outfitter in Seattle, Washington, has put together a few great suggestions. Established in 1897, Filson is a leading outfitter and manufacturer of goods for outdoor enthusiasts. With its corporate and manufacturing facilities headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Filson is known for making reliable and authentic products. Filson values constructing durable apparel and accessories that withstand generations of use.  Whether Dad is a rugged outdoorsman, a weekend warrior or businessman, Filson can make sure he’s got the right gear. Gifts range from $85 – $700.

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Here’s a few of their go-to gifts for Dad:

• Double Prong Belt, handmade at Filson’s Seattle manufacturing facility. The belt is premium, durable Bridle Leather. It has an added D-ring, to attach lanyards, flashlights, carabiners, whatever your outdoorsman needs. $80

Double-Prong Belt
• Medium Leather Pouch, handmade in Seattle and made to last for years. The medium sized pouch holds wallets, keys, and cell phones. The pouch is a secure way to organize Dad’s small devices. $100

 

Medium Leather Pouch

• Filson’s Original Briefcase, reliable and rugged. This briefcase has dividers for a laptop, accessory organization and all of Dad’s paperwork. $265

Filson Original Briefcase
• A Journeyman GMT Watch. The watch is assembled by hand in Shinola’s state of the art Detroit factory. The three-hand GMT watch is built to withstand the demands of the field. $700

The Journeyman GMT Watch

Of course there are many classic Filson gifts for Dad as well, among them: the Cruiser Jacket, the heritage sportsman bag, a padded computer bag, a leather outfitter wallet and a flask.

And to make it even more special for dad, Filson offers same-day monogramming on leather goods in its Seattle, New York and Minneapolis stores. Monogramming on Father’s Day leather gifts is also available online, at www.filson.com, starting on June 1st.

Find more gifts for Dad here: http://www.filson.com/giftsFIL-NE505A-005

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Moore & Giles Father’s Day Gift Guide

Moore & Giles, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a supplier of fine leather and fine leather goods. In honor of Father’s Day, they’ve put together a Father’s Day Gift Guide showcasing a few of their gorgeous pieces built for dads. We picked out a few of our favorites below, but be sure to check out their full Father’s Day Collection here.

Canady Haversack in Titan Milled Brown – $850

Review coming soon!

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Antique Douglas Belt – $135

Antique Douglas Belt Moore and Giles

Benedict Weekend Bag in Brompton Brown – $860

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Donald Dopp Kitt in Brompton Brown – $195.00

Donald Dopp Moore and Giles

 

 

 

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Maxwell Scott Bags “The Pienza” Review – $59

Every person who has ever had a bag without a penholder knows the pains that come with its absence. I have gone through numerous penholders in my 20 years of life, and I don’t think I have ever been as excited about a penholder until I received the Maxwell Scott Pienza. The practicality, quality leather, and deep black color were enough to make me want to buy some pens and pencils worthy of occupying its sleeve.

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About

“Family owned and run, Maxwell Scott Bags is founded on a shared love of Italy, a passion for design, and a firm belief in the importance of excellent customer service.” Currently based out of North England, Maxwell Scott Bags was founded in 2002 with one goal: to become the most loved British bag company in the world. With a company revamp in 2013, the founders began a new vision. “The new brand identity comes from a blend of elements considered sacred to the company founders: craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a passion for creating individual style.” Be sure to read up about the company and its history, as well as keeping up with the Maxwell Scott Journal.

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Construction

The Pienza is constructed using full-grain, black Italian leather. The inside is a durable, wipe-clean lining, which allows for smooth pen and pencil removal. The beautiful black leather is stitched with same color, heavy duty thread, giving the penholder a luxuriously sturdy feel. In the hand, the Pienza feels expertly constucted. It is sturdy, yet flexible. Durable, yet supple. The leather flap is easily opened and closed and provides adequate space for longer writing tools. At 2.1 inches wide, .7 inches deep, and 6 inches long, there is plenty of space for 3 to 4 pens and pencils. This penholder is gorgeously durable, which is important if you will be using it often like I have.

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Function and Aesthetic

Penholders have one function: to hold pens and pencils. Everyone who has asked and criticized me on why I have a luxury leather penholder to hold a few pens quickly changed their mind after touching, using, and admiring The Pienza. Because of its small size, the penholder is easily pocketed or thrown in to a messenger bag. I used my penholder to store a metal mechanical pencil, a pen/stylus hybrid, and a highlighter. I have used The Pienza for several weeks now and nothing has turned me off from this piece. The rich, elegant, black leather, sturdy construction, and supple touch seamlessly come together to form a perfect accessory to any leather connoisseur with other leather pieces.

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Conclusion

I can honestly say I was hesitant at the idea of using such a nice penholder. Before I had Maxwell Scott Bags The Pienza, I would keep my pens and pencils thrown together in a random pocket or used a cheap nylon zipper bag penholder. Now, I’m unusually conscious and dismayed by those who throw their writing tools in a pocket as I once did. When I show them The Pienza penholder, they always appear confused, wondering how something so small and elegant could have such an impact on daily life. If you are tired of bag disorganization and inefficiency, I highly recommend buying a penholder. Maxwell Scott Bags has developed a splendidly ideal penholder standard. The $59 price tag is absolutely worth converting to this luxurious pen holding lifestyle.

Please be sure to visit Maxwell Scott Bags’ website and view all of their beautiful leather products: http://www.maxwellscottbags.com/

 

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US Wings Kangaroo Leather Bomber Jacket Modern A-2 Review – $889.00

In our last review from US Wings, we took a look at their iconic Indy Style Adventurer Jacket and were introduced to US Wings quality selection of leatherwear. We enjoyed that jacket so much and were delighted when asked to review the US Wings Kangaroo Leather Bomber Jacket Modern A-2. This is our first review of a product entirely composed of Kangaroo leather!

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CONSTRUCTION

The A2 Bomber jacket has quite a storied past and is almost instantly recognizable. Standardized by the US Army Air Corps in 1931, the A-2 saw most of it’s service in WW2 to provide protection from the elements for pilots in open cockpit planes. US Wings modern version retains the same classic styling elements but with a few slight modifications such as seal brown coloring and a slightly looser fit. The A-2 features 2 front cargo pockets with side entry handwarmers and an inside chest pocket for adequate storage options. The collar has snap downs that keep it in place and the brass YKK zipper is very solid and smooth. A windflap runs along zipper length and a hook and eye closure secures the collar at the top. Stitched down epaulets adorn the shoulders.

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The kangaroo leather used is actually regulated and certified by the Australian government. And if that doesn’t impress you, studies conducted by the Australian Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organization, state that Kangaroo Leather is lighter and stronger than cowhide or goatskin. It’s pretty much the titanium of leathers. The supplier of this particular leather is Packer Leather of Queensland Australia which has been around since 1881. The leather is incredibly lightweight. For reference the Indy Jacket weighs about 4.5 pounds and is cowhide, the A2 in Kangaroo weighs 3.3 pounds.

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FUNCTION

The A-2 is an excellent get up and go jacket. The super supple Kangaroo leather forms very well to my frame. The fit is true to size and my normal size large fit accurately. The ventilation grommets on the underarm are a very welcome feature and with the lighter leather, make this a great warm weather option. The ribbed cuffs and waist keep out air and offer a snug fit but sometimes the waist seems to ride up under the jacket when walking, a minor inconvenience if anything. My only real issue is the hook and eye closure. It’s a little difficult to get in place and I think a concealed button would work better.

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The A-2 was meant to shield pilots from the elements in planes, and this bomber excels at that. It was a blustery day in the mid 50s when I took these photos and the wind didn’t bother me at all. The versatility of the leather is quite impressive. I live in Marin County and the climate can change drastically just over a short distance. At the base of the Golden Gate it was cool and windy, but 15 minutes north on 101 and the temperature jumped to the low 70s. In any other leather jacket I’d be tempted to drop by a 7-Eleven, grab a pina colada Slurpee and pour it down my shirt, but the A-2 still felt alright. This is a great riding jacket and I appreciate how it handles weather changes.

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AESTHETIC

The bomber jacket in general is a quintessential piece of manliness. Take the US WIngs A-2 with one of the finest leathers available and you’re just not playing fair.  This jacket just exudes cool. It goes well with just about anything, you could probably wear jorts and still get away with it. You really can’t go wrong with classic looks, it’s timeless and never goes out of style.

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CONCLUSION

The US Wings Kangaroo Leather Bomber Jacket Modern A-2 is quite possibly one of the finest leather bombers available on the market. Made in the USA with premium Australian Kangaroo leather, this jacket will serve you, as well as your kids and perhaps their kids too. At $889 dollars it’s quite expensive (US Wings offers this model in many other affordable options) but will last a lifetime.

 

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Amos Brand Oscar Travel Bag Review – $495

I absolutely love traveling. There’s nothing better than packing up the car and getting out of town for a while. But traveling is even more fun when you have fancy accessories. Today we’ll be looking at my most recent fancy accessory – Amos Brand’s Oscar Travel Bag.

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ABOUT AMOS BRAND

Amos is a new brand launched in March 2014 by Kyle Bardouche out of Colorado. Kyle’s goal was to make simple yet sophisticated items for men, and now has an extensive product line of bags, belts, wallets, and more. Amos (usually spelled Amōs if you want to get fancy with the Unicode) means “to carry” in ancient Hebrew. Their website boasts: “Amōs is for the modern nomad, adventurers, influencers, the style conscious, rookie travelers to seasoned travelers, and for those who appreciate a unique yet simple, clean design.”

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CONSTRUCTION

Amos uses a beautiful combination of Merino wool felt and veg-tanned leather to construct the Oscar Travel Bag. The majority of the bag is made of soft wool, but the pieces that receive a lot of stress are constructed of leather. The zipper is edged with leather, and the corners are reinforced with leather as well. Inside, the bag is lined with wool and has a small zippered pouch as well as two elastic and leather slip pockets for small items. The rest of the bag is open to pack with whatever you’d like.

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The removable strap is double-sided and comes with a shoulder pad for comfort. The strap is anchored into the wool with D-rings and leather loops. There’s an external zippered pouch for quick access.

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A unique feature of this bag are the buckles on either end of the zipper. These can be unbuckled to make the bag larger if you need more packing space. Then you can buckle it right back up to keep the stylish shape of the bag.

FUNCTION

At first, I was worried that this bag was going to fall apart or that the straps were going to pop right out of the felt. However, I think I underestimated the strength of merino wool felt, because I use this bag all the time and have never felt like I have to treat it any more delicately than a normal duffel bag. The corners are reinforced with leather. The wool is waterproof and surprisingly strong.

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At 20″ x 10″ x 10″, this bag is plenty large for a long weekend trip. It has no trouble fitting in the overhead compartment on an airplane, and isn’t too awkward or bulky to carry around. The shoulder strap isn’t extraordinarily comfortable, but the two handles are large enough to hold on your forearm to relieve some of the weight.

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CONCLUSION

The Oscar Travel Bag is absolutely beautiful. I can’t take it anywhere without people stopping me and asking about it. The merino wool felt is a very unique look for a weekender bag, and is surprisingly durable. I look forward to taking this bag on many, many more trips. At $495, this bag is worth it for the simple and sophisticated look. However, it’s on sale on their website for only $295, which is an amazing deal for such a high quality bag with unique design. Go check it out! They also have a matching backpack and dopp kit made of the same materials.