Saddleback Leather Front Pocket ID Wallet Review – $33

You can tell a lot about a man by his wallet. A wallet bulging with loyalty cards, coupons, and a small photo album might signify the sentimental, family guy. A small, sparse bifold might represent the stoic loner. But one thing we all have in common is we usually tend to use a wallet until it falls apart and simply go buy a cheap department store replacement. Tired of the endless cycle I went on a quest to find the last wallet I would ever need and found just that with the Saddleback Leather Front Pocket ID Wallet in Tobacco.

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CONSTRUCTION

The Saddleback Leather Front Pocket ID Wallet is made in Mexico of full grain chrome tanned leather. While I usually prefer vegetable tanning because of its earthier tones and environmentally friendly processes, I think the chrome method suits the wallet more as it makes the leather more pliable and stain resistant, both of which are important for an item I use on a daily basis. Polyester thread is used to to keep everything together, and it is double stitched over high stress areas. There is also a pigskin lining on the interior which makes sliding money in and out easier.

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FUNCTION

This is where the wallet really comes into its own. It’s there when you need it, and seems to disappear when not in use. At 4” wide and 2.75” tall it’s very discreet yet has the capacity to hold up to 12 cards. The ID window is not only useful for storing your ID, but gym cards, security access cards or any card where you’ll need to expose to a barcode scanner frequently. 2 slots on the sides can hold up to 3 cards each without being too difficult to remove. There is also one slot behind the ID window for additional storage. The wallet can easily slip into your front pocket and even a chest pocket when not in use. The only issue is getting money in and out is a chore. You have to really pinch to access bills and often have to remove the whole wad of cash and wait for any change so you can put it back uniformly. However, since most of my transactions involve credit cards or apps like Google Wallet, I don’t find myself needing paper money as often.

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AESTHETIC

The look of the wallet in general is understated quality. It likely won’t garner any ooohhs or ahhhs when you pick up the tab though. I chose the Chestnut color but carbon, dark coffee brown, and tobacco are also available. The simple, sleek design is efficient and classy. It’s the type of wallet I’d imagine the owner of a ‘69 Porsche 911S using.

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CONCLUSION

Overall this wallet is great for the minimalist looking to simplify their everyday carry. The beauty of this wallet is that it forces you to carry exactly what you need and nothing more. So if you’re ready to drop your George Costanza wallet and go for something more streamlined, the Saddleback Leather Front Pocket ID Wallet is worth your consideration.

January 23, 2015December 19, 2017

SNPR Leather Works Custom Watch Strap Review – $170

I recently acquired a Hamilton Field Khaki watch that came with a stainless steel bracelet. It was nice, but much too formal and I was in the market for something more casual while still maintaining the classic appeal of the time piece. That is how I found and purchased a SNPR Leather Works Custom Watch Strap.

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ABOUT SNPR LEATHER WORKS

SNPR Leather Works has been around since 2011 and operates out of New Jersey by the owner, designer, and maker, Joe D’Agostino. In addition to watch straps, SNPR offers wallets, keychains, belts, and even shirts. All the leather goods are handmade by D’Agostino. I’ve had the chance to correspond with Joe via email several times during the course of my order and I can say that his customer service is great and response times to inquiries are fast.

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CONSTRUCTION

The strap received was the Horween Chestnut Dublin. As the name implies it is a chestnut color which displays beautiful contrasts and exhibits some natural scarring for added character. The vegetable tanned leather is beefy, measuring in around 4.5-5mm in thickness. Nylon bonded thread is used on the strap. Stitching is very clean and tight, no loose ends in sight. Arbor pressed holes for the threading and notches are smooth. Edges are natural cut which leaves the full grain exposed for a rugged allure. The buckle is brushed stainless steel. The floating keeper is cut from the same hide to ensure proper color matching. Overall presentation of the strap is nearly flawless but with enough coarseness to give evidence to its handmade fabrication.

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FUNCTION

Upon first use you can’t help but notice the stiff, stubborn nature of the strap. This is perfectly normal of new leather and will become more pliable with use. I have a 7” wrist and found myself switching between the third and fourth notches, one being too tight and the other too loose. However the leather will stretch with wear and I suspect the tighter fit will eventually become comfortable. When on the wrist the fit is comfortable but noticeable. This is an inherent trade off with thicker straps, but not enough to forgo their use. The large buckle can sometimes be felt on the tendons of the inner forearm when performing wrist movements but a looser fitting will correct this. I like my watches snugly fitted with little play on the wrists so an occasional pinch from the buckle is expected. Once on and about my daily business the strap performs admirably. The large 44mm Hamilton feels secure and looks confident.

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AESTHETIC

The size of the strap will overpower smaller watches but I feel it will compliment any large faced timepiece. I found myself checking the time more often than necessary just to admire the quality and visual appeal. Even my wife who wouldn’t notice me wearing a Patek Philippe remarked on how good the watch looked and that speaks volumes. It’s rugged and yet subtle, imagine Tom Selleck chopping wood in a wool blazer. The waxed pull up (a term referring to the lines in the leather caused from pulling and stretching) leather will only get better with age and I anticipate a beautiful patina in a short while.

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CONCLUSION

The $170 price might not be for everyone but you certainly get what you pay for in quality and looks. With a huge variety of leathers and thread colors offered you’re sure to find something to your liking. These straps will last you for years to come, and only look better with age. So if you’re in the market be sure to consider a SNPR Leather Works Custom Watch Strap.

January 22, 2015May 9, 2020

Saddleback Leather Hobo Mini Crossbody Purse – $159

In a world of big bags, big sunglasses, and oversized sweaters, sometimes a tiny bag is refreshing. At 8″ x 7.5″ x 3″, the Saddleback Leather Mini Hobo Crossbody Purse is definitely tiny. It’s a miniature version of their Hobo Crossbody Purse, a bag that I also happen to own in the Carbon color. I have been a big fan of that bag over the ten-ish months that I’ve owned it, so I was excited to check out Saddleback’s smaller version when they sent it in for review last month.

THE LEATHER

Made of full-grain leather and double-stitched with polyester cord, this bag is not going to fall apart any time this decade, or probably this century. The dark coffee brown leather is lined on the inside with light pigskin, which is easy to clean. The leather itself has a lovely matte, dark brown color and is nice and stiff, which is better for such a small bag so that the sides don’t fall in on themselves. The Hobo Mini Crossbody Purse comes in four colors: tobacco, dark coffee brown, chestnut, and carbon. My dark coffee brown bag is a very versatile and rich color.

CONSTRUCTION

Three rivets fasten the top half of the latch to the body of the bag, which is a hefty nickel-plated lobster claw clasp. The adjustable strap is held on by D-rings and lobster claw clasps on either side. There is a slim pocket on the back which spans the width of the bag. There’s another similar pocket on the inside, for quick access to your cell phone or cards.

The leather is extremely strong and sturdy, as are the seams. There have been a few flyaway threads, which is not uncommon with Saddleback Leather products. The company recently posted a video of a fun way of getting rid of pesky threads, which you can view here on their Vine account.

FUNCTION

The Hobo Mini Crossbody Purse is the perfect size for all your essentials, and you can dress it up or keep it casual. It only weighs a pound, and it’s nice to take on a night out when you don’t need anything more than your phone, keys, and cards. The strap is nice and long, and it’s adjustable, which is nice if you’re on the taller side. You can wear this over the shoulder or crossbody, and adjust the strap to your liking. You could even detach the strap altogether if you wanted to use it as a clutch.

Now, while I think this purse is very cute and well-built, I have a bit of a beef with the functionality. The gigantic clasp is total overkill. On the original, bigger version of the Hobo Crossbody Purse, the clasp is cumbersome, but still openable with one hand due to more surface area. This miniature one is virtually impossible to open one-handed, and even with two hands, it’s not fast or easy. Which is fine if you don’t really plan on taking your stuff out or are worried about pickpockets. You can slide your phone in the back pocket if you need to access it in a pinch. So, if you plan on purchasing this bag, just think about whether or not quick, one-handed access to the main pouch is important to you.

CONCLUSION

The Saddleback Leather Mini Hobo Crossbody Purse is adorable, and very sturdily crafted from high-quality leather. Its simple and straightforward design won’t go out of style and will last you a lifetime. If you don’t mind fiddling around a bit with a clasp, then this is a great, handcrafted purse, at the fair price of $159.

January 21, 2015December 19, 2017

Rustic Leather Medium Briefcase Review – $349

When I went looking for a briefcase a few years ago, I had a few criteria. First, it had to be quality leather. When I first started looking I didn’t know very much about leather, but I did know I didn’t want something that would feel flimsy and cheap. Second, it had to be within my price range. That is, my combined Christmas money from that year! Third, it had to fit a 13″ MacBook—since that’s the size I have tended to gravitate toward in my last few computer purchases. Fourth, it had to be able to convert to a backpack, if needed.

I scoured dozens of websites looking for just the right bag. Some were too expensive for my budget. Others felt too cheap. Some were the wrong dimensions or size. Many of them had some of the qualities, but not all.

Then I found Rustic Leather. Their Medium Briefcase in “rich chocolate” color fit exactly what I was looking for. And two years later, it’s still serving me well. Rustic Leather’s products are made right here in the good ol’ US of A. Texas, to be more precise. Being American-made wasn’t on my list of top four must-haves, but that’s certainly a plus.

Function

I mainly use the briefcase for—you guessed it—carrying books and papers back and forth from work. Its depth is just right: 6 inches (minus an inch because of double-stitching)—meaning I can carry my MacBook alongside a thick book several hundred pages in length. And there is still room in the front where the interior pockets and pen loops are for another book or two, if you choose.

Since two shoulder pad sleeves are included, and I only use one for my shoulder, I just scrunch the extra strap up inside the one I’m not using at the bottom. I removed the two front straps, since rarely do I need to strap extra items to the front. But if you like the look and/or functionality, they won’t add much weight to your shoulder. Speaking of weight, at 4 lbs, 11 oz, it’s just the right weight.

Construction

The leather itself is 100% full grain 4-5 ounce boot leather. After 2 years of using it nearly every day, I still love its rustic (no pun intended) look. The lining is suede and still feels as soft as when it first arrived in the mail. I have experienced some threads coming loose along where the shoulder strap rubs against the bag’s flap, but that’s nothing a seamstress can’t fix. The shoulder strap is quite long, perhaps helpful for a taller person.

Conclusion

Not only do I get compliments nearly every time I take it into public, I find it infinitely valuable to my day’s work (and play). My Rustic Leather Medium Briefcase is both beautiful and useful. And, at $349 it’s a fairly viable purchase – especially considering it’s made in the USA and is a durable choice that will look great for many years to come.

~ Dustin Battles, Guest Contributor

January 19, 2015December 19, 2017

Holdster Model 01: Cross Stitch Review – $33.99

Ford had the Model T, Atari had the 2600, and Holdster has the Model 01. The brainchild of Marsh Gooding, whose main goal in life is to win the Arctic Man Classic, Holdster grew out of the idea for the perfect koozie for a Ball or Mason jar to hold his coffee from the neighborhood bakery. One thing led to another, and now everyone can reap the rewards of a man chasing his dream (albeit his secondary dream).

CONSTRUCTION

The Holdster Model 01 is a single piece of thick full-grain vegetable-tanned leather from Hermann Oak or Chahin Tannery designed to fit perfectly around a Mason jar. Sounds easy right? Well, Marsh taught me that Ball and Mason jars are not truly cylindrical. Instead, they are truncated cones so that the geometry of the leather cut has to be absolutely perfect to fit a jar snugly with no gaps. It took him over 40 iterations before making the final pattern that works. The leather is thin stitched together with heavy duty nylon 138 thread in a cross stitch pattern giving the koozie a smooth surface all the way around. The edges of the leather are then slicked with gum tragacanth. Finally the handle is another firm strip of leather curved and secured into place using hand-tapped copper rivets which are bombproof. That’s right. Bombproof. The brand logo is subtly debossed at the bottom of the koozie and is cleverly designed off of an old-school electric company. Everything is manufactured in Ohio and each Holdster is checked before they are shipped out to its next happy owner.

FUNCTION

The Holdster is actually two products in one. You get a koozie and a genuine 16oz. Ball Jar. Because of that, you know this is quality glass made for people who know their coffee, beer, tea, and whisky and aren’t afraid to drink out of a jar as long as they can drink. Heck, this Holdster can literally hold anything. Use it for Jello. Make a salad and bring it to work. Hang a few on your workbench to hold nails, nuts, or screws. Hang them in your kitchen to hold spices. Use it on your office desk for your pens and pencils. Grow a plant. If you grow tired of the koozie, take it off and use the jar!

The leather does provide a good amount of protection from both heat and cold – much better than the corrugated cardboard koozies at the coffee shop. To top it off, having a reusable cup is environmentally friendly! Just a precaution for hot drinks – although Ball jars are particularly heat-resistant, any extremely cold glass can potentially shatter if extremely hot water is suddenly introduced so make sure the jar is at least room temperature or warmer and your drink isn’t too hot before you just pour it in!

AESTHETIC

The Holdster will turn heads no matter where you go, just because it’s so unique and well made. Personally the cross stitch is my favorite design of the Holdster styles because it allows the koozie to sit flush on the jar. Maybe it’s because I operate on people all day, but I just like the look of the stitching, I can tell its some mighty fine work.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Holdster Model 01: Cross Stitch is $33.49 or $139.99 for a four-pack WITH coasters. For people who are always enjoying a nice drink, it’s well worth it. At the very least, it’s an awesome gift for a friend, groomsmen, or a loved one.

December 23, 2014December 19, 2017

Waxhaws iPhone 6 Wallet “The Classic” w/ Kickstand Review – $84

With the new iPhones’ recent release this year came, a whole new set of iPhone cases charged out from the gates. Many models appeared immediately, made of chemicals and plastics with difficult names such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). There are also many “leather” cases currently being sold for low-low prices. Although they are leather in appearance, many are simply plastic imitations.

The Waxhaws Leather Company once again delivers with a whole new line up of 100% full grain leather iPhone 6 cases using their classic English Bridle leather imported from Italy. Rather than jumping the gun and preemptively mass producing a line of products to be released along the new phone, owner John Fred continues to focus on quality and excellent customer service to provide a product which is both functional, beautiful, and most importantly, all leather. Today we take a look at “The Classic,” an iPhone 6 wallet built (and improved) from the design of Waxhaw’s iPhone 5 wallet.

CONSTRUCTION

“The Classic” uses the same Italian full grain vegetable-tanned leather described in our Waxhaws Leather Co. iPhone 5 Signature Design Wallet Review to create a combination iPhone 6 case and wallet. There are the same three card slots and a full-length compartment. Like the other Waxhaws design, the full-grain leather is designed to wrap around the entire wallet including the interior instead of using filler materials or cheap linings. As expected, the rubber casing holds the phone perfectly since time was taken to design this wallet with an actual iPhone 6. 3M adhesive is used to seal the casing to the wallet. On top of all this, John has a satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty for all his products and provides direct personal communication through e-mail.

FUNCTION

This case functions as both a wallet and a phone case. The phone is clearly protected on all sides by its rubber casing as well as the leather. The pockets are useful but it might not be a great idea to cram them full of cards – this will keep the cover from sitting flush with your phone and really, who wants to make phone calls while holding a stack of cards next to their ear? The rubber casing feels firm but with enough give for shock absorption. It fits perfectly with the phone and has cutouts for all the speakers, microphone, headphone jack, and camera. The side buttons are guarded nicely but still easily pressed. There is also enough cut away at the back so that the case does not interfere with photography.

The newest part of this case is the “kickstand” feature. This allows users to have their phone propped up in landscape mode for movies or video chats. This is definitely a great addition to the design. The phone sits up on its first try and does not slip or fall away.

AESTHETIC

Like the other Waxhaws product, this iPhone 6 wallet came in a nice gift box which really doesn’t need any additional giftwrap. The wallet is called “The Classic” for a reason – it is simplistic and compact. The leather comes with all the fine wrinkles and texture expected of true full-grain leather and the whiskey color will patina well with the oil from your hands. The stitching is whiskey color as well and is perfectly lined around the exterior. Like a fine luxury car, the inside is equally beautiful with a full display of Italian leather, even under the case. The leather is also available in black.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

Waxhaws Leather Co. iPhone 6 Wallet w/ Kickstand is sold on the Waxhaws, Amazon, and Etsy websites. Offered at a reasonable (and sometimes special sale) price with free two-day Amazon Prime shipping available, it has earned a 5/5 Amazon rating. The same design is also made for the iPhone 6 Plus.

December 19, 2014December 19, 2017

Everlane Suede Weekender Bag Review – $135

San Francisco is the place to be for any energetic start up looking to cash in on a fresh demographic. From app companies to new age sandwich shops, its sloped hills house thousands of young-blood ventures that desire to shake things up. Everlane was founded by some such folks, with the intent to cut out the middle-man in clothing manufacturing. Directly linking customers with information about which factories produce their goods and all of the costs associated, they make it possible to buy designer basics knowing exactly how much any item has been marked up. From knitwear to basic leather goods, Everlane represents an affordable alternative to normally expensive clothing or trappings. I got my hands on their Suede Weekender Bag, a $135 duffel meant for short excursions or weekends out.

FUNCTION

There are two small straps which allow the duffel to be carried like a tote. After just a short while though, carrying it like this is uncomfortable. Since there is no shoulder strap option, the only other methods of holding the bag are to sling it onto your back or carry it over your arm like a purse. Neither are highly suitable for long term movement. This is a bag that is meant to be taken from taxi to airport or car to home, not lugged around for extended periods of time; but the spacious design is suitable for short or long term use, since it’s essentially one open compartment with a small, zippered area sewn into the interior. This area and a pocket on the exterior make it possible to keep a few small items from being swallowed up in the bulk of the bag, without disrupting the appeal of the amorphous design. Since it is relatively formless, larger and more cumbersome objects can fit into this weekender than the traditional rucksack. As long as you pack with some level of organization, this is a convenient place to store a large amount of items.

CONSTRUCTION

The suede is nice enough to keep the bag both soft and sturdy, while retaining a sleek high-fashion appeal. It’s also noticeably soft to the touch, as is the interior canvas lining. The leather that comprises the straps, zipper pulls, and piping is thick and attractive. The portion of the zipper that is leather-lined is double stitched, along with a couple of the other leather details. This is a solid bag, but only in the context in which it is intended to be used. You might not bring this weekender with you on a trip out to the slopes; but it would be very well suited to being paired with…well, a suit. It would last much longer as a stylistic accoutrement than if much abuse were to distress the supple exterior. Given a tame environment and gentle owner, it could last a decade.

AESTHETIC

With a company focused on making designer goods available to the public straight from the factory, much of the appeal revolves around the elegance and simplicity of attractively designed products. This weekender is no exception to that rule. A hot ticket item in the designer market right now, this style of bag has a classic silhouette. This combined with the minimalist detailing and beautiful suede exterior of the offering give it a fantastic look. You could just as easily take it on a weekend trip to the coast as you could bring it to Milan during fashion week. That’s really the purpose of this bag; it’s high fashion made affordable.

CONCLUSION

Everlane makes it easy to find out how much it cost to produce your item, the markup, and what a traditional retailer might have sold it for. Listed directly under the product description and factory information is a chart showing the cost of materials, hardware, labor, duties, and transport associated with whatever item you are viewing. With a production cost of $82, the traditional retail value projected at $400, and the Everlane price rests satisfactorily on $135, this Suede Weekender is a good buy. That is to say, its a good for anyone who wants what they’re offering: a stylistically based design with good materials and great functionality. You might not be able to take this duffel into the forest on your dirt bike, but with the kind of looks it draws in the city, you may never want to.

December 16, 2014December 19, 2017

Ruitertassen Heritage Professor 13″ Laptop Satchel Review – $425

Ruitertassen is a company born from the fruits of Jacob de Ruiter, a Belgian craftsmen that started with nothing in 1925. His philosophy to craft durable and affordable bags for the hard worker together with his technical abilities brought him success in a period of worldwide economic crisis and war. Today, Ruitertassen bags are designed to be timeless in look and endurance. The company continues to respect Jacob’s heritage and philosophy by creating work bags worth every hard-earned penny. It’s latest venture is to open its online US store with offerings from its most popular and classic line in early 2015.

Each satchel comes with a leather keychain

CONSTRUCTION

All Ruitertassen bags are handcrafted from full grain leather with practicality and durability in mind. The leather is sourced from a Belgium tannery and is shared by another well known company, Louis Vuitton. This tannery is located a few kilometers from the workshop and is the original one used by Jacob de Ruiter eighty years ago. The satchel leather is 100% vegetable tanned with natural extracts in a process that lasts for four weeks before being oiled. All the classic satchel designs have hidden German tuck locks which make unlatching the front flap a cinch. Each tuck lock feels sturdy and deep enough to prevent the latch from accidentally opening. For the diehard classics fan, there is still the option of opening each buckle manually and using the buckle just as a way to modify the height of the main flap. For strength, Ruitertassen uses the strongest nylon threads and double stitched corners of the outer pockets. The entire back and front flap is made from a single piece of leather and held to the side panels with automotive grade rivets as is the handle. Inside the bag, the dividers are made with flat rigid Texon strengthened with a layer of nylon lining. All the labor necessary to construct these bags is done in the Ruitertassen workshop using high-precision mechanized tools in Germany to keep quality control high and prices low. Ruitertassen is confident in their attention to construction and durability and will take any bag back from an unsatisfied customer for. Any repairs necessary in the first two years are done complimentary in the workshop after which repairs are done at an affordable price. For customers based in the USA, they will employ local craftsmen for repairs to avoid the hassle of returning the bag internationally for repairs.

FUNCTION

There are three things you will notice about this bag. It is BIG. It is LIGHT. It is SPACIOUS. The bag is 12″ x 16″ x 6.” This is one of the smallest satchel designs but is still quite large on smaller framed individuals. One of the limiting factors for the size is that this is designed to hold 13’’ laptops. The showcase feature of this particular satchel is the padded laptop compartment which hugs my 13’’ Macbook Pro comfortably. The dividers stretch enough to add an additional laptop sleeve or case if desired. The satchel is also extremely lightweight at 4.85 lbs and is a welcome alternative for those with shoulders tired from carrying other leather behemoths to work. This is a good thing since shoulder pads are not included but can be purchased as an accessory. The compartments and pockets are designed to maximize carrying capacity. There are no space-occupying interior pockets whatsoever except for a side of stretch fabric for holding pens and other small objects. The exterior pockets are deep – deep enough to fit an iPad Air by itself. Oh and don’t forget, those tuck locks really do make a difference.

AESTHETIC

This understated bag is not meant to be a fashion statement. This particular satchel design is from the Heritage collection due to its closeness to the original Jacob de Ruiter designs from decades ago. It has a slightly rugged appeal but is clean and polished enough for casual business attire. The beauty lies in the pull up leather which easily distresses and can take a good beating while traveling. This bag feels more at place at a meeting in a coffee shop than in the executive board room.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Ruitertassen Heritage Professor 13’’ Laptop Satchel is a well-priced working man’s bag. What it lacks in edgy styling, it makes up for in leather quality and smart design details. For those who care more about substance and practicality, this is one bag to put on your wishlist. Although the US store isn’t up yet, it can still be purchased from the UK site and delivered straight to your home.

December 10, 2014December 19, 2017

Florsheim Marlton Wingtips Review – $170

Florsheim got its start over a hundred years ago in the Windy City (Chicago). Surprise! An American luxury shoe brand does exist in this market flooded with Italian companies. Founded in 1892 by a father-son team, it is one of the oldest American shoe brands still in business. For any company that lasts over a century, there must be a market draw that keeps business ever improving and expanding. Some companies find their niche in exclusivity, while others expand into the mainstream. Florsheim went with the latter, expanding into a name brand giant throughout the middle twentieth century. Now a household name, Florsheim is an established American brand with as much heritage to tout as many English and Italian brands. I got my hands on the Marlton Wingtip, a traditional offering from the Limited Collection.

FUNCTION

The fit is initially a little tight, and a bit awkward to step into at first. Breaking in tight shoes with as rigid heels as the Marlton has, my gait must have looked a little strange for one or two days as the leather adjusted to my stride and heel roll. In order to keep a tight oxford-style shoe from warping at the heel, make sure to use a shoehorn. Although they can immediately seem like a superfluous accessory, a simple shoehorn can add years to the life of your shoes. They eventually settled in quite well after the initial discomfort. In fact, these wingtips are now among the best fitting shoes I own, being on the level of my classic Vans skate shoes. However, for some with more dramatic heel roll the height and chunkiness of the sole might be a little dramatic to walk in comfortably. This is not to say that they lack comfort. They feel buttery and comfortable while still being firm, and the insole has a padded insert that also improves the feel.

CONSTRUCTION

A reasonably thick leather sole is goodyear welted with a rubber heel to provide traction. The outsole is thick and seems somewhat durable, though not recommended for rainy days without a rubber sole insert (these can be added by any cobbler for a small fee). Thin calfskin surrounds most of the upper, along with three sturdier suede contrast pieces. Suede around the top of the vamp allows for flexibility where the foot normally bends and warps a completely calfskin or cordovan shoe. Though the calfskin portions seemed at first questionable in thickness, they are resilient and thick enough to maintain the facade of the shoe. Still, I would question the integrity of the upper after a couple years of use. This level quality is well yoked with the price point even if a far cry from twenty year use material, which is nearly the maximum lifespan of any pair of oft-used shoes.

AESTHETIC

Undoubtedly the strongpoint of the shoe, a beautiful design, lends itself to a great reception from anybody who sees them. From a lineup of my personal collection, my family picked them out as either the best or second best looking. They are clean and slim, so as to remain modern and classic at the same time. The wingtip detailing and suede accents are definitively classical elements; you might see them on a Kentucky Derby attendee or Wall Street city slicker in the early twenties. The thin sole and thin profile keep them from looking like an outright anachronism though, and the balance is quite nice.

CONCLUSION

At $170 the Florsheim Marlton Wingtip is a well priced shoe. Not a steal, but a well priced investment that would likely last its wearer many years if properly maintained (use shoe trees, invest in a shoehorn, keep the leather polished and conditioned with a balm or lube, and avoid wearing them in the rain or snow). With a classic look and attractive detailing, this comfortable wingtip is a good choice for anyone looking to attend a derby – or Monday at the office – in style.

December 9, 2014November 21, 2019

Saddleback Leather Classic Valet Tray Review – $59

BestLeather has reviewed numerous items from the Saddleback Leather Company, ranging from tote bags, duffel bags, MacBook sleeves, wallets, and more. But when it comes down to it, sometimes all a person needs to feel put together is a special place to put all their junk. The Saddleback Leather Valet Tray is an ideal solution to this problem.

Being a man who enjoys keeping everything in order and in one place, the Classic Valet Tray was a treat to receive. Every night when I come home and look at this piece sitting by my bed, contentment is on my mind. Because I know that this tray will hold all my items, and it will do it in a flawless fashion.

Construction and Aesthetic

The Saddleback Leather Valet Tray is constructed using Saddleback Leather’s chestnut colored Full-Grain leather. Fastened by two brushed rivets on each overlapping corner for maximum durability, and stitched using marine-grade polyester, the tray’s structure definitely lives up to the Saddleback Leather standard. The inside is lined using dark-tanned pigskin leather. Being 7 ¼” by 7 ¼”, there is plenty of real estate to organize your items in the tray. The best part about this tray is the removable leather bottom panel. This allows for quick cleanup in the case of a spill or mess. Or, if you’re like me, you can keep loads of cash underneath hidden from covetous siblings.

Function

You might be thinking this is just a tray to hold stuff, but it’s so much more. It’s one of the best trays to hold stuff. It holds my phone, wallet, watch, keys, chap stick, headphones, and various other EDC items. It does it all. It is made from the highest quality materials and it’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s also small enough that you can easily pack it in one of your bags an take it with you while you travel. This will ensure that you have a place for all your items at your hotel or wherever you may be staying.

Saddleback’s reputation for quality, well-functioning products is well known. So don’t settle for something less than this and buy a knock-off. In fact, Dave Munson from Saddleback Leather has quite a bit to say on this subject.

Conclusion

The Saddleback Leather Valet Tray might seem like an item you will buy and use occasionally or forget about, but if you are new to leather and want to test a piece out that has numerous practical uses, this is the piece for you. This particular version is in their chestnut color, but they also offer it in tobacco, dark chocolate brown, and carbon. My children won’t need to fight over it when I’m dead…they’ll be able to buy themselves one because it’s reasonably priced at $59.00.

December 8, 2014December 19, 2017

Floto Imports Ragazza Bag Review – $299

A lot of us here at Best Leather love rugged, hard-wearing pieces—bags you could drive a truck over or laptop cases you could throw off the edge of a cliff. Those pieces are great, but sometimes a sleek, delicate bag is the perfect compliment to your outfit when you aren’t planning on taking your stuff to a BASE-jumping contest or a bear fight.

The Floto Imports Ragazza Bag is just that bag. Made of embossed calf-skin leather, this bag has a chic, modern feel that exudes class. It is beautifully simple—just my style. Made by Floto Imports, this bag is a relatively recent addition to their line of handbags, travel bags, and briefcases. Established in 2003 and based in Brooklyn, NY, Floto imports all their calfskin leather bags from Italy. You can check out two of our reviews of their duffle bags here and here. And, we’ll have a review on their new Messenger Brief coming out soon (don’t miss it…it’s a beautiful bag).

AESTHETIC

This is easily the prettiest bag I have ever owned, with its brass colored zipper and hardware and its minimalist design. The sides gently slope upward and inward to give it a “trapezoidal prism” shape, if you will. Even when I have my wallet, phone, keys, makeup, gloves, notebooks, and other items packed in, there is plenty of room, and the sides don’t bulge out, allowing it to keep its smooth appearance. This bag also comes in black, ivory, yellow, and red. While I love the versatile tan color, I also think this bag would have a wonderfully bold, mod look in yellow or red.

FUNCTION

The Ragazza Bag is definitely on the larger side of the spectrum, but it’s not too big for normal everyday use. I can actually fit my 13” laptop and its charger in there with ease. Even though it’s not necessarily built as a laptop bag, it’s nice to know that in a pinch, I can throw my MacBook in there for a quick meeting or trip to the coffee shop and not have to switch bags.

The Ragazza Bag is lined with Floto’s signature striped fabric, which complements the tan leather well. There is a zippered pocket and two small pockets along the sides that can fit my phone and keys so I don’t have to fish around for them. There is also a wide pocket in the middle of the bag to break up the large space. This space is nice for makeup or loose change that you don’t want rolling around the bottom of the bag. It comes with a removable crossbody strap that clips on, but I prefer to just use the handles because I like the way it looks. There are little brass feet at the bottom of the bag to keep the bottom from getting too dirty.

THE LEATHER

The bag is made of embossed Italian calf-skin leather. Tanned in Italy, the hide is tumbled, dried, and sprayed with dye before being compressed in steel molds to create the texture. At first I was worried that the delicate-feeling leather would crease or break easily, but so far that is not the case. Plus, Floto Imports offers a lifetime warranty with its bags should anything go wrong. The only flaw in the leather is a small chip from the edge of the removable shoulder strap.

CONCLUSION

I like my accessories to speak for themselves, without “C’s” or “MK’s” or “LV’s” plastered all over the side to make me a tacky walking advertisement. At $299, the Floto Imports Ragazza Bag is priced a bit lower than all those “C’s” “MK’s and “LV’s” but has all the luxury of designer brands and a much more unique look, as well as a lifetime warranty. I would definitely recommend adding the Floto Imports Ragazza Bag to your collection for those days when you need to stand out with a modern, sleek look.

*Use the code “holiday” to get 30% off on the Floto website! That means this bag costs only $211 right now, which is an awesome deal.

December 3, 2014December 19, 2017

Blue Claw Co. De Gaulle Dopp Review – $90

Blue Claw Co. started in 2010 after an extended overseas trip with the goal of producing modest yet durable luggage goods which could survive any trip. The Blue Claw name comes from the blue crabs of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland as all products from the initial line came with a waterproof blue lining. All products are American through and through – quality American materials put together in America and shipped throughout the U.S.A for free.

CONSTRUCTION

The De Gaulle Dopp is a blend of thick waxed canvas and full-grain cowhide leather. The charcoal canvas is a heavy 14.7 oz. 100% cotton fabric impregnanted with Martexin wax. Martexin Original Wax is an American product comprised of non-hazardous food and pharmaceutical grade waxes. The base leather is a supple yet hefty slab of full-grain goodness which adds weight to the bottom and helps the dopp keep its shape. This soft, minimally-treated leather is proprietary only to the Blue Claw Co. and will not be found anywhere else. Blue Claw Co. has been able to leverage their size and scale to develop their own leather customized from finish, weight, and grade, to the location of where the cow was raised.

Even with all the attention paid to the leather, the hardware is just as important. All hardware is solid brass supplied domestically and customized for color of plating, base metal, and design. A heavy-duty YKK zipper with leather pull-tab keeps your items safely secured and allows for easy opening and closing. Leather end tabs can also be unsnapped to add even more space and make stuffing this large dopp easier. Inside the dopp, the signature blue liner provides a water resistant and easy-to-clean barrier. For the guy-on-the-go, a quick wipe of a sponge will keep this dopp looking sharp for ages to come.

BlueClawCoDeGaulleDopp7 — This thick, supple full-grain leather is proprietary to Blue Claw Co.

FUNCTION

Let’s face it. A dopp kit is meant for functionality and is usually tucked away in your luggage. So when it comes to a dopp kit, the two most important things are size and durability. Fortunately, the De Gaulle Dopp succeeds in both areas. This large dopp measures 10″L x 5.5″W x 6″H and is more than enough to carry a week’s worth of toiletries including toothpaste and electric razors without having to compromise with only using sample or travel size items. The waxed canvas is easy to clean and water-resistant and so is the blue interior lining which protects against accidental spills, toothpaste gunk, and exploding canisters.

AESTHETIC

The dopp is a humble bag with stunningly good looks. The waxed canvas is thick with beautiful texture and shading at every bend and wrinkle. The brown leather is buttery soft and adds sophistication to the overall look, much like leather elbow patches on a gentleman’s tweed suit. On the inside the pop of cobalt blue adds some modern flare to a classic design. The De Gaulle Dopp comes in four colors – charcoal, navy, british tan, and olive. For an extra $20, the bag can be personalized for some added custom luxury.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

At $90, the Blue Claw Co. De Gaulle Dopp is a perfect blend of form and function, well worth it for any sophisticated traveller. This all-American travel companion will easily last a lifetime and only get more beautifully burnished with time and use.

December 1, 2014April 24, 2023

Craft & Lore Northwestward Field Notes Review – $80

If you’re a scatterbrain like me and need a mini notebook to carry around with you to keep track of life, you will know that notebooks break apart quickly when carried every day. That’s where the Craft And Lore Northwestward Field Notes cover shines. It is a leather cover for the supplied Field Notes notebook with a few card slots on the inside.

Chad Von Lind is the owner, and maker of Craft And Lore. He produces fine hand made leather goods out of his home shop Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He is both “In word and deed” an honest, hard working, and skilled craftsman.

Construction

The Craft & Lore Northwestward Field Notes cover is made from quality Belgium tanned 4/5oz saddle leather. This weight of leather is ideal in my opinion. Thicker and tougher than a 2/3oz however any thicker and it would be a pain to carry. The dye is applied evenly and the finish is smooth, with a nice sheen. It closes via two quality snaps that are set firmly. The piece is hand stitched together with heavy duty waxed thread. He pays every attention to the details when stitching. Backstitching is done at the beginning and end of all stitching lines making the strongest bond.

Function

Having used the notebook cover daily now for 2 weeks or so, I am a big fan. It is like my organizational hub. I run two business in addition to writing for BestLeather so I have lots to keep track of and it is great to have a notebook on me at all times. I also need to carry two sets of business cards and the two card slots are perfect for my needs.

My only issue with it is the pen slot. You cannot fit a full sized pen in the designed slot. It is designed for a mini pen, which I don’t have. However this may be a positive for you. Now the biggest plus in my eyes is that the leather cover prolongs the life of the notebook inside, by quite a lot. This allows me to keep my important ‘scribblings’ safe for much longer than if I were to throw it in my pocket un-protected.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics is a difficult topic, as it is purely subjective. However as leather connoisseurs, most of us can agree on how quality leather good looks. Quality leather consists of a nice even dye, a good finish with a pleasing luster, even straight stitching, and properly set snaps. The Northwestward Field Notes encompasses all of those aesthetics making it a very high quality, aesthetically pleasing cover.

BestLeather Conclusion

The Craft & Lore Northwestward Field Notes is a great addition for the unorganized. A very well built organizational hub for you notes and business/credit cards. You can also use it as a passport holder too! It is perfect for someone who needs to carry two sets of business cards. Aesthetically it is a gorgeous piece of art. Functionally it performs well, it will keep the contents safe and secure and is easy to use. However, it will require the purchase and use of a smaller pen. But with that said, it will prolong the life of your notebook in a beautiful handmade in Idaho package.

November 28, 2014December 19, 2017

Loyal Stricklin Loyal Travel Wallet Review – $156

It’s amazing how many different types of wallets are out there. Do a quick Google search and you will find countless styles from almost every leather maker. So which do you choose? I won’t answer that for you, but if you are looking for something unique, well made, and useful, Loyal Stricklin provides.

The name says it all for the Loyal Travel Wallet. This is the second wallet from Loyal Stricklin that we have reviewed. Just like the front pocket wallet, this is one of the best wallets for travel that I have seen. The sheer quality will guarantee it will stay true to its owner for many adventures to come.

Construction

Loyal Stricklin does not disappoint with their build quality. The wallet is made from 4oz. Horween Chromexcel horsehide and stitched together with sturdy thread. Just like the other Loyal Stricklin wallet reviewed, this one is rugged looking without being rough. Each of the four pieces that make up the wallet are perfectly cut, sewn together, and finished with smooth burnished edges.

Function

The Loyal Travel Wallet easily carries everything that a traveler needs on a vacation. The slots can accommodate up to eight cards, the money pocket is roomy enough to tote a normal amount of cash, and the exterior pocket holds all the boarding passes you would need.

An added bonus is the included field journal and pen, allowing you to always be able to document anything that may happen without needing anything other than your wallet. Travel wallets that can carry all of these things typically are too large to fit in any pant pockets but this one slides right into the back without a hitch; however, it does stick out of the pocket a bit which, for me, is a problem, especially when traveling in tourist areas where pickpockets are rampant. Although, if you like having a chain on your wallet, there is a metal hole built in just for this purpose. For frequent jacket wearers, the wallet fits perfectly in the inside pockets. If you fit into either of these categories then the size will not be an issue.

When buying a wallet, especially one as nice as this one, I look for something that can be used in multiple situations. Outside of travel, I don’t know how much I will personally use this, but my wife loves it. The wallet fits nicely in a typical purse as well as a clutch. It is big enough to hold all the extra paper and accessories (hair ties and bobby pens) that I usually find in her wallet and because she is a list maker, the added pen and journal are perfect. Amazingly enough, Loyal Stricklin’s wallet has nearly replace her basic purse. If it was a half inch longer, it could replace the checkbook too.

Aesthetic

This wallet is gorgeous. The Horween leather used has a deep, rich brown color giving it a very understated look. Although you can get this model with colorful stitching, the one that I have blends right in with the rest of the wallet. Loyal Stricklin really hit it home with the design. It doesn’t look like you are going out on an expedition with heavy duty buckles, leather straps, and pouches all over the wallet, but instead, it has a sleek design that hides and secures everything in it making it more at home for daily use.

Conclusion

This is definitely one of the best all-around travel wallets I have ever seen. It provides enough space and pockets to carry the basic travel needs including a journal on the go. The construction is fabulous and well thought out as well. The price is steep for an occasional travel item, but if you find yourself on many adventures or like to carry a journal everywhere, but have no good way to carry it, this is a wallet to consider. If you are in the market for a travel wallet, this is definitely a BestLeather Buy It For Life item.

Check out this wallet and other great gear from Loyal Stricklin here!

November 26, 2014December 19, 2017

Origins Leather Company Utility Tote Bag Review – $199

Over the past few months, BestLeather.org has reviewed several products from Origins Leather Company, including their Simple Wallet and Classic Briefcase, which was also the featured giveaway product in August. The company successfully funded a Kickstarter earlier this year and launched their line of vegetable-tanned leather bags and accessories. So far, we’ve been impressed by their products, so when I talked to Erik from Origins Leather Company, I was excited to check out another product from their line, the Utility Tote Bag.

Construction and Aesthetic

This tote is constructed with beautiful chestnut colored vegetable-tanned leather, dyed all the way through. The outside of the bag is super soft and smooth, making the handles comfortable to hold. The handles are long enough to carry over the shoulder, and the straps run through a loop at the top of the bag, fastened by rivets at the bottom. I’ll explain why in just a minute!

The bag is 16” deep and 16” wide, making it easy to hold a laptop, papers, groceries, picnic supplies, or whatever you need to haul around. The seams are stitched with marine-grade polyester thread and feel very sturdy. There is a little pouch stitched to the inside that’s big enough to fit your phone and keys so you don’t have to fish around for them. On the outside of the Utility Tote Bag, the stitching for the pouch is hidden behind the straps, which is a nice touch. A rectangular piece of leather sits at the bottom of the bag to help reinforce it and keep its shape. The top is fastened with a brass snap.

Function

While the tote looks beautiful, the best part of this bag is its unique design. This tote is designed so you can pull the straps through the loops to hold a blanket or wear it as a backpack. I’m excited for warmer weather, because this bag will be absolutely perfect for picnics, outdoor concerts, and music festivals. I can place my favorite wool blanket through the loops, stick it on my back, and keep my hands free (especially important if you have little ones, like all the founders of Origins Leather Company).

The bag is breaking in nicely, and is extremely sturdy (plus it’s backed with a 100-year warranty). I’ve been using it almost every day to carry around my 13” laptop and its charger, several notebooks and folders, my wallet, keys, phone, and a hat and gloves, which all fit nicely. I sometimes even stick my jacket through the loops if I need to be hands-free.

Take a look at the company’s demonstration video to get a feel for just how functional this bag is.

Conclusion

The Origins Leather Company Utility Tote Bag is an awesome bag in every situation. I love how much care went into designing a product that really has the customer in mind. Once summer comes around, I’ll be taking this bag all over the place—to the farmer’s market, to the park, on a picnic, to concerts…and the leather is so pretty that it works in a more professional setting too. At $199, the Utility Tote Bag is very well priced for such high-quality, environmentally friendly leather, and innovative design.

*Origins Leather Company is currently offering a 15% off coupon code to our readers here at BestLeather.org! Use the code BEST15 at checkout.

November 25, 2014December 19, 2017

Bison No. 1 Belt in Burgundy Review – $100

With a strong line of leather wallets including the No. 2 Wallet in Navy and the iPhone 5 Wallet, Bison has made the next logical leap in leather good designs – equally strong belts. Starting out with just two belt designs, Bison has once again successfully blended tough American hides with smooth sophisticated construction. Today, we get to look at the No. 1 Belt in Burgundy.

CONSTRUCTION

Like all Bison goods, The No. 1 belt is constructed by hand in the U.S.A. This single prime strip of thick full-grain English bridle leather is sourced from the Hermann Oak tannery in St. Louis, Missouri. All metal is solid brass casting. A buckle and belt loop are fastened to the belt with solid brass Chicago screws so the belt may be disassembled to switch buckles. You can then pick a raw brass finishing option or brushed nickel plating. Sizing is according to the conventional fashion standard similar to buying jeans and not to true measured size. Belt width measures 3.5 cm. This belt definitely feels tougher than it looks and you can feel the weight and strength of the leather in your hands when comparing it to those typical “fashion” belts you see at the mall.

FUNCTION

I put this belt to the test. Both a coworker and I tried it on, sat down, stood up, and walked around, and it was able to hold back the leviathans that are our midsections without difficulty. Upon taking off the belt (yes, my coworker wanted to keep it for himself), there was no evidence of any permanent creasing, warping, or frayed edges, even after multiple wears. The Chicago screw features adds some versatility to the belt in case you want to switch up the buckle with your own selection not offered on the website.

AESTHETIC

Bison goods have a simple, clean sophistication to them and this belt fits right in. The leather is uniformly dyed without any marks, blemishes, or uneven coloring even in harsh lighting conditions. The edges are unwaxed but have a nice smooth fully-dyed and burnished look to them. This allows the belt to work in both the casual and dress settings particularly with the raw brass option. The No. 1 belt also comes in golden tan, cognac, brown, and black color options all in Hermann Oak English bridle leather. For even more options, buyers can pick a more modern buckle style with the No. 2 Belt.

BisonNo1Belt8 — No one will fault you for taking off your belt in the office and showing it off on your desk.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Bison No. 1 Belt in Burgundy is a classy yet versatile belt with quality that you can see and feel. Stop wasting your time and money repeatedly buying cheap leather designer belts that fall apart on the clearance rack. At $100, the No. 1 Belt is a worthy investment that will put your other generic cowhide belts to shame.

November 22, 2014December 19, 2017

Far Horizon Traders Serengeti Satchel Review – $249.99

Far Horizon Traders (FHT) has had some great products reviewed in the past including the Sahara Bag as well as the Ascent Rucksack. Today, we bring to you the Serengeti Satchel Review to complement their wide variety of bags.

CONSTRUCTION

The other two reviews mentioned it, and I’ll mention it again – the smell of FHT leather is addicting. It’s not overpowering and it’s not chemical. It’s just enough to lure your nose into taking a nice big whiff from the surface. The Serengeti Satchel is made from 4-5 oz full grain vegetable-tanned leather put together in Mexico. The front straps as well as shoulder straps are lined with a dark chocolate suede and the single internal compartment inside is lined with a brown canvas accented by a leather pocket and four slots for writing instruments or AA flashlights. A heavy-duty YKK zipper closes the top and the double straps on the front flap are held down by aged brass buckles. Brass rivets are also used on the straps.

FUNCTION

The satchel measures 16″w x 10.5″h x 4″d. It is more than big enough to fit a day’s worth of work gear including a computer, laptop, light sweater, notebook, and camera. The single external side pocket has a slit-button cover for easy access and most importantly to keep things from falling out. The YKK zippered top is also a welcome security function that lets me forgo buckling down the front flaps when I’m in a hurry. The shoulder strap feels comfortable and the pad has a unique shape, although it could benefit from a little more “padding” besides the additional layer of suede. The large back panel pocket is surprisingly roomy and, due to the suppleness of the leather, really expands out to be able to fit a good amount. The bag itself is not too heavy given the fact that interior materials are mostly canvas.

FHT Serengeti11 — Big enough to hold some books, snacks, phone, keys, wallet, and your sternum.

My favorite part of this bag? This bag is SUPPLE. It’s the perfect balance of soft yet rugged leather. The bag is soft enough to contour to the items you fill it with, but sturdy enough to maintain its shape and stand empty. This is one of those bags you would hold on your lap on a crowded rush-hour subway and end up resting your head on and taking a nap. You really have to hold it to enjoy it. It’s a bear of a bag – tough looking on the outside but cuddly on the inside.

AESTHETIC

This bag follows the trend of the other Far Horizon Trader bags. It is appropriately named the Serengeti because it looks like it has been sun-tanned, aged, weathered, and well travelled, yet close your eyes and it feels like a new, just-conditioned, luxury bag. The patina is beautiful but not too much that you can’t build your own. Unlike some other rugged-type bags, there are almost no rivets on the bag itself and the inverted seems and folded edges add a sense of sophistication to this item. The color tone is subtle kept consistent throughout even down to the aged brass hardware. One other aspect of this bag is the multiple panels used to create it. The flap, side, front, back, and bottom add up to 12 separate pieces from what I can see. Some may argue that more pieces means more weak points but they do not appear to be in any particular load bearing areas and I actually prefer the aesthetic lines these create around the entire bag.

FHT Serengeti12 — Just the right size for a 6’3” British Indian man on the phone.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Far Horizon Traders Serengeti Satchel is a soft, smelly, beat-up looking leather bag for $249.99 – all reasons why you should feel, smell, and use this bag as often as possible and not feel guilty.

November 21, 2014October 22, 2021

Rustic Leather Writer’s Bag Review – $139

The Rustic Leather Replica Mailbag Review this past spring introduced readers to Rustic Leather’s uncompromising dedication to full-grain American goodness. The Writer’s Bag is created with the same principles and is the latest addition to the product line found on their Etsy website.

CONSTRUCTION

Out of the box, the first thing that hits you is that fresh leather smell. You can’t really lose this bag because you can just sniff it out. It’ll make whatever room it’s in smell like your favorite leather shoe store or the box to your favorite pair of leather boots. The Writer’s Bag measures 9.5” wide, 11” high, and 2” deep. Made of 2-3mm thick full-grain 4-5 oz. cowhide, this small bag weighs in at 22 ounces. The leather is substantial and rugged – the dark chocolate color is not afraid to show off scratches while taking a beating. Stitching is performed with machine precision using marine grade, UV resistant, polyester thread. Rivets are placed at high tension areas such as edges and corners. The inside is a single compartment lined with a velvety soft suede lining (I wish my suede jacket was this soft). The suede is perfect for keeping anything you need for your writing scratch-free. Whether you carry a notebook for your drafts or a laptop to do the job for custom essay writing service, they will fit the inside well and stay safe throughout the wear. Your things will also remain dry due to the material. Like the rest of Rustic Leather’s gear, this bag is hand crafted in Texas.

FUNCTION

The Writer’s Bag is a deeper version of Rustic Leather’s Shoulder Pouch. The original pouch was created to function as a second pocket on your body for keys, wallet, phone etc. This new bag has a simple, single compartment design with the original function to carry accessories but fills in the niche between a full briefcase or satchel and a thin pouch. In addition to your basic small everyday carry items, it is just tall and wide enough to fit small notebooks, an iPad Air, documents, books, small items of clothing, electronic gear like a Macbook charger, and anything else that you feel like cramming into the 2’’ deep pocket. There are two additional slim pockets on the sides for tall, thin items such as writing utensils, and a large back panel pocket for easy access papers and flat items. The looped flap closure design is also elegant and easy to use – a nice welcome to the endless buckles from all my other bags.

RusticLeatherWritersbag09 — Perfect fit for an iPad Air with a case.

RusticLeatherWritersbag07 — Enough room for a 550cc silicone implant…and then some.

RusticLeatherWritersbag04 — Need a place for your voodoo mask? No problem! Just slip it into the external pocket.

The Writer’s Bag can be used independently with the carrying strap provided, or it can be attached to other items using the snap-on fasteners in the back. These fasteners are bit more streamlined and sleeker looking than the Shoulder Pouch whose fasteners have a push-down handle. While these fasteners snap easily onto other items, it requires a little bit of practice to get used to quickly detaching them from your briefcase handle D-rings for example. First try took me a few minutes, now it takes me a few seconds. I’m sure once you get used to these handleless snaps it will be …..a snap. On the other hand, this bag would be great for travel or crowded areas, because thieves will not easily swipe it off your briefcase or satchel and it is less likely for an accidental bump to knock the fasteners off.

AESTHETIC

This bag is a simple, no-frills design created for function and durability. The stitching is impeccable and the rivets and raw unfinished edges definitely give the bag a more masculine and rugged feel. The rounded edges and even the smooth handleless fasteners (though frustrating) do add a bit of clean sophistication to the overall look. This particular bag is considered “Rich Chocolate,” although other color options such as “Buckskin Tan” are available if you contact Dave, the owner, through the website. The leather will start out tough and beautiful but will definitely get scratched, soften, and patina over time depending on how hard it gets thrown around. The Maker’s Mark on the back pocket does slightly break up the nice clean look of this bag, but the bag can be specifically ordered without it.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Rustic Leather Writer’s Bag is a well-constructed durable intermediary between a full-sized satchel/briefcase and a shoulder pouch. Priced at $139 on their Etsy store, this bag would make a great gift for anyone with a taste for American-made leather without breaking the bank or their back.

November 20, 2014December 19, 2017

Craft & Lore Axe Holster – $37

As a woodsman an axe in an essential tool. Having worked 4 years on a backcountry trail crew I have a lot of hours on an axe. One thing I know is just how easy it is to set it down while gathering wood and lose your axe. The Craft & Lore Axe Holster solves that problem. It is by no means a new idea, however a great rendition of a classic tool.

Chad Von Lind is the owner and maker of Craft & Lore. He produces fine hand made leather goods out of his home shop Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He is both “In word and deed” an honest, hard working, and skilled craftsman.

Construction

The Craft & Lore Axe Holster is about as simple and tough as a leather item could get. Leather, rivets. The leather is a 13 oz. English bridle leather, a very tough, thick and sturdy choice. The two pieces are held together with four solid brass hand peened rivets, one of the strongest types of rivet. With this kind of construction I don’t think you could break it if you tried.

Function

Sometimes simplicity is beauty, and it couldn’t get any simpler than this holster. It simply attaches to your belt and holds an axe. The belt loop is quite large and can accommodate any sized belt. The opening is large enough to hold any hatchet or axe, however I wouldn’t carry something longer than 28” as it might feel cumbersome or scrape the ground. However my 19 1/2” axe is perfect. The holster works wonderfully in my field testing and it will be a go to item for my woods kit.

Aesthetics

The leather has a brown oil dye that looks wonderful. It is even and has a nice luster. The edges are beveled and burnished giving it a nice finished look. The rivets are spaced evenly and I love the look of hand peened rivets. The color of the leather offset by the brass is my favorite combination. This is the kind of item you will cherish every time you use it.

BestLeather Conclusion

The Craft & Lore Axe Holster is a simply designed and beautifully built, “bombproof” holster for your hatchet or axe. It keeps your axe right at your hip allowing two free hands. Is it a buy it for life item? No, it is a buy it for multiple lives item. With its extreme build quality this is something you can, and will want to leave for the kids.

November 20, 2014December 19, 2017

Loyal Stricklin Front Pocket Wallet Review – $89.99

There are countless different types of front pocket wallets available, but few are as good as the one from Loyal Stricklin. Michael Stricklin started the company for a reason we hear a lot around here; he was tired of only having low quality goods available. Michael and his small band of artisans took it upon themselves to set things right and they nailed it. All of their products are meticulously handmade in an old railway depot in Opelika, AL using only US sourced materials to create simple, functional pieces of art that will serve their owners well for many years to come.

Construction

The construction of the wallet is impeccable. Loyal Stricklin uses tried-and-true Horween Dublin leather, heavy-duty stitching, and durable hardware and finishes the wallet off with clean, burnished edges. After a month of daily use and close inspection, I couldn’t find any faults in the build quality.

Function

I have always really loved the idea of front pocket wallets, especially for travel, but due to their size, I never found them practical for everyday use, that is, until this one. Loyal Stricklin has developed a design that easily fits in the front pocket and carries all the cash, cards, and all of the miscellaneous stuff that I carry in my everyday wallet.

So how does Loyal Stricklin do this? First they made the wallets primary function as a card holder. The pocket is nice and wide so that I can easily fit up to ten different cards into it and once the flap is secured; there is no possible way for any cards to fall out of the wallet. The cash is held in by a tight flap on the back of the wallet. Even the flap has a small pocket that I have found useful for stashing a house key, a useful and necessary feature since I often lock myself out.

Although this wallet has become my everyday carrier, there are just a few things that I wish were different. The first is the button clasp’s size. The large button creates a bulge that is sometimes noticeable when worn in the back pocket, but’s only a problem when sitting in uncushioned seats for an extended amount of time.

Overall, this is not an issue and I definitely wouldn’t trade the bulge for a less durable clasp. The second issue is the money pocket. It takes a little bit of effort to get cash into the slot and if you try to fit anything more than five or six bills into it, you have to accept having some of the money sticking out. I never carry more than twenty dollars on me so this has never been an problem.

Aesthetic

The Loyal Stricklin Front Pocket Wallet has a lot of character without being ridiculous looking. As stated before, it has a very slim profile, slimmer than a small smartphone, which makes it comfortable and natural to wear in a front pocket. The leather has a rich brown color that has quickly developed a lovely patina, especially around the button. My favorite aspect is the inclusion of dark blue stitching rather than black. It gives the wallet a subtle flare that I haven’t had in any other wallet.

Conclusion

This is one sweet wallet. The exceptional build quality and design create a wallet that secures cards better than the traditional variety and provides pockets for both cash and other small items while keeping the profile slim. Although it is priced higher than most other wallets, quality, character, and utility of the wallet justifies the cost. It definitely is built for people who use credit cards as their main form of payment so if you carry a lot of cash, this may not be for you. If not, this wallet will serve you well for many years to come.

Check out this wallet and other great gear from Loyal Stricklin here! While you’re at it, see what the team is up to on Instagram!