Kisetsu Aki Wallet in Crazy Horse Leather – $99

We review products quite often that are a part of our reader’s “everyday carry” items. A typical everyday carry includes wallet, keys, cell phone, and often a multi-tool Swiss Army type knife. The Kisetsu Aki wallet is mostly wallet, and a bit of the multi-tool. This wallet has more features than any I’ve personally used, and manages it all in an impressively minimal form.

Let’s make a quick list. Inside this thin package we’ve got:

External single card pocket
Internal single card quick access pocket
Pull-out thicker pocket for multiple less-used cards
Pen
Cash/receipt strap
Micro-SD card slot
Secure coin pocket

The first of the Aki’s signature features is the external single card pocket, or what they call the “ninja slot.” This card will be hidden when not in use, but when you push on the small window, the card pops up just enough to grab. My hope is that this will become more smooth with lots of use, but in the weeks I’ve used it, it’s actually been fairly hard to push the card up. Pro tips: using both hands makes it easier, and cards with textured or raised lettering are much easier to push out than perfectly smooth cards. Despite the force necessary, having a card accessible without needing to open the rest of the wallet does have a certain convenience to it.

The inner multi-card pocket uses a pull tab for easy access, and the single card pocket on top of that is good for your second most used card. Cards are RFID protected.

I’m a big fan of the pen. It’s tiny and barely noticeable in the crease of the wallet, but has saved me a handful of times. The Aki comes with a single replacement cartridge.

Next up is the cash/receipt strap. The best part of this feature is that there’s no dormant space taken up if you don’t have any cash on you. Since I rarely have cash or receipts, this was great for me. When I actually do use it it’s a bit more cumbersome than a typical cash slot. It does make things more visible and, if handled correctly, easier to get out, but placing things in it is tricky and the pile of paper can get in the way of other features, such as the coin pouch.

While we’re talking about the coin pouch…this is something I use very rarely, but sure is handy when I need it. The edge of the pocket has a small flap that you can slip under the pocket itself to keep coins secure. It takes a second to open and close, but has never let coins slip out and, like the cash strap, takes up no unnecessary space.

Clearly the emphasis here is the swiss-army level feature set in a thin package, but of course we at BestLeather have to discuss the leather, other materials, and construction. The leather used for the Aki is called “crazy horse leather.” Crazy horse is, contrary to the name, a cow leather. It has some pull up properties, and a touch of the suede/nubuck feel at the surface. Kisetsu uses full grain crazy horse for the Aki. It is thin and has been sewn and folded over several non-leather components such as what appears to be a nylon lining for the coin pocket and other features. The non-leather materials become the weakest link, likely breaking down within an owner’s lifetime. However, construction is overall good, and the Aki should last for quite a few years.

If you’re looking for a product that leverages some of the good qualities of leather and combines that with lots of fun and useful features in a minimal/front pocket package, I’d recommend the Kisetsu Aki. Kisetsu has clearly put lots of thought into this product. Not all the features function as nicely as I hoped, but I’d say the biggest advantage of the Aki is that it’s incredibly thin and makes it very easy to go minimal, but has the necessary accommodations for when you do need to hold more.

December 7, 2016December 19, 2017

Wallis Standard Leather Weightlifting Belt Review — $150

Intro

I began bodybuilding almost two years ago.

At first, I didn’t understand the importance of protecting my lower back. But as I got into heavier weights, I realized how badly I needed a belt. A good belt. Something that would remind me to keep my core tight and activated, which, in turn, would keep my back self-reliant. Something for my core to press and strain against under heavy loads.

I started using the generic belts abandoned at my local gym. I tried the nylon ones and whatever else I could find. Then I tried on a friend’s more expensive leather belt, and it was like nothing else. It fit just right. It hit me that I was investing all this time in myself but hadn’t done the same for my equipment. When I realized this, I decided I was going to find a belt I would love.

My quest came to a close thanks to Instagram and a tip from a good friend. My first Men’s Physique competition will be in March 2017. I’m eager for the challenge, and I’m excited to bring the Wallis Standard Weightlifting Belt along with me.

About Wallis Weight Belts

I spoke on the phone with Garrott and Evan, the founders and craftsmen of Wallis Weightbelts, and I learned the story behind their products. They met in 7th grade band practice. After college, they landed at the same gym in Lubbock, Texas. That got them talking about their mutual passions, which led to making CrossFit weight belts.

Their high quality work has made a splash in the industry, and they’ve gained a faithful Instagram following, thanks in part to the high-profile CrossFitters who use their products, including champs like Brooke Ence (2015 CrossFit Games).

As far as the craftsmanship goes, they’re confident that no one does what they do with the same level of quality, and I’m inclined to agree.

Quality

First thing out of the box, I couldn’t stop handling this belt.

Just hefting it, you get a sense of its quality. It’s simply designed, and the detailing is beautiful. The belt is cut by hand from a single piece of thick, 0.8cm, cowhide leather (American and vegetable tanned). It’s sourced from the Hermann Oak Leather Company in St. Louis.

The tail of the belt is held down by a keeper. I’ve had the belt a month, and there’s only one problem I’ve seen—the hand-stitching on the keeper loop has unraveled slightly, though not enough to compromise the loop. It adds something to the rugged aesthetic.

The buckle is heavy duty. It employs double prongs, making an extra strong latch. It has a rotator around the end of it, which makes for smooth, easy buckling. And the buckle’s attached with a fixed loop to the main piece of leather by four Chicago screws.

Functionality

The actual belt is 4 inches wide, enough to provide proper support through a variety of lifts, but not so wide that it impairs range of motion. The edges of the belt are burnished in black, giving it a smooth surface. It fits snugly to the body, and the interior suede feels great.

Just so you know, for the first two weeks of use, the stiffness of the keeper loop bruised me right under my rib cage. But now a month after using it daily, the belt has molded perfectly to my body and is incredibly comfortable in every sort of lifting position. It hasn’t decreased my satisfaction, but it’s something to be aware of—so expect to take a little time breaking it in.

Ten double adjuster holes run along the tail of the belt, spaced perfectly for a flush fit to the body. And they’re close enough that I never got stuck between a hole that’s too loose and the next which would be too tight. I used the sizing guide on the Wallis website, and the fit was so perfect that I’m currently using the centermost hole. That leaves me tons of room to gain or lose without growing out of the belt—another factor that adds value to a long-term investment.

Customization

I upgraded my belt from the “Standard Weightlifting Belt” to include some simple customization. I added my last name across the back, and it’s beautiful. The Wallis team did a fantastic job on this personalization.

The belt also uses contrast topstitching. You can request different colors, which is another way to make it more uniquely yours.

Conclusion

I love it.

The Wallis Standard Weightlifting Belt is a fine piece of a craftsmanship. I’ve loved using it. Its cost reflects its value, and I think it’s more than worth it. I’m glad to recommend it to my fellow CrossFitters and weightlifting enthusiasts.

[Jason Barrus and J Washburn wrote this review in collaboration.]

December 5, 2016December 19, 2017

[Ended] GIVEAWAY ($465 Value) – Korchmar Garfield Laptop Messenger Bag

We are pleased to partner and feature a holiday giveaway from the folks at Korchmar – their Garfield Laptop Messenger, a great bag designed for larger laptops and workplace items. Korchmar is coming up on their 100th anniversary, having been founded in 1917. Continue reading below to enter into the contest, learn more about this Korchmar bag and see some pictures!

From the review:

This bag really nails the design and aesthetics, particularly with the quick-release buckles and the shape of the top flap. Notice how the edges in the photo below curve in slightly towards the bag. This is a functional element I enjoyed because when you carrying briefcases by shoulder straps, the edges of the flap can begin to crease inward if they are straight cut. Korchmar’s choice to curve the edges allows more maneuverability and avoidance of the bag creasing at those points. The ability to slide the bag onto rolling luggage via the back luggage strap is also an important feature.
One of the most useful features of the bag is how it opens. The Garfield utilizes a Tuck-Tite quick release system partially hidden behind the buckles. The buckles are also functional in that they allow for expansion of the bags capacity. This is a perfect setup for the individual looking to hold that business briefcase look while also needing fast or frequent access to the inner compartments. I could classify this as a tech bag in that it adequately protects my 15-inch laptop as well as cased iPad mini. Fully loaded with my work gear, this the initial weight of the bag was not as cumbersome as bags I have owned in the past.

See the full review on the Garfield Messenger to see the great features and style this bag offers.

Giveaway Details

The giveaway with run until December 14th at midnight and then we will pick and announce one lucky winner! The winner will have a Korchmar Garfield Messenger shipped to them following the announcement. There are a ton of ways for you to enter into the contest, and make sure you come daily as some of the ways to enter can be done once a day. The more entries you have the better chance you have of winning, so make sure get as many of them as possible before December 14th at midnight. You can enter the contest below:

Enter the Giveaway Below

[RF_CONTEST contest=’3805′]

Bag features:

Full grain American leather
Quick release metal closures for easy access, and buckle adjuster for expansion
Multiple interior pockets expand for to hold Smartphone, iPad, power cords and small personal items
Large double front gusseted pockets
Exterior back pocket and zipped interior pocket
Pillow soft padded leather handle
Removable, adjustable shoulder strap with ergonomic pad
Handcrafted with care in our own factory
Made in the USA
Fits up to a 15″ laptop
Dimensions: 16.5″ x 6″ x 13″

December 5, 2016December 19, 2017

Korchmar Garfield Laptop Messenger Bag Review – $465

We’ve recently partnered with Korchmar to host a giveaway. Prior to the giveaway, I was given a chance to review the bag chosen. Check out this review and head on over to our giveaway page to participate!

When shopping for a bag that can carry larger sized laptops, there is often a fight between major components such as size/weight, capacity, durability, and look. For those with 15-inch laptops, you can often run into a bag that is too big or too small, and made out of cheaper materials such as nylon. Too heavy – you’ll likely not want to carry it given the added weight your electronics will add. Too light – and you’re left wondering how long the bag will last. Korchmar has created the Garfield messenger bag as a solution to those who may need to carry larger laptops and other items while being durable enough to handle their daily activities.

Korchmar is a fourth-generation family owned company which produces goods made in the United States. They have been in business since 1917, nearing 100 years. Michael Korchmar is the current President of the company that has been making business-style cases since the 1920s after originally starting with leather headlamp covers for automobiles.

The Garfield bag is constructed primarily of Full grain leather. This bag is part of Korchmar’s Pull-up Collection which includes chrome tanned leather that was also re-tanned with vegetable tanned methods. This particular bag comes with its share of full grain characteristics – scratches and veining/marbling of the cowhide showing. While full grain, I suspect the Texas-raised hides for these bags are picked and cut such to avoid using high stretch-mark areas of the hide such as belly leather which could affect durability. Having previously carried another heavier full grain bag for my laptops, this one is considerably lighter but not too light. As the bag begins to take on patina it will take on more scratches from use, perfect for those who love the aged look. The hardware is solid brass and compliments the leather color.The major edges of the bag are covered with another layer of leather, which adds to a more formal finished look. The logo is placed on the right front pocket, de-bossed in with a subtle appearance.

The interior is lined with patterned canvas as well as the two outside gusseted pockets on the front and the newspaper pocket on the back. Inside, there is a keychain strap as well as multiple pockets for storing iPads, most 15 inch laptops, charging cables, and cell phones/PDA. The bag also sports a rear pocket and a nylon webbing-backed luggage strap along the backside for transport on rolling carriers. I was able to fit my 14 or my 15 inch laptop, an ipad, iphone, a full sized notepad in cover, phone, keys, field notes, and kindle eReader in the main storage. There is still space in the zippered pocket that I used to stash receipts or smaller papers. I’ll note that next to the cellphone there are multiple webbed pockets for other items such as card readers, business cards, and headphone cables. In the front pockets I stored chargers for electronics in one, and lunch (typically a sandwich, chips, fruit) in the other pocket. The back rear pocket typically holds my bullet journal.

The shoulder strap is padded with a rough suede side that grips well to suit jackets, shirts, and sweaters. The only negative I’ve experienced with the strap is that its construction utilizes relatively thin pieces of leather glued and stitched together. I would have liked to see thicker leather strips sewn together for the strap. The padded handle is one of the most comfortable handles on a briefcase I have used, nicely cushioned without pvc inserts which are sometimes to maintain structure.

One of the most useful features of the bag is how it opens. The Garfield utilizes a Tuck-Tite quick release system partially hidden behind the buckles. They are magnetic and also release with a push of a button. The buckles are also functional in that they allow for expansion of the bags capacity. This is a perfect setup for the individual looking to hold that business briefcase look while also needing fast or frequent access to the inner compartments. I could classify this as a tech bag in that it adequately protects my 15-inch laptop as well as cased iPad mini. Fully loaded with my work gear, this the initial weight of the bag was not as cumbersome as bags I have owned in the past.

This bag really nails the design and aesthetics, particularly with the quick-release buckles and the shape of the top flap. Notice how the edges in the photo below curve in slightly towards the bag. This is a functional element I enjoyed because when you carrying briefcases by shoulder straps, the edges of the flap can begin to crease inward if they are straight cut. Korchmar’s choice to curve the edges allows more maneuverability and avoidance of the bag creasing at those points. The ability to slide the bag onto rolling luggage via the back luggage strap is also an important feature.

While the gusset on the main compartment is not one complete piece of leather, the bottom piece is placed in a way to insure durability. The bottom of the bag has some added support or padding to avoid damage of the inner contents. The construction gives me no suspicions or fears of splitting like bags that are stitched in the bottom middle part of the bag.

Overall, I can say with confidence that the Korchmar Garfield bag is a Buy it for Life product in all aspects. Priced at $465, it is worth the investment especially being proudly made in the USA. Accompanied by a 5-year warranty, the bag will surely stand up against regular use while protecting your goods. While some prefer suede or unlined interiors, I believe the canvas lining is the perfect choice when carrying electronics. The size of the bag is well-suited for the individual carrying a laptop and other business related items such as notepads and file folders.

Want this bag for free? Enter our giveaway below for your chance to win it!

[RF_CONTEST contest=’3805′]

November 29, 2016December 19, 2017

WotanCraft Night Rider Leather Sling Bag Review (2016 Christmas Special) – $449

I’ve had the privilege of getting hands on with WotanCraft’s creations several times for BestLeather. Each time is a unique experience and with their latest product, the Night Rider Leather Sling Bag, the trend continues. This time we stray from the typical camera bag to a versatile bag that is just as ready for riding as it is walking.

CONSTRUCTION

WotanCraft really pride themselves and the construction and materials used. Don’t be fooled by the good looks. This little bag is bombproof. The vegetable tanned Italian cowhide leather is pretty thick and the bag has a hefty presence (Weighs in around 2lbs 5oz) Rivets are used in some high stress point areas and the velveteen lining is super soft and tech friendly. Bronze YKK zippers are used throughout and feature rustproof coatings. The straps are a leather and canvas combination.

FUNCTION

The Night Rider can be used in any manner you wish. One of its design points is the ability to be securely fastened to the body via multi point harness. The bag has a second strap that goes under the armpit and over the shoulder. This secures the bag when riding from sliding across your back.

Also noteworthy is that since shoulder strap is fully detachable, which means that for both left or right handed individuals, Night Rider can be worn with the leather shoulder pad on the weight bearing side.

Around town it can be carried messenger style across the back or more like a duffel to the sides as well. There’s just enough space for the essentials. The tubular dimensions don’t really allow for transportation of large laptops or tablets although the compression straps can be undone to maximize space. Organization is made possible by the large main compartment and small zippered pocket on front.

AESTHETIC

The Night Rider is a sleek bag to say the least. In fact I think in some ways it might be too good looking for prolonged riding. That’s just because any long rides usually require performance cycling clothes and having a designer bag might seem out of place. Rather, I feel the Night Rider is best at home for casual rides around downtown. The all black construction deftly conceals the blemishes and scuffs from normal use. Chrome hardware contrasts nicely. I definitely get a Bruce Wayne vibe handling this piece!

CONCLUSION

WotanCraft’s Night Rider Sling Bag is another solid, good looking entry from the respected manufacturer. I feel the price is a little on the high side given the size of the bag. For someone who rides and wants an alternative to the typical nylon fanfare offered to cyclists, I feel this bag is a great option. WotanCraft offers free international free shipping which is a nice incentive.

WotanCraft is having a Christmas Special running until Dec. 31st. Orders over $150 USD will receive a free shock resistant lens wrap, just check their homepage for more.

October 30, 2016December 19, 2017

High On Leather Hiking Backpack Review – $138

Last year we published a review of High On Leather’s goat-leather satchel. It was one of our most hotly contested reviews–in fact, yours truly even got involved in the debate! High On Leather took the feedback to heart, and decided to start making some products in our beloved, tried-and-true cowhide, and created the full-grain Hiking Backpack. High On Leather has asked us to give their new and improved design a fresh look.

High On Leather was founded in 2013. Based in India, they’re striving to overcome the notion that quality leather needs to be expensive. High On Leather prides itself on using higher quality hides and tanning concepts than competitors, particularly in goat leather, which is infamous for often being cheap and smelling terrible. Thankfully, for this review, we can set the goat leather debate aside.

The cowhide used for the Hiking Backpack uses a tan that results in a crazyhorse type of leather; a gentle suede/nubuck feel to the touch, soft yet strong, with some distressing and pull-up aesthetically. The leather is unlined and reasonably thick through the main body and pockets. This is important especially at the base, which will likely take a fair amount of abrasive wear. The leather is quite a bit thinner on the shoulder and closure straps, however, which are the highest pull stress points of the bag. The shoulder straps use a layer of polyester lining on the underside, making them extremely grippy. This lining is also used on the flaps over each pocket.

If you’re wondering why I mention the use of lining, there are two big reasons. Since this lining is polyester, it won’t have the longevity of the leather, making it the “weakest link” of the product. It isn’t used in any load-bearing ways for the Hiking Backpack, but this brings me to my second point: such lining creates a thicker appearance, even though the strong leather that we want is actually much thinner than it appears.

Stitching is quality and uniform and the thread is fairly thick. No rivets are used. The hardware has so far held up well and appears to be made of quality metal.