Rossi Boots 343 Musk Boots for Women Review – USD $118

There may be a contender in my family as far as who ends up with the most boots. While I still enjoy a fairly healthy lead, my wife is coming on strong with her own collection. Recently she added a new style of boots to her ‘fashion arsenal’ from Australia’s Rossi Boots. This new addition is the Rossi 343 Musk Boots.

About

This is the second review we’ve done for Rossi Boots. Our first featured a pair of their men’s boots (which are awesome and will be featured in a follow up review shortly). Based in Adelaide, Australia Rossi Boots knows a thing or two about footwear design. They’ve been in the business since 1910. They’re well-known and extremely popular down under…and we’re trying to help people around our parts discover the awesomeness of their footwear.

Construction

The Musk Boots are made with full grain kip leather. Kip leather is a soft, luxurious cowhide. It’s often used in high-end baseball gloves because it offers superior flexibility while still retaining high tensile strength and durability. The color is claret (a deep brown with hints of red mixed in there). Designed as a work boot, they have also become a popular all day, fashionable boot. The V-cut design features a leopard print elastic fabric. The boot features Rossi’s signature air cushioned sole with a molded heel. A lighter, contrasting heavy duty thread is double stitched and provides a nice detail to the overall design.

Aesthetic

The Musk Boots are a completely new design for my wife. She’s never had a pull on boot in this style. When they came out of the box, she was immediately pleased with the color and style. While this is a traditional style of boots in Australia and many other areas around the world, it’s not a routinely seen boot here in the US. Her reaction after wearing them a few times is, “it’s a great style, works extremely well in just about any casual setting and with almost any pant style”. While they’re billed as a “work boot”, she uses them as a daily boot. And, they look great on her. She’s received lots of compliments from those at her office and the patients that she sees routinely. The style is not gaudy or over the top, even with the playful leopard print accent. In fact, it’s understated and the boots just exude a look of confidence, comfort, and a relaxed style.

Functionality

Comfort is king when it comes to any kind of footwear that is billed as having “all day comfort”. The Rossi Musk Boots certainly meet that claim. The air cushioned sole and soft leather definitely provide all day comfort. The elastic V-cut provides flexibility and proper “snug-ness” in fit. Sizing is spot on. Just remember, that it is UK based sizing, so be sure to refer to their sizing chart.

The finger loops on the front and back of the boots make them easy to slip on and off. The over ankle height is perfect and provides good stability when walking over any type of terrain. The sole is provides great grip and isn’t too ‘chunky’ in appearance. Probably one of the best features that she’s noted is the overall weight of the boots. They’re nice and light, which is a huge plus when you’re wearing boots in an all day situation.

Conclusion

My wife’s recommendation? “If you can find these in the US, get a pair.” All of the online retailers I’ve found that sell the 343 Musk Boots are located within Australia. When ordering, you may find the boots for much lower prices than the retail price listed here in the review – but, be prepared for some hefty shipping charges too. So, do your homework and find the best deal possible. At the USD $118 price, the 343 Musk Boots are definitely worth every penny. The leather quality, construction process, comfort, and durability will make you a Rossi Boots customer for life.

November 2, 2015December 19, 2017

Satchel & Page Suitcase Giveaway – $650 Value!

CONGRATULATIONS to Jose C., the very lucky winner of the Satchel and Page Suitcase Giveaway!

BestLeather is pleased to be partnering with Satchel & Page once again to bring you another great giveaway. This time around, we’re offering you a chance to win one of their brand new designs – the Suitcase! Be sure to follow the steps and enter to win. And, be sure to check out our full review of this awesome bag.

Satchel & Page Vintage Suitcase Giveaway – $650 Value!

November 2, 2015December 19, 2017

Satchel & Page Suitcase Review – $650

Travel is a wonderful thing. I enjoy traveling immensely and fortunately, get to do quite a bit of it each year for work and play. As many know, airline travel within the United States has changed dramatically over the past few years. With the ingenious [cough] decision to charge passengers for checked luggage, many people have turned to carry on only bags. Due to that change, the choices in luggage have been pretty static – small rolling bags and duffels pretty much dominate the space.

Satchel & Page, in an effort to continue creating unique leather products that tap into old, classic, proven designs while incorporating modern amenities, has developed their Suitcase. I’ve had the privilege of using this bag recently on an extended trip to Florida and California.

Behind the Design

BestLeather has reviewed several pieces from Satchel & Page, who is based in Austin, TX. You can read them here. When speaking with Daniel, one of the founders of Satchel & Page, this is what he told us about the new Suitcase:

“This is the headline bag of our new collection and it’s inspired by a suitcase my family still has that was used by my great grandparents when they immigrated to the US from Europe in the 1910s. That old suitcase is a family keepsake and we designed our new collection with that same character and longevity in mind. The other focus of the collection is on elegant design and functionality, which we feel is very well represented in this Suitcase.

We felt that the classic suitcase is a beautiful design that has been forgotten, basically because most suitcases don’t have the functionality and ease of use that we require nowadays. So we designed this suitcase from the ground up. The sides are reinforced so it holds its shape, but the front and back are soft which makes the bag comfortable to carry and air travel friendly. Our Suitcase also has a shoulder strap and converts to a backpack, which is super convenient for travel or daily commutes.”

Construction

The bag is made with 6 oz. vegetable tanned leather for the body of the bag, and 8-9 oz. leather for the handle and straps. The rivets are all solid copper. The heavy duty YKK zipper is a two-way design, allowing one entire side of the suitcase to open up. Inside the suitcase you’ll find an attractive tartan lining along with leather patches surrounding the zippered pockets and key clip. The Suitcase comes in deep brown, but they plan to offer black as a stretch goal in their current Kickstarter campaign.

Aesthetic

If you’re already a Satchel & Page fan, you’re definitely going to like the Suitcase. It matches all of their other pieces with the same colored leather, hardware details, and stitching.

The overall appearance of the bag reminds me of suitcases you see when watching movies depicting the early 1900s or viewing photographs from the same era. The Satchel & Page Suitcase has a similar look to some that my grandparents still used throughout the 1930s through the 1950s. The biggest differences from those old leather clad suitcases are: the adjustable shoulder strap, the large zipper, the side handle, and the ability to configure this suitcase to be carried as a backpack.

The dark brown leather is luxurious in both look and feel. The hardware and stitching all match with it to create a piece of luggage that is instantly recognized as custom and special. At roughly 20″ wide x 15″ tall x 7.5″ thick, it easily complies with airline carry on rules while still offering plenty of room to haul your essentials. Upon opening the bag, you’re greeted by the great looking tartan lining and leather accents. Inside you’ll find two slot pockets along the bottom that stay closed with elastic – very reminiscent of old school suitcases with the right section having a small key clip too. You’ll also find a thick leather strap used to cinch and secure items into place within the suitcase. The inside of the main flap also contains two flat zippered pockets for storing various items.

Functionality

My initial trip with the Satchel & Page Suitcase was a pretty lengthy one, but I thought it would be a fitting test of the bag. This trip involved leaving Spokane, heading to Florida to visit my middle son’s potential college of choice, spending a few days in various Disney parks with family, and then going on to a conference in Sacramento, California before heading home. All told, this trip was 11 days in length.

It took a bit of planning on what to pack and how to pack it, but this is what ended up making the cut:

1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of khakis, 3 pairs of shorts, 1 swimsuit
4 t-shirts, 3 henley shirts, and 2 polo shirts
4 pairs of calf length socks, 4 pairs of short ankle length socks
1 black leather belt, 6 pairs of boxers
1 pair of leather sandals, 1 pair of black wingtip dress shoes
1 hat
Adjustable shoulder straps that are used for the bag’s backpack carry option

I do use packing cubes when traveling to maximize my use of space. I used 4 cubes for this trip and it seemed to work out very well. Also, to give you some scale on the items packed – I’m not a small man. I am 6’5” and wear 3xlt shirts. A smaller, average sized person will definitely be able to pack more items into this bag without issue.

The Suitcase is an excellent carry on choice. I had zero issues in fitting this into the overhead bin on all of the flights for this trip. I also received comments upon boarding and exiting every one of my flights. This also occurred when picking up my rental car. The bag is definitely one of those unique pieces that people notice.

The only thing I found somewhat disappointing about the bag was the shoulder strap. The shoulder pad is a great size, but it is slippery. The bottom portion of the pad slipped off of my shoulder every time I attempted to carry it in this manner. Consequently, I ended up just carrying it from the top or side handle most of the time. Other times I slid the shoulder pad down to one end and carried it directly on my shoulder using just the strap. The strap is also not long enough for cross body carry (at least for me). The shoulder pad is a great size and looks nice; it just lacks the ability to have any grip. **UPDATE** The team at Satchel & Page is taking care of this issue in their production pieces by using a softer leather that is broken in so that the pad curves and better conforms to your shoulder when you carry the Suitcase. This should eliminate the slippage issue reported above.

Conclusion

At a price point of $650, the Satchel & Page Suitcase is expensive. It’s definitely an investment. But, it’s an investment that will last the rest of your life. In keeping with Satchel & Page’s dedication to quality, the bag is extremely well built, looks fantastic, and will serve regular or occasional travelers with panache and ease. It’s definitely a Buy It for Life item and comes highly recommended from me. If you act quickly, you can snag one for $495 and save some bucks during the Kickstarter.

October 30, 2015December 19, 2017

High On Leather Vintage Brown Messenger Bag Review — $85

When you have a nice leather product, people tend to notice. Same thing with a fresh haircut. But when they say, “Nice bag” (or “Nice haircut”), it usually isn’t actually a positive judgement. Instead, they’re simply saying they noticed. People noticed me carrying High On Leather’s Vintage Brown Leather Messenger Bag too, and they’d make that sort of non-judgemental comment. Then I’d say, “It’s east-Indian goat leather.” Then they’d raise their eyebrows as if to say, “Really?”—now making an actual judgement with an impressed expression. East-Indian goat leather sounds exotic, right? I think so too. That’s not the only cool thing about this bag either.

About High On Leather

The bag came to me all the way from India, where High On Leather is located. They’ve been shipping their products to customers worldwide for the last seven years. Their goal is to make high-quality leather products at unbelievably low prices—sometimes for as little as 60% of the prices of their competitors. If you like leather products but often find the prices too high, this is a vender you ought to check out.

Construction

As for the bag, the seams are close stitched, some of them double stitched. The inner lining is a rugged green canvas—reminding me of a World War II soldier’s accoutrements. The buckle, brads, and other metal components have a really solid feel, and I don’t doubt they’ll last as long as the leather.

Function

When you pick up the bag, you’ll immediately notice that it’s lightweight (goat leather tends to be thinner than cow leather). I suppose this could be a negative attribute—if you’re dangling for dear life from the bag’s strap off the edge of a cliff. But for the typical urban user, goat leather has plenty of toughness and will make for a long-lasting, durable companion. What’s more, the thinner leather is, as I said, lighter, and if you’re toting it around with you all day, that’s a very good quality.

I also appreciated the variety of pockets and compartments on the inside of the bag. The main compartment has several small ones on either side, including ones with zippers. If you’re the sort of person who cares about organization, you’ll love it. The top flap clasps down magnetically with two brass fasteners, and hearing them snap into place is kind of cool.

One negative note: when the bag is packed full, the flap doesn’t fall low enough to reach its clasps, and you have to tug it down a bit. This seemed like a slight design oversight, but it won’t be an issue if you’re carrying a lighter load. Also, because the leather is so thin, the framework is a little soft. Basically, this means it will not stand up on it’s own when empty—it keeps flopping over. However, when I have items inside, they keep the structure, and the bag stands like any briefcase might.

Aesthetic

If you’re a leather connoisseur, you may have heard that goat leather can have a strong smell. This is often true, but it’s only a correlation, not a causation. Goat leather can be produced at a lower cost than other leathers, so it tends to be used by people cutting corners. And if you cut corners on the tanning process, a foul odor can remain with the leather. But High On Leather pays close attention to the tanning process, and I didn’t have any olfactory problems with this bag. Granted it didn’t have the fine aroma that some leather has; it was more of a neutral smell.

The bag looks great too, comparable to any other you’d see on the market. But I guess I’ll let you make that judgement based on the photos.

BestLeather Conclusion

I really ought to make a point about the price. I’ve reviewed little wallets that cost more than High On Leather’s Vintage Brown Leather Messenger Bag. And I’ve seen numerous messenger bags that cost three times as much as this one. Basically, the price should be key in deciding whether this is the right product for you. If you enjoy leather products but the cost keeps you away, this is a great option. It’s real, affordable leather.

October 29, 2015November 14, 2019

TRAYVAX ELEMENT WALLET REVIEW – $79.99

Being on the review staff at BestLeather I’ve seen more wallets than the back pocket of a pair of Levi’s 501s. A lot of the wallets we review are high quality, expertly crafted pieces, but maintain the same general formula. When we got wind of the Trayvax Element in Canyon Red we immediately had try out the innovative design.

ABOUT

Trayvax was started in 2013 by Mark King. Originally setting out to develop a reusable plastic bag carrier, Mark ended up on a different course and created the Trayvax wallet. With an aim to produce the toughest most utilitarian wallet on the market, Trayvax uses top quality materials and all of their wallets are assembled here in the USA. When asked how the company started, we were told “In Mark’s apartment 2 years ago. We were powder coating every Trayvax wallet in the bathtub and sewing each product by hand.” That’s a far cry from their operation now consisting of over 30 employees. A good sign for us consumers, when a company is growing that rapidly, it means they’re doing something right!

CONSTRUCTION

“We use top grain leather that is custom dyed to shape-shift its color and oils. We use mil-spec grommets, spot welding, and sandblasted stainless steel on each wallet. They are flossed together, welded, and finished completely by hand to produce a seamless leather wallet.”

That was the impressive response we received from Trayvax when asking about their construction process for the Element. From the materials used, one might say it over engineered, but I think that is what Trayvax demanded of the Element. For instance, the paracord used to bind the wallet is mil-spec 550 which means it has a minimum load strength of 550lbs. The Element weighs about 3.8 oz empty and measures 4.5” Long X 2 ⅝” Tall. And the cherry on top, it’s made right here in the USA.

FUNCTION

While the Element is definitely innovative in design and function, it still adheres to the same basic principle of all wallets. It holds your cash and cards. The Element has great capacity in a smaller package. The initial instructions call for you to place all the cards you normally carry in the wallet along with a provided spacer card, then you soak it in warm water for 10 minutes to expedite the break in process. While this step isn’t necessary I recommend it as the cards will be very tight and hard to get at otherwise. Once broken in, card access is a breeze. The front opening in the leather lets your thumb quickly push out your cards.

The Element has a built in bottle opener for liberating your libations in a flash. You can attach a cord or clip to the grommet loop at the top if you want to carry the wallet around your neck or on your bag. I usually prefer these carry options because the Elements steel frame is pretty unyielding and can be uncomfortable in your back pocket when sitting. I really like the money clip which makes getting cash out less of a chore. Everything is secured in place by the horizontal leather flap that runs along it.

AESTHETIC

At first glance, one might guess at the purpose of the Element. Is it a tool? A weapon? I usually spend Saturday morning at local garage sales, so I have my wallet out often. The Trayvax Element definitely elicits impressive responses from people. You just feel cool whipping it out. It’s a great fidget device too, I like to just have it hand and feel the weight when waiting at appointments and such. The Element comes in several colors, we received the Canyon Red edition and the color is beautiful, like it was baked to perfection on a sandstone slab in the searing Utah summer heat.

CONCLUSION

The Trayvax Element is a great option for those who are tired of traditional wallets and want a new and interesting addition to their everyday carry. With bulletproof construction and superior machining and craftsmanship, you would do well to try one out.

October 28, 2015December 19, 2017

Dr Martens Made in England Weaver Shoes Review – $350

It’s always fun to find a shoe that can easily pull double duty. With the new Dr. Martens Weaver Made in England shoe, you get just that dual feature. The Weaver can easily be worn as a casual shoe. In fact, it is a great warm weather shoe due to the woven style and you’re encouraged to wear them sans socks. But, for those times when you need to up your fashion game slightly above ‘casual’, the Weavers are an excellent choice.

About

This is the second pair of Dr. Martens footwear that we’ve reviewed here. Read our review of their 1460 ForLife Boots here.

Dr. Martens is a cultural icon. They’ve been producing leather footwear for decades. Based in England, their impact on youth culture and beyond can be seen around the globe. They’re innovative, yet steeped in tradition – cutting edge but always paying tribute to their past. Dr. Martens is a brand that seems to cross multiple generations these days. You’re just as likely to see a 40 year old dude sporting a pair of Docs as you are an angst filled teen in one of their latest boot styles.

Construction

This pair of Dr. Martens is part of their Made In England series of footwear, which is crafted in their original Northhamptonshire factory. It’s made with what they call “Beaumont” analine calfskin leather on the upper. It’s soft and supple. The upper and sole are sewn together, not merely glued. Combined with their unique Z welt-stitch and heat-sealing process, makes it a unique process to Dr. Martens. This is the only construction that is stitched on the outside and helps footwear take the shape to the foot. The Goodyear welt is chain stitched to the upper and insole. The outsole is then sewn to the welt around the edge and then heat sealed to create a very sturdy, long wearing shoe. The sole is the original Dr. Martens air-cushioned sole, providing underfoot comfort and durability since 1960. It is oil- and fat-resistant, tough, and offers good abrasion and slip resistance.

Aesthetic

The Dr. Martens Weaver is a great looking shoe. The brogue inspired woven lacing is what really makes it a stand out shoe. It’s an attention getter and elicits comments and questions every time I step out in public with them.

The waxy black leather feels great to the touch. They feel great when wearing these barefoot too.

The contrast between the deep black color of the upper and the natural color of the welt sets the shoes off very nicely. Thin, waxed laces stay out of the way so as not to distract the eye from the unique laced/woven brogue patterns.

Not only is the lace pattern a nice feature on the top and sides of the shoe, but it does an excellent job of ventilation for your feet on those warmer days.

Function

These shoes are comfortable. That should go without saying since they’re Dr. Martens. Their legendary air-cushioned sole provides a cushy, comfortable experience for your feet. It’s a long lasting sole too so don’t be concerned there.

The only apparent drawback I can see with these shoes is they are limited to three seasons for me. Due to the lacing on the shoe, they will not perform well in cold, wet weather. If you live in Florida or California, you’ve got the ideal climate for year round usability with the Weavers.

I only point that out not to necessarily be a negative…just to say I won’t be wearing these again until next spring. And, that is unfortunate because these are some cool, stylish, comfortable shoes that give true all day comfort. But, I’ll be super excited to get them out when the seasons change again!

Conclusion

At $350 the Weavers are somewhat expensive. But, they certainly meet the “you get what you pay for” adage. Attention to detail on these shoes is fantastic. The build quality is excellent. The styling and versatility make them unique standouts. You’ll wear them for many, many seasons. So, they’re definitely worth the initial investment. Your feet will be happy…and you’ll be happy because you’re going to like the way you look with the Weavers on your feet.

October 27, 2015December 19, 2017

Floto Imports Firenze Dowell Briefcase Review – $449

Recently I was out looking at motorcycles, one of those “maybe this is the month I buy one” type of things, and as always, one particular brand held my attention captive – Aprilia. The salesman, sly man that he was, must have noticed my jaw ajar and said something that I absolutely loved – “It’s just got that special Italian magic.” I’m reminded of that phrase every time I look at Floto Imports Firenze Dowell Briefcase. Available from the Floto Imports’ online store, the briefcase comes in Vecchio Brown, Olive Brown, or Black. In this case, I’ve had the pleasure of keeping the Black version with me as my daily bag. The Firenze Dowell joins the other briefcases in the collection as a welcomed addition to the aesthetic and feel of the Floto line.

ABOUT FLOTO IMPORTS

We have been fortunate to review several great pieces from Floto Imports over the past year or so. You can read those reviews here. Floto Imports was established in 2003 and is based in Brooklyn, NY. All of their products are manufactured in Italy with the philosophy, “older is better”. According to the Floto website, “Our mission is to refine old world craft methods to produce pieces that are superior to mass-produced luggage. Top grade Italian calfskins and natural, vibrant fabrics come together to create timeless and iconic styles.”

AESTHETIC

We’re at the point, in the ebb and flow of trends, that favors the “rugged” look in American fashion, and it’s this precise reason that makes the Firenze stand out so much. This isn’t a mountain man’s bag, this is the bag of a gentleman. The polished black calfskin leather looks as sleek as it does refined, and the clean lines and stainless steel hardware finish out the look in a way that demands a second glance. I use this bag every day, and I can honestly say that I feel like dressing up my wardrobe to finish what the bag starts every time I put it over my shoulder. It would look as good with a three piece suit as it does with nice jeans and oxfords.

FUNCTION

As you’d expect from a briefcase, this bag has plenty of room for my documents, books, and personal effects. Currently I’m using it for two reference books, a documents folio, and two notebooks, but I could easily fit a laptop in there too should the need arise. There’s a main compartment for the bulk of the storage, with a zippered pouch, and the smaller but functional front pocket has spots for pens, a phone, and business cards with room to spare. It’ll hold everything you need it to in a way that is simple and effective.

CONSTRUCTION

Despite its sleek, simple look, the bag is crafted sturdily. Built in Italy, the stitching is clean, precise, and well executed. The same could be said of the hardware: the stainless steel looks and feels sturdy, and provides no room for worry. The strap is detachable by means of clips, which feel as reliable as the rest of the hardware. The lock on the front is one of my favorite parts of the bag. Made by Amiet, a Swiss company specializing in hardware for leather products, the lock is sturdy and simple, utilizing a small key for operation. If you don’t need to lock the bag, the mechanism acts as a simple method of securing it, and can be operated by pulling the switch down. With weeks of steady use I see no signs of weakness from any of the bag’s features: again, this is a product that has as much function as it does form, and that’s saying something.

CONCLUSION

For a price that is well under what similar designer bags would cost, Floto Imports has created a briefcase that will complement anything you wear, capable of dressing up a pair of jeans with oxfords (though you may feel this bag deserves a suit). Sleek, simple, timelessly classy. It’s a bag that I’m not only happy to carry, but that carries what I need in a way that makes my old messenger bag seem barbaric by comparison. Put simply, the Firenze Dowell Briefcase has that special Italian magic.

October 26, 2015December 19, 2017

Jaunji Designs Explorer Rolltop Backpack – $173 on Kickstarter

Jaunji Designs, a small design studio out of Vancouver, British Columbia, recently launched a Kickstarter campaign for their new Explorer Bag. We got our hands on one of these Explorer bags a few months ago. The version we received was a prototype and it seems that a few things have already been improved since that time. Here are our thoughts on the Jaunji Designs Explorer Rolltop Backpack.

ABOUT JAUNJI

“We are a quality driven lifestyle brand and we believe that our designs/products should be simple, functional and lasting – We will never settle for anything less! Our team compasses decades of experience in the creative and design fields. We strive to design with functional features and use the best materials available. Our aim is to create products that make everyday life more enjoyable.
As we evolve to perfection as a young company that symbolizes the approach – “more than meets the eye” – our goal is to bring you products that are just as unique as you.”

CONSTRUCTION

The Explorer Rolltop Backpack is made of vegetable tanned full grain goat leather. Goat leather is naturally water resistant, making it useful for everyday products. Goat leather is softer than some of the other leathers due to the presence of lanolin wax. Goat hide is lighter than cowhide and is more supple requiring little break in time. The downside is that it can be less sturdy – some of the leather on the closure straps stripped off upon my first real use of the bag because there is not much room for the straps to slide through the hardware. It is, however, reinforced at the seams and stress points like the buckle closures. In addition, some of the stitching around the mouth is a bit uneven, but not noticeable unless you’re looking closely. Previous experience with goat leather from some of our reviewers has elicited comments about adverse smells from the tanning process. In this case, the Explorer pack does not emit an adverse odor at all, which is great. The texture and color of the goat leather is great and it will definitely darken with time and use to develop a unique patina.

The Explorer features brass YKK zippers and brass finished metal hardware. The metal hardware hasn’t failed on me but it feels a little light weight. Again, this could be due to the fact that this is a prototype and hardware choices may have changed and been upgraded since then for the production pieces.

FUNCTION

The top closure straps run right over the shoulder straps when the top is open, making for a very ergonomic and natural design. There’s lots of padding in the main section of the bag, enough to protect fragile cameras or electronics. There’s also a padded laptop sleeve. The straps and fit of the bag feels comfortable on my shoulders, even when relatively full of stuff. The straps are thick and padded, making them quite comfortable and less of a hassle to put on.

There is a slot pocket for an umbrella, as well as several lash points for other gear on the bottom and main body of the bag. These tie-down points and straps make the bag very customizable for whatever purpose you have in mind. The rolltop makes the bag expand from 14″ to 20″ inches, so it can fit quite a lot if you need it to. I hope Jaunji Designs will come out with matching straps that can be used to accessorize the Explorer in time.

The interior is lined with a thick, medium brown colored fabric. It feels good to the touch and will certainly aid in protecting whatever treasures you store inside of it. It does create a dark cavern, so you’ll need to fish inside for your items, but that’s pretty normal for most backpacks of any style. The quick access document/tablet pouch is a nice touch. It’s secure, but quickly accessible due to the large zipper on the pack.

AESTHETIC

Everyone likes the look of this bag; I get compliments on it from everyone who has seen it. Jaunji Designs pulled off the rolltop look very well. The bag tapers nicely and doesn’t look scrunched; it’s definitely an ideal and classic design that can open up or be strapped down however you like.

CONCLUSION

The Jaunji Designs Explorer Rolltop Backpack is very aesthetically pleasing and its Kickstarter price is right. There are still a few spots left on the Kickstarter campaign. The Explorer is extremely aesthetically pleasing and its design is quite useful. You shouldn’t plan on it lasting you forever, but $175 is a reasonable price for a great looking bag that you’ll enjoy and find useful for several years to come.

October 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Range Leather Announces Kickstarter

Range Leather, from Spokane, Washington, recently launched their Kickstarter campaign on October 7th to introduce their newest offering, the Range Mug. Their campaign runs through November 6th, and while it has already exceeded its original goal, they’re looking to their “stretch goals” to be able to offer additional enhancements and features customers have been asking for. Kyle Koster, owner and creator of the company, put it best with this direct quote from their campaign:

“Our latest endeavor at Range Leather Co. was to design the most versatile drinking container to accompany any adventure. Our goal was to combine an everyday product with the timeless look and vintage feel of genuine leather. The Range Mug is built from the finest 10 oz Horween leather, secured with Chicago screws and is hand stitched to fit around a wide mouth Mason Jar. “

Range Leather Co. believes that working with your hands is a respectable trade, so that’s what they do. Range is dedicated to creating timeless products, guaranteed to wear in and not out.

The Range Mug insulates against both hot and cold liquids allowing you to enjoy a variety of beverages such as coffee, tea, water, soft drinks, sweet tea and beer. From camping to business meetings, you’re sure to find that the Range Mug is the ideal beverage container.

The Range Mug is offered until November 6th on Kickstarter for 30% OFF the retail price to any backer willing to help this project off the ground. That means acquiring a Range Mug for just $22 on their campaign site. Having nearly reached their first stretch goal, the project will soon release both brown and black leather to go with their natural color.

You can find out more about everything Range Leather offers on their web site or by visiting their Instagram page.

October 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Buffalo Jackson Everett Leather Camera Bag Review – $149.95

Buffalo Jackson sells a multitude of your classic leather goods – wallets, belts, and briefcases. Today we will take a look at a more unique leather item – the Everett Leather Camera Bag specifically designed to carefully hold your camera and accessories.

CONSTRUCTION

The Everett series of bags including this camera bag are made in India using goat leather tanned through their local traditional tanning and processing techniques. Goat leather is significantly thinner than traditional cow leather making it more pliable and lighter which is good for the back. The downsides to using thinner, softer leather means the leather is more prone to damage and tears particularly if not regularly conditioned or maintained (I have personally experienced this multiple times). This particular bag appears relatively well made for an Indian goat leather bag. All edges are double stitched and the strap hardware seems to be a bit larger gauge and sturdier than what I traditionally see in these imported goat bags from India or Pakistan. The hardware is made of brass and zinc. Potential areas of weakness and breakdown are the single-layered leather loops to which the strap clips and the fact that the straps are made from multiple pieces of leather sewn together end-to-end. The bag measures approximately 12 x 9 x 5 ½ inches.

FUNCTION

The Everett Leather Camera Bag has a full cushion padded interior that can be removed. There are extra built-in overlying Velcro padded flaps to help hold everything in place even if the bag is turned upside down. The removable padded interior appears to be made of a velour-like fabric to help cuddle your valuables. There are also a surprising number of additional compartments including an external open compartment and an external zippered pocket. Internally there is an additional open pocket and a zippered pocket. I was able to easily fit my camera, light diffuser, and flash into the padded cushions with additional space for cables, accessories, and a lens. The padded compartment can also be removed for extra space and to transform the bag into a more versatile carry-all style.

AESTHETIC

The Everett Leather Bag comes in the standard natural goat leather color which is described by Buffalo Jackson as “Camel.” The leather and hardware already have that distressed look with variable patina which helps bring that “vintage” look to the bag. The green canvas interior is a nice natural color contrast with the leather. Although the color and look of goat leather is great, one of the downsides to anyone who has experienced these types of bags is the smell associated with the local tanning techniques. Though visually appealing, these bags have a sharp pungent smell that I can best describe as a blend of vinegar with a hint of cat urine that is more noticeable in closed spaces like a car or closet. Wash your hands after heavy use and don’t expect to be using this bag as a makeshift pillow during a camping expedition.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Buffalo Jackson Everett Camera Bag is a fair purchase at $149.95. It is surprisingly detailed in design with excellent cushioning for a goat leather-style bag. Your back will thank you for not having to lug around unnecessary poundage in addition to your camera equipment. Like most imported goat bags, be prepared that the “leather smell” is not going to be the same as an American cowhide bag. The thinner leather is also more prone to failing at stress points, particularly with the rotational stresses placed at the flat strap loops, but these Buffalo Jackson bags come with a 3 year manufacturing warranty so don’t be afraid to enjoy your bag on your expeditions – just don’t go crazy.

October 22, 2015December 19, 2017

WaterField Designs Field Tote Review – $119

To quote Ezra Koenig of indie rock band Vampire Weekend, “I find it hard to choose which tote to take out into the world. All those hours spent staring into my tote nook – I can’t get them back.”

I feel you, Ezra. There’s so many great totes out there, it’s tough to decide sometimes. Let’s take a look at the WaterField Designs Field Tote, made of waxed canvas and full grain leather.

ABOUT WATERFIELD DESIGNS

WaterField Designs was founded in 1998 by Gary Waterfield, who now leads the design process at his San Francisco workshop. Each product is designed and manufactured in small batches by artisans at the WaterField production center in San Francisco, CA.They make everything from gadget sleeves to handsome tote bags to Surface Pro covers, and their small, local operation allows them to quickly get multiple styles and sizes up and running (like sleeves for both Apple and Android devices), and they also crank out covers for random electronics like the Apple Superdrive, Apple TV, or even your wireless keyboard. From their website:

“We cut out the clutter with simple and focused design. We are mindful of how bags hang on your body, how cases protect your devices, and making them lightweight and easily accessible. Customers also influence what we make. Our most popular products came from customers requesting a certain feature, bag, or case.”

AESTHETIC & CONSTRUCTION

The Field Tote is made of beautiful waxed canvas with full-grain veg-tanned leather as trim. The body of the tote is 14″ by 8″ by 4″ wide. The front pocket has a leather and metal closure that stays nice and snug. There is also a metal key ring on the outside for clipping on your keys with ease. A small zippered pocket hangs in the interior of the bag.

The waxed canvas is beautiful and textured, and its distressed look adds a unique element to the bag’s aesthetic. The waxy brown pullup leather is stitched with sturdy nylon. The leather is simple, attractive, and compliments it well. The Field Tote comes in brown, burgundy, and navy, which is mine. A word of warning to dog and cat owners: The waxy canvas on this tote picks up and retains fur like no other, so consider purchasing this bag in the lighter brown color if your furry friends like to shed.

FUNCTION

The design of the Field Tote was thought through very thoroughly. It is made to be entirely collapsible, so you can put your bag in a bag for extra carry space while traveling. The sides of the bag also have a subtle gusset effect so the bag lays flat when it’s empty or doesn’t have much in it. This means that it can expand to hold quite a bit when necessary – it’s easy to pack a couple sweaters in there without them spilling out. This makes the Field Tote quite versatile and a great bag to use (or pack) for a trip.

The straps are long and comfortable, and the bag is a perfect size and light weight for carrying anywhere. With a strap drop of approximately 9.75″, it’s easy to set this up on your shoulder and carry it. There is a nice amount of pockets to hold smaller items. The outside pocket is perfect for storing your phone so you don’t have to dig around for it in the bag.

CONCLUSION

The Waterfield Designs Field Tote is a great tote. At $119, it’s also pretty affordable for a full-grain waxed canvas tote made in the United States. This is a great choice if you are looking for something compact and versatile. It looks and feels like a high-end bag, but with a reasonable price point. Its modern and stylish, but won’t go out of style any time soon.

October 21, 2015December 19, 2017

A Simple Leather Belt Co. Essential Wallet Review – $79

From A Simple Leather Belt Co. comes a simple leather…WALLET? Yes. Today, we are reviewing the Essential Wallet by A Simple Leather Belt Co. (ASLB). Made with the same principles used in all their leather belts, the ASLB Amish leatherworkers have put together a sturdy, no-frills wallet for the practical gentleman

CONSTRUCTION

The leather used in the Essential Wallet is 100% full-grain vegetable-tanned cowhide, cut and assembled together in Ohio by Amish leatherworkers. The leather is 3.5oz which keeps the wallet feeling slim yet sturdy. The nylon stitching is guaranteed for 10 years. Inside, it uses perhaps the most tried-and-true design of any wallet – four card pockets, two internal pockets, and one cash pocket. This adds up to 8 individual panels of leather used to create this wallet. The wallet measures 4 3/8 inches by 3 ¼ inches. Empty it is 3/8 of an inch wide.

FUNCTION

This wallet holds cash and cards just as well as the next wallet. It is really simple and practical and the stitching is guaranteed for 10 years. What else needs to be said?

AESTHETIC

This simple wallet is surprisingly elegant. The leather inside and outside is uniformly polished – smooth and flawless. In the scotch color (I’m in a bit of a lighter leather craze right now) it seems to have the best potential to collect a variegated darker patina unique to its owner. The other darker color options, Havana, bourbon, and black, seem more resistant to color-changing patina. This wallet has definitely caught the attention of the people I work and hang out with. Ironically, when a product has a simple basic design, all perfection or any imperfection really stands out and I can’t find anything wrong with this one.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The A Simple Leather Belt Co. Essential Wallet comes in at a bit of a higher price of $79 when compared to the mass-produced leather wallets often found in discount clothing chains, but quality is a huge selling point here. Impeccably made by genuinely experienced American craftsman, the Essential Wallet is perfect for someone looking to add some subtle, long-lasting class and refinement to their collection of leather goods.

October 20, 2015December 19, 2017

Colsen Keane Minimalist Standard Leather Satchel in Crazy Horse Review – $695

I flew into Charlotte, North Carolina, at the beginning of this year on my way to visit some family in Valdese. At that time, I hadn’t heard of ColsenKeane or their passion for crafting enduring, rugged leather products, nor did I know they are based in Charlotte. To my chagrin for not having found this growing company earlier, I was also delighted to be asked to review their Minimalist Standard Leather Satchel in Crazy Horse.

Saint Ambrose was right when he said “where a man’s heart is, there is his treasure also” – this is a company that loves what they create, and creates what they love. I always have an initial impression and reaction when I first view and hold a leather product. After carefully photographing the packaging (it was nicely done) on receiving the satchel, I unwrapped it like an early birthday gift.

Quite honestly, I’ve not seen another leather satchel that immediately overawed me as this one did, and still does. Think Pony Express meets Sam Elliott (Tombstone, 1993) to get a sense of the rugged individuality and good looks this bag conveys.

About Colsen Keane

I had a chance to talk at length with Scott Hofert, creator and owner of ColsonKeane, about his vision and products for the present and the future. As Scott put it, educated customers are the best customers. A self-admitted leather junkie, he’s been crafting unique leather ideas into reality for the last 8 years. While not an artist by trade, having worked in the non-profit sector for years, Scott’s passion for quality leather goods and vision for seeing niches in the leather industry that need to be filled have driven ColsenKeane to become the growing success it is today.

Reflected in his products is his love for the beefier (no pun intended) leather hides found in many of the products they produce. He understands that these types of hides retain their constitution and will last a lifetime, a guarantee he puts behind all of his products. And the way he came up with the name for his company? You’ll just have to ask Scott; he’ll welcome you into their store the next time you stop over in Charlotte.

Construction

The name of the bag is shrouded in a bit of mystery – why “Crazy Horse” Leather? Scott intimated that its origin may lie with the gentleman from whom he purchases the hides for the satchel. What is not a mystery is the construction of the bag itself: full grain cowhide measuring 3.9 mm thick held together by copper rivets and a waxed polyester thread that would be suitable for stitching sails on a main mast.

The satchel is one solid piece of hide, except for the sides, which are stitched in to help the bag keeps its shape throughout your lifetime of owning this product. The benefit of a bag that retains its shape is better protection of the contents inside versus something that may soften too much over time.

The D-rings, snap swivels, and buckles are all heavy duty pre-distressed nickel plated steel that add to the rugged look of the leather. He’ll also be the first to admit the bag is over-engineered, an intentional design element. I couldn’t see it designed any other way after having a few weeks with it. The double-stitched thread holding the sides in is the only stitching on the bag, the rest held by the copper rivets.

Function

Need to carry a laptop up to 17″ along with your important files? This satchel will do the trick. If you want to carry accessories including your wallet, phone, a couple pens and some bank cards, you’ll want to go for the optional leather insert.

The leather insert is cleverly designed to not only minimize the interior space it uses, but will also allow you to put documents behind it. It’s an excellent conservation of space in a layout that is already generous.

The adjustable carry strap looks great when added to the bag, and adds an important element of functionality when you choose to sling the bag across your shoulder. I prefer carrying the bag cross-shoulder as it leaves my hands free to carry my morning coffee, a phone, or to stick them in my pockets on a cold day.

Aesthetic

Let’s get this out of the way: the satchel is a beautiful, over-constructed piece of craftsmanship that is difficult to not fall in love with. This satchel has a tendency to slow me down wherever I go. I don’t mind though; people see it and want to stop and comment on its beauty, or where I got it. The longer you own and use this bag, the more unique it will become, the look tailored to the experiences of your life.

I asked Scott specifically about the copper rivets, and yes, they are extremely difficult to find. His philosophy is that they are not only beautiful and will develop a beautiful patina over time, but that he eschews shiny metal on bags that would have an otherwise rugged look. However, as copper is too soft for the buckles and d-rings, he went with a distressed nickel look that fits right in.

The straps holding the bag closed are thick and perfectly sized for the buckles and add to the rugged look of the bag. Even after only a few weeks, I’ve noticed the scratching on the leather doesn’t detract to the bag, but gives it character you won’t see anywhere else.

The Final Word

Everything about this satchel indicates love of, and pride in, your craft. With the purchase of your Minimalist Standard Leather Satchel in Crazy Horse coming in at a $695.00 retail, you’d better be serious about your love of leather and those goods crafted to last a lifetime. If you’re just looking for a serviceable bag that is nothing special, this isn’t the one for you

As if their available product line isn’t enough, you always have the option to stop by their shop in Charlotte and talk to Scott about custom designing a leather piece that reflects you and your lifestyle.

Scotch whisky, also known as uisge beatha or “water of life”, is best when aged and enjoyed for what it is: a product of craftsmen with a love for the process and product. This satchel is no different. I predict that this bag will age with you, accumulating the wealth of knowledge and experience that is your life. While I have only had possession of this bag for a few weeks, the quality and aesthetic have spoken, and that is what I heard.

Scott and his team are not only artisans, but they want to share their love of the craft and philosophy of doing what you love with others. In addition to the 200-plus product concepts Scott keeps tucked away in his notebook, he hinted at offering a multi-day “leather experience” to teach the craft and business of leather working. His idea came about as a result of area businessman coming into the store and finding themselves drawn to the lifestyle and passion everyone at ColsenKeane exhibits through their craftsmanship and eagerness to share what they do.

If you want a high-quality, thoughtfully designed satchel that will (and is guaranteed to last you a lifetime), you’ll want to start here. Educate yourself on their products through the numerous videos and articles available online, and you won’t be disappointed.

October 19, 2015December 19, 2017

Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. Leather Sunglass Straps Review – $27.95

Buffalo Jackson Trading Company is all about the American values and style which any rugged gentleman would have. Their Leather Sunglass Straps in medium whiskey is a clean stylish way to keep any guy looking effortlessly cool, even in a wind tunnel.

CONSTRUCTION

These medium-sized sunglass straps are made with a single strip of 100% full grain cowhide measuring 15 ½ inches long and 7/8 of an inch wide. On the outside, the Buffalo Jackson logo is proudly center displayed in bold capital letters. On the inside, there is a thin layer of pigskin lining glued and sewn together with dark brown nylon stitching which travels along the entire border of the strap. A debossed stamp on the inside declares its country of origin as “Old Mexico” which must mean… Mexico. The leather smells fantastic like a good piece of leather should.

FUNCTION

These straps do what they’re supposed to do. They keep your sunglasses on your neck. The strap wraps relatively close to most heads with about a 2-inch margin of free space. I much prefer this than to those cotton or nylon lanyard straps that flop way back and irritate your neck. On maximum pull between my two hands, there is very little stretch which is likely due to the pigskin lining. When putting the straps onto my basic Ralph Lauren sunglasses, they hold on to the arms well with good snug tension and don’t fall off even if I swing the sunglasses around a bit. They do come off easily enough with a little force. I haven’t used it long enough to test the long-term stretch of these straps but the pigskin seems like a very tight no-stretch lining so I am going to assume these will last longer than my glasses.

AESTHETIC

The look of these straps holds true to the rugged gentleman goals of Buffalo Jackson. The width and large branding of this leather will keep these straps for the more casual outing to the beach, hiking, or fishing, whereas I see the slimmer Elkton strap on the website better suited for the polo or golf game. The colors of the nylon, pigskin, and leather are all near identical and the leather will lend itself to some pretty sweet patina overtime through rain, sweat, and hand oils. This strap is “Whiskey” color and there is a darker “Dark Walnut” option as well.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. Leather Sunglass Strap is a good buy at $27.95 for those looking for a versatile go-to strap. With minimal care, this casual accessory will definitely last a while and look better with abuse. Pick the XL size for Rayban Wayfarers or other XL sunglasses.

October 16, 2015December 19, 2017

Brace Leather Announces Kickstarter

Brace Leather, out of Montreal, has recently announced their nearly-funded Kickstarter. Founder Yann Berube writes:

“The idea for Brace came from our desire for a cohesive line of quality leather goods that would simplify working or studying on the go. We wanted these goods to be well designed, well-made and with long-lasting, quality materials that look good too. Enter Collection 001: Man Overboard, Essential Leather Accessories designed for life on the go and delivered in one simple kit.”

This first collection was based on the founders’ personal lifestyle and made for people who live and work on the go. All their leather goods are made by hand in limited runs, using full grain leather, in their Montreal studio.

But this is just the beginning. The plan is to expand the idea and begin a series of collaborations with creatives and entrepreneurs. Imagine a kit of essential leather goods made specifically for the Photographer, the Artist or the Chef. The goal is to partner with their favourites in each field and create a kit of essentials specific to the profession and lifestyle.

The products offered in their Kickstarter include snaps, key rings, card holders, laptop sleeves, and charger holsters. You can create the Man Overboard kit for just $248 USD, which saves you about $100 USD.

You can find more about us on Brace Leather’s website or Instagram.

October 15, 2015December 19, 2017

Iron & Resin Elk Bobber Gloves Review – $72

Riding motorcycles is definitely one of my favorite things in this world. There is nothing like hopping on my bike and cruising in to town or hitting some twisties. Every motorcyclist knows that he/she needs several things before they are truly prepared to ride. A helmet, protective jacket, and a solid pair of gloves are the three items, in my opinion, that are essential to every rider. Today we are going to check out the Iron & Resin Elk Bobber Gloves.

About

“Born in a small, Southern California, blue-collar beach town, graced with world class point breaks and seaside racetracks, where ghosts of a once towering oil industry still linger in the shadows. Iron & Resin is the brainchild of several friends who, after decades of collective experience building successful clothing brands, decided to turn back the clock and start anew. The result is a small, hand built collection of goods that draws heavily upon the founder’s own lifestyles and experiences.

Forged in California… In a mass produced, disposable world, Iron & Resin is a product of “one-off” culture. Where men still build, by their own hands, the craft they ride, be it water or land. Our goods are carefully hand crafted and printed one at a time in California.”

Construction

My motorcycle is all black. Both of my riding jackets are all black. My helmet is all black. It only makes sense that I ride with black leather gloves. The stylish Elk Bobber gloves are constructed from black 100% Premium Grain Elk Hide leather. With only three main components: the leather, stitching, and metal anchor piston rivet; the Elk Bobber gloves are very simple. Their simple design, rolled cuff, and no-nonsense feel are my favorite things about them. Iron & Resin has done an excellent job combining performance, comfort, and durability into this attractive leather glove.

Function

The Elk Bobber gloves have been my primary riding gloves for several months now. The comfort level is far above any other riding gloves I have worn. The seams do not bug my fingers or rub them raw, I have adequate squeezing range of motion, and the length is suitable for wearing under a jacket and also comfortably without one. I have encountered one small issue with these stunning gloves. After longer periods of use, the black dye in the leather rubs off into your hands, and is frequently difficult to remove. To many this may seem petty, but if I’m going to show up to meetings or work, I cannot have black all over my hands. Over time the severity has significantly decreased, but know that it is something you will have to adjust to/prepare for during the beginning of the Elk Bobber’s life.

Aesthetic

As I said before, the Elk leather is some of the softest, most comfortable leather I have worn. The gloves have already formed to my hands and started to develop the worn, masculine look. I have several riding friends who have tried these gloves out, and even purchased some themselves. They are truly an attractive, solid addition to any motorcyclist’s riding gear, whether they ride a street bike like myself, or a classic Harley.

Conclusion

It is obvious that passion, time, and superior materials went in to the making of the Iron & Resin Elk Bobber gloves. Even though the gloves do leave a few black marks during the “new” stage, it is a small price to pay for such, comfortable, attractive, and capable leather gloves. At $72.00, the Elk Bobber is a reasonable investment that will absolutely last a lifetime of riding. Head over to Iron & Resin’s website to check out their other leather gloves, and even some other hand built lifestyle goods.

October 14, 2015December 19, 2017

Conestoga Leather Amia Tote Review – $269

The name Amia in French means “beloved.” Conestoga Leather bestowed this name upon their Leather Amia Tote because they hope it will become your favorite bag. Beloved. Let’s see if it lives up to the name.

About Conestoga Leather

Maryland-based Conestoga Leather features craftsmanship by the Amish community nestled in the Maryland area and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Their handmade product line, which includes folios, bags, and valet trays, has a heavy focus on functionality and design. Their main focus is on luxury portfolios, one of which we recently reviewed– “The Professional” Folio.

From their website: “Our goal is to offer quality, American made products that are handcrafted by artisans. We desire to be fairly priced but realize that we do not have the advantages of large companies who build items by the tens of thousands. Our products are often crafted one at a time.“

The Leather

Conestoga Leather exclusively uses North American bison hides that are tanned in the U.S. The Amia Tote is made of thick full grain bison hide, inside and out. The leather is both durable and beautiful. Bison hide always has that distinct rustic grain that separates it from cowhide, so you can immediately tell that this tote isn’t your everyday cow leather bag.

The bag comes in five color options – Mocha, Ocean Blue, Peanut, Red Rock Canyon, and Saddle. My Amia Tote is “Peanut” colored, a pleasant nutty brown that complements the bison leather grain well.

Construction & Function

The Amia Tote is pretty simply constructed, with two sturdy copper rivets attaching each end of the long tote handles, which have about a 12″ drop length. This gives the tote nice long straps that allow you to carry it over your shoulders comfortably. The copper rivets create a metallic pop that adds visual interest to the bag.

At 12″ x 10″ x 4″ the bag is on the smaller side. It comfortably fits everything you would fit in a standard purse, but don’t expect to fit anything much bigger than an iPad in there. There are leather slot pockets on both sides of the bag, which are about 5″ deep and run across the width of the tote. These are sturdy and good for collecting the little items you don’t want rolling around the bottom of your tote.

The top of the bag is closed with a nice strong magnetic clasp, which effectively holds the thick leather together.

Aesthetic

The Amia tote is beautiful. The quality of the bison leather is very high. It’s one of those bags that you like to touch and feel. It’s sturdy thanks to the thickness of the leather. The deep grain comes through nicely in the peanut color I requested and received. It’s one of those bags that gets noticed right away too. So, be prepared for questions, comments, and “can I feel it?”…because it will happen.

Conclusion

The Conestoga Leather Amia Tote is a versatile bag that is quickly becoming “beloved.” If you’re looking for value, this is probably not the tote for you, as this is a luxury item handmade in the U.S. with top-notch materials. But, if you’ve got the money, the Amia tote won’t disappoint and will provide many, many years of great service.

October 12, 2015December 19, 2017

Wilsons Leather Roma Leather Tote w/Bar Review – $179.99

As an admirer of all things leather, I can appreciate the value in a quality leather product even when I see the product is intended for a different audience. I’m also someone who values the contentedness of a happy home. Thus, when given the opportunity to review the Wilsons Leather Roma Leather Tote, my wife was ecstatic, and I was grateful for the chance.

As an expert in all things fashion, specifically purses and shoes, I knew I would need my wife’s objective opinion to give this tote a thorough review. As the product tester, her insight into the function and aesthetics of this bag were invaluable.

About Wilsons Leather

The Minnesota-based Wilsons Leather, formed in 1988 by a merging of Bermans Leather and Wilsons House of Suede and Leather, is a modern day leather clothing and apparel retailer known famously for their jackets, bags, and accessories.

In 2008, the G-III Apparel Group purchased Wilson’s Leather and E-commerce divisions. Today, Wilsons Leather offers in-season, designer products at their outlet stores. Their online stores offer an even more extensive line of products in addition to increasing brand awareness and improving customer experience.

On a more personal note, my wife and I have been visiting the Wilsons Leather Outlet in North Bend, Washington, each time we take a trip to the west side of Washington from our home in Spokane.

Construction

The leather in this bag is sourced from India and is semi-vegetable tanned cowhide dyed red (the bag itself comes in three color selections at Wilsons Leather online) and is held together by non-contrast polyester thread and SPS zippers. The gold-colored bar across the top contrasts the red color and doesn’t interfere with the top zipper closure. Dual carry handles on the bag are attached to the tote with gold hardware that is sturdy and attractive. Weighing in at 2.2 lbs (1kg) with stitched-in sides, this bag is going to hold its constitution (shape) regardless of what you choose to carry in it. At 16″ x 12″ x 4.25″, you’ve got over 800 cubic inches of storage space, more than enough space to store all but the proverbial kitchen sink.

Having purchased Wilsons Leather purses in the past, my wife noted that the black beading on the carry handles has a tendency to come loose after repeated use. The beads appear mostly cosmetic, though they do function to give the straps grip when carrying it on your shoulder, so it is something to keep in mind.

On the outside of the bag, you’ve got one zippered pocket for carrying those odds and ends you can’t live without, while the inside of the bag shows a large interior pocket suitable for tablets, large wallets, and other devices bordered by another zippered pocket and two open pockets. The two open pockets are sized for carrying a smart phone or similar device.

Function

I interviewed my wife for this portion of the review and she shared some very candid opinions with me, as she has done throughout our marriage. She found that both the carry strap and handles fit comfortably over her shoulder. How she carried it depended on the wardrobe she was wearing that day. You’ll find the bag does not easily slip off your shoulder due to the black rubber beading in the carrying handles and straps.

The inside and outside pockets were convenient for storage, as she put in her phone, notepads, and various sundries a business professional might need on any given day.

While the bag itself lends the user a sleek and professional look, she encountered one issue with the design: the bag opening is far narrower width of the rest of the bag. This led to her not being able to see to the bottom of the purse. Smaller items got lost in the bottom of the bag and were difficult to find at a moment’s notice. However, the design does lend itself well to carrying files, small laptop computers, and tablets, which is what she mainly used it for.

Aesthetic

The design, as she stated, is highly professional, and made for a business woman with a sense of style. The gold-colored hardware combined with the rich red color of the leather is a striking combination that promotes sophistication and elegance with the right wardrobe. As will all accessories, the shape is an important part of the appeal. With the stitched in ends of the bag, you have a tote that will hold its shape for years. This tote will work best with a business professional look, especially with darker colors where the bag will stand out as the showpiece of your entire outfit.

Conclusion

When you want to get into quality leather products without breaking your bank, Wilsons is always a great place to start. With the noted exception of the rubber beads lining the handle, the bag is solidly constructed. Known for their great sales, the bag’s MSRP is set at $460.00, listed online at $179.99, and right now (as of this writing), you can get an extra 40% off, bringing the price down to a smoking $108.00 and free shipping on your first order.

To recap, you’ve got genuine leather, overall great construction, good, looks, and plenty of carry space in a great looking tote for under $110 shipped. While we did note a couple of potential, albeit minor, functional issues, using the tote for the larger items it seems to be designed for will serve you well. The Roma Leather Tote is a nice way to start your collection of fine leather purses, bags, and satchels without breaking the bank while still looking great.

October 7, 2015December 19, 2017

Wilsons Leather Dark Rugged Double Gusset Brief Review- $249.99

If looks were everything, there would be no question about picking up Wilsons Leather Dark Rugged Double Gusset Brief. Dark leather, contrast stitching, and antiqued brass combine to give this bag an appeal that is universal to the modern business world.

Wilsons offers the brief as a lightweight bag to hold your laptop, tablet, and office accessories. With the aesthetic appeal of the bag being obvious upon inspection, the question is whether or not the bag will hold up to the daily demands of the office and the roads you travel on to get there.

About Wilsons Leather

Wilsons Leather is a U.S. leather retailer, selling jackets, belts, shoes, handbags, and gloves. At its peak in 2002, the Minneapolis-based retailer had 763 stores in Canada and the United States.

Construction

The bag is constructed of semi-vegetable tanned cow leather sourced in China, measuring 16” x 12” x 4” and is light for its size and construction. It weighs in at 2 pounds, 14 ounces (1.2 kilograms) without the strap or 3 pounds, 3 ounces (1.5 kilograms) with it. The lightness is due in part to the 2 mm thickness of the leather shell. The leather shell is well supported by foam padding encased in nylon between each section of the bag. The foam padding on the smaller accessory pockets is a nice touch.

On the outside of the bag, everything is held together by gold contrast stitching using polyester thread. Antique brass rivets hold down the D-rings (for attaching the carry strap) and one piece of the handle. The other side of the handle is inset into the bag and stitched in place. The zippers are constructed of the same antiqued-brass slides and plastic elements (the teeth) and are non-branded, unlike the traditional YKK zippers found in many of Wilsons Leather products. I would like to see metal elements in the zippers to increase product longevity even with the minor weight increase to the bag.

The insides of the bag are made up of two main compartments and three outer pockets. The small outer pocket has slots for cards, pens, a smartphone, and room for other accessories. The larger exterior pocket adjacent to it is available for slightly larger accessories. The outer pocket on the other side of the bag is identical to this pocket.

The main inner pocket has three large side pockets (5.5” wide by 8.5” deep) for electronics and a velcro nylon strap for securing your laptop.

The last piece is the carrying strap, made of nylon with a sliding leather pad for your shoulder. At the end of the pad, antique brass swivel snap hooks allow you to attach the strap to the bag.

Function

I work in an office and occasionally in the field, so need an all-in-one bag to carry my laptop and various sundries around. This bag does just that. With numerous zipped inside and outside pockets, it was very easy to store and access all of my equipment on the fly.

The adjustable-length canvas strap was nice for longer walks. Even with the sliding leather pad on the strap, keeping the strap crossed over my opposite shoulder was the easiest way to carry it. I was able to access the zippered pockets even with the bag slung over my shoulder, which was nice when reaching for my wallet or phone.

If you need more space, you’ll appreciate the double gusset zip-around for more storage. It adds 3 inches of width to the bag, which is very generous for a bag of this type.

Aesthetic

The dark brown leather looks good with almost any business attire. The stitching is even and well done, a must when you use a contrasting thread color. The black zipper elements add a subtle appearance, though antique brass elements on the zippers would fit in well with the sliders.

I like the size of the bag for carrying it around. It’s easily going to fit in the overhead compartment of any plane, though you’ll probably elect to carry it with you considering the cargo it carries.

While you may not find yourself looking at the interior of the bag that much, it bears mentioning. The copper color of the nylon has a nice sheen to it, and the stitching is equally well done. Attention to details like this are what help to elevate a leather product over other designs. Of note, the blue tags around the zippers are there as a protectant and easily removed. I left them on in some photos to show detail in packaging of this product.

Conclusion

The Dark Rugged Double Gusset Brief is a professional, lightweight case that will serve you well in the office and on the road. It is attractive, has plenty of room, and should hold up well in the world of a business executive, college student, or anyone else needing a small briefcase. As I mentioned earlier, my biggest concern is the use of plastic zippers if you’re constantly getting in and out of the bag. Time will tell, though as of this writing, I’ve not encountered any issues.

Considering the price point of $239.99, the bag is a good value for a cowhide leather brief. What I appreciate about Wilsons Leather is that they often have sales on their products, whether you are shopping online or at one of their outlet stores; they tend to have quite a few sales where everything is 40% off online, meaning you could pick the bag up for $149.99 – an excellent deal. In the world of leather briefs, this bag would make a great gift for the young entrepreneur or graduate student.

October 2, 2015December 19, 2017

Kendal & Hyde Classic Leather Duffel Kickstarter

With five wildly successful Kickstarter campaigns under their belt, Kendal & Hyde Co. is at it again. This time around they have designed a classic leather duffel, modeled after arch top duffels from the 1940s. Their motto for designing this duffel: “Our leather travel duffel is authentically vintage looking enough to have been your grandfather’s, but with modern features you need.”

The duffel is made of full-grain, vegetable tanned leather sourced from the U.S. and Canada. Stitched with marine-grade polyester and held together with solid cast brass hardware and rivets, this bag won’t be falling apart any time this century. Even the handles are reinforced with 1/4″ steel bars. With a detachable shoulder strap, canvas lining, locking zippers and an integrated laptop sleeve, each part of this bag has been thought through with the traveller in mind. There are even pockets for your travel documents and an optional travel tag and water bottle holder.

This duffel will retail at $500, but if you snag it now, you can get it for $400. Kendall & Hyde are also running Kickstarter deals on passport covers, ID tags, and waterbottle holders. Check it out on Kickstarter!