LederMann Leather is Offering a 25% Discount to BestLeather Readers

It’s always the right time to buy new leather products…right? But, it’s even nicer when you can save some money (or buy more leather with the same money). LederMann Leather has graciously offered to give BestLeather readers (that means all of y’all) a substantial discount on select items on their website. You can save 25% on the following items by using the discount code “Savings” during checkout (be sure to enter it before proceeding to checkout) to receive your exclusive discount.

And, let us know what you ordered from LederMann! They create some great leather products!

August 20, 2015November 21, 2019

Saddleback Large Leather Satchel Review – $408

There comes a time to take the leap from a nylon messenger bag to a quality leather piece that excels in both form and function. If you search for “best leather bag” in Google, the first hit will be the Saddleback Leather Company website– and for good reason. Saddleback Leather (SBL) is a Texas-based company specializing in full-grain, fully tanned leather goods designed to last a lifetime and beyond. This is an online company whose commitment to well-made leather products have earned it a cult following among the style and leather forums across the internet. Today I’ll be taking a look at their Large Leather Satchel.

CONSTRUCTION & AESTHETIC

Saddleback uses full-grain chrome tanned leather, all fully dyed. This particular satchel is in their Black color, which is a darker version than the Carbon color they used to use. The satchel also comes in Chestnut, Dark Coffee Brown, and Tobacco. The leather, as always with Saddleback, is extremely high quality and sturdy, getting softer and more supple with age. You can learn a bit about the leather Saddleback uses on their website.

Some bags have seams at the edges of the bottom, or a seam down the middle of the bottom, which binds multiple smaller pieces of leather. But each seam is a potential weak point, which is a problem for someone who wants their briefcase to last a lifetime. Saddleback’s Leather Satchel is made up of only two main pieces of leather: the front flap going around all the way down the back, and the front panel. The edges are rounded to accommodate this design.

To further strengthen the bag, all seams are double-stitched and the stress areas are reinforced with copper and brass rivets, as well as hidden polyester strips. The hardware is nickel-plated brass and can hold up well against any abuse you’d give it. I appreciate that this satchel has only one strap and is relatively minimalist with the hardware. I think it has a simple and classic look while still maintaining the hefty “Saddleback” look. I’m not always a huge fan of their products that have tons of pockets and jangly bits, so I think this satchel strikes a nice balance.

FUNCTION

A large ring at the top of the bag allows you to convert the satchel into a backpack if you so choose. Just detach the lobster claw clasps from the sides, run the strap through the ring, and reattach to the smaller rings at the bottom. There’s even two shoulder pads to keep you comfortable. Of course, using such thick and sturdy leather means the bag weighs about 5 pounds empty. This isn’t terribly heavy, all things considered, but it will be an adjustment if you’re not accustomed to carrying around quality leather bags.

The bag features a two side pouches and a slim pouch that runs across the back for quick access. The inside of the satchel has two small phone or pen compartments, a key fob strap, and a sleeve for an iPad, book, or notebook. You can also fit an 11″ MacBook in the sleeve. A 13″ MacBook or other laptop can fit in the large pouch. At 14” W x 11” H x 5” D, the satchel is a nice in-between size. Not too bulky, but has plenty of room to fit what you need to run to a class or a meeting.

This satchel comes in two smaller sizes. The small is 10” W x 9” H x 4” D, for $308, and the medium is 12” W x 10” H x 4” D, for $378. I imagine these sizes would function well for ladies as a purse, too.

CONCLUSION

The Saddleback Large Leather Satchel is an excellent choice for an everyday carry bag. It is spacious and functional without being bulky. The hefty leather, strong seams, and sturdy hardware will outlast you and all the items you put in it. Its simple lines and classic color means this leather satchel will never go out of style.

Saddleback Large Satchel 4 — Perfect size for cats to hide in, too.

August 19, 2015December 19, 2017

Satchel & Page Belt Review – $95

If we have “one ring to rule them all” in The Lord of the Rings, surely we can have one belt? Personally, it would make wardrobe accessory choices much, much easier. The good news is that Satchel & Page is helping us out by launching the Belt and billing it as “Simply the highest quality belt. Guaranteed for life. A belt built to last forever. Leather, hardware, and width options for any occasion. Exceptional quality at every step of the process.”

About Satchel & Page

We’ve had the privilege of working with Daniel and crew from Satchel & Page on several occasions now. We have reviewed their Bomber Jacket and Mailbag – both of which proved to be stellar pieces. And, we’ll be publishing a review of their Café Racer Jacket in the coming months too (along with some other yet to be announced pieces).

Based in Austin, TX Satchel & Page is dedicated to producing handmade, high quality leather products for you to enjoy and pass on to generations to come. They launched their business on Kickstarter with a few iconic bag designs: the Mailbag, Map Case, Gladstone, Briefcase, and Pilot’s Bag and have been expanding their product line with exciting designs – both new and well established.

Construction

Over the course of six months, Satchel & Page tested natural vegetable tanned hides from 4 different suppliers. For production, they chose hides originating from within the USA, which aged with the richest patina. And, they are only using the Bend portion of each hide for their belts to ensure consistency in thickness through and through. The Belt is comprised of 10-12 ounce full grain, vegetable tanned leather. They’re thick!

The hardware is military grade brass buckles and Chicago screws. Satchel & Page is using Chicago screws because unlike stitching, snap buttons, or rapid rivets to attach the buckle, Chicago screws will never break. And you can also unscrew them and easily swap out the buckle if you wish. In addition to the antique brass and silver matte finishes, they have developed two finishes that are hand aged by their team of craftsmen – Iron Rust and Copper Patina.

Aesthetic & Function

The Belt is available in four leather colors, two widths, and your choice of 4 hardware colors. So many choices and possibilities… The Belt we received for this initial review is a beautiful Mahogany color and features their Iron Rust hardware (buckle and Chicago screws). **Note: Prior to receiving the Belt, it received a light coat of conditioner and now has a richer, darker tone to it. You can see the difference when looking at the image of the same belt (with different hardware) supplied from Satchel & Page below.**

Due to short notice, we were only able to get a small version of the belt and consequently have not actually worn it (it’s too small for my no-petite-at-all-frame).

But, the Belt has made the rounds at home, in the office, and amongst several team members here at BestLeather. Everyone’s initial reaction and assessment has been overwhelmingly positive. “Thick leather”, “gorgeous hardware”, “I like the tapered tip of the belt”, “nice, robust belt keeper loop”, “subtle logo placement”, and more are the words I’ve heard spoken about the Belt.

I have no doubt that this belt will perform its role superbly and admirably all while looking fantastic. And, since it’s vegetable tanned leather, it will get better looking as it ages and is used.

Conclusion

The Belt from Satchel & Page is no doubt a Buy It for Life piece. The quality of the leather coupled with the superior hardware ensures that you’ll be using this belt for a long, long time. Their Kickstarter has about 8 days left on it. They’ve blown past their goal, which is no surprise. There are still plenty of rewards and incentives left and you can still get this belt at the Kickstarter price of just $62 (will be $95 post-Kickstarter). The best option? Spend $275 to get all four belts with all four hardware options. Then you’ll truly “rule” in the belt kingdom.

August 19, 2015December 19, 2017

Timberland Winnegance Leather Duffle Bag Review – $375

Winnegance is located on the coast of southern Maine, an area of tall pines and cold winters. Winnegance Lake and Creek are named after a Native American (Abenaki) word for the land bridge they used to portage their canoes across. This allowed the travelers to avoid the rough waters at the mouth of the Kennebec. And it’s after this beautiful but rugged country that Timberland has named their Winnegance Leather Duffle Bag. For good reason too. The product has the same attributes as the climate, both an elegant beauty and a toughness fit for even the harshest weather.

About Timberland

Timberland is one of the larger companies I’ve reviewed a leather product for. Working with them felt a little less personal on the delivery level, but this made no difference in my experience with the product itself, which earned high marks in both quality and usability. Timberland designs its products to match the outdoor New England lifestyle, products stylish enough for city streets but rugged enough for woodland trails.

Construction

The Winnegance Leather Duffle is made from 100% cow leather. The inner lining is a smooth cotton, gentle on electronics or other things you might want to put inside. The shoulder strap is made of a more rugged cotton. I’ve been using the bag on and off over the last five weeks, and I feel pretty confident in its durability. The brass brads, the stitching at the seams, and the heavy-duty zipper just make it feel tough, like it will take a lot of wear and tear. It’s more susceptible to scratches than the nylon duffle I used to travel with, but that just gives the leather more character and makes it feel more personalized.

Function

The duffle is the ideal size for a carry-on item. It’s a tad on the small side, which I find really helpful in airports and dealing with the overhead bins of even small planes. (FYI, its dimensions are 18.5 by 11.8 by 9.4 inches.) I’m a bit of a minimalist, and I used it fairly easily for a weekend trip (it fit my compact laptop easily too). However, a more typical person might want to carry this along with a backpack or some other supplement. For example, this would sit nicely on top of a larger piece of roller luggage.

The top-haul handles make it easy to carry like a briefcase, and it felt natural to carry it that way. The shoulder strap is comfortable enough to carry it fully loaded across a large airport, which keeps your hands free, but this method isn’t comfortable enough for a day trip or anything too prolonged. The top strap also comes off easily if you feel like streamlining a bit.

The bag has one open-envelope outer pocket, which was perfect for tossing my phone and keys in while I passed through airport security. It has one main inner compartment, the sides of which have three smaller pockets in the walls in varying sizes. These are perfect for stashing toiletries, extra electronics cords, or whatever else you won’t want mixed in with your clothing and other big stuff.

Aesthetic

The duffle comes from Timberland’s Winnegance Collection, which includes a matching briefcase, a smaller satchel, and a messenger bag. For some reason, this duffel is the only product in the Winnegance line that Timberland categorizes in their women’s line. Personally, I think it’s because the flourishes at the ends of the zipper make it look a little purse-like. But the leather seems like it could fit either gender easily enough. (They call the color a “sandstone” brown, and I like it quite a bit.) The leather has a premium look, and the quad-stitch detailing give it some extra flare. The design is pretty pleasing overall.

BestLeather Conclusion

Whether you’re more of a city-side, downtown tourist or an outdoor lover, Timberland’s Winnegance Leather Duffle Bag will make a solid companion. It has a straightforward but elegant design that’s hard not to love.

August 18, 2015December 19, 2017

Angel Jackets Tom Cruise Mission Impossible 5 Jacket Review – $189

My childhood dream was to become a superhero who could also become any other superhero at will. Years later, not having given up on the dream, I found a way to get myself one step closer to that superhero reality – through the Angel Jackets Mission Impossible 5 Jacket. Wardrobe, as you may know, is the most important part of any superhero’s persona.

Light and stylish, this jacket will serve you well…whether you are hanging off the side of an Airbus 400 during takeoff or riding a motorcycle at 100+ miles per hour (we recommend doing neither).

About Angel Jackets

Paul Anderson created Angel Jackets in 2009 after the death of Michael Jackson in response to MJ’s fans looking for a unique way to remember Michael. By combining the costume element of movie star outfits with wearable jackets and real leather, Paul had hit on a winning combination that fans loved.

Today, Angel Jackets updates its collections regularly and takes custom orders. They offer a wide spectrum of jackets from past, present, and unreleased movies, television shows, and musical offerings. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced replica of the jackets today’s stars are wearing, Angel Jackets is a great starting point.

Construction

The shell of the jacket is made of genuine, chromium salt tanned, lambskin leather sourced from the Karachi and Sialkot areas of Pakistan. The shell is of good quality, though thin and designed more for the casual wearer. The entire jacket weights slightly under thirty ounces, making it a lightweight in its class. The other leather jacket I have hanging in my closet is sixty ounces by comparison.

The interior of the jacket is lined with viscose, a soft semi-synthetic material composed of regenerated cellulose, often used in the linings of sport jackets and dresses. There are two pockets sewn into the lining, one on each side. They are a nice touch in the event you need to conceal some clever spy gadgets while out on your impossible mission.

On the sleeves, outer pockets, and front of the jacket, you’ll find heavy duty YKK burnished metal zippers. YKK Group is a Japanese conglomerate well-known for manufacturing zippers, and the quality of metal used in this jacket is a nice touch.

The black stitching appears straight and is evenly spaced with no threads dangling at endpoints. Continued wear during cooler months will give a good indication of how it holds up over time.

The standup collar lends a casual look to the jacket without sacrificing any elements of appearance, a look Ethan Hunt would surely approve.

Function

If you’re a superspy finding himself tasked with protecting the world from ne’er-do-wells and need a light flexible jacket to keep you warm and make you look good, this is your jacket. While it is based directly on one of the jackets Tom Cruise sports in Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, it will serve handsomely in the spring, summer, fall, and possibly the winter depending upon the climate you live in, whether you are saving the world or not.

The overall lightweight construction of the jacket feels like it would be best suited for a night out on the town or a summer pleasure ride. This is not a heavy duty jacket and should be treated as such.

The jacket I received is a Large (L), and is a very comfortable fit for my size large body. If you are a weight lifter or someone who is very bulky across the shoulders, you might consider going up a size to give your shoulders additional breathing room.

Aesthetic

I like the way the jacket looks and fits to my frame. I also appreciate the zippers on the cuff for giving the arms a flared look and a little extra ventilation. The burnished zippers don’t contrast the black lambskin too much and add a nice touch to the overall look. The black viscose interior is the only choice for maintaining a high-quality look while letting the jacket remain light and breathable.

The one concern I had when I received this jacket was a scent that reminded me of napthalene, the same smell some of you might remember when your mom put mothballs in your closet as a kid. After hanging the jacket up for a couple days, the scent dissipated to unnoticeable levels. As of this writing, there is little to no scent on the jacket at all.

After speaking with Paul, he stated that the reason for the smell is due to the leather not being able to breathe during shipping. The moisture content in the jacket can produce the described odor. He also mentioned that since the jacket is hand-wrinkled leather, it contains more moisture than similar leather processed by a machine. If you’re looking to wear this jacket the moment you receive it, you might want to keep this caveat in mind. Give it a couple days to breathe, and it will be superhero-ready.

Conclusion

This jacket is fun. It is lightweight, sports a modern, casual look, and is a comfortable fit. As someone who likes the idea of subtly emulating his favorite film stars, the Mission Impossible 5 Jacket does just that. I don’t think the jacket will stand up to heavy abuse based on its lightweight construction, but as with all things leather, it never hurts to own more than one.

At $189.00 for a genuine leather jacket, it’s a good value for the looks and fun factor alone. I plan on sporting it in the fall months to see how the stitching and stress points hold up, and to ensure the leather shell can take a few scratches without tearing.

On a final note, what you see on the Angel Jackets web site is what you’ll receive when ordering the jacket. No, Tom Cruise does not come with the jacket, but the look you see online is what you’ll get when you unfold the jacket for the first time. If you’re a fan of the MI series or are in the market for a casual, lightweight leather jacket, check it out.

August 17, 2015December 19, 2017

LederMann Rugged Leather Bag Giveaway – $475 Value!

Congratulation to Adam S. on winning the LederMann Rugger Leather Briefcase/Messenger Laptop Bag!

We hope it brings you many years of great service!

LederMann Leather & BestLeather have teamed up to offer this gorgeous Rugged Leather Briefcase/Messenger Laptop Bag. We’ve had the pleasure of reviewing two great LederMann products in the past and can attest to the high quality of their bags.

The bag up for grabs is the LederMann Rugged Leather Briefcase/Messenger Laptop Bag. Here are some details for you:

“This bag has been designed to offer the flexibility of using it for a laptop bag, or to use as a bag in which to carry your everyday purse items, amongst many other things. It has two inner pockets to separate your possessions plus boasts of multiple outer pockets and smaller inner pockets in which to carry ink pens, glasses, electronics, and other items you may need. This bag not only allows you to carry it by a handle or shoulder strap it converts into a backpack to for even further convenience.”

Material:

Thick Full Grain Leather, 5 – 6 oz. (2 – 2.2 mm)
Suede Lining
Durable, Industrial Nylon Thread
Machine Pressed Heavy Duty Rivets at all stress points

The Design & Features:

Dimensions: 16″W X 12″H X 7″D and has two inside compartments that are 3.5″ inches each

Contest is open to contestants from United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom and Germany.

LederMann Leather Messenger Bag Giveaway – $475 Value!

August 17, 2015May 9, 2020

HUSKK iPhone 6 Quick Draw Wallet Review – $59.99

If you’re a regular reader here at BestLeather you know we’re always on the hunt for unique designs or new applications for leather. If you’re new to BestLeather…now you know. ☺ There is a lot of tradition in the form and function of leather and we like that too. But, it’s just downright cool to see fresh, new approaches to integrating a timeless material like leather. This is one of the things that struck us first when we were introduced to HUSKK.

About HUSKK

HUSKK is a team of free thinkers with varied disciplines from design, engineering, marketing and finance. Together, they share their diverse strengths and united passion of creation to bring to you NEW life-easing everyday must haves. “We love all things beautiful, functional and well crafted. Today there’s a growing community of people who appreciate and hunt for this union of solid functionality, minimalistic style combined with great craftsmanship made from honest materials. We believe that these are the core value of our creations and customers”.

HUSKK is based in London, England and ships their products worldwide.

Construction

The Quick Draw Wallet we received for review is made for the iPhone 6 and features great medium colored tan leather. HUSKK uses Italian vegetable tanned leather. It’s a unique design on many fronts. The molded plastic shell has a rubberized finish and fits tightly around my phone…making it feel secure.

The leather is high quality with a nice texture, feel, and finish to it. The stitching is even and matches the leather’s tone to blend in nicely. It’s a well built piece and doesn’t seem flimsy in any way.

Function

I used to keep my iPhones (3, 4, and 5) in bulky cases that were designed to survive apocalyptic incidents. But, I grew weary of encasing such a gorgeous phone in ugly bulkiness. So, I went completely case-less for some time (without incident too mind you). However the newest version of the iPhone seems a bit more fragile and its design is slippery, which makes me nervous. And that put me on the hunt for a solution. When I came across the iPhone 6 Quick Draw Wallet from HUSKK, I immediately knew it was the case/wallet combination of my dreams.

The case itself is minimal, but keeps the phone secure and the screen protected. The wallet portion is the “pièce de résistance”. It’s an ingenious design and application of beautiful leather. It features an internal slot pocket capable of holding 8 or so cards with four expanding leather pieces to hold them in place. The top of the leather flap stays shut with a magnet. It’s powerful too and will definitely stay closed when you have it maxed out with cards. The exterior slot pocket is perfect for cash and a couple of cards that you use frequently.

Aesthetic

I’ve been carry the Quick Draw for almost six weeks now. It’s definitely a keeper! It also garners quite a bit of attention and questions when I pull out a business card from the wallet portion or slide my debit card out to pay the barista.

The leather is developing a nice patina and has darkened up a bit already. Overall, I’m very satisfied with its performance and can’t think of an area where I find it to be lacking. It performs its intentions admirably and perfectly.

Conclusion

The HUSKK iPhone 6 Quick Draw Wallet is definitely a smart buy. At $59.99 it is priced well and given all of its functionality what I would consider a real bargain given the outrageous prices you’ll find for other smartphone cases. HUSKK does make other styles, colors, and cases. They also features some other cool, clever accessories too. And, I’m sure they’ll continue to design cases for the next generation of iPhones yet to come. Check out their site and get yourself one of these great cases.

August 14, 2015December 19, 2017

Moore & Giles Canady Haversack Review – $850

Moore & Giles has been firmly entrenched in the leather industry since it was founded in 1933 in Lynchburg, VA. Currently, Moore & Giles employs more than 70 people in its headquarters in Forest, Virginia with representation in every major metropolitan area as well as strategic partnerships in England, Germany, France, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Moore & Giles designs and develops luxurious natural leathers for leather upholstery, residential leather, hospitality leather and aviation leather. In 2007 they also introduced a collection of luxury leather bags and accessories as an additional avenue to showcase their leathers.

We’ve reviewed a few Moore & Giles products including the Bray Sportsman Duffel, Donald Dopp Kitt, and Brennan Rucksack. A few weeks ago, we published an interview with Thomas Brennan, one of their product designers. You can read the interview here. Today, we’ll be taking a look at his Canady Haversack. Keep an eye out for more reviews of Moore & Giles products, coming soon!

THE LEATHER

Moore & Giles beautiful milled leather is really the star of the show here. It’s supple, yet sturdy. My Canady Haversack is in the color they call “Titan Milled Brown,” a lovely rich brown. It also comes in Brompton Brown, a darker color, and Titan Milled Gunmetal, a deep black with brown accents. Each bag comes with a monogramming option, located at the top of the exterior pocket.

The leather is absolutely perfect, and will require some maintenance to remain supple and scuff-free. We reviewed Moore & Giles proprietary leather conditioner here, which works very well on this bag. We’ve reviewed quite a few other leather conditioners, which you can read about on our “Leather Care” tag.

CONSTRUCTION & AESTHETIC

The Canady Haversack has a very unique tapered construction. It’s a cross between a messenger bag and a briefcase, allowing easy access to the contents of the bag while maintaining the sleek handled look of a briefcase. The bag has D-rings that attach to a leather shoulder strap for shoulder carry if you prefer, but the bag does look pretty sleek as a briefcase, and its padded handles make it easy to carry by hand.

Lined with Moore & Giles signature fabric liner, this bag features a padded laptop sleeve and lots of functional little pockets. The main compartment unzips at an angle so the bag conveniently sits upright on its own. The angled zip means the bag opens and expands quite a lot, but is supported by a piece of liner that connects opposite sides of the zipper. The Canady Haversack measures 15” x 11.5” x 4.5”, a nice medium-sized messenger. You can fit plenty of items in here, and view and access them all with ease.

The main pouch features several reinforced pockets in the liner, where you can store folders, pens, and notebooks. The front pouch has pockets for business cards and a slot for your cell phone. If you have a bulky case on your phone, it imprints the front of the leather, making it obvious that you have a phone there and stretching the leather a little bit. It’s a minor issue, but it does interrupt the sleek aesthetic of the bag.

CONCLUSION

The Moore & Giles Canady Haversack is a beautiful, functional bag that will absolutely stand the test of time. If you’re looking for an everyday carry bag that will keep you organized, the Canady Haversack is a great option. It’s expensive, but it’s not unusual to pay a premium for Moore & Giles famous leather and thoughtful design.

August 13, 2015December 19, 2017

Thirteen 50 Leather Belt Review – $70

The leather belt is oft overlooked and simply taken for granted. This is especially true for what is often referred to as the “daily” or “casual” version of your pants’ keeper upper. The gentlemen at Thirteen50 Leather have supplied us with two great looking belts to put to the test. They also just launched their first Kickstarter campaign, which we encourage you to check out thoroughly and support.

About

Based is Oceanside, CA Thirteen50 is a leather company with a passion to create quality leather goods made right here in the USA. From their website: The saying, “they don’t make em’ like they used to” is said far too often in this day in age. This is sad, but so very true. At Thirteen50 we wanted to do as our ancestors did, and make a quality product at an affordable price (not to mention, offering a killer traditional look).

Construction

This is a belt you could tow your truck home with…although that would be a really cool sight to see, we don’t necessarily recommend it. However, the Thirteen50 leather belt is fashioned from 12-14 ounce leather, which means it is incredibly thick and durable. The leather used by Thirteen50 is sourced from within the United States – bridle leather from Wickett & Craig or Hermann Oak. The point is…it’s tremendously strong and long lasting. The edges of the belt are nicely burnished and beveled. The hardware used is solid brass. The belt also features 4 heavy duty Chicago screws, which allow you to personalize the belt with your own buckle should that be something of interest to you.

Aesthetic & Function

I’ve only had these two belts for a couple of weeks so far, but I really like them. The thick leather feels great and looks fantastic. The two colors I received (chestnut and black) are classic colors and go well with a variety of dress options. I like the antique brass color of the hardware on both belts and I think it compliments the leather colors perfectly.

Both belts have plenty of adjustment holes in them and everything just works the way a belt should. The Thirteen50 logo is tastefully placed near the back set of Chicago screws. The folks who’ve had a chance to check out the belts thus far all have commented favorably on them…with lots of comments on the quality of the leather.

Conclusion

Thirteen50 Leather is in the middle of their Kickstarter campaign, which is focused on these belts. In addition to the chestnut and black colors shown here, you have the option to order it in natural veg tan and dark brown…both of which appear to be excellent choices too. They’re just about to crest their goal on Kickstarter…but there are plenty of rewards left. $50 will get you a belt that later on will cost you $70. So get it while you can…and you won’t regret it. This belt, which definitely meets our Buy It for Life criteria, is backed by a lifetime guarantee, but it is designed to outlast you, so don’t worry about it. I look forward to using these belts over the course of time and I’ll definitely plan to post an update on them in the not too distant future.

August 13, 2015May 9, 2020

Hanwag Men’s Tashi Boots Review – $425

How many times have you heard someone say, “well, my boots are made from yak leather”? I can honestly say that, before this year, I didn’t know anything about yak leather. But now…not only do I KNOW about yak leather – I have a pair of awesome yak leather hiking boots from an great company called Hanwag.

About Hanwag

This is the second feature from Hanwag here on BestLeather. Recently we published a review on a pair of hiking boots for ladies, which you can read here.

Hanwag is a German company that’s been around since 1911. They have a strong following throughout Europe and are seeing the brand successfully grow in the United States now. They’re dedicated to environmentally friendly processes, sustainable processes, and producing high quality products.

Construction

As mentioned earlier, the Tashi Boots are made with Tibetan yak leather. The chrome free yak leather features an eco-friendly, sustainable technology used during manufacturing process. The leather is 2.2 to 2.6 millimeters thick. This leather is sourced exclusively from the Lhasa Leather Factory in Tibet.

"The Yak" by Nadeemmushtaque - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_Yak.jpg#/media/File:The_Yak.jpg — “The Yak” by Nadeemmushtaque

Quick rabbit trail: Yaks are hardy animals that thrive in their normal 4000 meter, relatively barren landscape. The animal provides many benefits to its owners over its lifetime. When the yak’s hide is tanned into leather, it has a naturally raw texture, not uniform at all. This gives each Tashi Boot a unique character.

The boots are double stitched, feature a rugged resoleable Vibram sole, and are handmade In Germany with materials exclusively sourced within Europe.

Function

This is the really fun part. I’ve worn out many different pairs of hiking boots over the years. I feel like I have a pretty good grasp on functionality and performance here. To put it succinctly…these boots rock.

They are comfortable and feel great on your foot. The break-in period is very slight…wear them a few short times around town and then you’re ready to hit the trail. One of the things I noticed about these boots is the shape of the sole. They naturally cause your foot to move properly (pronate…supinate). The soles create a fantastic heel to toe roll, which is ideal for long hikes and exploring on the trail.

View Post

The thickly padded upper is appreciated for comfort, ankle support, and the safety it affords while on the trail. Lacing them up is easy and the one set of speed hooks is set down low, which is ideal and gives you a good pull and keeps your heel firmly in place. Also, the eyelets on the lower portion of the boots actually contain ball bearings…a cool little feature that allows the laces to move easily without wearing them out (it’s the little things, right?). The Tashi Boots are a great all around hiker and will keep your feet comfortable for many miles.

Aesthetic

The Hanwag Tashi Boots have a traditional European hiking boot design, which I’ve always found to be pleasing to the eye. The texture of the yak leather is immediately noticeable and very cool. It is definitely unique…and I like it. The dark brown of the leather and the padded upper is a nice departure from the traditional lighter brown of many boots in this style. The interior of the boot is visually appealing too with the light beige colored thin leather lining.

The dark brown yak leather, the thick white stitching on the sole, the rugged Vibram tread…it all makes me feel like trekking through the backcountry of Yosemite again. If only I had the time and resources to run off and do it.

Conclusion

At $425, the Hanwag Tashi Boots are a significant investment. But, if you’re a moderate to serious backpacking or trail hiking enthusiast, you already know that investing in a great pair of boots is the best choice you can make. You won’t go wrong purchasing these boots. They’re a treat for your feet and will continue to keep you moving down the trail for many years to come. And…they’re yak leather! You’ll by far be the coolest person on the trail for sure with these on your feet!

August 12, 2015December 19, 2017

Satchel & Page’s Belt Kickstarter Reaches First Stretch Goal

Satchel & Page, based in Austin, Texas, has quickly made a name for themselves in the leather world. After successfully funding two Kickstarter campaigns for their leather bags and belts, they recently launched a third campaign for their leather belts. We’ve reviewed several Satchel & Page products, including their Mailbag and Bomber Jacket, and found their products to be top-notch.

For $62, you will receive a leather belt that comes in four colors and four hardware finish options, detailed in the graphic below:

Here are some of the features of their belts, as listed on their Kickstarter:

1. Custom made for you. For any occasion. – With two width options (1.5 + 1.25), you are covered for casual wear with jeans, and formal/office wear with slacks. And with 4 leather and 4 hardware options, you can create a belt just how you want it. They all come with the same exceptional quality and lifetime guarantee.

2. The highest grade leather hides – 10 -12 oz. full-grain, vegetable tanned leather from only US origin cows. It’s simple: The best hides make the best belts. See below infographic.

3. Military grade brass hardware – We offer the standard antique brass and silver matte finishes, but we also wanted to offer some unique finishes that you can’t find anywhere else. So we developed our own process to hand antique finish the Iron Rust and Copper Patina hardware, which makes each one of these buckles just a little different.

This Kickstarter has blown past its original goal of $5,000 and reached its first stretch goal, which is a hand-stitched journal cover. They’re just a few hours away from meeting their second stretch goal, which would allow them to offer their belt in a Chestnut color. Be sure to keep an eye on Satchel & Page’s Kickstarter and for other updates we encourage you to like their Facebook page.

August 12, 2015December 19, 2017

LederMann Rugged Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag Backpack Review – $455

We’re changing things up a little bit here. That doesn’t sound quite right. We’re working to add a new component to our BestLeather readers with the addition of some occasional short video reviews of the products that we review. Our first foray into this is a feature style on LederMann’s newest bag – their Rugged Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag Backpack. And, apologies in advance for some of the wind noise in the video.

As you can assume from the name of the bag, it’s multipurpose in its design. It can easily serve as a formal, large briefcase. It functions very well as a messenger bag for casual, less formal business or scholarly pursuits. It can easily work as a classy overnight bag. And, you can load it up, reconfigure the shoulder strap and carry it backpack style. This is a new style of leather that LederMann is offering too. This “Rugged Leather” style has a unique texture to it and looks to offer great longevity and should develop an excellent patina with time and use. The Rugged Leather has a bit of a rough out feel to it…but certainly not that rough. It’s just similar.

We highlight most of these items in the video, but here’s a quick rundown of the LederMann bag’s features:

Thick Full Grain Leather, 4 – 5 oz. (2 – 2.2 mm)
Suede Lining
Heavy-duty, Industrial Nylon Thread
Machine Pressed Heavy Duty Rivets at all stress points.
Size: 16″W X 12″H X 6″D inch.
Front Pocket/Compartment Size: 13″W x 9″H x 1.5″D inch for the open
pocket compartment
Easily converts to a Backpack.
When you order from LederMann, you enjoy free shipping to United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia,
Italy, France, Germany and many other countries.

LederMann is also going to be sponsoring a giveaway for a slightly different bag featuring this same new rugged leather. So, be on the lookout for that very soon. And, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter too as we’ll be sending out a special promotion from LederMann offering some fantastic savings just for BestLeather readers! In the meantime, please check out the LederMann website and look at all of the great, well made leather products they create and sell there.

August 7, 2015December 19, 2017

Iron & Resin Café Gloves Review – $72

When you get your first two-wheeled freedom machine (aka motorcycle), it’s an awesome experience. I owned my first motorcycle in college. When I graduated, I quickly upgraded to another cruiser and used it daily to commute into the San Fernando Valley. One of the best things I ever did for my daily rides was purchase a good set of leather gloves. Of course gloves aren’t just for riding motorcycles…but some gloves just go with motorcycles better than others. Such is the case with the Iron & Resin Café Gloves.

About Iron & Resin

“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

The Iron & Resin Café Gloves come in what they refer to as a ‘gold’ color. It’s an attractive color, but I’d say it’s more yellow than gold. But, I’m not going to nitpick. The gloves are 100% deerskin leather. If you’re not familiar with deerskin, it’s super soft; a fact that makes them ideal for gloves. Not only is it soft, but it’s durable too. The gloves are double stitched and feature an extra layer of leather across each palm.

Function

I received a pair in their extra large size and they fit perfectly. They’re snug in the right places and offer just the extra protection and insulation that I want when riding. And, their style affords me the ability to wear them off of my bike too. Their traditional look doesn’t look out of place with a good leather jacket on those cool mornings or evenings. On the motorcycle they are protective, yet soft enough to afford ease of movement and function while riding (which is extremely important). And riding is where these gloves truly belong…it’s part of the Iron & Resin DNA.

Aesthetic

The first thing people do with these gloves is touch them…and comment on how soft the leather is. Then, of course they slip their hands inside and comment even more on the softness. Finally they ask, “where did you get these?” And, I happily suggest they visit the Iron & Resin website. I also point out they have several different colors, leathers, and styles of gloves available (be looking for another BestLeather review on their Elk Bobber Gloves).

The color of the Café Glove definitely draws attention. But, it’s the deerskin leather that really grabs people’s attention.

The Iron & Resin logo name is stamped on both gloves and, in my opinion, gives them a cool, heritage look. They also have a piston and anchor logo pin in one of the gloves…another cool little feature.

Conclusion

Even if I didn’t ride motorcycles, I would still be very interested in these gloves. I just like the style – I like the design – I really like the deerskin leather – and the fit and finish is ideal. At $72 the Iron & Resin Café Gloves are a bit more than you’ll spend on gloves from a big box store, but the quality, style, and ‘cool factor’ is unrivaled. I look forward to using them on most every ride from here on out.

August 5, 2015December 19, 2017

Thirteen50 Leather Announces Kickstarter for their Full Grain Leather Belts

Thirteen50 Leather, based in Oceanside, CA, has just announced a new Kickstarter campaign for their full-grain leather belts. From their website:

Thirteen50 is a leather company with a passion to create quality leather goods, made in the USA. The saying, “they don’t make em’ like they used to” is said far too often in this day in age. This is sad, but so very true. At Thirteen50 we wanted to do as our ancestors did, and make a quality product at an affordable price (not to mention, offering a killer traditional look).

Each full-grain leather belt is made by hand in the United States. If you fund their Kickstarter, you can choose to be rewarded with a leather bracelet, leather key fob, or one of their belts. The belts, priced at $50 on the Kickstarter, come in the following colors: Chestnut, Black, Dark Brown, and Natural. You can also choose your hardware finish color: Silver Matte, or Antique Brass. Sizes 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 4, 48 and 50. Each Thirteen50 product comes with a lifetime warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Check out their Kickstarter now, as you can save $20 or more on their sturdy belts. Thirteen50 Leather will also be debuting a line of bags and accessories in the near future. Be sure to keep an eye out for a BestLeather review of Thirteen50’s belts, coming soon!

August 5, 2015December 19, 2017

6 Favorite Etsy Stores for Ladies

With its hand sewn dresses, vintage furniture, and Barry Manilow pillows, Etsy can be quite overwhelming. Finding the perfect backpack, purse or wallet can take a bit of time and research, so we’re here to help! We’ve curated a few of our favorite Etsy stores that specialize in products for women. We’re always on the lookout for more great shops, so be sure to tell us about your favorites in the comments!

Blue Drop

Sandals, backpacks, camera bags, and more, all made in Greece and priced very reasonably.

Tox Leather

Wallets, electronics cases, tote bags, and much more from Tox Leather. We’ve reviewed several of their products here at BestLeather, including their Shiny Macbook/Document Case (which made our Graduation Gift Guide for 2015) and Cigar Cases.

Aurora Shoe Co

Aurora Shoe Company sells ladies’ shoes handmade in Aurora, New York. Their simple designs are sweet and timeless.

Jenny N Design

Gorgeous genuine leather backpacks, tote bags, purses, and more, from a one-woman operation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We’re big fans of her waxed canvas and leather backpacks.

Awl Snap

Based in Richmond, Virginia, Awl Snap makes unique designs in fun colors. They feature roll-top backpacks, bucket bags, clutch purses, and more. They were recently a featured shop on Etsy, and you can read a bit more about them here!

Crow SLC

Crow SLC is a shop in Salt Lake City Utah that designs modern bags and clutches with a very angular, minimalist look. I purchased the Mini Crossbody Bag in black for my mom, and she loves its unique look. They just released some new designs for pre-order, so check them out!

August 4, 2015December 19, 2017

Chivote – A Kickstarter Success in the Making

Chivote is a young team with a passion for quality goods; who wants to make it’s own mark, by creating unique products with a bit of extra functionality. Their Kickstarter has been enthusiastically embraced and is currently enjoying a 200% funding status with just a few days before it closes.

Chivote is offering several great, unique leather products that offer versatility and durability at great prices. If you’re able, order during the remaining time on their Kickstarter to enjoy even more savings on these quality pieces.

Their Kickstarter page is full of great videos and information about their products, their processes, and their company. Be sure to take a few minutes and check it all out. Hopefully you’ll be seeing a product review or two here on BestLeather featuring Chivote.

August 4, 2015May 9, 2020

Red Wing Iron Ranger Boots Review – $319.99

The first pair of Red Wing boots I ever encountered were given to me in the summer of 1984. I was actually reluctant to accept them. You see, I considered myself a “certified ranch hand”, even though I was truly only a greenhorn at the time. After quickly wearing out several pairs of decent, traditional cowboy boots on the ranch, my boss gave me a pair of Red Wing work boots (I don’t recall the type). Being a Texas boy, I kind of scoffed at the idea of wearing them for cattle ranching. But, I slipped them on, worked in them for a day…and continued to work in them for the rest of the year. Unfortunately, I grew out of them – I certainly didn’t wear them out. They were seriously comfortable and rugged…enduring all of the harsh punishment I dished out at the time. That was my introduction to Red Wing.

About Red Wing

From their website: “Around the turn of the 20th century a Red Wing, MN shoe merchant named Charles Beckman saw a local necessity for shoes specifically designed for the demanding work of industries such as mining, logging and farming. The rigors of these jobs required footwear, which was tough enough to outlast harsh working conditions, but Beckman envisioned a shoe that was also comfortable enough for the hardworking people who wore them. Beckman set out to develop work boots to fill this need and in 1905 he and fourteen investors opened a company that would change the market. Beckman named his company Red Wing Shoes, and thus a new standard for excellence was born.

Over one hundred years has passed since our founding and our commitment to producing only the highest grade footwear remains as unwavering as Beckman’s vision. Our products consistently perform in environments spanning from the Mideast oil fields to the Midwest corn fields. Red Wing boots protect workers in more than one hundred countries across the world, an accomplishment built by years of hard work, endurance and the promise to never compromise on our quality.”

The Iron Ranger Boots that I have the privilege of reviewing are part of Red Wing’s Heritage Collection. Again, according to their website, “our Heritage collection, which is made up of footwear that represents the American ideals of prosperous work and excellence. All the styles in the Heritage collection are designed and built just as they were fifty, sixty and even over eighty years ago and are all made using premium Red Wing Shoe Company leather from our very own S.B. Foot Tannery. They are handcrafted to the specifications, which made each style timeless when they were first introduced.”

Construction

The Iron Ranger Boots are made using premium black harness leather from their own S.B. Foot Tannery. This is oil-tanned leather, which is used in many of Red Wing’s boots and shoes. Oil-tanned leather is extremely durable, which is a feature easily seen and proven with Red Wing’s 100+ year history. The boots are made using Goodyear Welt construction, the hardware for the eyelets and speed hooks is nickel, and the laces are long lasting taslan. The nitrile cork soles initially appear like they would be slippery – however, they are not at all. Cork soles are extremely durable and provide excellent traction on almost all surfaces. This particular style also features an eye-catching double layer toe cap and double stitching. Interestingly, the boots feature two different colors of stitching – the toe cap and seams around the laces and top of the boot all feature black thread while the rest of the boot has white stitching.

Function

While anticipating the arrival of my Iron Rangers, I read comments from many different long time Red Wing wearers and was initially nervous about the break-in period. Perhaps I’m just not that ‘in-tune’ with my feet, but the break in period on my Iron Rangers was virtually nil. They were comfortable initially…but, they’re really comfortable now. I’ve worn these boots consistently and in a variety of situations. All day comfort is definitely an one of the Iron Ranger’s attributes.

In spite of their 8” height, I do not have issues slipping these on without a finger loop or pull loop on the back. Perhaps it’s because of the angled top of the boot? I’m not sure. However, unlike some other boots of this size that also lack a pull tab on the back of them, these slip on easily and effortlessly.

Aesthetic

This style’s original purpose was to serve Iron miners in northern Minnesota. All I have to say about that is, dang…those were some stylin’ miners! This boot has some serious aesthetic appeal. They’re rugged – but with that toe cap, you can dress ‘em up too. Personally, I think it’s a great style and for those of you who are budget minded when it comes to footwear, consider this boot as two pairs: your dress boot and your casual boot.

I enjoy the black version of the Iron Rangers that I have now. These boots also come in Amber, Copper, and Hawthorne leathers too – all of which look fantastic. I would not hesitate to hit the “Add to Cart” button on any of those versions.

To keep my boots in tiptop shape, I also received Red Wing’s Basic Care Product Kit, which contains their All Natural Leather Conditioner, Mink Oil, Boot Cream, Brush, and Cloth. This is a must have kit if you plan to keep the leather on your Red Wing’s conditioned and protected. At $39.95, it’s a great kit and will service your boots well.

Conclusion

You can’t go wrong in purchasing a pair of Red Wing Iron Rangers. The construction, fit, finish, and heritage behind the brand is all fantastic. In the realm of quality footwear, their price of $319.99 is a great value. You will receive a pair of boots that will be enjoyed for years, will continue to perform well, and will become a daily companion on all of life’s adventures. The Iron Rangers are definitely a great buy. So, which pair will you be ordering?

July 29, 2015December 19, 2017

Harmattan Design Launches Kickstarter Campaign

Harmattan Design, a new company out of Wilmington, DE, has just launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund their new line of products. The new product line includes backpacks, messenger bags, ladies’ tote bags and purses, a cycling bag, and a document tube. All their products are made of vegetable-tanned, full-grain harness leather from Italy.

Harmattan Design focuses on superb design and high quality materials. Radu, Harmattan Design’s founder, started the company because he was tired of doing cheap design for manufacturers and wanted to apply his skills to a product line with high quality materials. Wanting to get his ideas out of his head, he ended up with 14 different designs, and thus Harmattan Design was born.

All the Kickstarter products are reasonably priced, from $160 – $340. You can save around $40 by ordering early, so be sure to check out Radu’s designs! We have pictures of all 14 of the great looking products, so take a look and be sure to check out the Kickstarter page.

July 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Hanwag Tatra Ladies’ Boots Review – $280

One of the greatest feelings in the world is getting out on the trail and breathing some of that fresh alpine air. But one of the worst feelings is getting halfway up the mountain, realizing you’ve got a blister forming, and knowing that the rest of the hike is going to be agony. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in a nice pair of hiking boots. Hanwag, based in Vierkirchen, Germany, has been making high quality outdoor shoes since 1921. We received a pair of their Tatra Lady boots to review, as well as a pair of Men’s Tashi Boots made with yak leather (keep an eye out for a review coming soon!). My wife immediately snagged up the Tatra Lady boots to test out and wear on a few hikes.

ABOUT HANWAG

Hans Wagner opened his boot shop in 1921 in Vierkirchen, Germany, close to Munich. Wagner made a name for himself by producing high quality alpine skiing and touring boots. By the company’s 90th anniversary in 2011, Hanwag had become a staple in the hiking and outdoor sports world. From their website:

“HANWAG boots and shoes are primarily made in Europe. Only a small number of our components require lengthy transportation. We make approximately 30 per cent of our collection (the double stitched and mountain boots) at our headquarters in Vierkirchen, near Munich. We have further exclusive production facilities in Croatia, Hungary and Romania. Our relatively limited transportation requirements help further minimize our environmental impact.”

CONSTRUCTION

The Tatra boots are crafted with waxed nubuk uppers, lined with leather, and double-stitched onto a Vibram AW Integral sole. The leather is hard and waxy, but not crusty or plastic feeling. The upper, midsole, and insole rib are all genuinely double-stitched– you can see the flange on the edge of the midsole that proves that these boots are constructed extremely sturdily.

The chunky Vibram AW Integral sole provides great traction while still being flexible enough to maintain a natural gait. Hefty metal shoelace hooks allow for a highly adjustable fit around the ankle, which has a medium-high cut.

FUNCTION

These boots are immediately comfortable upon first wear. The perforated collar is attached to a soft, padded leather lining that keeps the foot stable and avoids rubbing. The insole is padded with Hanwag’s FussKomfort sole, which you can easily substitute or replace. So far, these boots have walked miles without an issue. Paired with a thick pair of wool socks, The Tatra will take you many, many miles in total comfort. They weigh 760 grams/1.7 pounds, which is on the heavier side, but the hefty sole and sturdy construction are worth it.

AESTHETIC

The Tatra’s color is what makes this boot model so eye-catching. Hanwag calls the color Aubergine or Eggplant 82, however, in person the boots are really a bit brighter red than they appear on the website. The color is muted enough to be tasteful, yet interesting enough to stand out from the droves of brown hiking boots on the market. The upper has an interesting rounded cut that gives the boot a modern twist. The medium-high cut looks great while maintaining ankle stability.

CONCLUSION

Hanwag’s Tatra Lady boots are an excellent choice for the frequent hiker. Their stability and expert construction speaks well of Hanwag’s legacy, and their unique aesthetic sets them apart from other similar boots. $280 is a very reasonable price to pay for hiking boots that will last years on the trail. These are boots that you’ll want to take on adventures for years to come.

July 22, 2015December 19, 2017

Thrux Lawrence Black Leather Coasters (Square – Set of 4) Review – $25

Thrux Lawrence is one of the first companies BestLeather has had the pleasure of working with, and also the first company to pique my interest in leather. Because my barber is connected to the Thrux Lawrence flagship store, I repeatedly find myself perusing their leather goods, the outstanding collection of antiques, and generally longing to buy one of everything. Thrux Lawrence is a solid company who “builds them like they used to.” Even when it comes to coasters.

About Thrux Lawrence

I discovered Thrux Lawrence one day casually strolling the streets of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho with my sister. She had apparently heard about this awesome store that just opened downtown, and being the hip teenagers we were, we had to check it out. My first experience with Thrux Lawrence was very exciting. Tanden greeted us at the door and began explaining how his company was built around the principles of functional yet stylish design, limited supply, and Made in the USA. From that point on I was very interested in leather and its durability, longevity, and style, especially the products Thrux Lawrence has to offer.

Construction

Coasters may perhaps be the easiest leather accessories anyone could construct. But even with something so simple, it is still difficult to get the perfect result. Made from black 10-12oz bridle leather, these coasters are as indestructible as any of the other Thrux products. Occupying the standard coaster size of 4 x 4 in, this coaster provides adequate space for even the largest of drinks. The burnished edges and Thrux Lawrence logo add just enough flair to the coaster.

Function

I have yet to come across a drink that will not fit on these coasters. And even if I had, I should never be drinking that much anyway. The coasters function extremely well. The leather is thick enough to prevent moisture underneath, but not too thick so drinks tip over if they are not placed all the way on the coaster. I have been pleased with them so far, and they will most definitely outlast any non-leather coaster.

Aesthetic

Black is one of my favorite colors. It is simple, goes with almost anything, and in the case of coasters, prevents any discoloration. The Thrux Lawrence coasters are very rigid. Their strength reflects the principles this company was founded on, and even though coasters are very simple, they’ve continued to abide strictly to those principles.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a simple set of quality leather coasters, check out the shapes and colors Thrux Lawrence has to offer. Whether you choose squares or circles, black or brown, the coasters will be the same quality. Coming in at $25, the Thrux Lawrence Leather Coasters are an excellent choice for simple, effective leather accessory.