Colonel Littleton No. 17 Hunt Bag Review – $370

“Sometimes old ways are better than new ways” – that’s a quote directly from Colonel Littleton. In spite of all of the advancements our modern day society has made…all of the technological leaps and bounds that seem to occur weekly, his quote is completely true. The allure of handmade, of time well spent crafting something of beauty is still heralded today. Handcrafted, artisan products are one of the key hallmarks of everything that comes out of the Colonel Littleton workshop and it definitely holds true for the piece we’re featuring for them today – the No. 17 Hunt Bag in American Buffalo.

ABOUT COLONEL LITTLETON

Colonel Littleton is based out of Lynnville, Tennessee, a town with a population of 327. The real Colonel Littleton himself got his start selling vintage cufflinks in 1987, which sparked an interest in creating unique, heirloom items. Now, 28 years later, Colonel Littleton makes bags, belts, hats, wallets, knives, cologne, and more, all with a unique Tennessee flair. At BestLeather we’ve had the privilege of working with the Colonel and his talented team for well over a year now. And, we’ve featured several of their excellent products. To see more Colonel Littleton reviews, click here.

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION

The No. 17 Hunt Bag is made with beautiful cognac bison leather, with the natural rugged grain that comes standard with American bison leather. Like all the Colonel Littleton products I’ve gotten my hands on, the construction and stitching is impeccable. The bag measures 7 ¾”H x 11”W x 3”D, and the inside pocket measures 6″H x 9 1/2″W x 2 1/2″D with another large pocket along the front. There is a large back pocket that stretches across the back of the bag, and another small pocket under the front flap. The back pocket is great for keeping your phone or keys when you need quick, easy access.

The bag comes with a crossbody strap that adjusts from 44″ to 52″ with ease. The strap is thin, yet comfortable to wear as a crossbody. At 11″ wide, the bag is a nice medium size that works with all body types. The inside is roomy enough to hold a wallet, keys, phone, and other purse essentials with ease.

AESTHETIC

The No. 17 Hunt Bag has a classic hobo crossbody construction with the addition of a hand grip built into the flap. The grip is reinforced with leather and its snug construction means that very little is exposed to the elements. The hand grip gives it visual interest as well as a vintage feel. The stainless steel cinch buckle adds to the bag’s vintage, equestrian look as well. The American Bison leather has a beautiful texture that really sets this bag apart, and gets softer and darker with age. The subtle stitching adds to the western style.

CONCLUSION

The No. 17 Hunt Bag is yet another top notch product from Colonel Littleton. It’s pricy, but for $370, you’re getting beautiful bison leather and unique hardware, all handmade in Lynnville, Tennesee. If you’re looking for a crossbody purse with a unique western flair, the No. 17 Hunt Bag is a great choice that will last you a lifetime.

January 25, 2016December 19, 2017

Hidesign Seeks to Expand to U.S. Market

Based in Pondicherry, India, leather goods manufacturer Hidesign is actively working to grow its presence in the U.S. market. Hidesign was founded in 1978, as a two-man workshop. The company now has over 80 exclusive branded stores and sells in hundreds of independent stores, making it a huge player in India’s accessories market.

The company expanded to the U.S. in late 2014 and hopes to build its brand through online sales and high end independent retailers. Each Hidesign bag is made by hand with vegetable-tanned leather from their own tannery, and all their hardware is solid brass cast and polished at their own forge. Their three teams of designers are based in Milan, London and Pondicherry.

Hidesign features a range of competitively priced men and women’s bags, luggage, and accessories. Last year, we reviewed their Hector 17″ Backpack, which we found to be attractive, functional, and reasonably priced. Keep an eye out for a review of the Cerys Multi-Compartment Tote, coming soon. Hidesign often runs great sales, so keep an eye on their website to save on their already competitively priced items.

January 22, 2016December 19, 2017

Kendal & Hyde Announce Modular Leather Briefcase Kickstarter

After half a dozen incredibly successful Kickstarter campaigns, Kendal & Hyde Co. has launched a new line of modular leather briefcases and computer bags. Their first Kickstarter in 2014 was a computer bag, and this is an updated, reworked design with modular features.

The Kendal & Hyde briefcase comes in four styles, two depths and four colors. You can then add extra pockets, pouches, luggage tags, waterbottle holders, and more, to make a personalized briefcase that suits your needs.

The briefcases have multiple divisions and pockets to help you keep things organized. In addition to the main chamber, the briefcase has a computer pocket that holds a 15″ MacBook Pro or smaller laptop; a tablet pocket that fits a standard iPad or smaller tablet; two pen holders; a wide pocket with a cover flap for a computer recharger cord; and a 4.5″ tight pocket behind the recharger pocket.

Each briefcase will retail for $600, but are discounted to $450 as a Kickstarter preorder. The Kickstarter is already funded, but you can still get a great deal on these sturdy bags and accessories.

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January 20, 2016December 19, 2017

Timberland Boot Company Men’s Wodehouse Wing Boots – $300

Men’s Footwear is an enormous industry with thousands of designs, producers, and materials. But when it comes down to it, leather boots are without a doubt the longest lasting and highest quality sector of the trade. Timberland has established itself as a powerhouse in the Men’s Boots industry since 1973, but The Timberland Boot Company is a relatively new addition to Timberland. This new addition is focused on producing boots that are inspired by early craftsmanship along with modern influences. Today I’ll be taking a look at Timberland’s Men’s Wodehouse Wing Boots.

About

“Timberland can trace its roots all the way back to 1920s Boston, where Nathan Schwartz began his career as an apprentice stitcher. Schwartz and his family grew the company and, in the 1950s introduced an innovative injection-molding technique that allowed them to waterproof their boots. In 1973, they introduced the “Timberland” brand, and the rest is history. Timberland is now a huge clothing and footwear brand that operates stores worldwide. Their company headquarters are in Stratham, New Hampshire.” The Timberland Boot Company has developed into the high quality, heritage craftsmanship part of Timberland, which is something we can appreciate here at BestLeather.

Construction

The Wodehouse Wing Boots are constructed using full-grain leather that has been hand finished to give the boot a worn-in look. These wing boots are easily scuffed and marked, which I think makes for an attractive patina that complements their vintage look.

The boots have a leather outsole with a rubber heel so the boots have both flexibility and traction. The molded leather midsole adds to the vintage look, as well as the tooled wingtip toes and tooled leather detail on the upper stitching. The shoes are almost entirely leather, with the exception of the rubber heel and the waxed cotton laces. There are no metal eyelets or other details to distract from the leather and its patina. The metal zipper on the inside of the shoe is very sturdy and easy to use. I was not too excited about having zippers on my boots, but over time and from hundreds of zips I have become quite fond of this feature and appearance.

Aesthetic

The Wing Boots come in two colors – Red Brown and Dark Grey. My Red Brown boots are quite versatile and just bright enough to add interest to nearly any outfit. The boots look terrific with or without cuffed denim and are extremely comfortable. I definitely could wear the Wodehouse Wing boots all day long and be comfortable, which is something that I could not say about a lot of other shoes I own. The only aspect of this boot I found a little unfortunate is that the midsole is very easily scuffed. I don’t mind scuffs or marks—in fact I enjoy adding character to my boots—but the midsole develops a little too many marks and scrapes for my taste. Timberland recommends some boot and shoe refresher so I think if I touched them up a bit most of the scrapes and scuffs will go away.

Conclusion

I have amassed a pretty decent collection of quality footwear, but I find myself wearing the Timberland Wodehouse Wing Boots quite frequently. The comfort level, the expert construction and vintage appearance combine seamlessly into a high-quality boot that have convinced me to purchase again from the Timberland Boot Company. Head over to their website and check out all of their quality, attractive men’s footwear, especially in the Timberland Boot Company line, and be on the lookout for more Timberland reviews to come.

January 13, 2016December 19, 2017

Satchel and Page Black Calfskin Cafe Racer Jacket Review – $560

If you do not have leather jacket in your wardrobe, I highly advise you to start saving up to buy one. A leather jacket is one of the most timeless accessories you can own. Whether you’re looking for a riding jacket, aviation jacket, or just a leather jacket to add to your style, you are in the right place. Satchel and Page has a knack for making high quality, beautiful, and timeless leather products. This time around I have the privilege of reviewing the Satchel and Page Café Racer.

About

Based out of Austin, Texas, Satchel & Page is dedicated to producing handmade, high quality leather products. Each of their leather products has been designed with WWII and 1940s influences. As I’m sure you know, Satchel & Page has launched several of their product lines via extremely successful Kickstarter campaigns. The leather jacket campaign has proven to be a fabulously successful venture for this awesome company, with many, many people backing and supporting it to get a hold of one of these jackets, and for good reason.

Construction

The Café Racer leather jacket is constructed using full-grain French calf leather that has been vegetable re-tanned. The vegetable re-tanning process has made the black leather resistant to scratches and nicks, and designed to age in the best way possible. The calf leather is a perfect choice to use in the construction of a leather jacket because it is softer, smoother, and lighter than regular cow leather. The Café Racer also boasts seven YKK zippers, a satin/cotton blend fabric for the internal lining, and higher armholes for the sleeves. The armholes are designed in this high stature to give it the racy, tight fit throughout the tailored body. The jacket has been skillfully constructed with some of the most premium materials possible, and in the eight months I have had this jacket, I have not found one insufficiency.

Function

I have had this jacket for a very long time. It’s one of the only products I have consistently used for several months before I put together a review. In my opinion, waiting this long to review this Café Racer jacket has been a good decision. I have had the opportunity to wear this jacket for roughly 4,000 miles of motorcycle riding in 2015 and numerous social outings. I am thoroughly in love with how this jacket performs when I’m riding and in everyday activities. The tight fit (now a little tighter cause of some weight gain) is perfect for riding. There is no flapping or drag while riding my motorcycle and certainly no complaints on the appearance of my jacket.

The Café Racer functions flawlessly in cold and warm weather. In cold weather the YKK zippers on the sleeves expand for just enough room to get your riding gloves on and zip back down for a nice, snug fit to keep the cold air from running up your arms. In warmer weather, keep the main zipper unzipped a little bit and open up the sleeve zippers for a comfortable riding temperature. The Café Racer leather jacket has functioned without an issue since day one, and shows no signs of stopping. Whether I’m riding though some twisties on my motorcycle or bundled up with a beanie and a scarf, the Café Racer leather jacket has proven to be a staple in my wardrobe.

Aesthetic

I’m not going to lie, I get a lot of looks when I’m riding my all black street bike wearing my black leather jacket with a black leather satchel on my back. Aside from the egotistical positives this jacket offers, it truly is stunning all of the time. The black leather is soft, pliable, and perfect in every aspect. The no-nonsense attitude this jacket exudes is just plain attractive. This classic design certainly isn’t going anywhere, and I’m positive this jacket will last for decades to come.

Conclusion

I am thoroughly impressed with the Satchel & Page Café Racer leather jacket. The premium materials, heritage roots, and overall superior quality come together to make an investment like this too good to pass up. With a fair price of $560, this leather jacket will last for longer than you’ll be able to wear it. Head over to the Satchel & Page website to check out their beautiful leather products, and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram. If you act fast you can get a $70 coupon that lasts through Thursday; buying this jacket will be a decision you will not regret.

January 7, 2016December 19, 2017

CRUSHED LEATHER CO MINIMAL CARRY REVIEW – $195

A nice leather bag is one of those things that many people consider an investment worth working for. As many can already agree, finding the ‘perfect’ leather bag that looks good, last a long time, fits in the budget, and functions the way it is supposed to is surprisingly difficult. More times than not, consumers end up buying a cheap mass produced bag that works but does not offer many of the aforementioned qualities. Introducing Crushed Leather Company’s entry into the leather bag market–the Minimalist Carry. It has the looks, durability, functionality, and fairly reasonable price. Let’s take a closer look at how this bag stands up to the test.

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ABOUT CRUSHED LEATHER CO

Brant Stock, the brains behind Crushed Leather Co, is a product developer and chiropractor based in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. After several months and several prototypes later, Brant had the final product for the Crushed Leather Minimalist Carry. He strived for over-kill durability to offer a bag that will stand up to not one, not two, but three lifetimes. It will be interesting to see what other products they release because I genuinely like the overall design of their first product.

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CONSTRUCTION

As stated on Crushed Leather’s website, the construction is top notch. “You won’t have any issues. It’s built for over-kill durability.” I can certainly agree after further inspection of the bag. As you can see from the photos, most of the seams have been triple stitched. The bag is extremely sturdy and has incredible structure from the nylon webbing that the bag and strap are lined with. A smart design feature of this bag is having the strap go around the entire bag, eliminating the worry that the strap will detach like in many bags of this style. Upon unboxing the bag, I noticed a slightly strong odor coming from the bag, but this has started to go away after using the bag. Overall it is built quite nicely and I am excited to see how it ages.

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FUNCTIONALITY

This bag was much smaller and lighter than I thought it was before I saw it in person. One thing you have to remind yourself of is that this bag is not trying to replace backpacks or briefcases. As you notice from the photos, my non-retina 13 inch MacBook Pro was almost struggling to fit since the leather strap that goes over it was a bit short in length. If you are lugging around an iPad or smaller laptop, no need to worry. In addition to my MacBook Pro, I managed to fit three full folders and a small textbook and of course my phone, wallet, a couple pens, and keys in the provided spaces. For the intended use, which is the carry your everyday items in minimal simplicity, it just about hits a home run.

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AESTHETIC

I personally really like the aesthetic of this bag. It is simple with clean lines and quality brass hardware to compliment the nice brown color of the leather. I do not usually wear a suit and tie, but I imagine it would look professional yet subtle with this pairing. This is a great all around bag ideal for business, school, or trips to the coffee shop.

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CONCLUSION

This is the Minimal Carry, with an emphasis on the Minimal. In my opinion, any product that can lessen the amount of stuff we carry around with us is a plus. After spending some time with the Crushed Leather Carry and seeing how it works with my schedule, I can really appreciate a bag like this. It is well constructed, classic looking, and forces me to just take what I need when I head off to class. Once in hand, this bag certainly impressed me and is deserving of a consideration in your next leather bag purchase. The Crushed Leather Co Minimal Carry can be purchased for $195 for a limited time, then the price jumps to $275. As far as I can tell from my time with the Minimal Carry, this is a fair price point for a bag with a Triple Lifetime Guarantee. The bag is available for purchase through Crushed Leather Company’s website.

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December 29, 2015December 19, 2017

Wilsons Leather Contemporary Lamb Topper Coat Review – $569.99

Looking good is the last thing on your mind when it’s freezing out and you can’t feel your fingers and toes. If you’ve lived in the northern tier of the continental United States, you have an acute understanding of the meaning of the word “winter”. As we get further into December and closer to the New Year, I’m pretty ecstatic that Wilsons Leather asked me to review their Contemporary Lamb Topper Coat. Given that the last few weeks in Spokane have been filled with snow, wind, and cold weather, it was a perfect time to give the jacket thorough consideration as a winter coat.

About

Sometimes the company says it best. In this case, we’re going to let Wilsons Leather tell you a little bit about them:

Wilsons Leather is a leading specialty retailer of quality accessories and outerwear. Currently operating under two formats, we offer fashion and value through an assortment of designer brands and special purchases for both men and women. Categories include outerwear and accessories such as handbags, briefcases and travel items. While holding tight to our leather roots, we also carry an assortment of additional fabrications such as wool, cotton and faux-leather to give our customers more options. Our e-commerce site offers an extension of our store experience and is intended to increase brand awareness.

Wilsons Leather has been around for a long time and understands the business of providing quality leather goods at prices appealing to leather enthusiasts.

Construction

The outer shell of the jacket is genuine chrome-tanned lambskin, with Thinsulate® insulation and a polyester interior liner. The image on the Wilsons Leather web site boasts an open-slit pocket on the left chest, but you won’t find one on this jacket (the description on the site indicates that pocket doesn’t exist either). That leaves you with two open flap pockets four buttons on each cuff, a 3-button placket, and a slit tail to allow for easy movement.

The stitching is black, non-contrasting, polyester thread that I found to be well done without any loose threads or uneven stitching, something I’d expect in a jacket of this caliber and price range. Overall weight is 3 pounds, 5 ounces (1.48 kilograms), making it light in its class for 3/4-length leather jacket designed for colder temperatures.

Function

A jacket like this is going to serve dual purposes: keeping you warm and looking good. It succeeds on both accounts. I spent an hour walking outside in 20º (F) weather in downtown Spokane, and felt comfortable; I wasn’t sweating, and wasn’t cold. It fit well over the sweater I was wearing without constriction. It fits to a few inches above my knees comfortably, without restricting any movement due to the slit tail in the back.

One concern I have is that the jacket opens into a “V” about 3/4 of the way up without the possibility of further closure. Should you find yourself in the middle of downpour or snowstorm, that part of your suit or sweater is going to get wet. This is a traditional design for many coats like this, so a scarf would be one easy way to keep the snow or rain out.

The two front pockets (remember there is no breast pocket) will let you hold a wallet and phone without making unsightly bulges in the jacket, though a ring of keys or pair of mittens might be too much. Due to the angle of the pockets, you can’t really use them to keep your hands warm, but they will provide great security for anything you place in them.

Aesthetic

The first time I wore this coat, I was impressed with how it fit my frame. In coats, a size large will often feel tight across my shoulders, but this topper gave me plenty of room while conforming to my body type. Made of lambskin, you can’t help but notice the soft feel of the outer shell. With a coat this size, you might expect it to be heavy, but thanks to the Thinsulate® layer, the jacket remains light while you stay warm. The buttons on the coat are large and non-contrasting, meaning you’ll be able to manipulate them even when wearing gloves.

The overall look of the jacket is very professional, and will match well with your suit or business casual attire. Paired with a nice scarf and gloves, you’ll have no worries about staying warm and looking good at the same time.

Conclusion

I really do like the Contemporary Lamb Topper Coat, even having experienced the aforementioned snow attacking the open “V” design of the jacket. I really should have had a scarf on that day in the first place. The quality of the jacket is quite good, with nice stitching, materials, and overall construction. This jacket isn’t one you’re going to wear while you’re out chopping wood, but will lend itself admirably to your business formal/casual wardrobe.

With Wilsons Leather, you’re never going to pay the full MSRP. At the time of this review, the jacket lists on their site for $569.99, marked down from $850.00. With the site-wide 60% off sale going on, that brings the price down to $342.00. Some savvy shoppers who have access to a Wilsons Leather outlet may be able to wrangle an even better deal. For a coat of this size and quality, that is right in the ballpark of what you should be expecting to pay.

With proper care, this jacket will last you for the years to come. Always hang it up, dry clean only when needed, and don’t let it get wet. It’s the basics of leather care, but these caveats will serve you well when caring for your expensive leather garments.

December 21, 2015December 19, 2017

Ekster Announces High Tech Wallet with Security and Trackability

Ekster was founded in Rotterdam and inspired by a bird called the “Magpie”, also known as an “Ekster” in the Netherlands. Magpies are often referred to as “thieving magpies” due to their tendency to track down shiny objects such as jewelry and coins. This inspired their trackable wallet with anti-theft measures.

The Ekster Wallet is now on Kickstarter, featuring spring loaded card access, a slim profile, RFID/NFC blocking technology, and a tracker that synchronizes with your smartphone. Their goal has been met, but you can still take advantage of discount Kickstarter prices that are slated to ship mid-2016.

Tracking App

The tracker inside the Ekster wallet synchronizes with your iOs or Android phone via Bluetooth. The PROTAG app connects to your wallet — providing two-way protection. You’ll be alerted when you leave your wallet behind and can ring or locate it with the map function. Lost your phone? When pressing the reverse tracking button on your wallet, your phone will start ringing — even when on silent mode. Ekster’s crowd GPS network will help you find your wallet when out of range. When a PROTAG user is within range of your lost item, you receive a GPS update. Ekster’s tracker battery lasts up to six months and is easily rechargeable using the slim, built-in USB port.

RFID Blocking
Credit and debit cards issued within the past decade have RFID and NFC technology embedded in them. Cards with this technology can be activated and duplicated from a distance, making your data vulnerable. The Ekster wallet blocks out all signals with its aluminum cardholder, keeping users protected against data theft.

Instant Card Access
Ekster wallets provide storage space for up to eight cards in the Senate edition and up to 12 cards in the Parliament edition. Users can enjoy quick access for up to five cards with the click of a button using Ekster’s spring-loaded mechanism.

Ekster smart wallets are available for preorder on Kickstarter. Early-bird pricing starts at $79 for the Senate model and $89 for the Parliament model in either coffee brown or black leather. Check out their Kickstarter for more details.

December 18, 2015December 19, 2017

Minimum Squared Black Leather Wallet With Deep Red Thread Review – $158.00

Vince Lombardi described success in dozens of ways over the course of his 15-year career as an NFL head coach, notably remarking “The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work; work is the key to success, and hard work can help you accomplish anything.” Passion for the craft is an emotion that drives us to work hard and design with inspiration, whether on the field of play or in the workshop. Lombardi would also be the first to admit that you didn’t achieve success on your own; it takes a team of dedicated individuals with similar goals and mindsets.

If you’ll pardon the extended metaphor, let’s take a look at the Minimum Squared Black Leather Wallet With Deep Red Thread and find out if it meets these definitions of success. As with many in the leather craft, inspiration for the wallet came when the creators were unable to find anything on the market meeting his functional and aesthetic requirements for his engineering-cum-traveler lifestyle. Through a fusion of traditional leather work, modern technology, and carefully sourced materials, the husband-wife team of Sanela Kadric and Adrian Martinez, owner/creators of Minimum Squared (also known as m^2) created a minimalist wallet they hoped will appeal to a worldwide audience.

About m^2

Sanela and I emailed back and forth quite a bit during the review process, and one thing you’ll appreciate about m^2 is their extraordinary attention to detail. Their journey to create m^2 began when Adrian’s travels by plane and train had him considering the need for a front-pocket wallet that wouldn’t be uncomfortable while seated. Furthermore, he wanted the wallet to hold all of his credit and bank cards, as well as look good next to a business suit.

Adrian spent hours on the Internet looking for a wallet that would meet his criteria:

The wallet should have the footprint of a business card and not be much thicker than its contents
There should be no need to fold paper money to provide quick access and keep fortunes discreet.
The wallet should hold international currencies (Sterling pounds and Euro notes) as well as US dollars
The wallet should have the same card-carrying capacity as more traditional non-minimalist wallets

After spending his time and engineering skills coming up with a “paper and staples” design, he and Sanela arrived upon a prototype that would become the current version of the m^2 wallet. With Sanela’s love for crafts and her job as a language instructor, she was able to help bring their mutual design to market. After much positive feedback, they formed Minimum Squared. New to the business, it was at that point that she stated, “After all, we didn’t think my husband was the only one in the world looking for such a wallet, and all the hard work was already done. How wrong I was.”

Construction

The construction of the wallet reflects Adrian’s engineering background and Sanela’s eye for art. While the leather for the wallet is a single-piece, CAD-designed, laser cut and thinned material, the thread holding it all together is a hand-sewn Fil au Chinois waxed linen thread that goes from one corner to the other. After testing several materials and leathers, they chose Harmatan & Oakridge vegetable-tanned goat leather for the grain, feel, and availability of colors. It also tends to offer some stiffness after being laser-thinned, an important characteristic for any wallet.

While some eschew goat leather as being inferior to cowhide, this wallet is one of the finest, lightweight hides I’ve reviewed. On giving it the “smell test”, as I do with every product, I was rewarded with that rich smell of fine leather I’ve come to expect in top end leather goods.

The wallet measures 92 x 65 x 15 mm (3.6 x 2.56 x 0.59 inches) when filled with 10 cards and weighs in at a mere 0.9 ounces (25.2 grams). After I added 6 bank cards and a few paper dollars, the weight went up to a little over 2 ounces (56 grams).

Function

My favorite feature of the wallet is the ability to pull paper currency out of the wallet without having to remove the entire stack of bills. While I am quite often lacking the aforementioned fat stack due to teenagers and orthodontia, it is a thoughtful feature ensuring the privacy of your current financial status. You can also store up to 10 cards in the wallet in such a way that you end up not stressing the leather or stitching as much as a traditional billfold. Friends of Sanela’s who tested the wallet have put more than 10 cards in it, and while it continued to function admirably, Sanela mentioned a bit of heartbreak in not using the wallet in the spirit of its minimalist intent.

It closes neatly via a woven elastic braid that Sanela sourced from an area close to her home in Spain. Closing it in this manner helps keep the wallet thin and compact. While I would question the long term durability of any elastic item, the braid is well-constructed; time will tell how it holds up.

Aesthetic

The beauty of the wallet lies in the aforementioned attention to detail and the materials Sanela uses to make these wallets. She uses a 40-year old Olivetti Studio 44 typewriter to create the wallet labels (and write thank you notes to customers). The length to width ratio is 1.40, a little off of the golden mean (1.61), but not enough that you’d notice. The full-grain goat leather has a nice texture you might find in a high-end pair of goatskin boots.