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(ENDED) Giveaway – Lombardi Leather Belt and Key Fob ($416 Value)

We are excited to announce a new giveaway we are running in partnership with Lombardi Leather where they will be giving away a their signature buckleless belt as well as some leather key fobs. Their belt is one of the coolest and most unique designs we have ever seen and you definitely want to have a chance at winning it. Keep reading below to learn more about the items being given away and how you can win them.

As mentioned above, this belt is really, really cool. Below is a snippet from our review:

The Lombardi belt is made with thick (probably around 8oz) vegetable-tanned full grain leather and thick stitching. Cutting and stitching is done by hand. The saddle stitch follows the entire edge of the belt, enhancing the look but also minimizing stretch in the belt over time. Construction is overall top notch, and only shows minimal variance that would be expected with a handmade product. The leather and thread is going to see a lot of wear and tear because of the design of this belt, but the materials are high caliber and should last for many years.

This is another area where the Lombardi buckleless belt differs itself quite a bit from the pack. I’m a big fan of how this belt looks. The twisted loop catches a lot of eyes. The stitching accents the folds and turns well so you can see easily how the closure works. I had some friends see the belt on my counter and doubt that it would look good, only to change their tune once I actually put it on and twisted the loop. This particular color, Brits Brown, is one of Lombardi’s best sellers, and for good reason. It’s good a deep red-brown hue that looks fantastic and fits in in nearly any situation.

See the full review of Lombardi Leather’s belt here.

Giveaway Details

The giveaway will run from now until midnight on May 16th. Once the giveaway ends we will announce the 3 winners and then get in contact with each one of them. The winners will have their items shipped to them within 1-2 weeks following the end of the giveaway. There are a handful of ways to enter the giveaway and you can do each one of them to insure the best chance at winning. The more entries you have in the giveaway the better chance you have at winning.

There will be 3 total winners:

1st Place: Lombardi Buckleless Leather Belt + Key Fob

2nd Place: Lombardi Buckleless Leather Belt

3rd Place: Key Fob

Enter the Giveaway Below:

[RF_CONTEST contest=’5266′]

 

 

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Lombardi Buckleless Leather Belt First Impressions – $149

A belt is overall a very simple product. It’s rare to see a lot of variance in how they work. Today we’re happy to introduce an exception to this standard. The Lombardi buckleless leather belt uses a special twisted loop of leather to hold the belt in place instead of the classic buckle. This belt is sure to stand out from the crowd while maintaining both quality and function.

About Lombardi

Francis Lombardi originally made one of his signature belts for himself. After enough questions and compliments had accrued, he decided to start making them for other people, and in 2012, Lombardi was formed. Lombardi prides itself on handcrafting all of their goods to be both stylish and of the highest caliber.

Construction & Leather

The Lombardi belt is made with thick (probably around 8oz) vegetable-tanned full grain leather and thick stitching. Cutting and stitching is done by hand. The saddle stitch follows the entire edge of the belt, enhancing the look but also minimizing stretch in the belt over time.

Construction is overall top notch, and only shows minimal variance that would be expected with a handmade product. The leather and thread is going to see a lot of wear and tear because of the design of this belt, but the materials are high caliber and should last for many years.

Function

This is where the Lombardi buckleless belt is really going to differ from most any other belt. I wasn’t sure what to expect before I actually was able to use it for myself. As you might expect, the twisted loop closure takes a bit of getting used to!

The method isn’t too complex. The thin end of the belt is passed through the two horizontal holes, turned down through the vertical ones, and then back over itself through the horizontal holes again, creating a tight loop. While this might sound strange, looking at the photos should help in understanding how this works, and instructions are included with the belt.

It was frankly a little frustrating at first. I had to develop a technique where I hold the belt in place while tying the loop to keep it from sliding. It was slow going, but I did get faster. I’m not sure this will ever be as quick as a standard pronged buckle, but it’s sort of like having buckles on a bag instead of a zipper or quick-release closures: it may take an extra moment or two, but there’s a reward for your extra effort. There’s no buckle, which is really nice in some situations, and the look is unmatched.

Most people that see this belt quickly ask if it really does hold tight like a buckled belt. Yes, it does. I’ve only been able to use this belt for a couple weeks, but so far I’ve had no issues at all. The twisted loop is very tight, and I don’t see this changing anytime soon.

Aesthetic

This is another area where the Lombardi buckleless belt differs itself quite a bit from the pack. I’m a big fan of how this belt looks. The twisted loop catches a lot of eyes. The stitching accents the folds and turns well so you can see easily how the closure works. I had some friends see the belt on my counter and doubt that it would look good, only to change their tune once I actually put it on and twisted the loop. This particular color, Brits Brown, is one of Lombardi’s best sellers, and for good reason. It’s good a deep red-brown hue that looks fantastic and fits in in nearly any situation.

Conclusion

The Lombardi buckleless leather belt is a stand-out belt both in look and function. The construction and materials are top notch, and should endure being looped around your waist for a good many years to come, looking better and better each time. It may take some getting used to, but if you’re looking for something unique to freshen up your belt loops, I recommend giving this belt your consideration.

Want a chance at winning this belt + other leather goods for free? Enter into the giveaway below!

[RF_CONTEST contest=’5266′]

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Minimum Squared Slim Wallet – €165

Typically we look to leather to provide us with very durable goods. To be honest, it can be rare to see a large amount of variation in the design of those products. That’s why the Minimum Squared Slim Wallet stands out quite a bit. It’s made with tried-and-true Chromexcel leather, but designed in a completely unique way. While remaining highly functional, the Slim Wallet is both beautiful and slim.

About Minimum Squared

Minimum Squared is the product of a couple, Adrian and Senala, who were seeking to fill a need of their own. This attempt was so successful that it became a commercial success. It began with their Red Dot Design Award-winning Slim Wallet Elastic, which we had the pleasure of reviewing a few years ago (check it out here for even more about Minimum Squared), and has evolved to a collection of four wallets. Today we’ll visit the Slim Wallet, a slightly modified version of their flagship wallet. We will also be reviewing the rest of their new models in the upcoming months.

Construction & Leather

When I first received the Slim Wallet and was looking it over, I realized something incredible: this is all one piece of leather! The leather is cleverly cut, folded, and stitched into a slim and highly functional wallet.

The leather is Horween Chromexcel, which means pull-up and a soft yet sturdy feel. The Chromexcel is some of the thinnest I’ve seen used. This allows the wallet to be extremely minimal and remain very functional, though it may prevent it from holding up for a lifetime. Chromexcel is, however, extremely durable, and the Slim Wallet will certainly last for many years to come.

Thread is polyester and saddle stitched, so both material and method are of the highest quality.

The Slim Wallet is cleverly designed, uses fantastic materials, and is expertly assembled.

Function

The Slim Wallet is a pleasure to use. The amount it can hold and remain as slim as it does, complements of the thin Chromexcel and clever one-piece design, is truly incredible. Both cards and currency are easy to place and easy to remove.

The four card pockets can hold a total of 10 credit cards. Each of these pockets is designed just so to hold either two or three cards. Sometimes card pockets need some real break-in to make cards easy to access, but not so with the Slim Wallet. The smooth chromexcel and perfectly sized pockets make them slide in and out with ease from day one.

The cash pocket is uniquely designed in that one side isn’t stitched closed. This makes it easy to hold open the cash pocket, see all of your bills or receipts, and remove and replace them quickly. There is much less push and pull on the bills you don’t need to access.

The Slim Wallet remains very thin even with a full load of cash and cards. This is even more impressive considering the width and height–as Minimum Squared intended, it’s barely larger than the profile of the credit cards it’s meant to hold. This is the only folded wallet I’ve managed to forget was in my pocket. It also fits really well in the hands when you’re using it.

The only functional difference between the Slim Wallet and the Slim Wallet Elastic, as you might be able to guess, is the elastic. This means the Slim Wallet will need to be closed with the thin flap hidden behind the full-sized folds. In addition, the Slim Wallet is only offered in Chromexcel, where the Elastic is only offered in goat leather.

Aesthetic

The look of the Slim Wallet is simple and understated. It’s hard to go wrong with Horween’s color #8. It’s a gorgeous deep red, and the Slim Wallet shows it off well. The design itself is very aesthetic as well, particularly when you take a closer look and realize how clever it is. There aren’t any rough edges exposed, only smooth folds. Stitching is impressively uniform (and can be a variety of colors of your choosing). The Slim Wallet is beautiful in its functionality and simplicity, not from any excess or flashiness.

Conclusion

Minimum Squared’s Slim Wallet is a fantastic evolution of their award-winning Elastic. It’s one of the most clever designs I’ve ever seen. Yet this clever design is not at all just for the sake of being clever or for looks: the Slim Wallet is pure functionality. The surprising amount of cards and cash it can hold are always easy to access, and the slim form won’t take up almost any space in your pocket. All of this functionality doesn’t sacrifice the Slim Wallet’s simple and beautiful look. It’s certainly on the pricey side, but you’re getting what you pay for. I highly recommend this excellent wallet.

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Range Leather Co. Travellr XL Kickstarter – First Impressions

Range Leather Co. returns to the crowdfunding scene with a new, larger version of their Travellr dopp kit, and they’ve sent us one to give you our first impressions. This quality leather toiletry bag is made with thick Horween leather that looks fantastic and will do a great job holding and protecting all of your essentials. They also have an active Kickstarter campaign that will allow you to pick one of these up when you pledge at least $100. You can check out their Kickstarter page here.

About Range Leather Co.

We’ve had the pleasure of working with Range Leather Co. quite a bit here at BestLeather, from several reviews (including the original Travellr) to our exclusive three-part interview with founder Kyle Koster. In their workshop is in Laramie, Wyoming, they make products by hand that will “wear in, not out.” Check out the Range Leather Co. website to see their variety of everyday-carry and grooming leather products.

Construction & Leather

The Travellr XL is a very rugged dopp kit, made with thick, full grained Horween Buccaneer leather. There’s really no question that your items will be very well protected. Buccaneer is a pull-up leather. Not only does it have a slight color change effect when pulled, but this means that the waxes it has been stuffed with will help it resist water. Water splashed on the outside of this dopp will roll right off. It’s worth noting that no leather that hasn’t been sealed is completely waterproof. In addition, the underside of the leather (inside the dopp) will absorb water quickly.

I like that all the stitching on the ends of the Travellr XL is turned inward. This means those stitches are protected from any snags. The YKK zipper is very sturdy and reasonably smooth. The carrying strap is secured with copper rivets.

Should there be any issues with the construction at any point, Range Leather Co. offers a lifetime warranty to back up their products.

Function

Functionally, a dopp kit is ultimately a very simple product. As you might expect from the name, the new Travellr XL can hold a good amount of toiletries. I was able to fit an electric toothbrush, toothpaste, two deodorants, beard trimmer, retainer (wearing faithfully for 7 years now!), sore throat spray, glasses case, and contacts case. None of these products were travel size!

In addition to the spacious size, the Travellr XL features a carry strap on one side and a hanging ring on the other. One thing I wish was added is some form of organizational pocket, whether inside or outside of the bag.

Aesthetic

No doubt about it: this is a stunning dopp kit. The single-piece construction is nicely streamlined, and the pull up leather is simultaneously rugged and gorgeous. To some, a dopp may not be high on their priority list for items that must look good. I personally value being able to regularly use something that is not only functional, but beautiful. Makes life just that little bit better!

Conclusion

I haven’t been able to spend too much time with the Range Leather Co. Travellr XL, but more than enough to know this is a great product that I’m happy to recommend. Construction is top notch, materials are sturdy, the look is gorgeous. In addition, Range Leather Co. backs it all up with a lifetime guarantee. Swing by their already fully-funded Kickstarter and check it out.

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Da Luca Straps – Pauscovitz, Brennan, Blundtund

We’ve recently had the opportunity to team up as watch-wearing BestLeather writers to show you a few different offerings from Da Luca Straps. You may remember Da Luca from our review of one of their NATO straps a few years back. Da Luca is still hand-making high caliber watch straps, and today we’d like to show you the Pauscovitz, Brennan, and Blundtund.

Pauscovitz Watch Strap Review – $220

The Pauscovitz is a 22mm Swiss Army ammo pouch leather strap. I received this strap to be paired with my 42mm Apple Watch. The leather is incredibly thick and rugged! This might be a good thing, since the vintage leather may not last as long as freshly tanned leather. This strap should last for ages. The leather is skived significantly near the watch so it can fit around the pins.

I love the marks and stitches that came from the ammo pouch, and was bummed when a couple of these stitches fell out after a few weeks. The stitching actually done by Da Luca is done well and has held strong. I had to clip off the ends of the thread, but I wondered if this was intentional to match the vintage style. Overall it looks fantastic, and I’ve received quite a few compliments.

The buckle is very large, and matches the incredible thickness of the leather well. I thought it would press into my wrist, but it’s never once bothered me. Originally the strap’s width actually struggled to slide through the buckle, but over time the strap has worn in and things have become more smooth. While I did get a good fit right in the middle, I wish there was more sizing holes.

The pricing on the Pauscovitz is definitely on the luxury end, which makes sense, as Da Luca originally made their straps for Panerai brand watches. In comparison, this strap would seem like a pittance, though it’s over half the cost of my Apple Watch! It is made quite well and looks fantastic. The vintage ammo pouch leather is somewhat rare, as well. If the look suits your fancy this sort of strap may be for you.

Review Written by Bobby

More Pictures of the Pauscovitz Watch Strap

Brennan Watch Strap Review – $170

This watch strap from Da Luca is particularly adept at fitting in almost anywhere. Made of premium Horween color 8 shell cordovan means it’s built to last. It’s made of a single layer and unlined so the stitching is purely for aesthetics, but it looks great and stays lightweight. One nice touch, that I haven’t seen on many bands, is the edges of the band where it’s folded for the spring bars of the watch are skived to be a bit thinner. This gives the band a very uniform thickness.

If there was fault to be had it’s that there is only the single floating keeper. I typically prefer two keepers, one stitched and stationary and the other floating. As with all luxury goods, value is arbitrary and I’m of the option that if it’s what you want it’s worth the price. Da Luca has tons of designs and leathers to pick from so check them out and see if you can find the next accessory to go with the mechanical marvel on your wrist.

Review Written by Caleb

More Pictures of the Brennen Watch Strap

Blundtlund Watch Strap Review – $205

The Blundtlund strap is one of the vintage straps Da Luca offers to accommodate watches with 22mm lug widths. It is made from Swiss Ammo Pouch leather with notable thickness. This is a much thicker strap than your typical two-piece leather strap. The specific color is a light caramel color that I presume will eventually patina to a darker brown color. It goes well with black or white dialed watches. Being that this is a full stitch strap and not particularly dressy, I’d say it makes a great strap for everyday and casual wear. With that in mind, I suggest it pairs well with field watches such as the Hamilton Khaki models as well as big-faced watches such as Panerai and aviation-style watches.

The buckle has a nice brushed finish with signed logo. The strap uses two keepers to secure the excess strap when wearing. I’ve got about 6.5 inch wrists, and usually used the second to smallest hole when sizing. For a watch with a larger lug to lug length, the middle hole served me well. The strap does come with spring bar tubes for certain panerai models, but unless your watch is made to handle spring bar tubes or has drilled lugs, I would avoid trying to use them.

In contrast to other quality leather straps I own, I’d say this one is built tough enough to handle more than just fall-winter wear without fear of rapid degrading. The thickness of the strap is very solid, able to easily withstand cold winters as well as a little bit of sweat during the summer. Throughout my months of use, the strap holes have held up with no fear of expanding past expected limits. As with any leather strap, I’d suggest not swimming with it.

As has been mentioned, value for luxury items like this is relative to the watches and owners it will be attached to. Quality straps can be had for less, but likely not on par with Da Luca’s buckle, full stitching, and somewhat rare leather. I honestly am impressed with the Da Luca Blundtlund strap. It has held up, its stunning, and seems like an excellent daily strap for me.

Review Written by Mike

More Pictures of the Blundtlund Watch Strap

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Brookes & Hyde Chocolate Porter Dopp Kit – $200

The dopp kit (sometimes known more simply as a toiletry bag) is a simple but crucial accessory for any traveler. The Brookes & Hyde Chocolate Porter Dopp Kitt maintains this simple functionality, but enhances use with high end materials and a refined look.

About Brookes & Hyde

While Brookes & Hyde has grown since we reviewed their sunglasses case, the company continues as a one man show out of Cincinnati, Ohio. Connor Sambrookes started Brookes & Hyde as a senior thesis project. Hoping to design shoes, he began work for a company designing products for some of the biggest names out there. It was at this job the opportunity to apprentice under a highly experienced leather craftsman came about, leading to creating his own products and founding the company.

Construction

This dopp kit is assembled very well. Leather is cut and stitched by machine for precision. Most seams are turned inward or double stitched, enhancing durability. You may not think a dopp kit would need to be especially sturdy, but it goes through quite a bit: tossed into and pulled out of bags often during travel, opened and closed frequently, and usually in danger of getting wet. Brookes & Hyde’s dopp is made to endure these abuses.

The leather selection for the dopp is spot on: Horween Plush. This is a chrome tanned leather (read: water resistance) that has been fully vegetable re-tanned. You’re getting the best of both worlds. The leather is milled with waxes, which makes it more water resistant and adds sheen and softness. The main compartment is lined with black canvas.

While it may not take the kind of abuse we need an EDC bag to endure, the kit is built well and suited to its use. Plush leather is great to feel, use, and look at, and has endured well so far.

Function

As I mentioned, a dopp kit isn’t a complex product. This one features a large main compartment, a small external pocket (this might be used for letting your toothbrush air out while on the counter during a trip), and a handle on the end for carrying from bag to bathroom. The RiRi zipper is very smooth. There is a thin rigid material between the canvas and leather on the base, giving a bit of structure, but the kit is otherwise soft and easily flattened. Water initially rolls off the leather, though will absorb if left sitting.

The kit is large enough to hold all of my admittedly simple toiletries with plenty of room to spare. I do enjoy the external pocket, but do wish there was small internal pockets for organizing especially small toiletries.

This dopp kit will keep your items completely private, but this does mean some added effort at the TSA terminals.

Aesthetic

This might be my favorite part of this product: it looks incredible sitting on your counter. As with many high end items, you’re buying both a product and an experience. I’m used to using a simple translucent plastic toiletry bag, so this was a huge upgrade. The Plush leather looks soft and begs you to handle it, but also has a nice shine. The grain is visible in a subtle way. The zipper is a solid contrasting silver. It’s the type of product that makes you smile when you know you get to use it.

My dopp kit here is the “Chocolate Porter” color, which typically looks a very true brown. However, as you can see in the photos, the lighting can change this a bit–you might say it ranges from milk to dark chocolate!

Conclusion

The Brookes & Hyde Chocolate Porter Dopp Kitt is an excellent, high end toiletry bag that is made well for its intended purpose. It’s a pleasure to use. The price point is on the high end, but both the leather and zipper are high end materials and construction leaves little to be desired. I recommend this product for those who want to enhance their travel experience with a dopp kitt that is both homey and luxurious.

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SNPR Crazy Horse Strap Review – $265.00

I was at Costo awhile back stocking up on gallon mayonnaise and 48 pack Cliff bars. Between pilfering the Ferrero Rocher sample stand and looking for my wife, I came across the jewelry cases. Looking through the glass I saw the watches steadily climb in quality and price until I hit the grail piece at the end, a Panerai listed at a cool $10k. Scrutinizing the piece I noticed the strap and was unimpressed. I mean, it was nice of course but looked a tad skimpy and sterile. My humble Hamilton had a much nicer strap, a SNPR Crazy Horse Strap.

This piece tends to exude a spirit of adventure

Construction

We’ve reviewed one of SNPR’s designs in the past, so we were no strangers to the solid build quality. However, the Crazy Horse leather is new to SNPR’s lineup.

When asked about the leather itself, SNPR replied Crazy Horse Leathers are made by applying a special kind of wax to a full grain leather surface that has been buffed and smoothed out. The type of wax used rests independently upon the leather fibers allowing the coloration of the leather surface to change if rubbed without the colors immediately reversing back. This process of rubbing and altering the color shades is what causes the antique appearance and is exactly what the craze for this leather is all about.

Tons of character exhibited in the handmade craftsmanship

This American sourced leather is about 4mm thick, or roughly two  Washington quarters stacked. The thread is 4 ply nylon cord. The watch features 4 arbor pressed notches which should accommodate anywhere from a 6” to 7.75” inch wrist. The buckle is a torched stainless steel.

Function

I’ll be the first to admit, sometimes a thick leather band isn’t always the most comfortable feeling on the wrist. Thankfully though, the Crazy Horse leather is remarkably pliable. In about a week it was already as flexible and soft as my Horween SNPR strap that is more than 2 years old. My wrist is about 7” and I was between notches but previous experience led me to use the tighter fitting and the leather accommodated to my wrist in no time resulting in a very custom fit.

The thick leather helps keep the collar of my shirts back for easy time reading

It’s been pretty frigid on the east coast this winter and the Crazy Horse had a lot of wrist time in low temps, I’m happy to report no chaffing on the wrist or stiffening of the leather in the cold. Since the weather here is as predictable as my ex, I also got to wear this watch in 70 degree weather and handles warm weather nicely. Usually I switch to a NATO strap when Summer hits but thanks to the high quality leather and the notches, it breathes quite well and I can expect all season wear.

Aesthetic

The Crazy Horse is a seemingly understated strap at first glance. It lacks a glossy finish and exhibits a more matte coloring. I really like how it adds to the appeal of my watch, rather than competes with it. I can liken it to a 1969 Camaro with classic American Racing Torq Thrust rims as opposed to 20” chromes.

The pull up on this leather is exquisite. You can bend the strap and see the oils disperse and then rub them back over. The leather almost seems pre distressed and lends well to the vintage look. One of my favorite features on this strap is the torched buckle. It has a pearlescent quality as the colors seem to morph when exposed to light. If torched is a little too exuberant, you can opt for stainless steel, PVD, Vintage PVD or polished.  Another note, this particular strap is 22mm at the lugs, but tapers to 20mm for a less bulky and more refined presentation.

Conclusion

I won’t beat around the bush, $265 is a very costly figure, and some won’t understand how a strap can cost more than a decent watch. However, these straps are usually paired with watches that range into the thousands. The quality is there, the craftsmanship is there. SNPR Straps Crazy Horse is the quintessential rugged brown leather strap.

  

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E3 Supply Co. Horween Leather Watch Band for Apple Watch – $69

Continuing E3’s trend of making very cool gear aimed at the riders of their custom motorcycles, today we’ll be looking at E3 Supply Co’s Horween Leather Watch Band for Apple Watch. This rugged strap features chromexcel, military style hardware, and a great look for most occasions.

About E3 Supply Co.

E3 Supply Co. began from a passion for building custom motorcycles, and has now extended to creating killer leather accessories for their riders. The company prides itself on hand making each product from start to finish, all at their headquarters in Brooklyn. As far as companies go E3 is as cool as they come. I highly recommend following their Instagram, which includes cross-country camper adventures, musical pursuits, and, of course, plenty of leather.

Construction

Hand construction on this watch strap is extremely well done. This is a fairly simple product, but in many ways this makes the little things stand out even more. Edges are cut well, the pair of stitches are seamless, and the skiving and glueing are smooth. I see no flaws in the assembly of this strap. 

The chromexcel leather and steel, military style hardware are carefully selected for quality control and should endure a lifetime of abuse. This leaves the stitching as the weakest link (true of most leather products), but the minimum amount of high quality waxed thread should hold up equally long.

Function

The great construction extends to a well functioning strap. Buckle holes are placed over a wide range and with minimal separation–which is good, as the strap will stretch a bit with use, and you’ll probably need a tighter hole or two over time. The quality leather and hardware make it easy to get your watch off and on, and it feels great on your wrist. Chromexcel isn’t waterproof, but this strap has endured rain and spills with no issue.

If you work a computer job like I do, the hardware can become painful when your wrist is resting on a desk. This is an issue most any watch strap, short of a button stud, will face, and the heavy duty hardware on the E3 strap is no exception.

Overall, the E3 Apple Watch strap functions very well.

Aesthetic

I won’t lie; I’m not a big fan of the Apple Watch’s look. Never have been. The square watch doesn’t suit my fancy. Thankfully, a good strap can do a lot to compensate for this. E3’s Horween strap executes this well. It adds a rugged, masculine feel to the watch. The lines of the leather add rigidity and the curves of the hardware complement the curves of the Apple Watch. It all works together really well.

I have the silver Apple Watch, and the natural chromexcel strap is great for a more casual look, where the black chromexcel version feels a bit more classy for dress up occasions (black on silver). E3 has options that fit whether you want a unique feel, something to match your outfit, or something to match your watch.

Conclusion

I’ve been using E3 Supply Co’s Horween Leather Watch Band for Apple Watch for several months. I still enjoy putting it on every day. It feels both rugged and refined simultaneously. It enhances the look of the Apple Watch significantly. It’s not completely ideal for use while at a desk, but otherwise works well in nearly every situation. I highly recommend this Buy It For Life product.

E3 Supply. Co. makes their Apple Watch straps in a variety of styles out of numerous Horween leathers. Check out the selection in their shop!

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TheGoodLifeLeather Transformer Valet Tray Review – $129

As my past reviews might indicate, I’m somewhat of a frequent traveler. Whether through the week on work trips or weekend trips for leisure, I tend to put my travel equipment through frequent use. Through a discussion with some friends, I got word of the Transformer Valet Tray/Travel pouch created by Luis at The Good Life leather. Truthfully I had no idea what the product looked like so I went ahead and contacted Luis about the product. He was happy to make and send one to BestLeather, having confidence that it is a product that myself as well as readers would love. 

The large size tray holds a good amount of everyday carry items.

About TheGoodLife Leather Co.

 A little about Luis Estrada, he owns and operates TheGoodLife Leather as a part-time project and specializes in handcrafted, made-to-order goods. A one man shop, he creates quality pieces using some of the best materials available. With leather craft as a side business to his primary career, it was made clear to me that he cuts no corners in getting great products out to customers in a reasonable time span. His standout product, the Transformer, is the candidate for this review. When I asked about the design and overall concept history, he explained it was very much a trial and error design process. Having been dissatisfied with valet trays he owned, he developed the idea to make the tray also perform the role as a pouch; storing all of those catch-all items when frequently traveling.

Super clean placement of snaps and solid stitching sets the Transformer out as a luxury piece.

Construction 

The Transformer at its simplest form is constructed of full grain leather, in this case Horween Natural Chromexcel. It is also available in other Horween leathers based on the shop inventory at the time. It is best to inquire current leathers and suede cikris available through contacting Luis.  The interior is lined with blue pigskin suede, also available in multiple colors. Pigskin is known for having a tough tensile strength while being soft on your items. The suede lined Transformers come fully stitched using a saddle stitch and polyester thread. If you desire an unlined Transformer, that can be made and does not come with the full stitching shown here. Being that my favorite color is blue, I chose those colors. Aged brass snaps complete the pouch configuration as well as the valet tray function. 

With a variety of EDC setups, the transformer can fit a variety of pocket dumps while the dimensions resist piling up of items in the center.

Function

As the Transformer name states, it is able to quickly transition from a travel pouch to a valet tray. This is perfect for home or travel settings, as valet trays give a dedicated space for pocket dumps of your daily pocket items. A valet tray of some sort is a must-have to store all of those EDC (Every Day Carry) items in one dedicated place. When using it as a travel pouch, it carries well and closes tight to keep contents secure. 

The pigskin suede really protects everyday items when transporting them via the pouch setup.

Aesthetics

As you can likely tell, the craftsmanship on the Transformer translates to clear beauty. Being hand-stitched with a saddle stitch and careful attention to details led to perfect lines. It is always warming to see a unique design paired with quality craftsmanship; often times one of those two elements is sacrificed for the other. The snap button placement is also spot on, and the brass snaps used add a nice match to the natural Horween Leather. The blue pigskin suede gives a nice “pop” and also makes for added rigidity and resistance to items “washing out”, as seen in trays with dark colors. Writing this review is tough not to sound bias but I am confident Luis has put just that great of a  product.

The Good Life Leather logo lends itself to great appearance whether the pouch is folded, or spread out into the valet tray.

Conclusion 

Throughout my time learning about leather, I’ve always been interested in products that stretch creative limits. With the hundreds of high quality valet trays in the market, the Transformer clearly takes a lead in uniqueness and added functionality.  Priced at $129 for the pigskin lined, full stitch version and $79 for the unlined, I definitely recommend spoiling yourself with the premium offering. Not only does the suede feel great, but it adds to the overall durability of the Transformer. In the past I’ve enjoyed referring readers to contact the shop owners via other communication besides a website, and Luis at GoodLife Leather is another one of those owners. You can inquire about leather options, designs, and ordering by contacting Luis through his Instagram social media account or by directly emailing him via [email protected]. I opted for the email dialogue and received frequent and timely responses.  I do not hesitate to call this a Buy-it-For-Life product. I’ve seen and owned quite a few valet trays throughout my young life, and this is definitely one I may have to buy multiples for gifts and one to keep at home or the office. 

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Arrow and Board Classic Belt Review and Kickstarter

Belts are always one of the immediate upgrades I recommend to friends when getting them into high quality leather goods. The reason being is that often, people will fall into a simple pattern of buying a department store belt, wearing it for a few months to a year, then having to buy a replacement due to broken buckles or failed stitching. Outside of that, changes in waist size often negate a new belt, but not nearly as frequently if buying one made of quality material. Arrow and Board has been in the business of making leather goods, and have decided to launch a Kickstarter Campaign for three new belts. This article will showcase the belt as well as my thoughts on it.

About Arrow and Board

With the motto “We make them like they used to,”  Arrow and Board is definitely in the business of making leather goods built to last. All of their goods are handmade in Austin, Texas; A big plus for those who prefer made in USA Goods. I spoke with Zac, who is in charge of product design and marketing. He was a joy to work with and really motivated towards getting his product into the hands of customers and establishing lasting impressions of high quality products and excellent customer service.

The medium brown color is a great finish for casual wear.

Construction

As we all know, belts are usually most durable when constructed of as few materials possible. One solid piece of 1.5 inch English bridle leather makes the belt strip, paired with a brushed buckle and Chicago screws. The belt I was sent is the medium brown color, while they also have black and tan options. The leather is 10-12 ounces thick and feels substantial. You could easily swap out the buckle for your own, but I like the business casual/casual feel the stock buckle gives.  The suede side of the belt is one of the smoothest finishes I have felt on a belt, and coupled with beveled edges gives the belt a nice overall finish.

The logo on the belt keeper does not stand out too much as to call attention, but is beautifully present.

Function

The belt easily accomplishes its main purpose – supporting pants on the waist. The hardware and leather used ensures durability and the sizing guide made sure I picked the correct size when ordering. You can expect leather belts to stretch to some degree, and if you’re in between size numbers, its probably best to size up (i.e. I sized up to a 36 though my measurements came in a tad bit short of it.) The diagram featured on the kickstarter is similar to how most leathermakers size their belts – to the most used hole on a belt the customer always owns.

Showing the simple hardware and construction with Chicago screws for easily buckle swapping.

Aesthetics

I touched on it in the construction section, but the finishing of the belt is really what makes the belt look and feel good. Beveled and burnished edges make it easily to slide through belt loops and nice to touch. The medium brown color has worn well with khakis as well as jeans. The strap keeper shows the brand logo, but is not detracting from the overall simplistic look and is not noticed when wearing shirts that sit above the belt buckle or are tucked in. Due to the belt buckle design, I personally did not wear it with suits, but I could easily swap it out for my preference of a slimmer designed buckle if needed. If I needed another black belt, I would probably consider one from Arrow and Board in my top choices.

1.5 inch belts easily fit in most common jeans.

 

Conclusion

The Classic Leather Belt by Arrow and Board is definitely a solid addition to their growing product lineup. I feel confident that they will have a successful kickstarter campaign as well as timely shipment of products to their customers. Currently the campaign has the belt options ranging from $59-70 based on the various options. At that price, it is a great buy as after the Kickstarter, I’d expect the retail price to be higher.

The leather finish has a nice glimmer in well lit areas.

 

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Craft and Lore Mountain Belt – $90

Belts. They hold up your pants. However, they aren’t all created equally. The Craft and Lore Mountain Belt that is currently on Kickstarter is the last piece of leather you’ll ever need to slide through your belt loops.

Construction

The Mountain Belt is made out of some of the thickest leather I’ve ever handled. Made out of Hermann Oak’s harness leather it comes in at 13 oz and available widths of 1.5″ or 1.75″, meaning it is not meant for dress pants. Hermann Oak has been making leather since 1881 in St Louis Missouri and it surely shows in the quality and temper of this belt. It’s not everyday that I get something in the mail and think to myself “USPS couldn’t have damaged this if they tried.”

The hardware for the buckle is solid brass and held together with 2 Chicago screws. There’s also a nicely finished keeper to hold any extra length on the belt down. All the edges of the belt a burnished and waxed and haven’t shown any sign of flaking or cracking with my constant wear.

The belt is custom sized to fit, so just take note of their sizing guide and you won’t have any issues there. Just measure an existing belt and you’ll do just fine. It is worth noting to not go with your pants size. Clothing sizes are typically vanity sized anywhere from 2-5″ and you may need a slightly larger size than that if you wear heavier pants and tuck your shirt in.

Function

Belts are a rather simple concept. Either they hold your pants up or they don’t. Some belts will last a few months, some a few years. This belt I could likely give to my 1 year old son as a wedding present if I was so inclined.

Some like their belts to be completely custom sized with only one punched hole. That’s not something I prefer since I like the ability to tighten or loosen my belt based on water weight or the thickness of my trousers but it is something to note. The belt has 7 holes providing enough room for growth or weight loss if your keeping up with your New Years resolutions.

Aesthetic

Like I stated before this is certainly not a dress belt. It would do fine in a casual or business casual environment but not anything past a sport coat. It’s certainly not without charm though as the detailing on the keeper looks great. The belt I received was their dark brown color and it has different hues based on how much dye was picked up where and it will certainly age gracefully.

Conclusion

The Mountain Belt is unquestionably a buy it for life belt that you’ll have no need to replace. With a typical price of $130 picking one up from their Kickstarter for $90 is a steal.

In a world where countless things are trying to pull you down do yourself and favor and get this belt so your pants won’t be one of them.

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Pierpont Leather Lizardskin Cardholder – $345

Bringing another item that appeals to the crowd who won’t settle for anything but the best, today we’re reviewing the Pierpont Leather Lizardskin Cardholder. This card wallet meets every functional standard while offering an elevated experience compliments of the luxury exotic leathers and superb construction.

About Pierpont Leather

“Pierpont Leather started as the eponymous creation of its founder, Parker Pierpont, as a medium through which to produce beautiful and unique items from the finest leathers available on the market. After years of practice and hundreds of thousands of stitches, Pierpont solidified his understanding of traditional workmanship through friendships and mentorships with some of the finest artisans in world, an intensive training with a former Hermès master artisan, and thousands of hours of meticulous study. His focus on an ever deeper understanding of the craft is the basis and guiding principal of all work done through Pierpont Leather.”

Construction

The inner leather of this custom card wallet is made with “Chèvre Mysore.” This isn’t a term we use too often here at BestLeather due to its somewhat proprietary feel; this leather is well known for being commonly used for Hermes bags (making Pierpont’s use of it quite understandable, as I mention in the previous section). Chèvre Mysore is a fine goatskin leather, well known for a strong grain pattern and high durability. 

The outer is, of course, lizardskin. It’s rare to use a product made with an “exotic” leather, but it’s a treat. This lizardskin has an awesome feel to it…think of when you got to touch the lizards at the zoo as a kid! It’s also very strong. So far no keys, fingernails, anything has been able to mark it in any way. It’s a remarkable material!

The thread used for this cardholder is linen, which is saddle stitched. Stitching is very uniform and sturdy. Similar to Pierpont’s French calfskin wallet, the edging on the wallet is very fine. Refined from a time consuming finishing process, it’s extremely polished and smooth. Construction is immaculate, and I have yet to find any flaws. 

Function

Functionally, this is a very simple wallet. Each of the four pockets holds two cards comfortably for a total of eight. You could force more in, but the wallet isn’t oversized and would stretch a bit. I appreciate the closed design; none of my cards edges are exposed when the wallet isn’t opened, meaning there’s no chance of them slipping out. However, when I need them, cards are very easy to slide in and out. The Mysore and lizardskin are stitched together such that the wallet keeps itself closed along a center spine. 

While certainly nothing fancy functionally, at its core the lizardskin card wallet is a great minimal card holder.

Aesthetic

As you would expect from leathers and assembly of this caliber, the wallet is beautiful. The lizard scales shine well and really pop visually–it exudes extravagance. Then, upon closer inspection, you can see the fine natural variance in the scales, reminding you that this is the real deal, not an imprint or knock off. Truthfully, I’m not used to carrying products of this caliber! It’s a level of refinement that catches others off guard and starts conversations.

The Chèvre Mysore inside gives a slight accent when the wallet is closed, and feels a bit like your own personal flair hiding on the inside of the lush scales on the outside. I may have not gone with yellow myself, however, Pierpont Leather works in bespoke goods, and offers a wide range of colors to suit your own taste.

Conclusion

Pierpont Leather’s demographic isn’t the customer who needs only functionality or durability. Instead the aim is for the customer who, alongside those attributes, recognizes and appreciates the finest of materials. The lizardskin and Mysore leathers of this wallet are gorgeous, unique, and tough as nails. The edging and construction are done well and with attention to the overall high-end feel of the materials. This is a premium, Buy It For Life, highly recommended product. Head over to Pierpont Leather’s website and check out their wide variety of bespoke options.

Pierpont Leather informs me their products have reached an even higher level of refinement than what we’ve seen here. Be looking forward to another of their products up for review in the coming months!

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Giver Classic & 4 Season Gloves Review – $40 & $99

 

For 15% off your next order from Give-r, use promo code “bestleather” at checkout!

I grew up in sunny California. So when I drove across country last January I packed up the car, threw on a hoodie and hit the pedal. It wasn’t until my first stop in Elko Nevada that I realized the blunder of my ignorance. At every pit stop for 3,000 miles my hands froze as I fueled up. Every morning as I set out I painfully scraped ice off the windshield with socks over my hands. It was during this time that I made an oath to the mighty interstate gods that I would find a good pair of gloves. After I completed the trip I started searching, and came across the Give’r Classic and 4 Season Gloves.

Construction

Before we get into the guts of these gloves I want to give a little background on the company behind these dextrous deities. Give’r has been around since 2011 and is based in Jackson Wyoming. The phrase Give’r is from Killarney in Ontario where the founders were inspired by the philosophy of giving it all you got which is definitely evident in the construction.

See any loose threads? Me neither.

Give’r tells us The leather undergoes a natural water tanning process, and is dyed using top quality tanning chemicals which are internationally approved. The gloves themselves are made in Pakinstan. The Wax coating, initial branding, Give’r logo branding and final touches are all taken care of in Jackson, WY. For the wax treatment of the Classic and 4-Season Gloves, Give’r uses a natural beeswax provided by Sno-Seal.  This treatment is responsible for the weatherproofing on the Classic Gloves.  For the 4-Season Gloves, this optional treatment serves as a surface barrier to the elements though the gloves are 100% waterproof without the treatment due to the waterproof membrane.  The wax coating on the 4-Season Gloves helps to protect against decay or drying of the leather, and ensures a long lifespan for the user.

If you were to accidentally drop the Give’r Classics into Mutagen ooze, you’d come up with the 4 Seasons. Notice the double stitching and palm reinforcements.

The 4 Season’s leather is 10-15% thicker and has added reinforcements in critical stress areas.  Both gloves has elastic around the wrists to provide a secure fit but the 4 Seasons goes a step further with an extended knit wrist cuff. Insulation on the classics is a laminated microfleece 30 gram insulation and we have 40 gm Thinsulate Insulation lining. The Classic weigh approximately  5.8oz and the 4 Seasons, 8.6oz.

Function

I’ve only had the Give’r gloves a few weeks, but they’ve already grown on me in the same manner as a trusted tool. When taking evening walks, I’ll usually reach for the classics. I like that I can wear my watch with an unimpeded view. It’s been a hovering around 25 degrees and my old fleece gloves were ok I thought, until I started using the classics and realized what’d been missing. The lining isn’t too thick which is good as I have sweaty palms and I can wear these across a wide spectrum of temperatures. Anything above 60 though and I’d probably want unlined gloves.

I really liked wearing a glove that could handle more than just keeping my hands warm.

My only real issue was the fit along the fingers. Using the fit guide I measured across my palm and that corresponded to a size large. While the across hand fit is good, I have over an inch gap on my pinky finger and thumb.  Interestingly, the 4 Seasons don’t do this and fit much better. I believe the 4 Seasons inner liner and added insulation enabled the better fit.

When you’re facing extreme conditions, the 4 Seasons are a solid option. Just slip them on and you’ve got leather gauntlets capable of serious manual mayhem. Seriously, there’s a video of the gloves being grilled on a bbq pit and even being dipped into boiling water while worn! Shoveling snow becomes almost enjoyable in these babies and in a pinch you can shovel snow with just them  on. I can see these being ideal for cold weather blue collar workers or those spending prolonged time in the elements. The ribbed elastic cuff seals out cold air and the waterproof lining means you can do just about anything in them.

Aesthetic

Aside from the elastic cuffs, both gloves are very similar visually. The 4 Seasons wax treatment gives them a slightly darker, more lustrous tone. We also see red contrast stitching on the 4 Seasons with a wonderful embossed logos. The Classic’s have a hand branded logo and silhouette of the Grand Tetons.   

The honey wheat color really adds warmth and style to the gloves.

Now before you conjure up grand illusions of flagging your French waiter over wearing some Give’rs while eating at a 4 star restaurant take note these are first and foremost work gloves; meant to create and takedown, to wrangle and contend. They do however look great, the simple efficient designs will gain the approval of no nonsense customers. Keep up on waxing them periodically and they’ll wear in beautifully.  

Conclusion

Give’r definitely lived up to their name with the construction of the Classics and 4 Seasons Gloves. The quality is noticeably superior to a pairs you’d find at big box stores. The 4 Seasons also cost quadruple the price in most cases. However, I see great value when you consider that the 4 Seasons can effectively replace your work gloves, winter gloves and ski gloves. All in all, I’d definitely recommend Give’r gloves and feel confident that they’ll hold up when I need them most.

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Da Vinci Workshop Wallet Kickstarter

The quality of leather doesn’t depend on the size of the company, and we at BestLeather are always pleased to bring some attention to a smaller company making good products. Da Vinci Workshop has recently started their first Kickstarter and was kind enough to provide us a sample for a quick review.

About Da Vinci Workshop

Inspired by its namesake scientist and inventor, founder Alexey started Da Vinci Workshop in the Ukrainian city of Zaporozhye. Da Vinci has been selling their items at local fairs and shops for some time, but is hoping to move into the world market and begin a website with the help of their already fully-funded Kickstarter.

Construction

Da Vinci Workshop takes pride in fully completing construction of their products by hand. Construction quality is high. Stitching is done with thick waxed thread and is very well done. Edges appear to be smoothed, but not burnished thoroughly. Cuts are uniform and construction overall is good.

The leather used is chrome-tanned, top grain calfskin, treated with some beeswax conditioner before leaving the shop. The calfskin is extremely soft, with a gentle matte feel to the outer and a slightly more suede feel on the inside. Chrome tanned leather may not be as tough or develop the patina of veg tan, but does have the benefit of softness and handling water more easily without treatment.

The leather originally had a reasonably strong burnt smell to it, but Da Vinci informs me this has something to do with the shipping conditions and that the fade will disappear. It has already faded considerably over just a few days.

Function

This is actually the first full-length wallet I’ve used! I wasn’t sure how I’d end up feeling about it. Of course, it doesn’t quite fit in a back pocket, but there are advantages as well. It does fit nicely in an inner suit pocket and doesn’t get lost as easily in my every day carry bag.

Plus, of course, it can hold plenty of items. I’d put small papers I picked up throughout the day in the larger pockets alongside my cash. I could keep a pencil or pen in the center of the fold. I even was able to keep my phone in there if I wanted. I think the ladies out there will be used to this from their larger purse wallets, but I wasn’t as familiar.

There wasn’t quite as much room for cards as I would have liked, each of the three card slots feeling full with two cards. However, Da Vanci does offer other more roomy models than the base “Simple” wallet that I have here.

Aesthetic

This Simple wallet I’ve received is essentially all black, and is easy to fit into most environments. The soft leather gives a pretty casual feel, but when sitting flat it does have a nice shine that fits in nicely with a suit as well. Da Vinci offers the wallet in other colors as well, and all of them are understated and should fit many situations well.

I think overall the wallet is fairly gender neutral. I wondered if I’d feel a bit out of place using a long wallet, but with the strong simple look, it is plenty masculine. I think men and women will appreciate the design of Da Vinci’s wallets.

Conclusion

The Da Vinci Workshop Simple wallet is well constructed with soft, quality leather. There’s plenty of room for most small items you could want, including your typical cash and credit cards (larger models can hold even more). The simple design is easy to fit into most situations. I think this would be a worthwhile Kickstarter to support if their wallets suit your style.

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Economic Wallet Roundup

This article will be an ongoing coverage of less expensive, quality leather wallets. If you’d like your company’s to be considered, please email [email protected].

We love the highest end goods out there, but sometimes one needs to enjoy leather and save the bank. Here we’re going to bring together some of our favorite recent wallets that fall within a lower price range.

North Star Leather Horween Leather Money Clip – $45

It’s becoming more and more rare to carry cash these days. So much so that most people had to ask me what the clip part of this wallet is! For those who do still practice the art, let me present the North Star Leather Horween Leather Money Clip.

Made of Horween’s Chromexcel, you can be sure the leather itself is of high caliber. I have the red brown version, and it’s offered in natural as well. The design is simple and good looking. The stitching varied a little, actually getting closer to an edge than I would have liked in one place, but not enough to cause any durability issues.

Functionally this will favor those who like to carry just a few cards and like a big space for their cash and receipts. The card pockets on each side held two cards each for me; you could probably manage three. Then there’s the money clip, which functioned well and held as much as I ever needed to carry. Pop it open, lay things flat, pop it closed, and hold it together with the rest of the wallet.

For those who do recognize and appreciate a good money clip, you’ll like this wallet. There’s no frills but at only $45 it’s a shoe in for our economic wallet roundup.

Kendal & Hyde Simpleton 1

Most of Kendal & Hyde‘s customers can’t get enough of their boots, belts, and bags. Their Simpleton 1 wallet is made with the same fantastic leather concept and is a great minimal card carry.

The Simpleton uses a classic wrap-and-sew card holder design, with a main storage pocket and a single easy access slot in front. I’ve found an ideal fill to be about four cards in the main pocket. This makes them fit snugly but leaves some room for cash or receipts if needed, and doesn’t put too much pressure on the single card slot.

kendalhyde_simpleton_1

Edges are gently burnished, and stitches are a nice thick marine grade polyester, machine sewed. The construction leads me to believe this little cardholder will last a lifetime.

kendalhyde_simpleton_2

The Simpleton 1, sadly, isn’t sold anymore on Kendal & Hyde’s website, but we’re told they have some other wallet ideas coming out soon. If Kendal & Hyde has taught us anything, it’s that sometimes the best products are worth the wait.

Update (March 2017): Sadly, Kendal & Hyde is no longer in business. Many of their designs have been revived by SALT Co.

E3 Supply Co Holster Style Slim Wallet – $39

Gotta love a design unique enough that it’s hard to know what it is: I showed E3 Supply Co’s Holster Style Slim Wallet to a friend without cards in it, and was immediately asked “…what is it?” Once I put cards in it, that confusion turned to envy. Something about the open corners design feels both cool and rugged, and being made of thick, strong, and supple Chromexcel obviously doesn’t hurt one little bit.

e3_holster_slim_wallet_1

Functionally, the Holster is a single, slim card pocket. It needs at least a few cards in order to keep things snug, and will get hard to use with too many. I’d say 3-6 cards is ideal. With a single large pocket it is sometimes necessary to pull out all of the cards to reach one, but thankfully you can put your most common cards on the outside of the pile to make them easy to access. Folded up cash and receipts slip in nicely.

e3_holster_slim_wallet_2

Once you get used to where you place your fingers as you take cards in and out (at first I kept accidentally pushing out all of my cards!), the design is great to use, and is overall extremely minimal. If you just need to carry a handful of cards and love the rugged look, the E3 Holster Style Slim Wallet is inexpensive, made with the incomparable Horween Chromexcel, and should last for years to come.

Great and inexpensive wallets will continue to be added to this roundup as we come across them! Email [email protected] if you’d like your company’s to be considered. 

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Lems Shoes Russet Leather Boulder Boots Review — $140

It’s pretty fun clomping through the snow in a new pair of boots.

I got these babies just as some major storms were sweeping over Utah. And being a reviewer, I was eager to test them in the worst conditions. So on my walks, I aimed at the biggest drifts and snowpiles. Sometimes I’d sink up to my knees. It was tons of fun.

And I’m happy to say the Russet Leather Boulder Boots from Lems Shoes proved themselves worthy.

Construction

First, let me give you a caveat.

Lems has an unconventional philosophy—a philosophy that impacts design and performance. And if you don’t buy into it, you probably won’t like wearing these boots.

See, Lems believes a shoe should fit the natural shape of a human foot—that means the toebox is wider than other shoes. Lems also believes a shoe should enhance what the foot does rather than alter it—that means these have no heels (i.e. “zero-drop”), which helps preserve the body’s barefoot gait. And last, Lems believes in minimalism—that means a thin, lightweight sole, which keeps you close enough to the earth to feel what you’re walking on. I happen to be unconventional (or hippie) enough to buy into this philosophy. And I love these boots. (If you’re curious but unconvinced, you might check out Born to Run or search YouTube for “Principles of Natural Running.” If you’ve never done athletic barefooting, know that it takes some getting used to. Muscles unused in a regular shoe will get activated in a minimal shoe, which means soreness in new places. Something to think about.)

The Boulder Boots are made with 1.8 mm full-grain leather that has a sleek finish. I was a little worried the leather might feel cheap and second-rate, but I’m glad to report that they’re good quality. The interior plaid lining is made from 100% cotton. The souls are air-injected rubber, which is surprisingly lightweight. Seriously, when you pick them up, you’ll be caught off guard if you’re expecting the weight of a thick rubber sole. They’re only 11.5 ounces! (Which makes them great for travel.) They’re so thin, in fact, that you’ll notice a huge difference when walking on concrete. They’ve kept me off my heels, really shifting each footfall to the front of my foot.

Functionality

Although they’re minimal, I’ve worn my Boulder Boots out in snow for extended periods, and with wool socks they kept me nice and warm. Just make sure to lace them tight so snow can’t get in. I haven’t yet tested them in extreme temperatures, so that experiment is up to you. (I consider them more of the fashion product anyway.)

Oh, and by the way, when I wasn’t wearing wool socks, I did notice a little moisture from melted snow getting inside, which I suppose could be fixed with waterproofing spray. The bottom line is that they’re not waterproof and probably wouldn’t be great slogging through puddles.

I’ve gone hiking and have even done some sprinting in them, and I love they way they move and shift with your foot. They’re super flexible, which leaves your ankles plenty of mobility.

Aesthetic

I loved the look of these boots straight out of the box. However, that was my personal opinion, and I actually worried other people might judge me for not having heels. (Yes, really.) Then I started getting compliment after compliment, and I’ve started to walk a little more proudly.

When you step forward, the toe of your back foot bends. This has created some slight ripples in the leather above the toe. You can hardly see it in the pictures, but if I were to change something about these boots it would be to smooth those back out. It’s not a dealbreaker, but maybe something for the shoemakers to consider when making the next version, if there even is a fix with leather this light.

Lems ships their Boulder Boots with two pairs of laces. The russet style comes with gold laces, which are kind of flashy, and a pair in a more conservative chocolate brown. I actually like the look of both, depending on the occasion. And speaking of colors, Lems makes the Boulder Boots in a raven-black leather, as well as several canvas hues too, so check those out on their site. There’s definitely something for everybody’s taste.

But I leave the final aesthetic judgement up to you…

Conclusion

The Russet Leather Boulder Boots from Lems Shoes have a roguish look. They’re lightweight and minimal. And while I don’t necessarily recommend them to everyone, you should consider them if you think organic is a good thing. Or if you want your gait to be as natural (barefoot) as possible. Or if you care about walking in style, ha ha.

I’m personally a huge fan of mine.

(P.S. If you’re still on the fence, Lems has a generous return policy, and, FYI, you’ll pay about $8 in return shipping if you change your mind.)

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Ledermann Thin Briefcase – $269

An essential item of anyone who carries documents to and from the office is some sort of briefcase. Here at BestLeather we are of the opinion that there isn’t any better solution for that than a well constructed leather option. Queue the Ledermann Thin Briefcase.

Construction

Ledermann uses full grain vegetable tanned leather as the foundation for for their bag. It is lined with canvas and there is a layer of leather board in between the leather exterior and canvas interior to provide structure as the bag breaks in.

The metal used throughout the bag is all iron, which has proven to be durable but brass or nickel plated brass would have been a better choice for longevity.

The back of the strap is lined with a nylon belt. While some manufacturers use similar techniques it’s typically masked by using leather on both sides. The underside of the pad on the strap is a soft suede that keeps it from falling off your shoulder when carrying it which is a nice touch.

Function

This briefcase certainly performs all the duties that you would expect it to. It holds plenty of notebooks and documents with just enough space to hold a small laptop if needed.

There are a few pockets for sorting small items but is mostly open to put and sort you items as you would like.

Aesthetic

The Ledermann Thin Briefcase is certainly a handsome bag that fits in well casually and in a business casual setting. Some briefcases go to far in trying to add too many bells and whistles but here what you get is a tried and true design.

There is some unsightly creasing on the closure strap but being a high wear area this isn’t unexpected. It would have been nice to see this constructed in a way that would prevent it though.

Conclusion

The Ledermann Thin Briefcase is another great contender in the leather briefcase space, and coming in at under $300 prices it competitively.

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Megan’s Mark Leather Addison Tote Review — $208

I think I have—quite simply—found THE perfect leather tote.

It’s the Addison Tote from Megan’s Mark Leather, and there are so many things I love about it. But first, let me tell you some behind-the-scenes.

As a leather blogger, I spoke on the phone with Megan, the creator, before I ordered—wanting to get the inside scoop on the product. She told me she’s always been drawn to leather products with a classic aesthetic and personalized touches to show they were hand-made. She looked for simple design too—no buckles, zippers, or anything superfluous. But “it was hard for me to find my style,” she said, “so I created it.” Luckily, that happened to be the style I was looking for too.

She sums up her design philosophy with a simple line: “Let the leather speak for itself.”

Construction

First up, let’s talk about the craftsmanship and materials.

The tote is made in the U.S., sourced from Tandy Leather. The leather type is called oiled kodiak, and it’s chrome-tanned and medium temper, which gives it rich colors and a little bit of texture. Mine even has some unique scarring, which I like.

Aesthetic

Megan makes two versions of this tote. The first is simpler and has a straight-cut edge at the top opening. I ordered the upgraded version, which has that top edge turned-down and stitched. And I love the contrast of that finished edge with the raw edges you’ll see on the straps. It really emphasizes the leather as a material and brings the design together in a way that makes it perfect for any occasion.

As I said, the leather has some imperfections, making it authentically one-of-a-kind. The stain is rich and warm, while still being perfectly modern. The rivets are a nice, complementary copper color.

On a personal note, the bag arrived during the coldest part of winter, and it had lighter marks across it where it was bent. This concerned me, because it didn’t look too great. But when I brought it out of the package and let it relax in the warmth of my home, all the discoloration went away. Now the bag is beautiful, as you’ll see in the photos.

Functionality

Inside the bag, there’s a special treat (at least to any woman who’s previously owned a tote). The inner side features a small pouch, perfect for holding small items you’d rather not have floating at the bottom. It includes a clasp attached to a length of leather to keep your keys secure. It’s a thoughtful design, particularly if you ask my phone screen.

In the month and a half I’ve owned it, I’ve found many occasions to make it my companion. It’s a wonderful upgrade to my old shoulder bag and the perfect size for a busy mom—large enough to fit several items, and yet never so large that it’s in the way.

On outings with my baby, I slip my small purse inside, along with diapers, wipes, a spare outfit, and treats, topped with her favorite quilt and stuffed kitty—and it all fits wonderfully! I once loaded it full of Christmas packages and waited in line at the post office, and my shoulder felt no fatigue because the leather straps molded comfortably to its shape. I take the tote to church every week, where it fits an 8×11 binder, activities to keep children quiet, and my purse tucked inside. It’s been my car bag on day trips, my gym bag, and my favorite bag.

Conclusion

This tote has a unique, simple style that really sets it apart from something you’d find at Target. It’s made from hearty materials and was hand-crafted precisely. And, best of all, it has worked well for every situation I’ve used it in. If these are qualities you’re looking for, the Addison Tote from Megan’s Mark Leather is a great choice.

[Jill Washburn and J Washburn wrote this review in collaboration.]

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Best of 2016 Awards

We are back with our annual article where we highlight the best leather products that we have reviewed in the past year. We have crowned a winner and a runner up for various different categories.

2016 was full of awesome leather products and here at BestLeather we were able to get our hands on a large majority of these items. Based on the items that we have reviewed in 2016 we have put together the best for each category. This is a tradition that we have done for the past two years (2014 awards and 2015 awards) and we will continue to do this in the future. Without further ado, check out the best leather products of 2016 below and let us know what you think in the comment section.

Best Briefcases

Winner: Kendal & Hyde Classic Satchel

I’ve seen a lot of great messengers out there, but have yet to see one that matches Kendal & Hyde’s offerings in beautiful simplicity and thoughtful detail. “It’s been said that if you eliminate everything that is not essential you will end up with something that is.” This idea, found on one of Kendal & Hyde’s early Kickstarter pages, represents their designs well.

No design aspects are exclusively for aesthetic purposes–which creates a product that is not only hyper functional, but beautiful in its own class. The Kendal & Hyde Classic Satchel embodies these strengths with its tank-like laptop protection, clever design features, and 100% thick, custom concept, veg-tan leather construction. You can read the full review here. 

Runner Up: Korchmar Garfield Messenger

The Korchmar Garfield Messenger bag is a strong product we were even delighted to host a holiday giveaway for with Korchmar. Constructed of a semi-veg tanned leather with canvas lining, this turned out to be an ideal setup for those wishing to carry a lot of documents, electronics or large laptops.

Equipped with multiple pockets for organization and a beautiful design, this bad is perfect for those searching for a tech-friendly work briefcase. While the giveaway has concluded, you can check out the full review here.  

Best Backpack

Winner: Mission Mercantile Steamer Backpack

Combining the beauty of leather with the sort of swagger and lightweight benefits of waxed canvas, the Steamer Backpack from Mission Mercantile is our Best Backpack of 2016. Paying tribute to mail bags and steamer bags of the past, the backpack is built with heritage in mind. With that heritage came an eye-catching design and top-of-the-line materials. With space enough for a good overnight trip or a day in class/work, the capacity is fitting for all genders.

We were even able to coordinate a giveaway of this bag to one lucky reader, who no doubt appreciated the quality. If a lightweight and beautiful backpack is appealing to your tastes, you can check out the full review here.

Runner Up: Pad and Quill Roll Top Leather Backpack

It is hard to ignore items that just have “that look” when you see them that invites you in with curiosity. Pad and Quill’s Roll Top Leather backpack is no exception to this theory. Besides the enticing look of roll tops, the Roll Top Leather backpack is constructed of quality full grain leather, parachute grade thread, and quality hardware.

With adjustable shoulder straps, it can fit a wide variety of heights and proportions. The side zipper has proven especially useful for pulling out items that may have sunk to the bottom of the backpack. You can check out the full review here.

Best Boots

Winner: Dayton Boots Parade Boot

The Dayton Parade Boot is one of the highest quality boots currently on the market, and for good reason! They are made out of full grain leather and sewn together by hand with double and triple stitching and then finished off with being Goodyear welted. These boots will last you many years, if not decades. That’s how well they are put together. Not only do they perform well, but they also look very slick with the black leather which goes great with any outfit.

If you are looking to invest in some top notch boots that you plan to wear for the next 5-10 years then this should be your go-to. You can see our full review on these boots here.

Runner Up: Danner Mountain Pass

These Danner boots are constructed out of Horween’s Rio Latigo leather, which is a full-grain combination leather, and is finished with pigment-free aniline dye. Needless to say, these things are well constructed! If you are looking for a lightweight and modern update on a classic hiking boots then this is your option. You can read the full review here.

Best Shoes

Winner: Lems Nine2Five Coffee and Cream Shoes

Man, I love these shoes. I wear them nearly every day. They’re incredibly lightweight. They have a exceptionally thin sole with zero drop, so they keep your gait natural (your yoga instructor would be proud). They also have a wide toe box—meaning the shoes fit your feet instead of your feet having to conform to the shoe.

And most remarkably, they’re good looking, made from 1.6mm full-grain leather with a deep pull-up dye, that gives them shapely contours wherever the leather bends. If you’re a hippie or hipster who wants both natural and handsome, the Lems Nine2Fives are the shoe you’re looking for. (See full review.)

Runner Up: Crosby Square Findlay Shoes

With a thick leather outsole, stunning bordeaux color, and classic derby shape, the Crosby Square Findlay Shoes are gorgeous. Friends and even strangers have commented on their beautiful color and the classic brogue-style wingtip. They’re high-quality and no-nonsense, and it’s obvious that intense passion went into the design and production. See full review.

Best Belt

Winner: Hawkmoth Propeller

There was likely little doubt that Hawkmoth’s incomparable Propeller belt would take Best Of this year. I continue to wear this belt any chance I can, and it continues to mystify anyone who sees it. The rare oak bark tanned leather and hand dye has worn beautifully, managing to balance taking on character while never faltering in strength. The asymmetrical design, thick hand stitching, and bronze US Navy buckle exude style and history. Frankly, it’s challenging to describe how much I love this belt. Check out the full review of this belt here

Runner Up: Gray Bull Leather Co. Classic Leather Belt

Gray Bull’s Classic Leather Belt fills the belt need on the other end of the spectrum from Hawkmoth’s Propeller. There’s no frills, but there’s also little more you could ask for from a functional perspective: massively thick treated 10oz veg-tan leather, large sturdy buckle, chicago screws. Coloring and burnishing look great.This tank of a belt as a whole looks good, should last a lifetime, and comes in at a paltry $59. Full review can be found here.

Best Wallet

Winner: J. Michael Ashland Classic Bifold

The J. Michael Ashland Classic Bifold is a traditional bifold wallet lover’s dream. No frills, no gimmicks, just a traditional bifold offering solid construction and exceptional capacity. Using Horween leather that aids in the timeliness design and aesthetic, it is sure to be an upgrade to common bifolds. Whether for yourself or a special person in your life, the classic bifold is worth viewing the full review here.

Runner Up: Sandlot Goods Billfold

The Sandlot Goods Billfold is about as American as apple pie. Made in the United States from domestically sourced materials, this wallet hit the sweet spot with a solid recipe of quality materials, expert craftsmanship and a dose of Americana that made the Sandlot Goods Billfold an instant classic. See Full Review

Best Duffel

Winner: Moore and Giles Benedict Bison Weekend Bag

It’s hard to praise this bag enough. I feel spoiled every time I load it up. It’s a luxury I’m just not used to. What’s more, people always comment on it, and I love replying with, “It’s buffalo leather.” That always gets a little more astonishment out of them. It’s a big bag, with ample space for a weekend trip, yet not too cumbersome. It’s durable, with double seams and reinforced edges.

Best of all, it’s classy—easily the most beautiful leather piece you will own. And while the Moore and Giles Benedict Bison Weekend Bag is on the expensive side, it’s most definitely a product worth investing in. See full review.

Runner Up: Mission Mercantile Stateroom Weekender

Mission Mercantile continues to turn heads with their Stateroom Weekender, a great bag for the weekend whose construction takes no shortcuts. Constructed of full grain leather, it is relatively heavy, but with a presidential-esque style it is worth the compromise in weight. No cheap or breakable parts come on the Stateroom Weekender, and that’s how we like our Buy-It-For-Life rated products. For a bag you can toss around without worry of damage to it, check out the full review here.

Best Notebook Cover

Winner: Koch Leather Company Horween Field Notes Sleeve

Koch Leather Company’s take on a Field Notes Sleeve challenges the typical layout of field note covers while adding the ability to carry a pen as well as business cards or a small knife/flashlight. With various choices in Horween or Herman Oak leather and hand stitching, there leaves no question to whether the best materials available were chosen. You can check out the full review here.

Runner Up: Alstad Goods Carry

Entirely handmade to perfection of the finest caliber materials, Alstad Goods’ Carry is certainly worth honorable mention. While likely tougher than most other notebook covers, the Carry also exudes luxury. The pen closure comes in handy when you want to fill it up and keep everything in place. The full review can be found here. 

Best Leather Jacket

Winner: Satchel and Page Calfskin Cafe Racer Jacket

Satchel & Page does it again with their Cafe Racer Jacket. The pictures should do more than enough to convince you that this tailored design is stunning in its simplicity. Full grain French calfskin is beautiful, soft, and performs well in a range of environments. A leather jacket is an investment, but one worth making, and the Cafe Racer is a good option for anyone’s consideration. See the full review here.

Runner Up: Jaunji Designs Uptown Jacket in Lambskin

This jacket it beautiful. It has an elegance that makes it a good fit for very formal occasions, yet it also works well with a high-class casual. But the thing that really sold me was the wool lining—that so much care goes into the part no one ever sees. And you’ll find this same care in all of the craftsmanship. What’s more, these jackets are all custom fitted to each individual buyer—specifically to your body, which boosts the personal value all the more. The Jaunji Designs Uptown Jacket in Lambskin is a fine piece of leatherwork. Full review here.

Best Ladies Product

Winner: Tsonga Chefeza Amatista Sandals

Tsonga has created one of the best leather sandals on the market with their Chefeza Amatista model. They are crafted with full grain cobalt blue sheep leather that is incredibly soft which makes the sandals extremely comfortable to wear. Not only are they comfortable to wear, but the sandals also have a nice flare to them with the cobalt blue leather. If you’re looking for sandals that look great for any occasion and don’t hurt your feet after a few hours, then these Tsonga sandals are for you! You can read the full review here.

Runner Up: Hidesign Cerys Leather Multi-Compartment Tote

The Hidesign Cerys Tote was one of our favorite women’s products we had the chance to review this year on BestLeather. There is a lot to like with this full grain veg-tanned leather tote that is suitable for the office or just going out for the day. The inner lining of the tote is a bright blue cotton fabric that adds some pop to the bag as well. If this interests you, then you can read the full review of this tote here.

Best Accessory Product

Winner: Wallis Standard Leather Weightlifting Belt

This belt is awesome. It’s as tough as the iron you’ll be pumping—what with the high quality leather, the double stitching, and the metal buckle and brackets. It looks amazing too, not just because of the beautiful leather, but in the etching if you invest in getting it customized like I did.

This costs a little extra cash because it takes Garrott and Evan some extra time, but it adds a lot of personal value. I realize not everyone is in the market for a lifting belt, but if you are, the Wallis Standard Leather Weightlifting Belt is absolutely the one to get–whether you’re a CrossFit pro or one in the making. See full review.

Runner Up: J. Ryan & Co. Shaving Strop

For lovers of traditional wet shaving like myself, a quality strop is a must-have for those who have likened themselves to the shave offered by a straight razor. The J. Ryan & Co. Shaving strop reminds us that not all straps are created equal, and this one particularly is in a league of its own. You can read about how it differentiates itself from other straps by checking out the full review here.

Best Tech Product

Winner: 74Street Bags Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness

Carrying a standalone digital or film camera can sometimes be a pain in the neck, literally. 74Street Bags developed the Multicamera Photographer Leather Harness to reduce the strain placed on the body while carrying cameras, while also offering quick access to multiple camera rigs.

Suited for serious amateurs and professionals, the harness can be considered a grail among other camera straps. If you’re like me and haven’t abandoned dedicated cameras in favor of cellphones and tablets, this product is a must-have for those long photoshoot sessions. You can set down your cameras and check out the full review here.

Runner Up: Intrepid Bag Co. Leather Tech Roll

Simply put, the Leather Tech Roll form Intrepid Bag Co. is a must-have for tech-savy individuals who carry their electronics with them daily. Instead of digging around in your bag for cords, headphones, and other devices, the Tech Roll allows for organization and protection. While it can get bulky if you pack a lot of things, the same could be said for the mess you might create in a bag without an organized setup. For an alternative to digging for that extra flash drive, data bank, or phone charger, check out the full review here.

Most Innovative Product

Winner: Offene Meer Leather Co. Gun Deck Wallet

The Offene Meer Leather Company Gun Deck Wallet is a great choice, merging capacity suited for both traditional and minimalist carriers. Constructed of one piece of leather, this simple wallet uses a friction based closure as well as the ability to store priority cards in a front slot for quick access. This allows for the unpartitioned wallet with space for multiple cards and cash folded once.  The front slot paired with the unique single piece folded construction makes this our most innovative product. You can check out the full review here.

Runner Up: Andrews Leather Monarch Shoulder Rig and Holster

This shoulder rig feels good. It sits so naturally on your body that you’ll hardly notice you’re wearing it. What’s more, the lower back strap keeps it from flopping around while you’re on the move. Its design keeps functionality as the highest priority. And yet it looks incredibly good too—so good that Sam’s leather has been used in Hollywood blockbusters like the new Magnificent Seven and the latest Fast and Furious. If you own a handgun and are inclined toward adventure, the Andrews Leather Monarch Shoulder Rig and Holster is a must-have companion. And as I mentioned in the review, Sam, the creator, is from the old school, so you’ll want to make your order by phone here. See full review.

Thanks for Reading!

Thanks for checking our our awards for 2016. It was a great year and we are looking forward to another one in 2017. If you are a leather company that wants to have a chance of having your product featured in our 2017 awards you can get in contact with us about a review by following this link here.

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Floto Imports Roma Backpack Review – $280

Shopping for leather backpacks can get overwhelming when weighing the benefits of the look versus the added weight of choosing leather. Most of the time, a well-constructed full or top grain leather backpack is going to weigh considerably more than its canvas or nylon counterparts. Joe Floto from Floto Imports very generously sent in the Floto Roma Backpack for review, which provides a solid middle ground by using beautiful leather and overall relatively lightweight construction.

We have previously reviewed other products from Floto Imports, and have learned that they are a very budget-friendly way to get into Italian leather goods while also getting great quality and customer service.

The Roma backpack worn on a female friend. Note the dimensions lead it to be a schoolbook/travel sized pack, not necessarily for expeditions.

Construction

The bag is constructed of full grain calfskin leather that has been vegetable tanned and polished in Tuscany. This particular color is their Olive Honey Brown, but the backpack is also available in a deep red, black, and dark brown colors. The interior is raw, leaving the suede finish of the underside of the calfskin hide. There are sections such as the backing of the side and front pocket flaps which appear to be covered with pigskin suede, that has a nice soft feel. The backpack is complete with metal nickel-plated hardware in the form of buckles, snap buttons, d-rings, and rivets. The top handle is constructed substantially with hardware and rivets, while also holding an appealing appearance. The bag dimensions are listed as 14″ H x 14″ W x 9 ” L.

The main drawstring compartment shows the suede-side of leather with a soft yet fibrous texture.

Function

As primarily a satchel/messenger guy, I typically don’t carry backpacks. Switching to the Roma Backpack did not include any frustrations in terms of what my usual bag capacity is. Having carried heavier leather backpacks before, I found joy in knowing that the leather itself did not compromise the weight, driving me to run home and change for a lighter pack. I appreciated the fact that the side pockets can hold full size 16-20oz bottles, or a smaller umbrella while being able to close. The website states they are fit for most 16oz water bottles, but I experienced a bit more size. For reference, a common 23oz Ice Mountain plastic water bottle had no problem fitting in the pocket, nor did a 16oz Stanley Coffee mug or 27oz Kleen Canteen Reflect bottle.

Button snaps are noticeably faster to open compartments as opposed to undoing the buckles.

The front pocket is easily the most convenient storage method on the bag, as like the side pockets, it is secured with button snaps. I used this pocket for pens, a small camera, and pocket notebook. The main compartment sports a drawstring closure that is easy to cinch down and opened up wide. I was able to carry an iPad, a few school books and an extra jacket, with room to spare despite the bags overall smaller size. I am not particularly enamored with the closure for the main compartment – the small buckle does not seem robust and does not allow as fast of access as it would with a snap button or glide buckle.The backpack back straps are adjustable and did not dig into my shoulder blades when wearing t-shirts and sweaters. However, if one is choosing to wear a tank top or sleeveless shirt, the edges of the straps may take time to break in and soften up. The carry handle was useful for easily picking the back up to put on, but I did not carry the bag with the handle for extended periods of time.

Handle on the top of the Roma Backpack, making it easy to pick up and put on, as well as hang up for storage.

Aesthetics

Now on to the main reason some will choose a leather backpack: its pure beauty. I have to admit at first I did not think I would enjoy the polished leather look, but over my use I have definitely learned to love it. The tanning process along with the polishing of this bag makes a very soft, luxurious feel. The white thread creates a high-contrast stitch that pops in the sunlight.While they do use a semi-gloss coating to finish the bag, I had to remember that it was vegetable tanned, thus not as resistant to water stains without treatment. A small water stain happened from water droplets on the top flap, but had I used a proper leather protection prior to element exposure, I don’t think it would have left a mark.

On this top flap, I did have a slight water stain from being caught in light rain. At a quick glance it is not noticeable, but it is to the right of the buckle strap.

Conclusion

Coming in at a price of about $280, it’s more expensive than your typical nylon or canvas pack, but the look and feel of the leather makes up for it. Floto bags come with limited lifetime warranties while the company also has a repair service for situations in which the bag would not be covered, such as airline damage. Being lightweight for full grain, the Floto Roma Backpack is certainly a good option for those wanting the look of a leather backpack unaccompanied by the usual added weight.