Thirteen50 is a leather company with a passion to create quality leather goods, made in the USA. The saying, “they don’t make em’ like they used to” is said far too often in this day in age. This is sad, but so very true. At Thirteen50 we wanted to do as our ancestors did, and make a quality product at an affordable price (not to mention, offering a killer traditional look).
Each full-grain leather belt is made by hand in the United States. If you fund their Kickstarter, you can choose to be rewarded with a leather bracelet, leather key fob, or one of their belts. The belts, priced at $50 on the Kickstarter, come in the following colors: Chestnut, Black, Dark Brown, and Natural. You can also choose your hardware finish color: Silver Matte, or Antique Brass. Sizes 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 4, 48 and 50. Each Thirteen50 product comes with a lifetime warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Check out their Kickstarter now, as you can save $20 or more on their sturdy belts. Thirteen50 Leather will also be debuting a line of bags and accessories in the near future. Be sure to keep an eye out for a BestLeather review of Thirteen50’s belts, coming soon!
With its hand sewn dresses, vintage furniture, and Barry Manilow pillows, Etsy can be quite overwhelming. Finding the perfect backpack, purse or wallet can take a bit of time and research, so we’re here to help! We’ve curated a few of our favorite Etsy stores that specialize in products for women. We’re always on the lookout for more great shops, so be sure to tell us about your favorites in the comments!
Wallets, electronics cases, tote bags, and much more from Tox Leather. We’ve reviewed several of their products here at BestLeather, including their Shiny Macbook/Document Case (which made our Graduation Gift Guide for 2015) and Cigar Cases.
Gorgeous genuine leather backpacks, tote bags, purses, and more, from a one-woman operation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We’re big fans of her waxed canvas and leather backpacks.
Based in Richmond, Virginia, Awl Snap makes unique designs in fun colors. They feature roll-top backpacks, bucket bags, clutch purses, and more. They were recently a featured shop on Etsy, and you can read a bit more about them here!
Crow SLC is a shop in Salt Lake City Utah that designs modern bags and clutches with a very angular, minimalist look. I purchased the Mini Crossbody Bag in black for my mom, and she loves its unique look. They just released some new designs for pre-order, so check them out!
Chivote is a young team with a passion for quality goods; who wants to make it’s own mark, by creating unique products with a bit of extra functionality. Their Kickstarter has been enthusiastically embraced and is currently enjoying a 200% funding status with just a few days before it closes.
Chivote is offering several great, unique leather products that offer versatility and durability at great prices. If you’re able, order during the remaining time on their Kickstarter to enjoy even more savings on these quality pieces.
Their Kickstarter page is full of great videos and information about their products, their processes, and their company. Be sure to take a few minutes and check it all out. Hopefully you’ll be seeing a product review or two here on BestLeather featuring Chivote.
The first pair of Red Wing boots I ever encountered were given to me in the summer of 1984. I was actually reluctant to accept them. You see, I considered myself a “certified ranch hand”, even though I was truly only a greenhorn at the time. After quickly wearing out several pairs of decent, traditional cowboy boots on the ranch, my boss gave me a pair of Red Wing work boots (I don’t recall the type). Being a Texas boy, I kind of scoffed at the idea of wearing them for cattle ranching. But, I slipped them on, worked in them for a day…and continued to work in them for the rest of the year. Unfortunately, I grew out of them – I certainly didn’t wear them out. They were seriously comfortable and rugged…enduring all of the harsh punishment I dished out at the time. That was my introduction to Red Wing.
About Red Wing
From their website: “Around the turn of the 20th century a Red Wing, MN shoe merchant named Charles Beckman saw a local necessity for shoes specifically designed for the demanding work of industries such as mining, logging and farming. The rigors of these jobs required footwear, which was tough enough to outlast harsh working conditions, but Beckman envisioned a shoe that was also comfortable enough for the hardworking people who wore them. Beckman set out to develop work boots to fill this need and in 1905 he and fourteen investors opened a company that would change the market. Beckman named his company Red Wing Shoes, and thus a new standard for excellence was born.
Over one hundred years has passed since our founding and our commitment to producing only the highest grade footwear remains as unwavering as Beckman’s vision. Our products consistently perform in environments spanning from the Mideast oil fields to the Midwest corn fields. Red Wing boots protect workers in more than one hundred countries across the world, an accomplishment built by years of hard work, endurance and the promise to never compromise on our quality.”
The Iron Ranger Boots that I have the privilege of reviewing are part of Red Wing’s Heritage Collection. Again, according to their website, “our Heritage collection, which is made up of footwear that represents the American ideals of prosperous work and excellence. All the styles in the Heritage collection are designed and built just as they were fifty, sixty and even over eighty years ago and are all made using premium Red Wing Shoe Company leather from our very own S.B. Foot Tannery. They are handcrafted to the specifications, which made each style timeless when they were first introduced.”
Construction
The Iron Ranger Boots are made using premium black harness leather from their own S.B. Foot Tannery. This is oil-tanned leather, which is used in many of Red Wing’s boots and shoes. Oil-tanned leather is extremely durable, which is a feature easily seen and proven with Red Wing’s 100+ year history. The boots are made using Goodyear Welt construction, the hardware for the eyelets and speed hooks is nickel, and the laces are long lasting taslan. The nitrile cork soles initially appear like they would be slippery – however, they are not at all. Cork soles are extremely durable and provide excellent traction on almost all surfaces. This particular style also features an eye-catching double layer toe cap and double stitching. Interestingly, the boots feature two different colors of stitching – the toe cap and seams around the laces and top of the boot all feature black thread while the rest of the boot has white stitching.
Function
While anticipating the arrival of my Iron Rangers, I read comments from many different long time Red Wing wearers and was initially nervous about the break-in period. Perhaps I’m just not that ‘in-tune’ with my feet, but the break in period on my Iron Rangers was virtually nil. They were comfortable initially…but, they’re really comfortable now. I’ve worn these boots consistently and in a variety of situations. All day comfort is definitely an one of the Iron Ranger’s attributes.
In spite of their 8” height, I do not have issues slipping these on without a finger loop or pull loop on the back. Perhaps it’s because of the angled top of the boot? I’m not sure. However, unlike some other boots of this size that also lack a pull tab on the back of them, these slip on easily and effortlessly.
Aesthetic
This style’s original purpose was to serve Iron miners in northern Minnesota. All I have to say about that is, dang…those were some stylin’ miners! This boot has some serious aesthetic appeal. They’re rugged – but with that toe cap, you can dress ‘em up too. Personally, I think it’s a great style and for those of you who are budget minded when it comes to footwear, consider this boot as two pairs: your dress boot and your casual boot.
I enjoy the black version of the Iron Rangers that I have now. These boots also come in Amber, Copper, and Hawthorne leathers too – all of which look fantastic. I would not hesitate to hit the “Add to Cart” button on any of those versions.
To keep my boots in tiptop shape, I also received Red Wing’s Basic Care Product Kit, which contains their All Natural Leather Conditioner, Mink Oil, Boot Cream, Brush, and Cloth. This is a must have kit if you plan to keep the leather on your Red Wing’s conditioned and protected. At $39.95, it’s a great kit and will service your boots well.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong in purchasing a pair of Red Wing Iron Rangers. The construction, fit, finish, and heritage behind the brand is all fantastic. In the realm of quality footwear, their price of $319.99 is a great value. You will receive a pair of boots that will be enjoyed for years, will continue to perform well, and will become a daily companion on all of life’s adventures. The Iron Rangers are definitely a great buy. So, which pair will you be ordering?
Harmattan Design, a new company out of Wilmington, DE, has just launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund their new line of products. The new product line includes backpacks, messenger bags, ladies’ tote bags and purses, a cycling bag, and a document tube. All their products are made of vegetable-tanned, full-grain harness leather from Italy.
Harmattan Design focuses on superb design and high quality materials. Radu, Harmattan Design’s founder, started the company because he was tired of doing cheap design for manufacturers and wanted to apply his skills to a product line with high quality materials. Wanting to get his ideas out of his head, he ended up with 14 different designs, and thus Harmattan Design was born.
All the Kickstarter products are reasonably priced, from $160 – $340. You can save around $40 by ordering early, so be sure to check out Radu’s designs! We have pictures of all 14 of the great looking products, so take a look and be sure to check out the Kickstarter page.
One of the greatest feelings in the world is getting out on the trail and breathing some of that fresh alpine air. But one of the worst feelings is getting halfway up the mountain, realizing you’ve got a blister forming, and knowing that the rest of the hike is going to be agony. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in a nice pair of hiking boots. Hanwag, based in Vierkirchen, Germany, has been making high quality outdoor shoes since 1921. We received a pair of their Tatra Lady boots to review, as well as a pair of Men’s Tashi Boots made with yak leather (keep an eye out for a review coming soon!). My wife immediately snagged up the Tatra Lady boots to test out and wear on a few hikes.
ABOUT HANWAG
Hans Wagner opened his boot shop in 1921 in Vierkirchen, Germany, close to Munich. Wagner made a name for himself by producing high quality alpine skiing and touring boots. By the company’s 90th anniversary in 2011, Hanwag had become a staple in the hiking and outdoor sports world. From their website:
“HANWAG boots and shoes are primarily made in Europe. Only a small number of our components require lengthy transportation. We make approximately 30 per cent of our collection (the double stitched and mountain boots) at our headquarters in Vierkirchen, near Munich. We have further exclusive production facilities in Croatia, Hungary and Romania. Our relatively limited transportation requirements help further minimize our environmental impact.”
CONSTRUCTION
The Tatra boots are crafted with waxed nubuk uppers, lined with leather, and double-stitched onto a Vibram AW Integral sole. The leather is hard and waxy, but not crusty or plastic feeling. The upper, midsole, and insole rib are all genuinely double-stitched– you can see the flange on the edge of the midsole that proves that these boots are constructed extremely sturdily.
The chunky Vibram AW Integral sole provides great traction while still being flexible enough to maintain a natural gait. Hefty metal shoelace hooks allow for a highly adjustable fit around the ankle, which has a medium-high cut.
FUNCTION
These boots are immediately comfortable upon first wear. The perforated collar is attached to a soft, padded leather lining that keeps the foot stable and avoids rubbing. The insole is padded with Hanwag’s FussKomfort sole, which you can easily substitute or replace. So far, these boots have walked miles without an issue. Paired with a thick pair of wool socks, The Tatra will take you many, many miles in total comfort. They weigh 760 grams/1.7 pounds, which is on the heavier side, but the hefty sole and sturdy construction are worth it.
AESTHETIC
The Tatra’s color is what makes this boot model so eye-catching. Hanwag calls the color Aubergine or Eggplant 82, however, in person the boots are really a bit brighter red than they appear on the website. The color is muted enough to be tasteful, yet interesting enough to stand out from the droves of brown hiking boots on the market. The upper has an interesting rounded cut that gives the boot a modern twist. The medium-high cut looks great while maintaining ankle stability.
CONCLUSION
Hanwag’s Tatra Lady boots are an excellent choice for the frequent hiker. Their stability and expert construction speaks well of Hanwag’s legacy, and their unique aesthetic sets them apart from other similar boots. $280 is a very reasonable price to pay for hiking boots that will last years on the trail. These are boots that you’ll want to take on adventures for years to come.
Thrux Lawrence is one of the first companies BestLeather has had the pleasure of working with, and also the first company to pique my interest in leather. Because my barber is connected to the Thrux Lawrence flagship store, I repeatedly find myself perusing their leather goods, the outstanding collection of antiques, and generally longing to buy one of everything. Thrux Lawrence is a solid company who “builds them like they used to.” Even when it comes to coasters.
About Thrux Lawrence
I discovered Thrux Lawrence one day casually strolling the streets of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho with my sister. She had apparently heard about this awesome store that just opened downtown, and being the hip teenagers we were, we had to check it out. My first experience with Thrux Lawrence was very exciting. Tanden greeted us at the door and began explaining how his company was built around the principles of functional yet stylish design, limited supply, and Made in the USA. From that point on I was very interested in leather and its durability, longevity, and style, especially the products Thrux Lawrence has to offer.
Construction
Coasters may perhaps be the easiest leather accessories anyone could construct. But even with something so simple, it is still difficult to get the perfect result. Made from black 10-12oz bridle leather, these coasters are as indestructible as any of the other Thrux products. Occupying the standard coaster size of 4 x 4 in, this coaster provides adequate space for even the largest of drinks. The burnished edges and Thrux Lawrence logo add just enough flair to the coaster.
Function
I have yet to come across a drink that will not fit on these coasters. And even if I had, I should never be drinking that much anyway. The coasters function extremely well. The leather is thick enough to prevent moisture underneath, but not too thick so drinks tip over if they are not placed all the way on the coaster. I have been pleased with them so far, and they will most definitely outlast any non-leather coaster.
Aesthetic
Black is one of my favorite colors. It is simple, goes with almost anything, and in the case of coasters, prevents any discoloration. The Thrux Lawrence coasters are very rigid. Their strength reflects the principles this company was founded on, and even though coasters are very simple, they’ve continued to abide strictly to those principles.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a simple set of quality leather coasters, check out the shapes and colors Thrux Lawrence has to offer. Whether you choose squares or circles, black or brown, the coasters will be the same quality. Coming in at $25, the Thrux Lawrence Leather Coasters are an excellent choice for simple, effective leather accessory.
Women’s wallets can be kinda goofy. I’m not a huge fan of giant checkbook-sized wallets, but pockets on women’s jeans and pants are never big enough to fit a pocket sized wallet. It’s a lose-lose. So I am always on the lookout for interesting women’s wallet idea. Maxwell Scott offers up a cute alternative with their ball clasp coin wallet, dubbed The Sabina.
ABOUT MAXWELL SCOTT
“Family owned and run, Maxwell Scott Bags is founded on a shared love of Italy, a passion for design, and a firm belief in the importance of excellent customer service.” Currently based out of York, England, Maxwell Scott Bags was founded in 2002 with one goal: to become the most loved British bag company in the world. With a company revamp in 2013, the founders began a new vision. “The new brand identity comes from a blend of elements considered sacred to the company founders: craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a passion for creating individual style.” Be sure to read up about the company and its history, as well as keep up with the Maxwell Scott Journal. We recently reviewed their pen case, known as La Pienza. You can read the review here.
THE LEATHER
Maxwell Scott uses full-grain vegetable tanned cowhide, raised and tanned in Tuscany. You can read a bit about the heritage of their Italian tannery and veg-tan process on their website. The waxy, full-grain leather has an interesting, almost marbled look to it. I wasn’t entirely sold on this when I first saw it, but I’ve come to appreciate the patina it has acquired. It also protects it from looking scratched or dirty after being carried around in a purse.
The inside is lined with light pigskin that is durable and contrasts the leather nicely. The Sabina comes in three colors – classic tan, dark chocolate, and night black. My night black color is very versatile — it can look fancy but it’s also not too over-the-top for everyday use. For an extra $25, you can have up to six letters embossed on the purse, in blind, gold or silver.
CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION
The Sabina Coin Purse is rather small, at 5.7″ x 2″ x 4.5″. It’s small enough that I can grab it and my phone in one hand, which for some reason feels very convenient to me. In my opinion, it’s not quite big enough to be used solely as a clutch purse, but that really comes down to personal preference as I’m not the type to use a clutch. However, I find it to be the perfect size to throw into a crossbody purse or handbag. It’s also be great for trips to the bathroom if you use it to hold lipstick or other cosmetics.
The Sabina’s leather is expertly gathered up at the top by beautiful brass edging and fastened with a sturdy ball clasp. It has two separate internal pockets separated by a middle divider. The divider is hinged so that you can access either pocket easily. I like the shape and size of this coin purse because the coins sink to the bottom and leave plenty of space for cards and a few folded bills. I wouldn’t put more than four or five plastic cards in there, or else it would be difficult to access the coins at the bottom. I’ve found that I like to keep chapstick and a few sticks of gum on one side, and coins, a bit of cash, my ID and two other cards in the other. The hinge still functions perfectly, even with all those things in there. It’s become a great catch-all for all those little things that roll around on the bottom of my purse. Of course, it doesn’t have to be used as a wallet, either. There’s plenty of space for lipsticks, powder, or even a mini mascara if you’d prefer to use it as a fancy travel cosmetics case.
CONCLUSION
I’ve come to really like The Sabina Coin Purse from Maxwell Scott and its vintage, feminine aesthetic. It’s become my everyday carry wallet and it has encouraged me to pare down on the amount of cards I carry (I haven’t missed them one bit). $100 is a bit steep, but this purse is crafted from gorgeous leather and constructed beautifully. It also comes with a 25 year warranty should anything go wrong, which I highly doubt would.
After spending several hundred dollars on a tablet, the last thing you want to do is scratch it, shatter it, or otherwise damage it. Thankfully there are tons of options out there when it comes to high quality tablet cases, tablet sleeves, or folios. We’ll be looking at The Professional, from Conestoga Leather. Conestoga Leather focuses almost exclusively on luxury tablet folios, with three goals.
1) Design it to be undeniably beautiful and extraordinarily functional
2) Use only the finest of domestic bison leathers
3) Place those leathers in the hands of the best artisans in America.
About Conestoga Leather
Colorado-based Conestoga Leather features craftsmanship by the Amish community nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Their product line, which includes folios, bags, and valet trays, has a heavy focus on functionality and design.
From their website: “Our goal is to offer quality, American made products that are handcrafted by artisans. We desire to be fairly priced but realize that we do not have the advantages of large companies who build items by the tens of thousands. Our products are often crafted one at a time. “
Construction
Handcrafted from genuine bison leather, this zippered folio’s construction is impeccable. It’s quite large, at 11” x 9.25 x2.5, but it’s cushioned for drop protection and can fit everything you need for a meeting or business trip.
The Professional has three multipurpose pockets with plenty of space for your tablet, a 5×8 notebook, and pen. There’s a center leather flap with credit card slots, and a diagonal-cut sleeve for loose-leaf paper. The riveted piece on the front hinges outward to act as a desk stand.
The tablet is held in the folio with leather straps at the corners. Upon purchasing, you can choose what tablet you will be using, and the straps will adjust size and position accordingly. You can also choose whether you are right or left-handed, and whether you want brown or black bison leather.
FUNCTION
My brother has been using this folio for several weeks now, and has quickly become a daily staple. Here’s what he has to say about The Professional:
“High quality, very functional, not too bulky. The snaps to remove and install the iPad are easy to use and durable. The notepad holder works very well. The card holder pockets are handy and easy to use. The leather stand is surprisingly durable and handy when you want to view your iPad for an extended length of time. I still don’t know what the purpose of the front top pocket serves. If I had to choose, I’d rather just have a larger storage pockets there or two more additional small pockets. It is difficult to access the power button on the top of your iPad to turn it on and off.”
CONCLUSION
The iPad is very secure and protected in this case. It is a good looking, good smelling case that is both functional and stylish. This is not a minimalist folio. It has a much more traditional aesthetic. If you’re looking for something simple, this is probably not the case for you! However, you are getting a high quality bison leather piece, handcrafted in the USA. At $299, it’s certainly not cheap, but nothing about this piece is cheap. The Professional is currently on sale for $229, a $70 discount, so snatch one up if you’re in the market for a multipurpose tablet case.’
I used three words to describe the American Bench Craft Hammer Riveted Leather Wallet upon receiving it: stylish, durable, and compact. If you’re looking for an artisan-crafted wallet that will let you carry the essentials and look good doing it, this may be the wallet for you. The wallet comes in its own box and drawstring bag stamped proudly with Made in the USA on the front. If you’re someone who has come to associate that phrase with quality, you will not be disappointed when handling this wallet.
Yes, you’re going to have to get rid of some of those punch cards and discount cards, but think about it this way: your butt-bump will be smaller, it will fit in your coat pocket more easily, and did I mention the word stylish?
About American Bench Craft
Jason and Chris Angelini founded American Bench Craft to create a better wallet that was as tough as it is beautiful. The brother’s different backgrounds lend themselves well to the leather business: Jason is a mechanical engineer in charge of product design, while Chris’ experience in business gives him an edge in promoting and marketing their brand. Today, American Bench Craft carries a full line of products from their riveted wallets to custom engraved dog collars. You can find all of their products online at the American Bench Craft Store.
Construction
The construction of the Hammer Riveted Leather Wallet is what is going to separate it from the traditional wallet you’ll find in a department store. Single-piece premium steer hide bridle leather sourced in the USA? Check. Rust-resistant plated steel rivets eschewing the tradition of stitched seams? Yep. Compact design weighing only 50 grams and measuring an average of 1.4 millimeters in thickness? You got it.
Jason and Chris use vegetable-tanned leather for this wallet, as it gives rich and warm tones that look more natural than a chromium salt or acid tanning process. Vegetable-tanned leather requires a high degree of craftsmanship to produce and costs more than other types of leather, but it is the only choice for this wallet.
Those with an eye for detail will also appreciate the double-capped rivets throughout the wallet, rather than leaving one end uncapped as you’d find in many other leather products.
Function and Aesthetic
As much as I trust my taste in all things leather, the unique design of this wallet merited a second, third, and fourth opinion. Some comments were solicited and others were made the first time someone noticed the wallet.
The rivets versus traditional stitching are a hit in their look and functionality. As I paid for my purchase at a local coffee shop, the barista noticed the wallet and called all of her co-workers over to take a look. The gold-colored rivets caught their collective eyes, and the one-piece design drew them in. Other commenters said the leather felt stiff, but understood it will mold to shape and end up with a nice patina over time.
I’ve spent a few weeks with this wallet in my back pocket to help break it in and see how it felt. At some point during the day, I forgot it was even there. It was comfortable, and I didn’t experience the numb legs I’ve heard of others getting from having a bulky wallet in their back pocket.
Conclusion
Living in the modern world, I already owned a wallet prior to this one. Now that I’ve had the American Bench Craft Hammer Riveted Leather Wallet for a couple of weeks, I’m considering keeping two for my personal treasury. The wallet looks great, is well constructed, compact, and attracts the attention of those appreciative of all things leather.
I’ll admit that I am sometimes one of those guys who likes to keep the coffee punch cards and coupons in my wallet. This wallet is not designed for that person. It is designed for the person who wants to keep only his credit cards, identification, and cash in one easy-to-access place. Don’t overstuff this wallet with plastic and paper, and you’ll never have the issues of cards falling out when you least expect it.
On a final note, this wallet merits a follow-up review in a few months for a demonstration of how it has been broken in and development of the patina. I’ll let you know more when I’ve had a chance to road test it for a while. If you make the choice to purchase this wallet with the size caveats in mind, you’ll have no regrets. The care and quality in this design make it worth every penny of its $69.00 retail price.
Every once in a while here at BestLeather, we see a product that makes us think “Why didn’t I think of that?” The Westward Leather Double Tray Dopp Kit is one of those products. It’s both a great idea and a great execution. Let’s take a look at what makes this dopp kit so exceptional.
About Westward Leather Company
Based in Spokane, Washington in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Westward Leather Company handcrafts bags, belts, wallets, and more – all with American heritage style in mind. From their website:
“Westward Leather Company has been a long time in the making. In reality, it’s less of a company, and more of a creative perspective. WLC’s beginnings are scattered and gathered from a multitude of life experiences and travels, and from a personal search for quality and craftsmanship in all fields, throughout history. Such a search so often has led us into the archives of vintage and antique, where we have always been most impressed by the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestor’s generations. And yet, at the same time, history is riddled with terrible actions and decisions as well. Somewhere in the middle of these two opposites is where Westward Leather Company was born.”
We had the chance to meet with Ben, the founder of Westward Leather, at one of our favorite coffeehouses in downtown Spokane (Rocket Bakery). “Basically, I make containers for people to use for their stuff…”, is how Ben explained his company. This might be true – but, his containers look fantastic and are built to endure years of use.
Construction & Function
Handcrafted from beautiful 8-ounce heavily oiled bridle leather, this kit features overlapping double hand-laced waxed nylon seams, and solid copper hand-set rivets. This dopp kit won’t be falling apart any time soon. The two-finger carry handle is interlaced with the seam and stays fairly flush against the side for easy packing and carrying.
At 8” x 6” 2.75”, the Double-Tray Dopp Kit is the absolute perfect size. A lot of dopp kits on the market are simply enormous and end up hogging half of your carry-on suitcase or duffle. This one is the perfect size to fit all the essentials—toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, pomade, etc., without overwhelming your weekender bag.
The greatest feature this dopp kit is its genius lid design. The lid is designed to be entirely removable to act as a valet tray on the go. Simply unfasten the wrap around strap with solid brass snap, and you immediately have a valet tray to set on your hotel nightstand. It’s a great catch-all for your keys, change, wallet, and hotel keys, and you don’t even have to think about packing it because it’s attached.
Aesthetic
The 8-oz bridle leather comes only in this attractive chestnut shade. The valet tray and the bottom of the dopp kit fit together very smoothly and compactly. The buffalo stamp in the bottom right corner is a subtle reminder of Westward Leather’s heritage theme. This dopp kit looks like nothing else on the market and is sure to be a standout product for Westward Leather.
Conclusion
The Westward Leather Double-Tray Dopp Kit is a very unique, standout product. It’s handmade in the USA, features double-stitched seams, copper rivets, and a genius design. For $180, you’re getting a great dopp kit as well as a valet tray. This is a product that I plan on carrying on every trip for the foreseeable future. And, it definitely qualifies as a Buy It for Life product. Be sure to check out Ben’s other great products on the Westward Leather website.
Thank you to all who entered the Craft & Lore giveaway! Keep an eye out for more giveaways coming soon!
Craft & Lore is partnering with BestLeather.org to give you a shot at winning one of their Port Wallets. The company, located in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is an independent design and build workshop, focusing on leather goods that are simple in form and function. Craft and Lore recently launched a Kickstarter for their Port Wallet ($39 only on Kickstarter), a minimal handmade wallet made to carry your indispensable cards plus some cash. Last year, we reviewed the Port Wallet, and here’s what our reviewer Ben had to say about it:
“The Port Wallet is a simple, no-fold, four pocket workhorse designed to carry 7-8 cards in the central pocket, as well as a few bills and a drivers license. With 4-5oz hand tanned leather and saddle stitched waxed polyester thread, this wallet is absolutely built to last — most importantly, it is able to withstand the abuse of day-to-day goings. From trips to the coffee shop on my bike to long commutes in the car, this wallet hasn’t appeared to even begin to wear in any way after three weeks of being in my back pocket. The Port Wallet is built to last. Period.
This wallet can be described in just one word: clean. The color of my vegetable-tanned leather Port Wallet reminds me of a fine 15 year single malt scotch: a rich, mesmerizing amber. The stitching accents the clean simplicity of the wallet. The leather is smooth and extremely soft to the touch; it’s an pleasant experience each time you reach in your front pocket.”
This time, we will be selecting FOUR winners, each of whom will be able to choose a Port Wallet in Natural, Medium Brown, Dark Brown, or Mahogany. The giveaway runs from July 16th to July 28th, so enter now for your chance to win!
About a month ago I decided it was time to invest in a quality camera for all my photography escapades. I wanted a professional quality camera that didn’t require 20lbs of clunky, additional gear to haul around. I decided to go with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. I have thoroughly enjoyed the camera and lenses I have. But I did forget one thing: a quality camera bag. I began searching for leather camera gear to review and I found ONA Bags. This stylish leather company graciously agreed to a review and I jumped all over the opportunity. “The Brixton” is truly an outstanding camera bag.
About
ONA Bags was founded in 2010 with the goal to provide stylish, high-quality camera gear for creative professionals and photographers. Based out of New York City, this company is dedicated to perfect design and functionality. “Our design process is driven by a desire to create products that complement your style and protect your gear. We believe that your camera bags and accessories should be rich and imaginative, like the photos you love to take.” It is immediately evident from The Brixton that this style-conscious leather company is passionate about quality leather goods.
Construction
Like all ONA products, The Brixton is constructed using premium full-grain leather. The Italian-tanned leather has been treated with a light wax finish that is easily scratched and marked which gives the messenger an extremely attractive patina. The Antique Cognac color is contrasted by the antique brass tuck-clasp closure and darker brown waxed-cotton canvas. Built 13.5” long by 10.5” high by 5” deep, the Brixton is designed to carry a camera, up to three lenses, a 13” laptop, and other small camera accessories such as batteries, caps, and filters. The inside consists of four moveable dividers made out of closed-cell foam. The dividers can be taken out or moved around to allow adequate space for the lenses or camera. On the bag’s exterior, two front and side pockets provide ample storage for the additional small gear you may carry. The Brixton is an extremely well designed and constructed camera messenger bag that will protect your expensive camera gear in style.
Function
I have taken this bag on more trips than any bag I own, and this is in only with 5 weeks of use. The Brixton is the perfect bag to take with me, even when I don’t plan on taking pictures, although we all know that some of the best shots are spontaneous and planned last second. This leather bag functions as more than a bag to carry your camera. Because it has been built with so much passion and personality, I have found that I enjoy using the bag exclusively as a messenger that happens to also perfectly hold my camera. The laptop sleeve and moveable dividers are healthily padded and protective, so I never worry that any of my gear will not be adequately secured.
My favorite functioning pieces of this messenger are the brass tuck-clasps. Never once have the claps opened by themselves. It is pleasing to know that your camera gear is safe, especially when the total value in my messenger exceeds the value of my 1970 VW Beetle. On a typical day out with the Brixton, I have my Olympus camera, a macro lense, a 12-40mm pro lense, two small body cap lenses, a GoPro Hero 4, an extra camera battery, extra SD card, camera charger, and a few other small items. I’ve never run out of room with all of this gear, and the bag is also never too heavy, even with my MacBook air inside. The Brixton is an impressively flawless functioning camera bag that I enjoy taking everywhere I go.
Aesthetic
The Antique Cognac color is perhaps one of my favorite colors of leather I have worked with. As mentioned earlier, because the leather has been waxed, it is easily marked and scuffed up. I personally only enjoy certain functioning bags to develop the patina everyone seeks after. The bags I want to develop patinas are the bags I take on trips and other ventures. I do not want my business or professional bags to be marked or scuffed. The Brixton is my number one adventure bag, so the patina and marks it has already develop are very welcome in my eyes. Every time I use The Brixton I am pleased with how it functions, feels, and especially, looks. Photographers in Banff, Mt. Bachelor, Portland, and pretty much everywhere I have taken the Brixton ask about it and what I think. Every time I tell them I have enjoyed every moment of its use, and if you are searching for a stylish bag to hold a solid amount of camera gear, ONA Bags has several choices for you.
Conclusion
ONA Bags has impressed me from the very beginning. Their line of products is unmatched in the leather camera gear market, their employees are respectful and earnest, and the bag I own has been flawless. I couldn’t ask for anything else from a leather company. If you are an established professional photographer or even an amateur like I am, taking a look at ONA Bags and investing in a quality leather camera bag will not be a decision you regret. At $429, The Brixton is a fantastic choice and will outlast your expensive camera gear. Head over to their website to check out some leather camera gear that you deserve.
Suus is a new brand out of San Diego, California, who recently launched a Kickstarter for their leather bags, pouches, and holsters. The brand was founded by Sandino Cabrera, a graphic designer, who wrote:
One day, I came across a leather workshop. I was amazed by the work of these artisans, and the craftsmanship. I found fascinating how versatile leather can be, that gave me a new vision to expand my creativity and create innovate products. For me, one of the keys to be innovative is to solve the problem in the most stylish and fun way possible. That’s how SUUS was born: a brand that desires to solve carrying needs, founded in offering individuality, functionality, durability, and attention to detail.
Suus begins with 4 basic principles:
Functionality & Specialization: Everyone has individual styles and diverse daily activities: entrepreneurs, bikers, attorneys, photographers, designers, and chefs among others. That inspired us to create pieces that can fit your personality and at the same time improve your carry needs.
Individuality: We are going to laser engrave your name on each piece. Thanks to new techniques and processes, it is possible to express your uniqueness in each product.
Lasting: We value time. We are a generation in demand for non-disposable products. Hence we look for top quality materials and manufacturing processes, to provide you with long lasting warranties.
Detail: To create a high-end valued product, we put special attention to each minimal detail. Our interiors are full of life, we pledge to collaborate with the art community, that way we support upcoming artists and at the same time deliver a new experience in every piece.
THE PRODUCTS
Cody Holster: Cody is a holster inspired by the old Wild West. The purpose is to release men from inconvenient placement of cell phones, keys, wallets, or whatever personal stuff men carry on their pockets on daily basis. To maximize the versatility you can detach the pouch and just use with your belt. You can snatch up the Cody for $130 during the Kickstarter.
If you want to know more about Holsters, Check this post about Top Sold Holsters.
Cooper Purse: The Cooper is a classy daily purse that fits everything. The compartments are strategically placed to improve usability. It has one easy access key compartment. Plenty of room and the SUUS secret feature! One detachable cosmetic pouch that functions like a divider inside the purse thanks to a zipper sewed to the edge. If you snatch it up early enough, you can get the Cooper Purse for just $195.
Suus still has several weeks left on their Kickstarter, so be sure to check out their page and their website. You can watch their video below:
Photography can be a very rewarding hobby and just about everyone dabbles in it at some point. So if you’ve mastered the Starbucks macros and decided to get into some serious picture taking, you’ve likely bought a camera body, lens, SD cards and a plethora of other gadgets. Now you’ve got all this great gear and no place to carry it! Before you buy that cheap black nylon case from Best Buy, I’d recommend researching some quality leather alternatives like the Wotancraft Ryker Camera Bag.
ABOUT
Aside from having a ridiculously cool brand name, Wotancraft has an interesting backstory. When we reached out about the company’s past, they replied as such:
We created WOTANCRAFT ATELIER back in 2008. We shared the same crazy love for Panerai diving watches, but are just too frustrated to realize that none of the aftermarket leather straps are worthy of the inspiring and nostalgic military background of Panerai. At one point, we figured that if no one else is up for it, then maybe we should be the ones to make it happen. The guys at WOTANCRAFT are very intuitive when it comes to our creations and aesthetics. In 2010, when our friend walked into our atelier carrying a WWII Swiss Army backpack and a Leica M6 camera, right then we made the decision to create tough, rugged and military inspired camera bags, which lead to our launch of the “City Explorer” series, with military-hovercraft-grade waterproof inserts that people have never seen before in the camera bag market.We are continuously growing, not in business size, but in our ambition for greatness. Our existing lineup of products are being enhanced through generations, because we want to make every creation our classic, not fashion items that are created and discarded per market trend. Same goes for aesthetics. Many of our friends make fun of us having “old souls” living in our bodies, because we don’t make our products “teen-friendly” enough. But that’s the way we are; if you want to stay true to yourself, pleasing everyone is just not an option.
For those wondering, Wotancraft is named after Wotan. In Germean mythology he was the god of war and victory. Atelier is the French word for “workshop.”
CONSTRUCTION
The Ryker is a medium sized bag coming in at roughly 11” long by 9” tall and 4.5” wide. At 3 lbs 3 oz it’s lightweight without feeling cheap. Wotancraft provided us with some insider specifics about the leather used:
We use thick, full grain leather for all products, where the pores and skin textures are still visible, and we manually trim the leather if different parts require doing so. This is a lot more work and more costly than padding materials beneath thin leather processed by provider (how cheaper bags in the market are made), but for us this process has to be done to ensure the right look and hand-feel when bending the leather.
We are also very specific in the leather characteristics that we use. The leather trim and shoulder strap on a Ryker bag is tanned with vegetable agents such as Quebracho, Chestnut and Acacia, which gave the bag an overall scent of fresh sweetness. We could have easily chosen leather that smells like ordinary leather and does not cause any love-or-hate contradictions, but for us love outweighs all others. It’s the same with the grain texture on the Ryker bag, we just love the specific hand-feel of such texture, and elegantly accentuated by the smooth oil-enriched trim and velveteen lining.
All metal hardware is used for the buckles and rivets. Bronze YKK zippers are used with a rustproof coating. An incredibly soft, padded velvety interior is used to protect contents.
FUNCTION
The main functions of a camera bag for me are to protect the contents and to provide fast access. The Ryker has a magnetic flap which reveals a top loading zippered compartment. This configuration provides more overall protection but with the small cost of an extra step in accessing your gear. The adjustable, padded shoulder strap is very comfortable and provides great cushioning when carrying heavy loads. Even after a long day of shooting around town, my shoulder and traps held up fine.
Thanks to the padded inserts and velcro walls I can securely pack my lens and body with virtually no wiggling around when on the move. The interior slotted pocket is great for carrying a 7” tablet or thin books. The smaller exterior storage options include the zippered pocket which is handy for smaller loose items such as memory cards or film.
The Ryker will typically fit around 3 lenses and a camera body depending on your actual gear. I like to pack minimally so I had my 35mm, body, and 70-200mm lens all in the bag with no issues. The only features lacking that would make the bag easier to use for me would be a handle along the top so I can carry it briefcase style when not using the shoulder straps, and possibly buttons instead of magnets to increase the flaps secureness.
AESTHETIC
The Ryker is easily one of the most handsome camera bags I’ve come across. The large panels of whiskey colored leather contrast beautifully with the dark brown pieces. The hardware demands attention and I ironically find myself snapping images of the bag rather more so than anything else! The real selling point visually is the Ryker’s ability to look good in a variety of environments. Whether on the trail or in the city, this bag never looks out of place. Another great benefit is it looks like a messenger bag so you’re not advertising the fact that you have expensive camera gear on you. Looks good with an axe too, which is a major plus.
CONCLUSION
Wotancraft’s Ryker Camera Bag’s looks and quality is head and shoulders above any option found in a big box store. At $379 it is pricey, but once you hold it in your hands the cost will likely seem justified. If you’re on the hunt for a bag that will securely protect your camera gear and look picture perfect in the process, I’d recommend checking this bag out.
If you had to have one bag for the rest of your life, what would you get? For most of us here, this is a near impossible question because there are so many great, quality leather makers out there, but after spending a month with my OliverGé Metropolitan 505, I can confidently say that this would be a major contender. Its sleek, minimalist design, impeccable quality, and impressive versatility make this bag a dream.
Construction
From the very beginning, I could tell that this bag was built to last, but that’s not to say it is over built. The exterior is made with just three pieces of full-grain vegetable tanned leather, the interior is lined with gorgeous calfskin, and everything is saddle stitched together by hand with durable polyester thread.
Everything is masterful done. The stitching is evenly spaced, the burnished and dyed edges are some of the best, and the lines of the bag are crisp and clean, but don’t take my word for it. Check out the master at work in the video below.
Function
The 505 has everything you need and nothing you don’t. I can say that with confidence for several reasons. First, the base design will easily carry most everything that anyone would need on a day-to-day basis. I haven’t had any problems fitting various reference books, files, and magazines into the bag along with my computer. However, when packed with a day’s load, there is little room left.
Secondly, the 505 is customizable. Part of the beauty of buying a bespoke bag is getting it tailored to fit your personal needs. If you need a pocket to carry your pens or charger, you can add them. If you want a compartment that will snuggly hold your computer, Olivier, the owner and craftsman behind OliverGé, will gladly take the dimensions and make a pocket for it.
For me, I typically walk to work so I added a shoulder strap to mine and I got to say, it’s extremely comfortable. The strap is made of a sturdy canvas and has a nice thick shoulder pad that broke in nicely after about a week and a half. On top of that, the bag itself is quite light for what it is (about 3.5 pounds) so even if I have it packed full, it doesn’t feel like a ton of bricks. I also, got a separate slot for my computer, which fits tightly into the slot.
The only issue I have run into is that it has a hard time standing on its own. This is due to the fact that the front, bottom, and back of the bag are all made of the same piece causing the bottom to be round. It hasn’t really been a problem though, since I always can just lean it against my desk or lay on top of the desk to pull things out of it. This is a small issue, but nothing that would cause me to hesitate buying this bag.
Aesthetic
This is one good looking bag. There are very few leather bags out there that can transition nicely between casual and business use, but in my opinion the Metropolitan 505 does this with ease. The minimalist style keep it from looking too much like an adventure bag, but also steers it away from the classic boardroom briefcase look. OliverGé has created a daily wearing bag that stands out among the rest with a unique look. It maintains the classical briefcase look while adding a bit of personal flare through the belt strap.
Typically I prefer not to have belts flopping around on my bags, but having one as the central strap really adds charm and makes this bag a winner in my mind. Not only does it function just as well as any lock or sewn on buckle found on traditional briefcases, but it breaks up the monochromatic, formal style without overdoing it. Of course if you want a single color throughout, you can get that too.
Once again, OliverGé bags are bespoke, giving you tons of options to fit your needs; including the way you want the bag to look. Olivier hand selects all of his leather from some of the best tanneries in Europe and then dyes and finishes them himself. You can request different waxing and oiling if you want it to be more rugged or glossy. You can even ask to get it “aged” where the bag will have a nice patina right from the start.
Conclusion
The Metropolitan 505 is truly a versatile and great looking bag. If I were to only have one bag from here on out, this would be it. I can use it when traveling to carry a few books and a computer without adding to much weight or looking like I belong in a law firm and I can take it into a business presentation without looking like I belong on an expedition. It simply fits its surroundings perfectly without losing any functionality or durability.
The big question is whether or not the Metropolitan 505 is worth its price tag. I can tell you with confidence, yes. This is an expensive bag, no doubt, but it is handmade exactly to your specifications by a true master craftsman who uses some of the best leather around. When I requested a shoulder strap, Olivier asked for my dimensions so that the strap would fit me perfectly and it does. Having a bag that has everything that you want in the color and style that you like and that is made to fit you is true luxury. Pair that with the lifetime guarantee and I would almost say that this is a value.
If you are in the market for a briefcase, but want to be able to use it outside of work, I would highly recommend OliverGé. Getting a bespoke bag is a rare experience, but it is a lot of fun and at the end of it all, you receive a bag designed for you and your lifestyle that will last you a lifetime.
Whether you’ve spent $100 or $1000 on your leather bag, it’s going to need conditioning. There are quite a few products on the market, with ingredients that range from almond oil to beeswax to unicorn tears. We recently received Moore & Giles No. 33 Luxury Leather Conditioner & Restorer.
ABOUT MOORE & GILES
Moore & Giles has been firmly entrenched in the leather industry since it was founded in 1933 in Lynchburg, VA. Currently, Moore & Giles employs more than 70 people in its headquarters in Forest, Virginia with representation in every major metropolitan area as well as strategic partnerships in England, Germany, France, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Moore & Giles designs and develops the world’s most luxurious natural leathers for leather upholstery, residential leather, hospitality leather and aviation leather. In 2007 they also introduced a collection of luxury leather bags and accessories as an additional avenue to showcase the inherent beauty and timeless appeal of their natural leathers.
No. 33 Luxury Leather Conditioner & Restorer
To formulate their brand of leather conditioner, Moore & Giles partnered with Tad Coffin Performance Saddles, an equestrian outfitter based in Ruckersville, Virginia. The all-natural formula comes in a rather large plastic container. It has an odd consistency that I haven’t seen in a lot of other leather conditioners– an almost grainy feel. I’d recommend patch-testing this cleaner in an inconspicuous spot, and don’t use it on suede.
Make sure your bag/purse/shoe/other item is clean, then use a damp cloth or sponge to apply a small amount of the cream to the leather. Rub it in vigorously and you’ll immediately see results. Some of the little grains don’t rub in immediately, so don’t be too gentle. If your leather is really dry, you can do this step twice. After two or three minutes, use a paper towel or dry cloth to remove any excess conditioner that didn’t soak in.
I used a Marlondo Leather desk pad as my guinea pig for this conditioner. As you can see in the pictures, the leather darkened up considerably and the color became even richer. The conditioner leaves a waxy feel that keeps the desk pad feeling conditioned and protected.
Overall, I was impressed with the performance of Moore & Giles No. 33 Luxury Leather Conditioner & Restorer. The $40 price is a little steep, but the huge container will last you forever. I’ve been conditioning pretty much every leather item I own (which is a lot now), and have barely put a dent in it. Be sure to check out the little instructional video Moore & Giles put together:
Jim Bridger, Kit Carson, John Colter, Jedediah Smith, William Sublette – all mountain men who embraced adventure and the unknown on a daily basis. During the westward expansion of the United States, these men and their ways, became the “legendary stuff of legends”. To this day their grandiose deeds inspire. One of the things these guys were known for was their “possibles bags”. Generally a possibles bag was made from some type of leather – most likely from an animal they had harvested on their own. This bag was used to carry Items they deemed necessary and critical to have at hand at all times. While I’m sure today’s list of ‘necessary, at hand items’ is much, much different than during those days, White Buffalo Republic has designed a series of “possibles bags” for modern day adventurers and we’re taking a look at their Fairview Messenger Bag.
About White Buffalo Republic
White Buffalo Republic is based in Afton, WY. Its full catalog of bags and cases are made in Guatemala. “White Buffalo Republic bags are unique, simple, useful, handcrafted works of functional art. While the modern adventurer and explorer’s tools have changed, the need to have a quality bag to carry the tools in has not. Our philosophy and operations are based on the “old fashioned” notions of attention to detail, pride in our product, and value for our customers. Our calling is not just to produce fine quality leather goods – we also strive to treat all with whom we deal fairly and honestly. We believe that these traits are the marks of true craftsmen.”
Construction
The Fairview, and all of their products, are made with locally sourced, full grain, vegetable tanned leather. The entire tanning process is actually done right in Guatemala by local craftsmen. Each hide is cleaned and dyed using natural oils and waxes to produce an attractive and durable finish. Once White Buffalo Republic’s own team of artisans get the leather, they hand cut and stitch each component of the bag. Every bag is hand stitched using the traditional double stitch method employed by saddle makers to produce an iron tough bond. The hardware is United States sourced stainless steel or nickel, all of which has proved to be sturdy and durable.
Function
The Fairview is nice and roomy, at 16″ x 10 ½” x 4 ¼”. It fits my laptop and other items well and has ample room for my books, magazines and papers from work. I would like to see a zippered section where I could store smaller things like change, cords etc. It would also be great if one of the inside pockets fit an actual tablet. I find myself putting it in a bigger pocket and I worry about it getting messed up. But none of these minor issues would have me going back to a cheap nylon messenger bag.
The 1 ½ “ strap is adjustable from 40 1/2″ to 54 1/2″ and includes a leather shoulder pad. The strap and its hardware both feel very sturdy and have performed with no issues. The carry handle is well sized and shaped, and provides a nice alternate carry method. You just need to ensure the main flap is secured in order to carry it with the handle.
Aesthetic
From the White Buffalo Republic website: “All of our bags are made of full grain, high quality, natural veg tanned leather. While each bag will fit the standardize size specifications noted in the description, not every bag will be exactly like the model shown in the picture. Your bag will be unique. Some bags come with brand marks, evidence of insect bites, or a myriad of other marks or scars that add character. (If you find yourself bored in a board meeting, you can let your mind ponder how that scar got there.)” The bag we received has an awesome brand mark right on the front of the bag, which definitely makes it a one of a kind piece. And, it’s something people notice, comment about, and overwhelmingly appreciate.
My Fairview Messenger is in the color “Antique Brown,” but it also comes in a natural veg-tan color. The Antique Brown color has a beautiful, rich coloring right out of the box, and only continues to darken and develop a gorgeous patina. The double strap, dark coloring, and squared edges really give it that western, rugged flair.
Conclusion
I think close to 20 people commented on my bag within the month I had it…and the comments continue to come wherever I carry it. Some of them have pulled me aside while walking into or out of our office. “Nice bag, man!” is what I hear a lot. And I do love the bag. I love that is sturdy. There isn’t anything about this bag that looks or feels like it is going to fall apart.
At $279.99, the White Buffalo Republic Fairview Messenger Bag is closer to the lower end of the price spectrum, but the quality easily matches bags in the $400+ range. This bag is sturdy, attractive, and quality, perfect for the “modern adventurer.” It definitely qualifies as an excellent purchase for the price. In addition to the Fairview Messenger, White Buffalo Republic has several other messenger and briefcase designs in their arsenal. Be sure to check all of them out.
Moore & Giles has been firmly entrenched in the leather industry since it was founded in 1933 in Lynchburg, VA. Currently, Moore & Giles employs more than 70 people in its headquarters in Forest, Virginia with representation in every major metropolitan area as well as strategic partnerships in England, Germany, France, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Moore & Giles designs and develops the world’s most luxurious natural leathers for leather upholstery, residential leather, hospitality leather and aviation leather. In 2007 they also introduced a collection of luxury leather bags and accessories as an additional avenue to showcase the inherent beauty and timeless appeal of their natural leathers.
We spoke to Thomas Brennan, their lead designer, on the phone and at the Magic Trade Show in Las Vegas in February. Thomas has been with Moore & Giles for almost 4 years, since September 2011. His route into bag design was a circuitous one, studying architecture, dabbling in the food service industry, and more. He started off at Moore and Giles as an intern after realizing his love for design.
“Moore & Giles is a great place to be a designer. With the full materials library from the Moore & Giles tannery available to me, I’m able to take advantage of working with almost any type of leather in-house,” says Thomas. As such, Moore & Giles keep their beautiful leather as the focal point of each piece, often sticking with a traditional shape or silhouette while digging into the details and making a piece look or function better than ever.
It takes approximately seven months for a new design to make it from concept to production. The Moore & Giles team cites collaboration and flexibility as the key to their success in design. Their team also does extensive in-house testing with their pieces before they release them to the public. Their own sales team, marketing team, and others within their employ use prototype bags and report back to Thomas on their findings, recommendations, and offer insight into how new bag designs should be finalized for production. And, with the bags that we’ve been able to review and use the end result is well worth the development and testing time.
Thomas’ favorite designs are the Zip Tote and the Crews Backpack. BestLeather has enjoyed reviewing their gorgeous Sportsman Duffel, Brennan Rucksack, and Donald Dopp Kit. Keep an eye out for more reviews of their Canady Haversack and their Sackett Messenger Bag. The video below is a short interview with Thomas about some of the Moore & Giles Bag designs. We’ve been very impressed with Thomas’ designs and can’t wait to see what he and Moore & Giles do next!
I’ll be honest and say I hadn’t thought much about coffee coasters in quite some time before I got my hands on the Thrux Lawrence Brown Leather Coasters. In this case, what you see is what you get: a set of four dark brown leather coasters with the Thrux Lawrence logo embossed on the edge. No frills – just quality, attractive leather to protect your furniture from the unwanted ablutions of a mint julep in the summertime. As is always the case with Thrux Lawrence products, the leather is well-made and beautifully grained.
About Thrux Lawrence
Tanden Launder founded Thrux Lawrence in 2012 with the idea of crafting high-quality, limited release clothing and accessory lines that are made in America. As a collector of vintage goods, Tanden has integrated his love of these items into how he creates the products they put out. By examining the qualities responsible for giving these products their beauty and longevity, he has been able to integrate these qualities into the lines of products he is offering today.
Construction
Construction is fairly simple with these coasters. The four pieces are made of a single piece of leather that averaged about 3.5 millimeters in thickness. The leather is thick, tough, and nicely grained. You’ll find the Thrux Lawrence logo embossed on one edge of each coaster.
Function
The Thrux Lawrence Brown Coasters measure 4 inches across and are large enough to hold all but the biggest super-size drinks. The thickness of the leather ensures no condensation is going to form underneath the coaster and ruin that solid oak coffee table your grandfather hand-carved with a pocket knife. Any liquid spilled on the coaster cleans up easily with a paper towel due to the lacquer on the coaster surface. As with any leather product, avoid getting them completely soaked. A damp cloth is the most these coasters should see to wipe up any spills or clean them off.
Aesthetic
The dark brown leather of the coasters is attractive, if simple. There are a few additions I thought would enhance the beauty of these coasters: the option to have the coasters embossed with custom lettering; and a stitching or embossing inset from the edge of the coaster. Embossing would look good as well as serve a purpose: it could trap any liquid running off a cup before it spills over the edge of the coaster. Stitching, while purely aesthetic, would set off the embossed lettering. The last addition that I’d enjoy for the coasters is a customized holder, leather or wood being my first two choices. They are currently packaged with a single rawhide lace that looks great, but could be misplaced. On a final note, because of the simplicity in the design and the dark color of the leather, these coasters would look at home out on the trail as much as they would on your dining table.
Conclusion
At the current price point of $25.00 for a set of four coasters, the Thrux Lawrence Brown Leather Coasters represent a good value based on what I’ve seen of other leather coaster sets on the market. They would also make a great addition as part of a larger gift set. Based on the product lines Thrux Lawrence already has out, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them offering additional options for this product in the future.
ABOUT MOORE & GILES
