ONA Bags “The Brixton” Review – $439

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.

July 14, 2015May 24, 2020

Suus Announces Kickstarter for Leather Bags, Pouches, and Holsters

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:

July 14, 2015December 19, 2017

WOTANCRAFT RYKER CAMERA BAG REVIEW – $379

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.

July 13, 2015December 19, 2017

OliverGé Metropolitan 505 Review – $1,280

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.

Check out this bag and other great gear from OliverGé at oliverge-leather.com!

July 10, 2015December 19, 2017

Moore & Giles No. 33 Luxury Leather Conditioner & Restorer Review – $40

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:

July 9, 2015December 19, 2017

White Buffalo Republic Fairview Messenger Bag Review – $279.99

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.

July 8, 2015December 19, 2017

Interview with Thomas Brennan of Moore & Giles

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!

Moore & Giles Bags: An Interview with Designer Thomas Brennan from Moore & Giles, Inc. on Vimeo.

July 7, 2015December 19, 2017

Thrux Lawrence Brown Leather Coasters (Round – Set of 4) Review – $25

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.

July 6, 2015December 19, 2017

Sandqvist Jones Doctor Bag – $327

Even here at Bestleather, a bastion for great design and the best products in the leather world, I seldom have as much to say about a good product as I do about Swedish company Sandqvist’s Jones Doctor Bag. Run by brothers Anton and Daniel Sandqvist and their friend Sebastian, the company creates a wide range of design-forward backpacks, totes, messenger bags and the like while drawing inspiration from the sparse and ruggedly beautiful backdrop of their home country. We had the opportunity to review their interpretation of the rare doctor’s bag. Without getting ahead of myself the verdict, at least aesthetically, is very good.

CONSTRUCTION

Half canvas and half full-grained leather, the Jones is a sturdy, metropolitan bag. The buckles are riveted and important seams are double stitched, but most of the bag is single stitched satisfactorily. The canvas is too thin to recommend outdoor recreational use, but city going and day to day affairs will go off just fine. The nickel plated brass hardware is all heavy and functional.

FUNCTION

Though it works better carried as a briefcase the Jones is also easy to use as a backpack, though it has some small issues when being used as such. The shoulder pads move around every time the bag comes off your shoulders, making constant re-adjustment necessary. In addition the straps have little adjustability for broader or narrower shoulders, so what you see is what you get. Again, the briefcase method goes off without a hitch if that is how you prefer to carry the bag. The canvas can tend to attract lint, which is a minor bother at worst. The canvas lining on the inside is helpful with small items which has various accessory pouches, and the 15” laptop sleeve is great to have. The buttons to adjust the bag’s mouth width tend to pop open which may be an individual quirk although it can tend to irritate.

AESTHETIC

The Jones has a very strong visual style which is what makes it such a talking point for me. With so many products flooding the market for leather bags something striking is difficult to find anymore. You can find that in the Sandqvist Jones Doctor Bag. From the beautiful black leather, subtle nickel plated hardware, or the excellently placed minimalist logo, this is a stand out in almost any crowd.

CONCLUSION

It might seem a little pricey for the amount leather used on the bag but what carries the Sandqvist Jones Doctor Bag up to its price point is the quality of the leather used and the undeniably great visual it provides. With a few small issues in terms of functionality comes a good looking bag with a lot of character and storage space.

For more from Sandqvist take a look at their website here: www.sandqvist.net

July 6, 2015December 19, 2017

Craft & Lore Launches Kickstarter for The Port Wallet

Craft and Lore, 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, a minimal handmade wallet made to carry your indispensable cards plus some cash. We recently 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.”

Craft and Lore Port Wallet 1 — Not pictured: $39 Black Wickett & Craig Harness Leather

Here’s some of the features of the Port Wallet:

Cut and saddle stitched by hand in North Idaho
4oz weight full grain vegetable tanned leather
W 2.75″ x H 4″ x D .75 ” (full)
6.9cm x 10.1cm x 1.9cm (full)

For $39, you can get the Port Wallet in a natural veg-tan leather from the Masure Tannery in Belgium, or in Wickett & Craig Harness Leather in medium brown, dark brown, mahogany, or black. For $59, you can have your Port Wallet crafted from soft and supple Horween Dublin leather.

$39 is a great deal for a handcrafted, saddle-stitched wallet, so be sure to check out their Kickstarter page and their website for more of Craft & Lore’s heritage goods.

July 3, 2015December 19, 2017

Fourth of July Sales Guide

America, land of the free, and the birthplace of some awesome homegrown leather companies. Check out these great 4th of July deals!

J. Peterman – Free shipping, and new items put on sale! Use code: BOOM

Grifter Company – Get 15% off your order using the code “4th”

Iron & Resin – 20% off everything! Use code “America”

Timberland – Get 30% off all sales styles!

Marlondo Leather – Buy a bag, get a free luggage tag, get 5% back when you purchase 2 or more products, and all purchases are entered to win a one-of-a kind front pocket briefcase!

Buffalo Jackson – Buy a bow tie, all proceeds go to purchasing a used car for families in need!

July 3, 2015December 19, 2017

Fjallraven Rucksack #21 Large Review – $225

I don’t think I have ever met anyone who didn’t enjoy a few days away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It truly is a natural thing that we all require to keep functioning. As you know I really do enjoy the luxury life, so completely abandoning everything is very difficult for me. But, when I do get the opportunity to sneak away, I love to have some of the finest, high quality gear to bring on my travels. The Fjallraven No. 21 Rucksack is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for quality, do-it-all gear.

About

Like many of the leather companies we have reviewed, Fjallraven began because of a distinct lack in quality, specialized goods. Fjallraven was founded by Åke Nordin in Northern Sweden. Åke was an adventurous boy when he realized the world needed better, long-lasting framed packs. His designs were the first of its kind, and once it caught the attention of other adventurers, by 1960 Fjallraven was officially born. With the base principles, of functionality, durability, and dependability, Fjallraven has grown into an enormous, world-wide adventure-seeking company. Adeptly named after the Arctic Fox, each and every Fjallraven bag resembles the traits of this tough, steadfast predator and the Fjallraven base principles.

Construction

The No. 21 Large Rucksack is constructed using natural vegetable tanned leather, YKK hardware, and Fjallraven’s signature heavy-duty G-1000 fabric. The rucksack is extremely durable and spacious. Standing at 52cm high by 29cm wide by 15cm deep, the rucksack is capable of 30 L of space. The thick leather straps attach securely to the metal posts and then are held in place by the metal loops, which covers the main compartment opening sheltered by a snow lock. The inside of the bag is very simple with only the large main compartment, padded laptop sleeve, and small items zippered case. The most durable, and most important part of this rucksack’s construction are the padded shoulder straps attached to sturdy leather strips with metal rivets. These straps are some of the more secure feeling shoulder straps I have pleasured my back with. The No. 21 Large Rucksack is constructed extremely well, and will definitely last for many, many adventures.

Function

I recently took the No. 21 Rucksack on a trip to Banff National Park. I was happy to be wearing the Fjallraven bag on my way to the Lake Agnes Tea House. In the bag I had an extra outfit, hoodie sweatshirt, Olympus camera, GoPro Hero 4, knife and flashlight, two bottles of water, portable power pack and phone charger, a glasses case, my tobacco pipe, and a Kammok camping hammock with straps. I actually still had room left over to put more things had I needed them. The No. 21 Rucksack functioned flawlessly. While I did receive a little irritation on my lower back from the leather rubbing my shirt, I realized later it was only because I had accidentally offset the adjustable shoulder straps when I was putting the bag on. The rucksack is a fantastic adventure bag with more than enough space for essential adventure items.

Aesthetic

The natural vegetable tanned leather is extremely soft and has already developed a lovely patina from consistent use. I have actually had this bag since February, so I have definitely used it often and taken it with me on several trips and motorcycle rides around central Oregon. The G-1000 material is pleasantly pliable, but still has that sturdy, well-made feel. The No. 21 Rucksack has been treated with Greenland wax, giving it an eco-friendly weather-resistant exterior. The rucksack comes in three sizes and several different colors. Each one contrasts perfectly with the natural leather and will definitely make a stylish adventure bag.

Conclusion

I have been very pleased by the Fjallraven No. 21 Large Rucksack. Fjallraven has done an excellent job combining the high-quality materials, adept functionality, and durability to make a great adventure backpack. If you are looking for a bag that can truly function in all conditions and settings, head over to the Fjallraven website and pick out a size and color. At only $225, the No. 21 Large Rucksack is a wise investment for the adventure-seeking traveller.

http://www.fjallraven.us/

July 2, 2015December 19, 2017

Barber Shop Introduces New Line of Bags & Accessories

There’s a new name in the leather world, an Italian company by the name of Barber Shop. Barber Shop is a collection of 11 styles, entirely designed and made in Italy, which includes 5 bags, 1 hand and 1 wrist-strap, a single and a double bridle and 2 different sizes of leather organizers. Quality, Italian style and functionality are the hallmarks of Barber Shop. Each piece is handcrafted in Bassano del Grappa (Vicenza) by skilled artisans.

ABOUT THE BARBER SHOP LINE

From the choice of the leathers, coming from the finest tanneries in Vicenza, to the design and manufacture of every single metal detail, the whole Barber Shop collection was conceived in the beautiful landscapes of Veneto. This soul makes the brand unique in the world of photography: 100% Italian. Barber Shop bags and accessories have been conceived and styled in Bassano del Grappa, a small jewel of a town set in northeast Italy, in the province of Vicenza.

The Barber Shop line was founded in Italy, the homeland of the classic barber: men with a passion for detail and a flawless craftsmanship. They take care of the face and style of a person: what best expresses their personality. The barber is the man you entrust with your own skin. The name Barber Shop recalls materials such as leather, the idea of an artisan workshop and urban style. Barber scissors and a razor are stylized in the logo. The ‘barber pole’ becomes a distinctive striped red white and blue tape sewn in all Barber Shop products, as well as in the elegant packaging boxes.

Barber Shop bags and accessories are made using selected Italian leathers and fabrics and offers top quality technical features. The unique style and versatility of Barber Shop bags make them perfect, despite the masculine name, both for men and women, and enjoyable also for daily life: just take out the camera satchel and you have a stylish bag for your everyday needs. And when you are shooting, the Barber Shop bags don’t advertise that you are carrying photographic equipment, which makes them safer for traveling. Whether photography is your job or passion, enjoy your special, inspiring moment without any compromise or concern. You need protection, comfort, speed, handiness and transportability for your gear. Barber Shop will take care of everything, so you just need to think about your next shoot.

Details are the hallmark of Barber Shop collection: details that are not just a matter of style, but they allow to live a greater experience, working with a functional, performing product, designed with the photographers’ needs in mind. The Barber Shop team capitalized on the knowledge gained working closely with photographers for years. Every detail of Barber Shop products is designed and tailored to fit the needs of photographers, without giving up style, elegance and the uniqueness of a hand-crafted product.

Barber Shop wants to give time its proper value. The same time that is necessary both to handcraft the highest quality and to give oneself the chance to fully enjoy a product. To handcraft a Barber Shop bag an average of 3 hours of passionate work are needed.

Keep an eye out for Barber Shop products coming this summer! We hope to produce some reviews in the next couple months. In the meantime, check out a few of the preview photos, and take a look at their website: www.barbershopbags.com

July 1, 2015December 19, 2017

Hammitt Roxbury Fringe Crossbody Bag Review – $585

I often talk about timelessness and minimalism in my posts, but I swear I’m not always boring. Sometimes it’s fun to go all-out with a fun, trendy piece, too. The Roxbury Fringe Crossbody Bag from Hammitt is just that. Immediately upon opening, I was impressed. Let’s take a look at some of the details that make this bag great.

ABOUT HAMMITT

Hammitt is a luxury accessories brand based in Los Angeles, California. Founded by Stephenie Hammitt, the company focuses on exceptional craftmanship and high-end design. Hammitt has developed a following of loyal customers, and can be found in dozens of boutiques across the United States. They also recently opened their very first flagship store located in Las Vegas, NV.

THE LEATHER

Hammitt’s South American leather is some of the softest and most supple I have ever felt, to be honest. Top-notch stuff, including the soft suede lining. The cognac color is bright and classic. The Roxbury Fringe Crossbody also comes in black, pewter, and a tan color they call Shirtless. Because of the high quality of the leather, the fringe stays flat and doesn’t tangle. I was worried that the fringe would break with use, but it’s not delicate or easily breakable at all.

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION

The Roxbury Fringe is medium sized, at 9.5 ” x 10.5″ x 1″. There are three zippered pouches, none of which are very large, but can easily hold a wallet, phone, keys, and other essentials. It’s constructed a bit like an envelope, with the thin upper zippered pocket folding over the main pocket. To get to the main pocket, you flip up the top part. Surprisingly enough, this doesn’t get annoying at all because of my favorite feature: an ingenious hidden slot for your cell phone on the back of the bag. I absolutely LOVE this feature, and it’s something I wish all my purses had. The cell phone pocket is very subtle and goes just deep enough to keep your phone secure without having to fish around for it. The little details like this are what makes the Roxbury Fringe feel so nice.

The hardware on this bag is also a standout feature. All the gold colored hardware is heavy, shiny, and just exudes quality. The zippers and zipper pulls are phenomenal. The strap is decorated with round flat studs and connects to the body of the bag with a hefty oval self-closing clasp. The strap is adjustable via two built-in rings that can be connected to the clasp to shorten the length of the strap, although the length is appropriate for cross-body use and I’ve never had to adjust anything.

AESTHETIC

The Roxbury Fringe Crossbody manages to strike the right balance between bohemian and classy. You can immediately tell that this purse didn’t come from Forever 21, but it still has a fun, festival look. I had never owned a fringe bag before, so I wasn’t entirely sure if I would like it, but I’ve found that it goes easily with any outfit, especially in the summer.

If you’re not totally into fringe, or just want to invest in a more timeless look, Hammitt makes the Roxbury without any fringe, as well as several similar styles such as the Roxbury Embossed and the Little Santa Monica.

CONCLUSION

All in all, I am very impressed by the Roxbury Fringe Crossbody. This bag isn’t cheap at $585, but its exceptional construction, hardware, and beautiful leather feel extremely luxe for the price. This isn’t a bag you’ll use everyday, but if you have the money for a niche item like this, I highly recommend Hammitt. Its fun, bohemian style is trendy and of-the-moment. Coachella may be over, but there’s plenty more summer festivals that this would be perfect for.

June 29, 2015December 19, 2017

Mario Latorre Bottini Review – $565

I have always been one to appreciate the finer things in life. I enjoy expensive clothes, shoes, food, products, and cars. A life of luxury and quality will forever be one of my ambitions. This desire of mine has been satiated for the time being by the Mario Latorre Bottini briefcase. This luxurious bag will change the way you carry yourself when it’s worn, change your opinion on expensive leather goods, and open your eyes to the world of technologically advanced and tested leather.

About Mario Latorre

I know we have mentioned Las Vegas and Fashion Week several times. But it really was a fantastic event for BestLeather. We met so many new companies and made so many new contacts. Mario Latorre was one of the companies who invited us in to their booth to talk and show off a beautiful line of leather products. Right from their “About Us” tab: “At Mario Latorre, we strive to bring classy and trendy designs to the modern man, with superb materials gathered from various countries. Elegance, quality and attention to detail is our mission, and we provide our customers with a unique experience and total satisfaction.” This company is dedicated to the fashionable man, and the Bottini Briefcase is an immaculate demonstrative piece.

Construction

The Bottini is constructed using some of the finest materials I have seen all in one bag. The premium black leather, quality Italian hardware, and red suede lining all come together in a classy, fashionable bag. The Bottini bag boasts nano-technology treated leather– the same leather used in BMW and McLaren automobile interiors. It undergoes numerous tests for quality and is absolutely long-lasting. The outside has one large zipper pocket, with a medium-sized zipper pocket on the same side within the bag. The other side of the inner lining consists of three pen or pencil slots, a phone or accessory sleeve, and three business card sleeves. My favorite part about this bag is how much space there is to put a computer, documents, and notepads. Built 15.5” long by 11.5” high and 4.5” wide, it will fit several notepads and documents alongside my MacBook Air.

Function

I have used this bag steadily for the last few weeks. It comes with me to college, coffee shops, and BestLeather meetings. The Bottini consistently functions flawlessly, and I am always pleased to be wearing the bag. It exudes class and elegance yet also functions in a way many other leather bags do not. The nanoparticles reinforced in the leather allow it to function in all climates and seasons. The water-resistant coating gives this leather briefcase one more advantage over other natural bags. I have used the Bottini in the rain once, on accident, and each raindrop seamlessly ran off. The Bottini does everything I need a leather briefcase to do and more. Overall, the Bottini is a consistently modern functioning bag that I love to use as often as I can.

Aesthetic

The elegant aesthetic is this bag’s most dominant asset. The clean black leather, contrasted with the soft, red suede lining gives the Bottini a professional attitude. The metal hardware is consistently flashy, but gives the Bottini the desired fashionable appearance. The only aspect of this bag that functions differently are the soft leather handles. The model I have is the older edition, and this issue of a too soft handle has been addressed in the newest model, which is available on the Mario Latorre website. It is obvious that much time, skill, and craftsmanship went in to making the Bottini perfect.

Conclusion

If luxury and elegance is as important to you as it is to me, the Mario Latorre Bottini briefcase is an appropriate choice. At $565, the Bottini is an investment, but one that will make a statement everywhere you go and last for quite a long time. It definitely qualifies as a Buy It for Life item. My experience with Mario Latorre has been a relished one, and their products reflects the type of leather company that BestLeather enjoys working with and suggesting to our readers. Head over to their website now to check out all of their fashionable leather bags and accessories.

June 26, 2015December 19, 2017

Waltzing Matilda NICA Sandals – $148

Summer is officially here, so it’s time to make sure you’ve got all your supplies together for a relaxing day at the beach. If you’re like me, you’ll pack a nice picnic, obsessively slather on 70+ SPF sunscreen, and grab your favorite shorts and sandals. The sandals part, however, is a little complicated. I’ve been checking out a few sandal options, so stay tuned for a couple of upcoming sandal reviews.

Today I’ll be looking at the Waltzing Matilda NICA Sandals, in Men’s Brown and Women’s Moc.

About Waltzing Matilda

“Everything we make is handcrafted in the USA in small micro-factories and meant to last forever. We make a strong effort to use repurposed and recycled materials found during our travels. We don’t compromise. We are creative, adventurous, and humble, and sincerely want to stimulate the senses with our pieces. Every hide is handpicked and has unique features and marks that add to the character and beauty of each product. We hope you love your new piece of art, and that it travels with you for a long time. Please let it age gracefully.” – Waltzing Matilda website

Waltzing Matilda actually got its start making this very sandal, born out of necessity during a surf trip in Nicaragua. After Mike, the founder, lost his shoes in a torrential rain storm, he crafted a pair of sandals out of an extra travel bag, and thus, the NICA sandal was born. Now, Waltzing Matilda is a full-fledged leather outfitter, making everything from shoes to bags to laptop cases to wine carriers.

CONSTRUCTION

Like all Waltzing Matilda products, the NICA sandal is made by hand in Maine. Featuring Horween leather, the body of the sandal is hand-tacked to a rubber Birkenstock EVA sole. The straps are anchored into the leather at the top and bottom with tacks and the two sections of strap are joined with polyester thread. I’m not entirely sure that this is the best decision when it comes to construction, but it does give the NICA sandal that stitched-together bohemian look that Waltzing Matilda has become famous for. After several months of use, however, I haven’t noticed any give or weakness in that area of the sandal, so take that with a grain of salt.

AESTHETIC

I love the way these sandals look. With the hand-tacked nails and unburnished edges, the NICA sandals have a unique look that sets them apart from other leather sandals. They aren’t pretentious or overdone, but definitely look like they are a quality item.

I wasn’t completely sold on the white Birkenstock sole on the Women’s Mocs, but after quite a bit of use, they don’t look as dirty as I expected, and they match well with the lighter leather. The Men’s Brown sandals are a beautiful, rich brown that goes well with any outfit.

FUNCTION

These take some breaking in before they get comfortable. When you first try them on, it feels a bit like wearing a two-by-four on your feet. The piece that goes between your toes is thicker than most sandals and takes some getting used to. But after a couple of wears, the leather breaks in and forms to your feet, making them extremely comfortable for daily wear. These are by far the most comfortable leather flip flops I’ve owned. My husband regularly steals them even though they’re not his size. I think I’ll have to get him his own pair!

The Men’s Brown pair has a leather sole, which can be somewhat slippery if you’re not used to leather soles. It’s probably a good idea to avoid a wipeout by scuffing the soles up a bit before you head outside.

CONCLUSION

At $148, the NICA sandals aren’t cheap, but you will get a LOT of use out of them. They’re perfect for a day at the beach, and look nice enough to wear for a casual dinner. They’re light and pack flat so you can take them anywhere. Waltzing Matilda also has several other sandal designs that I’d recommend taking a look at if simple flip flops don’t cut it. There are Roman sandals, Greek Sandals, and a third design they call “My Sandals.” Check ’em out!

June 25, 2015December 19, 2017

Alpha Industries MA-1 Flight Jacket Review – $365

Leather jackets are unquestionably some of the finest leather products you can buy. With so many different leathers, colors, fits, and styles, leather jackets singularly bring the most to the table in terms of personal fashion. When BestLeather heard about Alpha Industries and visited their wild booth at Fashion Week, we were beyond excited. At their booth we were given the chance to explain our reviewing process, and on the spot, Alpha Industries chose to set up a review of their MA-1 Flight jacket.

About

Alpha Industries is a company surrounded by heritage and tradition. Founded by Samuel Gelber to provide quality clothing to U.S. Armed Forces, Alpha Industries began as a small, 35-employee government contractor. Each product they make has an equally fascinating story to go along with it, so when you buy an Alpha Industries product, you really are getting a quality heirloom product. Today, this iconic company is a globally recognized leather and flight jacket forerunner. Because I could write for pages about Alpha Industries rich history, I’ll let you go ahead and play around with this famous company’s interactive timeline. Check it out here.

Construction

The MA-1 Flight Jacket is constructed using 100% real full-grain leather. It is immediately obvious that the leather on this military aviator jacket is high quality. The beautiful YKK antique brass hardware and zipper provide a refreshing contrast to its all black military attitude and the inside is lined with a diamond patterned polyester quilted lining. The diamond patterned lining is comfortable enough to wear in most temperatures.

On the outside, Alpha Industries has added a personal flair with their signature utility pocket, giving ample storage for several EDC items you want with you. The waistband and cuffs are made from heavy-duty 100% wool. Each seam on this jacket is expertly united, providing an extremely durable, comfortable impression. The skillful construction of the MA-1 Flight Jacket is one of my favorite features because it demonstrates that this jacket will last a very long time.

Function

I have taken this jacket everywhere. I take it on long motorcycle rides, to college classes, skydiving, weekend getaways, and I have even used it to go flying. Each time, without a doubt, someone has commented on the quality of my jacket. Every place I took the MA-1 Flight Jacket, especially flying, I realized just how well it functions. I am never too hot or cold because of the quilted lining, and I always feel pleased with this piece upon taking it off. I have begun to entertain a reputation of “the guy with all the leather” simply because my typical get-up is a leather jacket, leather briefcase or messenger, leather wallet, and leather shoes. It is quite a fun fashion statement to entertain. The MA-1 Flight Jacket is a classic aviator jacket with a refreshing, modern touch.

Aesthetic

The MA-1 Flight jacket comes in two colors, brown and black. Each color changes the whole statement of the jacket. Brown offers you the classic, vintage aviation jacket, while black causes an edgier and more modern look. Both colors are definitely a solid choice depending on your style.

As I said earlier, the MA-1 is a great jacket in most temperatures. I can wear it all day riding my motorcycle, and continue to wear it for the cooler afternoons. The softness of the leather allows adequate flexibility and motion enough for me to safely fly planes and ride motorcycles. Overall I have been extremely pleased with how this jacket has performed, and am eager to see how it ages.

Conclusion

Every fashionable man needs a good leather jacket in his wardrobe. If you are looking to make a statement and harken back to the leather loving armed forces of the day, the Alpha Industries MA-1 Leather Flight Jacket is an appropriate choice. In terms of leather jackets, the wise investment of $365 for this leather jacket will be a perfect addition to your style. Head over to Alpha Industries great website and see all the different styles they offer. We will be reviewing their G-1 Leather jacket shortly, so stay tuned.

June 24, 2015December 19, 2017

Colonel Littleton No. 60 Leather Phone Holster – $93

I don’t think I have ever been as excited as I was the moment I opened up my package from Colonel Littleton. The No. 60 iPhone 6 Holster’s luscious black leather may be spectacular and the ball stud closure may be impeccable. But the Moonpie is really what sold me. All jokes aside, I am pleased to be able to review another product from this unique leather company. The Colonel Littleton No. 60 Phone Holster is a one-of-a-kind creation.

About

Colonel Littleton has been a BestLeather favorite for quite some time now. With a story and history as rich and distinct as their’s it is hard not to like them as much as we do. Colonel Littleton is based out of Lynnville, Tennessee, a town with a population of 327. The real Colonel Littleton himself got his start selling vintage cufflinks in 1987, which sparked an interest in creating high quality, leather gift items. Now, 28 years later, Colonel Littleton makes bags, belts, hats, wallets, knives, cologne, and more, all with their unique Tennessee flair. And if you were wondering, every package they send out contains a Moonpie.

Construction

The No. 60 iPhone 6 Holster is constructed from Colonel Littleton’s specially tanned American full-grain leather. The black leather is some of the softest I have felt, and its expertly stitched seams really pull the piece together. There is not one single stitch misplaced, broken, or defective. The focal point of the phone holster is the ball stud closure. This high-quality metal ball stud is flashy but not overboard. The closure is extremely durable and easy to open and close. The vertical belt loop on the back is stiff and confident, really giving the impression of great protection and security. Famous for expert craftsmanship and their quality, unique materials, the No. 60 iPhone 6 Holster meets the typical Colonel Littleton standard of excellence.

Function

The No. 60 iPhone Holster comes in two sizes: iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The iPhone 6 holster is crafted specifically for the iPhone 6 with a small case or no case at all. If you have large case on your phone, Colonel Littleton recommends buying the iPhone 6 Plus case because of the adequate storage. Because I use my iPhone 6 without a case, I only saw briefly how well the iPhone 6 Plus worked for phones with large cases. Sliding the iPhone in and out of the case is relatively easy but shielded. Every time I have used this case I am pleased with its ease of use. It functions exactly how it is supposed to and that is something I always look forward to in my leather products.

Aesthetic

Colonel Littleton’s leather is consistently beautiful. Because they do not use “condominium cows” for their leather, each piece is unique – full of exclusive nicks, scars, and stretch marks. Although there are no beauty marks on my iPhone holsters, the rich black color is truly gorgeous. The holster does come in two colors; black and brown. Each color is equally high quality. Every time I use this phone holster I get remarks and questions. This phone case definitely makes a statement.

Conclusion

The Colonel Littleton No. 60 iPhone 6 Holster is truly a remarkable leather accessory. The deep black leather, classy metal hardware, and expert craftsmanship all seamlessly come together to make a great phone case. If you are in the market for an unobtrusive phone holster that still adds enough protection, this case is for you. The iPhone 6 version is $93 and the iPhone 6 Plus size is $105.50, making these cases an affordable quality leather accessory.

June 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Loyal Stricklin Aviator Mug Review – $30

When people are out and about I tend to observe what types of items they are carrying. For the majority of the population I have noticed that mugs are a requirement. Michael Stricklin, of Alabama based company Loyal Stricklin, has taken the idea of what a mug has always been and introduced a design that is simple, versatile, and downright clever. I have been completely impressed by the Loyal Stricklin Aviator Mug and use it for all my drinkin’ needs.

ABOUT LOYAL STRICKLIN

Michael Stricklin and his small team of makers built Loyal Stricklin from nothing. Michael and a few other people got together and decided that they were tired of purchasing low quality goods. To fix this problem they started making their own wallets, bags, and accessories.

With the attention to detail Michael and his team give to each and every one of their products, it would be rare to spot a fault in the work that they do. All of Loyal Stricklin’s materials are sourced right here in the United States and all goods are completely handcrafted from start to finish by the talented Loyal Stricklin team.

CONSTRUCTION

When it comes to how the Loyal Stricklin Aviator Mug is crafted, it would be difficult to think of something more beautifully simple. Crafted by hand from start to finish, the Aviator Mugs are made up of a 16 ounce Mason jar (with lid), gorgeous Horween leather, waxed thread, and solid brass rivets. All of these materials have been sourced and made right here in the U.S. with extreme attention to quality.

FUNCTION

As the name might imply, the Aviator Mugs are incredibly useful as mugs. Whether it is coffee ¬– my most common excuse to take my mug with me wherever I go – or simply an ice-cold cup of water it never ceases to do its job beautifully. I’ve even used mine to eat ice cream out of during this scorching summer. There is no wrong way to use these mugs, which I think is what makes them so uniquely functional.

AESTHETIC

When I look at the mug I see simplicity, quality, and a ton of character. It makes me feel good when I go to take a sip. For many people out there, they cannot say that about what they drink their coffee from on a daily basis. I can assure that anyone picking up one of these mugs will be quite pleased with their purchase and will have an item that can be passed down for generations. That is something to get excited about.

CONCLUSION

The Loyal Stricklin Aviator Mugs come in a variety of color options and is certainly an heirloom item that excels in quality and craftsmanship. These mugs make a great gateway into owning additional quality leather goods, and at $30 they are a wonderful value when taking this into consideration. So out of all those people walking around with mugs, make it stand out by getting the Aviator Mug by Loyal Stricklin.

June 22, 2015May 23, 2020

Mohinders Men’s City Slippers Review – $145

With spring here and summer on the way, finding the right casual footwear can be a pretty challenging task. I’ve never been a “flips flops” kind of guy but wanted something light and easy to slip on. After quite a prodigious search, I came across the Mohinders Men’s City Slippers and had to give them a go.

ABOUT

Mohinders was born when founder Michael Paratore came across a pair of hand woven leather shoes in the markets of Mumbai. It was back in the states when he decided to quit his corporate job and start a shoe company. What followed was a journey back to India to locate the artisans behind the shoes he first encountered. Once he finally tracked down the craftsmen, Mohinders was born. Taking the original design and tweaking the style, comfort and durability, the CIty Slippers aims to be a wear all shoe you can sport anytime, anywhere. Skeptical? Well, if a man quits a successful career and opens a company essentially based on one shoe, it must be worth a second look!

CONSTRUCTION

The City Slippers arrived in a very cool sackcloth pouch with a patterned lining. The shoes themselves are handwoven from vegetable tanned buffalo leather. The smell of the slippers conjured up memories of petting zoos but this was only noticeable when deliberately held up to my nose. Mohinders credits this unique aroma to the dyeing process that uses babul tree and the myrobalan nut. The sole of the City Slippers are natural crepe rubber. If you noticing a pattern, the Mohinder’s are about as natural as it gets. The environmental impact from production is about equal to playing a round of croquet on the neighbor’s lawn.

FUNCTION

If there’s one thing we like to stress about high quality leather products, it that there is usually a break in process to let the leather stretch and become pliable. That rule definitely applies to the City Slippers. At first they were a bit snug and I experienced a little abrasion on my pinky toe, but in the words of the great George Michael, you gotta have faith. As expected, the leather conformed to my foot perfectly. Not too tight where they felt constricted and loose enough to allow easy on and off. The crepe soles really impressed, very flexible and after several week of continuous use, show little wear and a promise of prolonged life.

AESTHETIC

The City Slippers are a welcome alternative to flip flops, Jesus Cruisers, mandals, and all other sorts of exposed footwear for men. I have pretty hairy feet (think Frodo Baggins) and don’t usually feel comfortable wearing traditional sandals. The City Slippers on the other hand look great and allow for that laid back vibe. The styling is very adaptive and I can wear these around the house just as easily as I can at the farmer’s market. Served with chino shorts and an Oxford with rolled sleeves and you’re good to go.

CONCLUSION

The Mohinders City Slippers are a solid option for men who aren’t into the whole sandals thing, or who simply want a new, casual good looking summer footwear option. The $145 price tag is a little steep, but you’re supporting artisans in rural communities, and wearing an environmentally conscious shoe. Oh, and you’ll look good every step of the way.