West Coast East Leather Tool Roll Review – $60

When I’m looking to organize my tools or gear I want something that’s going to be built tough, catch the eye, and be versatile. Just as I have curated a fine selection of tools of my trade over many years, I want to find a great case to protect and show them off. After a bit of hunting, I found these elegant leather tool rolls handmade by Gail Carrigan and her shop West Coast East.

Gail started building these tool rolls about 2 years ago when she needed a small, retro style tool roll to fit in the small trunk of her 1960’s sports car. Having worked with leather earlier to recreate the vintage bags of her parents, she self taught herself to make these tool rolls with a main objective: to produce a useful utilitarian product with a craftsman approach.

Construction

The leather used for this tool roll is a 4-5 ounce weight black oil-tanned Kodiak leather with a black suede inside. The inside has 12 tool pockets (6 in the back and 6 smaller in the front) as well as a larger pocket to the right, a snap closure pocket and a key fob. The stitching on the seams of the outside and pockets is a 2.5 pound boded polyester black thread. The other hardware include solid nickel rivets, snaps, and key fob and a natural horn button for the closure. Laid flat (unrolled) the bag’s dimensions are 22.5 inches long x 12.5 inches wide. When rolled, the dimensions are 6 inches wide x 12.5 inches long and .5-1 inch thick. The weight of the roll when empty is about 1 pound.

Function

Whether you keep it in the boot of your sports car for wrenches, use it for small chefs knives, brushes for an artist,or any other small tools for a trade or hobby, this tool roll is extremely versatile. In my case I have been using this roll for Oyster knives and other shellfish tools for my catering service. It is small and compact enough to put in a backpack or briefcase and is especially convenient at a job site where space sometimes lacks. Like a fine leather briefcase, this roll tucked under your arm suggests an organized artist or craftsman (if that exists) with a high value for his tool and trade.

A few things I would like to point out is that although there are the pockets in front, they are small and will more easily hold flat tools. Tools that are thick or rounded fit awkwardly and therefore the tool roll won’t roll evenly. Although a minor detail, I had hoped to be able to fit business cards in the snap closure pocket but unfortunately, the pocket was not long enough. The pocket is great for small items such as car fuses, matchbooks, coins for parking meters, or pencil erasers.

AESTHETIC

Just as it was designed for, this piece is a real homage to a retro tool roll for a sports car. The jet black oiled leather outer and inner suede is striking and gorgeous. Since the lining is suede it will easily pick up dust and bits of whatever is on your tools. Being black, however, I suspect that it won’t appear dirty if you are to carry your well loved and used tools around in it from day to day. Of course with me, my well loved tools are as clean as they are when I took them out and with a tool roll like this you will be sure to keep your tools as clean as you would like to keep your tool roll.

BestLeather Conclusion

For the price this is a real great value for a handmade piece of such high quality and materials from the USA. The design is simple yet highly useful and versatile. I am sure there are dozens of more applications I will have for this tool roll when I’m not bringing it with me to shuck some shellfish. Check it out -here-.

March 31, 2015December 19, 2017

DaLuca Straps Leather Horizontal Snap Wallet – $115

I remember one time awhile back my friends and I were just finishing up at a Chinese American buffet (which I’ll never go back to) and when it came time to divvy up the bill we all pulled out our wallets. If you threw them all on the table and shuffled them around, you’d be hard pressed to tell whose was whose. That might have been the starting point in my fascination with wallets and why I’m excited in reviewing the DaLuca Straps Leather Horizontal Snap Wallet.

CONSTRUCTION

When we looked at the DaLuca 1 Piece Nato Watch Strap we were introduced to the brand’s high standards of quality and appeal. It’s no different with the Leather Horizontal Snap Wallet. The resume is impressive. Made from Natural Horween Chromexcel leather and sewn using waxed linen thread and Prym 4gb brass snaps. The interior pockets are secured using brass rivets at either end as well. Measurements come in at a compact 4” long and 2.75” tall.

FUNCTION

The DaLuca Straps Leather Horizontal Snap Wallet is made with the minimalist in mind. There is one compartment that houses your cards and currency. You can fit around 4-5 cards depending on how much cash you have. Paper bills should be folded and put behind the cards. Since paper money is taller than cards the money sits higher and is easily retrievable. This wallet can fit just about anywhere. Front pocket, chest pocket…doesn’t matter. The dual snaps might seem excessive to some, but I prefer the security they offer in keeping the goods in place.

AESTHETIC

This wallet just exudes rugged style. From the abundance of brass and the truly buttery soft Chromexcel leather, this piece is simply a joy to handle. While waiting for an oil change I found myself subconsciously fidgeting with my wallet as opposed to lurking Facebook which speaks volumes. The DaLuca branding on back looks great and nothing reads better than “Handmade in the USA.”

CONCLUSION

Us men are simple creatures. We don’t often have the chance to express ourselves through accessories. The wallet is one of the few strongholds we have to showcase our style and ideals without being superfluous. If you value quality, good looks and supporting American ingenuity, look no further than the DaLuca Straps Leather Horizontal Snap Wallet.

March 27, 2015December 19, 2017

Jaqet Flip Wallet Review – $135

The basic model of the standard bifold wallet has remained relatively unchanged for some time. Its proven design leaves little room for innovation, creating an “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality. I enjoy bifolds as much as the next guy, but they often come at the cost of being somewhat bulky. If you need a wallet that’s lean, while still capable of carrying all your cash and cards, you might find the Jaqet Flip Wallet as a welcome breath of fresh air.

ABOUT JAQET

Based out of California, Jaqet has been producing fine leather goods since 2012. With the goal of offering sophisticated, tailored and all around snazzy wallets, Jaqet promises products that will last for years. In addition to wallets, Jaqet offers belts, iPhone cases, iPad portfolios and more. Everything is 100% handmade from domestically sourced full grain leather.

CONSTRUCTION

The wallet reviewed was the Flip in Redwood. All Jaqet’s wallets are hand dyed in house using Jeqet’s proprietary dyeing process. Waxed nylon thread is used for the saddle stitching that runs along the wallet. The metal hardware is a gold nickel finish. Edges are sealed and burnished which means you won’t have to worry about tattering. The wallet measures in at just over 4” long and 3” tall. The entire wallet is crafted from 1 piece of leather to maximize durability and the spring loaded money clip runs right down the center spine.

FUNCTION

The Flip is a brilliant marriage of two proven methods of carry, the bifold and money clip. When opened you have a slotted pocket on either side. I was able to fit 5 cards comfortably in each slot. Card retrieval can be tricky if you’re looking for one of the cards in the back as you’ll likely have to take the whole stack out. However, smartly placing your frequently used cards near the top will provide for more efficient access. The real draw of the Flip is the spring loaded money clip which can be disengaged to insert paper bills then securely retracted to keep it in place. The wallet is slim enough for front pocket carry and thanks to the wedged design getting it in and out is a dream.

AESTHETIC

The Flip’s fit and finish really make for a truly sleek piece of equipment. I found myself experiencing a sense of anticipation when taking it out to pay for things. I can almost liken it to James Bond making a last minute stop at Rite Aid for detergent. Jaqet’s signature dyeing process emphasises the leather’s grain while also giving it a very smooth feel. The interior Jaqet branding tops off the piece displaying it’s proud handmade in California heritage.

CONCLUSION

Made in America and built by hand from quality materials, it’s just the right recipe we’ve come to appreciate at BestLeather. While we see a lot of high quality wallets, it was refreshing to get my hands on something innovative but not over the top. Stylish without sacrificing function is the best way I can summarize the Jaqet Flip Wallet. I look forward to the next time I have to make a quick milk run or tip the waiter. Grab a Flip and you might just see why.

March 26, 2015December 19, 2017

Marlondo Leather Vertical iPad Satchel Review – $145

I have to admit, when the iPad first came out, I was skeptical that I could ever love a giant screen. I was even kind of skeptical until a few months ago when I was lucky enough to receive one as a gift. Of course, the fact that I could watch Netflix without getting out of bed won me over immediately, and now I take it with me everywhere (Don’t worry, I use it for important stuff too, like playing videos of crickets and watching my bearded dragon freak out). Of course, now that I’ve begun writing for Best Leather, I’ve embarked on a quest to find the nicest accessories for my fancy new iPad, and found that the Marlondo Leather Vertical iPad Satchel is an excellent choice.

ABOUT MARLONDO

Marlondo is a small, US-based company that uses full-grain American leather to create hand-crafted goods at an affordable price point. The Marlondo team loves to design and create durable and functional pieces using high quality leather and signature brass rivets.

THE LEATHER

Using full-grain, chrome tanned American cowhide, the Vertical iPad Satchel is sturdy and durable. The simple, classic brown is lined with dark colored pigskin. Over the last few weeks of use, the leather has darkened up considerably and gained a nice patina. Buff it up with some leather cleaner (check out some of our favorites here) and it maintains a beautiful color that only gets better with age.

CONSTRUCTION & AESTHETIC

The Vertical iPad Satchel is a long, thin bag just big enough to carry a standard iPad. Its dimensions are roughly 8.5” x 10.5” x 4”. There is a divider down the middle to keep your iPad protected from the rest of the bag’s contents. There’s also a small pouch built in to the back, perfect for storing things on the go.

The bag is built extremely sturdily. Almost every seam is double-stitched or reinforced. All the hardware is heavy brass, and each piece is held together with hefty brass rivets, which are also a nice design detail. There’s no part of this bag that feels cheap or flimsy. It will easily outlast the next few generations of iPads. Who knows, maybe you’ll be able to carry your holographic virtual reality machine in here in a few decades.

FUNCTION

This bag has quickly become one of my favorite items to carry every day. It’s thin and unobtrusive yet its simplicity makes a statement. The pouch perfectly fits my iPad 2 and keeps it from rattling around. Any iPad with a slim case would fit in as well. The other, slightly larger pocket isn’t huge, but it fits exactly what you need it to. I’ve found that this is a wonderful personal item for flying. It fits an iPad, a book, wallet, phone, headphones, and pack of gum perfectly, and you don’t feel like you’re going to knock over other passengers when you’re carrying it.

I am usually a fan of quick-access bags with fasteners that come undone easily. However, with this bag, I’m a huge fan of the heel bar buckle, because it keeps everything so secure. I don’t feel like my iPad is going to come flying out if I move too quickly. Plus, if you need a quick place to put things, there is a little pouch on the back so you don’t have to unbuckle the whole thing.

CONCLUSION

The Marlondo Leather Vertical iPad Satchel has quickly become a favorite, both for traveling and every day use. This is a design that I haven’t seen anywhere else, at least not in such a slim and classic style. Its high quality leather and durable construction are a steal at $145. This is a bag that will last you a lifetime and will look good doing it.

March 25, 2015December 19, 2017

Wolfgang Horween Leather Collar & Leash Review – $99.95 & $69.95

Appollo, Hachiko, Laika, Rin Tin Tin. Dogs have definitely earned the title, “Man’s Best Friend.” Throughout the centuries their courage, loyalty and faithfulness have inspired many. Even though our canine companions don’t judge us on the material things we get for them, it’s satisfying providing them with quality goods for all the joy they bring us. In the search for a collar worthy of the family dog, I came across the Wolfgang Horween Leather Collar and Leash.

ABOUT WOLFGANG USA

Wolfgang was brought about by an adventurous team of canines (and their owners) with backgrounds in production. Whether experiencing life through exploring, skating, fishing, relaxing or any other manner of living, they all shared a common trait. They did these things together, man and beast. With an aim to celebrate that relationship they offer American made collars and leashes as well as a collection of wallets, belts, t-shirts and hoodies. I think Wolfgang puts it best when they say, “We build our products locally, transport them minimally, and they’ll be replaced rarely.”

CONSTRUCTION

The products reviewed were the Wolfgang Horween Leather Collar and Leash. Wolfgang offers various sizes of collars and leashes to accommodate a wide range of breeds. Both are made with tan colored Horween full aniline Chromexcel leather. Hardware used is powder coated steel for excellent durability. Both the leash handle and interior collar are lined with supple glove leather for added comfort. All leather is joined with black stitching and the collar has steel rivets reinforcing the buckle and D ring. The Wolfgang logo hangs on a removable ring and the company’s branding adorns the collar and leash. The collar is about ¼” thick.

FUNCTION

The foul weather presented a great opportunity to test the collar and leash. Our Lab is a bit of a tugger but thanks to the wide collar she looked perfectly comfortable when I had to rein her in. It was below freezing and even without gloves the leash handle felt soft. The glove leather lining felt comfy, even when our Lab was pulling there was no harsh edges digging into my palm. The leash used was Wolfgang’s traffic lead, although they have leashes in 4 and 5 foot lengths. At 24” the traffic lead is good for keeping the dog close, especially useful in the city or high traffic areas. Thanks to the sturdy D Ring and metal hardware, at no time did I feel the leash would come detached from the collar and I found myself enjoying the walk that much more.

AESTHETIC

The Wolfgang Horween Leather Collar and Leash are both visually appealing. The deep rich tones of the Chromexcel leather really offer a great contrast on our Lab’s coat. The two tone combination of leathers emphasize the quality and build effort. I can see this setup just looking better and better with age. Looks are only half the experience though, it’s a pretty hefty collar and just picking up the leash feels like picking up a trusted tool. Don’t be surprised if your dog gets some extra attention from other canines, our Chesapeake Bay Retriever was jealously inspecting the new gear.

CONCLUSION

The assortment of dog collars and leashes available today can be overwhelming. With the vast amount of styles it can be daunting to pick one. The Wolfgang Horween Leather Collar and Leash stand out in their classic simplicity. With top notch materials and expert craftsmanship not often applied to pet goods, it’s almost a no brainer if you want the best for your four legged friend.

March 24, 2015December 19, 2017

Leather Scented Candles Review Part 2

In my latest installment of leather scented candle reviews, I bring three new players into the mix – Lord Wallington, A², and Glint. These three candlemakers each carry their own styles and scents for those looking to add some variety to their growing candle collections.

Lord Wallington “Cashmere and Leather” – $15

Lord Wallington is named after Wally, the rescue pup of Immanuel Ontiveros. The rest of Lord Wallington is the product of Immanuel and his wife’s creativity and hard work, which can be seen in everything from his bow tie designs to the hand-poured soy candles. Each candle is made from 100% soybean wax produced from US grown soybeans and poured in San Diego, CA. Tired of the standard vanilla scents used in men’s candles, Immanuel chose a blend of leather and cashmere scents to create a balanced yet masculine scent not easily found elsewhere. Cashmere & Leather comes in a 4 oz. jar.

Lord Wallington’s Cashmere & Leather soy candle arrives in a handsome amber jar perfect for any stylishly designed home. Twist off the screw cap and you find the air filling with a moderately sweet soft smell with a hint of musk. If cashmere has a smell, this must be it. The fragrance reminds me of sugar-coated leather if that makes any sense. Once the candle is lit, a warm glow fills the amber jar and there is a mild throw of fragrance reminiscent of fresh, clean leather on a cool day – like sitting in a leather car on a cold winter morning. This is a great candle for someone looking for a soft balanced candle that’s not overwhelming and works well for both men and women.

Glint Candles “Leather Tobacco + Sandalwood” – $17.99

Lacey Grevious of Glint Candles used to teach candle-making in North Lake Tahoe, California before applying for nursing school. At the last minute, she decided to follow her passion and began selling stylish and refillable eco-friendly candles. Each candle is a specific blend of soy and coconut waxes with a cotton wick specifically chosen for optimum clean burn. All materials are sourced from the US. Lacey and her partner, Chris, plan on traveling the country on a 1994 short bus turned mobile candle factory to showcase her candles across the country. Today’s particular candle is also called the “Shot In The Dark” Candle with a burn time of approximately 50 hours in an 8oz. jar.

The Leather Tobacco + Sandalwood Soy Candle has a hand pressed signature aluminum lid. The jar is glass covered with a strip of tissue paper with a camera print to serve as a reminder to stay in the present with what’s happening in the now. The use of the tissue paper gives the jar a beautiful ground glass texture and appearance while the solid white wax and cotton wick give the candle a clean, sharp look. The scent description on the website is pretty spot-on: there is a fantastically strong masculine fragrance of pepper, sweet tobacco, warm teak and patachouli even before you burn the candle. When burning, there is a good throw of the same smells but with the softer sweeter tobacco and teak toning down the peppery kick of the candle. Overall, a fantastic option for candle lovers looking to get a great scent without always having to light a candle.

A² Handcrafted Candles “Raw Hide” – $14.95

Anthony (A1) & Andrew (A2) began by hand-pouring candles at home for their day spa, Bodhi Massage & Wellness Center, in San Diego. Put these two together and you get A² Handcrafted Candles. Everything from the crops used to create the Non-GMO Soy Wax to the clean burning cotton wicks are 100% American. The fragrance oils used are also skin safe and non-toxic. The “Raw Hide” candle comes in an 8 oz tumbler offering over 40 hours of burn time.

Each candle comes packaged in a Kraft box. Inside, there is a lidless glass tumbler with a heavy sturdy base with a rustic A² sticker. The candle wax is a light brown color with a white wick. An initial whiff of the candle gives a very subtle hint of leather. It also reminds me of the smell in the air when ironing a crisp clean white cotton shirt in the morning. With the coming burn, there is a gentle throw with slight tones of freshly tanned leather with a deep inhale. This is a candle on the quieter side in scent and appearance and would be a great addition for someone who isn’t looking to change the smell of a room but rather to add a tone of masculinity to the air.

March 23, 2015December 19, 2017

Stock & Barrel Accessories Review – $28, $35, & $55

Most often, it’s the little things in life that create the most pleasure. Small items that get used everyday often seem to go unnoticed…they just blend into life. So, it’s refreshing some times to “take stock” of the things you use and see how well they represent you and interact with the ebb and flow of your daily routine.

About Stock & Barrel

This is the second review published for Parker & Whitney Lichfield and their Utah based company, Stock & Barrel. We encourage you to read about their great, No. 32 Minimalist Satchel. Stock & Barrel is very focused on what they call their “Carry Well” philosophy. And, staying true to that mantra, the three accessories we are reviewing here – the No. 38 Cord Keeper, the No. 20 Card Holder, and No. 24 Notebook Cover – all live up perfectly to that ideal.

Construction

All three of these pieces are made from the same type of leather as the No. 32 Minimalist Satchel. These pieces also feature the same heavy gauge, waxed thread. Each piece is hand cut and hand sewn. The No. 20 Card Holder is visibly the most different since it features a cross-stitched pattern on each side of the piece. All three pieces keep to the “keep it simple” concept of Stock & Barrel.

Function

It’s been fun to use all three of these well-made accessories. I’ve actually carried them pretty consistently since receiving them. I like all three pieces and have found them to be useful in my daily endeavors. Here’s a quick breakdown on each of them:

No. 38 Cord Keeper – an ingenious, helpful little piece. I hate having to always untangle my earbuds. I also find it irritating to have to fish around in my bag and attempt to pull them out in hopes of not dragging out other small items with them or causing the wiring to separate from pulling too hard. Once you get the positioning down right on how/where to start wrapping your headphones on the Cord Keeper, they quickly move from a “nice accessory” to a necessity. I’ll never leave home without them again. They’re an essential component to my EDC setup with any messenger bag I choose to carry from this point forward.

No. 20 Card Holder – this piece is extremely well-made and in my opinion, very visually appealing. I like the cross stitching and I like the simple closure. The thickness of the leather makes it somewhat difficult to use at first. And, it’s very limited in the number of cards it will hold. It just takes some time to get it stretched out and then it will accommodate enough cards and cash to make it a practical carry. Or, you can choose to use it as an awesome business card holder – which is how I’ve chosen to use it. It excels in this capacity too…easily holding enough business cards for most situations.

No. 24 Notebook Cover – sized perfectly for Field Notes on one side and a storage pocket on the other side, it’s a ruggedly simple piece. At first, it’s a little bulky given the design and thickness of the leather. I actually stuck it in-between two very old, heavy dictionaries I have in my office and let it sit in there for about a week. This compressed the whole piece nicely and since then, it’s been a great carry piece.

Aesthetic

As you can see from the included images, all three pieces are very pleasing to the eye. The color of the leather is wonderful and the white stitching creates a nice contrast. Each piece features Stock & Barrel’s stamp placed tastefully. All three pieces – whether carried together or individually have elicited comments and questions from others.

Conclusion

Whether you’re carrying one of Stock & Barrel’s great looking satchels or looking to outfit yourself with a clever, well-made, very useful set of accessories for your mobile office, you can’t go wrong in purchasing any or all of these three pieces from Stock & Barrel. All 3 are reasonably priced: No. 38 Cord Keeper at $28, No. 20 Card Holder at $35, and No. 24 Notebook Cover at $55. Best of all, they will remain useful and durable for many years to come.

March 19, 2015December 19, 2017

DropForge Leather Care – All Natural Leather Cleaner, Conditioner & Protectant

There’s a new Kickstarter in town and this one’s a little different than the others we’ve talked about in the past. This one isn’t for great leather products, but rather for products designed to make your leather products look better and last well.

Dropforge Leather Care is owned and operated by Bryan and his son Luke. Based in Clarkston, Washington this duo has been involved in the leather industry since 1993. As a result of their experiences, they have now formulated their own line of cleaners, conditioners, and protectants. One of the great things about all of their products is they are chemical free and all natural.

Learn more about their great product line, watch their video, and then back these guys and their company on Kickstarter. In exchange for backing the first leather care company to be featured on Kickstarter you’ll be rewarded with excellent, all natural leather care products.

Be on the lookout here too because we have some of their products heading in for testing. We’re looking forward to checking out how well their products work on a pair of Danner hunting boots that are in dire need of some TLC. Stay tuned!

March 16, 2015December 19, 2017

SANDLOT GOODS MEN’S BELT – HORWEEN RIO LATIGO – $90

My father has worn the same belt ever since I was a boy. Its a weathered tan color with a huge brass loop buckle. It’s beat up, gnarled and old. I love it. I remember the first belt I purchased in high school, it was “genuine” leather. It’s held up in the 10 years I’ve had it, but not gracefully. The leather is cracking and there’s a strange film peeling off the surface. I tossed it and resumed my search, where I came across a worthy contender, the Sandlot Goods Men’s Belt in Horween Rio Latigo.

ABOUT SANDLOT GOODS

Sandlot Goods was founded in 2013, but judging by their design and craftsmanship you’d think they’d been at it since 1913. With a passion for yesteryear, hot summer days spent playing baseball, and cool nights catching fireflies, Sandlot Goods aims to capture the spirit of simpler times in their products. Of course everything is proudly handmade in their Kansas City studio.

CONSTRUCTION

This belt is made with Horween’s Rio Latigo Leather. Katy Bird, Sandlot’s designer, explained to me just what is involved in producing this leather;

“Latigo is a full grain leather that is combination tanned and fat liquored. This means that the process uses both chrome and vegetable extracts, which is then conditioned with emulsified oils and waxes. What makes Latigo unique is the dying process. The leather is first drum-dyed and then aniline finished. The dyes in the aniline finishing process contains no pigment, allowing the natural of the character of the leather to be seen. The leather is then pasted and hand glazed. Pasting is the drying process where the leather is fixed to ceramic plates. This process smooths out the grain and provides very little stretch, making it a perfect leather for belts!”

The belt itself is 1.5″ wide and features solid brass hardware. The buckle and keeper are secured in place using large rivets. The Sandlot emblem is located at the end of the belt and Made in KC is branded behind the buckle. Edges are beveled and notches are set 1″ apart. Did I mention Sandlot also backs up all their hardware with a lifetime warranty?

FUNCTION

A belt is a belt is a belt, right? Sometimes. Sandlot Good’s Horween Rio Latigo belt will keep your pants up. But thanks to the 1.5” strap it will do more than keep your inner plumber from emerging. You could holster tool pouches and firearms from this and not worry about your belt caving in. So if you’re the Batman utility belt type, this belt will work for you. The only issue I had difficulty with was getting the end of the belt through the leather loop. But like a new baseball glove, you gotta work it a little to get it just right and I suspect that issue will resolve much the same way.

AESTHETICS

Versatility is important with belts. The Rio Latigo coloring goes great with a vast variety of pants and shorts. I normally don’t tuck my shirts in, but I just can’t let that solid brass and Horween leather go unnoticed. Keep in mind, Sandlot also offers this belt in Horween Black Chromexcel if you need something more formal. The rough edges offer a subtle contrast from the latigo finish that give the belt just the right amount of character.

CONCLUSION

Sandlot Goods Men’s Belt in Horween Rio Latigo is a bombproof belt that looks great from all angles. The combination of top quality leather, riveted construction and brass hardware mean you’ve got a belt that will simply last. Competitively priced at $90 dollars makes it a solid investment as well.

March 11, 2015December 19, 2017

Leather Scented Candle Reviews Part 1

Well, it took me a year but I finally did it. I finally burned through my very first candle – the behemoth 22oz Yankee Candle ‘First Down’. Now that this wonderful leather-scented man-candle is gone, I expected to just go get another one, but alas, the scent was retired so I was stuck with a dilemma. What candle should I get now? After all, scented candles don’t always have the same smell when burnt, and I don’t think you can just go into a candle store and start lighting all the candles to test them. Plus, I didn’t want to buy a bunch of candles that cost upwards of $25 to find ones I liked. This inspired me to review some of the best, handmade, leather scented candles I could find and share them in a multi-part review to help you find the perfect candle to fit your needs.

MAME #9 ‘AMBER, TEAKWOOD, LEATHER’ – $15

What do you get when you have two best friends looking to do something other than the same old happy hour? MAME Soy Candles. MAME (pronounced like fame) specializes in 100% soy wax candles using only materials sourced in the USA and hand poured in Arizona. The #9 candle is an upgraded version of a previously all-leather scented candle. The addition of amber and teakwood was done to make this candle smell like a “good looking man.” The 5.5 ounce container holds enough to burn for approximately 30-40 hours.

The candle jar is clear glass with a white screw on cap. The candle itself is an even milky white contrasted against the black print of the designer labels. Even without a burn, this candle has a strong scent of warm manly cologne. A quick sniff will give more mellow cinnamon and amber tones but a deeper inhale brings out the hint of leather. Once the actual burn takes place, there is an excellent throw of scent and a surprising fresher kick of amber settles in. This cologne fragrance turns more into a cool aftershave, with just a hint of leather making the MAME #9 a great candle for men and women, burn or no burn.

GORILLA CANDLES’ ‘WORK BOOTS’ – $10

Jason Stump from Gorilla Candles is the inventor of a number of scented man candles inspired from his work as a landscaper in college. They are named appropriately from “Work Boots” and “Fresh Cut Grass” to “Dirt” and “Rain Day.” Gorilla Candles became a reality when his grandmother, while waking up from anesthesia, thought his grandfather was a gorilla sitting in the corner of her hospital room. After the first fruit-scented candle, “Gorilla Farts,” was released (pun-intended), Jason has produced a wide variety of candles with “Work Boots” filling the need for a leather-scented candle. Each candle comes in an 8oz. ½ pint paint can which provides a 40hr burn. These soy candles are each hand made, designed, and poured using locally supplied wax and oils in a family garage.

The “Work Boots” candle holder is a wonderfully creative paint can design with a clearly masculine appeal that even the burliest of men won’t be ashamed to be caught with. The wax inside is the same yellow color as the label. When the lid is opened with the included can opener, a subtle scent of a thick polished boot or horse saddle can be sniffed out. With a good burn, there is a subtle throw of saddle leather in the air. While not concentrated enough to fill up a large room, the smell is just enough to make you think of opening a brand new leather shoebox without giving you a headache. Overall, the Gorilla Candles “Work Boots” makes a great gift for any guy who enjoys a scented candle but wants something tougher to put on the table.

WITCH CITY WICKS ‘BLACK LEATHER’ – $19

Liz Frazier is an accidental candle maker. Attempting to find a hobby away from her computer, she has now become a devoted expert, hand pouring every single scented soy candle. The first candles were made in Salem, MA a.k.a. “Witch City” and the name Witch City Wicks naturally followed. These all natural candles are made from phthalate-free fine fragrance oils and all-cotton wicks sourced in the USA. Burn times range from 55-65 hours for this 7 oz candle.

A handsome gift box contains each lidded milky white candle in an actual rocks glass so that you can enjoy your scotch after enjoying your candle. The clean black and white label gives it a neutral sophisticated look. Upon opening the box, there is an immediate hint of leather oils as if you laid your head down on a leather pillow. The burn creates a surprisingly strong flame followed by a decent throw of leather motorcycle jacket and a whisper of new car. Half Black Leather candle + Half scotch glass = All good.

March 10, 2015December 19, 2017

Intrepid Bag Company Expanding Its Product Line with Kickstarter

Back in June 2014, we introduced our awesome readers to Intrepid Bag Company with a review of its Journeyman Messenger – a unique, attractive, minimalist take on traditional messenger bags.

Now Intrepid Bag Company has teamed up with the folks at Pad & Quill to introduce a new line of products. In keeping with their “go anywhere’ mindset, this new line of bags is called the Explorer line and features five great looking new products:

The Wayfarer Messenger – which appears to be a more robust Journeyman Messenger.
The Zinnia Convertible – a great take on a vertical-oriented messenger bag with a unique strap setup allowing it to also quickly and easily be carried backpack style.
The Tech Tool Roll – looks like a great organizer roll to keep all of the cords and wires for our wireless technology untangled and under control.
The Camera Strap – looks like a very comfortable, functional take on the traditional camera strap featuring a nice, wide padded strap and a great mounting system.
The Slim Wallet – should be attractive to those who prefer a minimalist approach to wallet carry (should be able to carry it in a front or back pocket with ease).

Stephen & Tiffani, founders of Intrepid Bag Co, have turned to Kickstarter again to launch their Explorer product line. The designs appear to be very solid and given the nature of the materials used they will last for many, many years to come. Take a few minutes, check out their great looking Kickstarter and back their efforts. You’ll be rewarded with a great product!

March 10, 2015December 19, 2017

Leather Head Sports Burgundy Chromexcel 12lb Medicine Ball – $350

We see a lot of great products here at BestLeather. We’re always on the hunt for quality leather goods to showcase, and every once in a awhile we get the opportunity to review something that really stands out. The Leather Head Sports Burgundy Chromexcel 12lb Medicine Ball is one of those products. Read on and find out why.

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ABOUT LEATHER HEAD SPORTS

Leather Head Sports was founded by Paul Cunningham, the former Photo Editor for Major League Baseball. After leaving the MLB he gained valuable experience as the senior baseball glove craftsman at a small glove importer. Wanting to break away from creative confines, he founded Leather Head Sports whose signature Lemon Ball Baseballs and Leather Head Footballs have gained a lot of popularity. Heck, one of his footballs can be seen being carried by Bradley Cooper’s character in Silver Linings Playbook! And with everything being handmade in their New Jersey workshop, what’s not to like?

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CONSTRUCTION

Leather Head Sports offers medicine balls in several different sizes and color options. They even offer custom weight ranges if you want a graduated set. The model we’re reviewing is the Burgundy Chromexcel 12lb model. As the name implies, it’s constructed of very thick 5oz Horween Chromexcel full grain leather. It’s weighty interior is actually full of shredded leather scraps generated from all the goods they manufacture. The 7 long panels and 2 circular panels are sewn with polyester thread and lock stitched twice for extra strength. Leather Head states the weights can vary slightly, this ball weighed 11lbs 9oz, still very hefty!

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FUNCTION

Once you’ve acclimated to the sheer presence of this piece, you’ll see that it is a medicine ball and meant for exercise. While it looks great on a bookshelf next to a few trophies, its true home is in your hands doing some ab work. Medicine balls might seem like a relic of the past, meant for boxers of a bygone era as a tool to toughen up the core. They still do however offer great resistance options for crunches, lunges, and squats. After a workout, this ball doesn’t stop there. I found it makes an excellent armrest on the couch while watching TV. Even my 5 month old daughter was intrigued by this strange stuffed animal! Handling the ball is truly a sensory experience. The weight in your hands, the smell of the leather and the shade of deep burgundy all add to the fun of handling the ball.

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AESTHETIC

I could extol on the beauty of this piece all day long. All of Leather Head Sport’s products have that wonderful nostalgic vibe and the medicine ball delivers in every capacity. It simply looks amazing from every angle. You can see no corners were cut (Well I’m sure plenty of corners were cut to make it, I was speaking figuratively) in its fabrication. The rawhide lace is tight and the cursive Leather Head branding harkens back to an era of American made prowess seldom experienced from consumer goods. Much like a Swingline 333 or a Braun ET66, the Leather Head 12lb Medicine Ball not only performs well, it does so with brilliant style.

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CONCLUSION

At $350 dollars this might seem like an extravagance for most. However, imagine a man in a workshop. He’s leaning over a table cutting leather, hunched on a stool sewing the seams, expertly lacing everything together. Sometimes you find a product that is worth the splurge, especially when you consider what went into it and the fun you’ll have owning it. Leather Head Sports Burgundy Chromexcel 12lb Medicine Ball is a perfect example of that.

March 9, 2015December 19, 2017

The Goods LA – The Loop & The Crew Review – $75

My MacBook Pro has been my trusty sidekick for over four years now. It comes with me to school, to work, to the coffee shop, on vacation – pretty much everywhere. I love my MacBook. The cord, not so much. It gets wrapped up in my books and forces me to take everything out of my bag just to untangle everything. It’s a major first-world problem, but it does get annoying to have to wrangle a cord five times a day. Thankfully, The Goods felt my pain and sent me a few products to try and ease my suffering.

The Goods is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle brand that creates essentials for the modern man. Their product line is full of simple, sophisticated products for stylish people on the go. Founded in 2013, The Goods keeps things minimalist, selling only four products on their website, all of which will be reviewed here on Best Leather. Today I’ll be reviewing The Loop, a Macbook cord keeper, and The Crew, an earbud holder.

THE LEATHER & CONSTRUCTION

The Loop is made from 7 oz veg-tanned cowhide, dyed a rich black. The Crew is 5 oz. cowhide. Both are very durable and have withstood daily use with no signs of wear. The pouch on the Loop is single-stitched and fits the MacBook adapter nice and snug. Both pieces use sturdy stainless steel snaps to keep your cords fastened.

FUNCTION

I am generally skeptical of organizational gadgets. Most of the time they take up more time than they save and end up becoming a nuisance. So I decided to take The Loop and The Crew down the street to my local bakery for a test run. My interest was instantly piqued by the sleek packaging and the fact that everything was all black.

There is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to using The Loop. The Goods put together some instructional images on their website as a guide. First, you wrap up the small part of the cord around the plastic hooks attached to the adapter, and then you slide this part into the square pouch. Then you wrap the rest of the cord up and fasten it into place with the buttons on the strap. It might sound complicated, but once you get the hang of it, it takes no time at all.

The Crew is fairly self-explanatory, but you can also check out some instructional images on their website too. You wrap the earbuds around the center part of The Crew and then close it up with the two snaps. I like this design better than other headphone holders because the cord isn’t exposed as much and there’s really no way for it to come undone.

CONCLUSION

The Crew and The Loop won me over with their unique design and functionality. They definitely don’t fall into the cheesy organizer category. I’ve used them every single day since I received them. They are sleek little accessories that save you both the time and frustration of untangling cords, and save space in your bag because they wrap everything up so compactly. The Loop is only $60, The Crew is $25, and you can get them both for $75, aptly named The Combo. If you’re a MacBook user, these pieces are a must-have accessory. It’s a great price, unique construction, and will last longer than your Macbook does.

March 6, 2015December 19, 2017

Stock & Barrel No. 32 Minimalist Satchel Review – $345

It seems that almost everything these days is jammed packed with multiple features. If a widget doesn’t perform umpteen different functions, it just isn’t good enough. Personally, I find that tiresome at times. So, it’s really refreshing to find a product that keeps it simple and does a job well. And, if it looks good while doing it…well, that’s icing on the cake.

About Stock & Barrel

Stock & Barrel is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Parker and Whitney Lichfield. With all of their products handmade in Ogden, Utah this duo hopes to revitalize a sense of adventure with each of the products they create. They work hard to reinforce their own “Carry Well” mantra. According to Whitney, “The idea of carry well is to surround yourself with things and people that are important to you. We believe that carrying quality products enables a more quality life.” And, from what we can tell, they’re doing a great job of providing those quality carry products.

Construction

The Stock & Barrel No. 32 Minimalist Satchel is a thing of beauty. The leather is sourced within the United States and is fully struck through (dye permeates through the entire hide). In speaking with Whitney about Stock & Barrel’s construction process, she had this to say, “We roll out the hide, trace the pattern, cut out the pattern, rivet, punch, etc., and then hand-stitch everything. At this time we don’t have any heavy machinery, we love the look of the hand-stitched, rugged, simple look. We aren’t opposed to machinery though and if demand continues to grow like it is machinery will be our next step!”

The leather is thick and has a nice pull up affect to it. It should develop an awesome patina with time and usage. Along with the great leather and exposed hand stitched seams, they utilize brushed stainless steel hardware, which I appreciate. It’s not flashy and allows you to focus attention on the bag as a whole.

Function

In keeping with its minimalist name, the satchel has just one compartment. It will easily hold a 15” laptop, your iPad, charging cords, and various accessories with ease. Its 15.5″ x 10.5″x 3″ footprint is deceptive…it will hold a lot! One thing that I really appreciate is the “rain flaps” it has on the sides. Living in an area where it rains and snows frequently, it’s important to have a satchel that keeps your precious, expensive electronics dry. And the Stock & Barrel No. 32 Minimalist Satchel definitely does that thanks to this nice design feature.

The main flap uses a tuck-in closure to stay shut. It’s simple and is just another feature that adheres to the minimalist approach. No zippers, straps, buckles…just leather – really nice leather.

The shoulder strap is the only component of the bag that requires the use of hardware. It attaches to the satchel with D rings and lobster clasps. The strap is adjustable and wide enough that you don’t need a shoulder strap (keep it simple…remember?).

Aesthetic

The thick, exposed thread and brushed stainless steel hardware when combined with the heavy leather create a visual feast for the eyes. With no pockets or hardware in the way, you’re immediately drawn to just the leather, which looks fantastic. The simplicity of the design definitely catches people’s attention. In carrying this bag on a few trips to a couple of my favorite coffeehouses and to church, it always elicited questions and comments. The vintage brown color is great too. It’s not as light as a natural vegetable tan finish, but it’s not a dark brown color either. “Vintage” is definitely an accurate descriptor because the leather appears to be old…”pre-patina’d” so to speak. But, what’s great is that you’ll definitely be able to develop your own unique patina with time and use on this satchel.

Conclusion

The Lichfield’s are definitely creating high quality leather carry goods. By using top quality leather, handmade attention to detail, and minimalist design features the No. 32 Minimalist Satchel is a stellar choice. At $345, it is reasonably priced – especially considering the fact that it will allow you to “carry well” for many, many years and then you can give the bag to one of your kids or grandkids so they can continue to use it.

*Be looking for another review coming soon for some of Stock & Barrels accessories (yes, the same ones seen in some of these pictures).

March 5, 2015December 19, 2017

Orox Leather Co. Proletariat Hat Review – $70.00

From the makers of the Medicus Dopp and iPad Sleeve 2 & Air comes the one-of-a-kind Proletariat Hat by Orox Leather Co. In a world (and a leather review blog) of leather bags, wallets, belts, and shoes, a casual leather hat is not the easiest thing to find but a quality leather hat is practically nonexistent. Luckily for us, Orox Leather Co. has put together a hat using a little bit of history, a good amount of hard handwork, and a whole lot of quality materials.

CONSTRUCTION

All Orox goods are handmade in Portland Oregon. Like the iPad Sleeve and Medicus Dopp, the leather found on the brim and double ring adjustment strap on the back is the classic oil tanned full grain leather from Minnesota. The front strap is full grain English Bridle leather from Pennsylvania dyed to the same color as the brim. The front strap has the Orox debossed logos subtlety pressed on the sides and both front and adjustment straps are held into place by genuine copper rivets. The shell of the hat is waterproof waxed canvas from New Jersey.

FUNCTION

The term “proletariat” is thought to have been first been used in the Roman times during their census taking to describe the working or labor class of citizens. Appropriately, this hat has a utilitarian and versatile design. The waterproof canvas protects in the rain and doubles as an emergency water bowl for your dog according to the website. I tested this second part out with my friend’s dog. I couldn’t get the dog to drink, but the hat did hold water. The most superficial layer of the canvas did get wet but it clearly did not soak through. Just don’t think about putting the hat immediately back on if you were to use it as a water bowl. The relatively flat shape of the top allows you to flip the hat on a table to also act as a valet for holding your keys, wallet, and phone when you’ve gotten home after a long day. This hat is also one size “fits most” for heads measuring 22-24’’ in circumference by adjusting the leather strip in the back.

AESTHETIC

I recently did a quick Google image and eBay search for “leather” + “hat.” I found that you can easily get a Stetson cowboy hat, an urban streetwear baseball cap, or a biker hat in leather. But unless I want to look like I’m from Texas, in a music video, riding a motorcycle, or into some weird S&M stuff, there’s no good option out there. Fortunately this proletariat hat works both functionally and aesthetically. It looks like a mix of a cadet cap, Stetson cap, and a newsy cap so it definitely works with a casual everyday outfit and to be honest, it would also work in Texas, in a music video, on a motorcycle, and… well you get the picture. It also looks great on men (selfie texted and approved) and women (evidence below). The hat also comes in Black/Black, Brown/Brown, and Gray/Black.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

The Orox Leather Co. Proletariat Hat is fairly priced at $70. Comparatively, leather Stetson’s range run in the hundreds and waxed canvas hats usually start around $40-$50. If you love hats, waxed canvas, or leather, this is a great collectible yet wearable item.

March 5, 2015May 9, 2020

Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Cap-Toe Lace Up Oxfords Review – $385

Allen Edmonds is largely a household name. This has long been the case, as the name gained fame after World War II, during which it had produced shoes for the military. This established a base of lifelong followers of the company, and started it on the path to inextricably intertwine itself with American culture. Since then Allen Edmonds has been worn by presidents, prime ministers, and countless celebrities; but the real testament to the company is that their expertly crafted shoes stand up to the hype. We recently got a hold of the Park Avenue Cap-Toe Oxfords, the same style as has been worn by four American presidents on their inauguration days (Reagan, H.W. Bush, Clinton, and G.W. Bush).

FUNCTION

The first thing you notice about a pair of Allen Edmonds is how durable they feel. The upper on these shoes is incredibly sturdy for calf skin, though they never seem too heavy. The sole is thick and un-padded solid leather which makes them a bit uncomfortable until they break-in. This can take anywhere from a day or two to a week of wear, being comfortable enough once they have taken to your feet. For a thick formal shoe they are reasonably easy to wear and take care of. I recommend using shoe trees and the appropriate shoe bags for the storage of a shoe of this value and quality. You can greatly extend the lifespan of any pair of shoes by taking proper care of them, and even a quality behemoth like Allen Edmonds need a little TLC.

CONSTRUCTION

From simply picking up a pair of Park Avenues you would know that they’re sturdy. Each shoe is weighty and somewhat inflexible because of the construction. Heavily reinforced from toe to heel with a hefty solid-leather sole, the durability of the shoe is unquestionable. Double stitching secures the cap-toe section, with triple stitching in the throat line. The rest is sporadically single or double stitched to ensure that every inch lasts just as long as the wearer does. If resoled every decade or so, this pair of shoes could comfortably last you a lifetime.

AESTHETIC

Undoubtedly a good looking pair of shoes, the moderate sole and toe width help to keep the contemporary styling modern and classic. The leather is both thick and fragrant, arriving well polished and ready for a special event or just another day at the office. Even after having been worn in the rain several times, this pair has retained much or its factory shine. Nearly perfect calfskin leather comprising the exterior makes the shoes consistently smooth and attractive from every angle. A great choice for special events or formal business settings, the Park Avenue Cap-Toe Oxford shines as an understated yet classy footwear option.

CONCLUSION

Most fine dress shoes cost anywhere from just over a hundred dollars to the multiple thousands range, placing Allen Edmonds in the middle of luxury and budget shoe brands. Still, to many $385 is pricey for a single pair of shoes. This is why the durability and longevity of a pair of Allen Edmonds comes in handy, because where one might need to purchase a new pair of cheap dress shoes every two or three years, this single pair of shoes could last you the rest of your life. With style, construction, and comfort all taken into account, the Park Avenue Cap-toe Oxfords are worth the heftiness of its price tag.

March 3, 2015December 19, 2017

Daluca Straps 1 Piece NATO Watch Strap Review – $135

Watch straps get little credit. Most of the focus is on the time piece itself, which is understandable. Although, for an accessory most use everyday, overlooking the strap can compromise your enjoyment of the watch. Most stock bands are boring, cheaply made and uncomfortable. It’s like cruising in your Bugatti on Firestone 500s. Investing in a quality strap will only add to your watch wearing enjoyment. That’s where the 1 Piece Nato Watch Strap from DaLuca Straps comes into play.

ABOUT DaLuca Straps

DaLuca straps has been in business since 2009. Based out of San Diego, the brand was born with the mission to provide owners of high end timepieces with quality alternatives to the otherwise stagnant selection on the market. They boast an impressive selection of straps, all handmade and individually named. They also work with discerning customers by offering to tailor the length/width of the strap and options to change the stitching color or buckle finish. DaLuca Straps also carries a wide assortment of other leather goods including belts, wallets and travel cases.

CONSTRUCTION

The band received was the 1 Piece Nato in Brown Chromexcel. The strap is thin and this is a requirement for all NATOs in order to fit between the spring bars and under the case. There are 9 notches along the band that will cover just about every wrist size. Stainless steel hardware is used for the buckle and the 4 ply waxed linen thread stitching is very tidy. The brown Chromexcel offers great contrasts and exhibits that signature pull up wonderfully. The leather is also surprisingly elastic, being able to stretch and conform to my wrist. The simple straightforward fabrication reassures the end user that the strap will last and last.

FUNCTION

NATO straps have British military origins. The 1 piece strap might confuse first time buyers but it actually couldn’t be more simple to install. Just feed the notched end through the spring bar and under the case and back up through the bottom spring bar. No tools needed. After wearing this watch I realized in the first 5 minutes this was simply the most comfortable strap I’ve ever wore. The buttery soft Chromexcel leather is very supple with zero break in needed. Thanks to the amount of notches I was able to find the perfect fit and the watch felt very secure on my wrist with little to no slip.

AESTHETIC

The 1 Piece Nato is a very simple design that blends in perfectly with just about any analog watch imaginable. This strap could pair with a Timex Weekender just as well as it could with a Rolex Explorer. The white thread provides just the right amount of contrast to give character and style to the strap without being too loud. The strap does not have a floating keeper so the excess band is tucked into the metal loops much like a D-Ring belt, while not very streamlined this method keeps the “tail” of the watch in place.

CONCLUSION

The DaLuca Straps 1 Piece NATO Watch Strap is a solid choice for the first time strap buyer. You can’t go wrong with NATO simplicity and luxurious Chromexcel leather. Thanks to the easy installation you can swap this strap to other watches depending on the occasion or your mood. Priced at $135 also makes it more affordable than most handmade straps. If you want to compliment your timepiece with a comfortable, timeless design, this strap is certainly worth your consideration.

March 2, 2015December 19, 2017

Marlondo Leather Classic Bifold Wallet Review – $34

The Marlondo Leather Classic Bifold Wallet impressed me the moment I tore open the package. The texture in my hands reminded me of my dad’s old baseball mitt. The leather itself smelled like my grandpa’s office. And the tiny imperfections and wear made it seem like an heirloom from an Arizona Ranger.

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About Marlondo Leather

Marlondo Leather is a small U.S. company—their leather all comes from America too. Since they care about simplicity, they keep logos and branding on their products to a minimum, which I love. Everything they sell is hand-crafted and designed for durability—tough enough to follow you on any adventure you’re daring enough to pursue.

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Construction

This classic wallet is made of heavy, 100% full-grain leather. Marlondo brags that it’s “built like a tank and will last forever.” I can’t yet confirm it’ll last forever, but having used it for some time I don’t doubt their claim. It really is built like a tank—rugged, durable—you name it. It’s also sewn with marine-grade thread, meaning it’s hearty enough to make voyages through salt and seawater. I’m willing to bet it’ll take as much punishment as you can and then some.

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Function

It has 4 card sleeves and a large pouch along the back for bills, checks, and receipts. At first, the card sleeves were tight when fitting more than one card, but, like a good baseball mitt, they loosened up once I started to break it in. I now fit 11 cards in the wallet. I wouldn’t expect to push it much further than that though, so, if you have more, this might be the perfect time to weed out the ones you never use.

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At 4.5″ x 3.6″, its dimensions are rather large—and this may be your main consideration before buying. The full-grain leather is solid, which is good for durability, but at the wallet’s thickest point, you have 8 layers of leather stacked on top of each other plus the thickness of your cards and cash. For many, its large size is a bonus. But for some jeans, it may barely fit into the back pocket. If the large size is a downside and you’re looking for something a little sleeker, I recommend you look at Marlondo’s Business Card/Credit Card Wallet, which has the same durability and classic look but with a lighter form factor (but the tradeoff is that it won’t fit as much inside).

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Aesthetic

The leather arrived with a few dings and scratches that immediately gave it style. Due to the distinct fiber structures in individual hides, each wallet will be different and unique. As I used mine, it continued to look better and better. It really is a thing of beauty—the sort of classic your grandpa would have used, and one you’re proud of every time you pull it out. Yes, it’s that cool.

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Also, you can get it in two colors. The photos here show the color tobacco. You can also get it in dark brown, which looks just as amazing (but darker).

BestLeather Conclusion

I definitely recommend the Marlondo Leather Classic Bifold Wallet. It really is a classic. And at $34, it’s a steal. Not only is it an item that will last a lifetime, it will last for generations. I can already see the park-bench scene where you’re gifting it to your great-grandson.

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February 25, 2015December 19, 2017

Colonel Littleton No. 5 Cinch Belt Review – $120

We’re really pleased to be working with Colonel Littleton. This is the third review we’ve done for them recently and we’re looking forward to bringing you several more reviews of their creative, well made designs. Along with the awesomely made No. 40 Campaign Bag and the No. 18 Tablet Portfolio, we now have the privilege of reviewing one of their unique belts, the No. 5 Cinch Belt.

About Colonel Littleton

As with all of the Colonel’s other items, the No. 5 Cinch Belt is made entirely in their workshop, which is located in Lynnville, TN, population 327. Colonel Littleton has been designing and creating high quality leather goods since 1987.

If you’re ever in the Nashville, TN area it’s well worth the 1-hour trip to stop in at the Colonel Littleton store and peruse all of the fantastic items they make and sell there. And who knows, you may bump into the Colonel himself while you’re there!

Construction

In a departure from the leather used on all of Colonel Littleton’s bags, the No. 5 Cinch Belt uses bridle leather from a tannery in Santa Croce, Italy. It is vegetable tanned the traditional, old-fashioned way by processes developed over the centuries. Colonel Littleton uses the heart of these hides to make belts, coasters, desk pads, and a few other products.

The No. 5 Cinch Belt is available with solid brass hardware and 1 3/8″ wide belt strap, which requires a 2″ belt loop to accommodate buckle hardware. Or you can choose your belt to use stainless steel hardware and 1 3/16″ wide belt strap, which requires a 1 5/8″belt loop to accommodate buckle hardware.

The No. 5 Cinch belt is available in two attractive leather options – dark brown or black. The black version also has an attractive stitched edge on it. It comes in three sizes: Small – fits sizes 26 – 32, Large – fits sizes 34 – 42, and X-Large – fits sizes 42 – 50.

There are two pieces of hardware on this belt that combine to create its uniqueness. First the two pronged, “claw” style hardware used to adjust the length of the belt and the level style buckle.

Function

I was a little skeptical at first that the cinch style buckle would perform well. For some reason, I kept thinking that it would not remain closed securely and would pop open constantly. My fears were quickly assuaged and I’ve quickly learned that this lever styled closure is very secure and works perfectly. But, be warned…people will ask about it frequently. It’s unique and not something you see very often. So, be prepared for a little attention when you wear it.

The belt is also easily adjusted thanks to the double “claw” adjustment. Again, I was wary of the claw sticking through the leather and pushing into my side. But, it hasn’t happened yet after 7 weeks and wear and at this point, I think it will never happen. The belt performs perfectly and does its job faithfully day after day, which is just what it’s designed to do.

Aesthetic

In addition to performing its expected role of keeping your trousers in place, it also looks splendid. I received the dark brown version of this belt with brass hardware. Simply put, when it’s drawn through the belt loops of my favorite jeans or khakis, it looks fantastic. The combination of the deep, rich brown, brass, and design of the belt combine to create a feeling of rugged luxury. As described on their website, it “could have easily been worn by the U. S. Cavalry or by Teddy Roosevelt on his trek through Africa.”

Conclusion

The Colonel Littleton No. 5 Cinch Belt is a great alternative to the traditional men’s casual belt. It mixed a little bit of unique, a little bit of history, and a lot “cool” to combine into a standout belt that will serve you well through the daily rigors of life. Best of all, it will age well and develop a patina unique to the way you wear it and use it. It’s fairly priced at $120 since it’s made with very high quality leather, beautiful hardware, and it’s made in the USA. Get one for yourself and create some adventure of your own with it.

February 24, 2015December 19, 2017

Basader Handmade Classic Messenger Bag with Gusset Review – $400

Since BestLeather.org began reviewing products a few years ago, we have watched Basader grow from an Etsy store into one of the mainstays of the leather goods market. Based in Brooklyn, founders Philip and Elin Antonelli come from a fashion background, which is evident in their stylish products. All of their products are dyed, cut, and assembled by hand in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. In 2013, we reviewed their Messer Leather Briefcase, and posted an interview with Philip. Since then, they’ve sold quite a few messenger bags to customers who have broken them in and given them feedback. Thus was born the Handmade Classic Messenger Bag with Gusset, a customizable combination of everyone’s favorite Basader features.

THE LEATHER

Crafted from 7 oz bridle leather, the Classic Messenger Bag is durable yet soft. It hasn’t lost its shape after daily usage, nor will it ever. The inside of the bag is smooth and supple, and the divider is made with raw leather. This medium brown color option is a rich reddish-brown, with a subtle luster that looks very sophisticated. The bag comes in three different color options: medium brown, dark brown, and black. Even the edge color is customizable in four colors: dark brown, medium brown, black, and natural. To get a better feel for the color options, check out the color guide on the Basader blog.

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION

The construction of the Handmade Classic Messenger Bag is immaculate, with clean double-stitching and sturdy brass hardware to hold it together. The bag has minimal seams on the front and back, giving it a very sleek, understated look. The standout feature on this bag is the gusset. A gusset is a reinforced seam that provides structural strength or reinforcement. In this case, it does both, while simultaneously adding a divider that runs through the middle of the bag and provides two pockets and pen holders. The thick divider is a great feature for laptop users to keep their computer safe and scratch-free. This 16-inch, 4.5-pound bag keeps a 15″ laptop nice and snug without killing your shoulders. The size is functional for every day use without being clunky or in the way.

The top handle has an extra leather covering for additional comfort. The removable shoulder strap is attached with D-rings and lobster-style clasps. Of course, the metal hardware is customizable as well, in three finishes: brass, nickel-plated brass, and nickel-plated matte.

There is the option to add an adjustable backpack strap, which attaches to three O-rings that are added onto the back of the bag if you select this option. You also have a choice when it comes to the two front buckles. You can stick with the classic buckle or upgrade to faux buckles with hidden tuck locks for quick and easy access, a feature that is great for the less dextrous.

CONCLUSION

The Handmade Classic Messenger Bag with Gusset ranges from $400-450, depending on what features you choose. It’s $20 to size up from 14.5″ to 16″, $20 to add a backpack strap (and necessary hardware), and $10 to upgrade to the hidden tuck locks on the front buckles. This is a very, very nice bag that will last you a lifetime due to its high quality materials and superior construction. It’s worth every penny; possibly more. It’s American-made from high-quality leather and handmade exactly to your specifications. The simple and timeless style will never go out of fashion, and the leather will get even more beautiful the longer you carry it. What more can you ask for?