2CentsLeatherShop Custom Leather Camera Strap Review – $46.90

The stock strap on my trusty Nikon was becoming a pain. The nylon edges were starting to fray, causing a very uncomfortable rash on the back of my neck. The adjustable buckles were nearly impossible to adjust to on the fly as well. Looking for a better option to carry my camera, I tried out the 2centsleathershop custom leather camera strap with great results.

ABOUT 2CENTSLEATHERSHOP

2centsleathershop is an Etsy store operated by Marijana Cuzela and her partner. Located in the heart of Europe, Marijana started the brand after the collapse of the leather industry in Slovenia. Taking the skills learned, 2centsleathershop is passionate about crafting high quality handmade leather goods ranging from wallets to iPad portfolios. 2centsleathershop is also willing to work with customers to further personalize the products offered.

CONSTRUCTION

2centsleathershop offers camera straps with several different unique patterns and colors. The strap reviewed was in brown. The strap is crafted from premium vegetable tanned leather which naturally darkens over time to produce even richer hues. Three strips of leather are used to form the main body. Two pieces form the adjustable sides that attach to the camera and are riveted to the strap that goes around the neck. Small keyrings are placed on to the camera’s strap mounts that work in conjunction with the trigger snaps to easily remove the straps from the camera. All hardware is solid brass and the edges are coated and polished. The straps can be raised or lowered by a little over 3 inches.

FUNCTION

My main gripe about my previous strap was that adjusting the length was a real chore. On the 2cents strap you simply pull the floating keeper up out of the way, pull the strap from the brass notch and place it where you need it. No having to coax a stubborn nylon strap loose here! I was able to adjust the strap longer for across the shoulder carry to shorter for over my abdomen in less than 15 seconds.

The soft leather is very comfortable on my neck and the weight is evenly dispersed over the wide strip across the neck. I wasn’t nervous at all with the camera hanging, the brass hardware inspires confidence that your gear will stay put. The quick release snaps are a godsend for when you need to remove the strap from your camera.

The strap also converts to a wrist strap for extra support when snapping pictures. 2centsleathershop demonstrates this well in their video.

AESTHETIC

This leather strap looks great and adds much needed character to most typical black SLR cameras. I also really appreciate the fact that while stylish, it’s also very low key. When traveling and snapping photos, I don’t feel comfortable with a large name brand printed on the strap around my neck signaling to everyone I have an expensive camera on my person. 2centsleather also offers personal initials, up to 3 characters at no additional cost. We got the BestLeather.org initials (BLO) and it really adds to the appreciation of the piece. The brass hardware accents the leather handsomely as well.

CONCLUSION

If you’re looking for a camera strap that is easily adjustable while also being comfortable and of course, leather, then you should check out 2centsleathershop Custom Leather Camera Strap on Etsy. Priced affordably at under $50 dollars and the free option of monogramming make it an appealing choice.

April 13, 2015December 19, 2017

Moore & Giles Bray Sportsman Duffel Review – $1200

Spring is finally prevailing here in the Inland Northwest. Trees are starting to leave out, flowers are blooming, the snow is melting and the rivers are full. I always get excited about this time of year because it’s prime time for me to delve into one of my favorite hobbies…fly fishing.

Fly fishing is a great sport and I hope to actively continue swinging flies for the rest of my life. The only downfall to the sport is that it requires a lot of gear (most of it expensive too)…particularly in the spring and late fall when the air and water temperatures are still very chilly.

“They say you forget your troubles on a trout stream, but that’s not quite it. What happens is that you begin to see where your troubles fit into the grand scheme of things, and suddenly they’re just not such a big deal anymore.” – John Gierach

In a conversation earlier this year, a friend of BestLeather’s, Daryl Calfee of Moore & Giles Co., said I needed to check out the Bray Sportsman Duffel. And now, here it is.

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.

Construction

When the Bray arrived in my office, the first thing that struck me was the sheer size of the duffel. At 15”L x 17”H x 13”W, it’s big. It’s not a traditionally shaped duffel either. Most of the time when you hear duffel or duffle, you think of a cylindrical shaped bag. The Bray is more of a cube.

More details about their construction comes directly from Moore & Giles: “The construction process is meticulous – ensuring every stitch and strap are perfectly crafted in place. The leather is our finest Moore & Giles Titan Milled Brown. This leather is crafted in only one small 5th generation tannery located at the foothills of the Italian Dolomites. This leather will get better with age and adventure. The body is constructed of our strong and water resistant Waxwear Rangertan. It too will age beautifully and wear in with a patina that is as unique as the places you take the Bray.”

Function

A lot of great planning went into the creation of the Bray. It’s a feature rich bag that just keeps exposing more and more uses. It’s designed to be an outfitter’s bag or a guide’s bag. But, it’s totally set up for the gentleman who’s off to spend a week at an Alaskan lodge to stalk salmon on the fly, the dude who’s heading down to Bolivia to stalk Golden Dorado from one of the great lodges there, or for the man taking to the salt flats in search of Bonefish. Whatever your pleasure, this bag will carry all of your fly gear in high style.

The interior of the bag is spacious. With one, large top flap you gain access to the interior, which features a removable waterproof lining with a cinch closure. This is perfect for wet waders and/or your wading boots. It keeps the sand, mud, and mess inside. The compartment is vented though, which is great to provide air circulation and prevent mold/mildew inside. The exterior of the bag features an entire side with pockets designed to store your reels, fly lines, fly boxes, tools, etc. And, on each side of the bag are leather straps so you can lash down three of your favorite fly rods in their storage tubes. In addition to the nice, long handles, the bag comes with a solid leather, adjustable shoulder strap, which is great because when fully loaded the Bray can be bulky and heavy.

Aesthetic

This is a beautiful bag. The leather is supple and has a great texture to it. The waxed canvas looks fantastic too. The aged brass hardware combines with the other two components to create a trifecta of visual awesomeness. This is definitely a bag designed for adventure. I’ve had the chance to show this bag off to a few different people and the result has been unanimous. They all have loved it. And, they all asked if they could keep it. No chance of that happening!

Conclusion

The Moore & Giles Bray Sportsman Duffel exudes a combination of refined ruggedness and luxury. At $1200, it’s not a purchase to be made lightly for most of us. But, there aren’t many other bags that can contend with it in this particular niche either. If you’re an avid fly fisherman who enjoys traveling with style and likes the leisurely appeal of great lodges, this is a perfect choice for you. In fact, it’s made for you.

It’s definitely a Buy It for Life item and will certainly be something to be handed down to sons and grandsons who have followed in your footsteps and passionately enjoy fishing with a fly rod.

A Quiet Morning on the Tye from Moore & Giles, Inc. on Vimeo.

April 9, 2015December 19, 2017

W.H. Earl Westport Four Pocket Billfold Review- $115

Take out your wallet. Notice any cracked plastic on the ID window, tears in the nylon lining or maybe a tag indicating it was made in a country you never heard of until now? Of all man’s personal possessions, his wallet likely sees the most action. When you want something that will hold up to the daily grind year after year, the W.H. Earl Westport Four Pocket Billfold is a good option.

CONSTRUCTION

The Westport Billfold is available in a multitude of leathers and thread colors. The wallet reviewed consisted of a Chromexcel horse strip exterior and a Wickett & Craig show harness interior. The exterior Chromexcel provides a great looking shell while the W&C show harness leather is thinner making the wallet easier to handle. Ritza thread is used to keep it all together. The W.H. Earl insignia adorns the inner right pocket. The wallet measures in at 3.25” tall and 4.25” long when closed.

FUNCTION

The Westport is pretty stiff initially. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as almost all quality leather requires break in. To speed things up, I just put a few heavy books on top of it before bed every night. The Chromexcel becomes pliable pretty quickly though. This is a hefty wallet and has no problem carrying a full loadout of cards and cash. There are 4 pockets and each can carry 2 cards without issue and you could probably get a few more in if you like to live dangerously. The Westport sits snugly in my back pocket and is surprisingly discreet. And it is a billfold so getting cash in and out is a dream.

AESTHETIC

The Westport is a masculine wallet that still remains classy. The L pattern of stitching that runs along the exterior looks sharp and gives the wallet dimension. The W.H. Earl branding on the interior provides some intrigue and the wave like cut on the pockets give the wallet a distinct touch that separates it from its mass produced cousins. The rich leather smell is delicious and that Chromexcel exterior is smooth. I highly anticipate the look of this wallet in a year from now as I’m sure it will look better with age.

CONCLUSION

While most department store wallets run somewhere in the $35-50 dollar price range, the $115 cost might seem high. But given those cheaper wallets usually only last a few years, you’ll most likely spend less in the long run. The W.H. Earl Four Pocket Billfold is a quality piece that really epitomizes the, “Buy the best and only cry once” maxim.

April 7, 2015December 19, 2017

Avund Goods iPhone 6 Sleeve + Wristlet Review – $99

There’s a plethora of iPhone carry options on the market. Even with all the varieties it’s still hard to stand out since everything available basically amounts to disposable plastic. Avund Goods iPhone 6 Sleeve + Wristlet presents itself as a quality alternative multi function accessory that you won’t want to toss after a week.

CONSTRUCTION

As with most of Avund Good’s products, the iPhone Sleeve is made from aniline finished vegetable tanned leather that has been dyed through and colored on both sides. This is the whiskey colored model that will develop a naturally darker patina with use. Avund also offers this sleeve in black. Edges are beveled and burnished with beeswax. The main body is one piece of leather stitched together (Using waxed polyester thread) and one smaller piece stitched around that to form the pockets. The wrist strap is riveted around the metal keyring. The keyring itself is secured to the main body by a strip of leather that is double stitched. I really don’t see this ever coming apart.

FUNCTION

The iPhone 6 Sleeve + Wristlet is great for those who like to travel light. My iPhone 6 fit in nice and snug, so there was no worries about it slipping out. A little caveat for people who use cases, unless the case is very slim fitting, your phone won’t fit in the sleeve. The pockets on the front and back of the sleeve are incredibly useful. They are perfect for stashing cash and cards. I like to fold my money around my cards and insert that in the front and I store a small wet-nap in the back just in case. Once on my wrist the sleeve is hardly noticeable. With smartphones getting bigger and bigger and women’s pockets getting smaller and smaller, this case is almost a necessity. The open bottom allows port access so you can charge your phone or listen to music with your earbuds unimpeded.

AESTHETIC

Avund has mastered stylistic simplicity. The sleeve’s whiskey coloring blends well in all environments and will weather all fashion trends. The iPhone itself is such a sleek and elegant piece of technology and it’s great to finally have a carry option that looks just as good. If you like the look of the sleeve minus the wristlet, Avund also offers a sleeve only version priced at $79.

CONCLUSION

If you don’t like being bogged down, yet still need a viable carry option for your cash and phone, Avund Goods iPhone 6 Sleeve + Wristlet is a perfect solution. Given the likelihood Apple will release a iPhone 6S at the same dimensions, this sleeve will serve you for repeated uses.

April 6, 2015December 19, 2017

Cravar F.C. 15 Bag Review – $395

My wife has great taste. Seriously, she does. But, there are some strings attached to that statement – especially when it comes to purses, satchels, bags, and backpacks. She’s grown to really appreciate fine leather goods (thank goodness), but that “string” is evident. What is the “string”? She likes her leather goods to be very simple and uncomplicated. While it’s easy to understand and appreciate that “string” – it’s sometimes hard to accommodate.

In light of that, I was thrilled to come across Cravar and their line of high quality leather goods. Today, we’ll be checking out Cravar’s F.C. 15 Bag in the espresso color.

About Cravar

Cravar is based near Jakarta, Indonesia. It was birthed out of a backpacking trip to Italy during 2005 when Yoki Baskara encountered an old stationery shop that was being operated by 3rd and 4th generation leather artisans. Yoki was also involved in wedding photography. In identifying a need for quality wedding albums, he assembled a team a craftsmen and began to assemble handcrafted leather wedding albums and tote bags. In 2012, Yoki proposed a plan to several close friends for a leather goods company and Cravar was born. After a very successful Kickstarter in 2013 followed up with another successful Kickstarter campaign in 2014 Cravar has starting carving its niche in the global leather products industry.

Construction

The leather used on the F.C. 15 (and all of Cravar’s bags) is bark tanned, full grain leather tanned right in Indonesia. Cravar’s solid brass hardware is also made in Indonesia as well. It comes from a small workshop called Sotta Art. The antique finish on the hardware provides a nice touch that accents the leather nicely. Thread used is bonded nylon. The interior of the bag is lined with Sunbrella material. Using Sunbrella as the lining keeps the bag’s overall weight lower and still provides an easy to wipe out, durable lining.

Function

Reverting back to my intro – you’ll notice the nice, simple closures on the F.C. 15. Yes! Finally, I have located a messenger bag that my wife really enjoys. Simple post and full body strap closures are her favorite. Add to that the great style of this bag, the color, and the storage it affords and my wife is very happy.

With three main compartments, it’s very capable of carrying and organizing just about anything you can think of. The two outer compartments are large enough to house an iPad Mini or similar device. Of course smartphones, charger cords, checkbook, pens, etc. will all fit in here with ease. The main compartment will carry a 15” laptop with ease and still have room for a variety of other things (books, sweater, whatever). The shoulder strap is easily adjusted and features a nice, wide, thick pad – it’s long enough to carry cross body too.

In addition to the Sunbrella lining, they’ve also included a Sunbrella zipper pouch, which is a nice little feature. It will easily hold all of your small items or personal items and keep them from rolling around in the bottom of your bag. And, if you don’t need it, you can leave it at home.

One of the really nice features is the way the flap is molded to completely cover the entire opening of the bag. Not only does it keep everything safe and secure inside your bag, it also keeps everything dry. It sounds minor, but there are a lot of messenger bags out there that have gaps on each side where the main flap doesn’t cover them. If you live in an area where it rains or snows frequently, this is an important consideration.

Aesthetic

The F.C. 15 comes in four different leather colors (same holds true for all of their bags). The espresso color, the thread color, and hardware all combine to create a visual treat. I really like the way this bag looks. I’m not always a fan of black leather…but there’s just enough of a hint of dark, dark brown in this one that I think it has won me over. Perhaps it’s because I’m a huge fan and consumer of espresso? Who knows… But, I like the way this bag looks and it seems that many other people do too because they comment about it frequently.

Conclusion

The Cravar F.C. 15 is a very nice from many of the messenger bags out there. It seems there is quite a bit of similarity in the market right now…many bags seem look the same. So, it’s refreshing to see the F.C. 15 and the unique features that set it apart – the simple closure straps and the wrap around main flap. It’s a great bag, it’s well made, and it’s designed to be durable. It’s fairly priced at $395 (includes shipping) and it’s backed with a simple, hassle free warranty. Check out the F.C. 15 and be sure to look at the many other great looking designs Cravar has to offer too.

April 3, 2015December 19, 2017

Dropforge Leather Care Review

I’m an avid hunter. I enjoy “walking in the woods with a gun” every October in search of elusive elk. I then continue my trekking through November and into the beginning of December in search of whitetail and mule deer. For the past six seasons, my feet have had the pleasure of being swathed in a fantastic pair of Danner Hunting Boots. I don’t believe they make this particular model anymore – they’re 8” high, have the classic “Danner Bob” outsole, and feature solid leather uppers. They’re comfortable and bullet proof.

To be brutally honest, they have loved my feet well, but I have not reciprocated at all. I abuse them each season and then stick them on my hunting gear shelf in the garage. And…that’s been the story for the past six or so seasons (I can’t really remember when I got these boots).

When Luke asked about having us test the Dropforge Leather Care Cream , I did a quick mental inventory on what I thought would be a good test case and immediately and sadly thought of my trusty hunting boots. Their sad, neglected condition needs to be rectified…and Dropforge Leather Care has come to the rescue.

About Dropforge Leather Care

DropForge Leather Care is owned and operated by Bryan and his son Luke with the help of an old friend, Bob. They live in eastern Washington at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, namely Clarkston WA and create their products there too. Growing up on an Idaho farm and seeing first hand how leather needs to be treated, they got involved in the leather care industry in 1993. This led to 22 years of experimenting with what worked best in the industry, with first hand involvement in competitive products.

Now they’re embarking on their own with 25+ combined years of experience in the leather care industry. They seek to bring a fresh perspective and superior product line to the leather care community. Currently they’re running a Kickstarter campaign to help them propel their company forward. There’s still time to get in on funding their company and get some great products at the same time.

Testing Dropforge Leather Care’s Cream

By now, you’ve seen the corresponding images of my boots. Yes, shame on me for not giving them more love over the years. But…dang, they’re awesome and have held up really, really well to substantial abuse over the years!

After banging out most of last season’s mud and shaking out some pine needles and junk the boots were ready for application of the Dropforge Leather Care Cream. Over the years I’ve used a variety of cloths and applicators for saddle soap, leather cleaners, and conditioners. However, when I’m working on a pair of boots I always gravitate to a trusty old sock. It is my favorite because it slips over my hand and allows me to work the product in easily with all of my fingers. The sock has just enough texture to allow you to really work the Cream in deeply.

The Cream is a soft product and goes on very easily. It has an extremely pleasant smell too, which shouldn’t be a surprise since it’s chemical free and all natural. It contains natural oils and beeswax. It’s the “bee” part that makes it smell, well…delicious. I was craving some really good toast, a little butter, and honey the entire time I was conditioning my boots. The Cream was easy to manipulate into all of the nooks and crannies on my boots and covered them entirely without issue.

Once you’ve applied the product Dropforge recommends that you let it sit overnight. If you’re able to set your conditioned products out in the sun or near a heat source this will also help the conditioning and waterproofing process. So…now, I need to be patient and let Cream work its magic.

Impression

My initial impression is very positive for Dropforge Leather Care’s Cream. It’s easy to apply, smells great, is all-natural, and already has my boots looking much, much more loved and appreciated. It looks like it’s going to protect and preserve my boots for many more seasons to come.

Recommendation

There are lots of other players in the leather care industry. All of them have benefits and drawbacks attached to them. Some contain harsh chemicals and some are all natural, like Dropforge Leather Care. I admire Brian, Luke, and Bob for creating Dropforge and entering into the leather care arena. I definitely like their product. They’re making some great strategic alliances with several highly respected leather companies too – so, their product is definitely proving itself worthy.

Dropforge-Leather-Care-Review-11 — Next day – they’re looking much more loved!

Having an all natural, eco-friendly, safe cleaner and conditioner that’s safe to use on small and large leather products is fantastic. We’ve had several people email us recently looking for a viable product to use on leather furniture and it seems like Dropforge fits that need very well. One of these days maybe we’ll venture into reviewing leather furniture and will be able to test it first hand. In seeing how well it worked on my great, but abused boots, I imagine it will work extremely well on furniture.

Dropforge-Leather-Care-Review-10 — Next day, definitely a marked improvement…leather feels much more supple.

Next day impressions: I’m sold. My boots look much more loved now. There is no greasy residue on them and they look much, much better. They feel much more supple too. Due to the lack of conditioning on these boots, I’m actually going to apply another coat of Dropforge Leather Care’s Cream to them. I think one more application will put the boots in marvelous condition.

There’s a little less than a week left on their Kickstarter campaign. They have several great reward packages set up. We encourage you to back these guys (I did) and in return, you’ll receive some very high quality leather care products. I’m sure I’m not the only dude with a pair of boots that need some attention (or saddles, messenger bags, leather furniture, etc, etc.). Your leather products will thank you and you’ll definitely feel better about yourself after you’ve conditioned them too! Or, if you prefer, you can order products directly from their website: www.dropforgeleathercare.com.

April 3, 2015December 19, 2017

Popov Leather Wallets Review – $35-$60

The market for buying well-made, unique, and durable wallets has exploded over the past three to four years, but that sweet spot of incredible quality and incredible value is still hard to find. Although many companies have tried to hit it, Popov Leather is one of the few who have really pulled it off. Ryan and Jill started their small operation out of Victoria BC, Canada in 2013 with the goal of making quality, minimalist wallets and have been hitting that mark ever since.

I had the chance to test out four wallets from Popov Leather and each one is spectacular. One thing that I simply can’t get over is the overall value of these wallets. Each one is handcrafted and finished in a similar fashion to products from much pricier outfits. I usually don’t gush over a product, but these wallets are certainly deserving of it.

Construction

Every single Popov Leather wallet is made with the two of the most trusted names in the business: Horween Leather and Tiger thread. By using these two brands and putting them together with expert care, the people at Popov Leather complete the trifecta of the ideal no-nonsense leather good.

I expected to see a few stitches out of line simply because of the price, but Ryan and Jill have really taken time and care in creating these wallets. They even burnish the edges to a smooth finish! Included with each piece is a lifetime guarantee, but I seriously doubt anyone will ever have to cash in on it after testing out their wallets.

Function

Chromexcel Traditional Billfold Wallet – $60

This wallet does everything to highlight the company’s mission of providing incredible value to their customers. It has great construction, beautiful finish, and an unbelievable price for it all. As for function, it performs just as I would expect a billfold to. There are four card pockets and a single, large bill pocket. Like all new, full-grain leather wallets it took a week or two of use to get loosened up to the point where the cards slid in and out easily. Some might be put off by the lack of lining, but I actually find it to be better for a wallet since it keeps the thickness down.

Chromexcel Leather Card Holder – $35

I love this particular style of wallet. Although it’s called a card holder, it really can function as a complete wallet due to the three pockets which can be used for both cards and cash. I think it is for this reason that it become a relatively popular design among leather companies. It’s small enough to easily slide into the front pocket without making it noticeable and the way the outside piece of leather holds everything together guarantees a snug fit for everything its carrying.

If you are worried that you may not be able to carry everything in it, let me give a bit of perspective. I was able to fit five cards and about $50 into it comfortably. You may be able to cram another card or two into it, but if you carry that many you may want to go with the billfold.

Chromexcel Leather Passport Case – $50

This is probably my favorite wallet out of the bunch. Even though it may be a bit too long for everyday use, I love it because it’s everything you need for international travel without any extras. Many passport wallets I’ve seen are either too thick or try to add more than what I would typically use on a trip. Popov, instead gives just two slots for cards, a nice wide pocket for all types of bills and tickets, and sleeve for your passport. Everything is contained in a slim package that can slip into the back pocket with only a little peeking out the top.

If you’re not a world traveler but want an all-in-one checkbook and wallet, you can modify it a bit to fit a sleeve of checks into the space intended for the passport. Either way, for $50 this wallet is a steal.

Chromexcel Fields Note Cover – $40

I’ve never been one for note taking but Popov’s notebook case really has me wanting to start. The construction is almost identical to the Passport case and functions very similarly. There is a sleeve for the notebook and another sleeve for any other papers you would want to carry around. Also like the passport case, this notebook is pretty easy to fit in pant pockets and will fit into a pack without much notice. The one thing I wish it had was a pen holder. I realize that Popov Leather strives to for minimalism, and it does so beautifully, but a pen slot would be awesome and really add to the functionality of this piece. Even with the lack of a place to put a pen the notebook cover is still a great buy.

Aesthetic

As I have said repeatedly, these wallets are incredibly attractive. Popov has created some of the best looking wallets I have seen. They are not particularly unique in design or looks, but they are simply elegant. Depending on the color you choose, the wallets would look just as at home with a suit as they would with a pair of jeans. The style is timeless and will look just as good in 50 years as it did the day it came off the bench.

Ryan and Jill have used minimal amounts of stitching, leaving the leather to really shine in all its glory. It’s very apparent that they take pride in their wallets because the finishing work is top notch. All of the edges are burnished and smoothed to create a simple, clean look while still retaining the rugged handsomeness I appreciate. Popov also offers monograming for only $5 additional on all products to provide that personal touch and identity that many people appreciate.

Conclusion

If there is one word to describe Popov Leather, it would be “value”. No other company that I have seen has provided so much for such a reasonable price. As I have said before, I usually don’t gush over products that I review, but I still can’t get over the quality of material, craftsmanship, and design that Popov gives at this price. If you are in the market for a new wallet, or need gift ideas, you need to take a look at Popov. These two truly make a buy-it-for-life product. They are a young company, but have already proven that they know their stuff. I can’t wait to see what else they do in the future.

Check out these wallet and other great gear from Popov Leather here!

April 2, 2015December 19, 2017

W.H. Earl Dry Goods Walnut Belt – $80

If you’re a regular reader of BestLeather, you’ve probably started to form an appreciation for well made products. Admittedly though, sometimes the products and pricing can be intimidating. If you’re looking to dabble in the world of fine leather goods, a belt is a great way to start. W.H. Earl Dry Goods Walnut Belt would be a good start.

ABOUT W.H. EARL DRY GOODS

W.H. Earl Dry Goods is a one man operation run by Nathan Hamm. Based in Portland Oregon, all his products are handmade and he offers a variety of wallets, belts, cardholders and more. The name W.H. Earl is a nod to Nathan’s family history as W.H. Earl was an artilleryman in the Civil War who later ran a general store. Using only the best materials available, W.H. Earl Dry Goods goal is to provide functional, durable products that will last for years to come.

CONSTRUCTION

The belt we reviewed was the Walnut Belt. It is comprised of one long strip of Hermann Oak vegetable tanned leather. The belt gets its signature look from actually being stained with dye made from black walnut hulls. The hardware used is solid brass and is sturdily kept in place by Ritza Tiger thread. You have the W.H. Earl branding on the interior below the buckle. The belt is 1.5” wide and has teardrop holes which are especially useful for reducing “buckle bulge.” W.H. Earl also has other options for the buckle finish and thread color for really personalizing your belt.

FUNCTION

The life of a belt is a simple one, and the Walnut Belt delivers. The leather is treated with a wax finish that gives protection against moisture and abrasion, but I find the best benefit of that smooth finish is that it is incredibly easy to get through my jean belt loops. The holes are spaced 1.25” apart and I was able to find that sweet spot of being tight but not too tight. The belt is stout enough that I can throw on my knife, keys or other belt mounted essentials with confidence.

AESTHETIC

The Walnut belt has a rugged and adventurous vibe to it. The walnut dyes really gives character to the grain. It’s not uncommon to feel the sudden urge to chop wood or search for Atlantis when putting this belt on. I find this belt pairs particularly well with denim jeans. The brass buckle looks great and really adds to the overall look.

CONCLUSION

The W.H. Earl Walnut Belt is a solid investment. It’s a triple threat being rugged, well made and quite handsome. At $80 dollars, its affordable and you’re supporting American craftsmanship. So if you’re looking for a belt as manly as you, I’d recommend checking it out.

April 1, 2015December 19, 2017

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.

Leather Head Sports 12lb Medicine Ball (11)

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?

Leather Head Sports 12lb Medicine Ball (9)

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.

Leather Head Sports 12lb Medicine Ball (8)

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.

Leather Head Sports 12lb Medicine Ball (10)

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.