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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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?
Stitched Gear Outfitters began as a collaborative effort between Randy Smith, an ex-rodeo rider/saddle maker/leatherworker and Wayne Bell, an ex-state law enforcement officer with an eye for product design and practical functionality. Together they have been making gear for friends and family for decades before deciding to share their creations with the general public. By focusing on an initial small assortment of belts, they are able to dedicate their efforts towards hand-selecting the highest quality materials and crafting each piece in-house by themselves.
CONSTRUCTION
The Men’s Original Belt is created using THICK 10-12 oz hand-selected full grain vegetable tanned leather cut 1½ inch wide. The leather chosen is from the firm back of the cow instead of the soft underbelly for a sturdier shape that doesn’t roll or bend during use. Wayne and Randy also hand select each dyed hide themselves to ensure that each hide is evenly dyed throughout from outer to inner surface. Industrial strength stitching is done with American bonded UV resistant nylon and the buyer has a choice of a solid brass roller buckle or polished stainless steel. If you change your mind, these buckles are easily exchanged due to the Chicago screw design. The edges are dyed and burnished for an elegant finish. When you purchase your belt, either Randy or Wayne will personally construct your belt to your size. If Randy makes your belt you will find his maker’s mark “star” on the tip of the tail. Wayne’s belts will be finished without a mark. Like all Stitched Gear belts, the Original Belt carries a lifetime warranty against defects in materials or workmanship.
FUNCTION
This belt was designed for maximum function. It was created for those who like to add gun holsters, cell phones, knives, or other equipment necessary for day-to-day life. Aptly named Stitched Gear Outfitters, the company pays extra attention to using recessed stitching to prevent any unnecessary abrasion and weakening against add-on equipment. There are also seven holes instead of a standard five. Three holes are added above and below your desired size, to last through a lifetime of changes to your midsection as well as adjust to waistband holsters while maintaining a secure fit.
AESTHETIC
Although this belt is perfect for the everyday rugged, gun-carrying outdoorsman, it works equally well in a professional office setting. The belt’s final design is streamlined for rugged but elegant functionality. It comes in saddle tan as shown, dark brown, or black. This particular belt in saddle tan is a deep honey color which works with denim or khakis and is just begging for a darkened patina from use. Together with the brass buckle, it goes perfectly with business casual attire and can easily be transitioned to casual wear with jeans or shorts. The contrast stitching is done with a natural light tan color although a black option is available. If the contrast stitching, color, and buckle choices weren’t enough to satisfy you, the Stitched Gear team even thought about logo placement. The belts are tastefully stamped with the logo under the tail section so as to not be visible when being worn and the extra maker’s mark adds that personal handmade touch so you know this was thoughtfully made specifically for you.
Logo cleverly placed where it becomes hidden by the tail when worn.Star = Randy made mine!
BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION
The Stitched Gear Men’s Original Belt is currently on sale for $55. It’s rugged. It’s functional. It’s stylish. There are many times when a belt is just a slip of leather with a buckle, but when you can tell that every little design and construction detail was so thoughtfully implemented, you cannot help but admire the belt and the company behind it. With the current sale, it’s even harder to resist so grab one before the sale’s over!
Do you ever get something that just makes you feel fancy? Something new that you just can’t wait to use? Maybe it’s a new wallet or a nice manicure or a new pair of shoes. For me, that’s how I felt about the Colonel Littleton No. 18 Tablet Portfolio. When I saw it come in for review, I swooped in and snatched it up for myself.
See, I’m a speech-therapist-in-training, and these days, I carry around an iPad and a notebook for use in the clinic. So when a gorgeous iPad and notebook portfolio comes my way, I claim it for field testing.
ABOUT COLONEL LITTLETON
Colonel Littleton is based out of Lynnville, Tennessee, a town with a population of 327. The real Colonel Littleton himself got his start selling vintage cufflinks in 1987, which sparked an interest in creating unique, heirloom items. Now, 28 years later, Colonel Littleton makes bags, belts, hats, wallets, knives, cologne, and more, all with a unique Tennessee flair.
THE LEATHER
Colonel Littleton primarily uses full-grain, vegetable-tanned, American hides for its products. The leather on the No. 18 Tablet Portfolio is a lovely polished, double-tanned black full-grain leather. The snap closure on the front is made of the same leather but tanned in a chestnut brown color. For an additional $8.00, you can get your initials embossed on this strap. The finish on the leather is great for a portfolio. It’s fairly scratch-resistant and won’t get stained. The stitching is absolutely perfect and makes the whole piece look very polished.
The No. 18 Tablet Portfolio comes in black with brown trim, as seen here. I like the black with brown because it goes with just about anything else I choose to carry. It also comes in all black or all brown for the same price, brown buffalo for $215…or in all alligator for $1650. The same size portfolio is also available without a tablet pouch for $150 if you’re not an iPad user.
FUNCTION
I have literally met older speech therapists who had to have shoulder surgery from lugging around so much stuff all day. So I have avowed to try to be as minimalist as possible when it comes to carrying the essentials. Thanks to lightweight technology like iPads, and wonderful portfolios like this one, my shoulders may still stand a chance (though I may be naïve about the amount of paperwork looming in my future). The No. 18 Tablet Portfolio has two brass snaps on the closure that allow it to expand to fit a big stack of documents if need be.
The left side of the portfolio has a business card slot, a tablet pouch, and a diagonal slot for documents. There is a little loop in the center for a pen or pencil. The right side holds a standard legal pad by tucking the cardboard back into two leather straps. The portfolio comes with Colonel Littleton’s Memorandum pad, their proprietary legal pad with brass rivets and thick paper, which you can reorder on their website.
CONCLUSION
What really stands out about the No. 18 Tablet Portfolio is the attention to detail. The double snap closure, the business card slot, the penholder, even the included legal pad and pencil are unique and customized for this piece. You won’t find another portfolio as distinctive as this one for $189.50. It’s American made, it’s full-grain American leather, and it does its job beautifully. Make sure to order some extra legal pads because you’ll be using this often.
In our last Orox Leather Co. review of the Medicus Dopp, we saw a single piece of oil tanned leather shaped into a beautiful utility kit for toiletries. Today we get our leather fix with the Orox iPad Sleeve, yet another item made of a single swath of oil tanned full grain goodness to cover and protect your iPad.
CONSTRUCTION
All Orox goods are handmade in Portland Oregon. The iPad Sleeve is made of a single thick piece of full grain hide oil tanned in Red Wing, Minnesota. If you’ve heard of Red Wing before, it’s because it’s the birthplace of a famous shoe company and home to one of the oldest of the remaining great tanneries in the USA – so yea, they know their leather. This particular leather used for the iPad has a particularly high oil content which makes it BUTTERY soft and supple enough to roll into a tube and keep its shape without leaving any creases. The iPad Sleeve is a basic rectangular envelope design measuring 11’’ x 8’’ which is more than enough to fit the iPad Air 2 (9.4” x6.6’’) or its predecessors. There is a single row of stitching along each side to create the sleeve. The Orox signature tab closure is a single firm piece of leather in the shape similar to a guitar pick which hooks onto a leather tab to keep the flap closed. The inside of the sleeve is unlined and the Orox company logo is debossed into the right front corner while the name is debossed along the contralateral edge on the back side.
FUNCTION
Well this sleeve really just holds an iPad so there’s not much to say. Does it work? Yes! Will it fit my iPad WITH a case? Yes! Is it comfortable and easy to hold? Double Yes!
But when it comes to an iPad sleeve, function is where I feel most people underestimate the importance of the design process. Yes, the signature tab is quick, easy, and cool but there are other benefits. The closure has no hanging parts like a cord that gets tangled and unkempt. There are no magnets that can wreak havoc on the screen and hardware components, and, most importantly, this closure does not require any downward pressure to close like your standard push tab. This means you’re not repeatedly pushing all this force onto a single focal part of your screen. So let’s go back to Physics 101. Pressure = Force/Area. No Force = No Pressure. It’s a win-win for your $400+ iPad!! Someone at the Orox Leather Company was clearly thinking…
AESTHETIC
The leather sleeve in brown looks sharp, dark, and polished which means it can work well with your sweatpants and hoodie in the school library or in your D&G suit at the executive committee meeting. The smell of oils and leather will bring a smile to any true leather lover’s face. Overall the sleeve’s clean appearance with its rounded flap edges make it an understated beauty which begs to be picked up and enjoyed by feel and smell. This sleeve also comes in Tan color.
BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION
The Orox Leather Co. iPad Sleeve 2 & Air is regularly priced at $140. While you won’t be finding this sleeve at the dollar store, it’s best held by someone who truly appreciates fine leather goods and realizes its finer details from sizing, leather selection, and closure design. If you can afford an iPad that goes out of style every year, purchasing a quality sleeve that will last a lifetime of iPads isn’t a hard decision to make. Check it out on the website, who knows? It might be on sale.
Leather Madness is a small leather company started by Kamal Kahn and a group of friends just 3 years ago. Someone wanted the leather jacket that Hugh Jackman wore as X-Men’s Wolverine and when they couldn’t find one, they dug up some pictures and took it to a leatherworker friend who constructed a prototype. They loved it so much that they each had one made. Next their friends wanted one, and a business was born. The first jackets were sold on eBay by various distributors, but now they can also be found on the Leather Madness website. Although they plan on expanding their leather products to include clothing, bags, accessories, etc, their current forte is jackets – particularly ones with designs taken from popular movies and celebrities. Seeing that I’m somewhat of a Trekkie (nerd-alert), I couldn’t help but test out the Star Trek Black Leather Jacket worn by Chris Pine in the Star Trek 2009 movie.
CONSTRUCTION
In order to create jackets from recent or upcoming movies, a research team looks for images from media and previews online to create prototype designs. All Leather Madness leather jackets are then made from full-grain leather from Karachi, Pakistan where leather is produced for major fashion labels all around the world. Two master leatherworkers finalize the designs and oversee a team of skilled workmen who create the jackets. This particular Star Trek jacket is made of tumble-washed sheepskin leather for a softer look and feel. The general structure is similar to a biker jacket with a slim tailored fit, but the stitching, pockets, and durable YKK zippers are designed to resemble the ones that Chris Pine wore in the movie. All stitching is double stitched for durability and the lining is polyester. The jacket was shipped directly from Pakistan through DHL and arrived to New York in about a week. The one thing I definitely noticed was the sheep-y smell from the jacket. Seeing that I was expecting a genuine sheepskin jacket, I’m not disappointed and it’s much less noticeable after a few weeks.
FUNCTION
This jacket is constructed to look like the Star Trek jacket, but it is very soft and supple while functioning like any quality leather jacket. Because it is a lighter jacket, it would be best for cold weather in the 50+ degree range, but I still wear it in 10 degree weather here under a larger down jacket. There are a bazillion pockets – two open hand warmer pockets in the front, two zipped front chest pockets, one inner pocket with an additional top pocket, one zipped pocket on the right upper arm, and one zipped pocket on the left lower arm. The cuffs are also zipped in case you need an expanded cuff for gloves. They are all functional pockets and the zippers feel substantial and glide very smoothly.
Although many of the jackets on the Leather Madness website would be better for cosplay conventions (ex: the Captain America jacket), this particular jacket works well as everyday casual outwear.
AESTHETIC
I chose to get the Star Trek jacket because I wanted a modern short open collar style jacket with that unique “saw it in a movie” appeal but didn’t scream costume. This ended up being a great decision. When I wore it to work for the first time, two coworkers stopped to touch and compliment the jacket. Words like “hot” and “no… seriously HOT” were thrown around. No one recognized it from Star Trek, and when I did mention it, it only added to the interest. If you don’t have a single leather biker jacket in your wardrobe, GET ONE. I now consider it a staple to any wardrobe.
There is a very detailed sizing chart on the Leather Madness website which helps you decide which size you should pick from XS to 3XL. If you want the perfect fit or have an uncommon body shape, you may decide to use custom sizing for $50 where you send in your measurements and they custom make a jacket for you. I fall between an XS and a S so I chose the XS for a better fit. It was a bit tight in the beginning but after about two days of wear, the jacket softened and molded to my build. Since leather stretches, I would definitely recommend getting the smaller size if you fall in between two sizes.
BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION
Leather Madness’s Star Trek Black Leather Jacket is a great buy for $169.99. I had my initial doubts that I would be receiving a genuine quality leather jacket in a reasonable time from a distant country, but I have been pleased with every aspect of this jacket and I have to give credit where it is due. If you are unsure about dropping hundreds of dollars for a jacket from the mall or want another casual everyday jacket for your collection, save yourself some hassle and money and check out Leather Madness.
Leather – it’s been part of daily life for so many people for thousands of years. You’d think by now that creative uses and designs that implement leather would be tapped out. Well, my friend…it seems that we’re not even close to reaching the creative limits of how leather is used to complement life. We’ve had our eyes on one particular company for a couple of years now that is combining the rich heritage of quality leather goods production and innovation. Now, we have the privilege of reviewing several of their leading products and we’re very excited about it.
About Colonel Littleton
Colonel Littleton was founded in 1987 in Lynnville, Tennessee. Since its inception the Colonel’s leather products have been sought after and are considered heirloom quality. The Colonel himself designs all of the products. To me, it seems that they all combine a bit of history, nostalgia, and a little bit of a twist on regular, conventional thinking…all of which combine to create unique, signature pieces.
Construction
Each Colonel Littleton piece is a combination of two great things: expert craftsmanship and high quality materials. And, as a bonus they’re 100% made in the USA.
“The leather from which most of our products are made is from full-grain American hides hand-tanned especially for us at a small, local tannery. They know I don’t want to see leather from what I call “condominium” cows . . . leather that is almost antiseptic in its perfection . . . citified and devoid of character. I want leather from rugged, Americana, John Wayne kind of cows – cows that have rolled in the dirt and kicked up their heels in the herd. Give me scrapes and nicks and insect bites and barbed-wire scratches. Show me some spirit.” The only leather not American-sourced is that which is used in their belts, which is Italian Bridle Leather.
Many of the pieces of hardware are manufactured right on site too. Check out this short little video where the Colonel discusses how he makes the signature latch you see on the featured No. 40 Campaign Bag. The video here is for another bag, but he shows how he uses an antique kick press to make part of the latch…pretty cool!
The construction of the No. 40 Campaign Bag is impeccable. This bag is designed and built to last forever.
Function
The Colonel Littleton No. 40 Campaign Bag is essentially a vertical messenger bag. In spite of its vertical design, it will hold quite a bit. The inside dimensions of the bag are 14.5” high, 12.5” wide, and 3” deep. When opened you’ll find one very large leather organizer/divider that hangs down about 6” and has one large slot, a business card slot, and what appears to be a couple of pen slots. This piece snaps in and out of place. It provides a little separation, which is nice. I have a 13” MacBook Air and it will actually slide in behind the divider. That leaves plenty of room to slip in a charger, cables, my planner, and other assorted items.
If I had a larger computer, I’d just slip it in front of that organizer without issue. There is one slot pocket on the back of the bag too which works well for a magazine, notepad, or a book. At 4.2 pounds when empty, it’s not heavy at all – allowing you to load it up with your items and still transport it with ease.
There are 3 ways to open and keep the bag secured. You can use the single stud latch, unsnap the two straps, or unbuckle the straps – it’s your choice. I’ve found myself just using the latch on those occasions when I am off to multiple meetings and I need to be in and out of the bag several times in a short period. Not having to unbuckle the straps every time is a nice feature. The brass snaps (and all of the hardware) feels very sturdy and should last a long time.
The copper tube that anchors the strap and handle provides a nice, stable, sturdy carry platform. The handle itself is thick and comfortable. The shoulder strap is beautiful and easily adjustable however, it’s just a little too short. I’m a tall guy and will easily acknowledge that without issue. I have the strap on its longest setting and it’s just fine. However, folks shorter than me will find it impossible to adjust it to be long enough to carry the bag cross body. It would be great to see the strap have a few more inches of adjustability.
Aesthetic
This is a beautiful bag. The leather is supple and the vintage brown color is great. When you combine this great looking leather with brass and copper hardware, it creates a stunning bag that people everywhere notice every time you carry it. Seriously – every time I have had this bag out with me it has generated questions and interest.
The brass monogrammed shield on the front and the pommel shield on the back with the serial number speak to the dedication Colonel Littleton has to creating heirloom quality pieces that can be handed down for generations to come.
Conclusion
I can see myself carrying the Colonel Littleton No. 40 Campaign Bag for several decades to come. And, my three sons are already vying for who is going to get it when I decide to stop carrying it. Hopefully I get to choose when that date comes – but, even if I don’t and my Maker chooses for me, the bag will still be looking good and fully capable of performing its job for one of my boys and probably one of their kids as well.
The No. 40 Campaign Bag isn’t cheap. At $809, it is an investment. But, rest assured, this is a Buy It for Life item. As the Colonel says, “There are only two things that determine what things are worth – the time it takes to build them and the materials from which they’re made. So, if you want to make it cheaper, all you have to do is put less time and cheaper materials into it and quality suffers. We don’t cut corners to make it for less . . . that’s not what our customers expect from us. They are looking for something of value that is genuine and long-lasting. Many years down the road when someone comes across a product that says “Col. Littleton – Made in Lynnville, Tennessee USA” my goal is that it retain the character and beauty it had the day it was made, and my hope is that people will know that a lot of heart and soul went into it.”
So, buy with confidence from Colonel Littleton. You’ll enjoy your investment and so will the folks who inherit it from you later on down the road.
In the Holdster Model 01 and Model 05 reviews, we saw two creative accessories designed to make the everyday act of drinking just that much better. Today we’re taking a look at the Holdster Fist Model Coasters, the perfect accessory to the accessory, ideal for anyone who loves a refreshing cold drink but hates water stains.
CONSTRUCTION
The Holdster Fist Model Coaster is a simple design. It is a single piece of thick full-grain vegetable-tanned leather from Hermann Oak or Chahin Tannery cut in a circle. Tadaa! There are no gimmicks or artful design choices in this yet Marsh Gooding still expects the same amount of effort and attention to detail in each one. The edges are in black finish and the fist with the lightening bolt is proudly debossed in the center of each one.
FUNCTION
These coasters are firm and perfectly flat, therefore they work. The end.
AESTHETIC
Depending on the leather from which each coaster was cut, no two coasters will be exactly alike. There may be color variations as well as debossing variations but this definitely adds character to these leather pieces. The coasters may or may not be your cup of tea depending on whether you like large awesome logos on your coasters. If you do, these will definitely get people talking at your next get together. But wait! What if you don’t? Well, here’s the easy solution. Flip the coasters upside down! The undersurface is polished and smooth thereby creating an additional aesthetic option for these these leather coasters. Finally, feel free to let your coasters catch as much condensation as possible. After all, that’s what it was made for but the secondary benefit is you get to watch your coasters gain a worn-in patina as the leather color changes from the water.
Flip them over for another look.
BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION
The Holdster Fist Model Coasters are well worth the $29.99. You’ll be lucky if you find a set of four genuine full-grain vegetable-tanned leather coasters made in the USA for less than $40. If you do, get them…and get these too because do you really just want to have three friends?
Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy,
But not expressed in fancy—rich, not gaudy,
For the apparel oft proclaims the man.
—Polonius, “Hamlet” Act 1, Scene 3.
Take a look at the man above. Without even knowing what he looks like beneath his clothes, any man would trade places with him without a moment’s hesitation.
Now consider the man below…
Is he known to be particularly homely or ungainly? Or is he rather known around the world as a top-shelf looker? Would any man not desire to trade appearances with him? And yet now consider the patently hideous visual impact he makes here. Would you boldly stride through public spaces in such a get-up? Would you show up for a job interview, serve a subpoena, or deliver a fine oration? Whatever else may be said about Shakespeare’s Polonius, his advice is sound: Spend all you can afford on clothes, but make sure they’re quality, not flashy, since clothes make the man.
In my experience, sometimes even a single article or accessory can substantially improve the visual impact delivered by one’s appearance.
When TJ saw me carrying around a stack of 120 undergraduate essays on Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics and Plato’s Republic in two paper filing folders, he offered to upgrade me to something better suited to the task. Something that would reflect the importance and prestige of the documents it carries: the StevensLeather Portfolio Document Sleeve pictured above. The difference between the paper sleeves and the leather portfolio was akin to the difference between a paper gown and Cliff Secord’s jacket. I wondered why I had been carrying around pieces of trash. The next day it rained and I had to carry the papers across campus. Had they been in open paper sleeves they would have been soaked. Instead I looked classy, and the papers were dry when I delivered them to the professor. Had they been in the paper folders I suppose I could have carried them under my shirt. I probably wouldn’t have looked specifically bad when I walked into the office. I would have survived. This leather sleeve is not a necessity. But it is sharp.
It is big enough to hold a fairly thick stack of papers (roughly 120 1–2 page essays and Reason and Responsibilityedited by Joel Feinberg and Russ Shafer-Landau). It is constructed of a thick, rich, full-grain, hand-cut, hand-dyed, American-sourced bovine leather by a couple out of Saint Albans, West Virginia. The stitching is all done by hand with a thick nylon cord first coated with beeswax. It is basically the nicest portfolio crafted by humankind. With one caveat: the button. It has a nickel-plated snap that broke after a few days of use. The portfolio will likely endure with grace and class for another 100 years without it. The piece still looks and feels and smells amazing. Since they are made to order, I recommend checking back with the artisans before purchasing one to see whether the snap issue has been addressed. We’ll update this article if we hear first.
I am hoping that since I’ll be carrying it by hand it will develop a nice patina fairly quickly, but we shall see. At the end of the day, this item delivers a lot of visual and functional quality for its price. I recommend it for anyone who can imagine a use for it and who likes its overall appearance. See some more pictures or buy it straightaway here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/StevensLeather.
BestLeather has worked with hundreds of leather companies. Whether they have been making leather goods for centuries, decades, or even just starting out, we enjoy reviewing their products. When we were contacted by Lopalo Leather and learned about the man behind the scenes, we were pleasantly astounded. This is the first leather company BestLeather has had the pleasure of working with that is owned, operated, designed, and built by a 15 year old leather entrepreneur — Aidan Forsyth.
About
Established in 2014, Lopalo leather began after Aidan made his own wallet because his store-bought wallet had fallen apart. Here is Aidan’s description of his business foundation, “Quickly family and friends wanted wallets and I turned it into a business. I do custom orders regularly in addition to making the designs I have on my site.” Based out of Albany, New York, Aidan uses only USA made materials in his wallet making business. His business is rapidly growing, and he plans on adding several new products and accessories to his website. So, be sure to follow Lopalo Leather throughout this leather journey, and contribute as much as you can. Whether that is advice, ideas, or the purchase of a leather wallet, following a young company like this is always a good thing.
Construction
The Bi Fold Card Holder is made with Horween’s Chromexcel leather. The cardholder is 100% handmade, so Aidan himself saddle stitches all of his products. He has an excellent visual representation of what that means on his website. Check it out here. Basically, by using the saddle stitch, the lifetime of the product is greatly increased. If one stitch breaks, the product can still live on comfortably. If a stitch broke on a normal machine stitch, the product’s construction is compromised, and will not last much longer.
The Card Holder is extremely simple. With just two sleeves on the inside for storage, the wallet’s construction is very minimalistic, yet provides adept space for plenty of cards and bills. With this card holder’s minimalist design, you don’t need to sacrifice space for slimness.
Function
There is not much difference in functionality from card holder to card holder. Each one’s purpose is to hold your cards and information, and most of them do it well. The Lopalo Bi Fold Card Holder is a complete example of flawless performance. I have used this product for a solid 10 days and enjoyed every minute of it. At the beginning of its use, the inside pockets were a little tight and stiff, but after using it several times, they have loosened up effectively. I carry on average 7 cards in this wallet, with an occasional bill here and there. The sleeves are certainly not over filled, allowing ample space for those surprise bills.
Here is Aidan’s description of his Bi Fold cardholder: “This minimalistic Bi Fold Card Holder is perfect for someone who wants to carry around their credit cards and a few bills. After the handmade wallet is broken in, you will be able to fit in 3-5 cards on each side. On the front side, this wallet will develop a unique pull up. Each wallet is hand cut, stitched, and finished by me. With proper care, it will last you a lifetime.”
Looking great after about 10 days of full time use.
Aesthetic
I think I can safely say that Horween’s Chomexcel leather is ONE of my favorite types of leather. The Bi Fold Card Holder has a fantastic, graceful feel, and the thread color used contrasts seamlessly with the deep brown leather. Lopalo Leather also offers several colors of stitching for their products. White, Royal Blue, Cream, and Dark Green are all choices for the stitching, and judging from pictures I have seen, all are perfect contrast colors to the leather. Over time this cardholder will look better and better, and the one I have now has already started to build a beautiful patina.
Conclusion
When I first accepted the opportunity to review Lopalo Leather’s Bi Fold Cardholder, I was beyond enthusiastic. It’s not everyday you get to work with young people who enjoy the timeless and passion oriented leather industry like we do. I have been utterly impressed with Lopalo Leather and their products. At $37.50, this wallet is a steal for the quality you are receiving. As most of the leather companies know, networking is one of the greatest things you can do in the industry. So if you have any pointers, ideas, or just a word of encouragement, let Aidan Forsyth know. Head over to his website (http://www.lopaloleather.com/), snoop around, check out his high-quality products, anticipate new products, and contribute to a strong, full-of-potential young man and his leather business.
This time around we’re going to take a look at a very luxurious combination of leather products from J Michael Ashland – the Pocket Wallet and Brass Key Fob. These are the third and fourth pieces that I get the privilege of reviewing for J Michael Ashland. Be sure to check out his Steerhide Belt and his Mini Bifold Wallet reviews too.
About J Michael Ashland
J Michael Ashland is a designer and full time minimalist leather crafter. From his location in northwestern Oregon he designs and crafts all of his products 100% by hand – no power tools, no machines…at all. Currently J Michael is designing and making several types of belts, wallets, cardholders, and other accessories. And, he’s producing them at a very high quality level that you will immediately appreciate once you are able to touch, feel, see, and use his creations.
In J Michael’s own words: “cut from a hide by blade, marked with dividers, pricked with irons, skived, beveled, saddle stitched with needles, burnished by hand, and then finished with natural oils and Oregon beeswax.”
Construction
In keeping with his dedication to using only the best “ingredients” in his creations, the Pocket Wallet is made from Horween Chromexcel. The thread is Tiger thread, which is the same as what he uses on all of his belts, wallets, and key fobs. Tiger thread is thick, bonded, waved, and U.V. coated. It’s also unable to be used in machines. So, all of the stitching is done by hand. When you get your own wallet or belt from J Michael, take a look at the even stitching and the thickness of the thread. It’s very labor intensive and it will give you a greater appreciation for J Michael’s dedication to creating all of his products 100% by hand without the use of any machines.
When the wallet is opened up, facing you, you have one pocket on the right that’s made to carry frequently used cards. Underneath, folded cash. On the left – two pockets for cards. The pockets are a little taller to protect the magnetic strips and designed for the general preservation of the cards. Another nice feature is that J Michael has widened the bend/break area so that even when the wallet is full, it still lays flat.
The matching Brass Key Fob is made from with two types of leather – a thick slab of belt leather in the middle and is wrapped with pieces of Horween Chromexcel. It also includes the same thick, great looking stitching. The brass components are heavy duty and look as if they’ll last forever.
Function
Take about 90 seconds and watch this video. J Michael walks through several of the design elements of his Pocket Wallet in order to give you a solid grasp on its functionality and design.
The Pocket Wallet is an expertly designed piece. It’s clearly evident that much thought was put into the design, layout, and function-ability of it. In spite of its small footprint, it will carry a very large amount of cards and cash with ease. Currently it has 14 cards and seven pieces of paper currency in it. And, there’s room for more if needed. It’s also not a gigantic lump in my back pocket, it still measure under .75” (actually between .6” and .75”).
The Brass Key Fob is also a welcomed departure from many of the key fobs I’ve encountered in the past. My previous experience with key fobs always ends in irritation…because they aren’t long enough. I don’t want to clip my keys to my belt loop and walk around with them rattling away…it reminds me of Mr. Weise – the very kind, very fastidious janitor at my elementary school. He had a jingly set of keys attached to his belt loop that always gave him away…you could hear him coming before you ever saw him. The Brass Key Fob from J Michael is 7” overall, which allows you to clip it to your belt loop and have your keys rest silently in your pocket, which is PERFECT! The Key Fob is made with thick leather that at first is pretty stiff. However, within just a couple weeks of use, it has softened up nicely. However, it’s sturdy enough to assure you that it will not fall apart…ever.
Aesthetic
There are no surprises here…both of these pieces look fantastic. The black leather with black thread on the Pocket Wallet looks fabulous. The same holds true with the Key Fob. Both sport J Michael’s logo and signature sailing vessel placed in tasteful locations. As these pieces wear over time they will continue to look great. Both pieces are also available brown and the Pocket Wallet is also available in an attractive natural color.
Conclusion
At $100 the Pocket Wallet is a bit more expensive than many of the wallets we have reviewed so far. However, its price is not out of line either given the nature of its design and construction. The J Michael Ashland Pocket Wallet is built to last for decades. If there was ever a Buy It For Life wallet, this is it. The Brass Key Fob is an excellent add-on, which will serve you well while looking great, and at $30 is a bargain in my opinion.
Also, be sure to enter the giveaway that we’re hosting – it’s free to enter and you’ll win three terrific leather products from J Michael Ashland.
Wallets are the perfect introductory leather piece. They are reasonably priced, easily customized, and vary with hundreds of styles and materials. Buying a leather wallet for the first time, or before dropping a large sum on a bag, allows potential leather connoisseurs to experience leather, decide what they do and don’t like, and base future leather endeavors off of a small, reasonable, and practical purchase. Believe it or not, the BestLeather staff still enjoys reviewing leather wallets – especially when they’re really good ones. The J Michael Ashland Mini Leather Bifold Wallet is an ideal example of a classic, timeless design with a few great tweaks.
About
J Michael Ashland is a father, designer, and minimalist leather worker. If there is one thing that sets him apart from his competitors, it’s the fact that he uses no power tools. You’d think his operation would be based out of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania (Amish country for those of you who aren’t aware). But actually he is a fellow Oregonian with a passion for traditional leather working. He has designed and built several production items to assist him in his by-hand leather business.
Construction
The Mini Leather Bifold is constructed using supple brown Horween Chromexcel leather and Tiger thread. Tiger thread is regarded as one of the best threads for hand stitching because it is bonded, waxed, UV coated, and not suitable for machine use. J Michael, and many others, believe this method is the finest for quality leather goods, and his products have yet to prove him wrong. He chose to leave a little room in his wallet construction, allowing for maximum storage yet keeping the wallet’s lean imprint. The two inside sleeves have plenty of space for storing your essential cards. However, with the minimalist in mind, the mini wallet is significantly slimmer than the regular J Michael Bifold Wallet, the big brother to the Mini Bifold.
Function
The J Michael Ashland Mini Bifold was purposely designed to be a do-it-all wallet. J Michael has provided me with a few comments on the function and build of his product: “To minimize the size by one inch, the cards are horizontal. The right pocket holds five cards, and the other side may hold two. The leather is flexible and the pockets are purposely a little wider and taller. For people who enjoy flat cash/minimal carry this might be a good option.”
I enjoy wallets with refined, sleek construction. The Mini Bifold is 3.25” x 4.125,” the perfect size for use in a front or rear pocket. I typically keep it in my back pocket simply due to the amount of cards I carry. Someone who doesn’t carry as much as I do will have no problem placing it in their front pocket comfortably.
On a regular basis I carry my driver’s license, military ID, two debit cards, a rewards card, a gift card, and time card for work, as well as any cash I happen to have. The wallet performs seamlessly, and every time I pull it out in front of someone, they comment on its beauty and modern appeal.
Aesthetic
Showing off my leather products is always fun. I have received numerous compliments on various leather goods I currently own, but the J Michael Ashland Mini Bifold has broken records in terms of comments and admiration. It is safe to say this wallet is incredibly appealing to men of all ages. It is obvious that a lot of time and passion went it to the making of this wallet. It is a classic build that offers great storage, a slim design, and a lovely shade of brown. The Tiger thread contrasts attractively with Horween’s brown leather. The wallet comes in this brown color as well as an all black version, which is just as stunning.
Shot w/ my iPhone – shows the wallet lighter than it actually is. Looking good after about 8 weeks of use though!
Conclusion
I have been able to use my Mini Bifold for quite some time now. I appreciate every single thing about it and look forward to watching how it ages and holds up. If you are in the market for a classic, timeless wallet design, and want to support a 100% handmade in the USA leather operation, the J Michael Ashland Mini Bifold Wallet is a perfect piece. Priced at $60.00, the wallet is a bargain. Head over to J Michael’s website to check out his other high-quality products, and don’t forget to participate in the J Michael Ashland Giveaway – you might score a nice package of goods worth $235!
You were recently introduced to the Holdster Model 01, the first of the awesome koozies for all you drinkers out there – amateur or professional, alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Well in case you thought to yourself, “Man, I could really use a bigger drink,” there’s a Holdster especially made for you. Introducing the Holdster Model 05: XL Holdster.
CONSTRUCTION
The Holdster Model 05 is the big brother of the Holdster Model 01. This big hunk of leather and glass is made of the same single piece of thick full-grain vegetable-tanned leather from Hermann Oak or Chahin Tannery in the 01 and still designed to fit perfectly around a Ball or Mason jar. This model design uses bombproof copper rivets instead of nylon stitching to close the ends. The result is a super strong closure ready to withstand the strongest grip. I wouldn’t test the “bombproof”-ness of the koozie though. After all, the glass will shatter before you can really test the leather. The brand logo is similarly debossed at the bottom of the koozie and absolutely every piece of this product, including the jar, is purchased and put together in the United States.
Passed the “sniff” test.
The XL next to its little brother, the Holdster Model 01
FUNCTION
Holdster = Koozie + Ball Jar. Only this time, the Ball jar is a whopping 24oz. That’s a pint and a half for you beer drinkers and 50% larger for you math folk. This means more drink and more fun for everyone. Once again, this Holdster doesn’t have to be used for drinking. Here’s some more ideas since the last review. Raise a Betta. Catch some frogs. Make instant ramen. Swap out the lid and make a soap dispenser. Make a scented candle. Use a bunch of them, put in some electrical wires and sockets, and make a hanging Holdster chandlier. Really, the possibilities are endless.
Easy to clean.
AESTHETIC
Although the cross stitching is my favorite design of the Holdster styles, the handmade copper rivets add a sense of toughness to this koozie which works well with the larger jar. That being said, the koozie is not perfectly smooth all around the jar because there has to be some overlap of the leather by design to rivet it together. The step-off is significantly reduced by the fact that the overlapped leather portion is tapered down. It is still a handsome holder by any means which will make its owner proud.
BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION
The Holdster Model 05: XL Holdster is $34.99 on the HoldsterUSA website. Environmentally friendly, made in the USA, full-grain leather, copper, and glass wrapped around your favorite drink. What’s not to love?
There are those occasions when you need a big bag – a really big bag. Now, you could certainly just go out and buy a nylon or cotton behemoth, which will easily get the job done. But, what if you plan on carrying this big bag for a long time and want to do it in style? Well, you stumble onto the vast array of leather bags. And, when you do you find that there are a myriad of bag makers and bags that come in every size, shape, and style. But, if you’re looking for a large briefcase, it narrows the options down quickly. One of those large briefcase/messenger bag manufacturers is LederMann.
About LederMann
Since 2002 LederMann has been making high quality products using full grain leather, old world craftsmanship, and strict quality control. The result are bags, briefcases, travel bags, and backpacks designed to be durable, serve you well, and stand the test of time.
Construction
The LederMann Extra Large 18” Vintage Chestnut Belting Leather Briefcase is a beast – both in name and stature. It definitely lives up to its ‘extra large’ name. The body of this chestnut colored bag (also available in black) is made from 4-5 oz. full grain leather while the flaps and shoulder strap are 7-8 oz. in thickness. There are a lot of big pieces of leather sewn up in this bag. The precision stitching is comprised of heavy duty nylon thread while the interior of the bag is swathed in suede. Hardware is all brass and the stress points are reinforced with machine pressed heavy duty rivets.
Function
Everything about this bag is big. And, if you’re looking for a big that then you’ll be happy about that for sure. Spacious is the most accurate description of this bag, which is 18″W X 13″H X 7″D and has two inner compartments measured at 3.5″ each compartment. It affords plenty of room for a laptop (or two) of any size, your Xbox, games, and controllers (know this one by experience from my son), books, accessories, and clothes.
There is a large slip pocket that runs the length of the back, suitable for a newspaper, magazine, or notepad (even a legal sized pad). The handle is thick and sturdy. The shoulder strap is wide and easy to adjust. It features two large, well-padded shoulder pads which is excellent for carrying heavy loads in traditional briefcase form or in backpack form.
That’s right – this thing converts into a backpack using a traditional three point connection system. The strap easily comes apart and allows quick transition into shoulder straps. Again, the shoulder pads work very well in this arrangement. As an 18” bag, when loaded having the ability to carry this bag in backpack mode is a very nice feature.
If you are looking for a bag to carry a fully equipped office with you – this is it. Need a bag to carry your basic office needs and your needs for a night or two? This is it. It’s big, but it’s versatile.
It will test you though. Empty this bag weighs in at around approximately 8 pounds. When you load it up, it’s going to require some effort to transport it. But, its size also lends itself to staying in proportion with people of larger stature too. At 6’5” tall, this bag fits my middle son and me well. As a backpack or a messenger it doesn’t look out of place. As a combination office and overnight bag, it’s ideal because it will easily accommodate our larger clothes.
Aesthetic
The classic lines of this bag make it very attractive. The gussets, fine leather, heavy duty hardware all combine to create an elegant, classic look. It’s just bigger than most of the other bags in this style that you’ve seen in the past.
The leather has a high gloss, waxy finish to it and looks very attractive. It certainly garners attention when you set it down at a meeting. It can’t help but be noticed.
Conclusion
I recently read an article about a gentleman who spent one year traveling the world with everything he needed safely tucked into a 26 liter backpack. If you’re thinking of doing the same thing, this backpack is slightly larger than that and fully capable of serving you in the same capacity…and it will look much better than a nylon bag! I look forward to seeing how this bag ages and performs as time goes on. It was a little rigid right out of the box, but with limited use over the past six weeks or so it has already softened up. It’s a well made bag and should withstand the rigors of daily use without issue for decades. The $445 price tag for the LederMann Extra Large 18” Vintage Chestnut Belting Leather Briefcase is substantial – but so is the bag. And, it’s a multipurpose bag that you’ll be able to use and enjoy the rest of your life.
