LEATHER QUALITY & CONSTRUCTION
Q: What is full-grain leather and why is it better?
A: Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather available, using the complete top layer of the hide with all natural grain intact. Unlike corrected or split leather, full-grain shows the hide's natural markings, pores, and character. It's the strongest, most durable layer that develops beautiful patina over time. This is why all our products use exclusively full-grain leather construction.
Q: What's the difference between full-grain, top-grain, and genuine leather?
A:Full-grain(what we use) - Complete top layer, strongest and most durable, develops patina.Top-grain- Sanded surface removes some natural grain, weaker than full-grain.Genuine leather- Lower quality split leather, often heavily processed. We only use full-grain because it's the only grade that truly lasts generations.
Q: How are your leather goods made?
A: Each piece is handcrafted using traditional techniques. We hand-cut patterns from full-grain leather hides, then hand-stitch using saddle stitching methods. No machines do the critical work - every wallet, belt, and accessory is shaped, stitched, and finished by skilled craftsmen using time-honored techniques.
Q: What is saddle stitching and why do you use it?
A: Saddle stitching is a traditional hand-stitching technique where two needles work from opposite sides of the leather, creating an incredibly strong lock-stitch. Unlike machine stitching (which uses one thread that can unravel), saddle stitching uses two threads that lock together. If one thread breaks, the rest of the stitching remains intact. This technique has been used for centuries because it's the strongest, most durable way to join leather.
Q: Why does hand-stitching matter compared to machine stitching?
A: Hand saddle-stitching creates a stronger, more durable seam than machine stitching. Machine stitching uses one continuous thread - if it breaks anywhere, the entire seam can unravel. Hand saddle-stitching uses two separate threads that lock together at each stitch point, so even if damaged, the rest remains secure. It also allows for better tension control and follows the leather's natural contours.
Q: What does "vegetable-tanned" mean?
A: Vegetable tanning uses natural tannins from tree bark, leaves, and other plant materials to preserve the leather. This ancient process takes much longer than chemical tanning but creates leather that ages beautifully, develops rich patina, and is environmentally friendly. Our Horween Dublin and Le Bretagne leathers are vegetable-tanned using traditional methods.
Q: How long does it take to make one of your wallets?
A: Each wallet requires several hours of skilled handwork. The process includes pattern cutting, edge preparation, hand saddle-stitching (which can take 3-4 hours alone), and final inspection. Rush jobs compromise quality, so we take the time needed to ensure each piece meets our standards.
Q: Why do you use thick leather instead of thin leather?
A: Thick, full-grain leather provides superior durability and structure. While thin leather might feel more flexible initially, it lacks the strength for daily use and won't maintain its shape over time. Our thick leather construction ensures your wallet or belt will last decades while developing character, not wearing out.
Our Leathers
Q: What makes Horween leather special?
A: Horween Leather Company has been America's premier tannery since 1905, using traditional techniques like hot-stuffing with oils and waxes. Their Chromexcel leather features the famous "pull-up" effect and develops beautiful patina over time. We use Horween Chromexcel, Dublin, and Shell Cordovan in our products.
Q: Why is Wild African Kudu leather so expensive and limited?
We will work quickly to ship your order as soon as possible. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information. Delivery times vary depending on your location.
What's the difference between your leather types?
A:Horween Chromexcel- Classic pull-up leather with rich oils, perfect for daily use.Horween Dublin- Rustic vegetable-tanned with natural waxes.Shell Cordovan- Premium horsehide with 6-month tanning process.Wild African Kudu- Exotic leather with unique natural markings.Le Bretagne- Italian vegetable-tanned, environmentally sustainable.
Product Care
Q: How do I care for my leather goods?
A: Use a quality leather conditioner every 3-6 months. Avoid water exposure when possible. If wet, let air dry naturally - never use heat. The natural oils in our leathers mean minimal maintenance is needed. Each piece will develop beautiful patina with age.
Q: Will my leather wallet/belt change color over time?
A: Yes! This is the beauty of full-grain leather. Our pieces develop rich patina and character over time, becoming more beautiful with age. Natural leather especially darkens and gains depth, telling the story of your adventures.
Q: Can I get my leather goods wet?
A: While our leather can handle some moisture, avoid prolonged water exposure. If wet, let air dry naturally. The oils and waxes in Horween leather provide some water resistance, but leather is a natural material that's best kept dry.
CUSTOMIZATION & ORDERING
Q: Do you offer custom engraving?
A: Yes! We offer custom engraving on most of our wallets, belts, and accessories. You can add initials to make your piece truly personal.
Q: How long does it take to make my order?
A: Most items ship within 3-5 weeks. Custom engraved pieces take an additional 2-3 days. Wild African Kudu products may take 6-10 weeks due to the handmade-to-order process and limited material availability.
Q: Can I choose different leather colors or stitching?
A: Many of our products offer customization options including leather type, stitching color, and hardware choices. Check individual product pages for available options or contact us for special requests.
CUSTOMIZATION & ORDERING
Q: Do you offer custom engraving?
A: Yes! We offer custom engraving on most of our wallets, belts, and accessories. You can add initials to make your piece truly personal.
Q: How long does it take to make my order?
A: Most items ship within 3-5 weeks. Custom engraved pieces take an additional 2-3 days. Wild African Kudu products may take 6-10 weeks due to the handmade-to-order process and limited material availability.
Q: Can I choose different leather colors or stitching?
A: Many of our products offer customization options including leather type, stitching color, and hardware choices. Check individual product pages for available options or contact us for special requests.
SIZING & FIT
Q: How do I know what size belt to order?
A: Order 2 inches larger than your pants waist size. For example, if you wear 34" pants, order a 36" belt. Our belts are measured from the buckle to the middle hole.
Q: Will my wallet fit in my front pocket?
A: Our Trekker Front Pocket Wallets are specifically designed to reduce bulk. Traditional bifolds like the Frontiersman work in both front and back pockets. Check product dimensions on each page.
Q: Do your watch straps fit my watch?
A: Our watch straps come in standard sizes (18mm, 20mm, 22mm, etc.). Check your current strap width or watch specifications. Most include quick-release spring bars for easy installation.
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, we ship worldwide from New Zealand. International shipping times vary by location. Customs duties may apply depending on your country.
Q: What's your return policy?
A: We offer 10-day returns (form time of receiving order) on unused items in original condition. Custom engraved items are final sale. Return shipping is customer's responsibility and refund will be in store credit unless the item is defective, then it's on us.
Q: How much does shipping cost?
A: Shipping costs vary by location and order size. We offer free shipping on orders over $150 USD. Express shipping options are available at checkout.
QUALITY & WARRANTY
Q: How long will my leather goods last?
A: Our full-grain leather construction and traditional techniques mean these pieces are built to last decades with proper care. Many customers pass them down as heirloom pieces. We offer a lifetime guarantee to fix any stitching defect at no extra cost than shipping.
Q: What if my product has a defect?
A: We stand behind our craftsmanship. If you receive a defective item, contact us immediately for replacement. Any lifetime stitching fixes will not cost you anything above shipping.
Q: Why are your products more expensive than mass-produced alternatives?
A: We use premium materials (Horween, Wild African Kudu), traditional hand-stitching techniques, and full-grain leather construction. These are heirloom-quality pieces designed to last generations, not disposable accessories.
