World Leather Day

We owe so much to this wonderful material and all that it has offered us, and people able to pass it down from generation to generation. Some argue that leather as a premium material gatekeeps a social culture behind gear elitism, and I used to think that too, but I think Leather is as much an attitude, a spirit of what the material embodies, and you need a whole lot less than you think to participate.

When I started off, I struggled with ill-fitting hand-me-downs and not matching what I saw in the mirror with my developing self-image. What changed all of that for me was a set of Chippewa Baden trooper boots that I obtained off Second Skin from a Finnish gentleman. Once I fitted those boots on, my step took a confident stride forward, and I've been stomping along in those boots ever since. For you, that piece of gear might be different, but take your time to find what gives you that confidence.

There are many pathways to getting into leather, and it doesn't have to start with premium gear. It can be difficult to believe this when you're browsing online and surrounded by photoshoot-perfect models in head-to-toe Langlitz, but the more you can focus on what makes you personally happy, the more opportunities you'll find. Something vintage, second-hand, or gifted can be a great start. Leathercare is a whole journey of its own – getting something less than perfect and caring for it can be a huge reward, and I've learned to repair and perfect my second-hand gear. My biggest kick was when my €20 gear-sale pants, after some care and repair, elicited an "is that RoB?" response.

Some invest in retail therapy, or expensive holidays, or vinyl collections. Then there are those of us who choose to invest in leather, and this is a lifelong journey. It might seem daunting connecting with people who have dozens of leather garments and super-premium custom fitting gear, and you may even feel resentment towards them (oh, easy for them, they're loaded!). However, remember that once you feel good in what you're wearing, that's what matters – you can start small and build and refine through the years or as you come across pieces over time. Actually, I find it more rewarding to dream and save up for a nice piece than have everything on tap. Some of the most dissatisfied people I know are those who start off with everything, and endlessly chase that next piece, as their unworn gear continues to hoard up. You don't want that.

We have been blessed with the creations of fantastic craftspeople and artists who work tirelessly and often thanklessly to make our leather fantasies come true. Here's to some of the greats:

Those who have defined a culture – Langlitz, Wesco, Dehner, Mister S, Mr. B, RoB.

The small producers trailblazing with superb gear, like Monkey Sergeant, Leatherman Wil, and Montera.

Manufacturers like Mr Riegilio who have made space for more accessible leather gear, and while not always popular, here's to groups like Warsa who offer a path to made-to-measure gear on a more modest budget.

Unfortunately, social media has spawned many generic producers who seem make a living harassing folks with cold-calls on social media, misrepresenting their gear through stolen images and ripped-off designs, even cloining the likes of Leatherman Wil's leather duffel bag which is an embodiment of community spirit... 🖕

Whatever way you do leather, remember: You won't be remembered for the perfect combination of brands you wear. You'll be remembered for the impact you make and how you make others feel, and a lot of that is driven by the leather that makes you feel good. Find your own groove, and build your collection piece by piece. I recommend starting with a set of boots or a bar vest, but find what resonates with you. Enjoy your leather and treat it with love, and it will take care of you for a lifetime.