Portfolio

One thing about us leathermen - we like our gear to fit well. There is nothing like seeing a leathermen who not only looks comfortable in his gear, but also seeing the gear fit his body well. However, unless you have bought your jeans bespoke and made to measure, it is more than likely [...]

Guest writer Tom Bluf has a passion for leather and in particular a passion for Perfecto jackets. These amazing jackets are the epitome of the classic leather biker look, made famous by of course, Marlon Brando in the film The Wild One. In this entry to The Manual Tom explains what you need to know [...]

In this article, Mr. Leather Europe 2015, Thorsten Buhl, explains what you need to know about how leather is made - the tanning process, the different types of leather and what to look out for. All essential knowledge for any leatherman. Leather comes from the skins and hides of animals and tanning is the [...]

Renowned throughout the world for its high standards, BLUF remains the ultimate symbol of the classic leatherman. The Breeches and Leather Uniform Fanclub (BLUF) started in 1997 for leathermen who wore and admired breeches and leather uniforms. For many, the BLUF look is like a Tom of Finland drawing realised. BLUF has a [...]

An essential for any leatherman is a pair of tall boots. Some of the most sort after brands are Wescos, Dehner and Chippewa. There are many good guides online for measuring yourself and we would advise guys to check the company’s website for the brand they are interested in for more specific instructions. Wesco Boots [...]

Sometimes the ‘full works’ just isn’t appropriate or not needed. That’s when Leather Lite comes in. As much as we love leather, it is an unforgiving material when it comes to heat and staying cool. When the temperature rises (no, not in that way!) a full leather outfit can become stifling and on occasions, [...]

Getting the desired military standard "mirror polish" on your boots takes a bit of time and effort, says guest contributor Pup Handler. 1. Firstly it's important to use the right polish. Kiwi works best for me because of its high wax content. There's also Parade Gloss (again by Kiwi), but be warned that it also contains paraffin which will [...]

Ever since we first published this short piece of advice in 2013, we have had more comments and debate over it than anything else! We originally wrote: A Sam Browne belt is worn so that it crosses over the right shoulder and is fastened on the left handside of the body. Sam Browne was [...]

If you're going for the leather uniform look, never mix chrome and brass. For example, if you have brass studs and belt buckle on your jacket, do not use a chrome belt buckle on your jeans. The same should go for cap badges - chrome or silver ones for outfits trimmed with chrome fastenings. However, [...]

An Investment Leather is an investment. And your leather can last for your lifetime. Prevention is better than cure. So regularly give any item of your leather gear the proper treatment: clean, rub, condition, buff, air and store away. Make sure any product you use is suitable for the type and grain of leather you're applying it to: check [...]