I always get excited when I announce a new partner, and Jacob Hill Leather is a company that I’ve had my eye on for quite some time. We’ll dig deep into the company in an upcoming post, but for now: if you believe that true style lies in the details—even down to what sits at your waist—then Jacob Hill Leather is doing something worth paying attention to.
Based in Gastonia, NC, they craft exotic (not embossed) skins like American alligator, matte caiman, lizard and python, and turn them into belts and wallets that feel like tools built for a lifetime. Each piece is cut to fit and ships quickly, but the wear, the texture and the patina that follow aren’t rushed. It’s a rare blend of hand-made execution with an elevated finish—a piece that looks at home under a field jacket or holding up wool trousers, and still honors the ethos of “buy less, buy better.”
I was looking for an everyday belt, and pulled the trigger on their matte crocodile option, as it will fit that 80% wear category that is so important. Everything is customizable…including length (an easy measurement – clearly described in the order form), the stitching, the buckle, the width, etc. I made my picks and placed the order, and it arrived two weeks later:
The belt is as nice or nicer than any exotic belt that I own. It feels significant, well-constructed, and elevated.
The intent of this belt is to utilize an old Colonel Littleton buckle that has been sitting in my drawer for quite some time. I love this buckle, and it needs to see the light of day. However, it needed some serious polishing…
After a good rub-down, I added the buckle via the snaps (nice touch…):
…and DISCO:
Immediate add to the rotation. Excited to put this bad boy to WORK.
Check out the entire Jacob Hill collection here. I think you’ll like what you see.
