I’ve made it a habit to buy American when I can. In fact, I guess you could say that I go out of my way to do so… and not for political reasons, but for reasons of pride. Through those efforts I’ve found that many American made objects aren’t simply “better” or of higher quality, but just more expensive than their foreign made counterparts. And then, there are the goods that are really MADE in America with obvious pride and craftsmanship. When I find these goods, I’m a customer for life.
Need to smuggle some black tar heroin across the Canadian border? No sweat… Choose Barrett Alley!
Yeah, I know… They are expensive, but dammit – they are made in the USA and they are Levi’s. A pair was recently gifted to me and I have to say, they are worth every bit of $200. There is something so reminiscent about raw shrink-to-fit denim. Magical.
An old school brand that never lost sight of their original goals and values… Bags, clothing, and other shit. It all rules.
When 5.11 Tactical approached me about doing a review of some of their products, I was pretty fired up. I’ve always loved their bags and packs and couldn’t wait to get my hands on their offerings. So, I was pretty let down when I learned I was actually going to be reviewing their “Taclite Pro Vest” and their “Taclite Pro Pant.”
I know… I know… Flip flops? Buy hey, at least they are hand made and supposedly durable as all hell.
So a pal of mine is a big time writer in New York City for a big time men’s magazine. It ain’t GQ, but it might as well be. He mostly writes about senseless stuff such as style and fashion, but every now and then he hits a tune that my ears can comprehend. Just this last week, it was Hamilton 1883 shirts.
What are Hamilton 1883 shirts all about? They are 100% American made button downs that cost a small fortune, but last a lifetime. Admittedly, I only own one shirt from the Houston based taylor, but I’ve owned and worn it since 1999. If you are doing a cost analysis, your calculator will tell ya that the shirt has cost me about $18 a year… and that number is getting smaller.
There is something to be said for quality… even if it meshes with fashion.
I know a lot of you fellas out there work with your hands – either by trade or by hobby. A lost tool to many of you is the shop apron. If you’ve never used one, you would have a hard time imagining their usability. It’s about more than keeping your shirt and pants clean. It’s about having a platform to work from. You should try it out… And if you do, you might as well use the best aprons in the world.
