jueves 25 de marzo de 2010

Old Gringo Boots

Old Gringo Boots: Stylish and Timeless Fashion


Old Gringo Boots was specifically established with the mission and vision of designing and crafting western-style footwear using the best materials and tapping the creativity of the most skilled and experienced craftsmen. Boasting of a complicated 110-step process, every pair of boots is an excellent representative of “old school” vintage appeal and “modern” design sensibilities. Details such as hand stitching, embroidery, and manually attached Swarovski crystals attest to the massive amount of manhours put into every pair of boots. Crumpled, folded, and intentionally designed with excessive toe spring, even a new pair will feel like an old one that has served you well for years. By combining the intricate details with the vintage look, luxury has never been more comfortable or stylish than with Old Gringo Boots.


A boot, simply defined, is a type of protective footgear that covers the foot and a part or all of the leg and features a distinctive heel. It is traditionally made of leather or rubber because, traditionally, boots were meant to prevent the feet from getting dirt, water, mud, or snow on it. Through the years, boots have evolved to more specific functions. There are now specialty boots designed to protect steelworkers from being burned by drops or spatters of molten metal, or chemical workers from exposure to harmful chemicals like acids. These are usually lace-ups, while traditional cowboy boots do not have any lacing. Boots are now also a fashion item, and this is where Old Gringo Boots have distinguished itself as one of the best boot manufacturing company in the world.


Hand-crafted, stylish, cutting-edge, traditional, and timeless-the merging of all these qualities, and more, require that the company implement very strict standards, from their design and materials to their assembly and finishes. Unlike other cowboy boot manufacturers who purchase their primary material, leather, from independent suppliers, the company proudly produces and tans its own leather products. This allows them to create textures, colors, and finishes distinct from those of their competitors. This quality translates to pair of boots that may be more expensive than other boots.


These, however, are no ordinary boots. They can be possibly described as “statement footwear,” because wearing these means making a statement about who you are and what you value in life. There is a wide variety of styles being introduced every year by the company, each with their own unique twist to the classic cowboy boots. But no matter what style you choose, the message you send will be the same.


Purchasing a pair of Old Gringo Boots means that one is not easily susceptible to passing trends or fads. It means an appreciation for an elegant work of art that transcends fickle minds, time, and even location, for that is what this boot essentially is---a work of art that can be treasured, yet still be worn and seen. Through the years, boots of all colors, materials, and variations have come and gone as dictated by the fashion trends during a particular time. Old Gringo Boots have, and will, stand the test of time

Minnetonka Moccasins

The Varied Hues of Minnetonka Moccasins


The moccasin is a soft leather slipper worn by North American Indians. There are two types of moccasins. Hard sole moccasins were more used in the Southeast cultural regions and the Eastern woodlands. Traditionally, the hard sole type was crafted by sewing a rawhide sole to a leather upper using sinew thread. Soft sole moccasins, on the other hand, were used in the Plains area and consist of one whole soft leather piece with a seam at the heel and the instep.


Regardless of the type, Minnetonka Moccasins offer high quality moccasins that are now enjoying widespread popularity owing to the return of the Bohemian trend, which highlight materials and designs like suede, fringes, beadings, tassels, and even feathers, among other embellishments. Since its founding in 1946, Minnetonka has prided itself in creating comfortable but stylish footwear, following their mission of providing its clients with footwear that will keep their feet safe and warm. From the more traditional neutrals like black, brown, and tan, the company has moved on toward more fashion-forward colors such as storm blue, pink, red, light blue, navy, and frost, among many others. Whatever your color preference, you can be sure there is a Minnetonka Moccasin to suit your taste. Actresses like Lindsay Lohan and Blake Lively, from the hugely popular series Gossip Girl, as well as British supermodel Kate Moss have been snapped walking around with Minnetonka Moccasins on their feet.


Symbolic decorations such as porcupine quills and glass beads, which were incorporated into the shoe when the Europeans came, are an important part of moccasin designs. In fact, the value placed on moccasins was so high that it was used in important rituals. The Iroquois adoption ceremony for example uses a special Iroquois moccasin to signify that the new wearer will devote himself or herself to Iroquois way of life.


A distinctive feature of moccasins is that regardless of the sole, it allows the wearer to feel the ground while walking. Today, this feature makes the moccasin ideal as a driving shoe. Unique and expertly crafted, Minnetonka Moccasins are back on the fashion horizon and are definitely here to stay. Worn with jeans, shorts, or capris, even skirts, these shoes can be relied on to provide comfort without sacrificing style. The varying designs, from simple one-bow styles to those with various adornments such as fringes, beads, buttons, and beading means there is a moccasin just right for you and your mood.


Minnetonka Moccasins are offered in diverse materials such as suede, leathers, and other skins. Those made in moose hide, for example, are unique because they become softer the longer they are worn, making for the perfect shoes to wear when you want to be comfortable and give your feet some pampering. Considered classic American footwear, moccasins provided comfort and protection to early Native Americans. Now in the 21st century, this tradition continues with Minnetonka Moccasins leading the way, making sure that moccasins carry on providing the same, if not better, level of comfort and functionality with a modern dose of style and chic.

John Deere Boots

John Deere Boots For The Next Generation


More than just looking cute, children’s boots also provide children sufficient protection from various hazards and the elements. John Deere Boots, a company that has seen over 160 years of history, is one of the best known and trusted brands in the US. It was named after John Deere, an American blacksmith and inventor who went on to build the biggest agricultural and construction equipment manufacturing company in the world. Deere prided himself in making only high-quality equipment. He was once quoted saying, I will never out my name in a product that does not have in it the best that is in me.”


With such a principle guiding the company’s production, you can be assured that only the best and safest product is on the feet of your most precious child. Adult boots and children boots alike, quality and design is never compromised.


One great thing about kids’ John Deere Boots is that a design is available in all possible sizes, from newborn (wouldn’t that be too cute?), to toddlers, child, and youth. Variety in style, color, and design is endless. As a parent, you will be sure to find a style that is tight for your kid’s needs and even personality. Regardless of how active the child is, John Deere footwear are guaranteed to keep up with their play, giving the comfort and protection kids needs and parents value. Sizing is an important issue when choosing a child’s boots (or any type of shoe for that matter). The sizing for John Deere Boots is very issue to understand and figure out: T = Toddlers; C= Children; and Y= Youth.


Sturdiness should also be carefully considered. Active or rough play can damage a low-quality boot, thus reducing the protection it provides its wearer---your child. You don’t’ want your child going home with one boot missing its sole, do you? Check also if it is waterproof and easy to clean. Children are children, and they will play wherever and whenever, in mud puddles, out in the snow, while its raining, in the dirt. John Deere Boots carry all these features and much, much more. Its boots have a lining which stops cold air from penetrating the feet. Thus, the feet are well insulated and your little one will not get cold.


Just like adult boots, children’s boot come in a wide range of styles. Pull on Rubber boots, for example, are those which the child can simply insert his or her already shoe-clad feet into. There are also puffy boots, which many children consider their favorite. Rubber boots provide versatility in terms of colors and designs. The plastic boot offers this feature also. Picking out a design is a good way of involving the child in the purchasing decision. Cowboy boots for children, on the other hand, are a great way for them to make a fashion statement. Many children in the Youth “category” are fans of John Deere Boots because of the varied selection it offers. Remember that children outgrow their footwear very fast. Get a John Deere boot, and you are assured of high quality with reasonable price.

Western Gun Holsters

Western Gun Holsters: The Best of the Best




Owning a gun is an enormous responsibility. Any equipment used to care for a gun and its owner should therefore have the right kind of safety, comfort, and durability to guarantee that the gun is used only as it is intended by the owner and nothing else. Below is an overview of Western Gun holsters that combine, style, price, and quality which you can use as a guide for choosing and purchasing the right gun holster for you.


For those looking to buy a shoulder holster, Western Gun holsters have a heavy black leather shoulder holster for just $29.99. Coming in at just 1.00 lbs, this holster has a faux fur lining to protect your gun from rubbing. It can accommodate calibers and lengths as varied as 38/357 cal. long and 380 cal. to 9 and 10 MM. This is a good holster for concealment. This type of holster requires the gun owner to be wearing a jacket or vest when it is in use. This is in order to hide the strap harness and the holster from others.


A relatively more pricey option from Western gun holsters is a Western-Style Cowboy holster currently being sold for $39.99 (gun belt not included). Made from expertly handcrafted genuine leather, this very durable gun holster comes in black and brown. It will fit 22, 38, 357, 44, and 45 caliber guns and hold up to a 9" barrel. It comes with a tie down strap which can be used to wrap around your leg and prevent the gun from moving around, thus enhancing safety. Since it does not come with its own gun belt you have more freedom to “stylize” it by using your own choice of belts.


A discussion about gun holsters will not be complete without the iconic outside the waistband (OWB) or belt holsters. These are the most common holsters used by the police and the military, and are the ones commonly associated with Wild West movies. This type of gun holster can be worn either high and close to the body or a little way behind the hip bone (4 o’ clock position). Western Gun holsters have a 22 caliber gun holster priced at just $79.99, a great price considering that it is handcrafted from the best quality leather. It comes in black and brown colors. An adjustable trigger strap and the ability to mold allow it to fit any model 22 caliber gun. The belt holds about 24 rounds of ammo (which changes depending on the wearer’s belt size. Re-enactment enthusiasts and single action shooter competitors cite this type as their favorite. A variation of the OWB holster is the double holster gun belt which is priced as $119.99.


Regardless of the type of Western Gun holsters you choose, remember that safety is very important. The holster you purchase must ensure protection to the gun during insertion or removal from the holster, as well as when it is being carried. This means it must be engineered to prevent accidental disengagement of the safety mechanism, accidental pull of the trigger, and movement of the hammer.

Kids Cowboy Hats

Kids Cowboy Hats: More than Just a Costume


The cowboy hat is the single most defining item in a cowboy’s (or wannabe cowboy’s) ensemble. A broad-brimmed hat with a hat crown whose original function was to protect its wearers from the sun and the rain, cowboy hat design through the years was influenced by the very region where its wearers originated. Designs and features became so distinctive that long ago, two cowboys can meet and tell from each other’s cowboy hats where the other comes from just by looking at the crease. This is probably why people think cowboy hats that are creased have more “character.”


Kids’ cowboy hats are very popular for two major reasons. One, they are used as costumes by kids who want to pretend they are cowboys (or cowgirls). The Toy Story franchise has also led to a resurgence of the popularity of kids’ cowboy hats, what with kids wanting to dress up like Woody or Jessie. A cowboy hat, so to speak, makes the costume. Without it, you do not look like a cowboy. Halloween, Western-style theme parties, and other celebrations are great times to dress up like a cowboy and don a cowboy hat. One great thing about the “costume” cowboy hat is that, if it is made from good material, its use can extend beyond the costume event and to more practical uses for your kind. An outing is a good venue for using the cowboy hat. The wider brim offers more protection from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.


The second reason is a more serious one. As mentioned in the first paragraph, the cowboy hat is the fashion epitome of what a cowboy is. For many kids trying to learn who they are, the cowboy hat is part of their identity. Those who live in the West, or who are fascinated with the rodeo, with country music, or who were born to parents who wear cowboy hats themselves, almost always want a cowboy hat to reinforce their identity. They wear it in their everyday life, to school to parties, and not just occasions or events that call for a costume.


Kids’ cowboy hats, just like the adult versions, can be made from many kinds of materials, like felt, canvas, leather, and straw. Straw hats are very durable, and can even be used as a fan during hot summer days. While the usual colors of brown, black, grey, and beige still enjoy immense popularity, kids’ cowboy hats are now offered in all colors of the spectrum, even bright pink and citrus hues. These hats also provide a great platform for showing a young wearer’s individuality. Embellishments such as feather, ribbons, sequins, appliqués, stitching, and various others can be added on to the hats.


Since kids head sizes change quite fast, kids cowboys hat regularly have a form-fitting stretch band to ensure good fit for any age. An adjustable chin strap also helps the hat stay in place.


The cowboy era has is probably no more, but cowboy fashion, represented by kids’ cowboy hats is definitely here to stay, be it as a costume, or as part of daily wear.

Twisted X Boots

Twisted X Boots On The Rise




Indeed, being in this business is all about making a better boot for the customer. This is the mission and vision of Twisted X Boots, a newcomer in the world of boot manufacturing that is slowly establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with. The company devotes considerable time and effort in the initial stage of production, which is the design and development stage. Once the design is finalized, the newest technology, best quality materials, innovative tanning processes, and even tried and tested manufacturing techniques combine to create a shoe that both its manufacturer (and owners) can truly be proud of. Below are some of the innovations that Twisted X Boots has incorporated into their line of footwear.


* XSD Insole – This is a one-piece insole with an injected composite X shank that helps achieve maximum stability. This innovation prevents the wearer from twisting an ankle or losing their balance. The patent for this technology is pending


* SD Footbed – This has antibacterial and moisture wicking properties. It is also machine washable. Such features keep the feet from developing strong odors as well as add cushioning to lessen impact on the feet.


* Midsole - Rubber – This feature helps add bounce to the wearer’s step. The benefits become evident at the end of a long day standing or walking, when you realize your legs are less tired than they usually are wearing other types of footwear or boots.


* Attached Heel – Men’s footwear have a long base heel at 4" while the women’s footwear have a 3.5” one. This allows for a better grip. Moreover, the rubber heel absorbs most of the shock of landing the foot on the ground.


* 50K Outsole – This genuine super slab rubber also helps add more bounce to the wearer’s step. Good traction on the ground surface is also achieved. At the end of a tiring day, your legs will not feel as fatigued compared to when other boots are worn.)


All the above come together in the creation of both traditional and authentic-looking western, cowboy, and work boots. The technology it uses makes for lightweight, breathable, durable, and comfortable footwear. Preciseness also defines Twisted X Boots. All its last measurements are the same from ball to heel regardless of the shoe. An innovation which the company is gaining renown for is its use of an insole board featuring an injected composite shank. Even if it is the so-called new kid on the block, Twisted X Boots is already committed to continue looking for groundbreaking technology and components that will help it create boots that provide superior comfort, style, and workmanship.


What separates Twisted X boots from other manufacturers is that they are “cowboys making cowboy boots,” not merely a regular shoe manufacturer producing cowboy boots. Depending on your style and budget, Twisted X Work Boots have different collections which will surely fit your needs. The Gold Buckle Collection is for those who want leather outsoles than rubber outsoles on their boots. The Buckle Collection is called the “extreme cowboy boots” package. The Red Buckle Collection offers a more casual line. And finally, the Twisted X Work Boots offer the best work boots in the market today.

viernes 12 de febrero de 2010

Minnetonka Moccasins

Why People Value Their Minnetonka Moccasins


Aside from the clothes that people wear, one of the most noticed things is the footwear. Individuals would look at other from head to foot and assess whether they like the outfit or not. When they do, they will try to recreate the style and see if it looks good on them. Footwear is definitely something everyone takes into consideration. For example, when a person sees someone wearing Minnetonka moccasins, she may consider buying one or checking one. If she falls in love with this, there is no doubt that purchasing this footwear will follow.


People value their Minnetonka moccasins because they want to show everyone that this is special footwear to them. When you do not like the shoes that you have, there is that tendency that you do not take care of it properly. You allow it to become dirty and use it almost everyone. However, having favorite footwear can also give off the impression that even if you wear it almost all of the time, still you make sure to clean it after you use it. Maintaining its almost brand new look helps it have a longer life.


Just like the Minnetonka moccasins, everyone has their fair share of giving value to the shoes that they treasure the most. You just have to keep in mind that you are doing this for yourself and no one else. Although you can ask someone to clean the moccasins for you, it is still up to you to make sure that it retains its almost perfect image. Storing it in a safe place ensures that you will be able to use it and preserve its form.


Another reason why people give importance to their Minnetonka moccasins is that they want to make sure that it is worth every cent. Of course, you do not buy shoes or footwear just for the sake of being “in”. You purchase it because you like it and you are comfortable using it. Nevertheless, there are instances wherein you feel that your feet are about to come off after some time of using the new footwear. This means that you still have to “break-in” into the shoes. This is the only way on introducing the shoes to your feet. Once your feet are able to “break-into” the shoes, you would not have a hard time wearing it for a longer time.


Whether it is your Minnetonka moccasins or any other footwear, you still have to take good care of it. You want to maximize its lifespan to make you get your money’s worth. However, keep in mind too that it is your responsibility to ensure that you purchase the right footwear to avoid wasting your time, effort and money in buying the wrong one. Think of it a couple of times before purchasing your desired footwear so that you would avoid the hassle of exchanging the item. There are stores that do not allow item exchange so it is best that you decide wisely and be happy with it.