We start with 100% vegetable tanned horsehide leather from Horween. These are strips cut from just above the "shell" of the horse (where shell cordovan comes from). Although this leather is thinner than most single layer belts, this horsehide is extremely dense and has almost no stretch to it. This unique thinner, stronger leather makes for a durable, long lasting belt without the bulk of a heavier belt.

We're keeping the leather natural on these, which means they'll start out a light brown and will age to a beautiful golden brown over time as they pick up oils and color from wear. We pay special attention to the finish as we do on all our products. The strap is edged, burnished with beeswax, and finished with a traditional English point. We use a custom-made solid brass center bar buckle that gets tumbled to subtly tarnish the nickel finish. It’s secured with two solid rivets, and the back of the belt is stamped with both a Gustin and a Horween stamp.