When burnishing, a rubbing force applied by the leather craftsman creates a heat and friction that ultimately results in a smooth finish that develops as the natural oils of the leather are pulled to the surface. This force mentioned is accomplished through good old fashion sweat labor. And let us tell you, it is a workout. But the end result is worth every bit of effort. If done on a full grain leather, the natural features of the leather become prevalent (especially the grains). And in quality leathers, the patina visibly displays the stories that hide has to tell. A finish, like not other. A finish that can't be manufactured, but instead is a true reflection of the struggles that hide endured along with the natural aging process and hence its natural beauty. Once applied to a finished product, that hide becomes ready to tell your story. Our leather products are designed to be handed down-- a generational gift rich with stories waiting to be told.
The tools of the trade-- That's it! We use Tokonole during the rubbing process which is a natural water-based, non-toxic treatment that helps preserve the natural color of the leather, while preventing further discoloration. We simply spread the solution on the unfinished side of the hide and begin rubbing.
A burnished side compared to the front side.
Natural finish vs. burnished finish.
The process of assembly.
Finished product.
Check out our All-Leather Pocket Portfolios with burnishing HERE.
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Afterpay allows you to purchase our products in four interest-free installments (due every two weeks). You'll pay your first installment at the time of purchase, and the remainder over time.
Afterpay is always zero interest, and as long as you pay on time, there are never additional fees. The only fees, EVER, are if you make a payment late. Afterpay will email your payment schedule and send notifications so you'll alway have a reminder, and never any surprises.
Afterpay offers instant approval (you'll know immediately if you're approved) and your order will ship just as it would with any other form of payment.
All you have to do is select Afterpay when checking out and follow the instructions. Easy!
See why we love afterpay?
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We love this country, and we love American Made!
Since launching, we've shipped many orders with an APO/FPO address, and to be honest, few things make us happier. We've also seen orders designated as gifts for military members, both deployed and soon to be deployed. And we've seen orders for groomsmen gifts as part of military weddings. We've conducted promotions that for every USA dopp kit we sell, one gets sent to a deployed service member. Well, it's time we start officially offering a military discount. Below are a few notes we've received from our customers:
"My husband is a retired Coast Guard and Army pilot and is still using the same dopp kit from his time in the military, which has seen its better days. I did extensive research and your Dopp Kit was rated as the best buy. Thanks again for being so kind. Merry Christmas!"
"I love your products and was wondering if you all offer any military discounts. I'm looking to buy some travel items for my military wedding and any little bit helps. Thanks so much for your time and assistance."
"Hi! I learned about your company through Bespoke Post. I've gotten your gym bag and your dopp kit. LOVE them both. I've been in the US Navy for 18 1/2 years now and after reading about the USA Dopp Kit for the Donald Cook, I just wanted to say thank you for doing that! It's amazing to see companies do things like this for the military. I'm now a lifelong fan of Blue Claw! Keep up the great work and amazing products. After doing 7 deployments onboard ships, I know exactly how much those kits will mean to those sailors! Cheers"
"I joined the military in 2008 and have traveled quite a bit since. I have to say that no luggage held up during travel quite like a Navy Seabag. It was the most versatile luggage I've ever had. That is until using your products. Plus, they look quite a bit nicer. I believe your company is setting a precedent for high end products that scale to any customer."
We've worked with ID.me to create a seamless process to obtain your discount during checkout. Once in the cart, click the "verify me with ID.me" and follow the steps. This will require you to enter your military ID. Upon success, you will be provided the discount code.
We look forward to continuing to support our Veterans (past, present and future),
Blue Claw Co
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If the farthest you travel for your Christmas tree each year is to your storage room, you're truly missing out. Because there are a lot of really great things that accompany one's pursuit of the perfect Christmas tree. We agree, the fake tree had its time. And it certainly will always have its place (college dorm, local watering hole, VFW, etc). But there will be no denying, a trip to the local tree farm brings with it a feast of traditions (and memories). After all, the holiday season is meant for social traditions. We're talking hot toddies, warm cookies, and of course a meal worthy of a king as you kick back and admire your accomplishment. The shop local movement, along with numerous other recent trends (like #exploremore, #optoutside, #domore, #adventuretime, etc.) have really ramped up all that goes along with procuring a Christmas tree for real. It's not a chore, it's an experience!
If you have a fake tree, it's time for a change. Donate that thing to a local church or shelter. Then summon your inner Clark Griswold and pack up the family truckster. Although there are reasons a fake tree might be the best option, there are many more reasons you should forego convenience and get a little mud on them boots. If not for the fact it's a great family and friends engagement, but because it's good for the local community. And also, it's good for the environment.
Americans spend a LOT of money on Christmas trees each year. That's money that goes back to your local community (so long as you're shopping local). PLEASE, shop local! And if you think you're saving the trees because you're assembling a plastic version of one each year, let's think about it more. A Christmas tree exists for one reason-- to be a Christmas tree. It's why they're planted, and it's why they are harvested. And then you have the benefits that go hand-in-hand with having a local tree farm. That very Christmas tree farm provides habitat for a number of animals, birds and insects-- and for long durations as each tree must grow for a number of years before finally being ready to serve you. Many times, a tree farm is sitting on soil not otherwise able to sustain other types of crops. That's a win-win. In fact, the trees are good for the soil. In addition, they aid in the protection of nearby waterways. And let's not forget, they generate oxygen.
So how do you pick the perfect tree? Start off by measuring the space in your home that the tree will occupy. This is important. Then, decide your desired approach. Do you want to venture out and cut the tree down yourself? Or choose from an inventory of trees already harvested? Either way, you're looking for a tree that is alive and healthy. The needles should be green and remain attached to the tree when bumped or rubbed. Gently rub a few branches between your hands and make sure the needles stay intact. The branches should also have bounce while not breaking when compressed. Give the tree a hug, you'll know right away what we're talking about.
If you are purchasing a pre-cut tree, always ask to have a fresh cut taken off the bottom of the tree. A half inch is all it takes. This will open it up for proper water absorption, and that means your tree will last longer. Having a fresh cut will also level off the base, making it easily to place in the tree stand.
What kind of a tree should you look for? It does make a difference, but it doesn't need to be over-thought. Unless of course you're hosting the Walton's family Christmas, or decorating Stein Eriksen Lodge in Deer Valley. The Balsam Fir is the most abundant, and also the most reasonably priced. But it's Christmas, why not splurge a little? For another 10-15 bucks, we recommend an evergreen with short needles-- like a Fraser Fir or Noble Fir. Remember, getting the tree home is only half the battle. You'll still need to decorate it. And both the Fraser and Noble Fir allow for ample room to hang your ornaments. They also tend to have stronger branches, thus allowing you to hang those heavier ornaments.
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Here are some other things to consider when choosing a tree:
Color. They do very in color. From dark greens, to more electric greens. Sometimes a hint of blue.
Scent. Some trees are heavy in scent. Some have very little. This is personal preference. Sensitive scents? There are options for you.
Needle Retention. This is mostly driven by how often you want to be sweeping up needles. Note: keeping your tree watered will help prevent needles from falling from the tree. And if it loses a lot of needles, swoop them up and create your own potpourri-type bowl and extend that fresh pine scent to other areas of your house.
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Common types of Christmas trees and what to expect:
Balsam Fir. Dark green in color, nice spicy scent.
Douglas Fir. Bluish to dark green in color, rich scent.
Fraser Fir. Yellowish green in color, fragrant scent
Blue Spruce. Silver blue in color, strong scent.
Norway Spruce. Green in color, medium scent.
Scotch Pine. Dark green in color, slight fragrance, strong needle retention.
White Spruce. Bluish-green in color, medium scent.
Have fun with it. Create your own traditions. Guaranteed, this will become something you'll look forward to for years to come.
Sometimes a bag will exude a sense of class, other times a bag gives off an aura of "adventure-ready." And sometimes a bag will do both-- the Bronson Weekender is such a bag. Combining style and practicality, this weekender is built to handle rugged use. But at the same time, once returned to civility, will turn heads in business lounges and upscale hotels.
The interior is lined with cotton ripstop and complemented by expandable sides for convenient packing and easy access to your gear.
From business class to road trips, the Bronson is ready to embrace any adventure you throw at it.
Oh yeah, and it's carry-on approved.
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When you get to the security checkpoint, you'll be prepared to just place the whole pouch into the bin. Rather than unloading your pockets in complete disarray. Save time while keeping your things safe and secure.
Once on the plane, throw your bag in the overhead compartment and only hang on to the pouch, which already has everything you'll need for the ride. Money for drinks, headphones, smartphone, connecting flight boarding pass, etc.
What's in the name?
The Menara Grid Pouch is named after the Menara International Airport (located in Morocco) which is known for being efficient. Like this pouch. Just the right size for your important carry items, making it easy to stay organized when on the go.
The Menara International Airport is a sight to be seen. With a giant honeycomb-like structure, sunlight is cast throughout the windows creating a unique array of shadows on the inside. It's like nothing you've seen before. You'll get through the airport fast, but you might just want to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.
This pouch is perfect for headphones, cell phone, keys, wallet, chargers, etc. And a great sidekick to any weekender/carry-on. It is made using waxed canvas making it resistant to water, and to abrasions. It is designed to be tossed around. And it looks great, with a domestically sourced leather pull tabs for easy opening and a solid brass YKK zipper.
For you frequent travelers, the Menara Grid Pouch is a necessity. And also, for those of you just looking to add another layer of organization to your life.
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Don't get us wrong, we love packing for trips. It's confirmation that we're actually getting out there and doing it-- seeing the world! In fact, we design our bags with a simple idea in mind: "that the fun of a getaway begins not when you arrive at your destination, but rather the moment you start to pack." But efficient packing makes for an efficient traveler, and what's not fun about that?
Here are some common packing mistakes and how to avoid them:
1) You're over-packing
When you're at home, you have all the time and resources needed to change your attire no matter what the scenario. Like sleeping, working out, work, lounging, etc. But when you're on vacation, you're faced with satisfying multiple needs with limited resources. The luxury of having whatever you need, whenever you need it, just isn't there. To combat this, consider doubling up. For example, that tee you wore on the plane? Probably good enough to sleep in. Those comfy shorts you brought for hiking around town? Probably good enough to workout in. To get around over-packing, plan your days with "doubling up" in mind. What you wear on day one, can easily become something you wear on day 3, and with a different purpose in mind.
2) You're not packing the right things
A good rule of thumb: if you don't wear it at home, you'll never wear it on vacation. Instead, only pack your favorite things. The things you know you'll wear, and that you enjoy wearing. Additionally, if you love wearing it, you'll find yourself wearing it multiple times, and hence the need for less.
Pack neutral colors. Every shirt should have the option to be worn with every bottom. Pack a funky color or pattern and you may need to find an accompanying unnecessary bottom to match. Both of which you'll probably only wear once. Or not at all.
Whenever possible, pack clothing with technical properties like sweat wicking or quick-dry, whether it's in a tee, polo, commuter pants, etc. Not only will they keep you dry while in the moment, they're also great if you plan to wear something more than once.
3) You're forgetting that you can always go shopping once at your destination (in most cases, that is)
You're probably going to want to grab a souvenir tee or sweatshirt anyway. So make this a part of your planned attire and pack one less. And if you find that you need something you don't have, you can always go out and purchase it. So don't sweat the possibility of forgetting some of those less common items and focus on the essentials. And oh yeah, most hotels carry a wide arrange of supplies. Might be a bit pricey, but hey, you're on vacation.
4) You're not using a shoe bag
Your shoes see the worst of it. The floor in the airport, the city streets, gum, and many other unknown, hidden displeasures. You're going to want to quarantine them in a shoe bag before packing them with your clean clothes. Don't want to buy a shoe bag? Then use a bread bag, plastic grocery bag, etc. Whatever it takes. Just don't let your clothes be the barrier to all that grime your shoes have collected.
5) You think one type/style of bag is all you'll ever need
This common misconception will easily lead you down the path of over or under packing. Assess what you'll need for your trip. Then assess the type of bags you'll need. You'll either need a suitcase or weekender. Maybe you have a big enough need to check a suitcase as well as carry on a weekender. Or maybe your carry-on is better suited for a briefcase. But no matter what, you should always have a dopp kit. Traveling for business or a wedding? You should have a garment bag. Think it through. Lay everything out, then choose the most appropriate bag assortment to accomplish your needs.
6) You're not checking airline restrictions in advance
They change! And so do bag allowances. Check with your airline (and the TSA) and determine what you can and can't bring, free bags, bags for a fee, approved liquids, size and weight limits, etc. Have a clear understanding of what you can and can't do before you arrive at the airport. And if you're at risk of checking a bag that exceeds the weight limit, weigh it before you leave for the airport. It's a lot easier to deal with trimming down your luggage while at home vs. in line at the airport.
7) You don't bring enough cash
Imagine you lose your wallet, and have no cash on hand. It happens, and is a position you don't want to be in. Divide up a couple hundred bucks and randomly place it within your things. Maybe a couple $20s with some smaller bills in your wallet (for tipping, etc), a couple bills in your carry-on (dopp kit), one in your suitcase, etc. Cash is king and you will never regret having access to it.
8) You're not printing your important documents
Phones are great. But only when you have battery life and service. If either of those decide to go, you'll be grateful to have a hard copy of where you need to be and when you need to be there. We're talking airline tickets, hotel itinerary, ground transportation reservations, etc. You never know what might happen.
Remember, vacations are meant to be enjoyed. To relax, hang with friends and family, and experience new things. What you pack plays a significant role in your ability to enjoy it. A little bit of careful planning, along with some simple knowledge, and you'll be well on your way to a worry free vacation.
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For starters, dopp kits aren't just for men. Imagine having a small bag that's waterproof, easy to carry, and incredibly durable (and in many cases, fashionable). Now imagine all the things you could use that bag for. See what we're talking about? Camp bags, car bags, miscellaneous organization, field bags, etc. And of course it works great as a makeup bag-- due to its convenient size, the ability to wipe clean the interior, etc. But mostly, because of its durability.
So here's the deal, the dopp kit is meant for quick and easy access to all your important travel accessories-- primarily your grooming accessories. If you travel on even a somewhat frequent basis, it will become your best friend. In fact, just leave it packed between trips. It's not meant to be something you grab and pack, it's meant to be something you grab and go. So leave it packed, and leave your forgetfulness behind.
What should you put in it? Below is a list of the essentials. And honestly, it doesn't matter where you're off to, there is a time and place for each and every item on this list. At the end of the day, if the need ever arises, you're going to be glad you have it. Don't assume you won't need shampoo because you'll be at a hotel. Don't assume the concierge will have a spare toothbrush if you happen to forget yours. Assume each and every item is something you'll need at some point during the course of your travels.
1) A Toothbrush. Make it collapsible if you insist. But make it a spare toothbrush that stays with your dopp. How many times have you arrived at your destination only to realize your toothbrush was left behind?
2) A Small tube of Toothpaste. We also like to carry a small bottle of mouthwash as it's an easy solution to the need for a quick refresh.
3) A small bottle of Body Wash. Works for your body of course, but if need be, also your hair. Accompany this with a small bottle of dry shampoo. Hint: if you happen to be staying at a hotel, grab an extra bottle of the shampoo they provide and put it in your dopp kit for the next time you travel. If you prefer bar soap, we recommend Dr. Squatch due to its convenient size and powerful scent.
4) Travel Wipes. We like Duke Cannon's Cold Shower Face and Body Wipes, if your travels include excessive activities (hiking, exploring the city, etc.) these things are a necessity. You'll be glad you have them if shower time is ever limited. We usually bring about 6 towels (individually packed), then replenish the dopp kit as soon as we return home so it's ready for next time.
5) Deodorant. No explanation needed. But make it a spare that stays with the dopp kit.
6) Cologne. We prefer a good solid cologne when traveling. Like Alfred Lane Solid Cologne. It's small, convenient, and smells great. Or, next time you're at department store, grab some cologne samples. They go a long way and are usually free. Hint: you know those little cardboard strips you spray the tester on to sample a new cologne? Keep them and drop one or two in your suitcase and/or carry-on and fend off some of that unwanted travel odor.
7) Chapstick. Never a bad idea. Choose something with sun protection.
8) Lotion. Kill two birds with one stone and choose one with sun protection.
9) Shaving Essentials. If you plan on shaving that is. Find a good shave oil, and get yourself a collapsible razor. That should do it.
10) Q-tips
11) A Comb
12) Ear Plugs
13) Pain Killers
14) Fingernail Clippers
15) Phone Charger. Buy an extra and leave it in your dopp for the sole purpose of travel. Again, just one less thing to pack and one less thing to forget.
16) Headphones. See number 15 above.
17) A $20 Dollar Bill. We always travel with two separate $20 bills, each stored in a separate location-- and your wallet doesn't count! In the event you ever loose your wallet, or have any other traveling mishap, at least you'll have a little cash on hand. The dopp is a great place for a safety stash of money.
18) A few empty Ziploc Bags. In the event you need them to get through the airport security check, discover your body wash is leaking, etc.
Whenever possible, buy the travels size. Or spend a couple of bucks and get an assortment of small reusable travel vials. Then replenish as needed from your home supply. If you don't plan to check a bag, you're still going to need to make it through security. And if you are checking a bag, the dopp kit is the first thing we pull out and throw in the carry-on. Then if your ever separated from your luggage, you always have the essentials.
The dopp has been a popular travel companion for many years and there are a lot of reasons why. Why not join the club and start taking advantage of the many benefits!
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Need one? Shop our collection of American made dopp kits.
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Here are some of our favorite travel destinations for all you music-minded travelers (in no particular order):
1. Seattle, WA:
Doesn't need much explaining. Can you say the birth of grunge? We're talking Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Mother Love Bone, Soundgarden, Modest Mouse, Mudhoney, The Postal Service. And the list goes on.. Grunge music no doubt played a huge hand in defining the Seattle music scene, so if you're visiting, allow the appropriate amount of time to fall deep into the 90's. Because grunge is everywhere.
Must Do:
-Catch some live music at the Crocodile Cafe in Belltown. Doesn't matter who's playing. Just go.
-See a Nirvana cover band. Period!
-Wander the town. Go where the people are going. Because the locals know best!
Diversions:
-Dimitrious's Jazz Alley. Because jazz is still going strong in Seattle.
-Take the Stalking Seattle Rock & Roll Tour. See the first place Nirvana ever played, the home where Kurt Cobain died, Jimi Hendrix related sites, etc.
2. Minneapolis, MN
Best known for Funk Rock. And an unsuspecting music scene, thanks to Prince. And Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Morris Day, etc. And their sound remains. This city loves Prince (and the color purple). But MN is also the home of Bob Dylan, so in addition to funk, you're going to find a good assortment of folk rock. Plus, it's where we're from.
*If you haven't seen it, watch the movie "Purple Rain" before visiting. If you have seen it, watch it again.
Must Do:
-Catch a show at First Avenue. If you watched "Purple Rain" you'll understand why. See whoever happens to be playing. Any band will do. Its rawness is impeccable.
*Stars painted on the outside of First Avenue represent the bands that have performed there
-Attend one of the music festivals in the heart of downtown mpls: The Basilica Block Party or Rock the Garden. Guaranteed to be a good line up, with incredible views of the city.
Diversions:
-"Purify yourself in Lake Minnetonka" (See Purple Rain).
-Tour the late Prince's home and studio, Paisley Park.
-Visit Blue Claw's workshop and offices. Just send us and email, we'll make sure we have your favorite adult beverage on hand.
3) Austin, TX
Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World" (thank you Willie Nelson). Austin is also known as the home of South by Southwest (SXSW). Nuff said. Do you have any idea the number of bands that owe a majority of their success to SXSW? We don't either. There are too many. But just to name a few: The White Stripes, Janelle Monae, Alabama Shakes, Foster the People, Imagine Dragons, Haim, Kid Cudi, John Mayer, MIA, James Blunt, Amy Winehouse, Skrillex, The Lumineers, Katy Perry, The Strokes, etc. Genre-wise, Austin is home to many. So explore your favs.
Must Do:
-Roam Sixth Street and pop into as many venues as possible.
-Hit up SXSW and take in as much live music as you can.
-If you can find a way, catch a live taping of Austin City Limits. If you can't get tickets (it's tough to do), hit up the Austin City Limits festival.
Diversions:
-Breakfast tacos and BBQ!
-Shop along South Congress (SoCo).
4) Los Angeles, CA
There are so many interesting things to do in LA when it comes to music. And endless amounts of history (you may have to go more than once). Home to a number of record labels, and the stomping ground for many bands, musicians, executives, etc. Not to mention the bands that have been formed there: The Doors, Guns n' Roses, Metallica, The Beach Boys, Guns N' Roses, Rage Against The Machine. All playing a big roll in defining the local sound.
Must Do:
-Catch a show at Hollywood Bowl.
-And The Troubadour.
-And Whiskey a Go-Go
Diversion:
-Visit Capital Records. Consider it ground zero to the entire LA music scene.
-Grammy Museum
-Jump on the Hood Life Tours and see the role LA played in the evolution of rap. Take a tour through Compton and South Central.
-Grab some vinyl at Amoeba Music. Might be the largest independently owned record store in the world. Pretty sure it takes up the entire block, located just off Sunset Blvd. Catch some live music while you're buying some music.
-Walk Sunset Boulevard and pop into the Rainbow Room Bar & Grill for a drink or two. It's known as the bar for rock musicians and has been frequented by the likes of Guns n' Roses, Red Hot Chili Peppers, as well as numorouse other legendary acts.
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Photo Cred: GQ
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SLATE-NY is trendy, classy, and they know it! And we love it! Yes, they have billiards, but if you really want to get down, this place is practically a ping pong party paradise. This spacious venue has an interior designed for pleasure. Whether you're looking for some action, or something a bit more cozy. Practice your topspin and slices, then enjoy an entirely different feel behind the walls in a hidden VIP lounge. Another hot spot for ping pong in the big apple. Photo Cred: Slate-NY
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Address:
54 W 21st Street
New York, NY 10010
]]>First tings first, take a quick peak at the below graphic. It's a quick summary of the most commonly used men's bags:
Each type of men's bag has it's own unique purpose (whether it's travel, trips the gym, the daily commute, out about town, sports, etc.). But that's not to say each can't serve multiple purposes. Take dopp kits for example. Originally designed as a catch-all bag for men's grooming and toiletries, is often times used for other reasons. Like makeup bags, photography lenses, art supplies, etc.
Then, within each type of bag, you'll find a variety of styles. And obviously, each style comes with its own unique features, materials, colors, etc.
Answer the following questions and be on your path to choosing a bag that's not only going make life easier, but also one that you'll be proud to carry for years to come.
1) What will the bag be used for?
2) How often will you use the bag?
3) Are there any special features required?
4) What is your budget?
Once you have an answer to theses questions, select a fabric that best accommodates your needs:
BALLISTIC NYLON: Light, Waterproof, Durable, Less Expensive
WAXED COTTON: Heavy, Water Resistant, Durable, Less Expensive
LEATHER: Heavy, Durable, More Expensive
Once you have a lay of the land in terms of what you need, as well as an accommodating fabric, start shopping.
]]>Free ping pong and peanut butter burgers, all the exercise and protein you could possibly need. That's what you're going to get at The Laughing Pint. No plate is served with fries, and TVs aren't the focal point. Which means you have every reason to get out of your seat and work on your return. You will enjoy the top notch draft beer selection and vintage feel of this ping pong hangout that the locals call their hometown watering whole with a 'spin.'
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Address:
3531 Gough St.
Baltimore, MD 21224 (Highlandtown)
]]>You've probably heard us make mention of 420 Denier when talking about our dopp kits. But why, what's the big deal? And why do we even use it to begin with? Answer: because the fabric was originally developed for military use in parachute backpacks. You know, the backpack that a parachute goes into-- that the troops relied on to safely return them to the ground having jumped from a airplane. Used because of it's lightweight characteristics, durability and smoothness in texture (which prevented hang ups, snags, etc). All of which are characteristic also important when lining a dopp kit.
There's more to consider... But lets get technical for a moment. Denier is defined as the weight in grams of 9000 meters of nylon fiber. Coated in polyurethane it's also water repellent, as well as mildew resistant. Vitally important characteristics when used in a dopp kit. Basically speaking, if you’re looking for a water repellent fabric, 420 Denier just might be your solution. Especially when talking about bags and luggage. We think it's the perfect solution when talking about dopp kits.
A few other reasons we like about 420 Denier:
-High resistance to abrasions
-Hight resistance to tears
-Low shrinkage and stretch
-Minimal fading
Most important-- it comes in our signature blue.
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If you missed part 1, read it HERE. Getting married? Give your groomsmen a gift they can enjoy for years to come. Like a personalized dopp kit, made in the USA. A good dopp kit is a rite of passage, and for those pals who will help you get through your big day, and send you on your way to marriage-- well, they've earned it, don't you think? Shop dopps HERE. Learn more about our personalization program HERE.
**Take advantage of our discount pricing for wedding parties. Please contact us HERE for more info.
]]>We're just going to say it...Pure Pong in the Pearl is one of the best things to happen to Portland since the invention of beer. Pure Pong is the largest two-story ping pong club in the United States. They've got food and drinks, along with a DJ, just in case you like to swing your paddle to the rhythm and beats. Wednesday night leagues and Friday night tournaments are revitalizing the urban location in The Pearl District, Portland. Photo Cred: Pure Pong
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Address:
1315 NW Overton St.
Portland, OR 97209
]]>"Make sure you got clean underwear, she always said, in case you get in an accident & I always figured that'd be the least of my worries, but now I'm older & I see there's a lot you can't control & clean underwear is one of those you can. For the most part."
]]>Traveling to Colorado? Did you know they have the highest elevation of any other state? Well check out this playlist-- a compilation of Colorado made music. Musicians that were born there, lived there, or bands that were formed there. Get out and breathe the thin air, but also explore the music that has helped define The Centennial State.
1) Big Head Todd and the Monsters -- Bittersweet
2) John Denver -- Take Me Home, Country Roads
3) Flobots -- Handlebars
4) The Fray -- How to Save a Life
5) The Lumineers -- Stubborn Love
6) OneRepublic -- Apologize
7) Earth, Wind & Fire -- September
8) DeVotchKa -- How it Ends
9) The Minders -- Hooray for Tuesday
10) Brad Corrigan -- Walk On
11) Dressy Bessy -- If You Should Try to Kiss Her
12) Jill Sobule -- Supermodel
13) 16 Horsepower -- Black Soul Choir
14) Sugarloaf -- Gree-Eyed Lady
15) Elephant Revival -- Sing to the Mountain
16) The String Cheese Incident -- Sirens
]]>Rubbers brings the hip new concept of a ping pong bar to the heart of Tokyo, located right around the corner of the Ikebukuro stop. While there are many underground table tennis spots in the city, Rubbers raises five Adidas ping pong tables above to the 3rd floor of its building. The venue satisfies both beginners and experts, so grab a light meal and beverage, rent a paddle, and see if you can beat the Japanese at their own game. Photo Cred: Rubbers.
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Address:
藤ビル3F 2丁目-40−14 Ikebukuro
Toshima, Tokyo 171-0014, Japan
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You're getting married! Congrats by the way. And your best buds are all lined up to help make it a day YOU'LL never forget-- no matter what it takes. Whether it's the time commitment, the money they're about to spend, etc. Well, give them something that THEY'LL never forget. Like a gift that will last a lifetime-- and that every time they use it, will trigger a memory from the day you tied the knot. A gift that will show them just how much you appreciate all that they've done for you. Not just at the wedding (or weeks leading up to it), but throughout life in general.
Our Gooseneck Garment Bags have proven to be such a gift. But make sure you personalize it.
Planning a destination wedding? Better yet! Now your groomsmen have a place to put their suit/tux for safe travels. And that means one less thing to worry about. It's your wedding. It's your crew. A worthy reason to travel in style, don't you think?
**Take advantage of our discount pricing for wedding parties. Please contact us HERE for more info.
]]>Easy Tiger is for those who enjoy quality in their life. Its bakery puts out freshly baked artisan bread, the bar has the best selection of beer in the area, and the patio down the stairs is laid back with ping pong and picnic tables. Not to mention the relaxing waterway it sits upon. They put their homemade mustard on their homemade pretzels and German sausages, not to mention their array of hearty sandwiches. Take it easy tiger and see how long you can keep your volley going on the canal side ping pong tables at 6th street's hidden gem. Photo Cred: Easy Tiger.
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Address:
709 E 6th St.
Austin, TX 78701 (Downtown)
]]>Traveling to Utah? Going for some of that fresh pow? To catch a few flicks at Sundance maybe? Well check out this playlist-- a compilation of Utah made music. Musicians that were born there, or bands that were formed there. Get out and explore their 5 national parks, but also explore the music that has helped define The Beehive State.
1) Neon Trees -- Everybody Talks
2) Fictionist -- Free Spirit
3) Meg & Dia -- Monster
4) Joshua James -- Dramamine
5) The Solarists -- Dream Girl
6) The National Parks -- You are Gold
7) The Moth & The Flames -- Young & Unafraid
8) Festive People -- The Pioneer Song
9) The National Parks -- As We Ran
10) The Moth & The Flames -- Red Flag
11) Strange Familia -- Love / Drugs
12) Mythic Valley -- Sadie
13) Salt Valley -- In Time
14) Parlor Hawk -- Home
15) Desert Noises -- Wings of White
16) Neon Trees -- Animal
]]>Happy Village is a shots and beer type place that sports a beer garden patio out back. But it fills up fast, so grab a spot early-- then hang out all night. Your balls won’t be blowing in the wind at this Happy Village. Any place protecting their official Butterfly Ping Pong tables with its own backroom knows how to keep it real. Serve the night up at the Happy Village if you want to add some topspin to your night out in chi-town. Photo Cred: Happy Village.
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Address:
1059 N Wolcott Ave
Chicago, IL 60622 (Ukrainian Village)
]]>Ping pong only. Located in South Bay, Top Spin offers 13,000 square feet filled with 20 plus tournament class tables, 3 robots, and floors designed for the professional class type. In terms of ping pong, this place is the real deal. The Pro-Shop carries everything from balls, nets, shoes, blades, rubbers, glues and tables. Bring your classic paddle and have their specialist restore it for you. Photo Cred: Top Spin.
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Address:
1150 Campbell Ave
San Jose, CA 95126
]]>Traveling to Texas? You best be finding some live music-- SXSW? Austin City Limits? Billy Bob's maybe? Then, check out this playlist-- a compilation of Texas made music. Musicians that were born there, or bands that were formed there. Get out and explore the sites to be seen, but also explore the music that has helped define The Lone Star State.
1) Leon Bridges -- River
2) Beyonce -- Halo
3) Kelly Clarkson -- Stronger
4) ZZ Top -- Sharp Dressed Man
5) Ciara -- Oh
6) Kacey Musgraves -- Merry Go 'Round
7) Miranda Lambert -- Vice
8) Willie Nelson -- Pancho and Lefty
9) Kenny Rogers -- The Gambler
10) Selena Gomez -- The Heart Wants What it Wants
11) Lyle Lovett -- If I Had A Boat
12) Robert Earl Keen -- The Road Goes On Forever
13) Buddy Holy -- Dearest
14) The Big Bopper -- Sleepwalk
15) Waylon Jennings -- Lukenbach, Texas
16) George Jones -- Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes
17) Roy Orbison -- Blue Bayou
18) Meat Loaf -- Paradise By The Dashboard Light
19) Don Henley -- The Boys Of Summer
20) Janis Joplin -- Me And Bobby McGee
21) Dixie Chicks -- Not Ready To Make Nice
22) Spoon -- The Underdog
23) Toadies -- Possum Kingdom
24) Ted Nugent -- Strangelhold
25) Norah Jones -- Say Goodbye
26) George Strait -- All My Ex's Live in Texas
27) Kenny Rogers -- Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)
28) Janis Joplin -- Call On Me
29) Ted Nugent -- Fred Bear
30) George Strait -- Amarillo By Morning
]]>This place is bumpin’. Ace Eat Serve creates a unique dining and entertainment experience for visitors and locals in Denver. Come here to watch and be a part of extreme battles over table tennis. Ping pong and awesome food, what more could you want? Thirsty? Ace Eat Serve offers an extensive beer and sake list. An outdoor patio and super reasonable prices, so you can treat your friends to drinks and a game of ping pong and still have some money for red curry beef and boa buns. Oh, did we mention the whole place is designed to feel like the inside of an airplane? Well, are you there yet? Photo Cred: Ace Eat Serve.
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Address:
501 E 17th Ave
Denver, CO 80203
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