Leather.LifeTips.com

Transcription

1 Leather.LifeTips.com

2 Category: Cleaning Leather Subcategory: Cleaning Leather Tip: Leather Jacket Care Leather specialty stores sell special products designed to care for your leather jackets. You can use a leather lotion to keep your jacket soft, leather wipes make a quick clean-up easier, and leather protector helps keep your leather jacket safe in winter months. One of the best tips of all to keep your leather jacket in good condition is to wear them regularly. If you have to put them in storage, make sure it's a well-ventilated area of your home. Tip: Removing Oil/Grease Stains When removing grease or oil stains from leather, the best advice is to not use water to clean up the spill. It is well known oil and water do not mix,' and water will cause the oil to spread even more. Start by using a dry clot and blot the excess oil away Using either talc powder or cornstarch, place a small amount on to cover the area. Let the leather sit overnight The next day, using a soft dry cloth, wipe the talc powder or cornstarch away. The talc powder or cornstarch will act as an absorbent to lift away the oil or grease from the leather material. Tip: Removing Salt Stains If you live in a cold climate, salt applied to the roads and sidewalks can potentially cause stains. To remove salt stains, a mild solution of 75 percent vinegar to 25 percent water should be used. In the beginning, complete a spot test. After the vinegar solution has been found mild enough, use a cotton ball to gently wipe away the salt stains from the leather garment. Allow the leather to air dry naturally. Tip: Selecting The Right Cleaning Agent When cleaning leather, it is recommended selecting a cleaning agent especially designed to clean leather stains. Even after finding the right cleaning agent to clean your leather goods, a spot test is necessary. A spot test involves selecting an inconspicuous area of your leather goods to be cleaned, and placing on it a small amount of the cleaning agent. Then following the manufacturer's instructions, the leather is examined to determine how it has reacted to the product. In this way, it is possible to see what effect the cleaning agent will have, before applying it to your leather goods. Category: Leather Accessories

3 Subcategory: Leather Accessories Tip: Authentic vs. Faux Leather Handbags Leather handbags are quite popular, but how can you tell if you are buying the real thing, and not a very convincing replica. When you first start shopping for a leather handbag, and would like to discover if its authentic, spend time examining the bag. The authentic leather handbag would be made of quality leather, compared to an imitation handbag. If you are able to do so, compare the leather handbag to one you know for sure is fake. In this way, if there are any similarities, you can ascertain if the handbag is real leather or not. Real leather has a smooth and buttery texture. To guarantee an authentic leather handbag is purchased, buy from a reputable seller. Purchasing your leather handbag from a retailer or store that specializes in leather will reduce your chances of buying immitation or poor quality leather. Always ask questions about the handbag to help ensure your leather handbag is authentic. Finding out as much information about how the leather is prepared and its manufacturer, can prevent you giving out money for a fake leather bag. Tip: Decorating With Leather Pillows Other than upholstery, decorating with leather is increasing. Using leather pillows in your living room or bedroom can liven up any décor. When selecting leather pillows for your living room furniture, look for the right shape and size pillows to coordinate your décor. Not only can leather pillows be purchased in light or dark colors, many leather pillows are dyed to match the color of any room. It should be easy for you to find a few of them to match your décor. When selecting leather pillows for you bedroom, you are only limited by your own creativity. If your bedroom is decorated in deep colors and dark wood, leather pillows will be perfect accents. However, if you bedroom is more of a southern theme, then a soft suede pillow might just be right for you. Regardless of how your living room or bedroom is decorated, leather pillows will make any room look trendy. Tip: Warm Leather Gloves For Winter During the cold winter months, there is no better accessory than lined leather gloves. Leather gloves are designed to provide comfort, and protect the skin from cold weather. Not only are leather gloves wonderful for protecting your hands from the cold, they are also able to keep out moisture. When searching for leather gloves for winter wear, go online to research the various styles available. Examples of these styles include leather gloves lined with faux fur, cashmere, angora, fleece or cotton/knit blends. Category: Leather Boots

4 Subcategory: Leather Boots Tip: Boots For Women With so many to choose from, many women find it difficult to decide between two or more pairs of leather boots. In the end, many women buy a dressy pair along with a casual pair for everyday use. One of the interesting things about purchasing womens boots is the style of boots available. The most popular boots for women have been the UGG boots, made of sheepskin leather, and can be purchased in almost any color. They can be purchased to wear ankle-length or be worn thigh-high. The length will also depend on the outfit being worn. Never think you are too old for women's boots. These boots are worn by young businesswomen, stay at home moms, and grandmothers. No woman is too old, and will look attractive in women's leather boots. Tip: Live Your Dream of Becoming a Cowboy Many of us remember watching the old black and white cowboy movies. Yet in many parts of the country, cowboys still exist, and spend much of their time taking care of livestock and farming the land. Even today, cowboys still depend on leather cowboy boots to cushion their feet from the stress of daily activities. This has resulted in an increase in the popularity of cowboy boots as more people try to recreate the good old days. When trying to adopt the cowboy or cowgirl, look, find leather boots comfortable enough to be worn with a pair of jeans. Some men or women will even complete their outfits by buying a cowboy hat. Cowboy boots are especially handy for anyone attending a Western-themed party, or going out for the evening to a Square Dance. Cowboy boots differ from regular boots in the way the booth is constructed. Usually Western-style cowboy boots will have a more pointed front with spurs attached to the heels. Tip: The Harley Davidson Boot Collection There is hardly anyone who is not familiar with the motorcycles produced by the Harley Davidson Company. Yet not everyone will be familiar with the line of Harley Davidson boots also produced by the same company. These boots are perfect to buy for a Harley Davidson fanatic. Begin looking for Harley Davidson boots by visiting an online retailer. With Harley Davidson being such a popular company, searching the Internet will reveal a ton of Web sites selling these boots. On the Internet, there are several Harley Davidson boots to choose from, such as the Women's Loni Boots. These boots are made of full grain leather with four buckles on each side. Another popular style was the Men's Ace Boots, containing lacings and the Harley Davidson logo on the side. Yet, these Harley Davidson boots mentioned are just some examples of styles available, for someone who enjoys riding Harley Davidson motorcycles.

5 Tip: Where A "Harness" Around Your Feet One of the most popular styles of boots is harness boots. It is usually worn by motorcyclists, in standard colors of black and brown. Harness boots measure from 10 to 18 inches in length, and offer protection to many areas of the feet, based on the way they are designed. They are created using heavy leather with reinforced steel in the front and bottom of the shoe. Harness boots derive their name from the flaps of leather and metal circle surrounding it. The first flap is located around the top of the ankle, while the second flap is found around the back of the ankle. Two flaps also start at the ankle and travel to the top of the boot. These flaps of leather form a harness around the boots. The harness made by the flaps of leather give it an attractive appearance, and they support the feet as well. Category: Leather Chaps Subcategory: Leather Chaps Tip: Leather Chaps For Children and Teenagers As parents or guardians, it is always a good idea to encourage children to become involved in wholesome fun. If your little boy or girl is interested in cowboys, or riding horses, think about buying them a pair of leather chaps. Chaps are nice when a parent and child wear matching pairs, because chaps for children and teenagers are only smaller versions of regular adult chaps. Expect to pay $50 to $70 for these leather chaps. Tip: A "How-To" Guide To Wearing Chaps When putting on chaps for the first time, you might be confused about how to wear them. They are not worn alone, but over other clothing such as pants or jeans. There are two holes in the front and back, with a belt to buckle them in the front. There is also a strip of leather in the back, which can sometimes be either laced or buckled to tighten the chaps. Start by ensuring the main side zippers on the legs are zipped open, with the waist unbuckled. Step into the chaps making sure to rearrange them comfortably around you. Buckle the waist, and close the side leg zippers, while arranging your jeans or pants underneath. Tip: Customized Leather Chaps When buying leather chaps, it is a good idea to customize them to help you stand out from the crowd. This tip is especially useful when wearing leather chaps during rodeo or equestrian events. The first way to consider customizing your leather chaps is with jewelry. Leather chaps can be purchased with decorative buttons and jewelry for clothing. Decorating with jewelry will look impressive, especially when wearing chaps

6 during equestrian events. Another way to customize leather chaps is with fringes and tassels. Fringes or tassels hanging from leather chaps are trendy and encompass the true Western style of wearing leather chaps. They can be worn by cowboys, or by people participating in rodeos. Tip: Finding The Proper Size Chaps Since leather chaps are worn by an assortment of people, it is essential that the proper size of leather chaps be purchased. Leather chaps are worn over pants, and one would think they would only be available in standard sizes of small, medium, or large. Yet depending on the brand of leather chaps, they can also be purchased in regular pants sizes just as you would purchase your jeans. To determine which size of chaps is right for you, do not use your regular pants measurements, but while wearing a pair of jeans, measure the circumference and length of your leg over the jeans. By measuring for new leather chaps in this way, the pair you select should be able to fit over a pair of thick jeans, and feel fine over any other pants you wear. Tip: Leather Chaps What Are They? Chaps or chaparajos are manufactured leather and are worn to cover your pants. They have no material at the pelvis and hips. Chaparajos function to add protection mainly to the legs, by encasing them in leather while anchored with a leather belt at the waist. They were first used by cowboys and rodeo participants, but now are a favorite with motorcyclists. Cowboys started wearing chaps to protect their legs and clothing from scratches from thorns, while herding. Nowadays, chaps are highly recommended for any rider looking for extra leg protection. Tip: Sewing Your Own Chaps Chaps can either be bought in a regular store or at a motorcycle dealer, or sewn if you are handy with a needle. The first item you will need to go shopping for is leather to make the chaps. A leather of medium thickness is great for chaps, and can be found at some fabric or specialty leather stores. Suede is also good for chaps, and is easier to sew than regular leather. While out buying your leather, look around for patterns for leather chaps. Patterns can also be downloaded from the Internet, or a really good seamstress can opt to sew without a pattern. It is also a good tip to make sure your sewing machine is equipped with sewing through leather. The material might be too thick for the machine, and this can damage its motor. Reading your sewing machine's owner's manual is a good way to find out what fabrics are supported. Overall, chaps are easy to sew, because they require less material, and are similar to sewing regular pants. Do not forget in the end, to customize your chaps with your own special designs! Category: Leather Jackets

7 Subcategory: Leather Jackets Tip: A2 Flight Jackets For The Collector The A2 leather flight jacket was first worn during World War II. They were designed using a leather which was vegetable tanned, and was manufactured in either an off black or light brown color. Many people collect A2 flight jackets, because they were used during an unforgettable time in America's history. A seller of war memorabilia is one place to start locating for A2 flight jackets, and they can be located by reading war magazines, visiting auction sites, or contacting the local veteran's association. A2 flight jackets are not easy to find, so patience is needed before finding one to purchase. Tip: Information About Leather Jackets If you are interested in finding more information about your leather jacket, how to care for jackets and accessories for your leather jacket, there are many online sites dedicated to the history and care of leather jackets. These Web sites also showcases the hottest fashions in leather jackets, and other leather apparel, while providing tips for their care and maintenance. Helpful information on these Web sites include the listings of leather cleaners in your local area who can clean your leather jacket. There is even a handy section on how to select leather, based on their recommendations. Tip: Leather After Weight Loss After losing weight, there is nothing more gratifying than shopping for new clothes. Most people just look for smaller sizes in the regular clothes they have always worn, without trying any new styles. Adding a leather jacket to your wardrobe is a new style of clothing anyone should try who has lost weight. When looking for a leather jacket, it is ideal to select one that fits comfortably, and is not too big in the shoulders. A leather jacket that is too big on someone, who has lost weight, will not look flattering. Tip: Personalized Leather Jackets In the supply and demand society we live in, almost anything can be personalized to your particular specifications. The same is true with leather jackets. A leather jacket can be personalized to choose the type and color of leather to create the jacket from. It can also be personalized with a particular design. Customized leather jackets are a favorite with schools, sports teams, and fraternities. Many fraternities will customize their leather jacket with the person's name, the school's name, and the name of the fraternity. Customized leather jackets are simple to order, and almost any storeowner will accommodate your requests. Tip: Senior Citizens In Leather

8 Leather jackets are ideal for senior citizens because they are able to keep the body warm throughout the winter. Many of these jackets are lined with fur, to keep the person feeling cozy on a cold winter day. Also, leather jackets are affordable, and are well worth the money to buy them. There are some stores catering to senior citizens, which offer discounts on any purchase. Therefore, this discount will further decrease the cost of your leather jacket, and make it even more affordable. Category: Leather LifeStyle Subcategory: Leather LifeStyle Tip: A Leather Lifestyle A leather lifestyle is a phrase used to describe people who enjoy wearing leather clothing, and who derive pleasure from wearing leather clothing. A leather lifestyle can also be associated with sadomasochistic behavior. However, not all people who enjoy wearing leather, practice sadomasochism. A leather lifestyle also is practiced by some members of the gay community. There are a number of people who are gay, and also enjoy wearing leather clothing. However, it should also not be assumed that everyone who practices a leather lifestyle is gay. Tip: Collars Are Not Just For Dogs There was a time when leather collars were only made and worn by dogs and cats. However, there are people who enjoy wearing leather collars. People interested in Goth, punk rock, or a biker lifestyle can wear leather collars. Other people interested in sadomasochism will wear a leather collar and chain also. When shopping for a leather collar, find a collar that is not too tight around the neck to obstruct breathing. Look for one fitting loosely around the neck and not causing discomfort. Not only would leather collars come in different colors, they are also designed differently with spikes, studs, or brass buckles. A spiked leather collar was popular when first manufactured, and is still popular today. Tip: Leather Fetishes At the heart of the leather culture are people who have a fetish for leather. A fetish is described as a love for a body part or thing. The person receives pleasure from seeing (or wearing) the item, for example, leather motorcycle clothing. Anyone with a leather fetish will enjoy seeing other people wearing leather. They will fantasize about men or women wearing various types of leather outfits. A leather fetish is also characterized by the person who enjoys wearing leather, because they like the way it feels against their skin. However, a leather fetish can manifest itself as either someone who enjoys watching other people wearing leather, those who enjoy wearing leather, or both. The

9 most common manifestation of a leather fetish is people who enjoy wearing leather. Tip: Leather Skirts For Women For women, a leather skirt or dress can be the first step to embracing a leather lifestyle. A leather skirt can be worn with boots or leather jacket to complete the look. Leather skirts are now manufactured in more than the standard colors of black or brown, so it is possible to wear leather skirts year-round. Leather is versatile enough to be worn as a short mini-skirt for a night on the town, or as a much longer tapered skirt with a professional looking blouse. When looking for a leather skirt, any design flattering your figure is your best choice. Tip: The International Mr. Leather Competition The International Mr. Leather (IML) competition was started in the early 1970s by the Gold Coast Leather bar. In the 1970s, it was known as the Mr. Gold Coast competition. In 1979, the International Mr. Leather competition was started to showcase the men who enjoy wearing leather. The first competition, held in Chicago, included 400 gay men from many areas around the world. It has branched out to include more people, and various activities such as a bootblack competition. If you are interested in attending the IML competition, a leather club, leather bar, or business must sponsor you. Two rounds of competition are held a preliminary and a final round, where the person with the most points is judged the International Mr. Leather. In previous years, winners have been chosen from the United States, Australia, and Germany. Category: Leather Skins Subcategory: Leather Skins Tip: Alum-Tanned Leather Skins Alum-tanned leather is created in the process to make alum-tanned leather. The animal skin is placed inside a mixture of aluminum salts and other proteins such as egg yolk. However, the leather skin resulting is not as soft as Chrome-tanned leather. The leather produced is white in color and is used in the book binding industry. Tip: Chrome-Tanned Leather Skins Chrome-tanned leather is the process where salts of chromium are applied to leather. The leather does not become as hard as vegetable-tanned leather, but retains its color and shape. This type of leather skin is softer than vegetable-tanned leather and is used to make saddlebags and leather chaps.

10 Tip: Rawhide Leather Skins Rawhide is not really leather. It is formed by placing thin pieces of animal skin within lime and drying it. The resulting fabric is quite hard, and can be used to make the tops of drums. The lime will remove the animal hair from the skin, and does not tan the hide as with other methods. Tip: Suede Suede is the part of the animal skin that has been split from the top layer. Many pieces of suede can be cut from an animal skin. Suede is much softer than regular leather, but since it has been split from the animal skin, it is not a hardy or durable material, and suede can dirty easily. This material is not easy to clean as well, and is not resistant to water. Suede is often used to make pants, dresses, bags, shoes, gloves, and furniture upholstery. Tip: Top-Grain Leather The phrase Top-Grain is a misnomer when applied to leather. Corrected or Top-Grain leather has had the natural grain or surface features removed from the leather. These features are usually sanded away, and are a cheaper quality than Full-Grain leather. This type of leather is processed by splitting the layers of the animal skin in a horizontal fashion producing a top-grain layer and a split. Category: Motorcycle Apparel Accessories Subcategory: Motorcycle Apparel Accessories Tip: Backpacking With A Motorcycle Backpacks are handy motorcycle accessories to take along with you during motorcycle rides. When looking for a backpack, think about how much you would like to spend, as well as your preference for the size and material of the backpack. Shopping at different sports stores will bring you one step closer to finding a heavy-duty backpack. A backpack made of cheap material will save money in the beginning, but will not be used for a long time, resulting in higher costs in the end. Determine how much can be saved by purchasing a backpack under warranty. In this way, if repairs or a replacement is needed, the backpack will be covered by the warranty. If you can afford it, spend a little more money to buy a quality backpack. Look for a medium size backpack with padded shoulders. Inspect the seams and zippers, to ensure it is strong enough to ride with. By figuring out from the beginning what type and style of backpack is wanted, this will save time and money.

11 Tip: Finding Affordable Motorcycle Gear Affordable motorcycle gear can be bought for yourself or to give as a gift. Stores undergoing liquidation usually have good prices on leather goods. In this scenario, the store's main goal is to remove the motorcycle gear from their shelves or racks. Sometimes this occurs at the lowest price possible. Overstocked stores are also another place to search for discounted motorcycle gear. Many of these stores will want to make room for new motorcycle gear, so they will sell these items at reduced prices. Based on this, do not pass on the opportunity to obtain motorcycle gear at an affordable price. Tip: Safety Courses Teach About Motorcycle Protective Gear Protective motorcycle gear is something motorcycle riders should be educated about. The information about protective gear available is heavily detailed during safety courses on how to ride and operate a motorcycle. A motorcycle safety course will highlight safe ways of driving and operating your machine. The instructor will also outline the essential motorcycle protective gear to be purchased. This gear includes helmets, boots, knee and elbow guards, and gloves to keep your hands safe. A safety course on how to protect oneself when riding a motorcycle is advantageous when someone is not entirely sure about all the motorcycle protective gear to wear. Tip: Selecting Motorcycle Gloves Motorcycle gloves are the perfect apparel to have when riding. If you search diligently, they can be purchased to match the colors of your motorcycle, or bought in the same leather material as your jacket. Even though many people love how stylish motorcycle gloves are, a glove should not be chosen for their color and design alone, but rather for its functionality. Therefore, it is advantageous to select motorcycle gloves that protect your hands and feel comfortable while operating your motorcycle. Before purchasing, try the gloves on to see if they fit, and if your fingers feel fine wearing them. Your level of comfort is very important, especially during long drives. Tip: Types of Motorcycle Helmets There are three types of motorcycle helmets available as motorcycle apparel accessories. The motorcycle helmet chosen will depend on the level of protection the motorcyclist hopes to achieve. The first type of helmet is the full-face helmet. This offers the greatest protection because it does not only protect the crown and back of he head, but it also protects the face as well. They are outfitted with face shields, which are excellent protection from the weather. The next type of helmet is the three-quarters face helmet. This does not offer as high a level of protection as the full-face helmet, because it does not have a face shield, and offers no protection from the weather. However, it

12 does protect the crown and back of the head. The third type of motorcycle helmet you can buy is the half-face helmet. The half-face helmet offers much less protection than the three-quarters face helmet, because it does not protect the back of the head. The half-face helmet is constructed without a face shield. Regardless of the type of helmet you select, try to find one offering the highest level of head protection. Category: Motorcycle Boots Subcategory: Motorcycle Boots Tip: Boots For Women Motorcyclists Women enjoy shopping for footwear, and female motorcyclists can take advantage of the large amount of women's motorcycle boots to choose from. These boots can be purchased in numerous different materials and colors. The most popular motorcycle boot this season is the Harley Davidson Ladies Burn boots. These motorcycle leather boots can retail from $70 - $100 dollars depending on the store. They are black in color with a zipper on the lateral side of the boot. The boot is fashioned with three-inch heels and lined inside. Therefore, the Harley Davidson Ladies Burn boots are both practical and pretty. Tip: Cleaning Motorcycle Boots Motorcycle boots can retain the look of when you first bought them by cleaning them on a regular basis. The first step in cleaning motorcycle boots is to use a soft dry cloth and wipe them down. This removes any loose dirt or dust on the boots, making it easy to polish. Afterwards, using a boot cleaner designed for the type of boots you have to clean and polish, apply a medium amount and clean the motorcycle boots in a circular motion, using a soft brush. Make sure all areas of the boots are wiped especially behind the ankle, which is susceptible to wear and tear. The next step is to take another clean soft cloth and buff the motorcycle boots to a shine. Tip: How To Securely Shop Online Securely shopping online for motorcycle boots is fun and easy, and decreases the risk of you losing your money, or worse your identity. When buying motorcycle boots for an online store increase your level of shopping securely by looking for online stores, which are registered with the Better Business Bureau in their hometown. Based on this information, it is then possible to check if there have been any complaints against the online store. Another tip to ensure you are shopping securely for motorcycle boots would be to call the customer service department to ask any questions you might have. Speaking to a real person on the telephone decreases your risk of being scammed. A third way of increase how secure your shopping is online would be to pay with a credit

13 card. When paying with a credit card, your money will be able to be returned to you if your motorcycle boots are not received. Tip: Waterproof Motorcycle Boots Wondering if your motorcycle boots will keep your feet dry? This is especially important factor when shopping for new motorcycle boots. Having waterproof motorcycle boots will ease your discomfort, and decrease your likelihood of develop a cold or flu if you get caught riding in the rain. When choosing waterproof motorcycle boots, first do your homework before going shopping. Numerous consumer product review magazines, and other online product review sites, provide detailed information about the various brands of motorcycle boots and how they will protect your feet from moisture. These review magazines can be used to help select a waterproof pair of boots. Tip: When To Replace Motorcycle Leather Boots With continued wear, motorcycle boots will start to look tattered. Motorcycle boots should be replaced when there are visible holes or tears in the boot. Also, if the sole of the boot is detaching from the top, it's time for new boots. Your boot could fall apart if not in good condition and it best to replace you motorcycle boots before this happens, especially during a motorcycle ride. A general rule of thumb is anytime a pair of footwear starts to look old and battered, it should be replaced with a new pair. Category: Motorcyle Jackets Subcategory: Motorcyle Jackets Tip: Benefits Of Buying Online One of the major benefits of looking online for motorcycle apparel is that it can be done in the comfort of your home. This is especially convenient for people who work, and are unable to find time to visit regular stores. Another benefit associated with buying motorcycle apparel online is the quantity of the selection. Regular clothing stores are limited in the amount of storage space they possess, whereas an online store selling motorcycle apparel would not have this limitation. These online stores are able to offer a wider selection to choose from. The third benefit of purchasing motorcycle apparel online concerns shipping. Your new motorcycle apparel can be shipped directly to your home or office. By purchasing with a credit card, the apparel can possibly be shipped for your next motorcycle ride. With all of these benefits, it is no surprise motorcyclists are choosing to purchase their apparel online. Tip: Buying Wholesale Motorcycle Jackets

14 With the increasing popularity of motorcycle clubs, riders might think about obtaining motorcycle jackets at wholesale. Buying wholesale motorcycle jackets is a wonderful way to save money on quality leather jackets, but to ensure all riders of the club are properly attired. Wholesale motorcycle jackets can be selected from various catalogues issued by motorcycle vendors, with either a print or online version of this catalogue to browse. However, buying wholesale motorcycle jackets are not only beneficial for motorcycle clubs, but are fantastic for leather apparel stores, which sell motorcycle clothing. By purchasing a large supply of motorcycle jackets, your clothing store can ensure it will always have enough jackets to meet the demand. Tip: Find Women's Leather Jacket at Auction Sites A women's leather jacket can be found for yourself, or someone else, by checking out online auction sites. Online auctions are a great place to acquire leather clothing, especially women's leather jackets. People wanting to sell clothing, and other people wanting to buy clothing, use online auction sites. Start browsing for popular auction sites online. After a simple search, the auction site will list all of the auctions available showing women's leather jackets. This item can be selected, and after a careful review of the details of the jacket, place a bid higher than the last bid posted. However, this bid should be in a price range you can afford. Depending on how long the auction is taking place, periodically check back to see if your bid is the highest. Some online auctions have the option to notify you when someone has placed a higher bid. If your auction site has this option, take advantage of it. Tip: Motorcycle Jackets For Any Occassion Motorcycle jackets make great gifts for Father's day, Christmas, and birthdays. A motorcycle jacket is a perfect Father's day gift. Many men who are avid motorcyclists would love to receive this gift, especially if customized with the names of their children and spouse. Motorcycle jackets are also popular as Christmas gifts. They are bought quite often to give in gift exchanges, because they come in standard sizes, fitting anyone. Not only are they affordable, they look very attractive on the person who receives them. Any avid motorcyclists will also enjoy getting a new motorcycle jacket for their birthday. Usually a group of people, such as family members or coworkers can combine their money to affordably buy a high quality motorcycle jacket With these ideas, motorcycle jackets are definitely enjoyed when received as gifts. Category: Riding Apparel Subcategory: Riding Apparel Tip: English Riding Apparel

15 Anyone who has had the pleasure of attending a riding competition can attest to the beauty of English riding. English riding apparel consists of a dressage jacket, breeches, a show helmet, and boots. Unlike Western riding apparel which is more flamboyant and uniquely each rider's design, English riding apparel conforms to a standard dress code, e.g. knee-high leather boots. Tip: Leather Riding Belts Leather riding belts are wonderful accessories to your riding apparel. When buying a leather riding belt for yourself or as a gift, the belt should be purchased in standard colors of brown or black. This is especially important if the leather riding belt is going to be used during formal competitions. Every leather riding belt will be designed with its own buckles. A shiny brass or silver buckle can be chosen to complement your dressage jacket. Leather riding belts are very affordable at $25 to $35 for a 24-inch belt. Tip: Riding Apparel: Quality or Price Price should not be the determining factor when buying riding apparel. As the old adage says, you will get what you pay for. This is particularly true of leather riding boots. On the other hand, only a small amount of us can choose to buy a quality item without even looking at the price. Therefore, the decision to buy riding boots should be based on a combination of the quality of the riding apparel, along as it is at a price you can afford. A good rule of thumb is 60/40. For example, the quality of the riding boots is 60% more important than the price you will pay for these riding boots. By keeping the 60/40 rule in mind, shopping for leather riding boots will become a whole lot easier. Tip: Western Riding Apparel Western riding is similar to the riding done in Spain and Mexico, and then spreading to the southern and Midwestern United States. Western riding apparel consists of clothing usually seen on cowboys. Hence, Western riding apparel will consists of long sleeve shirts sometimes in a plaid pattern, jeans, cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, along with leather chaps and spurs. Western riding apparel has been is often seen during a rodeo, where the rider will also carry a length of rope to lasso a calf. Unlike English riding apparel, in which the rider conforms to a standard dress code, Western riding apparel is more flamboyant and uniquely each rider's design.