The Story of Oak & Leather – By Daniel Hayes
I never set out to start a leather goods brand. I just wanted to create something real—something that would last.
My love for leather began in my grandfather’s workshop. He was a man of few words, but his hands told stories. I’d watch him work for hours, shaping rawhide into bags that would outlive the men who carried them. He taught me that good leather isn’t just about looks—it’s about character, patience, and craftsmanship.
For years, I took a different path. I sat in boardrooms, answered emails, and climbed the corporate ladder. But every time I picked up a mass-produced bag, I felt the difference. It lacked soul. It lacked the care, the weight, the story that a well-made leather bag should carry.
So, I left that life behind. I went back to what I loved. With my own hands, I started crafting bags the way my grandfather once did—cutting, stitching, and finishing each piece with intention. No shortcuts. No compromises. Just full-grain leather, solid craftsmanship, and designs that get better with time.
Oak & Leather isn’t about trends or mass production. It’s about creating something that will be with you for years, aging with you, telling your story. Because a great leather bag isn’t just an accessory—it’s a companion for life.