Most everything.  Four Winds products are entirely made by hand using techniques unchanged for centuries. In fact, even many of the tools we use are hand-forged.  In a society of evermore mass production we offer the opposite, for people who appreciate an authentic work from the heart.   Slight irregularities in both the leather and labor are natural, even desirable, adding one-of-a-kind character to each piece.  Cowboy gear evolved from Moorish, tribal and Western cultures.  It is this history that has inspired us for over twenty years, creating a truly original and innovative look, distinct from anything else on the market.  With a deep respect for tradition we design for modern life, keeping style, quality and customer satisfaction always the priorities.

Our goal is for you to be completely happy with Four Winds products and service.  Any item can be returned in good condition within 30 days of your purchase for a full refund of purchase price or credit toward something else.  In order to process your return most efficiently and quickly please ask for a RETURN AUTHORIZATION number by using CONTACT US. 

All our bags and belts are made of the finest top-grain cowhide with tough goatskin lacing for durable construction.

The top-grain cowhide has been finely finished and sealed to be water and stain resistant, so it should need little maintenance for quite a while.  As with any fine leather, it will become softer and more supple with use, gaining character, becoming yours. With time and wear, eventually a conditioner may be applied as you would with a saddle or boots.  Lexol and other good leather treatments can be found at shoe repair and tack shops.

If the bag has a simple strap and buckle, once you determine the length you prefer you may trim off any extra with a sharp scissors or razorblade, rounded or to a point.  Since there is no stitching to unravel, no problem.  Braided straps cannot be shortened, though some are adjustable.

We make nearly all the hardware for our belts and bags – conchos, buckles, medallions, etc.  Originally we designed some switchplates for our own home, made by Four Winds metal craftsmen, using the same techniques as the hardware for the leather.  With many visitors asking us to make some for them, we realized the demand for switchplates of this quality and style and added them to Four Winds’ collection.

We employ Moroccan artisans because of their rare talent and skill- and because their cultural background allows them to understand the Four Winds concept.  They are well paid by any standard and we are gratified to have helped them to prosper.   Our crew of about fifteen men and women are lead by master craftsmen renowned throughout Morocco who have worked with us for twenty years.

No.  Morocco requires all children to remain in school through at least the age of fourteen and employment is not allowed before that.  The traditional arts are a major sector of the economy and are still largely sustained by an apprenticeship system beginning once school is finished.   Learning a valuable skill often allows for a better standard of living than does a more advanced education for which there is yet more supply than demand.