If you’re a leather lover or handbag enthusiast who’s ever fallen down a YouTube rabbit hole on luxury bag craftsmanship, you’ve likely encountered Tanner Leatherstein. Known for his candid reviews and leather deconstruction videos, this leather expert has become an unlikely internet sensation. This is especially for those fed up with overpriced designer bags and curious about what’s actually worth buying.
But beyond the jaw-dropping “how much does this $5,000 bag really cost to make?” videos, Tanner Leatherstein (real name: Volkan Yilmaz) is also a designer and founder of PECOGO, his own leather goods label. And while he’s often pointing out which luxury bags aren’t worth the markup, he’s also more than happy to spotlight bags that are worth your money.
So, what bags pass the Tanner test? Let’s dive into the most underrated and best-made leather bags, as praised by the man himself.
Who Is Tanner Leatherstein, and Why Should You Trust Him?
Tanner Leatherstein isn’t just a content creator—he’s a trained leather artisan with a background in chemical engineering, giving him a unique understanding of leather tanning processes. With decades of experience (he started working in his family’s tannery in Turkey), he approaches every review with technical precision and transparency.
Whether he’s slicing open a Hermès clutch or testing a budget Amazon bag, his videos focus on leather quality, construction, tanning processes, and value—not branding or hype.
1. Il Bisonte – Italy’s Hidden Gem
While everyone knows Italian leather equals quality, not everyone knows about Il Bisonte—and that’s a mistake. Tanner Leatherstein has repeatedly praised the brand for its honest pricing, excellent leather, and authentic Italian craftsmanship.
What Makes It Special:
Uses vegetable-tanned cowhide that develops a rich patina over time. Bags are handmade in Tuscany with a rustic, artisanal aesthetic. Simple silhouettes that prioritize quality over trends.
Why Tanner Loves It:
Tanner has dissected multiple Il Bisonte bags and consistently gives them high marks for durability, aging, and material integrity. In an era of flashy logos, Il Bisonte is quietly timeless.
Best Bag to Try: Il Bisonte Small Shoulder Bag
Retail Price: ~$400–$600
Tanner Rating: 9/10 for material and honest branding
2. Polène “Numéro Un” – The French Beauty with Unexpected Value
Polène has garnered attention from influencers, but even Tanner Leatherstein couldn’t ignore its value-driven quality. After deconstructing the Numéro Un, he found that the leather quality and craftsmanship exceeded expectations—especially for a fashion-forward brand at an accessible price point.
What Makes It Special:
Made from Italian smooth calfskin with a structured, architectural design. Lined with micro-suede or leather, depending on the version. Handmade in Spain with fine attention to edge finishing and stitching.
Why Tanner Loves It:
He was particularly impressed with how much leather was used, the clean internal construction, and edge paint quality—details typically reserved for higher price brackets.
Retail Price: ~$420
Tanner Rating: 8.5/10 for accessible luxury and finish quality
3. Cuyana Classic Structured Tote – Sustainable Meets Smart Design
While Cuyana may not scream luxury at first glance, Tanner has recognised it as one of the best examples of modern, minimalist design done right. The brand uses Italian leather and emphasises sustainability and conscious craftsmanship.
What Makes It Special:
Constructed from Argentine or Italian full-grain leather. Sleek silhouette that bridges workwear and everyday function. No logos, just clean lines and intentional detailing.
Why Tanner Loves It:
Tanner has applauded Cuyana for transparency in sourcing, and he particularly likes that the bags age well over time. He’s noted the grain integrity and weight of the leather as above average for its price point.
Retail Price: ~$295
Tanner Rating: 8/10 for sustainability and smart material choices
5. Saddleback Leather Co. – The Rugged, Indestructible Choice
If you’re into bags that can survive anything (yes, even a zombie apocalypse), Saddleback Leather Co. is one of Tanner’s personal favorites for unapologetically thick, rugged leather.
What Makes It Special:
Made from full-grain boot leather that’s nearly a quarter inch thick. 100-year warranty (!!). Minimal seams, no breakable parts—built like old-school saddlery.
Why Tanner Loves It:
This is a leather geek’s dream. He’s praised Saddleback’s bags for being over-engineered in the best way possible. While they’re heavy and utilitarian, the sheer durability is unbeatable.
Best Bet: Saddleback Leather Satchel or Front Pocket Backpack
Retail Price: ~$500–$700
Tanner Rating: 9/10 for indestructibility and leather quality
6. Carl Friedrik – Clean, Luxe, and Surprisingly Affordable
Carl Friedrik might fly under the radar, but Tanner has noted the brand’s great use of Italian Vachetta leather, often found in far more expensive bags. Their unisex styles make them perfect for anyone looking for form, function, and European polish.
What Makes It Special:
Clean Scandinavian design sensibility. Made in Europe with Italian Vachetta leather (same style used on Louis Vuitton trim). Structured, smart silhouettes perfect for work and travel.
Why Tanner Loves It:
In his reviews, he’s praised the brand for not cutting corners, especially on interior finishes and leather weight. For a bag that looks like a $1000+ briefcase, it’s a steal.
Retail Price: ~$450–$650
Tanner Rating: 8.5/10 for understated luxury
Final Thoughts: What Makes a Tanner-Approved Bag?
Tanner Leatherstein has made a career (and cult following) out of asking one simple question: Is this bag worth what you’re paying for it? The bags above may not carry the same prestige as Hermès or Chanel, but they more than hold their own in terms of leather quality, craftsmanship, and longevity—without the inflated designer price tag.
Whether you’re hunting for your next everyday tote or building a collection based on real value, Tanner’s reviews offer a refreshing reality check. And if you take his word for it, a well-crafted leather bag doesn’t need a logo to be worth loving.
