A faint smell of leather welcomes you when you step into Hoofs & Hides on Residency Road. A quick glance at the small store is enough to gauge that it is well-stocked and has an inventory of almost all kinds of merch ranging from footwear to accessories. The store’s inventory of shoes and bags covers almost every inch of the store space. Sharp-looking formal shoes, comfy loafers, and brunch-ready sandals for men made from calf as well as goat and sheep leather sit alongside pretty-looking slip-on trainers in blue, yellow, silver, and tan for women. They are made from goat leather we are told. We spotted Oxfords, monk straps, Chelsea boots, and round tips amongst men’s footwear.
Their collection of messenger bags and backpacks and satchels are perfect for boardrooms while still being hip. Duffel bags, travel bags, and laptop backpacks and sleeves are available too along with bi-fold and tri-fold (yaaaas!) wallets, and belts for men. For the ladies, there are cute rectangular wallets in yellow, blue, and red as well as long purses and sling purses. Handbags are available in leather and non-leather and come in designs such as shoulder, tote, and day bags. Jackets are limited, but that’s probably because they are made to order. The store lets you customise your own jacket and lets you select your own design from their catalogue or if you bring your own design. Biker, bomber, racer — you name it and consider it done.