Durango Leather

Home of Appaloosa Trading Co.

by Holly Henderson

In the Animas River Valley amid the San Juan Mountains sits Durango, Colorado, a popular resort destination for fishermen. Divided by a river, Durango gets its name from the Basque word meaning “water town.” But to many a cowboy, the city is better known for its leather goods than its waters. Since 1982, Durango has been home to Appaloosa Trading Co. — deemed “one of the best venues for all things leather” by Fodor’s Travel. Owner and leatherworker Michael Gibson is devoted to preserving the Western tradition and the artistry of his craft, creating original designs from the best of exotic skins. These days the company offers an assortment of silver products and designer fashions in addition to its almost overwhelming selection of leather goods. Appaloosa’s most impressive stylings are arguably its fine leather fashion belts, like those of the Dinevin collection. In Cafe Viejo, red, and turquoise, these hand-carved belts feature intricate floral tooling on both the leather straps and nickel buckles ($149).

FYI: 970.385.1722, www.appaloosadurango.com.

Filed under: Western, Shopping, Fashion, Belts, Buckles