Our Story

We are AK Leather Co., a tight-knit team - currently Ivan, Emily, Maya, Alysha and Nevaeh - who pour heart and hand into every piece right here on the Homer Spit of Alaska. When you choose our products, you’re investing in unmatched quality, supported by our lifetime warranty and belief in the beauty of “Raw Refined” craftsmanship.

Our journey began over 10 years ago when Ivan - our founder and owner - first fell under the spell of leatherwork in Cape Town, South Africa. That passion led to the creation of his first venture, Volstruis, crafting ostrich-leather wallets, belts, and other good in small batches in Portland, OR. Before long, he expanded Volstruis into other leather styles and began doing pop-up sales around the U.S.

In 2020, Ivan followed his heart back to his roots in Homer, Alaska, launching AK Leather Co. and consolidating production in his hometown a year later when the Spit Store opened in 2021. Over the years, Alaska’s raw landscapes, seasonal rhythms, and logistical challenges have only deepened our dedication - because making great things here matters.

We source most of our leathers domestically, build with solid brass hardware, and abide by a workshop mantra: We don’t make shitty things. That Eans every cut, stitch, and finishing details gets our full attention.

From exotic beginnings in South Africa to hometown crafted excellence in Homer, our story is one of evolution, passion, and staying true to place. Welcome to AK Leather Co. - where quality is personal, craftsmanship is local, and every piece carries a story.

Our Mantra is simple…

We don’t make shitty things. It’s our no-BS promise that every product we put out is built to last, crafted with intention, and made with pride right here in Homer, Alaska.

  • Most of our leathers are sourced from tanneries within the United States, with a few select hides coming from trusted tanneries in Europe. You can learn more on our ‘Our Leather’ page.

  • Yes! Every piece is handmade by our small team right here in Homer, Alaska. We design, cut, stitch, and finish everything ourselves - no outsourcing, no mass production.

  • We’ll ship your order anywhere, any time of year. Whether you’re in Alaska or across the globe, we’ve got you covered.

  • Our Spit Store in Homer, AK is open seasonally during the summer months - usually May through September. Exact dates and hours may vary - check our socials or contact us directly for current info!

Follow our journey.

Just over a week left to shop in person - and here’s a peek at what’s still on our shelves. From simple totes to wallets, toiletry and dopp kits, and all our classic gear — once these are gone, they’re gone for the 2025 season
You can never go wrong with our classic Octo design! Available in unisex t-shirts, lightweight women’s hoodies, and heavyweight unisex crewnecks and hoodies. Which is your favorite?
Labor Day Weekend Sale is here! This Friday Aug. 29th through Monday Sep. 1st, swing by AK Leather Co. for special holiday weekend deals: • 15% off all regular priced belts & clothing • Sale items priced up to 35% off • Select ite
OTLAS 2.0 is BACK — and better than ever… Crewnecks: Port (restock) + NEW Light Pink & Baby Blue Hoodies: now in Royal Blue, Maroon & Olive Green Snag your favorites while they last — these won’t stay in stock for l
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Kia! Meet Kia! Born and raised right here in Homer, she’s 16 and already a pro at keeping busy on the Spit. If you’ve grabbed a coffee at Coal Town this summer, you may have seen her there—now she’s helping us
Peanut perfection… Our Peanut Napa Excel is one of the softest, smoothest leathers you’ll ever feel — buttery to the touch, warm in tone, and full of subtle undertones that catch the light beautifully. We’ve fallen in love wi
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Emily! Our store manager and social media manager here at AK Leather Co. She’s been shopping with us since we first opened in 2021 and officially joined the team in March 2025, starting in production. After running the store a