“As Good-Looking As Practical”

“I've been an avid camper and hiker since the early 1960s, and hiked and camped in Asia, India, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, South & Central America, plus all over the US and Canada. I have used leather-covered botas, such as these, for over 30 years, and am completely "sold" on them for use in most situations or environments. As well as "ordinary" hiking & camping, I also enjoy "reenactor" outdoors sports, re-creating early-American activities. While I own "coopered" wooden canteens, and even a big gourd canteen, I sometimes take the 50-oz. bota! The pigskin cover resembles deerskin, and the very light, very-durable, bota is perfect for all-day carry. In fact, I've recently bought new 32- and 50-ounce botas--- though my "older" ones show no signs of "wearing out!" (I STILL use a leather-jacketed bota I'd bought in 1978!) The only "problem" is that the shoulder straps could be heavier, though many years' use has not hurt the strap on my 50-ounce bota. For looks more than anything, though, I admit I'd swapped the old strap for braided thongs on my 32-oz. bota, after three years' use. Suede-covered botas are ideal for camera-stalking and hunting, for they do not "slosh" like a rigid canteen when partially full, or make noise if struck or rubbed by branches! They're great, even for winter use-- just shorten the strap a bit, and wear it UNDER your coat! A squishy silicone cup goes easily in a pocket and makes it a snap to drink from your "chest-riding" bota. For ultra-light hiking, too, a bota can't be beat, as almost all the weight is the water you're carrying! Of all the botas I've seen, the "Boulder-Bota's Best!" I've never found a better brand-- either in "materiel" or appearance. It's rare to find a beautifully-made product that's made beautifully; and is, simply, beautiful.”