Our Story
At Jakkals Vellies, we believe leather is more than a material — it’s a living story. From the rugged plains of the Kalahari to the rhythm of city streets, our shoes and leather goods are made to journey with you, carrying memories, adventures, and character with every step.
Born from a love of authentic craftsmanship, Jakkals Vellies was created to celebrate Swakopmund’s, rich tradition of veldskoen-making while giving it a modern edge. Each pair is hand-crafted with care, using premium hides selected for their natural strength, texture, and beauty.
Quality That Lasts
Rooted in Heritage
Sustainability & Respect
The Craft
From seal to game, every hide tells its own story. At Jakkals Vellies Namibia, we believe leather should be allowed to speak for itself. That’s why every piece is carefully planned and stitched by hand, letting the natural character of each hide shine through. The result is leather goods that are not only comfortable and durable, but also truly unique. No two pairs are ever the same. Unlike many others, we don’t import and re-sell. Every single product is proudly manufactured in our own factory here in Namibia, 100% authentic and 100% pure leather, guaranteed.
The Hides Behind the Craft
More about Seal Leather
Seal leather is a proudly Namibian leather and has long been valued for its balance of softness and strength. The hides are carefully tanned to bring out their natural suppleness, making them exceptionally comfortable from the very first wear. Over time, seal leather moulds to the shape of your foot, creating a fit that feels uniquely yours while retaining its durability.
What makes seal leather special is its resilience. Despite being soft to the touch, it is naturally hard-wearing and resistant to scuffs and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for footwear that needs to handle both everyday use and the demands of outdoor adventures, without losing its comfort or style.
More about Bovine Leather
Bovine leather is one of the most versatile and reliable hides, known for its smooth finish and flexibility. At Jakkals Vellies, we use only well-tanned bovine hides, ensuring each piece has the right balance of softness and strength. The result is leather that feels comfortable straight away, yet durable enough to withstand years of daily wear.
Its adaptability makes bovine leather perfect for footwear and accessories alike. It’s strong, resistant to stretching, and maintains its shape over time, meaning your vellies, sandals, or bags keep their structure and style even with frequent use. If you’re looking for dependable, everyday leather with a polished look, bovine is a classic choice.
Game Leather
Game leather carries a story of the wild. Naturally textured with unique marks and grains, no two hides are ever the same — each piece tells its own tale. Known for its rare combination of softness and strength, game leather offers comfort while remaining remarkably tough and resilient, making it ideal for shoes that need to go the distance.
Because it’s naturally breathable, game leather adjusts well across seasons, keeping your feet cool in the heat and warm in the cold. Its rugged texture gives footwear a distinct, earthy character while also resisting scratches and scuffs. For those who value durability, individuality, and a true connection to nature, kudu leather is unmatched.
Why Jakkals?
At Jakkals Vellies, quality and precision are not optional – they are the foundation. I believe that everything must have its place, be cared for, and be crafted with intention. Hard work and quality are non-negotiable values, and that is what Jakkals Vellies represents.
The story began with my nickname, “Jakkals,” given to me during my travels through the Namib Desert. Like many Namibians, I have large feet with a high arch, and finding the right fit was always a challenge. Standard shoes simply weren’t made for us, especially those elusive half-sizes. So, I decided to make my first pair of shoes, and from that step, Jakkals Vellies was born.
Every pair we make carries a piece of Namibia. We use only pure Namibian leather and seal leather harvested responsibly under strict rules and quotas to create footwear that is as authentic as it is durable. Jakkals Vellies is more than a shoe; it is a symbol of Namibian craftsmanship, resourcefulness, and pride.
“From veld-tested vellies to timeless bags and belts —
our leather is made to last, crafted for every step of your story.”