Let’s Dive into Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars promise a blend of style, durability, and functionality for your canine companion. Manufactured by Wingo Outdoors, these collars boast water and abrasion-resistant polyester, a secure buckle, and a nickel-plated D-ring. But do they live up to the hype?
My own search for a durable yet stylish collar for my German Shepherd, “Shadow,” led me to the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars. He’s an active dog, always running through the woods and swimming in the lake, which quickly destroys most collars. I needed something that could withstand his adventures without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the vibrant color and the robust feel of the polyester webbing. It felt significantly more substantial than some of the thinner nylon collars I’d used in the past. My initial assessment was positive; the collar seemed well-constructed and ready for some serious testing.
Compared to a generic nylon collar from a big-box store and a supposedly “tactical” collar from another brand, the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar stood out. The generic collar felt flimsy and lacked a secure attachment point, while the “tactical” collar was overly stiff and uncomfortable for Shadow. The Wingo Outdoors collar seemed to strike the perfect balance between durability and comfort.
My first impression was excitement. I was eager to see how this collar would hold up to Shadow’s rugged lifestyle and the elements. It looked like a significant upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar involved a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. Shadow was off-leash for much of the time, exploring the trails and splashing through streams. I kept a close eye on the collar, checking for any signs of discomfort or chafing.
The collar performed admirably in wet, muddy conditions. The polyester material repelled water, preventing the collar from becoming waterlogged and heavy. Even after a full day of adventure, the collar dried quickly and showed no signs of staining or fading.
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar was surprisingly easy to adjust, even with Shadow’s thick fur. The side-squeeze buckle was simple to operate, allowing for quick adjustments as needed. Shadow seemed completely comfortable and unbothered by the collar, indicating a good fit and ergonomic design.
No issues arose during the initial use, no chafing, no loose stitching, and a very happy pup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of nearly daily use, the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar has held up remarkably well. Shadow has worn it through countless hikes, swims, and even a few impromptu mud baths. The collar still looks almost new.
Durability is definitely a strong suit. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, such as fraying, stretching, or fading. The nickel-plated D-ring remains secure and rust-free, and the side-squeeze buckle continues to function flawlessly.
Maintaining the collar is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with water is usually all it takes to remove dirt and mud. For tougher stains, a mild soap and a scrub brush do the trick. It’s a low-maintenance product that requires minimal effort to keep in top condition.
Compared to other collars I’ve used in the past, the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar definitely outperforms them in terms of durability and resistance to the elements. Previous collars often showed signs of wear after just a few weeks of similar use. This collar still appears in great condition after many weeks of hard use.
Breaking Down the Features of Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars
Specifications
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars are designed for larger breeds with necks ranging from 16 to 27 inches, fitting dogs weighing approximately 50 to 140 pounds. The Manufacturer is Wingo Outdoors. The collar features a side-squeeze buckle for secure closure and is made from water and abrasion-resistant polyester.
The collar has a 1-inch wide webbing with 1,500+ pound break strength, providing a secure connection point for leashes, and the nickel-plated D-ring resists rust and corrosion. The polyester material is crucial for its water and abrasion resistance, ensuring longevity and minimizing odor retention. The adjustable size caters to a wide range of large breeds.
Performance & Functionality
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar excels in its primary function: safely and comfortably securing your dog while providing a reliable attachment point for a leash. Its simple design lends itself well to everyday functionality. The secure buckle offers peace of mind during walks, and the strong webbing inspires confidence in its durability.
One of the strengths of this product is that the simple design requires no improvements. A small weakness is that only larger dogs are accounted for. It meets my expectations and more.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is high, especially considering the price point. The polyester webbing feels robust and well-stitched, while the side-squeeze buckle is both durable and easy to operate.
There is virtually no learning curve. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for my dog and easy adjustments for me.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-quality materials and robust construction, the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar is built to last. I anticipate it providing years of reliable use with minimal maintenance.
The collar is easy to clean with soap and water, making it a low-maintenance product. Its resistance to water and abrasion further enhances its longevity, making it a great choice for active dogs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars do not come with any additional accessories, and the customization options are limited to color choices. However, the collar’s standard 1-inch width makes it compatible with most standard leashes and ID tags.
Owners can easily attach personalized tags or small accessories to the D-ring. However, the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars don’t accommodate any brand specific accessories.
Pros and Cons of Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars
Pros
- Durable and Water-Resistant Material: The polyester webbing withstands tough conditions and dries quickly.
- Secure Buckle: The side-squeeze buckle provides a reliable and safe closure.
- Adjustable Size: Accommodates a wide range of large breeds (16-27 inch neck).
- Nickel-Plated D-Ring: Resists rust and corrosion, providing a secure leash attachment point.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the quality and durability offered.
Cons
- Limited size range: Only fits larger dogs (50-140 lbs).
- Limited Customization: Few options for personalization beyond color.
Who Should Buy Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars?
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars are perfect for owners of large, active dogs who need a durable and reliable collar that can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. This is a great purchase for hikers, campers, and anyone with a dog that loves water. If you have a Labrador, German Shepherd, or other large breed, this is a reliable and affordable option.
Owners of small or medium-sized dogs should skip this product. The collar is specifically designed for larger breeds and may be too bulky or uncomfortable for smaller dogs.
A must-have accessory would be a durable leash and a personalized ID tag. I have used a paracord leash and aluminum tag that have worked well.
Conclusion on Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars
The Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars are an excellent choice for dog owners seeking a durable, functional, and affordable collar for their large breeds. The quality materials, secure buckle, and water-resistant design make it a standout product in its price range.
At $9.86, the price is absolutely justified. You are getting a collar that rivals more expensive options in terms of durability and performance.
I would highly recommend the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collars to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting collar for their canine companion. If you need a collar that can handle your dog’s active lifestyle and withstand the elements, this is the perfect solution. Go ahead and equip your furry friend with the Wingo Outdoors Artisan Dog Collar and watch them conquer the trails with comfort and style!