Rio Grande do Sul has a genuine tradition of quality leather craft rooted in the cattle culture of the pampas, and Porto Alegre is the best place to buy it. The most distinctive gaúcho leather goods are boots — tall riding boots and short work boots made to traditional patterns, available in stores along Rua dos Andradas and in the Mercado Público. A good pair of handmade gaúcho boots is one of the best souvenirs from the region: practical, durable, and actually made here rather than imported.
Beyond boots, look for bombachas (the traditional wide-legged gaúcho trousers, comfortable and surprisingly practical), facas gaúchas (traditional knives with ornate handles, sold in many sizes and at all price points), and chimarrão equipment — cuias in silver, ceramic, or natural gourd, and bombillas from plain metal to engraved silver. The Mercado Público has the best selection of chimarrão equipment and the prices are honest. For boots and clothing, the dedicated gaúcho stores along Rua dos Andradas are more reliable than market stalls. The Loja Gaúcha concept stores, of which several exist in the city centre, curate the best regional products under one roof and are the easiest one-stop option for gifts and souvenirs.