Tag / growlerwerks

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Grilling Gear You Need for A Summer Barbecue

Let’s step outside of the menswear world for a second (well, halfway out). Looking to throw one last summer BBQ? Or at least one more? That’s what we’re talking about today on The Style Guide. Why the switch from our beloved #menswear to something a little grittier and gastronomically inclined? Well, the world’s not all about men’s style, for one. And if you’ve poked around on some of your favorite men’s lifestyle sites (like this one, maybe!), you’ll realize that plenty of these places — particularly our Style Guide pals Bespoke Post and Huckberry — stock a heck of a lot of effective, functionally rugged grilling gear and some tasty culinary staples, to boot. And if you read this blog, you already know how to dress for your next barbecue — no need to worry about that. So with that being said, I’ve compiled it all into one handy men’s shopping guide for you — from a durable grilling apron  to a tough backyard grill, you’ll find it in the list below. And if you’re not the guy manning the grill? At least you”ll be prepared with other backyard essentials like a stylish Bluetooth speaker — right? Have questions for me related to other essential men’s gear picks? Find me on Twitter, and leave a missive in the comments as needed. Fire up that grill and get to work!

Editor’s note: Portions of this post use affiliate links, from which a small commission might be earned. Thanks for supporting brands that support The Style Guide!

The Grill: PK Grills PK360 Grill and Smoker with Rib Rack — $799.98 

A highly functional, highly durable grill with a stainless steel rib rack built right in.

Start with what’s important, right? You need a dependable grill at the center of the action — and it helps if it’s got built-in functionality going for it. The PK Grills PK360 is “nearly indesctructible,” and it features a stainless steel rib rack built right in. It’s a marked changed aesthetically from other grills you might be used to using, and that’s not all bad — you’ve got more options with the PK Grills PK360, and a heck of a lot of value included.

The Tunes:  AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker — $249

A handsome, portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for these last weeks of summer grilling.

If you’re firing up the grill, why not fire up some of your favorite tunes? Great music keeps your grilling humming along, it keeps your guests happy … it’s a win-win. And the dependable AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is the aesthetically pleasing, crisply designed and relatively affordable Bluetooth speaker you never knew you needed.

Greats

The Apron: Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron — $75

Filson

The same sort of quality in an apron that you’d expect from a legendary Filson bag.

Don’t discount the utility of the perfect grilling apron. OK, perhaps the Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron isn’t perfect … but at least a guy can dream? Made with the same rugged, durable touch you’d expect from Filson, the Antique Tin Cloth Apron is a heck of a lot nicer than those plastic, red-checkered aprons floating around grocery stores. It won’t look half-bad hanging up in your garage or workshop, either.

The Much-Needed Essential: Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt — $20

Thieffry

The rare oven mitt that actually looks … stylish? Yep, it’s not too good to be true.

Handling hot dishes or plates and just grabbing for whatever’s in the area? Not cool, man. The Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt? Distinctly cool — or at least, better-looking than other oven mitts on the market. And when even your oven mitt earns you style points, you can rest assured it’ll be a great day of grilling … at least, one can hope?
Timex
The Beverage: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $149

GrowlerWerks

A surprisingly stylish and underrated way to keep your favorite craft beer fresh and cold.

Certainly, not everyone enjoys knocking back a ice-cold beer (and if you legally can’t because you’re under 21 … my apologies). But whether your a guest or the host, something as effective and underrated as the GrowlerWerks uKeg is very, VERY handy to have around at a weekend BBQ — especially if it’s stocked with the best beer to bring to a barbecue, ehh? It’s a mini-keg that’s the size of a half-gallon growler, so I’d say you should save this for folks who appreciate the good stuff. The stainless steel vessel and brass carrying handle on the GrowlerWerks uKeg will only get better with age — as is the case with the best men’s gear out there.

The Bottle Opener: Owen and Fred “You Earned It Bottle Opener” — $23

Owen and Fred

A well-designed, durable bottle opener that’s fun to have around at parties — and on the daily.

Serving some choice bottled beer in addition to the finest stuff you can fit into that GrowlerWerks uKeg? American-made menswear brand Owen and Fred offers you a little encouragement in the form of this smart-looking, durable and one-of-a-kind bottle opener.
Frank And Oak

The Grilling Essentials: Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set — $49.98

Schmidt Brothers

Well-made grilling essentials offered at an affordable price.

The list continues to get longer, ehh? Add some style points to your grilling lineup with the functional Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set, a finely crafted set of stainless steel grilling appliances. In short, it’s an affordably priced package of grilling gear that just so happens to represent an underrated and premium upgrade.

Timex

The Cutting Board: Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board — $29.98

A premium way to serve your favorite snacks during your next cookout.

For serving small bites for your guests to snack on as you toil away in the heat of the grill, pick up the Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board, a handsome way to serve gourmet snacks. It’s again a small upgrade that’s pleasing to look at and should go well with whatever rugged-refined decor you’ve got going on in your patio or living room — are we on the same page?
Frank And Oak
The Plates: Norden 8-Inch Plates — $40

A serious upgrade over regular paper or plastic plates.

Make no mistake, Norden makes plates that are, to put it lightly, no laughing matter. Handsomely designed and quite pricey, you might want to save your Norden dishware for smaller parties or special occasions — but they’re a nice upgrade — again with the upgrades — over paper plates and the like.
Florsheim
The Necessary Condiments: Ashman Manufacturing Co. Bourbon Steak Sauce — $8 AND Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — $5.99

Bespoke Post

Take your pick between two tasty condiments — or bring both.

Want to be the hit of the party? And if not the hit, maybe a close second? Bring an array of tasty condiments to season your favorite grilled meats and vegetables — as crazy as it might sound, it just might work. Ashman’s Bourbon Steak Sauce and Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup are two unexpected choices that should add plenty of flavor to any dish.

When it comes to planning the perfect barbecue, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping your guests entertained, well-fed and happy — and hopefully, some of this gear helps you do that. It all starts with your gear, and the PK360 Grill is as functional and well-made a piece as any. The little details — from the Filson Tin Cloth Apron right on through to condiments like Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — really can help make your time grilling (and kicking back with a beer!) that much more enjoyable. Great tunes are a must, too — make the AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker an essential in your home, in your office and at your next barbecue. Take it from a guy who loves his rugged essentials — a small touch like the Owen and Fred brass bottle opener seen above deserves a spot on your back patio table as you grill away. And what’s the thing that brings people together the most? GREAT beer. Just kidding. But certainly, the GrowlerWerks uKeg is a nice way to serve your guests quality craft beers. Does that fill out your shopping list? I certainly hope so. Let me know any thoughts in the comments below, and supplement the above grilling advice with men’s style tips gleaned from my Instagram.

Happy grilling!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Memorial Day This Year

Check your calendars, hurry — it’s Memorial Day weekend comin’ at ya!  And if you’re wondering how to dress for Memorial Day, you’ll like today’s post. It’s the first real full summer weekend, and that’s much-welcomed around these parts. If you missed out on taking a spring road trip or hitting the road for spring break, it’s a chance to get away from town and hopefully enjoy some lovely weather and time with friends & the fam.  I’ll be trekking down to Florida for a  great long weekend with family, and I had the chance to travel to upstate New York for Memorial Day last year — both prime chances to break out some stellar #menswear. So, let’s assume you’ve got gear like a stylish leather weekend bag and a functional dopp kit at the ready — what are you going to wear at your destination? Be it exploring a boardwalk, strolling through a quaint downtown or catching some rays, today’s Style Guide suggestion has it all. Let me know what you think over on Twitter, and keep up with my fast-moving style on Instagram.

The Shirt: Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe — $84

Criquet Shirts

A new take on the polo shirt, with a tailored fit and comfortable fabric.

Listen up: If you’re looking for a warm-weather staple that can work just as stylishly at a Memorial Day barbecue as at a patio bar, pick up the Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe. Like the much-loved Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — as seen in this #OOTD —  the Club Shirt is a modern, refined and comfortable take on your favorite polo shirt. It features both retro details, like cool stripes plus contrasting sleeve cuffs and collar, and a streamlined fit. Yessir, the Club Shirt could be a new summer go-to. Be sure to layer up with transitional spring outerwear if gets chilly.

Sutro Footwear

The Bottoms: Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder 311 Board Shorts — $138 OR Alex Crane Bo Shorts — $59.98

Alex Crane

Two options, two scenarios. Grab the right pair of shorts for play, grab the left pair of shorts to swim.

So, we’re tackling two different scenarios here. Let’s say your Memorial Day involves some time at the pool, the beach or the lake — break out the retro-inspired, durable and stylish Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder 311 Board Shorts. They’re made by hand, the color scheme is neutral and sharp, and they’re more tailored than your average pair of swim trunks. If, on the other hand, you’re manning the grill, the Alex Crane Bo Shorts, in a neutral and unexpected Sand color, are a prime pick (and they’ll contrast nicely with the striped Club Shirt).

The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie — $108

SeaVees

Versatile kicks that are a favorite of this blog for several reasons — including the easygoing good looks.

Is it any surprise that we’re reaching for classic, easily wearable and versatile slip-on sneakers like the SeaVees Huntington Middie? They’re a favorite for a number of reasons, from the durable chukka-like cut to the clean white color and the ability to wear to the beach, to the pool or to the boardwalk. You could even wear these ones with slim light wash jeans as you travel to your Memorial Day getaway, and they’re perfect to wear to kick back over a cold brew.

The Watch: Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch — $449.98

Deep Blue Watches

A striking watch with tough specs and dependable style for the road, for the beach and beyond.

Here’s where we really drive home the idea of versatile, accessible style. Heading out for a four-day weekend? You just might be all set with one watch — that’s right, just one. The Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch  is that very timepiece, what with the durable specs to work on land or at sea, with great style to go along with it. Take it in the pool, take it in the ocean and wear it to grill burgers after — the Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch merges rugged good looks with dependable style.

The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses — $109.98

Raen Optics

Sharp and modern-yet-retro style in a pair of sunglasses that barely top $100.

 

We here at The Style Guide champion the idea of style that looks great and goes wherever you go — that’s also the case when it comes to accessories. And when you consider the vintage look and sharp style of the Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses, you get all of that and then some. Handcrafted in France, the Arlo Sunglasses, just like the SeaVees Huntington Middie, can go all manner of places beyond Memorial Day weekend. And when you break ’em out to head to the beach, you just might be the best-dressed guy there.
Greats

The Essentials: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal — $39.98 AND Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash — $184.98

Billykirk

Two easy-to-wear and easy-to-pair summer style picks.

You’ll notice we’re sticking with a neutral, essential color palette of charcoal for these two fine and dandy everyday carry pieces. If you’re going to be spending time out in the sun — patio bar or beach — you’ll need some stylish protection from the sun. Enter the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal  — who doesn’t love a well-made, retro-inspired ballcap? And the Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash is a mighty fine way to lug around a six-pack, your sunscreen and perhaps stylish wireless headphones to wear at the beach.

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The Must-Have: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit — $43.98

Oars + Alps

The handy, simple-to-use and effective grooming kit to bring with you.

Whether you’re taking a plane, a train or an automobile (get it?) to your Memorial Day getaway, you need quick and easy grooming solutions. With effective performance and an easily packable nature, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be just the solution you need. I covered it recently in my Style Pick of the Week series, and it’s a surefire winner in terms of keeping your skin looking fresh — no matter how many brews you have this weekend.

The “Gift” for the Party: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $149

GrowlerWerks

With this uKeg, you’re instantly the hit of the party.

Now, the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg is pretty hefty — to say the least. So, let’s assume it’s not necessarily coming with you on your trip. But if you’re hosting or merely heading across town, it’s a thoughtful gesture to bring along a spot of choice brew for that Memorial Day cookout. Best of all? It’s a functional piece geared to keep beer cold and fresh — yet the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg has a nice dash of vintage style thrown in for good measure.

Florsheim

Folks, that’ll about do it in the way of our Memorial Day style roundup. From handy accessories like the stylish Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal  to the durable Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash, make sure you start with the right basics for your trip or barbecue. Accent those functional pieces with the right gear for the occasion — namely, the Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe oughta get the job done. And for versatile style, be sure to pack (or wear) the easygoing Alex Crane Bo Shorts and the versatile SeaVees Huntington Middie. I can’t emphasize enough the need to bring along a rugged dive watch — the Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch is the way to. And for time kicking back in the sun, the Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses are handsome and effective.  OK, I think that’s all the basics covered — right? Enjoy the weekend, folks — we’ll see you out there!

What are your thoughts on the above Memorial Day style picks? What you add or subtract?

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for March Madness The Right Way

If you’re a fan of college basketball — and even if you’re not — you presumably know that March Madness is coming up this weekend.  It brings a lot of hype with it — and despite that, I say we should be focused on dressing for March Madness the right way. As for me, I’ll be fervently cheering on my beloved Michigan State Spartans (GO GREEN!). If you’re heading to a  watch party or to your favorite local pub to take in the action, you  know what I’m about to say — don’t let those style upgrades go to waste. We’ve talked about how to dress for football season, but dressing for March Madness is a bit of a different animal. There’s spring layering involved, there’s office style to consider — during games later this week, at least — and you still need to show proper spirit. If that lines up with your game plan, you’ll enjoy today’s post. Follow along on Instagram and via The Style Guide Facebook page to see how I’ll be cheering on MSU — as always, best of luck and stay stylish!

The Sweater: Hillflint Cotton Tailgating Sweater — $89

A much more stylish alternative to your average sports jersey.

A much more stylish alternative to your average sports jersey.

Who said dressing for sporting events meant throwing on an athletic jersey? No sir, the folks at Hillflint have been doing things differently for quite some time, drawing on vintage and old-school collegiate styles to craft team gear that’s a darn sight better-looking than a baggy sports jersey (sorry, guys — it’s my job). The 100 percent cotton fabrication means this is pretty breathable and easy to layer under a tough waxed trucker jacket should the weather turn south — and whoever you root for, you’re supporting your squad the whole way through thanks to the brand’s plethora of team options.

The Henley: Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley — $85

A sport-inspired layering piece that looks great on its own and works the whole rest of the year.

A sport-inspired layering piece that looks great on its own and works the whole rest of the year.

You could certainly layer a classic chambray shirt underneath the aforementioned team sweater, but a henley from the good folks at Reigning Champ makes just as much sense. In a casual style situation, it’s more comfortable and works better on its own if you get too hot (or … if you don’t feel like repping a losing squad? Ouch).  Besides that, a simple, functional and durable piece like the Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley works throughout the rest of the spring and into fall and winter. Get on it now.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Lean Dean — $200
Crisp enough for the office, dressy enough for the bar and perfect everywhere else.

Crisp enough for the office, dressy enough for the bar and perfect everywhere else.

There’s no better time than the spring for a casual pair of slim light wash denim. Made with premium Italian cotton and featuring a unique “Indigo Spirit” wash, the Lean Dean is just dressy enough to work at the office thanks to the tailored fit. Make no mistake though, they’ll also work nicely at the bar or hanging with friends to watch the tourney’s opening rounds.
 Beckett Simonon
A better alternative to athletic sneakers? Surely. Made responsibly? Definitely.

A better alternative to athletic sneakers? Surely. Made responsibly? Definitely.

Leave it to Astorflex to craft a seriously sustainable, stylish and spring-friendly boot via its Bootflex line.  As it turns out, the Bootflex line is now sold out, so we’re also recommending you grab the slick, sharp Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in Dark Khaki. Sold via the ever-stylish team at Huckberry, you’re getting a surprisingly sturdy suede boot finished off with a natural rubber sole either way. The Dark Khaki color is just the right shade to transition into spring, and the casual nature of these boots means they’ll stylishly offset the more casual athletic sweater and light denim.
ubb-ultimate-american-sock

A durable-as-heck pair of socks that work in multiple seasons and don’t detract from your team garb.

Lest you think socks are just socks and you should pay them no mind … meet the Ultimate American Sock
from United By Blue. Crucially, these socks are as easy to wear with the lightweight Bootflex in Dark Khaki as they are with a tough pair of winter boots or a spring weekend ensemble. Plus, the color of these socks is unassuming and doesn’t distract from your sweater — and that’s what we want anyways, right?

Frank & Oak

A straightforward casual belt with nice spring texture and an agreeable price -- winning style for the tourney.

A straightforward casual belt with nice spring texture and an agreeable price — winning style for the tourney.

In the grand scheme of things, a belt might not seem like the biggest deal. But when you’re gearing up in casual fashion, the little style details still matter. So, a textured leather belt is a simple, easy pick to make alongside the Bootflex in Dark Khaki  and the casual wash and slim fit of the Lean Dean. Plus, it works with plenty of other laidback #menswear ‘fits.
A tough watch with classic diver specs and the versatility to work for a casual night watching a slate of games.

A tough watch with classic diver specs and the versatility to work for a casual night watching a slate of games.

A relatively recent addition to the Huckberry line of stellar goods, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver is both handsome and functional. For starters, it features 330 meters of water resistance and a stainless steel case. What does that mean for you, college basketball fan? It means the Master 1000 Automatic Diver  can stand up to spilled drinks in the pandemonium of celebrating a win, and it means it’ll look great alongside other casual menswear picks this season.

The Essential: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $159

The best way to serve beer at your March Madness party? Maybe, just maybe.

The best way to serve beer at your March Madness party? Maybe, just maybe.

If you’re throwing a March Madness party — or if you’re attending one — enjoying a key beverage of choice is always of the utmost concern. Yet another essential piece of gear sold by Huckberry, the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg  is certainly a sturdy vessel for your favorite brew, with enough bells and whistles included to keep your favorite craft beer perfectly carbonated all game long. And who can resist the vintage look of the copper plating? Again, we’re going beyond just athletics here today.
With all that being said … I assume we’ve got our brackets filled out — right? Ideally, the above March Madness style suggestion should take care of a few more pressing items for you. Starting things off on the right foot with an upgraded athletic sweater is going to set you apart in a good way no matter where you go, and complementing that sweater with another athletic-inspired piece (like the Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley) is just a move that works here. Casual, versatile pieces like the Lean Dean work for both the office and a game-watching party, as does the handsome lace-up silhouette of the Bootflex in Dark Khaki.  And given that everyone loves a tough, durable and casual watch, you could do worse than the Master 1000 Automatic Diver. While we’re talking essentials, please save some Hill Farmstead from the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg for me, will ya?
Unless you went to The U, I wish you luck this weekend — stay stylish and GO GREEN!
-Beau