Real Deal Steel Stainless Steel Double Walled Mugs Review

Useful Accessories:

• Bottle brush for thorough cleaning
• Protective sleeve or case for travel
• Silicone grip bands
• Replacement lids (when available)

Having spent time with these mugs during office coffee breaks and weekend camping trips, I can say Real Deal Steel keeps things refreshingly simple. These aren’t the fanciest mugs out there, but they nail the basics.

Key Features:

• Double-wall vacuum insulation that actually works
• Tough 18/8 food-grade stainless steel construction
• Available in 15 oz (443 ml) and 20 oz (591 ml) sizes
• Four color options: stainless steel, black, blue, and white
• Optional BPA-free lid available on some models
• Ergonomic handle that’s comfortable to grip

The build quality feels substantial - these mugs have some heft to them. The stainless steel finish resists scratches well, though I’ve noticed the colored versions can show wear more easily. The handle welding is rock-solid, something I particularly appreciate after a colleague’s cheaper mug handle broke off after just a few months.

Dimensions: 15 oz version:

• Height: 4.5” (11.4 cm)
• Diameter: 3.5” (8.9 cm)
• Weight: About 10 oz (283 g)

20 oz version:

• Height: 5.5” (14 cm)
• Diameter: 3.75” (9.5 cm)
• Weight: About 12 oz (340 g)

You can find these mugs in standard sets of two, which is handy if you’re shopping for a pair. They also occasionally release gift sets with matching lids or limited edition colors, though these can be harder to track down.

The simplicity of the design is actually refreshing - no complicated lid mechanisms to break or special coatings to wear off. Just solid construction that does what it promises.

These mugs aren’t rocket science, but there’s some clever engineering at play. The secret sauce is the double-wall vacuum insulation - think of it like a tiny thermos.

The walls are two layers of 18/8 stainless steel with a vacuum between them. This vacuum acts like a force field against temperature change. Hot coffee can’t easily lose its heat, and cold brew stays chilled longer. In practice, I’ve found hot coffee stays properly hot (not just warm) for about 4-5 hours, though the company claims 6 hours. Cold drinks fare even better, staying cold for nearly a full day.

Using the mug is straightforward:

1. Pour in your beverage
2. Add the lid if you have one (it helps with insulation)
3. Enjoy your drink without rushing

Pro tip: Pre-heating with hot water for hot drinks (or chilling for cold ones) makes a noticeable difference in performance. Just fill with hot/cold water for a minute before adding your actual beverage.

The wide mouth makes cleaning easy - no special bottle brush required unless you’re really thorough. And unlike some travel mugs with complex lid mechanisms, there aren’t many places for grime to hide.

One quirk worth mentioning: the excellent insulation means your drink stays hot for a while, so you might want to let your coffee cool a bit before sealing it up, or you’ll be waiting to drink it.

After borrowing these mugs for various coffee adventures, here’s what stands out:

The Good Stuff:

Built Tough: The 18/8 stainless steel construction isn’t just marketing talk - these mugs can take a beating. I’ve watched them survive drops onto office floors and camping sites without denting.

Actually Keeps Coffee Hot: The insulation does its job well. Coffee stays properly hot through long meetings, not just lukewarm like with cheaper mugs. Cold drinks stay cold even longer.

Simple But Effective: No fancy mechanisms to break or complicated parts to clean. The basic design just works, and keeps working.

Reliable Handle: The welded handle feels solid and comfortable. After seeing cheaper mug handles break off, this matters more than you might think.

The Not-So-Great:

Weight: These aren’t lightweight options. The 20oz version especially can feel hefty when full. Fine for desk use, less ideal for ultralight camping.

Limited Style Options: With just four colors, you won’t find many choices for personalization. The finish is practical but pretty basic.

Price Point: They cost more than basic mugs, though the durability usually makes up for it over time.

No Microwave Option: Like all stainless steel mugs, you can’t reheat your coffee in the microwave.

Real-World Performance: Most users seem to agree - these mugs prioritize function over flash. The insulation works reliably, and the construction holds up well to daily use. The weight is the most common complaint I’ve heard, especially from hikers and travelers who need to pack light.

When it comes to taking these mugs on the road, there are some clear tradeoffs. The robust construction that makes them durable also makes them heavier than some alternatives. Here’s how they handle various travel scenarios:

Daily Commute:

• Fits standard cup holders well
• Stable base prevents tipping
• Handle provides secure grip on bumpy rides

Outdoor Adventures:

• Tough enough for camping and hiking
• Too heavy for ultralight backpacking
• Can double as a camp cooking vessel in a pinch

The sealed versions do a decent job preventing leaks, though they’re not completely spill-proof if tossed in a bag. I’ve found they work best when carried upright or stored in a water bottle pocket.

For car camping or road trips, these mugs really shine. They’re tough enough to handle rough treatment, and the temperature retention means your coffee stays hot even during chilly morning setup. Just remember the extra weight if you’re packing light.

These mugs make the most sense for certain types of coffee drinkers. You’ll probably love these if you:

• Value durability over lightweight design
• Need reliable temperature retention for long meetings or outdoor sessions
• Don’t mind simple aesthetics
• Want something that can handle both office life and weekend adventures
• Prefer straightforward designs without complex mechanisms
• Like to take your time with hot drinks

They’re particularly well-suited for car campers, office workers, and anyone who tends to be a bit rough on their coffee gear. The solid construction means you won’t need to baby these mugs - they can handle being tossed in a backpack or dropped on concrete.

I’ve found they especially appeal to folks who’ve been burned by cheaper mugs failing at inconvenient moments. If you’re tired of replacing flimsy handles or dealing with failed insulation, these offer a more reliable alternative.

These mugs aren’t for everyone. You might want to look elsewhere if you:

• Need something ultralight for backpacking
• Prefer to microwave your coffee
• Want lots of color options
• Like minimalist, sleek designs
• Need completely spill-proof travel mugs
• Want the latest smart features or temperature indicators

Better alternatives might include:

• Titanium mugs for ultralight hiking
• Ceramic mugs for microwave users
• YETI or similar brands for more color choices
• Specialized travel mugs with advanced lid systems

The weight is probably the biggest deal-breaker for some users. If you’re counting ounces for backpacking or prefer something that feels light in hand, you might find these too substantial. Similarly, if you’re looking for something stylish for the office, the basic aesthetic might not match your preferences.

Having observed these mugs in regular use over time, they show some interesting patterns. The good news is that the core functionality - keeping drinks hot or cold - stays consistent. The vacuum seal holds up well, unlike some cheaper mugs that lose their insulating power over time.

The stainless steel body maintains its integrity, though the colored versions can show wear more easily. Scratches and scuffs do appear with regular use, but they’re usually cosmetic rather than functional issues.

Common long-term observations:

• Handles stay firmly attached
• Insulation performance remains stable
• No issues with rust or corrosion
• Basic dents don’t affect functionality
• Lids (if used) might need replacement before the mug body

The simplicity of the design actually helps with longevity - fewer parts means fewer things to break. Just keep an eye on the lid seal if you use one, as that’s typically the first part to show wear.

Keeping these mugs in good shape is pretty straightforward, but there are some tricks worth knowing:

Daily Care:

1. Rinse promptly after use
2. Wash with warm, soapy water
3. Dry thoroughly, especially around the handle joints
4. Store without the lid to prevent odors

Deep Cleaning Tips:

• Use baking soda paste for stubborn coffee stains
• A bottle brush helps reach the bottom corners
• White vinegar solution removes any lingering odors
• Descale occasionally if you have hard water

What to Avoid:

• Steel wool or abrasive scrubbers
• Bleach or harsh chemicals
• Leaving coffee sitting for days
• Storing with lid tightly sealed

While they’re technically dishwasher safe, hand washing helps maintain the finish and insulation properties longer. A quick daily rinse and regular deep clean should keep your mug performing well for years.

For tough stains or smells, try this trick: fill with hot water, add a teaspoon of baking soda, let sit overnight. Works every time.

These mugs offer some solid environmental benefits, mainly through their durability and reusability. One mug can easily replace hundreds of disposable cups over its lifetime.

The 18/8 stainless steel construction is fully recyclable, though you probably won’t need to think about that for years given their durability. The simple design means fewer parts to eventually end up in landfills.

Worth noting:

• Steel production has its environmental costs
• Long lifespan offsets initial production impact
• No plastic parts in the main construction
• Recyclable at end of life
• Helps reduce single-use cup waste

The best environmental impact comes from consistent use - these mugs need to replace many disposable cups to offset their production footprint. Fortunately, their durability makes this easy to achieve.

When evaluating value, these mugs sit in an interesting spot. They’re not the cheapest option, but they’re not premium-priced either. The value comes from their longevity and reliable performance.

The construction quality suggests these mugs will outlast several cheaper alternatives. Factor in the consistent insulation performance and durability, and the price starts making more sense.

Consider this:

• Potential to replace multiple cheaper mugs
• No need for frequent replacements
• Performs similarly to more expensive brands
• Simple design means fewer parts to fail

If you’re comparing solely on initial cost, these might seem expensive. But factor in the lifespan and performance, and they offer solid value for regular coffee drinkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

After plenty of use, here are some handy tips for getting the most from these mugs:

1. Preheating Hack: Warm the mug with hot water for 30 seconds before adding coffee. Makes a surprising difference in heat retention.

2. Cleaning Trick: Stuck-on coffee stains? Mix baking soda with just enough water to make a paste, apply, and let sit overnight.

3. Temperature Control: For hot drinks that are too hot, leave the lid off for a few minutes to reach ideal drinking temperature, then seal it up.

4. Outdoor Use: These make great camp bowls in a pinch - the double wall means you can hold them comfortably even with hot soup inside.

5. Lid Care: If you have the lid version, hand wash the gasket separately occasionally to prevent odor buildup.

6. Storage: Store upside down after washing to ensure complete drying.

7. Travel Tip: Wrap in a bandana when packing - adds padding and gives you a handy cloth for spills.

Q: Can I put these mugs in the dishwasher? A: Yes, but hand washing is recommended for longer life. The dishwasher can eventually affect the finish.

Q: Do they fit in standard car cup holders? A: Yes, both sizes fit most standard cup holders, though the handle might need specific orientation.

Q: How long do they really keep drinks hot? A: In real-world use, expect about 4-5 hours for hot drinks to stay properly hot, not just warm. Cold drinks stay cold notably longer.

Q: Are replacement lids available? A: Yes, though availability varies. Contact Real Deal Steel directly for current options.

Q: Can I use them for cold drinks too? A: Absolutely. They actually perform better with cold drinks, keeping them cold for up to 24 hours.

Q: Do they retain flavors or smells? A: Not significantly. Regular cleaning prevents any lasting taste or odor issues.

Q: Can they be used on a campfire? A: While technically possible, it’s not recommended. The vacuum seal could be damaged by direct heat.

After extensive use both at the office and on weekend adventures, Real Deal Steel’s mugs prove they’re aptly named. They’re not the most sophisticated or stylish option out there, but they’re reliable performers that get the job done without fuss.

The insulation works as promised - your morning coffee stays hot through those long meetings, and your cold brew actually stays cold on summer hikes. The build quality is solid, lacking the rattles and weak spots I’ve found in cheaper alternatives.

Sure, they’re a bit heavy, and the color options won’t win any design awards. But if you’re after a dependable mug that can handle daily use and the occasional camping trip, these fit the bill nicely. They strike a good balance between durability and usability without trying to reinvent the wheel.

For coffee enthusiasts who value function over flash, Real Deal Steel mugs are a solid choice. They may not be perfect, but they’re honest workhorses that deliver where it counts.