We’ve been on a bit of a roll recently with these hangover cure posts, and to be honest it’s been a blast. While I do not generally enjoy overdoing it on a night out, it is pretty fun to do it in the name of science. While product tests weren’t a reason we founded Barrels and Mash, I know how to test a hangover cure, and it seemed like something fun and different to try. So when Groovy Guy Gifts (www.groovyguygifts.com) contacted us about reviewing something from their site, I was hesitant. How do I review a coffee mug or a cigar cutter? However after seeing all the whiskey and beer related merchandise I knew I would figure something out.

The site is definitely geared towards “man things” like knives, bottle openers, and cigar things, and seems to be a great resource for groomsman gifts as everything can be etched or stitched with personalizations like names or initials. Now, even saying “man things” makes me uncomfortable because at this point that really shouldn’t be a thing anymore. For example, any whiskey or beer related item on the site is equally appropriate for Kate as it is for myself. So after some searching I found something that would be perfect for both of us as we’ll definitely use it and it’s quality will be easy to determine: a cooler.

We went with the Combat Cooler as its smallish form factor and rugged-looking exterior made it look like the perfect thing for transporting delicious brews to parties, bottle shares, or even picnics. After receiving it we quickly put it to good use as the NCAA Tournament was upon us. We had plans for a full day’s basketball, food, and beer at a friends house and decided it was the perfect time for the Combat Cooler’s maiden voyage. Emblazoned with Kate and I’s initials we loaded it with things from COOP Ale Works, American Solera, and Anchorage Brewing company and topped it off with loads of ice.

We ate, we drank things from the cooler, and it did a great job, it even has a bottle opener built into the shoulder strap which is super convenient. After returning home that evening I decided to leave it in the sink, still full of ice and remaining beer to see how the insulation and structural integrity held up. After returning from work the following day the water was cold, the sink was dry, and no issues were to be found. For only $40 I would definitely recommend this thing even over the slightly more expensive model it replaces as the other model has a velcro “easy access” door that is kind of annoying and serves to reduce the insulation.

Thanks to Groovy Guy Gifts for letting us take this cooler for a spin and keep them in mind for any upcoming gifts for the whiskey, beer, cigar, or sports lover in your life, guy OR gal.

Disclaimer: This product was provided at no cost to Barrels and Mash with no strings attached.