Known the world over for their iconic caps, Stormy Kromer has survived more than 100 winters on a simple, but ingenious design dreamed up in 1903 by baseball player turned railroad engineer George “Stormy” Kromer. A design built to keep your ears toasty warm when you need it, and out of the way when you don’t. Since then Stormy Kromer has branched out to develop their own line of outerwear, apparel and accessories. Their American made/handmade products are built for warmth, durability and complete functionality.

Recently we hooked up with our neighbors from Ironwood, MI to test and review several apparel items for both men and women. To kick things off where better to start than with the cap that started it all for SK… the “Six Pointer!”

Men’s Original & Women’s Pedal Pusher Caps
Stormy Kromer Winter 2013Nicknamed the “Six Pointer” by railroad crews all over the nation in the early days for it’s unique six panel design, this is the same wool cap that started it all for the Stormy Kromer. Built for long-lasting comfort, this cap has been an icon of the great American outdoors for more than 100 years now. Heck, check your granddad’s closet… if he’s any sort of hardworking outdoors man you’ll find one hanging there!

Not one to leave the ladies hanging SK added a twist to their classic design in recent years with introduction of the Pedal Pusher cap. Same design, same comfort, more flair!

Review Breakdown:sk-long

  • Comfort………….…..8
  • Design…………….….9
  • Durability……………9.5
  • Affordability………….9

Overall: (35.5 out of 40) These rugged wool caps are as warm as they look and proved to be surprisingly comfy even after hours of use. While the men’s “Original” Cap remains a bit understated, with a focus on function over form, the ladies “Pedal Pusher” Cap on the other hand has some flair that looks outstanding whether you’re hauling hay to the barn or heading out for drinks after a long day. How they work? Click the video below…

Throughout testing we received several compliments on both caps. We were amazed with their insulative properties and comfort, which make SK caps an ideal alternative to beanies or ear muffs.

Men’s Original: $39.99 Women’s Pedal Pusher: $44.99 

Overland Quarter Zip Jacket
Stormy Kromer Winter 2013The Stormy Kromer Overland Quarter Zip is made out of a high-performance combo of polyester, wool, and spandex to adapt to both indoor and outdoor use. More than an average pullover, it’s a cross between a casual shirt and a light, cold weather jacket. It’s built to go the distance whether it’s on a winter 10k or to wear between the kitchen and the couch.

Stormy Kromer Winter 2013Review Breakdown:

  • Comfort………………8
  • Design……………….9
  • Functionality……….10
  • Durability…………….9
  • Affordability………….7

Overall: (43 out of 50) So yeah…we just found our new favorite shirt. We’ve practically lived in our SK Overland Quarter Zips since they arrived on our doorstep. It’s been everywhere with us: to the cabin, to Thanksgiving dinner, on a run, to the office on casual Friday, and by the fire while we relaxed in our jammie jams. We even have travel plans lined up for them to go snowboarding and snowshoeing with us after the holidays. This versatile number can be used as a shirt, a pullover, or a jacket. It has some serious mileage. Don’t know what to wear? Hello SK Overland Quarter Zip! Actually, you’ll need to keep tabs on when you wear it so you’re not rocking it two days in a row – or at least not in front of the same people two (or three) days in a row.

Men’s: $139.99 Women’s: $134.99

Stormy Kromer Carryall

Stormy Kromer Winter 2013Built as more of a unisex bag designed to carry just about anything you can think of, we chose to test and review this Carryall from the perspective of the road tripping outdoors man. Produced from a rugged wool/nylon blend and outfitted a cotton twill lining and waxed cotton bottom this carryall boasts a plethora of pockets and storage space. Weekend trips to and from the hunting property mean packing up and packing in – so let me begin… with our review that is!

Review Breakdown:

  • Stormy Kromer Winter 2013Design…………….…..8
  • Functionality………..9.5
  • Durability…………….10
  • Affordability………….6.5

Overall: (34 out of 40) Finding a “man bag” that does’t make you feel like an uncomfortable girly-man in public is hard to come by, but Stormy Kromer has figured it out. The Kromer Carryall is just big enough to NOT resemble a purse, with handles too short to be confused for a shoulder strap and manly lumberjack prints this bag is versatile, durable and handsome.

Currently, we’re utilizing this bag as a catch-all for hunting gear. We’re talking ammo, cleaning kit, ear protection, targets, gloves etc.. you name it – this bag can handle it. The stitching and materials SK used to produce this bag are rugged and should last a lifetime. One of our favorite touches is the waxed cotton bottom, handle and zip area. It has a leather/hide-like quality, but remains very durable.

Buy Now: $119.99
Kromer Tote

Stormy Kromer Winter 2013

Made of 100% cotton duck with parrafin-treated accents, this tote is one tough bird. This cargo container is ready follow you to the ends of the Earth or just down the street to the local watering hole. She’s your go-to carry-all.

Review Breakdown:

  • Design……………….7
  • Functionality……….8
  • Durability……………9
  • Affordability………..….7

Overall: (31 out of 40) Say ‘hey’ to the rugged but stylish Kromer Tote! Man oh man, she is ready to roll with whatever you have planned for her. The possibilities are endless and she is an open minded gal. We’ve found her pretty handy to carry our laptop, tablet, wallet, cell, shades, gloves, snacks, and even an emergency bottle of Cabernet. It was a rough day and she carried us (and everything else) until the bitter end.

Buy Now: $84.99

About The Author

Editor-in-Chief

Busted Wallet’s resident testing and review specialist, Josh has a keen eye for all things tech, booze, and sports-related. After working closely with brands such as Nike, The North Face, EA Sports, Burton, HP, Oakley, Sony, Cannondale, Taylormade Golf and many others over the past decade he’s grown to become one of the most reliable reviewers in the business.

One Response

  1. Christy

    You’re so awesome! I don’t suppose I’ve truly read anything like that before.

    So good to find someone with some original thoughts on this topic.
    Really.. thank you for starting this up. This website is one thing that is required on the web, someone with a little originality!

    Reply

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