Coffee Mugs We Like

Here at Tools & Toys, we like to think of ourselves as discerning coffee drinkers. As such, we've become fans of specific coffee mugs over the years.

Some are perfect for travel, some are tough enough for the outdoors, and some we like simply because they're quirky. This is by no means an exhaustive list but you may come away with a cool new mug (or three) to add to your collection. We know you have one.

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Best Made Company's Seamless Enamel Steel Mugs »

This mug is forged at a 100-year-old factory in Poland using World War II-era machinery, and is made from top-quality enamel-coated steel. The rim and the handle — the two spots that get the most abuse — are reinforced with a double dipping of enamel. This cup is made for use by the campfire, but it’s fine enough that it may find its way into your kitchen cabinet as well. If that happens, don’t worry about it. Who could blame you?

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Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug »

Zojirushi's stainless steel mug is the space shuttle of vacuum-insulated travel mugs. It keeps drinks hot or cold for hours — up to half a day, in our experience (not that it takes us that long to consume coffee).

We couldn’t believe how consistent the temperature retention is, and yet the exterior is always comfortable to the touch. It’s totally spill-proof, and even has a lock to prevent the lid from opening accidentally. The lid also disassembles for easy cleaning, so no worrying about gross gunk building up in there.

Honorable mentions in this category: the Contigo autoseal tumbler and the Stelton vacuum jug.

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KeepCup Brew »

The KeepCup Brew — a newer glass version of the plastic KeepCup Original — is a reusable coffee cup that aims to do away with wasteful, disposable paper cups and look great doing it. If you frequently stop in for a quick cup at a local coffee shop or ever need to take your home-brewed coffee on-the-go, the KeepCup Brew is your friend.

Made from durable, fully-tempered soda lime glass and sporting a silicone thermal band around the middle, the KeepCup Brew also features a redesigned version of the original’s eco-friendly plastic lid that makes it easier than ever to sip from and clean later. The colors of the lid, band, and plug can all be customized during the ordering process.

It’s available in two sizes:

• Small ($24): 8oz/227ml – The same size as a standard latte glass.
• Medium ($26): 12oz/340ml — Comfortably supports an Aeropress.

The glass portion is microwavable (but not the lid, so leave it off!) and can even hold boiling water, although they don’t necessarily recommend it in most cases.

KeepCup also offers a limited edition series (pictured above) that sports a cork band instead of silicone. It’s a bit more expensive, costing $30 for the small and $32 for the medium, but it looks way cooler.

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Bodum Pavina Double Wall Glass Mugs »

These delicate mugs work wonders to keep your coffee (or tea) hotter for longer. They're made from a heat-resistant borosilicate glass that doesn't sweat, and they're insulated enough that you won't burn yourself holding one.

Just be careful handling them, they are surprisingly fragile and require an extra gentle touch. Don't put them in the dishwasher, these are hand-wash only. We also recommend using bamboo stir sticks over metal spoons (they steal less heat from the liquid anyway).

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Cuppow »

If drinking cold brew coffee out of a mason jar is your thing, you’ll appreciate having a Cuppow around. It’s a BPA-free plastic lid that essentially converts the jar into a travel mug. You can sip straight from the lid or use a straw, whichever you prefer.

There are a variety of Cuppow colors and sizes to choose from, whether you’re drinking from a regular-mouth or large-mouth jar. Prices for single lids are about $8 or $9. Double packs are also available for $15.

For hot drinks, try slipping one of these bridle leather sleeves over the jar. They look pretty sweet, and keep your hands from getting scalded.