This review delves into the OXO Good Grips grilling tools, comparing them to standard kitchen utensils and highlighting their advantages for grilling enthusiasts. The author, experiencing limitations with previous tools due to a medical condition (thoracic outlet syndrome), sought a superior grilling experience focused on ergonomics, heat protection, and ease of use. This review details the author's transition from cumbersome, inefficient tools to the OXO Good Grips set, analyzing its performance in practical grilling scenarios.The assessment covers both the spatula and tongs, examining their design features, functionality, and impact on the overall grilling process. Particular attention is given to how the tools' improved ergonomics addressed the author's specific needs and enhanced the overall cooking experience. Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the OXO Good Grips set, offering valuable insights for those seeking to upgrade their grilling equipment and improve both comfort and efficiency.
Pros And Cons
- Tongs are easy to squeeze, even for someone with arm pain.
- Tongs grip food well.
- Spatula is thin and flexible, easy to get under food.
- Spatula is considered the best by some reviewers.
- Lightweight and easy on the arms due to lack of spring.
- Hand gets close to hot fire, causing burns.
- Chicken legs get stuck.
Read more: 10 Best BBQ Tongs: A Buyer's Guide
Existing Tools and Their Limitations
My previous grilling experience involved using standard kitchen tongs and a bulky spatula. The tongs lacked a spring mechanism, making them easier on my arms (I have thoracic outlet syndrome), but they also allowed my hand to get too close to the heat, resulting in burns. The small size made it difficult to handle larger items like chicken legs.
The spatula was thick and heavy, with worn wooden handles. Its bulkiness made maneuvering around food cumbersome. I needed tools that offered better grip, heat protection, and ease of use.
These limitations highlighted the need for an upgrade; a set of tools designed specifically for grilling with improved ergonomics and functionality.
Introducing the OXO Good Grips Grilling Tools
After researching online reviews, I opted for the OXO Good Grips grilling tools set, which frequently ranked high in comparison tests. The set included a spatula and tongs.
The spatula’s thin, flexible design seemed ideal for getting under food easily. The added knife edge was intriguing, although I wasn’t sure how often I’d use it. The tongs’ spring-loaded mechanism appeared manageable, without the excessive stiffness of my old, larger tongs.
The overall design aesthetic, functionality and ergonomics suggested an improvement over my existing tools.
The Grilling Test: Chicken Legs and Burgers
I prepared chicken legs marinated in Mr. Yoshida's teriyaki sauce, grilling them indirectly to prevent burning. The marinade's high sugar content required indirect heat.
After approximately 25 minutes, I tested the tongs. They effortlessly gripped the chicken legs, far surpassing the performance of my old tongs. They offered excellent heat protection and ease of use, avoiding the issues of sticking and burns.
I then used the spatula on a burger, demonstrating its ability to easily slide underneath and lift the patty without tearing or breaking.
Final Verdict: A Worthy Investment?
The OXO Good Grips grilling tools set exceeded expectations. The tongs offered superior grip, excellent heat protection and ease of use compared to my older options. The light weight and ergonomic design are perfect for those with hand or arm issues.
The spatula was a revelation, its thin and flexible design made flipping and maneuvering food a breeze. Both tools offer a significant improvement in both comfort and effectiveness.
Overall, the OXO Good Grips set is a fantastic investment for any serious griller, providing exceptional value and performance. The improved ergonomics and functionalities significantly enhance the grilling experience, making it easier and more enjoyable.