When I give gifts, I try to give something that connects with that person's passion. Or something that is very practical. It is a happy moment when I give a gift that hits both marks. I gave the Grypmat to my best friend and he immediately let me know how wonderful this product is.
What is a Grypmat?
A Grypmat is a trademarked, silicone tool organizer that sticks to surfaces and so much more.
Grypmats:
- come in a variety of sizes
- are made of silicone polymer and "special ingredients" to make it "extra grypy".
- are anti-static and clings through a combination of suction and friction
- protect surfaces from marring and scratching
- prevent the loss of tools, bolts, and other small items
- are not magnetic (does not pick up bits of metal fragments that scratch)
- are rated for very hot and very cold temperatures (climate, engine, workspace, etc)
- are washable; oils and chemicals (used in mechanic work) wash off easily and do not harm that mats
- can be used in a variety of activities; mechanical work, jewelry-making, gunsmithing, and almost any activity that requires keeping track of items.
Comments, Photos, and a Brief Review from My Friend
I knew I'd review the medium Grypmat as soon as my friend started text-bombing me with photos and comments about the gift I gave to him. As a side note, my friend works in building maintenance and car repair. I know that he HATES when people are careless and scratch things by laying their tools on surfaces. I've been with him when the socket drops out of his hand, falls through the engine, and a hide-n-seek game ensues. As soon as I saw these Grypmats, I knew that he would put it to good use. But I had no clue how much he'd love it. In fact, I had apologized that this gift was probably a really boring/practical/work-related gift.
The following is a selection of photos and comments from my friend (used with permission):
"I'd say I've had numerous times I'd like to have it on the window....
a place to sit stuff"
"Even the mirror job... I had tools on the wiper cowl and if you miss one... crunch... hoodcrumple"
"And it's an electrical insulator... won't arc battery..."
Of course, there are Grypmat knock-offs available. I decided to purchase the original Grypmat out of the expectation (an expectation that was met) that the materials would be high quality and the product would perform as advertised. I'd imagine that the knock-offs would provide a non-marring tool mat but I imagine that the "gripping" ability would be absent. For example, my silicone soap molds are heat-resistant in an oven and would prevent tools from making scratches in surfaces if used as a mat. But the grip factor is missing as is the industrial level quality. I am also not confident that my silicone items would stand up to the chemicals used in auto repairs and similar activities.
Who Invented Grypmat?
"Grypmat is a Veteran-founded company founded by former Air Force F-16 Mechanic, Tom Burden" from the Grypmat official website.
Another reason I chose Grypmat was related to who the inventor is. While I am not someone who does a great deal of shopping, I do try to support Veteran-owned businesses when I spend money. I also support entrepreneurs and small business as often as I am able. Finally, who better to design a tool mat than an F-16 mechanic?
I felt that my decision was validated when I realized that Tom Burden had also appeared on The Shark Tank. If The Sharks have faith in this product, I thought it would be a good choice as a gift for my friend.
And clearly, it was an excellent and much appreciated choice.
Related Links:
If you are interested in a Grypmat, or want more information, you can check the official website. You can also find Grypmats on Amazon via the Grypshon store or using the link below.
Photo credit: truck and Grypmat photos courtesy of Dawn Rae's BFF.