Opinions differ on covering a kettle, for me, I do it.
When it comes to Weber Kettle covers traditionally there have been two offerings, the standard and premium versions
Standard version on my 18 mini(long because the 18 has been trimmed) (22 version 7451)
Premium on my 22 '76 Red kettle (7453 Discontinued)
As a rule, I have stayed away from the standard one unless I have nothing else in stock as they are very cheap and flimsy. Do not expect them to last a winter esp if you plan to use the kettle. They can be had for very cheap, found on clearance for under $5
While the Premium version is constructed better it does have it's limitations.
One of them being it's tight fit on a Master-touch below is a pic on my 1995 Master-touch.
To compensate some have resorted to non Weber covers as shown below.
This is a cover from Menards (Home Store in Midwest locations), cost is 16.99 very durable and comes with some nice features not found on the traditional Weber covers like a handle on top, straps to tighten at the bottom and holes that can be used to further secure the cover.
This cover is listed as 29 inches and fits an older style 26 kettle with a slide aside very comfortably
Enter the 2015 Master-touch with the width and the additional height Weber needed to find a way to cover these beauties.
All the new Weber covers come with the ability to stuff them in this convenient bag, initially I thought so what, but I like the ability to out it away in a convenient bag when guest are over.
Initial concern with these covers, longevity, it seems like a hybrid between the standard and premium covers that Weber has offered. Weber has assured its customers that these will stand the test of time, time will only tell.
Before I show the new cover on the Master-touch first a quick look at the insides of the Weber Premium, Menards cover and New Weber Master-touch cover.
Weber Premium
Menards cover
New Weber Master-touch(and others)
On to the cover
As you can see it fits like a glove as we should expect.
A couple of nice features
Handle on top to easily lift off
A strap at the bottom to keep this light cover from blowing away, @ 29.99 it is nice to know it will not be swept away in a hard wind, unless your kettle gets swept away.
Personally I like the cover, I like seeing Weber branded on the cover of my treasured kettles, questions remain are they durable? Is it worth the money compared to the alternatives out there? That is going to be the question, not only is the one for the Master-Touch priced @ $29.99 for so are the ones for the Original and Premium model 22" (57cm) kettles. We all understand inflation but it feels like the bean counters took over to lower the quality at a higher price with extras that are nice but may or may not be needed.
Other covers to consider Veranda makes a very high quality cover, while I have never seen the one for a kettle, I did purchase one for a gasser last fall and was very impressed.
Topic: Kettle covers (Review of Weber Brand Kettle covers and alternatives) (Read 8276 times)