There are many mate gourds available for sale all over the internet, but how do you find them? How do you know which materials to prioritize ?
In this guide you will learn more about silicone , stainless steel and squash gourds .
1. Recycled silicone calabash 
Silicone gourds offer a modern and practical alternative to traditional gourds made of natural material. Here is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of these gourds to help you make an informed choice:
Benefits :
- Durability: Silicone is resistant to impact , scratches and damage, making it a durable option suitable for everyday use.
- Lightness: Silicone gourds are lightweight , making them easy to transport and handle .
- Thermal Insulation: Silicone provides effective thermal insulation , keeping your mate warm while preventing the calabash from becoming too hot to the touch.
- Ease of Maintenance: Silicone gourds are easy to clean and can often be put in the dishwasher.
Disadvantages :
- Aesthetics: Although silicone gourds are functional, they may not have the visual charm of gourds made from natural materials like natural gourd.
- Heat Compatibility: Although silicone is heat resistant, it may not retain heat as effectively as other materials.
2. Stainless steel calabash 
Stainless steel gourds offer a modern alternative to traditional natural material gourds. Here's a look at the pros and cons of these gourds to help you make an informed decision:
Benefits :
- Durability: Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and damage, ensuring a durable gourd that will last a long time.
- Heat Retention: Stainless steel gourds retain heat effectively , keeping your mate hot for an extended period of time.
- Easy to Maintain: Stainless steel gourds are easy to clean and do not retain odors or flavors.
- Modern Aesthetic: They add a contemporary touch to your mate consumption ritual thanks to their elegant design.
Disadvantages :
- Weight: Stainless steel gourds may be heavier than other materials, which may influence their portability.
- Initial Investment: Compared to other materials like silicone, stainless steel gourds can be more expensive to purchase.
➔ Order a stainless steel calabash
3. Traditional squash calabash
Traditional gourd gourds offer an authentic experience and are widely used to enjoy mate. Here's a look at the pros and cons of these gourds to help you make an informed decision:
Benefits :
- Authentic Taste: Squash gourds are known to enhance the flavor of mate , providing a more authentic and traditional experience.
- Natural Aesthetic: Gourd gourds have a natural charm with unique patterns and textures, making them visually appealing.
- Heat Retention: Squash gourds retain heat well , allowing the mate to stay hot for a while.
- Mouthfeel: Mate drunk from a gourd gourd can have a distinct and pleasant mouthfeel .
Disadvantages :
- Maintenance Required: Squash gourds require a seasoning process before first use and regular maintenance to prevent residue and mold buildup.
- Fragility: Squash gourds are more fragile than metal or silicone alternatives and can crack or break if impacted.
- Variability: Due to the natural nature of gourd gourds, there may be some variability in size, shape and texture from gourd to gourd.
- Price: High-quality gourd gourds can be more expensive than other options due to their manufacturing process and traditional appeal.
➔ Order a traditional imperial calabash
By considering these pros and cons, you can determine whether a squash, silicone, or stainless steel gourd is right for you. Be sure to choose a quality gourd and follow the care instructions to get the most out of it!
