First Impressions of Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross immediately evokes a sense of classic, no-nonsense utility. Rothco is known for providing affordable, reliable gear, and this blanket seemed like a great way to add a touch of old-school preparedness to my kit. The promise of warmth and a touch of heritage with the Swiss cross design intrigued me, prompting me to order it.
I’ve always prioritized dependable, multi-use items in my gear. A wool blanket is a survival staple, and I was looking for something that could handle tough conditions without breaking the bank. My existing synthetic blanket felt too flimsy for true emergency use.
Unboxing the blanket, I was immediately hit with that familiar wool smell. It felt heavier than I expected, which was a good sign for warmth. The material felt slightly rough to the touch, as expected for a wool blend, but seemed durable.
Compared to my lightweight camping blanket and a heavier military-surplus wool blanket I own, the Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross seemed like a solid middle ground. The camping blanket is far lighter but lacks warmth, while the surplus blanket is bulky and itchy. I chose this one hoping for a balance of packability, warmth, and reasonable comfort.
Initially, I was pleasantly surprised. It seemed like a functional, potentially versatile blanket. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross on a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. The temperatures dipped into the low 40s at night, providing a reasonable test of its insulating capabilities. I used it both inside my tent as an added layer on my sleeping bag and outside around the campfire.
The blanket performed adequately in these conditions. It definitely added a noticeable layer of warmth inside the tent. While sitting around the campfire, the wool blend helped to deflect some of the sparks, which gave me some piece of mind when compared to using a synthetic blanket.
I found the blanket easy to use. I simply unfolded it and draped it over myself. It did shed a bit of wool initially, but that was expected with a new wool blanket.
The only real issue I noticed was the initial itchiness of the wool against my skin. I was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, so it wasn’t a huge problem, but it’s something to consider for warmer weather where less clothing is worn.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a few more camping trips and using it as an emergency blanket in my vehicle, the Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear. The pico stitching around the edges seems durable and prevents excessive fraying.
The blanket has shown itself to be fairly resilient. It still sheds a small amount of wool with each use, but it is substantially less than it did upon first use. I have noticed a few minor snags in the weave, but nothing that compromises the structural integrity.
Cleaning the blanket is relatively straightforward. I spot-clean minor stains with a damp cloth and mild soap. I haven’t fully washed it yet, but I plan to hand wash it with wool-specific detergent when needed.
Compared to other wool blankets I’ve used, the Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross is neither the warmest nor the most comfortable, but it provides good value for the price. It offers a decent level of warmth and durability for its intended purpose.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross
Specifications
- Material: The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross is constructed from a 70% wool and 30% synthetic blend. This blend aims to balance warmth, durability, and affordability.
- Size: The blanket measures 62 inches wide by 80 inches long. This size is sufficient to cover most individuals comfortably, or to fit over a standard-sized cot.
- Weight: While the exact weight isn’t specified by Rothco, it feels substantial, likely around 3-4 pounds. This weight contributes to its warmth and durability.
- Design: It features an embroidered red stripe cross, mimicking the classic Swiss Army design. This gives it a unique, recognizable look.
- Stitching: Pico stitching reinforces the edges for added durability. This helps prevent fraying and extends the blanket’s lifespan.
- Fire Resistance: The wool blend offers some degree of fire resistance. This makes it safer to use around campfires than purely synthetic blankets.
These specifications directly impact the blanket’s performance. The wool content provides insulation. The synthetic fibers add strength and prevent excessive shrinkage or stretching.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross performs adequately as a general-purpose blanket. It provides a decent level of warmth for its weight and size. The wool blend retains warmth even when damp, a critical advantage in outdoor environments.
The blanket’s strengths lie in its simplicity and affordability. It’s a no-frills, reliable option for adding an extra layer of warmth. One weakness is its initial itchiness. A base layer is recommended for sensitive skin.
The blanket meets my basic expectations for a wool blend blanket. It’s warm enough for moderate conditions. It’s durable enough for regular use.
Design & Ergonomics
The blanket’s design is straightforward and functional. The 62×80 inch size is adequate for most people. The weight feels reassuringly substantial without being overly cumbersome.
The material can feel slightly rough against bare skin, especially upon initial use. There’s no complex design to it. There’s no learning curve to using it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross seems relatively durable for its price point. The 70/30 wool/synthetic blend offers a good balance of strength and resilience. The pico stitching appears to be well done, preventing fraying along the edges.
Maintenance is fairly simple. Spot cleaning is effective for minor stains. Hand washing with a wool-specific detergent is recommended for more thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross doesn’t come with any specific accessories. It’s a standalone item.
There are no specific customization options available. However, you could potentially add patches or modify the stitching yourself. This blanket’s simplicity is part of its appeal, as it’s designed to be a basic, reliable tool.
Pros and Cons of Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Decent warmth for its weight.
- Durable wool blend construction.
- Fire-resistant properties for added safety.
- Classic Swiss Army design with embroidered cross.
Cons
- Can be itchy against bare skin, especially initially.
- Sheds wool fibers, particularly when new.
- Not as warm as higher-end, pure wool blankets.
Who Should Buy Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross?
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious campers and hikers looking for an affordable warmth layer.
- Survivalists and preppers seeking a reliable emergency blanket.
- Anyone wanting a classic-looking wool blanket for general use.
- Those needing a blanket for their vehicle emergency kit.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals with sensitive skin who can’t tolerate wool blends.
- Those requiring extreme warmth in very cold conditions.
- People seeking a lightweight, highly packable blanket.
A must-have accessory would be a soft fleece or cotton liner to use between your skin and the blanket. This will mitigate any itchiness from the wool.
Conclusion on Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross
The Rothco Swiss Army Wool Blanket w/ Cross is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone needing a reliable warmth layer. While not the warmest or most luxurious blanket on the market, it provides a good balance of performance, durability, and affordability. Rothco delivers a decent quality product that gets the job done.
The price is certainly justified. The blanket offers good value for the money, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a no-frills, dependable wool blend blanket for general use, camping, or emergency preparedness. For the price, it’s tough to beat. Grab one and keep it in your car or camping kit. You’ll be glad you did when the temperature drops.