What Makes Field Company Cast Iron Different?
Field Company, a direct-to-consumer cookware brand based in Brooklyn, has gained a loyal following for its cast iron skillets that are significantly lighter than traditional options. The company's flagship No. 8 skillet weighs about 3.5 pounds, compared to a classic Lodge skillet of the same size which tips the scales at nearly 5 pounds. This reduction in weight is achieved through a thinner wall and base design, yet the skillet retains excellent heat retention and distribution.
Design and Build Quality
Field Company skillets are made in the USA using a proprietary blend of iron and a five-step finishing process that results in a smoother cooking surface than most cast iron pans. The skillet is pre-seasoned with grapeseed oil at the factory, and the seasoning is applied in multiple layers to ensure a non-stick surface out of the box. The handle is designed to stay cooler than traditional cast iron handles, thanks to a longer, angled shape that keeps your hand away from the heat, and it's also coated with a heat-resistant silicone grip on some models.
Performance in the Kitchen
In testing, the Field No. 8 skillet heated evenly across its surface, with no hot spots even on a gas burner. It seared a steak beautifully, achieving a deep brown crust, and scrambled eggs slid off the pan with minimal butter. The lighter weight makes it easier to toss vegetables or flip pancakes, a task that can be awkward with heavier cast iron. The skillet also works well in the oven, withstanding temperatures up to 500°F, making it suitable for cornbread or roasting.
Comparison to Competitors
Compared to Lodge, Field offers a smoother finish and lighter weight, but at a higher price point—the No. 8 sells for $145, while a comparable Lodge skillet costs around $30. Finex, another premium brand, offers a heavier, octagonal pan with a polished surface and a built-in cooling handle, but it costs over $200. Field strikes a balance between affordability and performance, appealing to cooks who want the benefits of cast iron without the heft.
Durability and Maintenance
Field's thinner construction raises questions about durability, but the company claims the pan is built to last a lifetime. In long-term testing, the skillet held up well, with the seasoning improving over time. Like all cast iron, it requires hand washing and drying immediately to prevent rust, but the smooth surface makes cleaning easier than rough-textured pans. Field recommends avoiding soap and using a stiff brush or chainmail scrubber for stuck-on food.
Who Should Buy Field Company Cast Iron?
Field Company skillets are ideal for home cooks who want the heat retention of cast iron but find traditional pans too heavy. They're also great for those who appreciate a smoother cooking surface and are willing to invest in a premium product. However, budget-conscious buyers or those who need a workhorse pan for camping may prefer the cheaper, heavier Lodge. Overall, Field Company offers a well-crafted, lightweight cast iron skillet that performs admirably in most kitchen tasks.
