Preamble: We have a mix of lightweight ancient Farberware and Revere pots, and no longer nonstick pans that all need to go.... I am on-board with getting better quality SS. I made the rounds yesterday to see and touch what is available in local brick and mortar and was very surprised to find that damn near all of it, including All Clad, has shitty handles that are difficult and uncomfortable to grip. Based on how they felt to me empty, I can't imagine I would like them hot and full. While I am not sure she will make the effort to use the SS, if she does, this is of particular concern for wife, who has some arthritis and grip issues. Between my own pickiness and her legitimate issue, I am concerned for buying something online that I cannot inspect before pulling the trigger.
More setup: Of all the things I saw in person yesterday, the Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad (Made by Hestan) had the most secure and comfortable feeling handles. They felt great! Googles suggests that while the pot lids are different, these are otherwise substantially the same pots and pans as Hestan Probond, but no one had that line on display to see and hold. Googles reviews the WS Thermo Clad and the Hestan Probond as comparable to All Clad D3 and Made In. In addition to those, my Googles has caused me to be inundated with ads on social media, of which Heritage Steel (Clarksville, TN) seems like a worthy contender.
Questions: Does anyone have any real world experience with Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad, Hestan Probond, Made In, and/or Heritage Steel? They all have good reviews and seem of similar quality and price. I am particularly interested in knowing about handle grip and comfort for the three that I cannot see and hold in the stores - Hestan, Made In, and Heritage Steel.