Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron Evaluate

Discuss to virtually any skilled chef they usually’ll let you know that kitchen whites and aprons ought to all the time be white. That’s, you must attempt your darndest to be as clear and splatter-free as doable. “At Per Se we needed to change if we stained our whites,” says culinary editor Genevieve Yam.

I’ve by no means been this strict at dwelling. If I’ve an apron on, I’m one to dry my arms on it and never fear if I get a spot of oil or a smear of chocolate ganache on the material as I am going about my enterprise. Naturally, I’ve acquired fairly a set of aprons in numerous colours and kinds and with all kinds of straps and tying mechanisms. My very favourite—of which I personal a number of—is the Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron.

Why It’s Nice

This smock’s greatness lies in its ease, options, and sturdiness. Whereas that is actually not unique to the H&B model, I like that placing on the apron requires merely slipping it over my head. There’s no adjusting or finagling ties. Its huge, crossback straps by no means get tangled or develop into uncomfortable—and I’ve worn mine for eight hours straight whereas testing grill brushes and pizza ovens. The linen-cotton mix is breathable and exquisite, and due to the smock’s looseness, it’ll match many cooks comfortably. I, at 5’8” love my smock, however I’ve additionally seen my 6’8” husband throw one on when he’s Traeger-ing rooster thighs and doesn’t need to soiled his chinos. (Observe: I did discover some opinions on Hedley & Bennett’s web site expressing a want for plus sizes.)

This apron has two spacious pockets—I normally have my instant-read thermometer stashed in a single—and a devoted aspect strap for a towel to hold on. And I’ve actually washed mine dozens of occasions they usually’ve by no means shrunk. I’m not the one Severe Eats staffer that’s smitten with the smock, although. “These smocks are sturdy, easy, and trendy, and are nice for cooking and tackling family chores,” Genevieve says. “As somebody who by no means has sufficient pockets, I like that these smocks haven’t one, however two pockets!”

Notably, the H&B smock is available in dozens of colours and patterns. Plus, you’ll be able to add customized embroidery. My husband obtained me one with my initials on it as a present years in the past, and it’s simply the one I attain for many. 

FAQs

How do you clear the Hedley & Bennett smock apron? 

The apron is mechanically cleanable however ought to be line dried and ironed as wanted. Due to the linen mix, I discover a fast iron is useful to carry the smock again to type. 

What sizes do the Hedley & Bennett smock are available? 

The apron is barely accessible in a single measurement and isn’t adjustable. 

Why We’re the Specialists

• Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm is the affiliate editorial director for the Severe Eats commerce workforce. She’s been with the positioning since 2021 and has been reviewing gear for greater than six years. 
• Riddley beforehand labored at America’s Check Kitchen, Condo Remedy Media, and Food52. 
• Riddley owns a number of Hedley & Bennett smock aprons.