Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron Evaluation

Speak to nearly any skilled chef they usually’ll let you know that kitchen whites and aprons ought to at all times be white. That’s, you need to attempt your darndest to be as clear and splatter-free as potential. “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 residence. If I’ve an apron on, I’m one to dry my palms 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 group 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 definitely not unique to the H&B model, I really like that placing on the apron requires merely slipping it over my head. There’s no adjusting or finagling ties. Its vast, crossback straps by no means get tangled or turn 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 wish to soiled his chinos. (Observe: I did discover some critiques 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 facet 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 really 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 may add customized embroidery. My husband received 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 machine cleanable however needs to be line dried and ironed as wanted. Due to the linen mix, I discover a fast iron is useful to deliver the smock again to type. 

What sizes do the Hedley & Bennett smock are available in? 

The apron is simply obtainable 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 staff. She’s been with the location since 2021 and has been reviewing tools for greater than six years. 
• Riddley beforehand labored at America’s Take a look at Kitchen, Residence Remedy Media, and Food52. 
• Riddley owns a number of Hedley & Bennett smock aprons.