Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron Evaluation

Discuss to virtually any skilled chef they usually’ll let you know that kitchen whites and aprons ought to at all times be white. That’s, it’s best to strive your darndest to be as clear and splatter-free as attainable. “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 fingers 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 varied colours and types and with all types 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 like that placing on the apron requires merely slipping it over my head. There’s no adjusting or finagling ties. Its large, 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 delightful, 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 hen thighs and doesn’t need to soiled his chinos. (Be aware: I did discover some opinions on Hedley & Bennett’s web site expressing a want for plus sizes.)

This apron has two spacious pockets—I often 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 Critical Eats staffer that’s smitten with the smock, although. “These smocks are sturdy, easy, and classy, 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 must 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 barely out there in a single measurement and isn’t adjustable. 

Why We’re the Specialists

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