Hedley & Bennett Smock Apron Assessment

Discuss 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 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 residence. 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’m going about my enterprise. Naturally, I’ve acquired fairly a group of aprons in numerous colours and kinds 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 really 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 turn out to be 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 hen thighs and doesn’t need to soiled his chinos. (Word: I did discover some opinions on Hedley & Bennett’s web site expressing a need 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 instances 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 classy, 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 must 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 just 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 Severe Eats commerce crew. She’s been with the location since 2021 and has been reviewing gear for greater than six years. 
• Riddley beforehand labored at America’s Check Kitchen, House Remedy Media, and Food52. 
• Riddley owns a number of Hedley & Bennett smock aprons.