Worth the Splurge? A Brutally Honest Review of HexClad UK Cookware
If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram kitchens or watched Gordon Ramsay clips, you’ve probably seen the futuristic sheen of HexClad pans. Described as the “hybrid revolution” in cookware, HexClad has made a splash in both the US and UK markets. But given the high prices and bold promises, one question remains: Is it really worth the effort? We put it to the test.
🔍 About HexClad UK: What Makes It Different?
HexClad ist eine Premium-Kochgeschirrmarke, die Edelstahl, Antihaftbeschichtung und Aluminium in einer „Hybrid“-Pfanne vereint. Das patentierte Sechseck-Design auf der Kochfläche dient nicht nur der Optik – es ist die Technologie, die es ermöglicht, Speisen wie in Edelstahl zu braten und gleichzeitig wie eine Antihaftbeschichtung zu lösen.
Here’s the technical breakdown of what you get:
- Laser-engraved hexagonal pattern: A blend of stainless steel spikes and non-stick dimples
- Triple-layer construction: Aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel layers
- Oven-safe up to 260°C
- Suitable for induction cookers
- Dishwasher-safe (but hand-washing is best)
So far, so good – but does the performance match the marketing?
Pros
- Incredible searing and browning — perfect for meats and proteins
- Non-stick without chemicals — PFOA-free hybrid surface
- Oven, dishwasher, and induction safe
- Lifetime warranty (yes, really)
- Professional-level performance for home chefs
Cons
- Pricey upfront investment
- Not quite as non-stick as Teflon (especially for low-fat cooking)
- Can be tricky to clean if food burns onto the etched surface
- Slightly heavier than standard pans
🛠️ What We Tested?
To keep things fair and thorough, we tested the following HexClad UK products daily while cooking over a period of 4 weeks:
We put them to the test with a variety of cooking tasks: pan-seared salmon, fluffy omelets, sticky sauces, grilled vegetables, and high-heat stir-fries.
Unboxing this set feels like leveling up your entire kitchen. It’s a serious upgrade — a full suite of pans and pots that feel as premium as they look.
- The variety: You get 8", 10", 12" frying pans, 1L, 2L, and 3L saucepans, a 30cm wok, and matching lids — all in one.
- Heat distribution is consistent and fast. No cold spots, even on an induction hob.
- Cleans like a dream, thanks to the non-stick hybrid surface.
This is an all-in-one investment for home chefs and serious foodies. Whether you’re flipping pancakes or slow-cooking stew, this set performs beautifully. It's dishwasher-safe too, which is a huge win.
Small but mighty. This is your go-to for single servings, eggs, or a quick sear.
- Ideal for everyday use — especially breakfast.
- Nothing sticks. You can fry an egg with no oil.
- Compact but still heavy-duty. Feels balanced in-hand.
It’s our new breakfast bestie. Heats fast, cooks evenly, and wipes clean with barely a swipe.
This pan is built like a tank but handles like a sports car. With deep walls and sturdy handles, it's clearly made for serious roasting.
- Roasts meats and veg perfectly — crispy outside, juicy inside.
- Easy to lift in and out of the oven.
- Minimal sticking even with sticky sauces and glazes.
We roasted a whole chicken and it was golden perfection. Also great for casseroles, lasagna, and even baking.
This one’s a powerhouse. Large, deep, and ready for action — from frying chicken to simmering curry.
- Huge capacity but not clunky to use.
- Comes with a tempered glass lid for splatter control.
- Great for braising, deep-frying, and one-pan meals.
We made a family-size risotto, and the pan handled it effortlessly — no sticking, no burning, just even cooking throughout.
Small but super useful — ideal for boiling eggs, making porridge, or reheating soup.
- Easy to store and perfect for daily tasks.
- Lidded design traps heat well, so things cook faster.
- Pours without drips, thanks to the precision edge.
This has become our everyday workhorse for small stovetop needs. Bonus: it’s cute enough to leave out.
A jaw-dropping knife set. The block alone is a showpiece, and the knives? Razor-sharp and beautifully balanced.
- Premium VG10 Japanese steel — these things slice like butter.
- The magnetic block is sleek and space-saving.
- The magnetic block is sleek and space-saving.
We chopped, sliced, and diced everything from root veg to raw chicken. These knives feel like pro tools — sharp, precise, and ergonomic.
🔥 Performance Review: Does HexClad Live Up to the Hype?
🥩 Searing & Browning
Exceptional. The stainless steel grate maintains even heat and produces golden-brown crusts on proteins—think steakhouse cooking without the smokehouse.
🍳 Non-Stick Ability
Surprisingly impressive. Despite the stainless steel surface, the eggs slid off easily with minimal oil. You do have to preheat the pan thoroughly, but if you master the technique correctly, the egg release is almost like using a conventional nonstick coating, without the Teflon problems.
🧽 Ease of Cleaning
This is where problems arise. While cleaning is easier than with stainless steel pans, it’s not as easy as with ceramic-coated pans. Burnt-on bits stick to the hexagonal pattern, but a quick soak and gentle scrubbing will make it shine again.
🔥 Heat Distribution & Control
Excellent heat retention and distribution. Whether used on gas or induction, HexClad pans heat evenly and stay hot, allowing for consistent cooking even at lower temperatures.
💬 What Real Customers Are Saying?
📦 Shipping, Returns & Warranty
While HexClad offers gourmet kitchen services, what about the behind-the-scenes service? Here’s what you should know beforehand:
🚚 Shipping (UK Customers):
HexClad offers free standard UK shipping on most orders – no minimum spend required. Whether you purchase a single frying pan or the complete 13-piece set, your order will be shipped at no additional charge.
- Delivery time: Standard orders are typically delivered within 2–5 business days.
- Tracking: After shipping, you will receive an email with all tracking information so you can track the progress of your cookware.
- Packaging: Products are delivered securely packaged in high-quality, recyclable packaging – environmentally friendly and undamaged upon arrival.
🔁 Returns & Exchanges:
If you’re still not completely convinced after receiving your cookware, there’s still time to change your mind.
- Return Policy: HexClad offers a 30-day risk-free trial for all orders.
- Condition: Items must be returned in like-new condition, ideally in their original packaging.
- Returns: You are responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to a faulty or defective product.
- How to proceed: Simply contact customer service via the website. We will be happy to assist you with a smooth return or exchange process.
🛡 Warranty Coverage:
This is where HexClad truly shines. Their cookware is not only built to last—it also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
- Coverage includes: manufacturing defects, warping, delamination, or processing defects.
- Not covered: damage caused by improper use, overheating, drops, dishwasher damage, or improper cleaning with abrasive cleaners.
- How to report damage: Simply contact HexClad Support with your receipt and photos of the problem. Many customers report quick resolutions and courteous service.
🧪 Final Verdict: Is HexClad UK Cookware Worth It?
If you cook frequently, value professional tools, and don’t mind a little maintenance, HexClad is absolutely worth the investment. The hybrid design offers the best of both worlds—crispy searing and easy release—in a single pan that feels durable.
Is it suitable for everyone? Not necessarily. If you only cook occasionally or prefer lightweight, easy-care cookware, the price and maintenance requirements may outweigh the benefits.
But for serious home cooks? HexClad is an investment you’ll use daily, not store in a cupboard.
🛒 Where to Buy?
👉 Shop Now