HexClad 13pc Cookware Review

HexClad Overview

Shopping for cookware we usually select between Nonstick, Stainless Steel, or Cast Iron. They all have their pros and cons. HexClad cookware aims to combine the benefits of all cookware types. It combines a nonstick surface with a raised stainless steel that claims it can sear like cast iron.

I am not an expert at cooking, just a normal guy cooking for his family. I have used a handful of different cookware over my lifetime. This is my personal experience as a home consumer looking to make an educated decision if the $700.00 USD HexClad cookware set is worth the cost.

HexClad Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy Cleaning	Cost
Non-Stick with Oil	Food Sticks
Even-Heat	Coloring
Solid Build	Negative Reviews
Dishwasher & Steel Scrubber Safe	Expensive

What is HexClad Cookware?

HexClad cookware uses a PFOA-free nonstick surface with a raised bubble-like texture Hex pattern of stainless steel. This hybrid design aims to provide the benefits of non-stick with the durability of stainless steel. The stainless steel allows for metal utensils to be used on the cookware as well as provides a better searing surface.

The core of Hexclad is aluminum to cut down on weight and distribute heat evenly. It is also magnetic and will work on induction cooktops.

Design

HexClad cookware is a strong feeling in hand. The handles are securely attached and feel like they should stay solid for years to come. The “Hex” design on the cooking surface looks really cool but gets dirty quickly and easily.  All of the pots and pans have similar construction and high-quality feel to them. Much more than other cheaper cookware I have used in the past.

The hexagonal pattern is a raised etching in the cookware that leaves the peaks of steel with the valley full of non-stick. This allows you to use metal utensils on the surface because it only contacts the raised surface and not the non-stick surface.

Keep in mind, this surface is not perfectly non-stick and non-scratch. Even stainless steel or other cookware can scratch, but it is scratch-resistant. Please head HexClad warning not to heat the cookware above 500 degrees, the non-stick surface can release toxic chemicals. If there is damage to the cookware HexClad offers a lifetime warrentee.

Cooking Performance

Electric, gas, grill, and oven (up to 500 degrees) make the cooking options versatile. The pots and pan heat quickly and evenly. I found that I had to use a fair amount of oil to achieve a “non-stick” fried egg trick in the frying pan. 

I have used pots and pans to cook fish, steak, pork, omelets, and many other traditional family foods. I get the best results when I make sure the pans are well-oiled. On my gas stove, the center is slightly cooler then maintains consistent heat toward the outer edge of the pan. I also found the same with the pots. The Wok has a well-designed shape and has been a favorite for making stir fry. I love being able to use metal spoons and spatulas to cook with the HexClad. I usually have a spoon in hand when cooking and always cringe or gently try to use it with non-stick cookware. I like not having to worry about destroying the HexClad cookware with metal utencils.

Non-Stick Performance

Previously, I had been using a copper fry pan that was extremely non-stick from the first few uses, but over a year became less worthy, and more difficult to clean. The HexClad isn’t as non-stick as the copper fry pan was at its best, but overall it was easier to clean, and still gave pretty good results. With a little bit of extra effort 

A lot of video reviews I have watched on the HexClad love to show food sticking to the pans. I too had a similar experience unless I use a lot of oil. Other reviewers of the HexClad fail to point out that while food may still stick to the pans they are much easier to clean than other cookware. Cast iron cleaning has given me carpel tunnel over the years from scrubbing. A little drop of soap and a brush are usually enough to clean the pans from any food residue.

Durability

The pots and pans have a heavy-duty feel to them. On average a similarly priced non-stick pan picked up from a local store would weigh about a pound more.  Hexclad is 3 layers of metal and still heats up quickly and allows you to cook at a lower heat. 

The rim handles, and lids are all high quality as should be expected for the price.

Cleaning

I love being able to use a stainless steel scrubber to clean the cookware. HexClad states that using this is safe. However, I do have some concerns that the stainless steel scrubber can still reach the non-stick surface and over time cause issues. For the past few months, the cookware has remained looking new for the most part.

The image above shows how food buildup on the outside of the pan can be a bit more difficult to clean that the actual cooking surface. Overall, I’m much happier cleaning the HexClad pots and pans than haveing to be overly cautious with a non-stick pan or work for hours cleaning cast-iron.

Comparison

HexClad vs. Stainless Steel

When comparing the HexClad to stainless steel the main question is can the heat properly sear the food as well as stainless steel? With my comparison, I found that It could sear steaks but not as good as cast iron or Stainless steel, but was better than a traditional non-stick pan. The HexClad was always easier to clean for me than stainless steel.

HexClad vs. Non-Stick

HexClad is an easy choice over a traditional non-stick pan. The durability of the HexClad as well as being able to use more abrasive cleaning tools with it makes it an easy decision.  However, this comes at a cost. HexClad can easily cost 2 to 3 times more than traditional non-stick pans.

I cooked eggs, steak, and vegetables and would choose to use the HexClad cookware over a non-stick pan every time. I think the quality feel of the HexClad, it’s pretty good non-stick surface, and the ability to scrub the pan after make it an easy choice for me.

HexClad vs. Cast Iron

I love searing my steaks on cast iron, the HexClad was up against a tough competitor. For searing purposes, I would choose cast iron. I feel like I got a better crust on my steak from cast iron that appealed more to me that the light crust from the HexClad.

Other HexClad Reviews

There are some great reviews that others have done on HexClad here are a few of my favorites that follow my experience and feelings about the cookware after I have used it the past few months.

Why Buy HexClad?

Amazon.com has similar-sized cookware sets as cheap as $200 USD. Is the HexClad set really 4 times better? HexClad is a good choice for the general homeowner. The 13-piece kit is $600. That isn’t ridiculous when compared to other cookware sets of similar sizes. When you pick up the HexClad cookware you feel the heavy weight and it feels like it’s built better than most cheap cookware.

If you are a casual cooker and are looking for something easy to cook on and clean that will last years to come or you can warranty the cookware if there are any issues with it. It’s a safe bet and a worthwhile investment.