The Ultimate Hybrid Cookware: Hexclad Hybrid Pot Set Reviewed

HexClad's Hybrid Cookware Set is a premium offering for home chefs seeking a durable, versatile, and convenient all-in-one solution. The set includes a range of pots and pans with lids, designed to meet various cooking needs. Its unique selling point is its patented hybrid design, which combines the benefits of stainless steel and non-stick cookware. This innovative approach delivers the searing power and durability of stainless steel with the easy cleanup of non-stick.

The HexClad set stands out for its ability to handle metal utensils without damaging the non-stick coating, thanks to its raised stainless steel peaks and recessed non-stick valleys. This hybrid design also provides better grip and searing than traditional non-stick pans, while still offering the convenience of quick release and easy cleanup. The cookware's tri-ply construction, featuring an aluminium core between two layers of stainless steel, ensures even heat distribution and excellent heat retention.

The HexClad Hybrid Cookware Set is compatible with all standard stovetops, including induction, and is oven-safe up to 500°F. Its ergonomic handles stay cool during stovetop use, although oven mitts are recommended after oven use. The set is also dishwasher-safe, adding to its convenience.

While the HexClad set is priced higher than many non-stick options, its durability, performance, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium cooking experience.

Hexclad's hybrid design

The steel hexagons allow heat to be distributed evenly across the pan, while the PFOA-free non-stick coating prevents food from sticking. The magnetic steel base makes the pan compatible with induction cooktops, and it is oven-safe up to 500°F.

The hybrid design also gives the pan more versatility than traditional non-stick pans. It can grip food and sear meat better, and can be used to cook crispy bacon, sear salmon, roast chicken, and fry chicken cutlets. It also heats up quickly, maintains a stable temperature, and delivers consistent results.

Pros and cons

Pros

• HexClad cookware is designed to combine the best elements of cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick pans.
• It is sturdy, resilient, and retains heat well.
• It distributes heat evenly and is non-stick.
• It is dishwasher-safe, scratch-resistant, and oven-safe up to 500°F.
• It is compatible with all types of cooktops, including induction.
• It is metal utensil-safe.
• It has a lifetime warranty.
• It is easy to clean.
• It is aesthetically pleasing.

Cons

• It is expensive.
• Food may stick if the pan is not properly preheated or oiled.
• The handles may be too short, round, and slippery for some users.
• The handles are polished, so they require regular buffing to remove smudges and fingerprints.
• It may scratch glass cooktops.
• It may be too heavy for some users.

Customer reviews

HexClad's hybrid cookware has received generally positive reviews from customers. Many customers have praised the cookware's ease of cleaning, material, durability, heat distribution, non-stick surfaces, and value for money.

One customer who left a positive review said:

> "These pans are great. They distribute heat very well, can go in the oven and are extremely easy to clean."

Another customer praised the cookware's durability, saying:

> "I think they will last forever and [are] worth the money."

However, some customers have criticised the cookware for being expensive, heavy, and having short and round handles that can make tilting the pan tricky.

One negative review said:

> "The thing that sets HexClad apart from the competition is its unique design. [...] HexClad is expensive and is not worth buying in all scenarios."

Price and value

HexClad's hybrid cookware is a premium product with a price tag to match. The 12-piece cookware set, which includes a 6-piece frying pan set and a 6-piece pot set, is listed at $729.99, although it is currently unavailable. The 6-piece pot set on its own is $399.99, while the 6-piece frying pan set is $359.99.

While HexClad's products are expensive, the price is somewhat justified by their performance and durability. The unique hybrid design, which combines the best elements of cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick cookware, offers even heating, excellent heat retention, and easy cleaning. The non-stick coating is protected by raised stainless steel peaks, which prevents utensils from scratching the surface and prolongs the coating's lifespan. HexClad's products are also versatile, suitable for use with induction, gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops, and oven-safe up to 500°F.

The high price of HexClad's cookware may be a sticking point for some, especially when compared to other premium brands like All-Clad and Mauviel, and cheaper non-stick options. However, HexClad's products offer a unique combination of durability and ease of use, making them a good choice for those seeking an all-purpose cookware set.

Comparison to other brands

HexClad is a hybrid cookware brand that combines the best elements of cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick pans. Its unique design features a laser-etched honeycomb pattern of slightly raised stainless steel, interwoven with a premium PFOA-free non-stick surface. This makes it more durable than traditional non-stick pans, allowing the use of metal utensils without damaging the non-stick coating.

However, HexClad's non-stick properties are not as effective as traditional non-stick pans. Food will stick to the pan's surface if not properly preheated or oiled. Additionally, its raised hexagonal pattern may scratch glass cooktops, though this is a rare occurrence.

Compared to other brands, HexClad is more expensive than most non-stick options on the market. However, its higher price is justified by its durability and versatility. It is also comparable to premium brands like All-Clad and Mauviel.

• Anolon X: Similar hybrid design but made of aluminum, making it lighter and more affordable.
• Henckels HXagon: Similar hybrid design but with a higher ratio of exposed stainless steel, resulting in better browning.
• Cooksy: Similar hybrid design but with a rivet-less handle, making it easier to clean.
• Frieling Black Cube: Similar hybrid design but with a rivet-less handle, and significantly more affordable.
• Made In: Instead of a hybrid pan, Made In offers separate non-stick and stainless steel pans, providing more control and better results.

Frequently asked questions