Cody Casey
HexClad pans are a type of hybrid cookware that combines the benefits of stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick pans. They are designed to offer even heat distribution, durability, and a non-stick surface. HexClad pans are made with a patented design that features a hexagonal pattern on the bottom of a stainless-steel pan, created through a laser-etching process. The pans are constructed with aluminium, making them safe for high-heat use and providing a nice sear. They also feature a proprietary ceramic non-stick coating called TerraBond™, which is PTFE-free and free from forever chemicals. HexClad pans are marketed as a premium product, with endorsements from celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, and are priced higher than comparable cookware options.
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What You'll Learn
Hexclad pans are a type of hybrid cookware
The pans feature an aluminium core for even heating and a magnetic steel base, making them compatible with all cooktops, including induction. The stainless steel design also allows for the use of metal utensils, although sharp tools are not recommended to avoid scratches. Hexclad pans are oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C) and the tempered glass lids that come with the pans are oven-safe up to 400°F (204°C).
The non-stick coating on Hexclad pans has changed over time. Older pans were coated with a high-grade non-toxic Japanese coating infused with diamond dust, which contained PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, or Teflon). Newer pans have a PTFE-free ceramic non-stick coating called TerraBond™, which is also free from "forever chemicals".
Hexclad pans are marketed as durable, with some reviewers noting that they are heavier and sturdier than traditional non-stick pans. However, the pans are not recommended for high-heat cooking, which may impact their performance for certain types of cooking, such as searing meat. The pans are also on the expensive side, with prices comparable to high-end stainless steel cookware.
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They combine stainless steel with a non-stick surface
HexClad pans are made by combining stainless steel with a non-stick surface. This hybrid design offers the benefits of both materials, aiming to address the drawbacks of traditional pans. Stainless steel is known for its durability and even heat distribution, but it can be prone to sticking. Non-stick pans, on the other hand, are easy to use but tend to be delicate and lack the longevity of stainless steel.
HexClad's patented design features a unique surface that combines these two materials. The pan's surface is characterised by stainless steel hexagon peaks, providing a sturdy and durable base that distributes heat evenly. Nestled within these peaks are non-stick valleys, coated with HexClad's proprietary ceramic non-stick material, TerraBond™. This innovative design ensures that food doesn't stick to the pan while also providing the durability and heat distribution of stainless steel.
The combination of stainless steel and non-stick surfaces offers a fuss-free cooking experience. Users don't have to worry about using specific utensils that might damage the coating, as is the case with some ceramic pans. The HexClad pan can withstand metal utensils without compromising its non-stick properties. This feature provides peace of mind for cooks who want to use safer materials without damaging their cookware.
In addition to its non-stick and durability properties, the HexClad pan also delivers on performance and convenience. The stainless steel component ensures even heat distribution, similar to that of a cast iron pan, without the cumbersome weight. This allows for precise cooking and the ability to achieve the perfect sear. The non-stick valleys further enhance the cooking experience, making cleanup a breeze.
The HexClad Hybrid Fry Pan Set with Lids is a popular option for those seeking the advantages of this unique combination of materials. The set offers a range of pan sizes suitable for various cooking tasks, from scrambled eggs to sizzling steaks. With its proprietary Hybrid technology, dishwasher-safe construction, and oven-safe design, the HexClad pan set provides a comprehensive solution for cooks seeking performance, durability, and convenience in their cookware.
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They are durable, but food can still stick to them
HexClad pans are designed to be durable. They are made with a combination of stainless steel, cast iron, and a non-stick coating. The stainless steel is laser-etched to create a hexagonal pattern, which is layered over a non-stick surface. This design is intended to provide both durability and convenience, allowing the use of metal utensils without scratching the surface.
However, despite their durability claims, food can still stick to HexClad pans. This is because the non-stick "valleys" are interrupted by the stainless steel hexagons or "ridges". As a result, proper pan heating and the use of oil or butter are necessary to prevent food from sticking. For example, when cooking eggs, it is recommended to use oil or butter to prevent them from sticking to the pan's surface.
The non-stick coating on HexClad pans has also changed over time. Initially, the pans were coated with a high-grade non-toxic Japanese coating infused with diamond dust, which contained PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon). However, more recent versions of the pans have replaced this coating with a proprietary ceramic non-stick coating called TerraBond™, which is PTFE-free and free from "forever chemicals".
While the new coating addresses potential health concerns associated with PTFE, it does not completely eliminate food sticking to the pan. Some users have reported that the HexClad pans are not as non-stick as claimed, and that food can still adhere to the surface, especially when not using oil or butter.
Overall, while HexClad pans offer improved durability compared to traditional non-stick pans, they may still require the use of oils or fats to prevent food from sticking, particularly when cooking delicate foods like eggs.
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They are expensive, but may not be worth the price
HexClad pans are expensive, retailing at prices comparable to All-Clad pans, which are considered the standard by many chefs. For example, the 3.3-quart Hybrid Deep Saute Pan costs $179, and the smallest pan in the range, a 7-inch fry pan, is over $100. A 12-piece Hybrid Pots & Pans Set costs $699.99.
However, despite their high price, HexClad pans may not be worth the money. Firstly, they are not truly non-stick. While food is less likely to stick to the pan than with traditional stainless steel, the non-stick "valleys" are broken up by stainless steel webbing, so you still need to use oil or butter to cook eggs, for example. This means that, in practice, these pans are neither the best stainless steel nor the best non-stick cookware.
Additionally, to maximise the durability of the pans, you shouldn't heat them to high temperatures, which means that you can't build up a good fond. This also means that you have to use low to medium heat, which can be inconvenient if you are used to cooking on high heat.
The pans are also heavy, which could cause strain for some users, and the handles are hard to grip, increasing the risk of burns.
Overall, while HexClad pans have some positive features, such as durability and even heating, the drawbacks suggest that they may not be worth the high price tag.
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They have an unusual design, with a curvy handle
Hexclad pans are known for their unusual design and distinctive appearance. They feature a unique combination of materials, with etched, raised stainless steel hexagons covering the surface and "nonstick valleys" in between. This hybrid design aims to offer the benefits of both non-stick and stainless steel cookware. However, the presence of the stainless steel ridges means that food can still stick to the pan, especially when not using oil or butter.
The pans have an aluminium core for even heating and a magnetic steel base, making them compatible with all cooktops, including induction. They are oven-safe up to temperatures of 500°F (or 400°F for the lids), and dishwasher-safe, although handwashing is recommended to maintain their appearance over time.
The design of Hexclad pans includes a curvy handle, which some users have found challenging to grip. The handle features a bulbous centre that stays cool to the touch, but the thinner metal piece closer to the pan can pose a burn hazard if a secure grip is not maintained. This handle design is one aspect that distinguishes Hexclad pans from other brands, such as All-Clad, which are known for their relatively easier-to-grip handles.
Overall, while Hexclad pans offer a unique design and combine the properties of different cookware materials, the handle design may require some adjustment for users accustomed to more conventional pan handles. The curvy handle of the Hexclad pans contributes to their distinctive appearance and sets them apart from traditional pan designs.
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Frequently asked questions
Hexclad pans are made with aluminum, stainless steel, and a non-stick coating. The pans also feature a hexagonal pattern on the bottom of the pan, created through a laser-etching process.
Hexclad pans combine the benefits of cast iron, stainless steel, and non-stick pans. They are sturdy, distribute heat evenly, retain a lot of heat, and are non-stick. They are also dishwasher-safe, oven-safe, and safe to use with metal utensils.
Hexclad pans offer a more durable non-stick coating that is PTFE-free and free from forever chemicals. The textured surface of the pans also provides better searing power than other non-stick pans.
Hexclad pans are more expensive than other options on the market, but many users find that they are worth the investment due to their durability, performance, and ease of use. The pans come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects.
