The Buyer’s Guide to Aprons
by Ellie Edwards
What are the different types of aprons?
Aprons come in a number of styles. Half aprons are typically worn in the hospitality industry by front of house staff. They have front pockets for carrying notebooks, however they are not as practical to wear when cooking as they don’t protect the top half of your body.
There are two main styles designed for cooks. A traditional loop-neck apron has one loop that goes around the neck and two long strings for tying at the waist, while a suspender apron has a cross-over back.
The style of apron you choose depends on personal preference, and which one you’re more comfortable in. Some people prefer a cross-back as it doesn’t pull on the neck, while others prefer a traditional apron as you can adjust the straps to fit you.
What makes a good kitchen apron?
A good kitchen apron should keep you protected during cooking, and feel comfortable to wear. Denim, leather and canvas are all durable materials that can be worn time and time again. A front pocket is a handy addition if you want to keep notepads or printed recipes with you in the kitchen. Some aprons come with carabiners, so you can keep utensils like tongs and spatulas close and keep your hands free.
What are aprons made of?
Our range of aprons are made of leather, canvas, denim or cotton. Read on for the benefits of each:
- Our leather aprons are finished in a transparent, dirt-repellent coating to keep them looking at their best. Plus, the leather will soften and develop a patina over time – the more you wear it, the better it will get.
- Denim aprons are durable, providing great protection from heat and sparks.
- A thick cotton apron is both hard-wearing and chic, ideal for when you’re both cooking and serving.
Which is the best apron to buy?
Best apron for BBQ lovers
Handmade from 100% full grain leather, the Dutchdeluxes BBQ apron in vintage brown is the effortlessly stylish way to protect your clothes while you’re at the grill. It keeps your clothes safe from ash, sparks and spitting fat whether you’re outside or in the kitchen.
The unique coating on this leather apron from Witloft protects your apron from dirts, stains and big scratches. Plus, it’s easy to wipe, so any spills will be cleaned away with ease. The apron coating means the leather will be stiff at first, but the more you wear it, the softer the leather will become. Think of it like breaking in a pair of boots!
Best apron for every activity
The Dutchdeluxes canvas suspender apron in dark blue is a comfortable, stylish way to protect your clothes wherever you are – at home in the kitchen, working in a coffee shop, or messy activities with the kids. The fully adjustable straps and slight stretch in the canvas make it comfortable to wear all day long.
Witloft’s classic leather apron in black is a smart and practical way to protect your clothes when you’re cooking, grilling, brewing or working with wood. The heat-resistant leather makes this apron a top choice for keen BBQers, too. The apron is hand-made from cow leather, with a canvas neck strap to offer maximum comfort. It’s adjustable at the neck and waist, too. The pure black colour contrasts beautifully with the brown canvas neck strap to create a stunning apron you’ll wear for life.
Best apron for a smart look
The Dutchdeluxes leather zipper apron in classic brown is so stylish and comfortable, you may never want to take it off. The mahogany-coloured leather seems to have its own inner glow and will make even a quick midweek dinner feel like a special occasion.
Best apron for putting in the wash
Witloft’s classic denim short apron in mid blue gives old jeans a new lease of life. Made from recycled denim, this organic cotton apron is a smart and stylish way to protect your clothes from cooking splashes and spills. The apron is adjustable at the neck and waist, so you can get it to fit just right.
The joy of denim is that it can be washed – ideal for messy cooks and bakers. When the apron gets dirty, simply pop it in the washing machine and it’ll be good as new.
About the author
Ellie Edwards is a food writer for Sous Chef. Previously she worked at olive magazine, writing about exciting new ingredients, UK restaurants and travelling the world to find the best cinnamon buns. When she's not exploring the likes of Belize, Kerala and Zanzibar, Ellie loves rustling up a feast in her London kitchen, with a particular passion for porridge, sourdough and negronis.
