Hybrid Stainless Steel 7-Piece Set

Score: 7.2/10 | HexClad offers genuinely innovative hybrid construction and delivers on its durability promises. But for families prioritizing PFAS-free cookware, the PTFE-based nonstick coating is a significant consideration that may steer you toward other options.

This review uses the R3 Cookware Methodology v1.0.0, which evaluates cookware across six pillars: Safety (35%), Efficacy (30%), Value (15%), Usability (10%), Sustainability (5%), and Suitability (5%).

This is where HexClad requires honest disclosure. The nonstick valleys in their hexagon pattern use PTFE-based coating - the same polymer family as traditional Teflon.

HexClad states their coating is:

• PFOA-free (the specific chemical phased out in 2015)
• Made with "diamond dust" for durability
• Safe to 500F before degradation

However, PTFE itself is a fluoropolymer, and some PFAS-concerned families specifically want to avoid all fluorinated compounds. The EWG and other health advocacy groups recommend avoiding PTFE cookware, particularly at high temperatures where it can release fumes.

For families specifically seeking PFAS-free cookware, HexClad is not the answer. For families primarily concerned about PFOA (the specific harmful compound), HexClad meets that standard.

Setting aside the coating chemistry, HexClad performs impressively:

• Excellent durability - the hybrid design genuinely withstands metal utensils
• Good heat distribution from the tri-ply stainless steel construction
• Genuine nonstick performance that lasts longer than pure ceramic options
• Oven-safe to 500F and induction compatible

The hexagon pattern is not just aesthetic - the raised stainless peaks allow fond to develop for deglazing, while the nonstick valleys enable easy food release. It genuinely attempts to offer both worlds.

User reviews confirm better longevity than ceramic alternatives, with many reporting 3-5 years of good performance before noticeable decline.

The 7-piece set runs $699 and includes:

• 8", 10", and 12" fry pans
• 2-quart, 3-quart, and 8-quart pots with lids

This is premium pricing, but durability appears to justify it for users who appreciate the hybrid concept. Cost-per-year is reasonable if performance lasts 4-5 years as reported.

HexClad offers a lifetime warranty which suggests confidence in their product.

Yes, Gordon Ramsay endorses HexClad. Celebrity endorsements should be viewed skeptically - Ramsay is a paid partner. But professional reviews and user feedback largely support that the product performs as advertised, independent of the celebrity marketing.

HexClad is a well-engineered hybrid pan that delivers on durability and performance promises. But the PTFE-based nonstick coating means this is not appropriate for families specifically seeking PFAS-free cookware. If your primary concern is durability and versatility rather than eliminating all fluoropolymers, HexClad merits consideration. If avoiding all PTFE/PFAS is your priority, look at ceramic options or uncoated stainless steel instead.

Score: 7.2/10 | HexClad offers genuinely innovative hybrid construction and delivers on its durability promises. But for families prioritizing PFAS-free cookware, the PTFE-based nonstick coating is a significant consideration that may steer you toward other options.

This review uses the R3 Cookware Methodology v1.0.0, which evaluates cookware across six pillars: Safety (35%), Efficacy (30%), Value (15%), Usability (10%), Sustainability (5%), and Suitability (5%).

This is where HexClad requires honest disclosure. The nonstick valleys in their hexagon pattern use PTFE-based coating - the same polymer family as traditional Teflon.

HexClad states their coating is:

• PFOA-free (the specific chemical phased out in 2015)
• Made with "diamond dust" for durability
• Safe to 500F before degradation

However, PTFE itself is a fluoropolymer, and some PFAS-concerned families specifically want to avoid all fluorinated compounds. The EWG and other health advocacy groups recommend avoiding PTFE cookware, particularly at high temperatures where it can release fumes.

For families specifically seeking PFAS-free cookware, HexClad is not the answer. For families primarily concerned about PFOA (the specific harmful compound), HexClad meets that standard.

Setting aside the coating chemistry, HexClad performs impressively:

• Excellent durability - the hybrid design genuinely withstands metal utensils
• Good heat distribution from the tri-ply stainless steel construction
• Genuine nonstick performance that lasts longer than pure ceramic options
• Oven-safe to 500F and induction compatible

The hexagon pattern is not just aesthetic - the raised stainless peaks allow fond to develop for deglazing, while the nonstick valleys enable easy food release. It genuinely attempts to offer both worlds.

User reviews confirm better longevity than ceramic alternatives, with many reporting 3-5 years of good performance before noticeable decline.

The 7-piece set runs $699 and includes:

• 8", 10", and 12" fry pans
• 2-quart, 3-quart, and 8-quart pots with lids

This is premium pricing, but durability appears to justify it for users who appreciate the hybrid concept. Cost-per-year is reasonable if performance lasts 4-5 years as reported.

HexClad offers a lifetime warranty which suggests confidence in their product.

Yes, Gordon Ramsay endorses HexClad. Celebrity endorsements should be viewed skeptically - Ramsay is a paid partner. But professional reviews and user feedback largely support that the product performs as advertised, independent of the celebrity marketing.

HexClad is a well-engineered hybrid pan that delivers on durability and performance promises. But the PTFE-based nonstick coating means this is not appropriate for families specifically seeking PFAS-free cookware. If your primary concern is durability and versatility rather than eliminating all fluoropolymers, HexClad merits consideration. If avoiding all PTFE/PFAS is your priority, look at ceramic options or uncoated stainless steel instead.