Best Chef’s Hats
While the original “Toque Blanche” (or white hat) worn by top chefs and dating back to 19th century France was used as a functional yet hygienic accessory to denote rank (in fact, the taller the hat, the more senior the chef), many of today’s at-home designs take a cheeky poke at this once prestigious topper. And what remains a badge of honor in culinary circles, is now a fun, yet functional accessory that can be worn by all who don an apron and know their way around a kitchen.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Chef’s Hat?
While you may consider the iconic chef’s hat to be along the lines of a gag gift or Hallowe’en costume accessory, it actually serves a purpose. And you don’t have to be in the same league as a professional chef to benefit from this handy kitchen essential. For starters, not only does it prevent hair from dangling into your food prep area, but the wider band is ideal for keeping sweat at bay rather than trickling down your face as you work. And because so many options have been designed with long hair in mind, you can toss that unsightly hair net and cook like a pro, wearing this pristine topper.
What to Look for When Buying a Chef’s Hat
Material
As an integral part of any chef’s uniform, this toque or chef’s hat is typically worn in place for extended periods and often under hot working conditions. Therefore, you want a material that is breathable and can allow warm air to escape as you cook your way through a busy day. So, look for a product that is vented for ideal air circulation, breathable, and with some brands, even constructed with moisture-wicking fabrics that can help to draw sweat away from the brow for a more comfortable feel.
Adjustability
When your end goal is simply efficient food prep – either over a stove-top or a chopping block – the last thing you want is a hat that tips forward or constantly slips off to the side. And that’s why you’ll find so many of today’s designs include adjustable Velcro closures, clips/snaps, self-adhesive pads, or even elastic sides that can instantly adapt to your head shape and size for a more custom fit. Whether you prefer a snugger feel or something a little looser that can be easily removed, the options are limitless.
Maintenance
Many of the reusable Chef’s hats are made using a polyester blend that can be machine-washed without losing its shape. This is ideal for white hats where you don’t need to worry about fading however if you opt for bright patterns and colors, you may find the manufacturer recommends hand-washing only, to prevent bleeding. For those who plan to wear their hat regularly and want a quick-clean process, this is an important detail you’ll want to check out. But if you just want to add a little fun to a family meal or barbecue, consider going with the pattern or darker color that won’t show all those greasy splatters or your favorite BBQ sauces.
Top Chefs Hats
Hyzrz One-Size-Fits-All Chef’s Hat with Elasticized Band
Best for Easy Wear
Everyone will know that the “grand fromage” has just entered the kitchen when you don this classic white chef’s hat. Made from a lightweight cotton/polyester blend, this pouf-shaped topper is ideal for cooks with a fuller head of hair that needs to be held back and concealed while cooking. The wider band of this cap is ideal for monogramming with an individual or restaurant name and because it’s a one-size-fits-all design, it makes a fun, fool-proof gift for the beginner chef. An elasticized back ensures a comfortably snug fit that easily provides the balance and stability you want when leaning over a hot stove. And because it’s machine washable, this chef’s hat stays crisp and professional looking. Even if you’re simply barbecuing burgers in your yard.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
This professional-grade topper is perfect for the home chef that wants to look the part when prepping dinner. It’s lightweight, machine-washable, and fits most adult-sized heads.
Pros:
- Wider band for stability
- Elasticized for a comfortable fit
- One-size-fits-all
- Generous size for longer hair
Cons:
- Not vented
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 1 per pack
Material: Cotton/polyester blend
Adjustable: No
Maintenance: Machine-wash/tumble dry
LilMents 6-Pack Vented Chefs Hats with Bold Check-Pattern
Best for Making a Fun Statement
The best parties always end up in the kitchen and when you and your crew are wearing these fun checkered patterned chef’s hats, its easy to see why. Made from a durable cotton/polyester blend, these pouf-style hats are ideal for keeping hair up and off your face as you cook. A generous vent in back helps you maintain your cool, while the elastic closure ensures a snug, yet comfortable fit that won’t tip forward each time you lean down – important when you’re working over a fiery grill. And because they come in a six-pack, you have enough to outfit every one of your kitchen helpers – or to just tuck them away and pull out fresh each day for personal use. Best of all, they’re hand-washable and reusable.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
These reusable hats are not only fun, but functional and are ideal for outfitting kitchen helpers during a family event, or for dressing to impress when you’re the chef.
Pros:
- Fun, pattern
- Wide brim for stability
- Back venting
- Elasticized fit
Cons:
- Not machine-washable
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 6 per pack
Material: Cotton/polyester blend
Adjustable: No
Maintenance: Hand wash only
Chef Works Beanie-Style Chef’s Hat with Moisture Wicking Fabric
Best for Venting
For a practical yet professional look, this beanie-style chef’s hat is the way to go. Not only is the entire top surface of this cap vented to allow warm air to continually escape as you work, but it’s made from an award-winning blend of polyester/cotton that wicks away moisture. So, you’ll be slicing, dicing, and sautéing in total comfort – regardless of how hot your working conditions may get. An easy-reach Velcro closure at the back allows you to adjust for a perfect fit while the cap is in place. It also makes this compact chef’s beanie a one-size-fits-all option – perfect for chefs who need to outfit an entire kitchen brigade. Built to last, these durable chef’s hats can be machine washed on warm, without fading or losing shape.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
This is an ideal option for the professional or home chef who wants a streamlined cap that not only keeps hair up and away from food prep areas but is also well-vented for enhanced comfort.
Pros:
- Streamlined, beanie design
- Fully vented top panel
- Adjustable Velcro strap
- Wicks sweat/moisture
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide full coverage
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 1 per pack
Material: Polyester/cotton blend
Adjustable: Yes
Maintenance: Machine-wash warm
Nanxson 3-Pack Cap-Style Chef’s Hat with Expandable Hair Net
Best for Longer Hair
If the only head covering that works for you is one that helps to control a longer mane or unruly hair, then there’s little point in opting for a standard chef’s hat or beanie that ultimately covers just the upper portion of your head. What you need is this cap-style chef’s hat that delivers the more fulsome level of coverage you’re looking for. And not only does this topper offer a fully vented mesh-back that expands to allow for safely tucking away longer hair, but it’s also made from a polyester/cotton blend for soft, easy-wear comfort. The elasticized band ensures a snug fit that prevents the hat from shifting or hair from falling down as you work. Better still, this one-size-fits-all cap can be hand-washed without fading, losing its shape, or its elasticity.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
This mesh-back, elasticized cap is the perfect option for the cook with longer hair, that doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort or design while at work.
Pros:
- Elasticized band for a snug fit
- Breathable mesh material
- Bucketed back for longer hair
- One-size-fits-all
Cons:
- Not machine washable
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 3 per pack
Material: Polyester/cotton blend
Adjustable: No
Maintenance: Hand-wash only
Sunrise Kitchen Supply Adjustable Chef’s Hat with 15-inch Pleated Topper
Best for Classic Design
Whether you’re a stay-at-home cook making grilled cheese for the kiddos, or a seasoned professional commanding an entire kitchen brigade, it’s always important to look the part. And fun too, right? Now, with this extra-tall, pleated chef’s hat, there’s no mistaking who’s in charge. Made from a durable, polyester/cotton blend, this 15-inch-tall topper not only looks impressive but features a Velcro tab along the back band for discreet adjustability and an always perfect fit. The extra-wide band of this hat makes it perfect for monograms or logos, while the hygienic white finish delivers that classic, pristine look you expect from a master of the kitchen. Whether that be restaurant, hotel, or home kitchen. Hand-wash only, air-dry, and follow with a spritz of spray starch to maintain the shape.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
This easy-care, adjustable chef’s hat is perfect for the professional chef or even the home chef who quite literally wants to “up” their presence in the kitchen.
Pros:
- Classic, upright design
- Wider band suitable for monogramming
- Adjustable Velcro strap
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- Can collapse due to height
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 1 per pack
Material: Polyester/cotton blend
Adjustable: Yes
Maintenance: Hand wash only
Sntieecr 30-Pack Kids Paper Chef’s Hats with Vented Top
Best for Cooking with Kids
What better fun for a kids’ party, than getting to dress up and participate in a group activity. And whether it’s decorating birthday cupcakes, enjoying a fun art class, or just helping set the table for a mid-day snack, kids will love to get involved when they get to don one of these professional-looking chef’s hats. Made from lightweight, disposable paper, they’re perfect for decorating prior to wear using markers, paints, or colored pencils. And because they come in a 30-pack, no worries if do-overs are required because there’s plenty to go around. With an authentic looking design, these 8-inch pleated hats are fully adjustable to fit all child age ranges and are vented on top for continually cool comfort regardless of how long they’re worn.
Who Should Buy This Chef’s Hat?
These kid-sized chef’s hats are ideal for setting the tone at children’s parties, family events, or even just a fun evening at home with the kids. They’re adjustable, vented, and may just inspire a future career choice.
Pros:
- Professional-looking finish
- Fully adjustable, self-adhesive strip
- Vented on top
- Ideal for drawing on
Cons:
- Not reusable
Specs for Comparison:
Pack: 30 per pack
Material: Paper
Adjustable: Yes
Maintenance: Disposable
Bottom Line
Today’s chef’s hats are as smart-looking as they are practical. Once designed specifically to denote rank and promote an image of impeccable hygiene, these popular toppers have long since adapted to a more modern aesthetic while still respecting their original purpose of encouraging sanitary food prep. From colorful patterns, functional styles, and adjustable tabs that offer a one-size-fits-all design, these basic uniform essentials bring a touch of sophistication to any kitchen set-up and tell your friends, family, and guests that you take gastronomic preparation, seriously.
Photo credit: Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock