Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The heavy duty apron from Helt that you didn’t know you needed

We love this high-quality chef's apron

Burgundy Red Apron by Helt Studio Claudia Savin

When you think of the word “apron,” you probably think “mom,” followed quickly by “frilly.” Let us show you how misguided this is and re-introduce you to the simple, timeless, and effectively made kitchen accessory you should never be without. Helt Studio, an up-and-coming chef’s apparel company based out of Los Angeles, is devoted to creating high-quality, efficient, and safe workwear that can handle the rigors of any kitchen, art studio, or garden. Their take on the humble apron (and they have several, depending on your needs and personal style) will show you that it’s time to kiss the novelty “Quit Grillin’ Me!” apron goodbye and say hello to Helt.

Why you need a Helt apron

Safety

It turns out the village blacksmith, baker, and candlestick maker all had the right idea when they donned protective clothing for work. Cooking, baking, barbecuing, and tending bar is messy work, with much splattering, splashing, and potential for burns. Helt aprons are thick, protective, and some are even water-repellent. They’re also well-suited to messy work such as pottery, painting, gardening, and flower arranging. Protecting your skin is just smart; protecting your clothes means they last longer, saving you money and trouble.

Recommended Videos

Durability

Everyone knows professional kitchen tools and workwear are a cut above what the rest of us mere mortals typically buy. We’re used to whisks that need replacing and measuring cups with numbers that always seem to be wearing off. Consider Helt Studio an invitation to the big leagues. Each apron is designed with loving and thoughtful care and is ethically made in Los Angeles, California. The Burgundy Red apron is made of Japanese canvas and is said to “age like a fine wine,” conforming to your body with time and repeated use. Aprons at Helt range from $65 to $85, most hovering at the $75 mark. This could be considered pricey, but there’s no substitute for quality and ethical sourcing. With proper care (an occasional wash in cold water, and they do mean cold), your apron will serve you loyally and well for years to come.

Helt Studios

Briquette Bib apron by Helt Studio

Pockets

You may laugh, but there’s nothing worse than running around looking for lost items, nor anything better than having them on hand. As you can see, the Helt Studio apron comes equipped with various deep, handy pockets to hold everything from your phone to a pen to a candy thermometer. The Burgundy Red apron we tried out has an inner pocket nestled in a larger one, should you want to separate two items. Helt also offers personalized embroidery, making a stylish apron even more giftable. May we suggest “#1 POCKET FAN”?

The tag inside Helt Apron Claudia Savin

The bottom line

Once you’ve embraced #ApronLife, there will be no going back. When you’ve securely placed the 100% cotton strap around your neck and tied your apron, you and everyone in your household (and the delivery driver, the neighbor, and his dog) will know you mean business. Perhaps your business will be cooking one day and preparing for a garage deep-clean the next. Whatever you tackle, Helt Studio is there to help you do it stylishly and safely.

Claudia Savin
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Claudia is a fragrance enthusiast based in the Pacific Northwest. She has a passion for exploring unexpected and overlooked…
What’s an aperitif? Everything you need to know about these refreshing drinks
Aperitif 101: Guide on pre-meal beverages
Negroni

 

The appetizer of the drink world, an aperitif, is a fun toast and a preface to a meal ahead, all at once. Based on the Latin word, which translates to "open," these beverages are believed to loosen up the stomach and prepare the body for a meal. And because these elixirs date back to ancient Roman times, it's hard to argue with the history at play.

Read more
What is mezcal? Everything you need to know about the popular agave spirit
Mezcal 101
A laborer carries a harvested agave piña through an agave field.

 

With all the buzz around popular agave spirits these days, it pays to know a thing or two about the surging category. The last thing you want to do is sell yourself shot at the bar or bottle shop, landing on something that doesn't agree with your palate. With mezcal, one could spend an entire lifetime learning about the stuff, but let's start with the essentials.

Read more
French cuisine guide: Everything you need to know
French food is popular all over the world, let us guide you through the world of French cuisine
Rustic style dinner with cheese platter

 

France is the pinnacle of culinary romance and gastronomical luxury, renowned for its sophistication and simplicity. From the haute cuisine of Paris to the fruits de mer from the Mediterranean Sea, the effortless elegance of French cuisine comes from a few essential ingredients and time-honored techniques that have influenced most of the culinary styles we use today.

Read more