As a chef, wearing the right kind of chef jacket & chef pant is important to keep you cooler and ensure comfort. You must ensure that the chef jacket is of high quality so that you can make the best use of it for many years. Through this guide, you will learn everything you need to know before buying a chef jacket.
Factors you must consider before you buy a chef jacket
Although your budget will be the main factor, these are the other factors you must consider before you buy a chef jacket.
- Style
There are two styles of chef jackets available:
- Traditional style: Traditional chef coats are designed to give a formal look; it is perfect for high-end venues. However, it is also made of thicker material and is finished with French cuffs.
- Modern style: These chef jackets are meant for casual settings. They are lightweight and can be customised according to the company’s preference and your personal tastes.
Space plays a major factor in deciding the right kind of chef jacket. Ultimately, you need to be comfortable wearing it; you should be able to move around and work without the jacket slowing you down.
- Durability and functions
What type of environment will you be working in? If you are working in a colder environment, a thicker chef jacket will be suitable. If you are working in a warmer environment, choose a lighter chef jacket.
Always choose a high-quality jacket. No matter how roughly you use it, it needs to retain its colour and shape in the end.
- Fabric material
Depending on where you work, each fabric material for chef uniforms will have its advantages. Do remember that each material carries its own weight too.
- Heavy fabric material offers a premium look and is more resistant to wear and tear.
- Light fabric material is easily prone to wear and tear but is easier to wash daily.
Chefs usually prefer high-quality jackets since they provide adequate air ventilation. This is useful in non-cotton chef jackets which allows the skin to breathe freely.
- The finer details
While high-quality jackets are one aspect, the finer details that must be given attention are an entirely different ballgame. It is just as important to consider the finer details as you would the quality of the fabric. Some of the details worth considering are:
- Collar: You may choose a high-neck collar if your jacket is traditional. However, low neck collars suit modern chef jackets more and can be paired with a chef neckerchief.
- Pocket: Do you require pockets in your uniform? If you do, then consider the size as well as the placement of these pockets. Arm pockets are great for holding pens, spoons and thermometers. If you are carrying digital tech and notepads, then a wider pocket in the front will be more suitable.
5. Single or double breasted
Unless you are a conventional chef, then a single-breasted chef coat will be suitable. Since lesser fabric goes into the making, they are considerably lighter than double-breasted chef jackets. However, double-breasted jackets offer the wearer more protection against hot spills and burns. In comparison, a single-breasted chef jacket might not be able to.
6. Length of the sleeves
- Long sleeves: Offer protection from hot spills and burns. Can be rolled up.
- Short sleeves: Keeps you cool in hot kitchen environments. Does not offer much protection.
Is the traditional or modern style better?
The traditional chef dress undoubtedly looks very elegant and formal as they are created using thick fabrics that are durable and crisp. In comparison, modern chef jackets are more comfortable and look more casual as they resemble casual shirts. Whether you choose a traditional or modern chef jacket will depend on these factors:
- Location of the job and the interior settings: For venues where style is as important as performance, modern chef jackets are more suitable. However, if you are working in an indoor environment, then traditional chef jackets are best as they provide maximum comfort and performance.
- Personal comfort and protection: Both chef jacket styles offer varying amounts of comfort and protection against external elements in the kitchen.
What materials are chef’s jackets made of?
It is essential to choose a material that is not only long-lasting but one which also offers the wearer maximum comfort while they are working. Chef jackets are available in these materials today:
- 100% cotton: Cotton is the most durable fabric material, especially in the long term. Since it is made of plant material, it offers the wearer excellent breathability which is essential in hot working conditions.
- Polycotton: Polycotton is a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton. Being a versatile material, it is used in the creation of most chef jackets. Since the majority of the jacket is polyester, the jacket dries quickly and is free of wrinkles. Hence, it is also easy to care for.
- Polyester: Polyester chef jackets are light weighted, easy to wash and dry quickly. Businesses looking to save money usually invest in polyester jackets as it costs less. However, they are more prone to damage over time.
- 100% cotton denim: Not only are denim jackets thick, but they are also stylish and offer the wearer the ultimate protection against spills and accidents in the kitchen. However, they are known to become stiff over time and, hence, must be treated with an enzyme wash to enhance elasticity.
Other finer details you must pay attention to before you buy a chef jacket
These are some of the finer details you must pay attention to before you buy a chef jacket:
- Single or double stitch: In comparison to single stitch jackets, double stitch chef jackets fare better as they are more durable to wear and tear.
- Collarless/high collar chef jacket: While collarless chef jackets are now trending, high collar chef jackets are still relevant. This is because they protect the wearer from accidental burns around the neck region. These chef jackets may also be paired with a chef neckerchief to absorb sweat and deflect burning material.
- Shoulder drop: Every chef jacket has a particular cut that makes all the difference in how your movements are affected in the kitchen. Not only is the shoulder drop cut stylish, but it also enables flexibility. This gives the chef the freedom to make rapid hand movements during peak hours in the kitchen.
- Weight of the fabric: The fabric’s weight contributes to the worn feel, appearance, durability and how long it lasts.
- Pockets: Pockets offer storage space to the chef hustling in the kitchen. It allows their hands to be free as they can easily store small utensils and stationery in their pockets.
Conclusion
This guide will help you understand all the vital information about chef jackets workwear. When you have decided about the type of chef jacket that is best for you, do contact us and we shall assist you.
