The 5 Best Aprons for Men

Anyone who chops, welds, paints, plants, or grills with purpose needs a well-made apron. Men who want something durable, good-looking, and sustainable have options at the Portland Apron Company.

Here, you'll find aprons for men cut from organic linen, stitched with care, and ready to last longer than your latest hobby phase (no judgment). If you’ve been hunting for the best apron for men—something that respects both your craft and the planet—this list is for you.

Table of Contents

• The Best Aprons for Men
• How to Choose the Best Apron for You
• What Makes Portland Apron Co. Different
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Aprons for Men from Portland Apron Co.

If you’re in the market for the best aprons for men, you’re not here for gimmicky, novelty prints. You want something that works hard, wears well, and maybe—just maybe—makes you feel like a boss in the kitchen, studio, or shed. 

At Portland Apron Co., we're ready to make that dream come true. Here’s a rundown of our top five contenders for practical, handsome men's aprons.

1. The French Apron

If sharp and simple is your thing, meet the French Apron. This full-coverage option brings clean lines and a classic silhouette to the table. It features an adjustable neck strap, roomy front pockets, and a design that feels as at home in a rustic kitchen as it does in a modern café.

Made from durable, organic linen, it’s breathable yet protective enough for days spent cooking, bartending, or painting. Two roomy front pockets even give you space to stash your essentials—utensils, a phone, a folded kitchen towel, etc. It’s an excellent all-around apron for men who want a dependable, easygoing option.

2. The Split-Leg Apron

Freedom of movement, now in linen.

If your work involves a lot of bending, stretching, or squatting (hello, ceramicists and gardeners), the Split Leg Apron has your back—and your knees. The split-front design opens at the knee, giving your legs the freedom they need without sacrificing any precious coverage. 

Not to mention, its cross-back straps keep weight off your neck for those extended days full of creative inspiration, and the long linen fibers resist wear, even after daily use. This is the best apron for men who need flexibility without sacrificing form. Bonus: It looks great covered in clay.

3. The Grilling Apron

Stitched for smoke, sizzle, and sauce.

Spatula in one hand, beverage in the other—you're nearly ready. Now you just need an apron that can take all the heat. The Grilling Apron is for backyard legends, with thick linen to handle grease, sauce, and whatever else ends up airborne. 

Does it have plenty of pocket space? Naturally. How about a rugged feel that still reads “I care about the planet”? Absolutely. If you're on the hunt for cooking aprons for men that don’t look like they came free with the grill set, this one’s for you.

4. The Smock Apron

No neck ties. Maximum chill.

When long days and messy hands are part of the job, the Smock Apron steps up. The cross-back design skips the neck strap entirely (goodbye, neck strain) and slips on like your favorite hoodie.

With deep pockets and a relaxed, tunic-style fit, it’s ideal for men who want something that works hard without feeling restrictive. It’s ideal for artists, bakers, or anyone who ends up wearing more flour than they use. Plus, the fit is easygoing without looking sloppy. Casual, but in a “clean design” kind of way.

5. The Gathering Apron

Not just for flowers. But also… definitely for flowers.

Yes, it’s called a gathering apron—but don’t let the name fool you. This waist-level beauty is as handy in the kitchen as it is in the garden. With oversized, scoop-style pockets and a clean, flat waistband, it’s perfect for organizing tools, stashing your phone, or even carrying eggs from the coop (if that’s your vibe).

It’s also a great choice if you want coverage without the commitment of a full apron for those light-duty tasks and shorter shifts. If you don't need all the bells and whistles, the Gathering Apron might just be the best pick out of the bunch.

How to Choose the Best Apron for You

Choosing the best apron isn’t about finding the fanciest fabrics or the apron with the most pockets (though, hey, we do love a good pocket). It’s about matching form to function—finding the one that fits your work style, your personal style, and your actual life.

Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right one:

• Do you need full coverage? Go for the French Apron or Smock Apron if you’re working with splashes, splatters, or sparks. Great for cooking, painting, and anything where your clothes might need a shield.
• Want room to move? The Split Leg Apron is your friend. Potters, grillers, and anyone doing serious crouching or lifting will appreciate the freedom.
• Looking for something light and minimal? The Gathering Apron offers waist-level utility without the bulk. Ideal for light gardening, craft work, or quick kitchen prep.
• Long days on your feet? The Smock Apron skips the neck strap and distributes weight comfortably across your shoulders—your spine will thank you.
• Need pockets for tools (or snacks)? Most of our men’s aprons include deep, thoughtfully placed pockets designed to hold what you need without getting in your way.

Bottom line: The best apron for men is the one that fits your work. Whether you’re flipping omelets or re-potting succulents, we’ve got you (literally) covered.

What Makes Portland Apron Co. Different

There are aprons, and then there are Portland Apron Co. aprons. The difference? It’s in the details—and the values behind them. Each of our aprons is designed, cut, and sewn by hand in our small studio using organic, USA-sourced linen.

We’re a small but mighty operation, and we like it that way. It allows us to control every part of the process, from sourcing low-impact materials to minimizing waste in our cutting patterns. We donate and recycle all our scraps. Our excess inventory? Doesn’t exist. We make only what’s needed, and we make it to last. Whether you're shopping for your first cooking apron for men or upgrading from that old polyester number that’s seen better days, we want you to feel good about where your apron comes from.

Frequently Asked Questions: Our Men's Aprons

If you'd like to learn more about our men's aprons, check out the answers to our most frequently asked questions below!

How should an apron fit?

An apron should feel comfortable and secure without limiting your movement. Look for styles that tie at the waist or offer a cross-back design for all-day wear without neck strain. It should cover the areas that get the messiest while giving you room to breathe—and bend. 

Are there aprons designed for outdoor use?

Yes! Our grilling apron and split-leg apron are great options for outdoor cooking, gardening, or workshop projects. They’re made from durable linen that holds up to dirt, flames, and unpredictable weather while still looking sharp.

How do I clean and care for my apron?

Linen aprons are easy to care for—just machine wash on cold and tumble dry low or hang to air-dry. They’ll soften beautifully over time and wear in, not out. No need to baby them; they’re built for real life.

Related Articles: Full Aprons for Sale

Learn more about full aprons and other styles with these helpful articles.

The Best Aprons for Women

How To Tie a Cross-Back Apron

Choosing the Best Kid's Apron