Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly Review: Premium Multi-Layer Cookware

Name: Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly Cookware
Brand: Kuhn Rikon

Andrew Bluett-Duncan
Director

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Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly Review: Premium Multi-Layer Cookware Tested

12 minute read | Last updated: November 2025

TL;DR: Should You Buy Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly?

After six weeks of testing, the Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly delivers performance equal to Le Creuset 3Ply at a lower price point. The 3.2mm five-layer construction (including copper-enhanced aluminium core) achieves excellent heat distribution, whilst the rivet-free interior makes cleaning significantly easier. The 24cm uncoated frying pan fried eggs with minimal sticking on induction. Best suited for cooks who value professional performance, aesthetic design, and substantial build quality without the premium brand markup.

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Why We're Reviewing Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly

The Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly represents something increasingly rare in cookware: genuine innovation in construction without marketing hyperbole. After years of requests from Kam Loqueman (Kuhn Rikon's sales agent), the addition of uncoated stainless steel frying pans to the range made it impossible to ignore.

Our relationship with Kuhn Rikon spans multiple generations, from John Margetts (now retired) through to his son Edward Margetts (current MD) and Paul Marchant. This long-standing connection provides valuable context. The cookware trade operates on relationships built over decades, and these connections offer insight into a manufacturer's consistency and values.

The Culinary FivePly challenges assumptions about multi-layer cookware. Most premium ranges use three-layer construction. Kuhn Rikon employs five layers with an unusual material choice: two different aluminium alloys, one containing copper and iron. This review examines whether this engineering delivers measurable benefits or simply adds unnecessary complexity.

What You'll Learn:

How the five-layer construction actually works and why copper matters
Real-world performance data from six weeks of daily testing
Direct comparison to Le Creuset 3Ply in heat distribution and value
Whether the rivet-free design genuinely improves cleaning
Who should buy this range and who should look elsewhere

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Overall Thickness	3.2mm (total construction)
Layer Count	5 layers (stainless-aluminium-aluminium-aluminium-stainless)
Outer Stainless Steel	0.6mm (magnetic layer for induction compatibility)
Inner Stainless Steel	0.4mm (cooking surface)
Aluminium Core	2.2mm total (three separate aluminium layers)
Centre Layer Material	Aluminium 3003 alloy (0.05-2.0% copper, 0.7% iron)
Hob Compatibility	All hobs including induction, gas, electric, Aga, solid fuel
Oven Safe Temperature	Up to 240°C (handle may heat)
Handle Design	"Stay Cool" handles, remain cool during stovetop cooking
Rim Construction	Closed rim (no exposed aluminium, dishwasher safe)
Interior Design	Rivet-free (no protruding fasteners)
Surface Options	Uncoated stainless steel and non-stick coated versions
Available Sizes	Wide range, expanding throughout 2025

How the Five-Layer Technology Works

The Culinary FivePly's name directly describes its construction: five distinct metal layers bonded together. This differs from the more common three-layer (tri-ply) construction found in ranges like Le Creuset 3Ply or All-Clad D3.

Understanding the Layer Sandwich

The five layers stack as follows, working from outside to inside:

Layer 1 (Exterior): Stainless Steel 18/10 - 0.6mm

The outer stainless steel serves multiple purposes. At 0.6mm, it's thicker than the interior layer, likely to provide sufficient mass for magnetic induction compatibility. This layer also provides the welding surface for handle attachment. The additional thickness compared to the interior (0.4mm) suggests engineering specifically for induction hob requirements.

Layer 2: Aluminium 1050 - 0.7mm

Aluminium 1050 represents nearly pure aluminium, likely recycled material. This layer begins the heat conduction process, transferring energy from the magnetic outer layer into the core. Pure aluminium conducts heat efficiently but lacks structural stability on its own.

Layer 3 (Core): Aluminium 3003 - 0.8mm

The centre layer uses Aluminium 3003, an unusual choice containing 0.05-2.0% copper and 0.7% iron. The copper enhances heat distribution, helping energy spread laterally across the pan base and up the sides. The iron content provides structural stability, though this seems redundant given the stainless steel outer layers. This 0.8mm layer represents the thickest aluminium component.

Layer 4: Aluminium 1050 - 0.7mm

A second pure aluminium layer mirrors layer 2, completing the conductive sandwich. This symmetry ensures even heat distribution working both inward and outward from the copper-enhanced core.

Layer 5 (Interior): Stainless Steel 18/10 - 0.4mm

The cooking surface uses thinner stainless steel at 0.4mm. This provides durability, corrosion resistance, and a non-reactive cooking surface whilst allowing efficient heat transfer from the aluminium layers below. The thinner gauge here maximises responsiveness to temperature changes.

Why Copper Matters (Even in Small Amounts)

The inclusion of copper in the centre aluminium layer initially surprised us. Copper content of 0.05-2.0% seems minimal compared to pure copper cookware. However, copper's thermal conductivity (roughly 60% higher than aluminium) means even small percentages improve lateral heat spread.

In practical terms, this matters most for larger frying pans. A 28cm or 32cm frying pan on a standard burner concentrates heat in the centre. The copper-enhanced core helps redistribute this energy toward the pan edges, reducing hot spots and improving cooking evenness. For saucepans, this prevents burning at the base when cooking sauces or risotto.

Engineering Note: The iron content (0.7%) in the Aluminium 3003 alloy remains puzzling given the stainless steel outer layers already provide structural stability. Our hypothesis is that this aids in the bonding process during manufacturing, helping the five layers fuse together under high pressure and temperature. Kuhn Rikon has not publicly detailed this aspect of their construction.

Rivet-Free Interior Design

The Culinary FivePly uses a rivet-free interior, meaning no protruding fasteners interrupt the cooking surface. Traditional cookware attaches handles using rivets that penetrate through to the interior, creating small raised points where food residue accumulates.

Kuhn Rikon achieves handle attachment through external welding to the 0.6mm outer stainless steel layer. This provides secure connection whilst maintaining a completely smooth interior surface. The practical benefit is straightforward: cleaning requires less effort, particularly when cooking sticky or caramelised foods.

Real-World Performance Testing

We tested the 24cm uncoated stainless steel frying pan over six weeks of regular use. Testing included frying eggs, searing steaks, cooking vegetables, and preparing pan sauces. All testing used an induction hob.

Heat Distribution and Evenness

The Culinary FivePly demonstrates excellent heat distribution across the cooking surface. When frying eggs on medium-high heat, the whites cooked evenly without the centre setting significantly faster than the edges. This indicates effective lateral heat spread, confirming the copper-enhanced core delivers measurable benefits.

For comparison, standard single-layer stainless steel pans show a distinct hot spot in the centre, with slower cooking toward the rim. The FivePly eliminates this disparity almost entirely.

Egg Frying Test (Critical Benchmark)

Frying eggs in uncoated stainless steel provides the most demanding test of surface performance. Eggs stick readily to stainless steel when technique or temperature falters.

Our testing protocol: heat pan until oil shimmers (not smoking), add eggs, cook on medium-high until desired doneness. Results consistently showed minimal sticking, with eggs releasing cleanly using a thin spatula. This matches or exceeds performance of our favourite Netherton Foundry pans.

Expert Technique: Never heat oil to smoking point. Smoking oil indicates temperatures above 190°C, which creates potentially carcinogenic compounds and guarantees burnt food. For eggs, oil should shimmer and flow easily but produce no smoke. This typically occurs around 160-180°C, the ideal range for gentle frying with minimal sticking.

Temperature Responsiveness

The 3.2mm construction provides good thermal mass whilst maintaining reasonable responsiveness. When reducing heat, the pan temperature drops noticeably within 30-45 seconds. This falls between lightweight single-layer pans (very responsive, poor heat retention) and heavy cast iron (excellent retention, slow to respond).

For most home cooking, this balance works well. The pan holds enough heat for good searing but adjusts quickly enough for temperature-sensitive tasks like pan sauces.

Handle Comfort and Heat Management

The "Stay Cool" handles genuinely remain cool during stovetop cooking. After 20 minutes of continuous use on medium-high heat, handles stayed comfortable to touch without protection. This contrasts with many stainless steel pans where handles become uncomfortably warm within 10 minutes.

In oven use at 240°C, handles do heat significantly. Always use oven gloves when removing pans from the oven, regardless of manufacturer claims.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The rivet-free interior delivers on its promise. Cleaning takes noticeably less effort compared to traditional riveted pans. Food residue doesn't accumulate around protruding fasteners, and the smooth surface wipes clean more readily.

For stuck-on food, Bar Keeper's Friend (oxalic acid-based cleaner) removes discolouration and residue effectively. The closed rim prevents moisture or detergent from penetrating between layers, eliminating corrosion risk.

Despite being dishwasher safe, hand washing preserves the exterior finish better over time. The smooth interior makes hand washing quick enough that dishwasher use offers minimal time savings.

Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly vs Le Creuset 3Ply

Le Creuset's 3Ply range represents the most direct competitor in terms of construction, performance expectations, and market positioning. Both use stainless steel exteriors with aluminium cores for heat distribution.

Feature	Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly	Le Creuset 3Ply
Layer Count	5 layers (3 aluminium, 2 stainless)	3 layers (1 aluminium, 2 stainless)
Total Thickness	3.2mm	2.6mm
Aluminium Core	2.2mm (includes copper-enhanced alloy)	Approximately 1.8mm (standard aluminium)
Heat Distribution	Excellent (copper-enhanced core)	Excellent (proven performance)
Interior Design	Rivet-free (smooth surface)	Traditional rivets (protruding fasteners)
Handle Design	Stay Cool handles, genuinely effective	Cast stainless handles, heat moderately
Weight	Substantial heft (0.6mm thicker)	Medium weight
Aesthetic Design	Clean-lined, contemporary appearance	Classic French design
Price Point	Significantly lower	Premium pricing
Brand Recognition	Well-known in Europe, less so UK	Prestigious brand, high recognition

Performance Comparison

In direct cooking tests, the Culinary FivePly matches Le Creuset 3Ply performance in heat distribution and evenness. The additional 0.6mm thickness and copper-enhanced core deliver no measurable disadvantage compared to Le Creuset's simpler three-layer construction.

The rivet-free interior provides a genuine usability advantage for cleaning. Whether this matters depends on individual priorities. Some cooks never find rivets problematic, whilst others consistently battle food buildup around fasteners.

Value Proposition

The Culinary FivePly costs significantly less than equivalent Le Creuset 3Ply pieces whilst delivering comparable performance. For budget-conscious cooks seeking professional-grade cookware, this represents excellent value.

Le Creuset commands premium pricing partly through brand prestige and partly through established reputation. If brand recognition matters, Le Creuset justifies its premium. For performance-focused buyers, Kuhn Rikon delivers equivalent results at lower cost.

Aesthetic Considerations

The Culinary FivePly features cleaner, more contemporary lines compared to Le Creuset's classic French aesthetic. This becomes subjective preference. We find the Kuhn Rikon design slightly more attractive, with better visual balance between body and handles. Others may prefer Le Creuset's traditional appearance.

The substantial weight and visible build quality of the FivePly convey durability immediately. You can feel and see the engineering before cooking a single meal.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

Excellent heat distribution: Copper-enhanced aluminium core spreads heat evenly across cooking surface, eliminating hot spots
Rivet-free interior: Smooth cooking surface significantly easier to clean, no food buildup around fasteners
Stay Cool handles: Genuinely effective during stovetop cooking, remain comfortable without protection
Substantial construction: 3.2mm thickness provides professional-grade feel and durability
Closed rim design: No exposed aluminium, prevents corrosion, truly dishwasher safe
Universal compatibility: Works on all hob types including induction, gas, electric, Aga, solid fuel
Superior value: Performance equal to Le Creuset 3Ply at significantly lower price point
Clean aesthetic: Contemporary design with excellent visual balance
Non-stick option available: Coated versions for those wanting easier maintenance
Wide size range: Expanding selection through 2025

Limitations

Learning curve for uncoated: Stainless steel requires proper preheating and fat management to prevent sticking
Handles heat in oven: Despite "Stay Cool" design, handles become hot at oven temperatures above 200°C
Heavier than three-layer: Additional thickness adds weight, may fatigue some users during extended cooking
Less brand prestige: Kuhn Rikon lacks the name recognition of Le Creuset or All-Clad in UK market
Limited colour options: Stainless steel only, no coloured exteriors like enamelled ranges
Price higher than budget options: Costs more than single-layer stainless or aluminium non-stick pans

Who Should Buy Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly

Ideal Buyers

Performance-focused home cooks: If you prioritise cooking results over brand names, the FivePly delivers professional-grade performance without the premium pricing. The even heat distribution and temperature control support advanced techniques.

Value-conscious buyers seeking premium quality: The combination of five-layer construction, copper-enhanced core, and rivet-free design at mid-range pricing represents excellent value. You receive features typically found only in more expensive ranges.

Induction hob users: The 0.6mm magnetic outer layer provides robust induction compatibility. Heat responsiveness on induction matches or exceeds many dedicated induction ranges.

Cooks who appreciate substantial cookware: The 3.2mm thickness and visible quality appeal to those who value heft and durability. This is cookware that feels professional immediately.

Anyone frustrated with riveted pan cleaning: If you consistently battle food buildup around traditional rivets, the smooth rivet-free interior eliminates this maintenance frustration entirely.

Consider Alternatives If

You prefer non-stick convenience: Whilst Kuhn Rikon offers coated versions, if you want hassle-free cooking with minimal technique, dedicated non-stick pans require less learning. The uncoated stainless steel demands proper preheating and fat management.

Brand prestige matters significantly: Le Creuset, All-Clad, or Mauviel carry greater name recognition in the UK. If brand status influences your satisfaction, established names may suit better despite higher costs.

You want the lightest possible cookware: The substantial 3.2mm construction adds weight. Cooks with wrist or arm limitations might prefer thinner, lighter alternatives.

Budget constraints are severe: Quality single-layer stainless steel or aluminium non-stick pans cost significantly less. The FivePly represents investment in long-term performance rather than bargain pricing.

You cook exclusively on gas: Gas hobs work fine with FivePly, but the induction-specific engineering provides no benefit. Simple three-layer construction may suffice for gas-only cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does five-layer construction differ from three-layer cookware?

Five-layer construction uses three separate aluminium layers sandwiched between two stainless steel layers, compared to three-layer (tri-ply) cookware which uses a single aluminium core between two stainless layers. The Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly's centre aluminium layer contains copper and iron, enhancing heat distribution. In practical terms, both constructions can achieve excellent heat distribution. The FivePly's additional layers and copper content provide marginal improvements in lateral heat spread, most noticeable in larger frying pans (28cm and above). The thicker 3.2mm construction also adds thermal mass for better heat retention compared to typical 2.6mm three-layer pans.

Does the copper content actually make a difference?

Yes, though the effect is subtle rather than dramatic. Copper's thermal conductivity exceeds aluminium by roughly 60%, so even the small amount (0.05-2.0%) in the Aluminium 3003 alloy improves lateral heat distribution. This becomes most apparent when cooking in larger pans or using burners smaller than the pan base. The copper helps redistribute concentrated heat toward the pan edges, reducing hot spots. For everyday cooking, this translates to more even browning when searing proteins and less risk of burning when cooking sauces. However, the difference compared to quality three-layer cookware without copper is measurable but not transformative.

Is the rivet-free interior genuinely easier to clean?

Yes, noticeably so. Traditional rivets create small raised points where food residue accumulates, particularly when cooking sticky or caramelised foods. These areas require extra scrubbing attention. The completely smooth rivet-free interior wipes clean more readily, eliminating frustrating buildup spots. For cooking tasks that produce minimal residue (steaming vegetables, boiling water), rivets rarely cause problems. For high-heat searing, pan sauces, or sticky reductions, the smooth interior saves genuine cleaning effort. Whether this matters depends on your cooking style and tolerance for extra scrubbing.

Can I use metal utensils with uncoated stainless steel?

Yes, without restriction. Stainless steel cooking surfaces tolerate metal utensils including sharp-edged spatulas, whisks, and spoons. Whilst metal utensils may create light scratching over time, this doesn't affect performance or durability. Many professional chefs prefer stainless steel precisely because it permits aggressive scraping and deglasing. For best results, use thin metal spatulas that can slide easily under food. Avoid using excessive force that might dent or warp the pan base, but normal cooking pressure causes no concern.

How do I prevent food from sticking to uncoated stainless steel?

Proper preheating and sufficient fat are essential. Heat the empty pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until hot. Test readiness by adding a water droplet. If it forms a rolling ball that glides across the surface (Leidenfrost effect), the pan is ready. Add oil or butter and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking (roughly 160-180°C). Add food and resist the urge to move it immediately. Proteins will stick initially then release naturally when properly seared. Attempting to flip too early guarantees sticking. This technique works reliably once mastered, but requires patience during the learning period.

Do the handles really stay cool during cooking?

Yes, during stovetop cooking. After 20 minutes of continuous use on medium-high heat, the handles remain comfortable to touch without protection. This contrasts with many stainless steel pans where handles become uncomfortably warm within 10 minutes. However, in oven use above 200°C, handles heat significantly and require oven gloves. The "Stay Cool" claim applies specifically to stovetop cooking, not oven use. The handle design and attachment method effectively isolate the handle from pan body heat during normal cooking.

Is Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly worth the price compared to Le Creuset 3Ply?

From a pure performance perspective, yes. The Culinary FivePly matches Le Creuset 3Ply in heat distribution, temperature control, and cooking results whilst costing significantly less. The rivet-free interior provides a cleaning advantage. The additional 0.6mm thickness adds substance without compromising responsiveness. Le Creuset commands premium pricing partly through brand prestige and established reputation. If brand recognition matters to you, Le Creuset may justify its premium. For performance-focused buyers, Kuhn Rikon delivers equivalent results at better value. Consider whether you value the Le Creuset name enough to pay the price difference.

Can I use Culinary FivePly on my induction hob?

Yes, fully compatible. The 0.6mm magnetic stainless steel outer layer provides robust induction performance. In testing on an induction hob, heat responsiveness and control matched or exceeded many dedicated induction ranges. The thicker outer layer compared to the interior (0.6mm vs 0.4mm) appears specifically engineered for induction compatibility. The pan heats quickly and distributes energy evenly across the base. All pieces in the Culinary FivePly range work on induction without limitation.

How does FivePly compare to cast iron for heat retention?

Cast iron retains heat significantly better due to greater thermal mass. A typical cast iron frying pan weighs 2-3 times more than equivalent stainless multi-layer pans. This superior heat retention makes cast iron ideal for tasks requiring sustained high heat (blackened dishes, thick steaks). However, cast iron responds slowly to temperature changes. The FivePly's 3.2mm construction provides moderate heat retention, better than thin single-layer pans but less than cast iron. This creates useful versatility: enough retention for good searing, enough responsiveness for temperature-sensitive sauces. Choose cast iron for pure heat retention, FivePly for balanced performance.

Should I choose the coated or uncoated version?

This depends on your cooking priorities. Uncoated stainless steel requires proper technique (preheating, sufficient fat) but tolerates high heat, metal utensils, and aggressive cleaning. It develops fond (browned bits) essential for pan sauces and provides superior browning for proteins. Coated non-stick versions offer easier food release and simpler cleanup but restrict maximum temperature (typically 260°C), require gentle utensils, and don't develop fond. Choose uncoated for maximum versatility and professional techniques. Choose coated for convenience, particularly for eggs, delicate fish, or if you want hassle-free cooking with minimal learning curve.

How do I remove stuck-on food or discolouration?

For stuck-on food, create a paste using Bar Keeper's Friend (oxalic acid-based cleaner) and water. Apply to affected areas, let sit for 2-3 minutes, then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge. For stubborn residue, add water to the pan, bring to a simmer, then scrape gently with a wooden spatula. The heat loosens bonds between food and surface. For rainbow discolouration (heat tint), Bar Keeper's Friend removes this effectively. For light everyday cleaning, hot water and washing-up liquid suffice. The smooth rivet-free interior makes all cleaning methods more effective by eliminating crevices where residue accumulates.

Is FivePly suitable for professional kitchens?

Yes, the construction and performance meet professional standards. The 3.2mm thickness, copper-enhanced core, and rivet-free interior provide features appreciated in commercial settings. The durability tolerates high-volume cooking. However, professional kitchens often favour lighter pans for ergonomic reasons during extended service periods. The substantial weight might fatigue cooks during 8-12 hour shifts. For home cooks or smaller professional operations, the FivePly delivers professional-grade performance. High-volume restaurants might prefer lighter three-layer construction for repeated handling comfort.

How long will Culinary FivePly cookware last?

With proper care, decades. Stainless steel and aluminium construction doesn't degrade like non-stick coatings or reactive metals. The bonded layers won't separate under normal use. The closed rim prevents moisture penetration. Primary failure modes would be warping from thermal shock (extreme temperature changes) or damage from drops. Avoid temperature extremes: don't plunge hot pans into cold water, don't heat empty pans excessively, don't use maximum heat settings. With reasonable care, the cookware will outlast most kitchen equipment. The investment cost amortises over many years of reliable service.

Can I put FivePly in the dishwasher?

Yes, the closed rim design makes the FivePly genuinely dishwasher safe. No exposed aluminium means no corrosion risk from dishwasher detergents. However, hand washing preserves the exterior finish better over time. Dishwasher detergents and high heat can dull the stainless steel appearance gradually. The smooth rivet-free interior makes hand washing quick enough that dishwasher use offers minimal time savings. For maintaining optimal appearance, hand wash. For maximum convenience, dishwasher use won't damage functionality but may affect aesthetics over years of regular dishwashing.

Where is Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly manufactured?

Kuhn Rikon is a Swiss company with manufacturing operations across Europe. Specific production locations for the Culinary FivePly range aren't publicly detailed by the company. Swiss engineering standards generally emphasise precision and quality control. The substantial construction, precise layer bonding, and attention to design details suggest careful manufacturing processes. If specific country of origin matters for your purchasing decision, contact Kuhn Rikon directly or ask your retailer for production location details.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly?

The Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly delivers professional-grade performance at mid-range pricing, making it an excellent choice for serious home cooks who prioritise results over brand prestige. After six weeks of testing, the cookware matches or exceeds Le Creuset 3Ply performance in every meaningful category whilst costing significantly less.

The five-layer construction with copper-enhanced aluminium core provides genuinely excellent heat distribution. The rivet-free interior makes cleaning noticeably easier. The substantial 3.2mm thickness conveys durability and quality you can feel immediately. The clean contemporary aesthetic surpasses many competitors in visual appeal.

The learning curve for uncoated stainless steel represents the primary barrier. If you're willing to master proper preheating and fat management, the FivePly rewards you with superior browning, professional versatility, and decades of reliable service. If you want hassle-free convenience with minimal technique, consider the coated versions or different cookware entirely.

For performance-focused buyers seeking the best value in premium multi-layer cookware, the Culinary FivePly represents one of the strongest options available in 2025. Recommended without reservation for cooks who value substance over marketing.

Why Trust Our Review

Art of Living Cookshop has specialised in premium cookware since 1972, giving us over 50 years of experience evaluating cooking equipment. Our relationship with Kuhn Rikon spans multiple generations of management, providing deep insight into their manufacturing consistency and values.

This review reflects six weeks of daily testing using the 24cm uncoated frying pan on an induction hob. All testing occurred in our own kitchens using real cooking tasks, not controlled laboratory conditions. We receive no compensation from Kuhn Rikon for this review. Our recommendations reflect genuine assessment of performance, value, and suitability for different cook profiles.

We stock both Kuhn Rikon Culinary FivePly and competing ranges including Le Creuset 3Ply, allowing direct comparison. Our assessment considers performance, price, durability, and value rather than single-brand loyalty.

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