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Viking PureGlide Pro Skillet Review: The New 12-inch Non-Stick Powerhouse

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/25 .. review-the-new-12-inch-non-stick-powerhouse.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, December 25th 2025 at 8:49 GMT by Food & Wine
      Locale: Utah, UNITED STATES

Viking PureGlide Pro Non‑Stick Skillet: A Complete Review of the “Best‑In‑Class” Performer

Food & Wine’s in‑depth look at Viking’s newest addition to its PureGlide Pro line offers a thorough exploration of why this skillet has become a household favorite for home cooks who value both performance and durability. From the construction and finish to everyday use and maintenance, the review paints a full picture of the pan’s strengths—and a few areas where it still falls short of perfection.

1. What Makes the PureGlide Pro Different?

Viking, a brand traditionally known for high‑end stainless‑steel cookware, has expanded into non‑stick territory with its PureGlide Pro series. The skillet under review is a 12‑inch skillet, a common size for everyday cooking, but the real differentiator lies in the proprietary coating. The article explains that the “PureGlide” coating is a multi‑layer, ceramic‑based technology that claims to be 30 % more durable than traditional PTFE coatings. Food & Wine notes that the manufacturer’s website confirms a 1‑inch thick layer of ceramic that is fused to a 2‑inch layer of advanced metal alloy. This dual‑layer design is meant to combine the slickness of a non‑stick surface with the heat distribution of a metal base.

The pan is also marketed as “free‑of‑PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium,” a selling point that aligns with contemporary health concerns. The review cites a link to Viking’s product page, where the company details the compliance with “USFDA and NSF standards.” The article also references a third‑party certification site that confirms the absence of harmful substances—adding credibility to Viking’s claims.

2. Design & Build

The skillet’s aesthetic is understated but functional. The Food & Wine review highlights the pan’s “black matte finish” on the exterior, which is paired with a polished aluminum rim for a modern look that fits in both an upscale kitchen and a casual dining space. The stainless‑steel handle, engineered for heat retention, is also the centerpiece of the design: it is a “one‑piece, brushed‑stainless‑steel” handle that remains cool to the touch when cooking, yet it is still strong enough to support a 12‑inch pan without wobbling.

One of the review’s most compelling arguments for the PureGlide Pro is its ergonomic grip. A linked video demo from the manufacturer shows the handle’s “contoured” shape designed for a natural hand position. The review praises how the handle’s weight distribution feels “balanced” when lifting the skillet, reducing the risk of accidental spills. Additionally, the skillet comes with a “soft‑grip” sleeve made from silicone that provides extra comfort for long‑term cooking sessions.

3. Performance in the Kitchen

a. Heat Distribution

The article’s cooking tests are perhaps the most valuable part of the review. Food & Wine’s chef‑tester begins by preheating the skillet over medium heat and placing a piece of dough for a quick bread test. The test demonstrates that the skillet heats evenly, with no hot spots or warping—a common complaint with cheaper non‑stick pans. The review cites a comparison link to a previous article that compared Viking’s PureGlide Pro to the Tefal FX‑Non‑Stick series, noting that the PureGlide Pro “outperformed” the competitor in terms of even heat spread.

b. Non‑Stick Performance

The reviewer uses a range of foods—from eggs and pancakes to seared salmon—to gauge how food releases from the surface. In each case, the skillet shows excellent release, with minimal sticking and no need for excessive oil. The article stresses that the non‑stick surface is “stable” even when cooking at higher temperatures, an important point for sautéing meats or stir‑fries. A link to a product forum discussion reveals that many users report “no peeling or flaking” even after months of use, confirming the durability that Viking promises.

c. Cleaning & Maintenance

One of the most common pain points with non‑stick cookware is the cleaning process. Food & Wine’s review states that the PureGlide Pro can be washed with dish soap and a non‑abrasive sponge, but the manufacturer advises against using metal scouring pads. The article links to a Viking support page that provides a step‑by‑step cleaning guide, reinforcing that a gentle approach preserves the coating’s integrity. For those who worry about dishwasher safety, the review confirms that the skillet is dishwasher‑safe, but it cautions that repeated exposure to harsh detergents may eventually degrade the non‑stick layer.

4. Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

The review uses a visual chart to compare the PureGlide Pro against other 12‑inch non‑stick options, illustrating its relative strengths in heat distribution and durability.

5. Where to Buy & Pricing

The Food & Wine article includes a direct link to Viking’s official online store and a list of major retailers such as Amazon, Williams Sonoma, and Sur La Table. The pan’s MSRP is $179.95, but the review notes that there are frequent seasonal discounts—sometimes as low as $149—especially during holiday sales or back‑to‑school promotions. A linked comparison page shows that the pan is “cost‑effective” compared to high‑end copper or cast‑iron options that might be more expensive but require more maintenance.

6. Final Verdict

Food & Wine’s comprehensive look at the Viking PureGlide Pro non‑stick skillet concludes that it is “a solid choice for serious home cooks who need a reliable pan that will stand the test of time.” While the price may be a hurdle for budget‑conscious shoppers, the combination of a durable non‑stick surface, even heat distribution, and ergonomic design delivers a cooking experience that rivals higher‑priced premium cookware.

If you’re in the market for a new skillet that balances performance and safety—especially if you’re wary of PFOA and other toxins—Viking’s PureGlide Pro offers a compelling option. For those who want the very best, a copper‑bottom or stainless‑steel skillet might still be preferable; but for the average cook looking for everyday versatility and minimal upkeep, this 12‑inch non‑stick skillet is likely to satisfy.