Here’s How to Submit to BA’s Gear of the Year for 2026

Bon Appétit announced on January 15, 2024, the opening of submissions for its highly anticipated 2026 Gear of the Year awards, a program that celebrates the most innovative and impactful kitchen products. This annual recognition highlights both groundbreaking new releases and enduring, high-quality items that have stood the test of time, aiming to guide consumers toward the best tools for their culinary endeavors. The submission window will remain open until March 15, 2024, providing manufacturers and brands ample opportunity to present their offerings for consideration.

The Gear of the Year awards are a significant event in the culinary world, influencing purchasing decisions for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Bon Appétit's editorial team rigorously tests and evaluates each submission, focusing on factors such as performance, durability, design, innovation, and value. Products that receive a "Gear of the Year" designation are not only lauded for their excellence but also gain substantial visibility and credibility within the market. This year's program seeks to identify products that will define the modern kitchen, whether through cutting-edge technology or timeless craftsmanship.

Past winners have ranged from high-performance blenders and precision cookware to smart kitchen appliances and sustainable kitchenware. The selection process is known for its thoroughness, often involving extensive real-world testing in Bon Appétit's test kitchens. The magazine emphasizes that submissions should represent products that were either launched or significantly updated in the past year, or those that have consistently proven their worth over extended periods. This dual focus ensures a comprehensive review of the kitchen product landscape, acknowledging both the novel and the perennial.

Brands and manufacturers interested in participating can find detailed submission guidelines and entry forms on the Bon Appétit website. The awards ceremony and full list of winners for the 2026 Gear of the Year will be published in the magazine and online in late 2025, offering a preview of the essential kitchen equipment for the upcoming year. This initiative underscores Bon Appétit's commitment to empowering its audience with reliable recommendations and celebrating the innovation that shapes the culinary experience.