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The Best Welding Gloves (MIG, Stick, TIG)

Fact checked by Andrew Carnegie

If you are in the welding industry, wearing the best welding gloves can give you as much protection from harm as possible. Keep in mind that being a welder requires you to perform a number of tasks. It can also expose you to various safety and health hazards.

Among the most common safety hazards and injuries that might affect a welder are burns. It is because there is a great tendency for molten metal fragments and sparks to land on your skin. Because of that, you need proper protection while you are working in the welding industry.

Best Welding Gloves

With that, you will gain some sort of a guarantee that you will not get involved in several workplace accidents that cause finger and hand injuries. It will also prevent work-related and serious burns that might require hospitalization.

With a good pair of welding gloves, you can prevent your hands from getting too exposed to sharp and harmful metal edges, sparks, red hot metals, hot flying metals, and other safety hazards in the welding industry. You can also use your arc welding gloves in protecting your hands from UV radiation often emitted when you do arc welding.

Just ensure that you choose thick and long welding gloves known to provide the best coverage in terms of protection, durability, comfort, and flexibility. Your choice should also fit the kind of welding job you are doing. For instance, find out if you need the best MIG welding gloves, the top-rated TIG welding gloves, or any other types.

If you are still confused, then our top ten picks for the most protective and the best heat-resistant welding gloves might capture your interest.

Top 1

YESWELDER Welding Glove

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Top 2

RAPICCA Forge Welding Gloves

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Top 3

Olson Deepak Welding Gloves

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Best Gloves for Welding Reviews of 2023

1. YESWELDER Welding Glove

Made of a combination of cowhide split leather and cotton lining, these cool welding gloves can protect the wearer against high temperatures of up to 500°C. Sewing the materials together is an equally heat-resistant durable Kevlar thread.

Thanks to the long sleeves, I can keep my forearms covered so no sparks would land on my skin. I’m also impressed that the leather feels tough. It can shield me against abrasive surfaces or pointy objects. When I used this for welding, I’m amazed that every single part of the gloves held up well.

On the inside, the cotton lining does a great job of absorbing my sweat. It feels gentle on my skin but it does not cause my hands to slip and lose my grip. Despite being padded all over, I’m amazed that I could still use my tools well. I think these are pretty decent high dexterity welding gloves

However, these gloves feel stiff at first. It may take a couple of days to break them in but it’s nothing to worry about. The advantages outweigh this small issue. Once the material softens up, you will be able to use them not just in welding but also in landscaping or culinary applications.
What We Like
  • Can withstand extremely high heat
  • Apt for various jobs and tasks
  • Has sweat-absorbing cotton lining
  • Good-quality construction
  • No difficulty in griping and using tools
What We Don’t Like
  • Takes a few days to break in
Besides providing you with protection against heat, these gloves’ inner linings will help you grip your tools with good control. No matter how tough your job is, the soft padding and inner linings will ensure that your hands feel comfortable.

2. RAPICCA Forge Welding Gloves

If you are in search of high-quality welding gloves constructed out of leather material then I am pretty sure that the RAPICCA Forge will not disappoint you. In fact, upon conducting research about this product, I discovered that most welders consider it as the high quality welding gloves in the market at present.

What I love about it is that it works not only for TIG and MIG welding but also in other applications, like when you need to use a pair of gloves in a fireplace, oven, or stove. I am so satisfied with the fact that it is constructed out of a thick leather material, which is known for being flame-resistant.

It is even capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, even those that reach up to 500 degrees Celsius. Aside from being heat-resistant, I am also greatly satisfied with the 100 percent soft cotton lining used in the gloves’ interiors. It is because I noticed how sweat-absorbent it is.

Another incredible benefit provided by this pair of gloves is its ability to make your forearms feel secure. It is extra-long, so rest assured that your forearms will also receive full protection from a number of safety hazards, like hot coals, welding sparks, and grinding debris.

Moreover, it boasts of its double-layered and reinforced Kevlar padding covering the back of your hands, your palms, and your fingers. The fact that it is both durable and thick also makes it as long-lasting as possible.

However, some complained about the loose fitting on the glove’s interior lining.
What We Like
  • Thick and durable
  • Can withstand extreme temperatures
  • Extra-long, thereby offering protection up to your forearms
  • Flame-resistant and sweat-absorbent
  • Reinforced padding
What We Don’t Like
  • Loose fitting on the interior lining
With its ability to protect your hands from a number of safety hazards, I can safely say that it is indeed one great solution for welders who are looking for the perfect welding gloves.

3. Olson Deepak Heat-resistant Welding Gloves

Another product that left an incredible impression on me is the Olson Deepak Heat-resistant welding glove. One thing I instantly noticed about it is its premium quality. It has a quality build in the sense that it has the ability to provide superior hand protection.

I like the strong stitching used in the gloves, too. It is because this makes the gloves more reinforced, allowing them to withstand and survive frequent and heavy usage. I am fond of the premium leather material used in the gloves, too. I think this material is incredible in terms of durability and its ability to resist fire and heat.

Another thing that makes this product amazing is its versatility. I noticed how versatile it is because I was able to use it for other purposes aside from soldering and welding, including mechanical work and carpentry. Anything that seems to expose your skin to various safety hazards, like cuts and burns, can be protected by these welding gloves.

I am so glad that it is designed to be soft and comfortable, too. It is soft, which is one reason behind its high comfort level. It also makes use of a unique cotton lining, which makes the material fire-retardant and heat-resistant. It also improves the ability of the gloves to absorb sweat while making it totally flexible.

Another great benefit is that it features a well-reinforced palm designed to provide proper cushioning for your hands in case you need to work with sharp and heavy objects.

However, it is a bit stiff when used at first but rest assured that it will loosen up as you use it day by day.
What We Like
  • Offers superior hand protection
  • Fire-retardant and heat-resistant
  • Sweat-absorbent and provides proper cushioning for your hands
  • Flexible and comfortable
  • Highly durable
What We Don’t Like
  • A bit stiff initially
Overall, it is a nice pair of gloves that functions well in protecting your lower arms, wrists, and hands from various safety hazards.

4. Kim Yuan ‎017 Extreme Heat & Fire Resistant Gloves

Heat-resistant gloves for welding like this model from Kim Yuan are popular among workers for many good reasons. While they are not made in the U.S, I’m delighted that this hand protection is extremely durable and affordable.

For starters, the combination of high-quality leather and denim can protect me against heat, flames, and even punctures. When it comes to welding applications, the Kevlar stitching assures me that these gloves will not break down or catch fire. Yet, I also find them useful for other tasks like putting logs into the fireplace, carrying hot items, and gripping thorny plans.

Another reason to like these gloves is that their cotton lining feels soft on my skin, and they absorb my sweat as I toil away. Meanwhile, the reinforced palms offer some cushion against the impact of handling tools and punctures of sharp objects. Not only do they make it easier for me to hold items, they help prevent blisters.

With long sleeves, these gloves can shield my forearms. So far, I don’t feel any rough or stiff parts that would rub my skin raw. Also, I think having loops on the gloves is a nice touch as it lets me hang them when they are not in use. My only issue is that the fingers were a little snug but that’s just me. I know other workers who seem to find these gloves well-fitting.
What We Like
  • Suitable for welding and household tasks
  • Protects against heat, flames, and punctures
  • Affordable yet durable
  • The inner lining feels soft on the skin
  • Equipped with loops to hang gloves hangin
What We Don’t Like
  • The glove’s fingers feel a tight
Despite their affordability, these long sleeve welding gloves offer everything you need to perform your task safely. Whether it’s protection against thorns, heat, or flames, you can count on them!

5. Lincoln Electric MIG/Stick Welding Gloves

Constructed out of high-quality split cowhide leather material, I find this next pair of welding gloves from Lincoln Electric a great choice for those who are shopping for reliable MIG and stick welding gloves. It has most of the qualities required for a good pair of welding gloves – one of which is its flame- or heat-resistant nature.

One more impressive fact about these welding gloves is that they offer a high level of comfort. It is because of its full sock lining integrated into its interiors. I am also impressed with its durable nature brought on not only because of its Kevlar stitching and welted seams but also because of the fact that it is strategically fitted with pads.

I am also glad that these welding gloves from Lincoln Electric feature high wear pads and a padded thumb. It is because I noticed how effective it is in increasing the life of the gloves. In terms of protection, I find it more than adequate. It is because it is not only heat-resistant but also puncture-resistant.

In addition, I find its built-in cuff effective in terms of providing additional protection to the welding gloves. The high-grade leather, as well as the soft cotton lining integrated into the construction of these gloves, also make it capable of withstanding high temperatures.

The fully lined interior also works effectively in withstanding daily exposure to sparks, spatter, flames, and heat.

However, it does not have straps that are supposed to be useful in holding the gloves in place.
What We Like
  • Ideal for both MIG and stick welding
  • Flame and heat-resistant
  • Offers more than enough protection
  • Comfortable and long-lasting
  • Uses high-grade leather for its construction
What We Don’t Like
  • Lacks straps
Despite that, I still recommend this high-quality welding glove from Lincoln Electric because it works well, especially when used in welding conditions with extreme heat.

6. QeeLink Welding Gloves

If what you are looking for is a pair of multifunctional gloves, then this product from QeeLink might be the best option. I find these welding gloves multifunctional because of the many things that it can perform. It is appropriate not only for welding but also for other tasks.

It also works well in various workplaces as well as in fireplaces, camping, and gardening. I am greatly satisfied with its overall construction as it is actually based on thick and real leather. This specific material is beneficial as it maximizes the durability of the gloves. The fact that the leather is heavy-duty also makes the gloves fireproof.

The strength of these welding gloves from QeeLink is also impressive considering the fact that it has locked stitches. It is thrice as strong as the usual welding gloves as the stitches use the ever reliable Kevlar thread. I am also a great fan of the soft texture used in these welding gloves.

I can attribute this soft texture to the full cotton interiors used in the gloves that are not only comfortable but are also capable of absorbing sweat. I am also satisfied with the protective nature of the gloves. It is effective in protecting you from thermal and mechanical risks.

I am also fond of the flexible design used in these welding gloves. It is completely flexible as it boasts of a reinforced wing thumb design. It makes it capable of operating with ease and holding items without any problems.

However, just like the previous item reviewed in this article, these gloves are quite stiff.
What We Like
  • Multifunctional
  • Strong and durable
  • Comfortable and sweat-absorbent
  • Offers protection from thermal and mechanical risks
  • Comes with a flexible design
What We Don’t Like
  • Quite stiff
Still, I can’t deny the fact that this is a truly amazing pair of gloves capable of providing incredible hand protection for welders.

7. Caiman White Goatskin Welding-Tig, Mig Gloves

Are you interested in the famous Caiman welding gloves? Then this pair, which is primarily designed for TIG and MIG welding and constructed mainly out of white goatskin may be what you need. I find it truly impressive and favorable because it is constructed from sturdy and resilient goat grain leather material.

Offered at a reasonable price, I noticed that this pair of gloves comes with several impressive and nice features. One thing I love is the high cuff. I find it beneficial as it offers full protection for my forearms. It works in protecting my forearms from possible burns when I am welding.

I am also glad that it supports proper hand movements as it is made to provide more dexterity compared to the others. It is well-constructed. The leather used for the white hand is also notable because of its softness and high level of comfort. The brown cuff integrated into the gloves is also firm but offers your needed protection.

Another thing that I am so impressed with is its ability to hold up to abuse. It can even withstand several hours of use every day without its parts and seams breaking up too fast. It also provides better thermal protection than other TIG/MIG welders.

It is lightweight while being flexible and promoting a nice and great feel.

However, one flaw I discovered is that its cuff is a bit stiff during the first several uses.
What We Like
  • Affordable price
  • Made of sturdy goat grain leather
  • Comes with a high cuff, which completely protects your forearms
  • Soft and comfortable
  • Lightweight and flexible
What We Don’t Like
  • Quite a stiff cuff during first uses
The good news is that these welding gloves from Caiman perfectly serve their purpose, especially in terms of protecting welders and providing them with the level of dexterity they prefer.

8. US Forge 400 Welding Gloves

The next product that I think should earn a spot in this review article and buying guide is the US Forge 400 Welding Glove. One thing I love about it is its nice color, which appears in bright blue. I also find its cotton lining a big advantage as it is extremely comfortable.

When it comes to durability, I noticed that the gloves do not disappoint. I realized that it has become stronger and more durable because it is lock-stitched. It also makes use of top-grain leather material, which improves dexterity through its softness and suppleness.

The leather used here is also of premium quality, promoting utmost comfort and durability. I am also pleased with the well-reinforced frictional parts in the finger and palms as I find them effective in strengthening the grip and making the gloves more comfortable to wear.

Another benefit of this pair of protective equipment for the hands is that it is lightweight without losing its robust construction. It is a big help for cutting torch and welding. It also offers a high level of protection from molten materials. It is heat-resistant and tear- and wear-resistant.

I also discovered that it is one of the most reasonably priced welding gloves in the market today that deliver excellent quality.

However, it also carries its share of faults and flaws – one of which is that its nice bright blue color is prone to fading.
What We Like
  • Comfortable with its cotton lining
  • Strong and durable
  • Soft and supple, making it even more comfortable
  • Good grip due to its well-reinforced parts
  • Lightweight and robust
What We Don’t Like
  • The color is prone to fading
This flaw is just minor if you consider the overall quality and excellent performance of this popular pair of welding gloves from US Forge.

9. Lincoln Electric Roll Cage Welding Gloves

Another protective pair of welding gloves is the Lincoln Electric Roll Cage. What I love about this pair is that it has a genuinely robust construction based on strong and sturdy grain cowhide. It also uses Kevlar thread for stitching while being improved with the aid of silicone knuckle protection, allowing it to handle tough situations and environments.

I love the well-reinforced palm of this pair of gloves, too. Aside from the reinforcement, it also has leather patches designed to make the gloves even more protective and durable. I like the flexible and versatile design of this pair of gloves, too.

I noticed its versatility upon seeing that I can use it not only in welding but also in handling materials and doing other jobs. It has well-stitched seams designed in such a way that it can prevent it from ripping and tearing. Another benefit I noticed in these gloves is that it features an internal hand liner, which offers protection from cut hazards.

Furthermore, it is heat-resistant and impact-resistant. Another strength that I noticed about this pair of welding gloves is that it offers protection against impact. I discovered this benefit because of its high-temperature silicone reinforcements. This level of protection makes it capable of withstanding ambient heat caused by welding jobs.

It is also capable of withstanding daily exposure to spatter, sparks, and flames. It holds up to daily abuse well, proving how long-lasting it is.

However, some say that the sizing is a bit off.
What We Like
  • Robust and strong construction
  • Well-reinforced, boosting its level of protection
  • Highly flexible and versatile design
  • Can resist impact and heat
  • Can withstand various safety hazards, like spatter, sparks, and flames
What We Don’t Like
  • Sizing is a bit off
Overall, this pair of heavy-duty gloves is an incredible investment for welders who want to gain the highest level of protection in their work environment.

10. Revco Industries BM88L BSX MIG Welding Gloves

I would also like to highlight the BM88L BSX MIG Welding Gloves from Revco Industries. It is a classy and sturdy pair, which is comfortable enough to wear. It is perfect for you if you are involved in MIG welding. One impressive thing about this glove is that it is waterproof.

It also boasts of a padded palm area, which makes it truly comfortable. The finger and palm parts are also comfortable enough considering the fact that they are constructed from soft pigskin material. I noticed its toughness and durability, too. It is mainly because it makes use of tough cowhide material on its back portions.

It delivers a great performance in terms of dexterity, comfort, and protection. Another thing that I love about these gloves is that they have reinforcements, proving their toughness and strength. I am also impressed with the flame-resistant Kevlar stitching used in the gloves.

It is thick enough that it can resist heat while still allowing your fingers to move around, giving you full control over your movements. Another benefit is that it is easy to clean and wash. It is well-insulated, too.

In addition, it is available in sizes that fit the majority of people.

However, some say that it is prone to acquiring cracks in the future.
What We Like
  • Classy design
  • Waterproof and easy to clean
  • Offers good dexterity and a high level of protection
  • Heat-resistant and well-insulated
  • Promotes full control of your hand and finger movements
What We Don’t Like
  • Prone to cracks
Still, it is one of the best performers in the welding gloves industry considering its quality, level of protection, and sturdiness.

11. Caiman 1878-5 21-inch American Deerskin Welding Gloves

I would also like to introduce this 21-inch American Deerskin Welding Glove from Caiman. One strength of this welding glove is its length. It is long enough that it can offer superior and full coverage for your palms, wrists, and entire hands. It offers full coverage, protecting your hands from spatter, sparks, and heat.

The length of these gloves makes it capable of protecting even up to your forearm. I am also happy to say that this pair of gloves is super comfortable. It is comfortable because of its pre-curved fingers and form-fitting shape that fit comfortably and naturally around your hands’ shape.

I also like the well-reinforced palms and wrist of these gloves. It has extra padding, which contributes a lot in making it more protective from splatter, sparks, and heat. The large patches and reinforcements added into the gloves make it capable of providing superior protection to your palms and wrists from various safety hazards.

I am also glad to say that this glove features a special strap, which is helpful in ensuring that it does not slip down when you are working. With that, you are assured of the ability of the gloves to keep you protected the entire day.

Another great advantage of this glove is that it is compatible with a number of welding tasks, including plasma, overhead, and stick welding. This welding glove is designed to be extremely fireproof, too, allowing it to deal with the open fire well.

However, it also has a weakness, which is the fact that its Kevlar stitching, while durable, is still prone to ripping with constant, extended use.
What We Like
  • Long enough to provide full protection
  • Comfortable and form-fitting
  • Features well-reinforced palms
  • Does not slip down, thanks to its special strap
  • Fireproof
What We Don’t Like
  • The Kevlar stitching is prone to ripping
Overall, this welding glove from Caiman has a higher chance of giving you one hundred percent satisfaction because it is innovative and form-fitting while being protective and comfortable.

12. John Tillman & Co Top Grain Leather MIG Gloves

If you are interested in the highly reputable Tillman welding gloves, then you might want to check out this top grain leather MIG gloves from the same brand. What I like about Tillman is that it already earned an excellent reputation, especially in the quality of their products.

These MIG gloves are built for excellence. It makes use of cotton and cowhide for its overall construction, both materials are flame-resistant. I am impressed with the effectiveness of this MIG gloves in protecting your hands from spatter and flames.

It even makes use of Kevlar threads for the stitches of its seams, making the gloves stronger. The back part of it comes with a carded elastic, which allows the gloves to stay in your hand without requiring adjustments. It is also convenient to use because of its seamless forefinger.

This feature is beneficial as it prevents you from having to remove your gloves every time you need to operate or run remote controls. The body of the gloves is constructed from cotton, making it cooler compared to other materials. It has better heat-resistance, too, because of its specially tanned and treated sleeves.

It also guarantees a more secure fit.

One possible problem, though, is its quite bulky nature.
What We Like
  • Flame-resistant construction
  • Strong and sturdy
  • Convenient to use, thanks to its seamless forefinger
  • Guarantees a secure fit
  • Cotton body, making it cooler compared to other materials
What We Don’t Like
  • A bit bulky
The fact that these welding gloves from John Tillman are built in a way that they can endure extreme temperatures and harsh conditions is one reason why it is an excellent choice for welders.

What is a Pair of Welding Gloves

best stick welding gloves

A pair of welding gloves refers to personal protective equipment designed to offer protection to the hands of welders. If you are a welder then you are probably aware of how hazardous your working environment is. Fortunately, you can find thick welding gloves in the market that can provide you the highest level of protection.

With these gloves, you get the chance to let digit articulation take place while ensuring that you are protected from extreme heat, infrared and UV radiation, and electrical shock. It is also known for its ability to resist abrasion and enhancing your grip.

Welding gloves often form part of your welding ensemble together with coveralls and helmet, among many others. The manufacturing and design of the gloves require specific care as you will be using them close to the actual welding procedure. You will need to wear the gloves over your hands.

The fact that it is close to the welding process is also the reason why the gloves are manufactured with individual sheaths for your thumb and fingers. They are more functional than mittens considering the fact that they are sturdier and capable of dissipating heat well.

You can also expect them to be electrically non-conductive. These gloves are also designed in a way that they use additional materials to further improve their level of protection. You can even find gloves with oversized cuffs designed to offer vambrace-like protection in case of splatters on your forearm.

How Does It Work

Welding gloves work depending on the particular type you have chosen to buy (the types of welding gloves will be discussed in the next section of this article). One thing to remember regarding the way welding gloves function is that the nature of each welding project differs.

This is the main reason why you can also find different types that accommodate a specific need. It is even possible for you to find flexible gloves that work in a wide range of circumstances as well as heavy-duty gloves, allowing you to fulfill your welding tasks in a safe manner.

Another thing to keep in mind is that welding gloves tend to dry out over time because of being overly exposed to high and extreme heat. To work more effectively, you can see well-designed gloves with built-in leather on the thumb, index finger, and across your hand’s metacarpus area.

In addition, you can see Kevlar seams with double stitching that help in increasing the glove’s lifespan. You can expect these stitches to follow your hand’s natural profile, thereby increasing their flexibility. You can also expect some welding gloves, especially those made of leather, to work with the aid of aftermarket anti-splatter spray.

It is because the spray can prevent the leather welding glove from being burned down due to insulation. In most cases, the insulation is often constructed from aluminized liner, foam, or fleece, which is a big help in protecting your hands. The problem is that some of these liners are also flammable.

With that, you need to ensure that the liners are not that flammable and should contain properties to improve their ability to wick moisture and sweat. They should also prevent bacteria buildup within the glove. You can also expect the gloves to work if they are properly sized and comfortable, giving you great control when using the tool.

Types of Welding Gloves

best-heat-resistant-welding-gloves

To keep you safe from the welding process, you need to protect your hands with the right gloves – one that is known for its quality and is suitable for the kind of job you intend it to perform. Based on the actual welding process, the types of glove that you can choose include the following:

MIG Welding Gloves – As the name suggests, this is perfect for you if you are involved in MIG welding projects. This specific welding project requires you to find the best MIG welding gloves constructed out of high-quality goatskin. It also needs to have a heat-resistant lining.

Both the mentioned features are essential considering the fact that MIG welding exposes you to high amounts of spatter and heat. You will also know that you get a pair of gloves for MIG welding if it is thick enough and has multiple layers.

Also, you can choose gloves from other leather materials, including deerskin, goatskin, and top-grain cowhide. One more thing to remember is that the specific manner through which the leather material molds around your hand can provide you with the protection you specifically need when you are working.

TIG Welding Gloves – Another type of welding gloves is the one designed for TIG welders who prefer to use those with pliable and thin materials, like goatskin. It is mainly because such gloves can offer the movement that they desperately need, allowing them to make precise welds through TIG torches.

Unlike the MIG gloves, TIG gloves do not require as much protection against hot process because the TIG welding process involves fewer spatters than MIG. Note that TIG gloves are also often constructed with additional padding surrounding the palm and the outer part of your hand.

The additional padding also aids in helping your fingers rest along the hot surfaces. One thing to remember about TIG gloves is that they need to be easy to remove just in case it gets too hot. In this case, you might want to invest in a lining constructed from the heat resistant wool foam or Kevlar. This can enhance its ability to offer protection.

Stick Welding Gloves – You can also choose to invest in stick welding gloves, especially if you are involved in this industry. If you are involved in stick welding then take note that you will most likely need a thicker leather material. In this case, you might want to use split grains of pigskin, goatskin and elk skin.

The good news is that the stick welding process is simpler than the other two. This is the main reason why you do not need to look for a lot of flexibility from the best stick welding gloves.

What you should be looking for are adequate protection and enough thickness. It is primarily because the whole procedure produces a lot of sparks and heat, making it different in comparison to other welding procedures.

You should also know that aside from the kind of welding that you do, the material used also contributes to determining the type of gloves that will work for you. Note that the most commonly used material for welding is leather. Leather welder gloves are popular because this material offers great resistance to abrasion, flame, and heat.

You can also expect it to work better in resisting punctures in comparison to other materials. However, take note that different kinds of leather also deliver different levels of performance. Among the kinds of leather used in welding are the following:

  • Elskin – Elskin is considered to be the ultimate choice if you want your welding gloves to feel really comfortable while delivering an excellent performance. What is good about this leather material is that it naturally molds to your hand. It does not harden as quickly as cowhide each time you expose it to high heat, too.

With that, you have a guarantee that you will experience less hand fatigue. It is the most reliable leather material for welders who work in conditions with high heat, particularly those involved in stick welding.

  • Cowhide – In comparison to elskin, cowhide is known to be sturdier and tougher. However, it does not have as much pliability delivered by elskin. If you go for top-grain cowhide welding gloves then expect them to be manufactured using the topmost layer of the cow’s hide.

You can also expect it to be not only high in quality but also long-lasting. What is good about cowhide is that it has several qualities that make it capable of being used for various purposes in the welding industry. You can see it is primarily used in MIG and stick welding because both applications require durability.

  • Pigskin – Pigskin is also another popular leather material used in welding gloves. It is a sturdy hide, which is compatible with oily and wet conditions. What is good about it is that it does not only feel soft but is also breathable naturally.

It offers all-day comfort to welders. One great advantage of pigskin is that it is soft on your hands while also showcasing a good grip. This makes it really great for welders.

  • Deerskin – Another leather material used in creating welding gloves is deerskin. What is great about it is that it is supple, thereby providing the perfect fit, dexterity, and feel. This is the primary reason why you can find its split leather variety being frequently used in gloves designed for TIG welding.
  • Goatskin – If what you are after are high tensile strength and good abrasion-resistance then you can never go wrong with goatskin welding gloves. One advantage of this material is that it is both soft and supple. It is perfect for TIG gloves that require dexterity.

Why Do You Need to Wear Welding Gloves

A pair of welding gloves is a must-have for all welders across the gloves. One of the main reason for wearing it is to protect your hands from sparks. It also offers protection against high temperatures, particularly those that go up to 600 degrees F.

It is even advisable to wear heat-resistant welding gloves – those that are useful when used in areas exposing you to open flames. You should also be able to use them in a wide range of welding applications.

The right welding gloves are essential considering the fact that a number of welding processes, like stick and MIG welding, produces a lot of sparks. This might also cause some pieces of hot metal to fly around you. Because of the safety hazards involved, you really need a pair of flame-resistant and thick welding gloves.

You also need to wear welding gloves all the time because it can protect you from hand injuries, particularly punctures, cuts, fractures, sprains, and burns. Note that one reason why your hands get injured if you are a welder is the lack of hand protection.

You can avoid that, therefore, with sufficient and proper hand protection in the form of welding gloves. Another possible reason behind the importance of welding gloves is that most of them offer the comfort and dexterity you need. Fortunately, most gloves for welding are now made from lightweight, breathable, and comfortable material.

They are, therefore, capable of making you comfortable when used on the job while also providing more than enough grip. You can even find windproof and waterproof ones as well as those that are designed to handle extremely low or high temperatures, thereby keeping your hand safe when doing your welding job.

Welding Gloves Buying Guide

best mig welding gloves

The best welding gloves are durable, heat-resistant, and flexible, among many other positive qualities. They also have specialized designs that make them compatible with your specific welding project. Shopping for the most appropriate welding gloves for you should, therefore, be based on these highly important factors:

The kind of welding project – When shopping for a good pair of welding gloves, it is crucial to consider the specific kind of welding project where you intend to use it. You need to figure out what type of welding job you intend to do. Is it TIG welding that requires a high level of precision?

Is it MIG welding that needs high production and speed? Or is it stick welding that exposes you to the highest number of sparks, heat, and spatter. By considering the kind of project you intend to do, you will have a higher chance of finding gloves that are suitable for it.

Material – Generally, welding gloves are manufactured using leather. They can also be manufactured by combining leather and fire-resistant fabrics. Every material showcases various levels of flexibility, breathability, toughness, and weight. TIG and MIG gloves usually use various materials as a means of maximizing the mentioned qualities.

As an example, most MIG gloves are constructed from pigskin or cowhide as a means of boosting their durability. Meanwhile, TIG gloves utilize goatskin, deerskin, or any fire-resistant fabric designed to help in producing a well-fitted and lightweight glove.

The level of protection offered – Examine the level of protection provided by a particular pair of welding gloves before buying. Determine the safety hazards you will most likely expose yourself to, such as the kind of heat. You should also determine the length of exposure or contact to a specific safety hazard.

Also, find out whether the pair of gloves you are planning to buy offers other safety features. These include flame-resistant and heat-resistant materials and liners.

Hand mobility – It is also advisable to pick welding gloves that support hand movements. It should be able to give your hands proper dexterity in the sense that you will not have a difficult time moving it. With this, your hands can move while also being protected no matter what welding task you are involved in.

Remember, though, that in terms of welding, the ability to move your hands is vital in the efficient performance and completion of a task but the required level of dexterity differs based on the welding style. For instance, in the case of MIG and stick welding, the key to doing your job correctly is a higher level of heat protection.

Overall performance – While it would be a bit hard to judge the performance of a specific glove prior to using it, it is still possible for you to assess it based on its build quality. Some additional features are also useful in determining the overall performance of the work gloves based on their intended purpose.

For instance, you can find welding gloves in the market that have Kevlar stitches. These additional features further improve the gloves’ durability. You can also find gloves with extra padding found at the back part of your hand and in your palm, making it ideal in case you are involved in MIG welding.

Such features are helpful if you want your hand to receive additional protection that works in stabilizing the welding torch. You can even find welding gloves that go over your elbow, offering protection up to your forearms. Another nice feature is a strap, which is helpful in ensuring that your welding gloves do not fall off that easily.

Check all the features and components of the welding gloves prior to buying them. Be knowledgeable about it from the inside and out. That way, you will get an idea about its build quality even before you got the chance to use it. This is also the key to know more about its overall performance.

Size and Length – Choosing the right pair of welding gloves also requires you to choose the most suitable size for you. It should fit your hands really well. In case you are a part of the metal welding industry then it is advisable to look for a pair of work gloves, which covers not only your hands but also your whole forearm.

Also, remember that when choosing a size, it is also necessary to check how comfortable it is. You will instantly recognize that the gloves fit well if you experience utmost comfort when wearing them.

While some manufacturers provide a one-size-fits-all option, rest assured that you can also access those brands in various sizes, specifically small, medium, large and XL. Pick a size that really fits you comfortably. Check the wrist’s length of the glove, too.

Keep in mind that you need complete coverage for welding gloves, especially if you are one of those metal welders, as this job exposes your arms and wrists to splatters. With that, you need to assess the arm’s length and find out if it is enough to give you the extra protection you desperately need.

When shopping for the perfect pair of welding gloves, remember that the best ones are those that can improve your speed, safety, and welding ability, especially when you are doing plenty of cutting and welding operations. If possible, look for gloves that are flame-resistant and heat-resistant, too.

Aside from the already mentioned factors, spend time assessing whether the gloves can protect you from electric shock caused by the equipment used for welding. It should also have properly insulated linings designed to keep you protected from areas that are overly exposed to UV or high-radiant energy.

In addition, it should give enough hand coverage and should be constructed out of the best materials that can lessen the risk of skin burns. Your best choices, in that case, are leather and other materials that are flame-resistant.

Care and Maintenance

Your welding gloves need to be taken cared of if you want them to serve their purpose for a prolonged period. Note that over time, your gloves will accumulate dirt, especially with regular use. This is the main reason why you have to learn a thing or two about properly cleaning and maintaining it.

When it comes to washing your welding gloves, one thing to continue reminding yourself is that you need to avoid making them extremely wet. This especially holds true for leather welding gloves. If possible, make use of mild soap, cold water, and sponge in tidying up your gloves.

You also need to lay the leather gloves flat when drying them. Do not wring them after washing. Aside from washing, it is also necessary to inspect the welding gloves every day to ensure that it does not get damaged significantly. Store the gloves at the right places, too.

If possible, put them in well-ventilated bins or shelves. The storage areas should be away from direct sunlight. They should be in an area with proper room temperature. Do not store the gloves in closed plastic bags or damp areas. This will ensure that mildew and mold do not grow and build up in the gloves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are good welding glove brands?

If you are shopping for good welding gloves then you will be glad to know that several reliable brands offering this product are now easy to access. Among the most reputable brands are Rapicca, Lincoln, Qeelink, Caiman, and Revco.

What is impressive about these brands is that they are known for supplying highly reliable welding gloves of superior qualities. The qualities are amazing in the sense that you can use them for a wide range of tasks.

You can find TIG and MIG gloves from these brands as well as the best gloves for flux core welding. These popular brands are even known for their forearm protection, comfort, heat resistance, thick leather material, good dexterity, puncture resistance, and proper and sufficient insulation.

Are welding gloves fireproof?

Most welding gloves that are offered in the market today are fireproof considering the fact that burns are among the most common issues and injuries faced by welders who do not have proper hand protection. If you are looking for a heat-resistant or fireproof welding glove then you might want to pick that made of Kevlar.

This is a popular choice because of its ability to withstand extremely high temperatures, even those that go up to 800 degrees F. It can withstand that temperature with a low to zero risk of melting. The gloves are flame-resistant and cut-resistant, too.

What gloves should I get for stick welding?

Stick welding requires maximum protection against fire, sparks, spatter, heat, and possible electric shock from using the welding equipment. For that, you need leather welding gloves with long sleeves that cover your forearm.

However, your welding gloves for stick welding must only be protective but also comfy and good-fitting so that you can do your job well. Just like choosing the clothes to wear for each season, you need to consider what is more appropriate for the weather.

Furthermore, the gloves should not hinder you from raising or your lowering your helmet shield, using the welding shield, moving pieces of metal into place, handling the welding rod, and other tasks.

There is no single model of good welding gloves for stick welding. In some cases, you will need lightweight welding gloves while other times, you need something tougher and heavier.

While you can find tips on Reddit or blogs, take the time to go through the hazard analysis and do your research to determine the best protection.

Why do most welding gloves have a cuff?

The purpose of the cuffs on welding gloves is to protect the worker’s forearms against flames, sparks, high heat, flying metal objects, and other hazards that come with the job.

That said, these heavy-duty welding gloves will work well when worn alongside welding jackets or flame-resistant sleeves.

What are welding gloves made of?

The majority of welding gloves today are constructed out of leather materials. The type of leather used in them, though, differs. It is because different materials also suit different welding jobs. It is up to you, therefore, to determine what specific kind of metal is compatible with the welding job you are tasked to perform regularly.

What are the differences between MIG and TIG gloves?

MIG and TIG gloves are actually two of the most commonly used gloves in the industry. Both have their individual differences. One major difference is that the MIG welding gloves are known for fitting looser compared to TIG gloves. MIG gloves also come with extra padding at the back of the hands.

The additional padding provides additional protection to your non-dominant hand when you are working. MIG welding gloves are also designed in such a way that they can easily throw the glove in case it gets too hot.

While these features might lessen the maneuverability for your fingers, MIG welders are not actually concerned with it because most of the techniques they use depend on the wrist, instead of fine finger movements. Also, the MIG welder gloves already provide more than enough protection for your entire hand.

As for the TIG gloves, be aware that they use softer and thinner materials compared to the ones for MIG. You can also expect the fit for TIG gloves to be snug, thereby allowing you to manipulate the filler and torch more precisely.

Also, the most common safety hazards in TIG welding usually come from light instead of sparks. Because of that, you do not need thicker material for the glove.

How much protection do I need?

The level of protection you need actually depends on the specific welding job you are involved in. Generally, though, you need gloves that can protect yourself from hand injuries, skin burns, and electric shocks that commonly affect welders without proper hand protection.

You may also need to protect your hands from getting cut, smashed or crushed in between two heavy objects. Other dangers and safety hazards that you are constantly exposing yourself to include hot metal, grime, chemicals, grease, dust, hot flying objects, and sparks.

Make sure that you look for a pair of welding gloves that offer protection from the mentioned hazards. It is necessary to wear protective hand gloves all the time, especially when you are welding.

What size do I need?

The size of welding gloves you need will depend on the actual size of your hands. Determine which size is comfortable enough to wear. Note that the actual fit depends on your own physique. To determine the right length, make it a point to measure from the topmost part of your longest finger.

The measurement should be up to your wrist and across your knuckles’ base on your hand’s palm side. In terms of finding the correct width, measure across your knuckles’ base, specifically at your hand’s palm side.

How much do welding gloves cost?

The amount that you will spend on welding gloves usually depends on your budget and needs. You can actually find gloves offered at around $4 to $5 but you can’t expect them to be as long-lasting as those at average or high prices. If you want gloves of better quality then consider investing around $10 to $50.

You can also go for premium quality welding gloves that cost up to $100. Most of these high-priced ones are constructed from high-quality and durable materials and have features that make them more protective when compared to the others.

How long do welding gloves last?

The specific length of time your welding gloves will last often depend on the frequency of using them. If you work in busy welding shops and use low-quality gloves then you might need to have your gloves replaced two to three times every week.

However, if you are just a typical hobby welder who uses your gloves on small and medium projects then you can expect them to last longer. You will instantly know if the glove needs replacement if it comes with a hole caused by being burned on hot metal.

Check whether it has been ripped or scorched, too, as this indicates the need for replacement.

Should I buy a pair of welding sleeves?

If you want to receive the highest level of protection when you are doing some welding jobs, then it would be best to invest in a good pair of welding sleeves. Keep in mind that welding is known for being a dangerous profession or hobby. It involves joining metal pieces together through pressure, heat, or both.

That said, you should make it a point to shield any exposed skin, keeping yourself protected from burns, fire, and heat. If you think that you need a high-quality pair of welding sleeves then you might want to check out Lincoln Electric Flame-Resistant Welding Sleeves.

The fact that it is constructed from a flame-resistant material makes it truly protective. Both ends even feature elastic cuffs designed to offer additional protection while holding your sleeves in the right position. With these easy to use welding sleeves, keeping your arms protected from heat and spatter is possible.

How to clean and wash welding gloves?

Washing dirty welding gloves should be done with utmost care to prevent them from getting damaged along the process. One thing that you can do is to prepare warm water and antibacterial dish soap solution. Create a soapy solution then allow your welding gloves to immerse in there for a few minutes.

Once done, rinse the gloves thoroughly using cold water. Wring them out then air-dry by hanging them. This should take around twelve hours. The next step involves putting a bit of saddle soap into the welding gloves. Rub this soap into the gloves’ material. What is good about the saddle soap is that it can improve the pliability of your gloves.

Conclusion

As a welder, you are exposing yourself to a few dangers and safety hazards. This is the main reason why you have to do something to protect different parts of your body, particularly your hands. You can do that by investing in the best welding gloves designed to offer you the protection you need while still making you feel comfortable at work.

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