FAQ

Do I need a different glove for each welding process?

Yes, different welding processes—stick, MIG, and TIG—have unique requirements due to their varying heat levels and techniques.

TIG Welding Gloves:
For TIG welding, gloves need to allow for superior dexterity and precise movements. Thin, pliable materials like goatskin are preferred, and some welders opt for extra padding on the fingers for added protection against hot surfaces. Heat-resistant Kevlar® thread and cushioned linings can enhance comfort and safety.

MIG Welding Gloves:
MIG welding generates higher heat and more spatter, so gloves made from top-grain goatskin, cowhide, or deerskin are ideal. MIG welders often prefer thicker gloves for added safety, while deerskin’s flexibility helps the glove conform to the hand.

Stick Welding Gloves:
For stick welding, thicker leathers like pigskin or goatskin are recommended. While flexibility is less critical due to the straightforward nature of stick welding, the glove’s thickness is essential to protect against the high temperatures and sparks produced during this process.

Regardless of the welding method, it’s important to choose gloves that balance heat protection with agility and comfort to help reduce hand fatigue.

What types of materials are commonly used in welding gloves?

Welding gloves can vary in price and performance based on the materials used, particularly the type of leather. Key factors include the location and cut of the leather, as thick hides are typically split to create two variations:

  • Split Leather: This is the lower part of the hide, known for high abrasion resistance and flexibility.
  • Grain Leather: This is the upper part, offering similar benefits but with a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing finish.

Different animal hides also have unique properties that affect their performance:

  • Cowhide: Often used for MIG welding gloves, top-grain cowhide is durable, heat-and flame-resistant, and provides a good balance of dexterity, abrasion resistance, and comfort. It performs well at high temperatures.
  • Deerskin: Thicker deerskin is effective at resisting high temperatures and molds comfortably to the hand over time, making it a popular choice.
  • Pigskin: This thinner material is more resistant to oil and weather but may not offer the same level of heat resistance as other leathers.
  • Goatskin: Most TIG welders prefer goatskin for its lightweight and high dexterity. It’s also oil-and weather-resistant, making it easy to handle filler metal rods.

Understanding the different materials can help you choose the right welding gloves for your specific needs.

What are the ANSI requirements for welding gloves?

According to ANSI Z49.1, all welders are required to wear protective, flame-resistant gloves. The standard emphasizes the importance of proper care and inspection of gloves after use, especially when exposed to hazards that could compromise their effectiveness, such as mechanical or thermal hazards.

Mechanical hazards can cause cuts, scrapes, tears, and punctures, leading to damage to the glove materials. Similarly, thermal and electrical hazards pose risks to glove quality. Therefore, thorough inspection after each use is recommended.

For optimal protection, your welding gloves should be:

  • Dry and moisture-resistant
  • In good condition: No holes or tears
  • Flame-resistant
  • Comfortable: Proper fit and size
  • Electrically and thermally insulated to suit the welding process
  • Flexible: Allowing easy movement and a full range of motion
  • Constructed from appropriate materials, with secure seams and edges based on the specific application
  • Durable, rugged, and long-lasting
  • Cut, scrape, tear, and puncture-resistant

Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure your gloves provide the necessary protection during welding tasks.

What are the best design recommendations for welding gloves?

When working in welding, confidence in your protective gear is essential. There are various glove styles available, each offering different levels of protection. Some gloves focus on protecting just the fingers and palms, while others extend protection to the entire hand and even the wrist and forearm.

You can choose from a range of materials, including leather, cotton, and wool. Given the diverse applications within welding, relying on just one pair of gloves may not be sufficient. Having multiple styles ensures you have the right fit and type for each specific job.

Prop 65 Warning:
WARNING: This product can expose you to Chromium (Hexavalent Compounds), known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Showing all 17 results