Stick welding (or SMAW) demands tough gloves. You’re dealing with heat, sparks, and molten metal. Regular work gloves just won’t cut it. I learned that the hard way when a stray spark burned right through my old gloves – and my skin! Now, I’m serious about hand protection, and I’ve tested a bunch of welding gloves to find the best ones. So, if you’re looking for the best stick welding gloves, this guide will help you find a pair that offers the right protection, dexterity, and comfort for your needs.
Here’s a quick rundown of the top picks:
- Lincoln Electric Traditional Heavy Duty Welding Gloves: Best overall for heavy-duty protection and durability.
- Kim Yuan Welding Gloves Heat & Fire Resistant Leather Forge Welding Gloves: Best budget option for decent protection at an affordable price.
- Tillman 5250 Welding Gloves: Best for dexterity and comfort without sacrificing protection.
- Revco BSX Black Stallion: Best premium gloves for superior heat resistance and durability.
- Steiner 21913 Welding Gloves: Best for extended cuff protection and larger hands.
Top 5 Best Stick Welding Gloves Reviews
1. Lincoln Electric Traditional Heavy Duty Welding Gloves
The Lincoln Electric Traditional Heavy Duty Welding Gloves are built to last. They’re made from thick, durable leather and offer excellent protection against heat and sparks. These are the gloves I grab when I know I’m in for a long day of heavy welding.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent heat resistance for demanding welding tasks.
- ✅ Durable leather construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- ✅ Provides ample coverage and protection for hands and wrists.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
- ❌ Dexterity is somewhat limited due to the thickness of the leather.
- ❌ May be too bulky for intricate or detailed welding work.
Verdict: These are great all-around gloves, perfect for welders who need reliable, heavy-duty protection for everyday stick welding jobs. If you prioritize durability and heat resistance over fine motor skills, these are a solid choice.
2. Kim Yuan Welding Gloves Heat & Fire Resistant Leather Forge Welding Gloves
The Kim Yuan Welding Gloves offer decent protection at a price that won’t break the bank. They’re made from split leather and are surprisingly flexible for the cost. If you’re just starting out or need a backup pair, these are worth considering.
Pros:
- ✅ Budget-friendly option for welders on a tight budget.
- ✅ Provides adequate heat and fire resistance for light to medium welding tasks.
- ✅ Flexible leather allows for a reasonable range of motion.
Cons:
- ❌ Durability is lower compared to premium welding gloves.
- ❌ Stitching may be prone to wear and tear with heavy use.
- ❌ Less insulation than higher-end options, potentially leading to heat fatigue during extended welding sessions.
Verdict: If you need an inexpensive pair of welding gloves, the Kim Yuan gloves are a good starting point. They’re suitable for occasional use and light welding projects. Just don’t expect them to hold up under constant, heavy-duty conditions.
3. Tillman 5250 Welding Gloves
The Tillman 5250 Welding Gloves strike a great balance between protection and dexterity. They’re made from top-grain leather and feature a reinforced palm for added durability. I like these for jobs where I need to feel what I’m doing.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent dexterity for precise welding and material handling.
- ✅ Top-grain leather offers a comfortable and flexible fit.
- ✅ Reinforced palm provides added protection and durability in high-wear areas.
Cons:
- ❌ Heat resistance is good, but not as high as heavier-duty options.
- ❌ May not be suitable for extreme high-heat welding applications.
- ❌ Price is higher compared to budget-friendly welding gloves.
Verdict: These gloves are a top pick for welders who need a good balance of protection and dexterity. They’re ideal for general welding tasks where you need to maintain a feel for your work. If you’re doing a lot of intricate work, these are the gloves you want.
4. Revco BSX Black Stallion
The Revco BSX Black Stallion welding gloves are top-of-the-line. They’re made from premium grain pigskin leather, known for its heat resistance and durability. These gloves are designed to withstand the toughest welding conditions. I treated myself to a pair last year, and they’re still going strong.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior heat resistance for prolonged welding sessions.
- ✅ Durable grain pigskin leather ensures long-lasting performance.
- ✅ Comfortable fit with excellent dexterity for precise welding.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to standard welding gloves.
- ❌ May require a short break-in period to achieve optimal flexibility.
- ❌ Pigskin leather may be less resistant to abrasion in some situations.
Verdict: These are premium gloves for serious welders. They offer excellent heat resistance, durability, and comfort, making them a worthwhile investment if you weld regularly and need top-notch protection. If you’re a pro, these are worth the splurge.
5. Steiner 21913 Welding Gloves
The Steiner 21913 Welding Gloves are designed for welders who need extended cuff protection. They’re made from side split cowhide and feature a long gauntlet to protect your forearms from sparks and heat. These are great if you’re working in positions where sparks are likely to fly up your sleeves.
Pros:
- ✅ Extended cuff provides excellent forearm protection.
- ✅ Durable side split cowhide leather offers good heat resistance.
- ✅ Suitable for welders with larger hands or those who prefer a looser fit.
Cons:
- ❌ Dexterity may be slightly reduced due to the longer cuff.
- ❌ Can feel bulky in confined spaces.
- ❌ May not be necessary for all welding applications.
Verdict: If you need maximum forearm protection, the Steiner 21913 gloves are a great choice. They’re especially useful for overhead welding or working in environments with a lot of sparks. Just be aware that the extended cuff might limit your movement in tight spots.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right stick welding gloves involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Material: Leather is the most common material for welding gloves. Cowhide is durable and heat-resistant, while pigskin offers better dexterity.
- Thickness: Thicker leather provides better heat protection but can reduce dexterity. Consider the type of welding you’ll be doing and choose a thickness that balances protection and flexibility.
- Cuff Length: Longer cuffs offer more forearm protection. Choose a cuff length that suits your welding style and the types of projects you typically work on.
- Fit: Gloves should fit snugly but not too tightly. You need to be able to move your fingers freely to manipulate your welding equipment.
- Stitching: Look for gloves with Kevlar or other heat-resistant stitching. This will help prevent the seams from burning through.
FAQs
Q: How often should I replace my welding gloves?
A: It depends on how often you weld and the conditions you work in. Inspect your gloves regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as holes, burns, or frayed stitching. Replace them as soon as you notice any damage that could compromise your protection.
Q: Can I wash my welding gloves?
A: It’s generally not recommended to wash leather welding gloves. Washing can damage the leather and reduce its protective properties. Instead, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Q: What’s the difference between MIG and stick welding gloves?
A: Stick welding gloves are typically thicker and offer more heat protection than MIG welding gloves. This is because stick welding generates more heat and sparks. MIG welding gloves prioritize dexterity for precise wire feeding.
Q: How important is insulation in welding gloves?
A: Insulation is crucial for protecting your hands from heat fatigue during extended welding sessions. Look for gloves with a lining made of wool, cotton, or other insulating materials.
Conclusion
Choosing the best stick welding gloves is essential for safety and comfort. Consider your welding style, the types of projects you work on, and your budget when making your decision. A good pair of gloves will protect your hands from heat and sparks, while also providing the dexterity you need to perform precise welding tasks. I hope this guide has helped you find the perfect pair for your needs. Happy welding!
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