What are welding gloves?
Welding gloves are PPE designed to protect hands and wrists from heat, sparks, spatter, UV/IR, and abrasion during metal fabrication. Our Ironclad® selection includes cowhide, goatskin, deerskin, and elk leather models with Kevlar® stitching and heat shields—optimized for MIG and Stick welding, cutting, and prep work.
Which welding gloves should I use for MIG vs. Stick?
- MIG welding gloves: Balanced heat protection and dexterity. Usually medium-weight leather with padded backs, good fingertip feel for gun control and wire trimming.
- Stick (SMAW) gloves: Heavier build for higher radiant and contact heat. Thicker leather, longer cuffs, and extra insulation for slag and spatter.
How do I choose the right size and fit?
- Measure hand circumference around the knuckles (dominant hand), then compare to the sizing chart below.
- Aim for a snug palm with free finger movement—too loose reduces control; too tight increases hand fatigue.
- Check cuff length for your jacket/sleeve overlap (common lengths: 4–6 in.).
Welding glove materials, what’s the difference?
- Cowhide: Durable all-around choice; good heat and abrasion resistance.
- Goatskin: Softer with excellent dexterity; great for MIG control and detail work.
- Deerskin/Elk: Supple feel with strong heat comfort; popular for extended wear.
- Linings & stitch: Fleece/foam linings improve heat comfort; Kevlar® thread resists heat and abrasion at seams.
Heat protection levels & standards
Look for gloves tested to common hand-protection standards (e.g., heat/contact ratings and cut/abrasion performance). Choose heavier builds for high-amp stick welding and lighter, more agile builds for lower-amp MIG, tacking, and fitting.
Care, cleaning & lifespan
- Brush off slag/spatter; allow gloves to cool before storage.
- Wipe with damp cloth; avoid harsh solvents that can dry out leather.
- Store dry and flat, away from direct heat; replace when hardened, cracked, or when seams wear through.
FAQs: Welding Gloves
What size welding glove am I?
Use the sizing chart below to match your hand circumference to the correct size. If between sizes, consider your use: tighter for precision, looser for heavy heat.
Can I use one glove style for both MIG and Stick?
Yes, many welders pick a mid-weight MIG glove as an all-rounder. For high-amp Stick or long bead runs, a heavier Stick glove usually offers better comfort and heat margin.
Which cuff length should I choose?
Choose longer cuffs (5–6 in.) if you regularly weld overhead or deal with heavy spatter. Standard cuffs (4 in.) work well for general bench work.
Useful Links:
- Ironclad Gloves Sizing Chart
- EXO2 MIG Welder Gloves Cutsheet
- EXO2 MIG Welder Grain Leather Welding Gloves
- MIG Welder Gloves Cutsheet
- Stick Welder Gloves Cutsheet
Related PPE
- Welding helmets and auto-darkening filters
- Welding glasses and face shields
- Respirators and earmuffs
- Welding jackets, sleeves, and aprons