When I’m in the shop, sparks flying and metal fusing, there’s one piece of gear I absolutely can’t compromise on: my stick welding gloves. I’ve tried countless pairs over the years, and I know firsthand that the best stick welding gloves offer that perfect blend of protection, comfort, and dexterity that lets you focus on your bead, not your burning hands. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into 10 top-rated options, giving you the lowdown on what makes each one stand out, so you can pick the right pair for your toughest welding challenges.
Contents
- Our Top 10 Best Stick Welding Gloves
- Revco 850L Flame Resistant Nomex Lined Elkskin Stick Welding Gloves
- Black Stallion 750 Premium Grain Elkskin Stick Welding Gloves
- 23.6″ Inch Long Welding Gloves, Sleeves Protective
- Welding Gloves Fire Heat Resistant: Blue 16IN 932℉ – (RAPICCA)
- Black Stallion Revco GM1611 Top Grain Leather Cowhide MIG/Stick Welding Gloves
- TOPDC Welding Gloves 14 Inches Fire/Heat Resistant Leather
- Slickman 820 Plus (XL)
- TOPDC Welding Gloves 16 Inches 932℉ Fire/Heat Resistant
- Lincoln Electric Traditional MIG/Stick Welding Gloves | 14″
- TICONN 16 Inch Welding Gloves, 1000°F Heat-Resistant
- Helpful Comparison Insights
- Final Verdict
- Best Stick Welding Gloves FAQ
- Q1: What material is best for stick welding gloves?
- Q2: How do I choose the right size for welding gloves?
- Q3: How often should I replace my stick welding gloves?
- Q4: Are thicker gloves always better for stick welding?
- Q5: Can I wash my stick welding gloves?
- Q6: What’s the difference between MIG and stick welding gloves?
Our Top 10 Best Stick Welding Gloves
Revco 850L Flame Resistant Nomex Lined Elkskin Stick Welding Gloves
These Revco 850L gloves are a testament to quality, crafted from robust elkskin leather and lined with Nomex for superior flame resistance. They offer excellent hand protection without sacrificing comfort, making them a solid choice for demanding stick welding tasks. The Nomex lining provides an extra layer of fire protection, crucial for prolonged exposure to heat and sparks, while the elkskin ensures durability.
Key features that stand out:
– Product type: Protective Glove
– Flame Resistant Nomex Lined: Enhances safety against extreme heat.
– Elkskin Construction: Offers durability and natural heat resistance.
– Robust Design: Built for demanding welding applications.
Pros:
– Excellent flame and heat resistance due to Nomex lining.
– Durable elkskin leather ensures a long lifespan.
– Provides good protection for stick welding.
Cons:
– Might feel a bit stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
Best for: Welders seeking high-level flame resistance and durability.
Expert Opinion: “The Revco 850L is a reliable choice for heavy-duty stick welding. The Nomex lining is a game-changer for safety in high-heat environments.”
Black Stallion 750 Premium Grain Elkskin Stick Welding Gloves
The Black Stallion 750 gloves are designed for the serious welder, offering premium protection and comfort. Made from grain elkskin leather, they provide natural insulation and a comfortable fit, while the Nomex-lined back adds crucial fire resistance. The reversed grain palm enhances grip and feel, making precise work easier, and the Kevlar stitching ensures they stand up to sparks and abrasion.
Key features that stand out:
– Premium Grain Elkskin Leather: Superior comfort and natural insulation.
– Dupont Nomex Lined Back: Extra fire-resistant protection.
– Reversed Grain Palm: Softer feel and improved grip.
– Thumb Strap: Reinforcement in a key stress area.
– Kevlar Stitching: Spark and abrasion resistance.
Pros:
– Exceptional comfort and grip for enhanced dexterity.
– High fire resistance from the Nomex lining.
– Durable construction with Kevlar stitching.
Cons:
– The premium features come at a higher price point.
Best for: Professionals prioritizing comfort, grip, and superior fire protection.
Expert Opinion: “For welders who spend hours with a torch, the Black Stallion 750 delivers. The comfort from the elkskin and grip from the reversed palm really make a difference.”
23.6″ Inch Long Welding Gloves, Sleeves Protective
These extra-long welding gloves are all about maximum coverage and protection. At an impressive 23.6 inches long, they fully cover your arms up to the cuff with full-grain split leather, shielding against extreme heat, sparks, and rough objects. They’re made from durable, puncture-resistant leather, featuring a cotton lining for sweat absorption and comfort, making them versatile for various demanding tasks beyond just welding.
Key features that stand out:
– 23.6 Inches Extra-Long: Provides extensive forearm and arm protection.
– Full-Grain Split Leather: Durable, puncture-resistant, heat-resistant, and flame-retardant.
– Cotton Lining: Absorbs sweat and increases comfort.
– Reinforced Wing-Shaped Thumbs: Enhances flexibility and grip.
– Multi-Purpose Use: Suitable for welding, barbecue, gardening, and more.
Pros:
– Unmatched arm protection against sparks and heat.
– Durable and heat-resistant full-grain leather construction.
– Comfortable cotton lining for sweat absorption.
Cons:
– The extreme length might feel a bit bulky for some users.
Best for: Welders needing extensive forearm protection and multi-purpose utility.
Expert Opinion: “If you’re dealing with serious spatter or need comprehensive arm coverage, these 23.6-inch gloves are fantastic. Their versatility makes them a great all-around shop glove too.”
Welding Gloves Fire Heat Resistant: Blue 16IN 932℉ – (RAPICCA)
The RAPICCA 16-inch welding gloves are engineered for extreme heat, boasting a fire and heat resistance of up to 932℉ (500℃). They feature a premium fireproof leather exterior, an insulating aluminum foil middle layer, and a soft flame-retardant cotton liner. With double leather-reinforced padding in critical areas and a 7.5-inch sleeve, these gloves offer superior protection and comfort for the most challenging welding and high-temperature tasks.
Key features that stand out:
– 932℉ (500℃) Heat Resistance: Extreme protection against high temperatures.
– Three-Layer Construction: Fireproof leather, aluminum foil, and flame-retardant cotton.
– 16-inch Extra-Long with 7.5-inch Sleeves: Superior forearm protection.
– Kevlar Stitching & Double Reinforcement: Unmatched durability at stress points.
– Soft Insulated Cotton Lining: Superior heat/cold resistance, sweat absorption, and breathability.
Pros:
– Outstanding heat resistance for severe conditions.
– Excellent forearm protection.
– Rugged construction with Kevlar stitching ensures longevity.
Cons:
– The thick multi-layer design might slightly reduce dexterity compared to thinner gloves.
Best for: Welders working in extremely high-temperature environments or needing robust protection.
Expert Opinion: “For serious heat, the RAPICCA gloves are hard to beat. The layered protection truly lives up to its 932℉ rating, giving you peace of mind during demanding jobs.”
Black Stallion Revco GM1611 Top Grain Leather Cowhide MIG/Stick Welding Gloves
While listed as MIG/Stick, the Black Stallion Revco GM1611 are robust enough for many stick welding applications, especially where a bit more dexterity is valued. Made from a combination of grain cowhide leather on the palm and split cowhide on the back, they offer a great balance of protection and feel. The soft cotton lining ensures comfort without being bulky, and strategic reinforcement patches mean these gloves are built to last.
Key features that stand out:
– Grain Cowhide Leather Palm: Offers durability and good feel.
– Split Cowhide Leather Back: Added protection.
– Soft Cotton Lining: Comfort without excessive bulk.
– Seamless Index Finger: Enhances dexterity and comfort.
– Reinforcement Patches: Strategic padding in palm, thumb, and index finger.
Pros:
– Good blend of protection and dexterity.
– Comfortable soft cotton lining.
– Reinforcements in high-wear areas extend glove life.
Cons:
– May not offer the same extreme heat resistance as specialized stick-only gloves for very intense applications.
Best for: Welders who need a good balance of dexterity and protection for stick and MIG welding.
Expert Opinion: “The GM1611 is a solid all-rounder. While it’s great for MIG, its cowhide construction and reinforcements make it surprisingly capable for many stick welding jobs where you don’t need extreme temperature resistance.”
TOPDC Welding Gloves 14 Inches Fire/Heat Resistant Leather
These TOPDC 14-inch welding gloves are designed for reliability, offering robust protection up to 482°F (250℃). They are crafted from 1.2mm thick natural cowhide leather and feature reinforced Kevlar and double leather stitching, ensuring extreme wear resistance. The soft insulated cotton lining provides comfort, sweat absorption, and breathability, making them suitable for long hours of welding or other high-temperature tasks.
Key features that stand out:
– 482°F (250℃) Heat Resistance: Reliable protection against heat and sparks.
– 1.2mm Thick Natural Cowhide Leather: Extreme wear, tear, puncture, and cut resistance.
– Reinforced Kevlar & Double Leather Stitching: Enhanced durability in stress areas.
– 100% Soft Insulated Cotton Lined Interior: Comfort, heat/cold resistance, and breathability.
– 14 Inches Long with 5.7 Inches Sleeve: Good forearm protection.
Pros:
– Excellent balance of heat and wear resistance.
– Comfortable lining for extended use.
– Durable construction with reinforced stitching.
Cons:
– Heat resistance is moderate compared to gloves designed for extreme 900F+ temperatures.
Best for: General stick welding tasks and various high-temperature applications.
Expert Opinion: “The TOPDC 14-inch gloves hit a sweet spot for general-purpose stick welding. They’re tough, comfortable, and offer good protection without being overly bulky.”
Slickman 820 Plus (XL)
The Slickman 820 Plus gloves are all about comfort and an exceptional fit, made with top quality full grain American elkskin. The elkskin is naturally soft, requiring no break-in period, which is a huge plus for immediate comfort and dexterity. Welted finger tips provide extra protection for the threads, extending the life of the glove. These are often praised for being one of the best-fitting gloves on the market.
Key features that stand out:
– Top Quality Full Grain American Elkskin: Premium material for comfort and durability.
– No Break-In Required: Soft and flexible from day one.
– Welted Finger Tips: Extra protection for stitching, enhancing longevity.
– Best Fitting Glove: Designed for superior comfort and dexterity.
Pros:
– Instant comfort and flexibility right out of the box.
– Premium elkskin offers excellent durability and heat resistance.
– Welted fingertips protect stitching from wear.
Cons:
– May come at a higher price due to the premium material and fit.
Best for: Welders who prioritize immediate comfort, dexterity, and a superior fit.
Expert Opinion: “When welders talk about ‘feeling’ their work, the Slickman 820 Plus comes to mind. The elkskin and fit are outstanding, letting you focus on the weld, not your hands.”
TOPDC Welding Gloves 16 Inches 932℉ Fire/Heat Resistant
These TOPDC 16-inch gloves are built for the toughest jobs, offering an impressive heat resistance of up to 932°F (500℃). Similar to their 14-inch counterpart but with enhanced protection, they feature reinforced Kevlar and double leather stitching across key areas. Made from 1.2mm thick natural cowhide leather, they provide extreme wear resistance, while the soft insulated cotton lining ensures comfort even during prolonged use in harsh environments.
Key features that stand out:
– 932°F (500℃) Extreme Heat Resistance: Protection against intense heat, flames, and spatter.
– Reinforced Kevlar & Double Leather Stitching: Enhanced durability on fingers, palms, elbows, and back.
– 1.2mm Thick 100% Natural Cowhide Leather: Extreme abrasion, tear, puncture, and oil resistance.
– 100% Soft Insulated Cotton Lined Interior: Superior heat/cold resistance, sweat absorption, and comfort.
– 16 Inches Extra Long with 7.5 Inches Sleeve: Comprehensive forearm protection.
Pros:
– Exceptional heat resistance for demanding applications.
– Robust construction for long-lasting durability.
– Comfortable for prolonged wear despite heavy protection.
Cons:
– The thick padding, while protective, can slightly limit fine motor skill dexterity.
Best for: Heavy-duty stick welding and extreme temperature tasks requiring maximum protection.
Expert Opinion: “If you’re going to be facing serious heat and spatter, these 932℉ TOPDC gloves are a fantastic option. The reinforced stitching and layered design truly hold up.”
Lincoln Electric Traditional MIG/Stick Welding Gloves | 14″
The Lincoln Electric Traditional gloves are a staple for many professionals, known for their industrial durability and reliable performance. Made from high-grade leather with a soft cotton liner, they are designed to withstand high temperatures and offer protection against flames and spatter. Kevlar threading and leather-reinforced stress points ensure these gloves can handle daily rigorous use, while the straight thumb design enhances comfort and fingertip sensitivity.
Key features that stand out:
– High-Grade Leather Exterior: Great heat resistance and durability.
– Kevlar Threading: Industrial durability against heat and abrasion.
– Leather Reinforced Stress Points: Longevity in high-wear areas.
– Soft Cotton Hand Liner & Twill Cotton Cuff Lining: Superior comfort and moisture absorption.
– Straight Thumb Design: Enhances comfort and fingertip sensitivity.
Pros:
– Reliable heat resistance and industrial durability.
– Good balance of protection and comfort.
– Trusted by professional fabricators.
Cons:
– Not designed for the absolute highest heat resistance, making them more general-purpose.
Best for: Professional fabricators and welders seeking dependable, durable gloves for everyday MIG and stick welding.
Expert Opinion: “Lincoln Electric is a name you can trust, and these gloves live up to that. They’re a solid, dependable choice that’s proven on the shop floor for daily stick welding.”
TICONN 16 Inch Welding Gloves, 1000°F Heat-Resistant
The TICONN 16-inch welding gloves push the boundaries of heat resistance, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1000°F (538°C). This is achieved through a thickened 3-layer construction: a 2.4mm heat-resistant cowhide leather outer layer, an insulating aluminum foil middle layer, and a soft flame-retardant cotton lining. Reinforced with heat-resistant Kevlar stitches at key stress points, these gloves offer unparalleled protection and durability, coupled with an adjustable elastic band for a secure fit.
Key features that stand out:
– 1000°F (538°C) Excellent Heat Resistance: Industry-leading protection against extreme temperatures.
– Thickened 3-Layer Construction: Cowhide, aluminum foil, and flame-retardant cotton for maximum insulation.
– Heat-Resistant Kevlar Stitches: Enhanced durability at key stress points.
– Double Leather Stitching: Greater tear and abrasion resistance on palm, fingers, and back.
– 16 Inches Extra-Long with 7.5 Inches Sleeves & Adjustable Elastic Cuff: Superior forearm protection and secure fit.
Pros:
– Highest heat resistance rating among reviewed gloves.
– Excellent wear resistance due to triple-layer and reinforced stitching.
– Comprehensive forearm protection with adjustable cuff.
Cons:
– The very thick construction means a notable trade-off in dexterity and flexibility.
Best for: Welders operating in the most extreme heat environments, such as foundries or forge work, where maximum heat protection is paramount.
Expert Opinion: “When you absolutely cannot compromise on heat protection, the TICONN 1000°F gloves are your go-to. They are serious gloves for serious heat, offering unmatched safety.”
Helpful Comparison Insights
When looking for the best stick welding gloves, material choice is paramount. Elkskin gloves like the Revco 850L and Black Stallion 750 often offer a great balance of comfort, flexibility, and natural heat resistance, making them excellent for all-day wear. Cowhide gloves, seen in options like the TOPDC and Lincoln Electric, tend to be more rugged and abrasion-resistant, often at a more accessible price point.
For extreme heat protection, layered designs truly shine. Gloves like the RAPICCA 16IN 932℉ and the TICONN 1000°F gloves incorporate multiple layers, including aluminum foil and thick flame-retardant linings, to achieve their impressive temperature ratings. However, this superior heat resistance often comes with a trade-off in dexterity, so consider your specific application.
Dexterity and comfort are crucial for precise stick welding. Gloves with softer linings, seamless index fingers (like the Black Stallion Revco GM1611), or premium leathers that require no break-in (Slickman 820 Plus) will generally offer better feel and less hand fatigue. Kevlar stitching is a common feature across many durable gloves, significantly improving their lifespan against sparks and abrasion.
Forearm protection varies widely. While standard gloves offer decent wrist coverage, options like the 23.6″ Inch Long Gloves and the 16-inch versions from RAPICCA and TOPDC provide extensive sleeves. These are ideal if you’re working in tight spaces where your forearms might be exposed to spatter or radiant heat.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best stick welding gloves truly boils down to balancing protection with practicality for your specific needs.
For the professional welder who values a superb blend of comfort, feel, and robust fire protection for daily work, the Black Stallion 750 Premium Grain Elkskin or the Slickman 820 Plus are hard to beat, offering excellent dexterity and durability.
If maximum heat resistance is your absolute top priority, especially for intense applications or forge work, the TICONN 16 Inch 1000°F or the RAPICCA 16IN 932℉ gloves offer unparalleled protection, albeit with a slight compromise on dexterity due to their robust layering.
For general-purpose stick welding where you need solid protection without breaking the bank, the TOPDC 14 Inches or the Lincoln Electric Traditional gloves provide dependable performance and durability. And if extensive arm coverage is crucial, the 23.6″ Inch Long Welding Gloves are in a league of their own.
Ultimately, invest in a pair that feels right for your hands and matches the intensity of your welding projects. Your hands will thank you!
Best Stick Welding Gloves FAQ
Q1: What material is best for stick welding gloves?
A1: The best stick welding gloves are typically made from sturdy leathers like cowhide, elkskin, or goatskin. Elkskin is favored for its softness, flexibility, and natural heat resistance, while cowhide offers excellent abrasion resistance and durability, often at a more budget-friendly price. Some gloves also incorporate special linings like Nomex for enhanced flame resistance.
Q2: How do I choose the right size for welding gloves?
A2: Proper sizing for welding safety gloves is crucial for both protection and dexterity. You want a snug fit that allows for full hand movement without being too tight or too loose. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts based on hand circumference or length. It’s often recommended to try gloves on if possible or measure carefully to ensure your fingers can reach the ends comfortably and you have a good grip.
Q3: How often should I replace my stick welding gloves?
A3: The lifespan of your welding protection gloves depends heavily on usage frequency and intensity. Inspect your gloves regularly for signs of wear like holes, tears, hardened leather, excessive charring, or damaged stitching. If you notice any significant degradation that compromises their protective capabilities, it’s time to replace them immediately to ensure continued welding safety.
Q4: Are thicker gloves always better for stick welding?
A4: Not necessarily. While thicker gloves generally offer more heat and abrasion resistance, they can also significantly reduce dexterity and feel, making precise work challenging. The best stick welding gloves strike a balance. For heavy-duty, high-amperage stick welding, thicker gloves (like those with 900F+ ratings) are advisable. For lighter work or situations requiring more finesse, a slightly thinner glove with good insulation and heat resistance might be preferable for better control.
Q5: Can I wash my stick welding gloves?
A5: Generally, it’s not recommended to machine wash leather welding gloves. Washing can strip the natural oils from the leather, causing it to stiffen, crack, and lose its protective properties and heat protection. For cleaning, it’s best to wipe them with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry away from direct heat. Some specialized leather cleaners or conditioners can help maintain their flexibility and prolong their life.
Q6: What’s the difference between MIG and stick welding gloves?
A6: Stick welding gloves are typically thicker and heavier, designed to withstand higher heat, more sparks, and spatter for extended periods. They prioritize robust heat resistance and protection. MIG welding gloves, while still protective, often emphasize greater flexibility and dexterity, as MIG welding usually produces less spatter and requires more precise manipulation of the welding gun. However, many “general-purpose” gloves can be suitable for both processes.
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