Usually, welding arc will emit intense UV & IR radiation while welding, in which its exposure results in sunburn or skin cancer. The welding jacket is made with fire-resistant and thermally insulating materials which thereby protects the body and clothing. Choosing a low-quality product will leave you at the risk of personal injury to sweaty discomfort. So, to choose a comfortable and safe welding jacket, we suggest considering the below key factors.
Material: There are various types of materials like leather, cotton, denim, carbon fiber, nylon, cowhide, and rubber used to make this jacket, either individually or in combination. Among various materials, the best-rated material is the mix of leather and cotton jacket, as it offers both safety and comfort while welding. Size: The welding jackets come in various sizes that range from small to extra-large (up to 5XL) to suit everyone. All you need is to find the right size to perform welding tasks comfortably and safely. For this, measure the size of the chest and sleeves area with tape, and then compare the measurements with our standard sizing chart to find your right size. Weight: The weight of the jacket depends mostly on its construction material. Among various materials, the leather jacket is a bit heavier to wear yet offers better protection. While a cotton one is lightweight & breathable but won’t offer the best protection. So, the combination of both cotton and leather will ensure better protection, and comfort along with being lightweight to wear for a longer time.
However, there are various factors to consider when buying a welding jacket, which we explained in detail in our “Ultimate Buying Guide”. Also, we do a lot of research on most welding jacket models and came up with a list of the best welding jackets, which are a perfect blend of safety, quality, and comfort at a reasonable price.
Best Welding Jackets
7 Best Welding Jackets Reviews
1. Lincoln Electric Welding Jacket
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The Lincoln Electric is leading manufacturer of welding equipment like Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This K3106 – 2XL welding jacket is an excellent jacket that comes with durable full leather sleeves, which is made with high grade split cowhide to provide protection against the heat, sparks and spatter. It allows free flowing arm movement along with withstanding the heavy friction and abrasion (not done by cotton sleeved jacket). The body of the jacket is made with breathable premium 9 oz flame retardant (FR) cotton that self-extinguishes when exposed to fire, flames or sparks. The anti-static and anti-mildew coating of the fabric will provide protection and longevity. The chrome plated metal snaps in each of the adjustable cuffs will protect the forearm and wrist from heat, sparks and spatter. The flip up collar of this jacket will protect the neck from sparks, arc rays and spatter while welding. One can find a large inside pocket used for protected internal storage. It is a versatile jacket that can be used in all welding positions and process. The double stitched seams of the jacket will enhance its durability and prevent it from rips and tears. All these features will make it used by professional fabricators regularly. It is suitable for chest size of 50 – 54 inches and sleeves of about 34 inches. The available sizes are from medium to 3XL. Product Information:
Material – Cotton (body material), Cowhide Leather (sleeves) Color – Black Size – XXL Torso Length – 30 inches Welding Positions – All Positions Welding & Cutting Process – Stick, MIG, Flux-Core, TIG, Plasma Cutting, Oxyfuel Cutting. Weight – 2.4 pounds Dimensions – 6 X 1 X 1 inches Machine Washable – No
Things we liked:
It is lightweight, durable and comfortable to wear. Value for money This welding coat is made with flame retardant cotton body with full leather sleeves to provide a full protection over the heat / fire / sparks. It allows you for free-flowing mobility to perform your work effectively. It is trusted and used by professionals.
Things we didn’t like:
Somewhat uncomfortable to wear in hot weather. Not suitable for heavy metal or aluminum work.
2. Miller Electric Welding Jacket
Miller Electric is a well-known brand for manufacturing best welding jackets. This 2241909-welding jacket comes with a composition of 88% cotton and 12% nylon that offers lightweight, durability, and high level of protection while welding. It is considered as the best jacket for hot weathers. The combination of these materials will make it perfect to wear over the summer clothes without make you feel hot or uncomfortable. It allows you to have a continuous working with great ease and comfort without any breaks. The high neck collar and good arm fit up to wrists will protect you from the fire / heat / sparks while welding. The material of this coat won’t protect while working with highly intense sparks and may damage the jacket but won’t the body. It comes with features like high stand-up collar, snug fit wrists and interior pocket to store all the must have stuff. Product Information:
Material – Cotton (88%) & Nylon (12%) Weight – 1.5 pounds Size – XL Color – Navy Blue Dimensions – 14.4 X 12.4 X 1.2 inches Chest Size – 50 inches Torso Length – 30 inches Sleeve Length – 34 inches Closure Type – Snap Button
Things we liked:
Perfect to wear for in hot summers, even for a longer time. Comes in fold-in snaps cuff style and snap button closure type. Value for money Lightweight and breathable Shields clothes and skin effectively. Suits perfect for small welding tasks.
Things we didn’t like:
Suitable to wear while training to weld or irregular welder but not suitable for heavy welding jobs. Lacks in durability.
3. Black Stallion Welding Jacket
The Black Stallion is one of the best manufacturers of high-quality welding jackets in the market. This FN9 – 30C model comes with all essential features and better construction that helps the welder to use it more comfortably. It is made with 9 oz. flame resistant (FR) breathable cotton that makes it lightweight, durable and flexible to wear and move around. The welder’s collar will provide an enhanced neck protection. The 6 convenient snap buttons that includes collar button will comes with leather reinforcement. The scribe pocket will hold welding pencils, paint makers and soapstone whereas the inside pocket to hold and secure small items safely while welding. Product Information:
Material – FR Cotton Size – Large Color – Navy Weight – 1.35 pounds Dimensions – 6 X 1 X 1 inches Torso Length – 30 inches
Things we liked:
It provides reliable protection for light welding tasks. Comes with scribe pocket, inside pockets, front closure and snap wrists. The collar will provide enhanced neck protection. Works best for light welding jobs. It looks attractive with navy color and available in various sizes that range from small to 5XL.
Things we didn’t like:
Not suitable for medium or heavy welding tasks. The heat resistant quality is not up to the mark.
4. Bsx Gear Welding Jacket
The BSX is one of the best welding equipment manufacturing company that produce jackets meeting all the safety for high safety and visibility. This BX9C model is a most affordable jacket used for welding purposes. It is specially designed to provide comfort and convenience to the welder and thereby allows for the free mobility of the user while performing the welding tasks. So, the welder can free to work with this 9 oz flame-resistant cotton welding jacket. The collar with extended length coverage, adjustable cuff, scribe pockets and waist straps will ensure maximum coverage of the body like neck, wrists and hands and thereby ensures the safety and protection against sparks, heat, fire and other dangerous rays. It is lightweight, durable and flexible and looks stylish with black color with red trim and flames. It is not suitable for the heavy-duty welding tasks in a colder climate. Product Information:
Material – Cotton Size – XL Dimensions – 10 X 16 X 1.5 inches Weight – 1.5 pounds Chest Size – 45 to 49 inches Torso Length – 36 inches
Things we liked:
Lightweight, durable and flexible which allows you to carry with ease. Affordable and value for money. Cover maximum body area to provide safety and protection. Designed to provide comfort and coolness to the user. The welder’s collar will protect you from sparks while welding.
Things we didn’t like:
Not suitable to use in colder climates and for performing heavy welding tasks. The flame-resistant quality of the material is not up to the mark.
5. Qeelink Welding Jacket
QeeLink is specialized in producing various leather products with best quality. This welding Jackets are made with thick leather to provide maximum durability, comfort and lasts longer. This full coverage jacket is made with heat and flame-resistant heavy-duty split cowhide leather to provide superior protection while you’re welding. It is sewn with US Kevlar thread (stitched on both sides) that gives maximum strength and durability to the jacket. The inside pocket and soapstone pocket on each sleeve will provide extra storage for tools & cell phone. The adjustable collar allows you to use it either as stand up collar for comfort and security (or) fully cover will protect your neck effectively. The buttons of this jacket are made with premium heavy weight heat resistant metal. It is a multi-function jacket that not only meant to use for welding but also it is ideal to use for blacksmithing, shipyards, steel mills, automotive, torch work, manufacturing, gas welding, wood working, etc. Product Information:
Material – Cowhide Leather Color – Orange Size – 3 XL Chest Size – 57 inches Torso Length – 37 inches Weight – 3.5 pounds
Things we liked:
It is soft, durable and flexible jacket. Suitable for heavy-duty welding tasks. Made with thick, durable split cowhide leather with stylish and simple design. Value for money The built quality will make it last longer The reinforced buttons along the sleeves, front and at collar to make it easy to wear and adjust as pre the user’s convenience.
Things we didn’t like:
However, it is made with leather that makes it uncomfortable to use in hot (extreme heat in summer). The quality of the material / buttons is not up to the mark.
6. Leaseek Leather Welding Jacket
Leaseek manufactures reliable welding safety equipment including jackets, aprons, gloves, and spats. This welding jacket is made of cowhide leather that has heat and flame-resistant properties. The jacket comes in brown color with a chic design style It is not limited to be used for welding but also can be worn during other machining tasks including blacksmithing, torch work, woodworking, and automotive repairing. It also has a unique open back design that helps you stay cool when you are working in warm environments. The leather welding jacket is stitched with US Kevlar heat-resistant thread for added durability. Even when the sparks and spats fall on the jacket, it does not leave any marks. The buttons are made of premium heavy-weight metal so they don’t wear out easily. There are two pockets, one on each sleeve for keeping tools conveniently when you are welding. Product Information
Material – Cowhide leather Color – Brown Size – Available in multiple sizes Weight – 3.11 lbs
Things we liked
Made of cowhide leather with heat and flame-resistant properties US Kevlar heat-resistant threads for added durability Open back design helps you stay cool in warm environments Buttons made of premium heavy-weight metals Pocket on each sleeve for carrying tools
Things we didn’t like
The jacket produces a heavy cowhide smell when you open the package Buttons comes off of the jacket if you rough handle them
7. Revco Welding Jacket
To reach the new level of innovation, this Revco BSX contoured flame-resistant cotton welding jacket. This modern designed jacket will create a better looking, fitting and comfortable protective garment. It comes with royal blue and black with blue flames. It is made with 9 oz breathable cotton material and have various features like welder’s collar, dual scribe and inside pockets, extended length front coverage and adjustable waist straps. Product Information:
Size – 2XL Material – Cotton Color – Blue Weight – 1.85 pounds Dimensions – 6 X 1 X 1 inches
Things we liked:
It comes with royal blue containing contrasting flame graphics. It has convenient snap front and wrists – adjustable waist straps. Made with high quality cotton material to resist flame / fires. It is lightweight, durable and comfortable to wear.
Things we didn’t like:
The quality of the material is not up to the mark. A little bit pricey product.
How to Choose the Best Welding Jacket:
A welding jacket act as a protective gear to protect your skin and keep you safe from various risks associated with the welding process (like heat or flying hot metal pieces). To grab the best and most suited one, here are some of the must to consider features while shopping for the welding jacket.
1. Materials:
There are different types of materials used by the manufacturers to make these welding jackets. Since they vary in structure, insulation, and composition levels, and thereby won’t offer the same quality and comfort. However, one should pick the right welding coat having a proper balance of affordability, protection, and durability. Here is the list of materials that are most preferred in making welding jackets.
Cotton –
It is the most popular material for its features like lightweight, breathable, flexible, and durable. It can also be combined with leather, nylon, and fibers to make it extra durable and last longer. Usually, cotton is a flammable material, in which the jacket should be flame-resistant. It is perfect for hobby welders and light projects.
Nylon –
A synthetic fabric that is lightweight, strong, durable, and stretchable, which makes it suitable to use in protective gear. With its chains of amide molecules, nylon clothing is machine-washable and has a low moisture absorbency. Mostly, they are water-resistant, fire-retardant, have zero porosity, and won’t be prone to tears and gashes.
Leather –
It is a durable material that exhibits thermal and fire-resistance properties. They can be either top grain or split grain. It is often mixed with cotton to enhance flexibility and durability in the coat. It is suitable to use for high amperage welding with lots of heat to protect the user. Here split-grain leather protects you from sparks and spatters, in which cowhide and boarhide (thinner & lighter) are popular types of leather welding jackets.
Cowhide –
It is a type of leather that offers flexibility, strength, durability, and breathability. They won’t crack easily like other leather types. This fabric leather is resistant to moisture, punctures, and heat, which makes it best for welding jackets (key PPE features).
Kevlar and Nylon –
The combination of nylon and Kevlar will work well in preventing skin burns. This composition is used for heavy-duty and industrial welding applications, where optimal flexibility, protection, and breathability is considered to require extensive burn protection.
Carbon Fiber –
They are stiffer and has high-temperature resistance. So, this type of material won’t be used solely to make jackets due to its less flexibility. But can be made with the combination of other materials with carbon fiber lining.
Rubber –
It is not solely used to make jackets. It has to be fused/incorporated with other materials and works well for welding projects that involve heavy splatters.
Demin –
It is perfect for making a jacket where the welding job won’t involve a lot of splatters (low-splatter conditions). It is the least protective material than any other material that won’t last long, especially while dealing with more work-intensive projects. This means it is ideal for occasional welders.
2. Right Size of the Welding Jacket:
Welding jackets come in a variety of standard sizes like small, medium, large, and extra-large. Though picking the right size is a bit difficult, yet it is essential to perform welding tasks effectively, and safely. So, one has to measure the size of the chest by wrapping a tape comfortably around the upper body, as it affects the wearability, comfort, and protective functioning of the garment. If your belly is larger than your chest, then measure around the stomach area. Ensure not to wrap the tape too tight around the body. If you want, you can measure while wearing the regular work attire without pressing tight into the skin that constrict the breathing. After measuring, compare it with the below sizing chart to get the correct size of the welding jacket. It is suitable for welding needs without restricting your movement, and the arms should be covered completely. However, having an adjustable cuff and waist straps will let you adjust the jacket to fit properly. Wearing a jacket with lining will let slide on/off easily and make it more comfortable. Here is the standard sizing chart that help you to find your right size. Size Chart: For instance, compared to TIG welding, the Stick and MIG welding types generate more heat, and thereby need more protection while welding. For this, the cotton jackets with flame retardant will work great, yet only suits for low-medium grinding and amperage jobs and won’t be used for heavy stick welding. While for heavy stick & MIG welding, wearing leather will protect the user. Most welders possess two different types of welding jackets to use for every application – a comfortable, lightweight jacket for lighter applications, whereas a heavy-duty leather jacket for applications where extra power and protection is required.
4. Welding Environment:
The weather conditions of the work location are essential to consider while buying a welding jacket. Since the temperature will affect the welding coat and may restrict you to work comfortably and safely. Also, select the jacket which offers ample protection without overheating or losing breathability. For instance, one should not get a compromise on the fabric thickness while doing welding in a cold climate for full-body protection (with some insulation). If working in a hot climate, then look for a high-end/premium model featuring temperature control options, breathable materials, and moisture-wicking. It helps you to prevent sweat accumulation and work comfortably without any irritation. So, choose a thicker material while living/working in cold climates, whereas picking a thinner fabric coat that offers the same level of protection while working in a warmer environment.
5. Spatter and Heat Resistance:
The main purpose of wearing a welding jacket is to get protection from heat, sparks, flames, and welding spatters, yet there are varying levels of protection with every jacket. If you are doing stick welding or overhead welding, where they produce a lot of spatters or has a lot of residual mess, then it’s better to pick a leather jacket. If it is summer (or) you are concerned about its weight/heaviness, then go for flame-resistant cotton (or) a mix of cotton and leather jacket. Since cotton doesn’t offer protection as leather, but it will be lighter and offer some protection against spatter and heat resistance.
6. Weight:
The weight of the welding jacket depends mostly on the type of its construction material. Among various types of materials, cotton is considered lightweight and breathable, yet not the best protective option. While a leather jacket is a bit heavier weight to wear but shield better protection. So, if you pick a jacket made with a combination of leather and cotton, then it ensures better protection and is lighter to wear for a longer time.
7. Fasteners:
There are various ways to secure up the jackets, including velcro, buttons, zips, and snap buttons. Among them, use of snap buttons is one of the effective and popular ways to seal the welding coat.
8. Stand Up Collar:
This collar offers all-round protection, especially by protecting the user’s neck from radiation or sparks. If looking to purchase a jacket with this stand-up collar, then ensure it won’t be too high, as it may cause uneasiness and result in leaving it open. Thus, adjustable collars are considered the best, if the collar is not adjustable or too loose, then it may wind up with sparks on your neck, while if it is too tight, then it will be uncomfortable to wear.
9. Comfort:
It is always suggested to buy one size larger than your normal size, why because these jackets seem snug fit, yet in summer, they may result in causing unwanted stress. But ensure that not to take a jacket that is too big to wear. Here, the lining of the coat is an addition to the comfort levels. As some jackets feel like a coat you weld in, while others come with softer padding and satin lining, which gives luxurious look.
10. Durability:
If you are a professional who uses the welding jacket continuously to prevent the sparks attack, then ensure to pick a durable jacket. For this, look for a product from trusted brands, instead of purchasing a cheap thin cotton jacket. Few jackets are sprayed and treated with anti-mildew and anti-static spray along with fire resistance to last longer and offer value for money. Stitching is another thing to check for its durability. Kevlar thread offers heat resistant and the seams will not be burnt open. Also, triple stitching will prevent them from falling apart. However, high-grade leather will last longer, but if not stitched properly, it won’t last long without replacing or repairing. So, it is essential to take proper care and regular maintenance to prolong/extend the lifespan of the jacket. While extreme exposure to weather conditions like high temperatures, dust, and other debris, which reduce its overall performance and longevity.
11. Style:
Are you looking for a jacket that works as a protective garment while welding and allow you to wear comfortably even while going outside? For this, leather coats are good to wear wherever you go (either outside or in the workplace). However, the style won’t be a big deal while choosing a welding jacket, but it adds a weightage to your decision.
12. Design:
The design of the jacket will let you know the quality, look, and feel. Its internal lining & cuff and collars will decide the feel of the jacket. The quality differs in the material used along with the stitching of the jacket. So, it is essential to pick a good looking and high-quality jacket offering a soft and comfortable feel that lasts longer without replacing them frequently.
13. Insulation:
This add-on feature is a protective layer that helps to protect you from heat, flumes, spatter, and sparks emitted during welding. Also, it protects you from cold climates by keeping you warm and comfortable to work. So, if you are living in colder areas, then consider this feature while buying a welding jacket.
14. Price:
The price of a given product depends on the type of material used for its construction along with other safety features. Among various types of jackets, leather is a bit expensive and then followed by a mix of leather and cotton. Based on your welding task, pick the material without compromising on the price. If you are an occasional user or dealing with smaller welding projects, then opt for lighter/low-cost options like cotton. If you are a professional welder dealing with larger welding projects, then look for a jacket having satin linings and Kevlar stitching. The high-end jackets are a bit expensive.
15. Brand:
Usually, a product from trusted brands is considered a better option that provides better quality, and more reliable customer support, which is quite useful, especially while having any issue with the product or its usage assistance.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Welding Jacket?
One should know the pros and cons of using a welding jacket before making its purchase. Take a look at some of the pros and cons mentioned. Pros:
Wearing this equipment will protect you from cuts, burns, and radiation and thereby shield your clothes and body entirely. It let you work with reliability and thus results in less likely to experience tiredness and fatigue. It offers a safer and risk-free working environment, which allows you to focus mainly on your welding task that enhances productivity and results in higher quality outcomes. The use of a highly breathable, cooler, and flexible jacket will allow you to have free movement of hands and arms and thereby aids in providing maximum comfort for a long time. To protect yourself from continuous exposure to a welding arc, which results in severe skin conditions, it is a must to wear the PPE welding jackets.
Cons: Thinking about the problems that arise by wearing this protective gear. Take a look at it.
Discomfort takes first place while considering its cons, as it restricts/limit the body movement (certain times) and thereby results in causing frustration/discomfort. If your work area is not having proper ventilation (or) air conditioning, then wearing this jacket may result in quick tiredness and discomfort, especially in hot climatic conditions. The use of stiff fabrics in the welding jacket (especially sleeves) will restrict the ability to perform precise work or quickly act when a problem arises.
Conclusion:
The welding jackets are important personal protection equipment for a welder. Finding the best one from numerous options will always a difficult task. If you’re unable to pick from the above list of products, then simply go with our expert’s advice. We pick Lincoln Electric Welding Jacket, as our first and best product. The reason is that it is made with a combination of cotton (body) and leather (sleeves), which is considered as the best combination for making jackets. It allows free flowing arm movement along with withstanding the heavy friction and abrasion. It is used in all welding positions and process. Hope you came to know how to choose the best welding jacket. Having any queries about its selection? Then feel free to share it with us, in the below comments box. Comment * Name * Email * Website
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