You strike an arc and sparks fly across your workbench. The heat pulses through your hands, and suddenly you feel it — the worn leather of your gloves no longer shields you from the flame.
That’s when you realize it’s time to buy new welding gloves. But where do you start? With hundreds of brands and stores, choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming.
Welding gloves aren’t just accessories; they’re safety gear that protects you from burns, sparks, and electric shock. This guide will help you find where to buy welding gloves and what to look for so you get comfort, durability, and safety in one.
Why You Need the Right Welding Gloves
Every welder knows that gloves aren’t one-size-fits-all. The gloves you use for MIG welding differ from those for TIG or stick welding.
MIG and stick welding generate intense heat and spatter, demanding thick, heat-resistant gloves. TIG welding, on the other hand, needs thinner gloves for better finger control and precision.
The right gloves protect your hands while letting you grip and move freely. Buying from a trusted source ensures your gloves meet ANSI and EN safety standards.
What to Look for Before Buying Welding Gloves
When shopping, never focus only on looks or brand names. Focus on function, fit, and material quality instead.
Check the leather type first. Cowhide and elk skin handle high heat well, while goatskin and deerskin offer flexibility for TIG welding.
Next, inspect the inner lining. A soft cotton or wool lining adds comfort during long sessions. Reinforced Kevlar stitching extends glove life by resisting heat and tears.
Always check the cuff length — longer cuffs protect your wrists and forearms from sparks and molten metal.
Finally, make sure the gloves are rated for your welding type and are labeled heat resistant or flame retardant.
Where to Buy Welding Gloves Online
Online stores offer variety and convenience. You can compare features, reviews, and prices before making a choice.
Here are the best online platforms:
1. Amazon
Amazon carries top welding brands like Lincoln Electric, Revco, Tillman, and RAPICCA. You can filter by welding type, size, and material, and check thousands of real user reviews.
2. Welders Supply Company
This specialized store offers gloves for all welding processes with clear descriptions and safety certifications. It’s a great place for professionals who value brand authenticity.
3. Baker’s Gas & Welding Supplies
Known for premium brands and bundle offers, Baker’s Gas provides detailed specs, heat ratings, and leather guides for different applications.
4. The Home Depot & Lowe’s
Both offer online and in-store purchase options, ideal for DIY welders looking for quick delivery or pickup.
5. eBay & Walmart
Good for budget shoppers, but always check seller ratings and verify product authenticity. Stick to top-rated sellers with detailed listings and return policies.
Where to Buy Welding Gloves Locally
If you prefer to feel the glove before buying, local stores are the way to go.
Hardware Stores: Visit major hardware retailers like Ace Hardware or True Value. You can test glove flexibility, comfort, and size in person.
Welding Supply Shops: Local welding distributors often carry professional-grade gloves and can advise which type suits your process best.
Industrial Safety Stores: Stores like Grainger or Fastenal specialize in protective equipment. They offer gloves meeting ANSI safety ratings and industrial standards.
Buying locally helps ensure you get a proper fit, and you can avoid shipping delays or wrong sizes.
Top Brands to Look for When Buying Welding Gloves
Some brands are trusted by professionals worldwide. Knowing them helps you buy confidently.
Lincoln Electric: Offers a full range for MIG, TIG, and Stick welding with strong insulation and precise fit.
John Tillman & Co.: Famous for premium leather quality, Kevlar stitching, and heavy-duty designs.
Revco / Black Stallion: Known for comfort, flexibility, and long cuff protection. Ideal for all-day welders.
RAPICCA: Affordable yet durable gloves popular among home welders and hobbyists.
Caiman: Ergonomic design and extra padding make them great for industrial settings.
Each brnd has its own size chart, so always check fit before purchasing.
How to Test Glove Quality Before Buying
If you’re shopping in person, check the stitching, lining, and seams carefully. Pull the glove gently — it should feel sturdy, not loose or weak.
Try closing your hand while wearing it. You should feel firm resistance but enough movement to handle tools comfortably.
Inspect the leather surface for uniform texture and color. Inferior gloves often show cracks or thin patches.
Finally, look for manufacturer labels showing compliance with EN407 or ANSI/ISEA 105 heat-resistance standards.
Price Range and Value Comparison
The cost depends on quality, brand, and purpose.
Entry-level gloves range from $10–$25, ideal for light work or short sessions. Mid-range gloves cost $25–$45, offering better comfort and heat protection.
Professional-grade gloves, built for industrial or continuous welding, start around $50–$80 and last longer with heavy use.
Remember, quality gloves reduce hand fatigue and prevent burns, saving more in the long run.
How to Maintain Welding Gloves After Purchase
Even the best gloves wear out fast without proper care.
Always let your gloves dry naturally — never near a flame or heater. Excessive heat stiffens leather and causes cracks.
Brush off debris after every session, and if gloves get greasy, wipe them with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking them in water.
Store them in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight or metal dust. Proper maintenance can double their lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular leather gloves for welding?
No, only welding-rated gloves protect against heat, UV, and molten spatter.
Are welding gloves heatproof or heat resistant?
They are heat resistant, not completely heatproof. Proper fit and technique still matter.
Can I wash welding gloves?
Avoid machine washing. Use a damp cloth and air-dry them away from heat.
How long do welding gloves last?
With moderate use and good care, quality gloves last six months to a year.
Which gloves are best for beginners?
RAPICCA or Lincoln Electric gloves offer great protection and comfort at a fair price.
Conclusion
Finding where to buy welding gloves is about more than picking a store — it’s about choosing protection that fits your hands and your work.
Whether you buy online from Amazon or locally at a welding supply shop, check the glove’s leather, stitching, safety rating, and comfort. Quality gloves not only prevent injury but also improve control and precision.
Invest in a pair that lasts, maintain them properly, and your hands will stay safe through every spark and every weld.
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
