How to Choose the Right Welding Gloves: MIG vs. TIG

From MIG to Arc and TIG welding, there are many different types of welding in the industry. Likewise, there are appropriate types of welding gloves optimized for each type.


1. MIG Welding

MIG welding does not require the fine balance of dexterity and heat resistance like TIG welding. However, it produces a lot of thermal and radiant heat, which makes it difficult in finding the right MIG welding gloves. 

The most important factor to keep in mind when choosing the right MIG gloves is heat resistance. It is good to look for heavier, well-insulated gloves. You should also make sure that the seams are either Kevlar-stitched or covered with flame-retardant leather so that the heat particles will not creep in causing swift exposure to the fingers. 


Kamelo 915 MIG Welding Gloves







The second factor to look for is coverage. To ensure that your arms are protected as well, we suggest wearing sleeves on your forearms. 
Kamelo Leather Sleeves
Wearing sleeves will prevent burns caused by spatter or slag as well as exposure to UV radiation. It is important to keep yourself protected from UV radiation for it will burn your skin just like the UV-rays in sunlight. Long-term exposure to UV radiation can cause skin cancer. When choosing welding sleeves, make sure that the fabric can protect your skin completely by holding it up to the light. If you can see through it, then UV radiation can also penetrate it.

The last factor to keep in mind is its durability. You want to look for gloves that have added padding or stitching in the are between the thumb and forefinger to reduce wear. Choose split leather instead of grain leather for higher abrasion resistance.



2. TIG Welding

Since TIG welding requires more detail and coordination compared to MIG welding, it is important to find a pair with a snug fit that will allow for high range of hand motion. Leather is preferred for welding gloves because it can handle heat and not catch on fire easily. Leather with a soft feel such as pig or deerskin are suggested.

The second factor to look for when choosing the right TIG gloves is its thickness. Although TIG may not create as much heat as MIG or stick welding, heat can still build up. While you still want gloves that are thin enough to provide dexterity, you also want them to be thick enough to protect your hands from the heat.



It is also suggested to look for gloves made from goatskin which provide great durability as well as dexterity needed in TIG welding.

Lastly, arm sleeves as mentioned above are a great option as well to keep your forearms protected from possible burns caused by sparks.





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