Whether you are a seasoned welder or just starting you learn and gather essential items, you must know that protective gear is integral for a dangerous job like welding. During welding, you get exposed to hazardous levels of heat, molten metal, and fragments of hot metal, fumes, and other emissions that can cause severe damage if you are not careful and protected.
For that reason, one of the essential protective garments for welders is quality welding jackets, which are necessary irrespective of the welding type or technique you will use. Fortunately, plenty of great welding jackets are available online, which can make finding the right one for your needs a challenging task.
The fundamental function of a welding jacket or a coat is to protect your arms and body from hazardous elements created during welding procedures such as sparks, spatters, molten metal fragments, and more. As a welder, it is common for us to work in different conditions, in which the jacket will serve as a protection against high heat and temperature as well.
To help you identify a high-quality welding jacket or coat, we have assembled a list of the best welding jackets currently available. In this post, we share detailed reviews of each product featured on our list, complete with their pros, cons, and standout features.
We have also shared the top features to keep in mind in our buying guide. At the end of the post, you can also find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Top Features To Consider When Buying A Welding Jacket
Jacket Material
In our list of considerations when buying quality welding jackets, the material or combination of materials, the jacket has been manufactured with is most important. The fabric of the welding coat will determine its protective capabilities, price, and durability.
Nowadays, you can find protective welding jackets made from a variety of materials. The right welding coat will have the perfect balance of protection, affordability, and durability.
The following list of materials includes a few of the most commonly preferred welding jackets materials:
Leather
The most significant advantage of leather is its durability. Leather is also great at protecting you from fire and high temperatures. When looking at leather welding jackets, you will usually come across top-grain or split-grain leather. Some manufacturers combine leather with other materials like cotton to improve wearability and flexibility, which leather alone sometimes lacks.
Cotton
A common and popular choice for welding coats because it is flexible, lightweight, and versatile. Cotton is also one of the most comfortable materials to wear and work in.
Nylon
Known for its high durability, elasticity, and strength. Many professional welders and manufacturers prefer nylon because it lasts long, has excellent water, fire, and abrasion resistance, and is affordable.
There are jackets manufactured from rubber, denim, cowhide, Kevlar, and more available in the market.
Durability
Durability and the longevity of a welding jacket might be hard to figure out, but it is an important consideration when choosing one for yourself. There are a few factors that determine how long a welding coat of jacket will last. These include the quality of manufacturing, materials used, and how long it is worn in extreme conditions. Nonetheless, a coat should ideally last a minimum of two years; therefore, it is worth investing in a quality piece.
To further ensure that your welding jacket or coat lasts as long as possible, it is integral that you take care of it because proper maintenance can prolong the durability. However, keep in mind that extreme conditions, such as high heat will damage your garment more quickly.
Size
Like all clothing items, welding jackets come in a variety of standard sizes, including small, medium, and large. Getting the right size will impact the comfort, wearability, and the protective function of the garment. Use a tape measure to measure yourself loosely and follow the manufacturer’s sizing chart carefully. Be sure to measure the fullest part of your torso, which can be the chest or the stomach. We suggest that you wear your work clothes while taking measurements.
Whether you are buying your welding jacket online or from a brick and mortar store, be sure to consult the size chart supplied by the manufacturer. For online shopping, it is usually available in the description.
Welding Environment
Consider the conditions you will be welding in because factors like temperature will have a significant effect on the type of welding coat you will need to work in the environment safely and comfortably. Also, be mindful of the weather you will be welding in. Is the temperature going to be hot or cold?
If it’s going to be hot, go for breathable materials and moisture-wicking to prevent sweat accumulation. If your working environment is cold, then a jacket with some insulation from the weather will be best. Just be sure that the jacket you select provides ample protection from the dangerous emission from welding.
Using our concise buying guide, you will be able to identify a high-quality welding jacket that matches your specific needs. We also suggest checking out user reviews to get a better understanding of how well each item performs and its shortcomings so you can make an informed choice.
Reviews of The Best Welding Jackets of 2020
Our list of top welding jackets contains products from leading reputable brands and manufacturers. We have also included some less known products but show great promise in terms of quality and durability.
You will notice that our suggestions feature jackets of the most commonly used fabrics, including cotton, nylon, and various types of leather. While different materials offer varying degrees of protection, there are some advantages and disadvantages, each mentioned in our reviews.
We have given high importance to jackets and coats that are breathable, lightweight, easy to wear and work in, and durable with high protection levels. You will find welding jackets of different price ranges in our review.
1. Revco BSX Flame-Resistant Welding Jacket
If you wish to find the best welding jacket for shielding your clothes and skin, then the Revco welding jacket is an excellent option for you under $40. With Revco BSX offers added neck defense against sparks and spatter. It also features modifiable waist straps on the waist and cuffs for optimum comfort during long welding duty hours.
What I love about the Revco BSX Flame-Resistant Welding Jacket is that it is highly breathable, so it is excellent for hot working conditions. Although, this is not the best welding jacket option when it comes to heavy-duty welding, however, if need to find an affordable option for occasional welding sessions at home, Revco BSX Flame-Resistant Welding Jacket is a reliable choice.
Pros
- Lightweight, durable and flexible
- Covers maximum body area
- Good value for money
- Highly breathable material
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty welding
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2. Miller Electric Welding Jacket
Miller Electric Welding Jacket is the best cotton welding jacket under 100 that I have ever tried. Why? Because Miller is widely recognized for its durable welding protective gear and you will find the same extra-ordinary quality of Miller in this welding jacket.
Mainly designed for non-heavy-duty welding procedures, this Miller Electric Welding Jacket affordably priced and offers excellent protection against ultraviolet rays, sparks, splatters, and particles of molten metal. If you want the best welding jacket that provides both style and ample protection during home welding projects, then Miller Electric Welding Jacket is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Perfect for hot weather
- Lightweight and breathable
- Effectively shields skin and clothes
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Lacks in durability
3. Lincoln Electric Heavy Duty Leather Welding Jacket
Made of industrial split cowhide – Lincoln’s electric-powered leather-based welding jacket is excellently protective against spattering, high temperature, sparks, and molten metal. For added comfort, Lincoln Electric Heavy Duty Leather Welding Jacket features modifiable cuffs and neck protection
Lincoln is trusted for its fantastic, professional-quality designs. Thus, leather sleeves of this best leather jacket are ergonomically designed to allow flexible arm movement compared to other welding jacket models. The fire-resistant back is breathable, and you will also find inner pockets that are usually not available in most welding jackets.
Pros
- Lightweight, durable and comfortable
- Flame retardant cotton body
- Recommended by professionals
Cons
- Heavyweight jacket material
- Not suitable for hot working conditions
4. Revco Black Stallion Cotton Welding Jacket
Revco Black Stallion is hands down the best black stallion welding jacket that I have ever tried. It is one of the very few jackets that I have used for years and repeatedly recommended it to other home welders.
The Black Stallion is among the very best makers of high-quality welding jackets in the industry. This FN9 – 30C unit includes all essential features and excellent built-quality that ensures uncompromised safety during welding sessions. It’s made with nine oz. flame-resistant (FR) breathable cotton, which makes it lightweight, long-lasting, and easy to use and move around.
Pros
- Reliable protection for light welding tasks
- Added collar for enhanced neck protection
- Available in various sizes
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy or even medium welding tasks
5. Steiner Weldlite Plus Navy Cotton Welding Jacket
With a high-fashion design, this Steiner welding jacket both protective yet stylish. The body of the jacket made of cotton, while the sleeves are cowhide leather. Steiner welding jacket has non-reflective snaps in the front and a wrist closure mechanism for optimum comfort and protection. You will also find a huge inside pocket for keeping you wearing gear safe and protected.
Although Steiner Weldlite Plus Navy Cotton Welding Jacket might not be the most appropriate for colder conditions for some welders, however, I find this welding jacket perfect for all weather conditions.
Pros
- Suitable for both hot and cold weather
- Reliable built-quality
- Excellently comfortable
Cons
- Heat resistant quality is not up to the mark
Verdict
No doubt that welding jackets are essential personal safety gear for a welder. However, finding the best welding jacket that ticks all the boxes is a tough job. We hope this review + buying guide will help you find the best welding jacket that perfectly fits you and your requirements. Good luck! And don’t forget to share your review of your favorite welding jacket in the comments section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is it essential to wear a welding jacket?
Compromising on protective welding gear is never an option! It’s necessary to wear the best welding jacket to minimize the risk of any possible injuries and medical emergencies. A welding arc usually emits intense UV and IR radiation during the welding process; thus, exposure to this UV and IR radiation can lead to sunburn and also raise your chances of having skin cancer.
Therefore, opting not to wear welding protective clothing during welding procedures is strongly discouraged. The best welding jackets are fire-resistant and thermally insulated. So, wearing a protective coat will protect you from metal splatter and sparks produced during the welding process that will severely burn the skin.
How long do welding jackets last?
A few factors determine the longevity of a welding jacket, including essential elements like the type of the material, the quality of the fabric/leather, the working conditions, and the frequency of its use.
Another essential factor that contributes to the longevity of a welding jacket is how it is maintained. A reliable quality welding jacket, with proper care, will last more than 2.5 years to a lifetime, even with regular usage. Unnecessary exposure to dust, moisture, and heat will significantly reduce its lifespan.
What are the top considerations to remember while buying the best welding jacket?
Following are the top considerations you should never ignore while buying the best welding jacket:
- Durability
- Fire resistance
- Heat protection
- Thermal insulation
- Electrical resistance
- Ease of use
Is it alright to use a welding jacket for other purposes?
In the best-case scenario, no! It is not smart to use your welding jacket for other purposes because it can severely damage it’s quality and protection level. However, some people do wear their welding jackets for construction, woodworking, automotive work, and other tasks that can potentially damage the jacket.
Therefore, if possible, avoid wearing your best leather jacket for any other task but welding to ensure optimum protection during welding procedures.
Are welding jackets washable?
Some welding jackets can be washing in a washing machine with gentle detergents. However, most welding jackets only require to be cleaned by wiping or even brushing with natural leather oil.
It is necessary to follow the manufacturer’s directions to avoid causing any unnecessary damage to your best welding jacket.
How much does a welding jacket cost?
The quality of the product and the material used determines the price of the jacket. However, there are a few affordable, yet high-quality welding jackets in the market, including Revco BSX Flame-Resistant Welding Jacket. Depending on your specific requirements, expect a reliable quality welding jacket priced anywhere from $45 to $200.
