When it comes to welding, your gloves aren’t just accessories — they’re your first line of defense. Whether you’re laying down delicate TIG beads or burning heavy rod on a stick job, the right glove makes a massive difference in comfort, control, and safety. Tillman, one of the most trusted names in welding PPE, offers gloves tailored specifically for MIG, TIG, and Stick processes. But which model is right for your work?
Let’s break it down.
TIG Welding: Thin, Precise, and Flexible
TIG welding demands finesse, and that means your gloves need to offer maximum dexterity with minimal bulk. Tillman’s TIG gloves are crafted from premium materials like top-grain goatskin or kidskin leather, both known for their softness and flexibility.
Best Pick: Tillman 24C or 1338
- Material: Kidskin (24C) or Goatskin (1338)
- Why it works: Lightweight, form-fitting, and durable enough to take the heat while giving you fingertip control.
- Bonus: Some TIG models include a seamless forefinger for improved feel on the torch.
- Sale Unit: PAIR
- Brand: Tillman
- Glove Type: Welding Glove
- Welding Application: TIG
- Glove Material: Kevlar / Leather
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Goatskin
- superior feel and dexterity
- Reinforced thumb for added strength
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These gloves won’t last forever if you’re dragging filler rod or working in high-amp applications — but for clean, controlled TIG work, they’re ideal.
MIG Welding: Balance of Dexterity and Protection
MIG welding hits that middle ground. You need enough finger feel to control your gun and trigger, but more insulation than TIG gloves offer. Spatter is more common here, so longer cuffs and more heat resistance matter.
Best Pick: Tillman 42 or 48
- Material: Top-grain cowhide with cotton or fleece lining
- Why it works: Durable with added lining for spatter protection, while still flexible enough for wire-feed control.
- Bonus: The reinforced palm patch on some models adds grip and extends glove life.
- A top grain goatskin palm for best feel
- MIG Welding appliations
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Price For: Each Stitching Material: Kevlar(R) Grade of Leather: A Design: (2) Piece Back Item: Welding Gloves Size: L Color: Tan Cuff Material: Split Cowhide Leather Lining Material: Cotton/Foam Length: 12″ Cuff: 4″ Gauntlet Cut: Gunn Thumb Style: Reinforced Application: MIG Back Material: Grain Pigskin Palm Material: Pigskin
- Leather Palm Type: Top Grain Country of Origin (subject to change): Unknown
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These are workhorses—great for shop use, structural jobs, or fabrication tasks where comfort and toughness must coexist.
Stick Welding: Heat, Spatter, and Brutal Conditions
Stick welding is where gloves get put through hell — sparks flying, rods burning, slag popping. You need insulation, thick leather, and a long gauntlet cuff. Dexterity takes a back seat to safety and durability.
Best Pick: Tillman 750 or 850
- Material: Premium side-split cowhide or elk skin
- Why it works: High heat resistance, rugged build, and foam-lined backs for heavy-duty work.
- Bonus: Kevlar stitching on these gloves helps prevent seam blowouts under repeated thermal cycling.
- Reusable Welding Gloves: The gloves are reusable for multiple welding projects.
- Elk Skin Material: Made from premium elk skin material for durability and comfort.
- Lock Closure: The gloves feature a lock closure for secure fit.
- Adult Size: Designed in a large adult size to fit most welders.
- Welding Use: Specifically designed for welding projects and tasks.
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Tillman Large Pearl Gray 14″ Top Grain Elk Cotton/Foam Lined Welders Gloves With Straight Thumb, Stiff Cowhide Cuff, Welted Fingers, Kevlar Stitching And Pull Tab (Carded)
- John Tillman and Co
- John Tillman and Co – 750l
- Pull Tab – provides easy on/off and extra protection while dragging a welding gun. Straight Thumb – for best gun grip. Top Grain Elk Back and Palm – superior feel and performance
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These gloves are built to last, especially for welders working outdoors, in field repair, or on dirty, high-amperage stick jobs.
Choosing the Right Fit
When selecting gloves, don’t go by price or looks — go by process. Consider:
- Heat exposure: TIG runs cooler, Stick runs hot.
- Dexterity needs: TIG demands precision, Stick does not.
- Work duration: Longer sessions mean you’ll want gloves that stay comfortable.
Also, sizing matters. Too loose, and you’ll lose control. Too tight, and you’ll lose circulation — and feel every arc pulse.
Final Thoughts
Tillman has been a staple in welding PPE for a reason — their gloves are purpose-built for the demands of each welding process. Choosing the right pair isn’t just about comfort — it’s about staying safe, welding better, and protecting your hands for the long haul. Stay safe, weld strong.
If you’re ready to gear up, we’ve linked our recommended Tillman gloves for each welding process below.
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