- Your hands are protected with welding gloves, but what about your arms, chest, and torso?
- You need a welding shirt that can withstand the risks associated with welding. We have been looking for the best welding shirts across various sites and have finally compiled a list of the 10 best welding shirts. Our reviews are based on customer ratings, user experience, and extensive research. Here’s what you need to know about welding shirts:
FR-resistant Shirts: The first thing you need to look at is an “FR” tag on the shirt. The “FR” tag or flame resistance tag means the shirt has passed safety tests and it meets the safety standards set by safety authorities. Without the FR tag it’s not safe to be called a welding shirt. ATPV Rating: ATPV stands for Arc Thermal Protection Value. ATPV is the amount of heat resistance capacity of a garment to prevent a second-degree burn which is measured in calories per centimeter square. It is based on the total weight of the garment. Look for an ATPV rating of at least 7 cal/cm2 to ensure the shirt can protect against fire hazards. Fabric and Construction: Choose pure cotton shirts or cotton twill. Never wear shirts made of synthetic or synthetic blends like polyester or polyester blends. Look for long sleeves with multiple adjustable cuff fasteners, Nomex thread stitching, and flaps on pockets. Look for quality buttons that are not made of plastic and shirts with long tails so that they stay tucked in.
These are the three primary factors that you need to keep in mind while shopping for welding shirts. We also provided a full “Buying Guide” on selecting the best welding shirt. So, do check that out.
Best Welding Shirts Index Table
Best Welding Shirts Reviews
1. Titicaca Welding Shirts
Titicaca flame resistant work shirts come in sizes small to 5X large which is a huge range to choose from and you are more likely to find your perfect fit. The flame-resistant shirt comes with a clear FR tag on the sleeves and small tag on the front pocket, which shows NFPA 2112 and CAT 2 certification. It’s made from 7.5 oz of cotton twill. It’s cut from a 100% cotton fabric treated for fire resistance. We love the extra long tail for keeping it tugged in. It also features FR-treated snap closure, and an adjustable calf design. You will get two large pockets at the front with pen slots which is great. Titicaca flame-resistant garments meet the standards set by ASTM 1506 which makes it acceptable for use in industrial workshops regulated by OSHA. It’s also HRC2, Arc ATPV rated 9.2 cal/cm2. It’s pre-shrunk and wrinkle free and it’s machine washable. It’s available in 11 color options. You can choose the solid color ones or the checked ones. A few customers have reported that the shirt runs one size larger, which is common for welding shirts. If you want the right fit we suggest going for one size smaller. Best Features:
Made from 5 oz of cotton twill NFPA 2112 and CAT 2 certified ATPV rated 9.2 cal/cm2 Pre-shrunk and wrinkle free Machine washable Two large pockets at front Size: small to 5X large 11 color options
Pros:
Excellent quality Breathable and comfortable ATPV 9.2 cal/cm2 rated Affordable
Cons:
Some color variants have buttons instead of snaps
2. BOCOMAL Welding Shirts
Made of 6.25 oz FR treated cotton twill the BOCOMAL is a lightweight, breathable shirt that is great for summer wear. While there’s no shirt that can keep you nice and cool in the heat during welding, this can at least make it more breakable. They are 100% cotton and machine washable means easy to maintain. The BOCOMAL flame-resistant shirts feature an Arc ATPV rating of 8.2 cal/cm2 which is excellent for a 6.25 oz fabric. The shirt has enough room which allows more space to work around. It features 4 snap-adjustable cuffs and a big long length to tuck behind your pants. These are pre-shrunk and pre-washed and completely wrinkle-free. It has a clear FR tag on the sleeve and the left-side front pocket. It meets NFPA 2112 standards and ASTM F1506 plus CAT II requirements. The product has amazing ratings on amazon, but a few people have reported that it runs a size smaller while others said it fits perfectly. While there’s no warranty, the brand offers a 100% refund if you ask for a return. Best Features:
Made of 6.25 oz FR treated cotton twill NFPA 2112 rated Cat II rated ATPV rating of 8.2 cal/cm2 Size: small to 5X large Machine washable Adjustable snaps on the cuffs
Pros:
Great for summer wear Lightweight and breathable ATPV rating of 8.2 cal/cm2 Variety of size options
Cons:
Runs a size smaller
3. Ur Shield Welding Shirts
If you are looking for a budget welding shirt, you can definitely consider Ur Sheild welding shirts. These are made of 8.1 oz of fire-retardant cotton. These shirts meet the requirements set by NFPA 2112. You can see a clear FR tag on the front pocket. It’s also a great choice for any industrial worker. The fire retardant cotton makes it an ideal choice for those who are highly exposed to fire. It features a long tail to make sure it stays tucked in. The brand claims a warranty of up to 50 washes. The design and fit are such that it can be worn as a uniform, and it features a relaxed fit. The sizes available are small to 3X larger. You can choose from 4 colors, black, grey, khaki, and navy blue. The only complaint raised by its customer was plastic buttons instead of snaps. Otherwise, it’s a well-made shirt with a good fit and comfort. Best Features:
Made from 8.1 oz cotton NFPA 2112 certified Size: Small to 3X large 4 color options Relaxed fit Long tail
Pros:
Features a relaxed comfortable fit Good quality and stitching Affordable
Cons:
Features plastic buttons instead of snaps
4. Lincoln Welding Shirts
Though these are expensive, the Lincoln Electric welding shirts have always been a welder’s choice because of their exceptional quality and durability. Made of 9 ounces of FIRE retardant cotton these shirts feature ample room for improved maneuverability and protection against flames, welding spatters, and heat. The shirt features an additional layer of reinforcement in the shoulders, neck, and cuffs. This double lining adds an extra layer of prevention in the high-contact areas. Even it has chrome-plated metal snaps which are adjustable and protects your wrists from heat and spatter. The ergonomic design adds strength in the most vulnerable areas while keeping you cool in the torso region where you need it the most. These shirts are anti-static treated and resistant to mildew growth. The stiff collars can be flipped up for better neck protection. It also features two large front pockets with metal snap closures. These shirts are not pre-washed so they will shrink after the first 2-3 washes. So, you better keep this in mind while deciding on the size. The only disappointment is there’s no more color option. Best Features:
Made of 9 ounces of FR retardant cotton Reinforcement in the shoulders, neck, and cuffs Chrome plated metal snaps Mildew and anti-static treated Machine washable NFPA 2112 certified Size: Small to 3X large
Pros:
Great quality Durable Resistant to mildew growth Reinforced shoulders, neck, and collar
Cons:
Expensive
5. KONRECO Welding Shirts
KONRECO FR shirts have excellent ratings from its users. The shirt is thick and stiff, something that will keep you warm and comfortable during winters. This shirt is cut from 7.5 oz cotton twill which is not on the lightweight side. This comes with an ATPV rating of 9.2 cal/cm2. It’s available in size small to 5X large. And we are glad to tell you that the shirts are true to size. There are many color options too. It features 2 adjustable pearl snaps from YKK ensuring good quality and durability. They are pre washed and pre-shrunk so they won’t shrink after washing. They have two pockets at the front with a pen slot on the right side. It features a loose comfortable fit with a long tail that stays tucked in so you can move freely with an excellent range of motion. The arms have plenty of room and it breathes well. We don’t say that it’s inappropriate for the summer, but we think you will prefer something lightweight. 7.5oz is pretty heavy for a cotton shirt. Best Features:
Made from 7.5 oz cotton twill ATPV rating 9.2 cal/cm2 Size: S to 5X large YKK pearl snaps Two pockets at front Machine washable
Pros:
FR resistant with an ATPV rating 9.2 cal/cm2 YKK snaps Reasonable and durable Plenty of size and color options
Cons:
Too warm for summer
6. Western Welding Shirts
This is the only non FR welding shirt on the list. And its best use is under a welding jacket or apron. Sometimes you just wear a normal shirt that is thick and heavy but is also breathable and comfortable. The Western Welder shirt is made of 100% pure cotton twill of 8 oz fabric. The material is designed to allow plenty of airflow to keep you nice, cool and comfortable as you weld in high temperatures. While the material is not flame resistant it is wear and tear-resistant. It’s triple-stitched from all sides and has pearl snaps. The collar is spread and can be turned up because the 8 oz fabric is thick and stiff. It features a relaxed fit, triple snap cuffs, and two chest pockets with a pen slot on the left. It’s machine washable. You can choose from a variety of colors and sizes are available from small to 7X large. Best Features:
Made from 8 oz of cotton twill Reinforced shoulder, collar and neck Triple stitched Pearl snaps Size: S to 7X large Machine washable
Pros:
Affordable Great for summers Good shirt to wear underneath a welding jacket
Cons:
Not FOR resistant
7. Just In Trend Welding Shirts
It’s a new brand on the market but has become a popular choice among welders. It’s a heavy-weight shirt made to keep sparks at bay. These shirts are cut from 9 oz/cm2 fabric and have an ATPV rating of 13 cal/cm2 which is excellent. It comes at a fair price and works better than many expensive choices. It’s thick and stiff. It will take a few washes to loosen up the fabric. It’s not a summer-wear welding shirt but it will keep you nice and warm during the winters as 9 oz/cm2 is quite heavy for a shirt. It’s available from size small to 7XL which is a wider range than most of the shirts in our list. It’s mercerized cotton which is meant to prevent shrinkage. However, a few customers have noticed shrinkage which is normal for a pure cotton welding shirt. We love the pearl snaps that are provided inside of buttons. You can choose from 5 color options. They also feature reinforcements on the neck and shoulders. There are two pockets on the front with a flap open which prevents the sparks from getting in. It’s also ASTM F1506 certified to protect you from Arc flash and NFPA 2112 certified from flash fire. Best Features:
Made from 9 oz of cotton twill APTV rating 13 cal/cm2 NFPA 2112 certified ASTM F1506 certified Size: S to 4X large Two roomy front pockets HRC 2 rated
Pros:
Reasonably priced Highly flame resistant Thick and warm Great for winters
Cons:
Material is thick and rough Not good for summers
8. Waylander Welding Shirts
This is a heavy-duty shirt which is thick but equally comfortable. Made of 9 oz flame-resistant cotton this shirt will protect you from flames, spatter, and flashes. Even though it’s a thick material, it breathes well, and so it will keep you cooler as you weld in high temperatures. It features double lining the collar, cuffs, and button columns. All these reinforcements are there to offer you a higher level of protection. The cuffs are a little longer but it’s good to keep it tucked in. It has metal snaps of high quality and flame resistant. It also has 2 roomy chest pockets to hold your stuffed and 2 flaps with button enclosure to keep you protected. Its ATPV value is 8.2 cal/cm2 and It’s NFPA 2112 certified which means it’s acceptable in workshops and most industries. You have two options to choose from, one is black and the second is khaki. Best Features:
Made of 9 oz flame-resistant cotton Double layering in the collar, cuffs, and button column 2 roomy chest pockets ATPV value is 8.2 cal/cm2 NFPA 2112 certified Size: S to 4X large Machine washable
Pros:
Breathes well Comfortable Reasonably priced ATPV value 8.2 cal/cm2
Cons:
Not many color options The material is rough
Best Welding Shirt Buying Guide
Welding shirts have a special purpose, they are no ordinary shirts, and hence the selection process is also different. If you don’t know it already, FR means fire resistant and not fireproof. Fire resistant means the shirts can catch fire but they can resist it or slow down the process to some degree which lets you time long enough to get to safety or remove the clothing to avoid or minimize the chances of burn injuries. Here’s what you need to keep in mind while buying a welding shirt.
1. FR Welding Shirts or “ FLame retardant” Welding Shirts
If you are searching online you might have come across too many welding shirts that look really cool. But if you don’t find that “FR ” tag or “flame retardant” tag know that it’s of no use. If you buy them, you would just buy an ordinary shirt that you wear on casual occasions. It’s not made for welding and other industrial jobs. A welding shirt with an FR tag on it has passed through many performance tests to get the tag. The “FR” tag on these shirts means it meets the safety standards set by the safety authorities. Without the FR tag means the shirt can catch a fire immediately and it doesn’t provide any safety.
2. ATPV Rating
ATPV is the abbreviation of Arc Thermal Protection Value. ATPV is the amount of heat resistance capacity of a garment to prevent a second-degree burn which is measured in calories per centimeter square. It is based on the total weight of the garment. An ATPV rating 7 means that the garment can resist catching fire when exposed to a heat level 7 cal/cm2 for 2 seconds. These results are based on laboratory experiments and in real life it can vary depending on the workplace. The motive behind setting these safety standards is to buy you time as you notice some hazards and take measurements to eliminate any injuries.
3. Fabric
Welding shirts are mostly made out of pure cotton. Look for a flame-retardant cotton welding shirt. The reason most welding shirts are made of cotton is that cotton is breathable and comfortable. However, some shirts may use some nylon or polyester mix. Whatever material you buy, make sure it’s flame resistant. Also, check every detail regarding the material so you don’t end up wasting your money.
4. Design And Construction
Welding shirts have some specific features which make them different from casual shirts.
They might have Nomex thread stitching which is fire-resistant They have long sleeves for better protection They have multiple and adjustable cuff fasteners They might be made of anti-static treated fabric They use natural materials like cotton, denim, and twill They have metal, wood or shell for buttons They feature heavy-duty buttons or spans. Snaps are preferable because they are easier to use Welding shirts have flaps on pockets to keep things protected They also feature longer tails of keep them tucked in
5. Size
Another thing that you must check is the right fit for your body type. It would be best if you could wear a tailor-made shirt. But that might not be possible. So you need to carefully check the dimensions from the description box. The best way to decide on your size is to take the measurement of any casual shirt that you wear. It’s always a good idea to keep some extra space for a range of motions which welders need a lot. Also, keep in mind that cotton shirts can shrink a bit after a few washes. So, you also need to keep that in mind. Usually, welding shirts come in a variety of sizes from S to 3X and sometimes more. If you a brand runs one size smaller in size choose a size that is larger than your actual size and vice versa.
6. Design And Other Considerations
There are plenty of different types of welding shirts that feature different styles and designs. But when you buy a welding shirt, it shouldn’t be only because of its design. You should also look for the material, fabric, and FR certifications which are more important factors than design and style. Remember. safety is above all. Here are some more factors to keep in mind: The breathability of your shirt is important as it helps you keep you all cool and comfortable. Look for reinforcements like double-line stitching and double layering at stress points. Some shirts have moisture-wicking technology to help you keep dry. You might also want to look for fabric treatments like treatments for mildew growth and anti-static treatments. Choose a design that’s consistent with the rest of the style. And choose an appropriate color and style according to your uniform.
Conclusion
Protective welding gear and clothing should be your priority. A welder should always choose something that contributes to safety but at the same time offers comfort and doesn’t get in the way of their work precision and mobility. Consider these above-mentioned factors while buying a welding shirt so that buying one doesn’t seem like a big deal anymore. Welding shirts don’t come cheap and hence you need to keep all these perspectives in mind. Make sure your welding shirt comes with an “FR” tag. Make sure it’s made of natural fabrics like cotton, denim, and twill. Remember your safety comes before the design and style. If you are still confused about your purchase here are our top three recommendations:
If you are looking for the best shirt overall then go with Titicaca Welding Shirts. It’s made of 100% cotton and it’s FR certified. It is also NFPA 2112 and CAT II certified which makes it acceptable for use in workshops regulated by OSHA. Moreover, It has an ATPV rating of 9.2 cal/cm2 which is great. If you are looking for something lightweight and breathable then you can go with BOCOMAL Welding Shirts. These are 100% cotton shirts with an ATPV rating of 8.2 cal/cm2. It can be a great welding shirt for summers. It also meets NFPA 2112 standards and ASTM F1506 plus CAT II requirements. If you are looking for a budget welding shirt, you can definitely consider Ur Shield Welding Shirts. These are made of 8.1 oz of fire-retardant cotton. These shirts meet the requirements set by NFPA 2112.
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