Leather Welding Clothing FAQs
Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing and using leather welding aprons, sleeves, spats and jackets.
Why choose leather rather than flame-resistant fabric?
Leather is tough and resists sparks, spatter and radiant heat well, so it is a standard choice for heavy, high-spatter work such as stick welding, cutting, gouging and overhead welding. It also stands up to abrasion.
Flame-resistant fabric is lighter, cooler and more flexible, and it is often better for lighter work or long shifts. Many welders wear fabric overalls and add leather pieces where the hazard is greatest. Choose by process, position and how much heat and spatter you expect.
What is the difference between grain leather and split leather?
Grain leather comes from the outer layer of the hide, while split leather comes from the lower layers. Grain is generally smoother and more flexible, and split is generally rougher and stiffer, but the thickness, tanning and finish of each can change how it behaves.
Because of this, do not choose on the type name alone. Look at the thickness and finish, and check the maker's description and the markings on the garment for your own work. Choose a more flexible leather where you need to move freely, and a thicker, heavier one where heat and spatter are greater.
Should I choose an apron, a jacket or both?
An apron is light, cool and easy to put on and take off, and it covers the front of the body where most spatter lands. A jacket gives more cover to the arms, shoulders and back, which matters for overhead or all-round exposure.
For light welding in a fixed position, an apron may be enough. For heavy work, positional welding or cutting, use a jacket or an apron with sleeves. Your risk assessment should decide, based on where the hot metal will go.
What are spats for, and how should they be worn?
Spats are leather covers that fit over the top of your boot and laces. They stop spatter and slag from landing in the boot or lodging in the laces, where it can burn through to the foot and be hard to remove.
Trouser legs should go over the boots and spats, not tucked in. Spats with a quick-release fastening can be taken off quickly if hot metal gets into them. Safety footwear is still needed, as spats do not protect against impact or crushing.