Let’s Dive into Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each represents a solid, economical choice for welders seeking reliable hand protection. These gloves are designed to withstand the rigors of Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, offering a blend of dexterity and heat resistance. Wells Lamont, a trusted name in work gloves, aims to provide quality at a price point that’s accessible to both professionals and hobbyists.
My need for these gloves stemmed from a recurring problem at my metal fabrication shop: finding durable, comfortable welding gloves that didn’t break the bank. I was constantly battling gloves that either wore out too quickly, lacked the necessary dexterity for fine TIG work, or were simply too expensive to replace regularly. The promise of a pack of 12 quality gloves for under $30 immediately caught my eye.
Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the uniform quality and the feel of the grain cowhide leather. The gloves felt supple, not stiff, and the Kevlar stitching gave me confidence in their durability. The 4-inch split leather cuff provided ample wrist protection, something I always look for.
Compared to similar offerings from Lincoln Electric or Tillman, these gloves seemed to offer a better balance of price and features. While those brands certainly offer premium options, the Wells Lamont gloves appeared to be a more practical solution for high-volume use where glove longevity is a factor. They seemed less about luxury and more about reliable performance at a reasonable cost. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – excited about the potential cost savings and convenience, but also eager to see if they would truly hold up to the demands of daily welding.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test for the Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each was during a large fabrication project involving both MIG and TIG welding of stainless steel components. I used them primarily in the shop, but also on a couple of outdoor job sites with varying weather conditions. The gloves performed admirably in dry conditions, offering good grip and dexterity for manipulating small parts during TIG welding.
In slightly damp conditions, the grain cowhide retained its grip surprisingly well. However, prolonged exposure to moisture did cause the leather to stiffen slightly, impacting flexibility. I found them relatively easy to get used to; the pre-curved fingers and wing thumb design contributed to a comfortable, natural fit.
The only initial issue was the slight break-in period required for the leather to fully conform to my hand. This is typical of most leather gloves, and after a few hours of use, they felt perfectly molded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Wells Lamont gloves proved to be a surprisingly durable option. While the grain cowhide did show signs of wear in high-stress areas like the fingertips and palm, the Kevlar stitching held strong, preventing any seam failures. Regular cleaning with a leather conditioner helped to maintain the suppleness of the leather and extend its lifespan.
Compared to some previous welding gloves I’ve used that fell apart within a week, these Wells Lamont gloves have noticeably outperformed expectations for their price point. I would estimate their lifespan to be approximately 2-3 weeks of daily use, depending on the intensity of the welding tasks.
The leather did darken and stiffen over time despite regular conditioning, reducing dexterity slightly, but the gloves continued to provide adequate heat protection. For the cost, I found the performance acceptable.
Breaking Down the Features of Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each
Specifications
- Material: Grain cowhide leather, offering a balance of durability and dexterity. Grain cowhide is known for its tighter grain and smoother surface compared to split leather, resulting in improved resistance to abrasion and heat.
- Stitching: DuPont KEVLAR® thread, providing exceptional strength and heat resistance. Kevlar stitching is a critical feature in welding gloves, as it prevents seam failure under extreme temperatures.
- Cuff: Split leather 4″ cuff, offering extended wrist and forearm protection. The split leather cuff provides added coverage against sparks and heat, minimizing the risk of burns.
- Cut: Gunn cut with wing thumb, designed for enhanced comfort and dexterity. The Gunn cut pattern places seams on the back of the hand, away from critical wear areas, while the wing thumb allows for a greater range of motion.
- Size: Large, catering to the average hand size. While the listing specifies “Large”, users should still consult sizing charts to ensure the best fit.
- Application: Preferred for Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding. These gloves are specifically designed to provide the necessary dexterity and heat protection required for these welding processes.
- Quantity: Pack of 12 / Each – this is a misleading label; each purchase is of a pack of 12 individual gloves, not 12 pairs. This bulk quantity makes them a cost-effective solution for workshops or frequent welders.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the glove’s ability to protect the welder’s hands from heat, sparks, and abrasion, while also allowing for precise control and manipulation of welding equipment. The combination of grain cowhide, Kevlar stitching, and a thoughtful cut pattern contributes to a safe and comfortable welding experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each perform their intended job admirably, providing adequate protection and reasonable dexterity for both MIG and TIG welding. For MIG welding, the heat resistance is sufficient for moderate-duty tasks, preventing burns and discomfort during extended welding sessions. The gloves allow for a decent level of control when manipulating the MIG gun and feeding the wire.
For TIG welding, the grain cowhide offers the necessary feel and dexterity to precisely control the torch and filler rod. While not as sensitive as thinner, dedicated TIG gloves, these provide a good compromise between protection and finesse. The main weakness is the potential for stiffness after prolonged use or exposure to moisture, which can slightly reduce dexterity.
Overall, these gloves meet expectations for a mid-range welding glove, offering a good balance of performance and affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each feature a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both protection and comfort. The grain cowhide is relatively supple, allowing for good hand movement. The Gunn cut and wing thumb design promote a natural grip and minimize hand fatigue.
The 4-inch split leather cuff provides ample wrist protection from sparks and heat. There is a slight learning curve associated with any new pair of gloves, but these Wells Lamont gloves are generally user-friendly and require minimal break-in time.
Durability & Maintenance
These Wells Lamont gloves offer reasonable durability for their price. The grain cowhide is more resistant to abrasion than split leather, and the Kevlar stitching significantly enhances seam strength. With regular care and maintenance, including cleaning and conditioning, these gloves can last for several weeks of daily use.
The gloves are relatively easy to maintain; simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use and apply leather conditioner periodically to keep the leather supple. The stitching is robust and unlikely to require repair under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each do not come with any additional accessories beyond the gloves themselves. Customization options are limited, but welders can use leather conditioners or treatments to improve the gloves’ water resistance or flexibility. The gloves are generally compatible with standard welding jackets and sleeves for added protection.
Pros and Cons of Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each
Pros
- Cost-effective: Buying in a pack of 12 provides significant cost savings compared to purchasing individual pairs.
- Good dexterity: The grain cowhide and wing thumb design allow for reasonable dexterity, especially for TIG welding.
- Durable construction: The Kevlar stitching ensures long-lasting seam strength.
- Adequate heat protection: Suitable for moderate-duty MIG and TIG welding tasks.
- Extended wrist protection: The 4-inch split leather cuff provides ample coverage against sparks and heat.
Cons
- Limited water resistance: Grain cowhide can stiffen and lose flexibility when exposed to moisture.
- Only available in one size: The “Large” size may not fit all users comfortably.
Who Should Buy Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each?
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each are perfect for:
- Welders in high-volume production environments where glove replacement is frequent.
- Hobbyist welders who need reliable protection without breaking the bank.
- Metal fabrication shops looking for a cost-effective solution for employee hand protection.
These gloves are not ideal for:
- Welders who require maximum dexterity for intricate TIG welding applications.
- Welders who work primarily in wet or damp conditions.
- Those requiring a specific size other than “Large”.
A must-have accessory is a good quality leather conditioner to help maintain the gloves’ suppleness and extend their lifespan.
Conclusion on Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each
The Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each offer a compelling value proposition for welders seeking reliable protection at an affordable price. The gloves deliver a good balance of dexterity, heat resistance, and durability, making them suitable for a wide range of welding applications. While they may not be the most luxurious or high-performance gloves on the market, they provide exceptional value for the money.
At a price of $29.49 for a pack of 12, the cost per pair is incredibly low, making them an economical choice for workshops and frequent welders. I would personally recommend these gloves to anyone looking for a cost-effective, reliable solution for hand protection during MIG and TIG welding. Don’t hesitate; equip your hands with the Wells Lamont Kevlar Grain Cowhide MIG/TIG Welders, Y2021, Pack of 12 / Each and get back to work!