This post is a comprehensive review of the nine best pants for welding.
Based on experience and extensive research, I found that Wrangler Riggs Workwear men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit jeans are the overall best pants for welding.
I am a welder with over five years of experience. And I have conducted thorough research on the nine best pants for welding.
Welders need unique clothing to protect them from the harmful effects of welding. The fabric needs to be breathable and insulated at the same time so that you do not overheat.
Regardless, other brands go the extra mile to give their rivals a run for their money. That is why I have reviewed the best for every category.
Keep reading to know the best welding pants on the market today.
Our Overall Best
Wrangler Riggs Workwear men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit jeans
- Flame resistant
- 100% cotton material
- Easy to maintain
Best for comfort
JOBMAN Workwear Welding Pants
- Anti-flame treatment
- Many pockets
- Easy to work with
Best for price
Bulwark Men’s Flame Resistant 14.75 Ounce Pre-Washed Denim Dungaree
- Brand popularity
- 48% Modacrylic
- More durable fabrics
Our Best Pants for Welding
1. Wrangler Riggs Workwear men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit jeans (Overall best pants for welding)
2. Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Signature Denim Jean Relaxed Fit (Best welding pants for heavy-duty flame resistance)
3. Bulwark Men’s Flame Resistant 14.75 Ounce Pre-Washed Denim Dungaree (Best welding pants for budget)
4. Black Stallion Welding Chaps, 40in, Split Cowhide Leather (Best welding pants for wet welding)
5. Magid SparkGuard FR 12 oz. Cotton Pants (Best welding pants for make-up material)
6. Caterpillar Men’s Flame Resistant Cargo (Best welding pants for toughness and lasting)
7. JOBMAN Workwear Welding Pants (Best welding pants for comfort)
8. Dickies Men’s Flame-Resistant Duck (Best welding pants for easy maintenance)
9. MCR Safety 38600mw Memphis Split Welding Chaps (Best welding pants for easy wear and removal)
The Nine Best Pants for Welding
All the brands on this list meet the requirements of the minimal standard for protective clothing.
Here is our list of the nine best pants for welding.
1. Wrangler Riggs Workwear men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit jeans
Brand
Wrangler Riggs Workwear
Material
Made with durable 14.75 oz. Cotton denim weight.
Certification
NFPA 2112; HRC 2; ATPV 23.8 calories/cm2. Compliant with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269, NFPA-70E, and ASTM F1506-02ael standards.
Durability
Finished with triple needle stitching and a high-quality brass zipper and button closure.
Reliability
These work jeans can meet rigorous fire-resistant requirements.
The pants can self-extinguish, and help prevent or reduce the severity of burn injuries.
Pockets
5-pocket styling:
Two reinforced back pockets;
Two front pockets; and
One oversized watch pocket
Size & Fit
Size: 30 to 60
Waist: 30 to 60
Hip: 36 to 58
Made with a relaxed fit that fits over your work boots.
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
These Wrangler Riggs Men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit Jeans are my best option for almost all kinds of welding -particularly TIG welding.
They will not burn or melt when you weld with the pants (made from 12-ounce denim).
Their relaxed fit makes them comfortable to wear all day long; you can wear them to work, around town, or to a casual social gathering.
The flame-resistant finish also makes them great for handling any outdoor activity.
They are resistant to oil, grease, and other contaminants.
The reinforced fabric also makes them durable, so you can wear them for years without worrying about repairs.
2. Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Signature Denim Jean Relaxed Fit
Brand
Carhartt
Material
Constructed with durable 11.75-ounce and 100% cotton flame-resistant denim.
Certification
It complies with NFPA 70E and NFPA 2112 standards.
Durability
Completed with arc-resistant button closure at the waistline, and brass zipper fly with Nomex zipper tape.
Pockets
4-pocket styling:
Two reinforced back pockets; and
Two front pockets.
Size & Fit
Size: 28 to 54
Waist: 28 to 54
Hip: 34 to 60
It is made with a relaxed-fitting seat and thigh.
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Signature Denim Jeans are reliable and comfortable.
The signature denim line has been a staple in the denim industry for decades.
They used traditional techniques in composing them. You will not find such at your local factory.
They also used Gusseted Seam technology in designing them. This technology helps keep the denim from stretching out and wearing out fast.
They have a classic 4-pocket style and an elastic waistband that keeps them in place.
The fabric is softer than most jeans, which is why they are so comfortable to wear.
Yet, some users have reported them to be too loose.
3. Bulwark Men’s Flame Resistant 14.75 Ounce Pre-Washed Denim Dungaree
Brand
Bulwark
Material
15% Aramid, 37% Lyocell, and 48% Modacrylic.
Certification
It complies with the CAT2, Arc Rating ATPV 21 calories/cm², and NFPA 2112 standards.
Durability
It is made with stronger seams, and with more durable fabrics.
Pockets
5-pocket styling:
Two deep scoop pockets;
Two oversized reinforced hip pockets; and
One rule pocket on the right leg.
Size & Fit
Size: 28 to 54
Waist: 30 to 60
Hip: 34 to 60
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
These Bulwark Men’s Flame Resistant 14.75-ounce Pre-washed Denim Dungarees are another terrific option for welding.
They are available in a relaxed fit. Thus, they can fit most body types with ease.
The denim used in these dungarees is 14.75-ounce and flame resistant, so it will not burn or melt when you are welding.
Since they are pre-washed, they come out of the dryer looking great and are ready to wear immediately.
You will not have to worry about them shrinking when you wear them.
These dungarees have an elastic waistband that keeps them in place.
Nonetheless, it is worthy of note that I have experienced noncompliance in sizes before.
4. Black Stallion Welding Chaps, 40in, Split Cowhide Leather
Brand
Revco
Material
All cowhide leather
Certification
It complies with the CAT2 standards.
Durability
Features a brace of 17 rivets to keep the hems together under harsh conditions.
Pockets
0-pocket styling:
These are not actual pants but welding chaps that wrap over your pants –like an apron. So you can wear ordinary work jeans underneath.
Size & Fit
40
Included Components
Apron
Revco makes its Black Stallion Welding Chaps from cowhide leather.
Cowhide leather is a fire-retardant protective material that blocks harmful radiation.
This makes them a good choice for welding in the rain.
They are flexible to fit a wide variety of body shapes and sizes.
They are also very durable and comfortable.
The 40-inch total length provides plenty of coverage for most people.
5. Magid SparkGuard FR 12 oz. Cotton Pants
Brand
Magid Glove & Safety
Material
100% Cotton
Certification
It complies with the ASTM D6413 safety standards.
Durability
It’s a flame resistance whipcord pants with belt loops, and a zipper with leather reinforced front snap.
Pockets
4-pocket styling:
Two sides; and
Two rear patch pockets.
Size & Fit
Size: 30 to 46
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
If you are looking for reliable and comfortable pants, I recommend these Magid Cotton Pants.
They are made from 12-ounce cotton.
The cotton is treated with the FR technology to resist fire. This keeps them light.
The fabric is also anti-static, so you do not have to worry about it attracting dust or other contaminants.
The anti-static finish also prevents static electricity.
Such can be dangerous in high voltage applications.
Although I find the design unusual, it remains a good choice if you have no issue with style.
6. Caterpillar Men’s Flame Resistant Cargo
Brand
Caterpillar Workwear
Material
12% Nylon, 88% Cotton
Certification
NFPA 2112 UL Certified.
Compliant with 70E CAT 2, ATPV 11.5, and ASTM F1506 standards.
Durability
A high-quality brass zipper and button closure make up the finishing touches on this item. Triple needle stitching completes it.
Reliability
These flame-resistant work pants help avoid the severity of burn injuries by making them self-extinguish.
Pockets
4-pocket styling:
Two reinforced side pockets; and
Two front pockets.
Size & Fit (by in)
Size (by in): S, M, L, XL
Waist: 28 to 42
Inseam: 30 to 34
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
These Caterpillar Men’s Flame Resistant Cargo Pants provide comfort.
They also provide a wide range of motion for demanding jobs.
They feature a diamond crotch gusset for extra strength, protection, and room to move.
Panels are sewn into the knees to provide extra articulation.
This avoids binding the kneecaps.
These flame-resistant pants are from a 9-ounce cotton/nylon twill blend and weigh light.
This makes them stand better than denim, duck, or leather pants. Thus, these pants are my best pick for summer welding.
In summary, these are a great fit if you are looking for light fire resistance pants. Not as durable as heavier pants.
7. JOBMAN Workwear Welding Pants
Brand
JOBMAN Workwear
Material
100% Cotton with an anti-fire solution.
Certification
Compliant with the new European Standard: EN11611 and EN11612.
Durability
These 100% cotton heavy-duty pant has reinforced stress areas. It is made to face the European weather.
Pockets
About 3-pocket styling:
Two external knee pad pockets; and
One extra pocket on the left leg.
Size & Fit
Size: 32 to 47
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
These JOBMAN Workwear Welding Pants are well-treated with the pyruvate agent, which makes them reliable and flame resistant.
Although it has a massive strength construction, it is super light, which makes it quite comfortable.
These welding pants have a kneepad to increase the strength of the knee regions.
Regardless, some users have complained about the pockets being too tight and nearly inaccessible.
8. Dickies Men’s Flame-Resistant Duck
Brand
Dickies
Material
11.5 ounce and 100% Cotton duck fabric.
Certification
Compliant with the NFPA 2112 standards.
Durability
Its good insulated quilt lining will protect you against hazardous conditions that can occur on some tough jobs.
Reliability
The Arc rating for this duck is 39 – HRC3. It has a zip-to-knee leg opening with a heavy-duty brass zipper.
Pockets
4-pocket styling:
Two reinforced side pockets; and
Two front pockets.
Size & Fit (by in)
Size (by in): M, L, XL, 2X, 3X
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
Dickies’ Welder’s Pants are perfect for welders who need a pair of welding pants that are affordable and easy to move in.
The welding pants are made from flame-resistant denim that protects you from heat and flames.
Moreover, the welding pants are also very durable, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty use.
The welding pants are also torn-resistant, this makes them suitable for use in harsh environments.
Some buyers do not like these welding pants because they wrinkle fast. Moreover, they are also bulky.
Another downside of these welding pants is that they are not very breathable.
9. MCR Safety 38600mw Memphis Split Welding Chaps
Brand
MCR Safety
Material
Cow Leather
Certification
Compliant with the NFPA 2112 standards.
Durability
These Memphis welding chaps carry heavy side-split cow leather and offer outstanding protection from heat, sparks, slag, and cuts.
Reliability
These chaps come with double-locked Kevlar thread. It also features rivets in all major stress points and treated green straps with quick-release buckles.
Pockets
0-pocket styling:
These are not actual pants but welding chaps that wrap over your pants –like an apron. So you can wear ordinary work jeans underneath.
Size & Fit
40
Maintenance
Machine Wash.
MCR Safety 38600mw Memphis Split Welding Chaps are one of the most popular welding pants on the market.
The chaps are of heavy-duty nylon, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
The Memphis split welding chaps also come with a double layer of material that makes them highly breathable. This ensures that you do not overheat while you weld.
Another thing that buyers like about these welding pants is the fact that they are lightweight.
Moreover, the material of the chaps is thick and pliable, which makes them easy to move in.
One of the downsides of these welding pants is that they are bulky.
Buyers Guide – What You Need to Know Before You Shop
Before you shop for welding pants, take a moment to review the key factors that will help you choose the best pair for your specific needs. Let us begin with the basics.
What are the best brands?
Always drawing my attention will be a well-known, reputable brand.
Safety and quality are two things I consider when choosing a workwear brand.
It is not to say a well-known brand will start at the top of the list for me, but a quality item is usually a fair place to start.
What is your budget?
Finding a happy medium of paying for quality yet paying a reasonable price is something that I enjoy doing.
Always remember that you compromise quality if you pay too little and waste your hard-earned money if you pay too much.
What materials are the pants made from?
I always consider the construction fabric of the welding pants because it determines many things.
First, it determines the degree of safety.
The material should be active and resistant to fire and sparks.
But you should note that the fabric’s fire-resistant abilities diminish with time.
Your best size and fit
Your pants size and fit are crucial factors because you can lack concentration at work due to poor working pants.
Make sure the pants are neither too flexible nor too tight.
But only favorable for working without worrying about pulling them up or adjusting them.
Is it durable and reliable?
Make sure the construction material and seams are secure if you want an enduring item.
The seams must be bound, in preference with a double stitch.
The material must be able to withstand harsh conditions.
Most of these materials include cow leather and pigskin.
Moreover, since the knee region is particularly prone to quick tear and wear, welding pants should have a knee pad to reinforce the area.
What are the safety certifications?
Many of these products bear NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) certification numbers.
The NFPA 2112 certification ensures every product meets the minor flash fire safety and performance standards.
NFPA 2113 is similar but more demanding.
NFPA 70E is for electrical standards.
Thus, you do want your pants to meet the minor regulatory requirements. Nonetheless, pants with higher standards go up the list.
The weight of the pants
Your welding pants should be as light as possible to let you move around more freely.
The pockets, comfort, and maintenance
Pockets: more pockets help if you want to carry extra tools and equipment to your job site. But this is not compulsory.
Comfort: it is vital to choose pants that provide you with the level of comfort you want while working.
Just make sure they are breathable and classic in shape.
Maintenance: the easier it is to maintain your welding pants, the better.
Why You Need Welding Pants
Welding can be a dangerous activity.
Even with the proper safety procedures in place, accidents can still happen.
You never know what situations you might find yourself in.
That is why it is crucial to have the right clothes when you weld.
Some notable benefits of having good welding pants are:
Security against radiation
Welders burn and melt metal at temperatures of 10000 to 15000 degrees.
Working in such high heat can be dangerous for your health and can cause sunburn. It also releases harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
This is why you need a good pair of welding pants to protect you against such harmful elements.
Enable swift movements
Most welding pants have fashionable classic styles that allow for comfort while welding.
This will help enable swift movement and make you enjoy your welding task.
Length of service and affordability
Welding pants are bound to last you longer than other clothing.
This is because denim fabric is strong, robust, and enduring. So it does not burn or catch fire so fast.
Moreover, having good welding pants saves you a lot of money compared to when you have to buy more than one pair of ordinary clothing often.
Our Verdict
If you have a pair of pants made from fabric that will not burn or melt when you start welding, then you should be good to go.
But the best pair of pants are above the least standard.
Check out the Wrangler Riggs Workwear men’s Fr Flame Resistant Relaxed Fit jeans. It is an excellent choice for any welder who desires the best welding pants.
FAQ
What else should welders wear for safety?
Welding Beanie
Safety Goggles
How can you clean your welding pants?
Wash the pants in warm water with detergent and oxygen bleach.
If you see more coal staging after drying them, soak them with alcohol. Then leave to dry again.
What are the best welding clothing brands?
LAPCO
Wrangler Riggs Workwear
Revco
Carhartt
Lincoln Workwear