Welding in the summer sun can feel like a dance with the fire itself. While the heat intensifies, the necessity for safety doesn’t wane. However, not all welding shirts are created equal, especially when it comes to battling the relentless heat.
The year 2023 brings forward innovative designs that combine protection with breathability. Dive into our curated list of the best summer welding shirts, crafted for those who refuse to compromise between safety and comfort.
What kind of Shirt is best for Summer time welding?
Summer welding demands a shirt that does more than just shield you from sparks; it must also be breathable and lightweight to combat the summer heat. A good summer welding shirt is typically constructed from natural materials, like cotton, which offers inherent flame-resistant properties without compromising on comfort.
This ensures that the shirt provides adequate protection against potential welding hazards while also keeping you relatively cool.
- 100% cotton construction for natural breathability.
- Inherent flame resistance to safeguard against sparks and splatter.
- Lightweight design to avoid added heat and weight.
- Moisture-wicking properties to draw sweat away from the body.
- Designed with ample fit for unrestricted movement.
- Durable stitching and seams for longevity despite rigorous use.
Keeping these qualities in mind let’s take a look at the best hot-weather welding shirts in 2023.
Wrangler Riggs Workwear FR Shirt
The Wrangler FR shirt is meticulously crafted for those who prioritize safety without compromising on comfort. Designed with the modern worker in mind, this slate grey shirt marries form and function, offering a classic fit that ensures ease of movement.
Made entirely of cotton, the shirt promises breathable comfort throughout your workday, while its CAT2 and 2112 classifications underscore its robust protection capabilities. With an ATPV rating of 9.2 CAL/CM2, it stands firm against potential hazards, making it an ideal choice for challenging work environments.
Key Features:
- Safety Assured: Meets NFPA 70e/NFPA 2112 Certification and CAT2 standards.
- Conspicuous Design: Features a bright orange outside ID for heightened visibility.
- Robust Construction: Integrated with Nomex® FR thread in the seams for added resilience.
- Ample Storage: Two rounded bottom front pockets with a button-through design and an added pencil slot for convenience.
- Classic and Comfortable: Boasts a relaxed fit with a straight-back yoke, ensuring a mix of style and ease.
- Durable Closures: Classic button-down collar, button front closure, and two-button adjustable cuffs for a secure fit.
- Affordable Quality: Available at an unbeatable price of $79.99.
Wrangler Riggs Workwear Long-sleeve FR T-shirt
Made exclusively of 100% cotton jersey, this shirt is specifically tailored to protect against electric arc flash and flame exposures. Designed to offer a relaxed fit, it neither constricts nor hangs too loose, providing optimal comfort throughout wear.
The presence of the signature logo is a testament to the Wrangler’s quality assurance, further enriched by the flame-resistant thread that stitches the shirt together.
Key Features:
- Optimal Protection: Boasts an ATPV rating of 8.9 CAL/CM2 and meets NFPA 70e/NFPA 2112 Certification and CAT2 standards.
- Unparalleled Comfort: Crafted from 100% cotton jersey, ensuring breathable and snug wear.
- Built to Last: All seams are stitched with flame-resistant thread, fortifying the shirt’s durability.
- Stylish & Functional: Features a crew neckline and the trusted Wrangler logo for a touch of branded elegance.
- Comfort Fit: Designed with a relaxed fit that complements all body types.
- Finishing Touches: Ribbed collar and cuff detailing enhance the overall aesthetic of the shirt.
- Value Deal: Priced at $ 99.99 with an unbeatable ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free‘ offer.
Carhartt Flame Resistant Plaid Shirt
Safety and comfort merge seamlessly in this Flame Resistant Force Rugged Flex shirt, tailored for those braving open flames or electrical hazards. Expertly crafted from a resilient cotton-blend twill, this shirt not only offers impeccable flame resistance but also ensures sweat-wicking, odor-fighting, and a lightweight feel that accompanies you through demanding workdays.
Key Features:
- Fabric Composition: Premium 6.5-ounce, 75% Cotton/20% Polyethylene vinyl acetate/5% Para-Aramid FR twill offers lasting durability.
- Safety First: Meets the performance benchmarks of NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506, and is UL® classified to NFPA 2112, ensuring top-tier protection.
- Force Technology: Incorporated with Carhartt’s Force tech for optimal sweat-wicking, quick drying, and odor resistance.
- FastDry® Advantage: Ensures you remain cool and comfortable throughout the day.
- Elegant Design: A button-down collar, extended sleeve plackets, and two-button adjustable cuffs for an elevated appearance.
- Trusted Branding: Carhartt FR label prominently sewn on the left pocket and an NFPA 2112 / CAT 2 label on the sleeve placket.
- Storage: Features two convenient chest pockets with button closures.
- Model Specifications: Designed to fit a range of body types, modeled by a 6’3″ individual with a 44″ chest size in Med/Large.
- Unique Model No: TW4507-FRM.
- Price: $53
Carhartt Force Long-sleeve FR Henley
Safety meets unbeatable comfort in the CARHARTT FORCE® Cotton Long-Sleeve Henley. Designed for professionals, this flame-resistant shirt provides top-tier protection without compromising on comfort. Constructed from a lightweight FR jersey, it efficiently wicks sweat, combats odor, and ensures you remain fresh even through demanding shifts.
With its rating labels strategically placed on the chest pocket, safety checks become swift and straightforward. The shirt is available in four versatile colors with the “red barn” being the popular choice among welders.
Key Features:
- Fabric Makeup: Made from a superior 6.75-ounce, 100% cotton FR jersey, ensuring durability and comfort.
- Safety Compliance: Proudly meets the performance criteria of NFPA 70E and is UL® classified to NFPA 2112, ensuring maximum protection.
- Prominent Labeling: Carhartt FR and NFPA 2112/CAT 2 labels are sewn conspicuously on the pocket for easy safety verification.
- Force Technology: Infused with Force technology, this shirt offers exceptional sweat-wicking and rapid drying capabilities.
- FastDry® Efficiency: Features FastDry® technology that efficiently wicks away moisture and combats odors, keeping you fresh and dry.
- Model Specifications: Tailored to fit diverse physiques, modeled by a 6’2″ individual with a 40.5″ chest, wearing size M.
- Enhanced Construction: Side-seam design minimizes twisting, ensuring a comfortable fit during movement.
- Stylish Design: A rib-knit henley collar coupled with a three-button placket provides a sophisticated look.
- Practical Pocket: A left chest pocket for utility and style.
- Price: $79.99
Dickies Men’s Flame Resistant Long Sleeve Tee
Workplaces demand a perfect blend of safety and comfort, and with Dickies Men’s Flame Resistant Long Sleeve Tee, you get precisely that. Crafted for professionals who prioritize safety, this shirt is designed with a lightweight FR jersey fabric ensuring not just protection, but also unparalleled comfort.
With moisture-wicking properties and an odor-fighting mechanism, it promises to keep you fresh throughout the day. Its safety rating labels are strategically placed on the chest pocket, streamlining safety checks.
Key Features:
- Material Perfection: Made of 100% high-quality cotton.
- Origin: Proudly made in the US.
- Convenient Closure: Comes with a hassle-free pull-on closure.
- Care Instructions: Machine-wash friendly.
- Reinforced Design: Features reinforced taped neck and shoulder seams ensuring longevity.
- Ergonomic Fit: Offers ease through the chest and shoulders, allowing unhindered movement.
- Pocket Utility: A functional left chest pocket for essentials.
- Softness Guaranteed: Fabricated with an ultra-soft interlock knit.
- Protection Assured: The DFL511 model ensures protection against electric arc flash and flash fires.
- Compliance & Ratings: Conforms to 70E standards with an ARC rating of 10.9 and is categorized under HRC Level 2.
- Trusted Legacy: A product from Dickies, a brand renowned for over 90 years for its durable, functional, and value-packed workwear.
- Cutting-Edge FR Technology: Incorporates state-of-the-art flame-resistant technology that lasts the garment’s life.
- American-made Fabric: Uses rigorously tested, consistently protective American-made Flame-Resistant fabrics.
- External Labeling: Comes with an external HRC labeling system for easy checks.
- Price: $49.99
How to choose the ideal Welding Shirt?
Choosing the perfect welding shirt is pivotal, not just for style but for safety. Consider factors like fabric, flame resistance, fit, and additional features to ensure you’re well-protected and comfortable.
Still unsure? Dive deeper into our comprehensive “Welding Shirt Guide for Beginners” to make an informed choice that marries both function and comfort. Your ideal welding shirt awaits!
FAQs
Some commonly asked questions regarding Hot Weather Welders shirts are:
Is cotton or polyester better for welding?
Cotton is better for welding shirts in summer as it’s less flammable than polyester.
What do welders wear in the summer?
Welders wear lightweight, flame-resistant clothing in the summer.
What is the best welding fabric for summertime?
The best welding fabric for summer is lightweight, breathable, and flame-resistant cotton.
Is a 100% cotton shirt good for welding in summer?
Yes, a 100% cotton shirt is suitable for welding in summer, provided it’s flame-resistant.