En 12477 Type A Vs Type B Welding Gloves – Choosing The Right
Type A gloves provide high heat resistance but lower dexterity, making them the standard choice for MIG and Stick welding. Type B gloves offer superior flexibility and touch sensitivity for precision TIG welding while providing lower protection against extreme heat.
For most DIYers, owning both types is ideal. Use Type A for heavy-duty metal fabrication and Type B when you need to feed filler wire or perform intricate repairs.
We have all been there, standing at the welding bench with a project that requires both precision and heavy heat. You want to feel the filler rod move through your fingers, but you also don’t want your knuckles to bake under the arc.
Choosing between en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves doesn’t have to be a guessing game based on price alone. Understanding these ratings ensures you protect your hands without fighting against stiff leather during a delicate weld.
In this guide, I will break down the technical standards and performance differences. We will look at which pair fits your specific workshop needs so you can weld safely and comfortably.
Understanding the EN 12477 Standard
The EN 12477 standard is the European benchmark for protective gloves designed for welders. It isn’t just a random number; it combines two other critical safety standards to ensure full protection.
First, it incorporates EN 388, which measures mechanical risks like abrasion, blade cuts, and punctures. These are the hazards we face when handling sharp metal offcuts or heavy steel plates.
Second, it includes EN 407, which focuses on thermal risks. This covers burning behavior, contact heat, and protection against small splashes of molten metal.
When a glove is rated under EN 12477, it means it has passed rigorous testing for both heat and durability. Manufacturers then categorize these gloves into two distinct types: Type A and Type B.
These categories tell you exactly how the glove will perform in a real-world shop environment. Knowing the difference prevents you from using a “precision” glove for a high-amperage project that could cause burns.
What Are Type A Welding Gloves?
Type A gloves are the “heavy hitters” of the welding world. They are designed for processes that generate significant heat, heavy sparks, and high levels of UV radiation.
You will typically find these gloves used for MIG (GMAW) and Stick (SMAW) welding. They are also the preferred choice for plasma cutting and heavy grinding tasks in the garage.
These gloves are usually made from thicker split cowhide or goatskin with reinforced palms. This thickness provides a massive thermal barrier between your skin and the molten puddle.
The trade-off for this protection is dexterity. Type A gloves are often bulkier and stiffer than their counterparts, making it harder to pick up small parts or manipulate thin wire.
However, for most general fabrication, the protection is worth the bulk. If you are welding 1/4-inch plate steel in your driveway, a Type A glove is your best friend.
What Are Type B Welding Gloves?
Type B gloves are designed for the “surgeons” of the metalworking world. These are precision gloves intended for TIG (GTAW) welding where control is everything.
In TIG welding, you need to feel the filler rod and have fine motor control over the torch. Type B gloves utilize thinner, softer leathers like top-grain goatskin or sheepskin to allow this movement.
Because the leather is thinner, these gloves offer significantly higher dexterity. You can easily pick up a dropped washer or adjust a small clamp without taking them off.
The downside is that they offer less protection against extreme heat and molten splatter. If you try to use Type B gloves for high-amperage Stick welding, you will feel the heat almost instantly.
They are perfect for thin-gauge projects, automotive bodywork, and artistic metal sculpture. If the work is delicate, Type B is the way to go.
The Critical Comparison: en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves
When comparing en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves, the primary difference lies in the balance between protection and flexibility. Type A is built for endurance, while Type B is built for finesse.
Type A gloves must meet higher minimum requirements for abrasion and tear resistance. They are designed to withstand the rough handling of heavy steel and the constant friction of shop work.
Conversely, Type B gloves are tested for a higher level of finger dexterity. This is measured by how small of a pin you can pick up while wearing the glove.
Type A gloves also require better insulation against convective heat. This is the heat that travels through the air from the arc to your hand, which is much more intense in MIG and Stick welding.
While both types protect against small splashes of molten metal, Type A is generally more resilient. The thicker leather can absorb more “spatter” before the heat reaches your skin.
In short, if you are doing heavy-duty work, go with Type A. If you are doing precision work that requires a light touch, choose Type B.
Technical Testing: What the Numbers Mean
To truly understand en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves, you need to look at the sub-ratings on the tag. You will often see a series of numbers under the EN 388 and EN 407 icons.
Under EN 388, the four numbers represent abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance. Type A gloves usually score higher on the first and third digits.
Under EN 407, the numbers represent things like burning behavior and contact heat. A “Level 1” contact heat rating means the glove protects you up to 100°C for at least 15 seconds.
Type A gloves are often required to meet Level 2 or higher for several thermal tests. Type B gloves may only meet Level 1 because the leather must remain thin for movement.
Always look for the CE mark and the EN 12477 label inside the cuff. If a glove doesn’t have these, it hasn’t been verified by an independent lab for these specific standards.
For a DIYer, these numbers provide peace of mind. They prove that the gear in your shop is actually capable of protecting you from the specific risks of your project.
Choosing Materials: Leather Types and Linings
The material of your glove is just as important as the EN rating. Different leathers offer different benefits for heat resistance and “feel” on the torch. Cowhide is the most common material for Type A gloves. It is durable, heat-resistant, and relatively inexpensive, making it perfect for heavy MIG work. Goatskin is the gold standard for Type B gloves. It contains natural lanolin which makes the leather very supple and resistant to cracking, even after getting hot. Deerskin is another premium option for Type B. It is incredibly soft and provides the best “feel,” but it is also the most expensive and less durable than goat.
Don’t forget the lining. Many Type A gloves use a flannel or wool lining to add an extra layer of heat protection. This is great for comfort but adds to the bulk.
Type B gloves are often unlined or have a very thin palm lining. This ensures that nothing comes between your hand and the feedback from the welding process.
When to Choose Type A for Your Project
If you are a hobbyist welder working on a trailer frame or a garden gate, reach for the Type A gloves. These projects involve long weld beads and high heat.
MIG welding produces a lot of spatter—those tiny balls of molten metal that fly everywhere. The thick split-leather of a Type A glove handles these without burning through.
Stick welding is even more intense. The slag and sparks are constant, and you often find yourself holding the workpiece or bracing your hand near the joint.
Type A is also the best choice for multi-process machines if you only want to buy one pair of gloves. They will cover you for almost everything except the most delicate TIG work.
I always keep a pair of Type A gloves near my chop saw as well. They provide excellent protection against the hot burrs and sharp edges of freshly cut steel.
Safety should always come before convenience. If there is a chance of heavy heat or falling sparks, the bulk of a Type A glove is a small price to pay.
When to Choose Type B for Your Project
Type B gloves shine when you are working on thin materials like sheet metal or stainless steel tubing. In these scenarios, heat control is more about precision than raw insulation.
When TIG welding, you use one hand to hold the torch and the other to “dab” the filler rod. A Type B glove allows you to feel the rod and feed it smoothly into the puddle.
If you are doing automotive restoration, you will likely prefer Type B. Fitting small patches and tacking them into place requires the dexterity these gloves provide.
They are also excellent for tacking projects together. You can handle small magnets, squares, and clamps much easier than you could with heavy MIG gloves.
Just remember that Type B gloves have a limit. If you find yourself doing high-amperage passes on thick aluminum, you might need to switch to a heavier glove or use a “TIG finger” heat shield.
Having the right “touch” can be the difference between a stack-of-primes weld and a mess. Type B gloves give you that touch while still meeting the EN 12477 safety standard.
Safety First: When to Replace Your Gloves
No matter how high the rating, welding gloves are consumable items. They will eventually wear out, and using compromised gloves is a major safety risk.
Check your gloves for “crispy” spots. When leather gets too hot, it loses its oils and becomes brittle. Brittle leather can crack open mid-weld, exposing your skin to the arc.
Look at the stitching. High-quality gloves use Kevlar thread because it won’t melt under heat. If you see seams opening up, it’s time to retire that pair.
Holes are an immediate deal-breaker. Even a tiny pinhole can allow UV radiation to cause a “welder’s burn” on your hand, which feels exactly like a severe sunburn.
When looking at en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves, remember that the thinner Type B gloves will generally wear out faster. They have less sacrificial material to lose.
I recommend keeping a backup pair of each in your shop. There is nothing worse than having a glove fail on a Saturday afternoon when the hardware store is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions About en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves
Can I use Type B gloves for MIG welding?
You can, but it isn’t recommended for long periods. The high heat and spatter from MIG welding will quickly degrade the thin leather and may lead to painful burns.
Are Type A gloves always made of cowhide?
While cowhide is the most common, they can also be made from thick goatskin or pigskin. The “Type A” rating refers to the performance levels, not the specific animal.
What is the main difference in en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves?
The main difference is the trade-off between heat protection and dexterity. Type A offers more heat protection, while Type B offers more finger movement and sensitivity.
Does the cuff length matter for the EN 12477 rating?
Yes, the standard requires a minimum length to protect the wrist and forearm. Most welding gloves have a “gauntlet” style cuff to prevent sparks from falling into the glove.
How can I tell which type my gloves are?
Check the internal tag or the stamped logo on the cuff. It should explicitly state “EN 12477 Type A” or “Type B” alongside the CE mark.
Summary and Pro Tips for Your Workshop
Choosing the right hand protection is one of the simplest ways to improve your welding experience. It allows you to focus on the puddle rather than the heat on your knuckles.
Here are my final takeaways for your shop:
- Buy for the process: Get Type A for MIG/Stick and Type B for TIG.
- Check the tags: Ensure the EN 12477 marking is present for verified safety.
- Prioritize Kevlar: Always look for gloves with Kevlar stitching to prevent seam failure.
- Keep them dry: Wet gloves conduct electricity and heat much faster; never weld with damp gear.
- Store them properly: Keep your gloves away from direct sunlight and moisture to extend the life of the leather.
Understanding en 12477 type a vs type b welding gloves ensures you stay safe while producing clean, strong welds. Whether you are building a custom smoker or repairing a lawnmower deck, the right gloves make the job easier.
Get out into the garage, grab the right pair of gloves, and start melting some metal. Your hands—and your projects—will thank you for it!
