Safety can sometimes be an afterthought for both professional and amateur blacksmiths as they outfit their operation. Furnaces and shaping tools understandably take priority but investing in functional protective gear is critical for blacksmiths of all skill levels.
A quality blacksmith apron is essential to ensure your safety. These simple pieces of clothing add function but, more importantly, protect the user from high heat and dangerous materials.
Inadequate protection will ruin your clothes at best and cause serious safety concerns at worst. This article will review the best blacksmith aprons to consider for completing your blacksmith tool kit.
COMPARISON CHART
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QeeLink Leather Welding Apron
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Waylander Full Length Welding Apron
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Houseables Leather Blacksmith Apron
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Gobanney Blacksmith Apron
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ETBOL 16 Oz Canvas Apron
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Leather Welding Apron
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The QeeLink welding apron is constructed of durable, 100 percent genuine leather for optimal heat and flame protection. At 42 inches long, this apron gives ample coverage below the knee for users of all heights. And although leather this thick is going to be heavier, the cross-back strap design distributes weight to the hips rather than placing it all on your neck and shoulders.
WHAT WE LIKE
This apron has all-around flame resistance, with the durable cowhide leather holding up against wear, heat damage and impact while staying soft to the touch. They support the leather’s durability with Kevlar thread in upgraded stitchwork that outlasts conventional materials.
There are six utility pockets, including a cell phone pocket and a pencil holder, to keep needed tools handy at all times.
PROS
- Durable leather resists heat, flames, sparks and pieces of metal.
- Six convenient pockets.
- Comfortable full length for all users.
CONS
- Heavier than similar aprons.
- Generally more expensive than other listed items.
The Waylander welding apron follows many of QeeLink’s design leads. This is another 100 percent genuine split leather apron reinforced with Kevlar stitching for all-around flame resistance.
WHAT WE LIKE
This full length 40 inch apron extends below the knees for most wearers, with a wrap around the sides giving added protection. The exposed back sports a cross-shaped strap on a simple clip/unclip system.
Two deep front pockets are ideal for welding gloves but can also secure plenty of blacksmithing tools. The top reinforced pocket can keep your glasses, phone and pencils readily accessible.
PROS
- Heavy-duty leather resists heat, flames and impact damage.
- Two large tool pockets.
- Easily adjustable strap system.
CONS
- Relatively high price point.
- Heavier than similar items due to reinforced leather.
Another all-leather option is this Houseables offering, which stays competitive with its own supple genuine leather model built with Kevlar stitching. With its bolstered support at major stress points, this apron is designed to break in without breaking down.
WHAT WE LIKE
The X back strap allows an easy-to-customize fit and its optional waist strap gives the wearer stress-free maneuverability. Two top pockets for cell phone or pencil storage complete this solid design.
PROS
- Relatively inexpensive leather option.
- Top accessory pockets keep cell phones, glasses and pens on hand.
CONS
- Fewer utility pockets than other options.
- Basic nylon straps are prone to wear.
The Gobanny blacksmith apron brings smart storage functions to a comfortable design. This handcrafted apron uses a 25-ounce wax infused canvas instead of leather, making it lightweight but still durable enough to protect your body and clothing from the blacksmithing elements.
WHAT WE LIKE
The real star of the Gobanney blacksmith apron is its storage:
- 2 dual hammer loops.
- Towel ring.
- Phone pocket.
- Pencil pocket.
- 2 large tool pockets.
- 2 lateral front pockets.
It can carry a lot, and Gobanney retains its comfort even with heavy loads due to the comfortable shoulder pads and cross back strap.
PROS
- Large number of storage pockets.
- Quick click-lock fastener.
- Comes with microfiber cloth.
CONS
- Small pockets and belt loops limit the tools it can hold.
- Shorter 34 inch length limits protective coverage.
For a simple, inexpensive yet utilitarian blacksmith apron, ETBOL presents their lightweight canvas model. It may be simple in design and relatively modest in sizing but this apron gives plenty of comfort and convenience while it protects.
WHAT WE LIKE
There are six total pockets for fast access to accessories and tools. The ETBOL only measures about 30 inches long, but the average user will find it far easier to maneuver and stand for prolonged periods than heavier, more expensive options.
PROS
- Inexpensive yet durable and functional.
- Small size benefits maneuverability.
CONS
- Short 30 inch length provides minimal protection.
- Basic tie back is less secure and more time-consuming than click straps
Rounding out the all-leather options is this split leg design from QeeLink. This 42 inch apron features heat-resistant cowhide sewn with Kevlar for strength and longevity.
WHAT WE LIKE
This split leg apron is designed for maximum coverage without sacrificing range of motion. The full length of 52 inches is enough to get close to the feet for many wearers.
PROS
- Full length coverage with heavy-duty leather.
- Three utility pockets for small items.
CONS
- Straps are time-consuming to adjust and fasten.
- Prone to rips from flexing.
Our Pick for Best Blacksmith Apron
Thanks to its six utility pockets, the QeeLink Leather Welding Apron beats out the other all-leather options as the most heavy-duty and functional protective gear. It may be a little more expensive, but for the superior heat and damage-resistance and convenient function over many hours of use, this apron is well worth the money. For more buyer’s tips, follow our blog or contact us with questions.
