K2980-M - Lincoln Electric Premium Leather MIG/Stick Welding Gloves, Medium (K2980-M)

Technical Overview of Lincoln Electric K2980-M

The Lincoln Electric K2980-M Premium Leather MIG/Stick Welding Gloves are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of industrial welding environments. This personal protective equipment (PPE) utilizes a composite construction of leather types to optimize the trade-off between tactile sensitivity and abrasion resistance. The main body of the glove is fabricated from lightweight, supple grain cowhide. Grain leather, being the outer layer of the hide, retains the natural fiber structure, offering superior tensile strength and flexibility compared to split leather. This allows the operator to maintain fine motor control, essential for manipulating MIG guns and Stick electrode holders with precision.

To address the high mechanical stress and thermal exposure associated with MIG and Stick welding processes, the K2980-M incorporates strategically placed split cowhide reinforcements. Split leather, derived from the fibrous underlying layer of the hide, is denser and provides enhanced resistance to abrasion and direct heat. These reinforcements are applied to high-wear areas, effectively extending the service life of the glove without compromising the overall flexibility required for ergonomic operation. The structural integrity of the glove is further secured through the use of Nomex and Kevlar stitching. These aramid fibers are selected for their exceptional thermal stability and resistance to degradation, ensuring that seams remain intact even when exposed to sparks and spatter.

Thermal management is a critical specification for this SKU. The internal architecture features a flame-retardant foam lining. This layer acts as a thermal barrier, insulating the user's hand from the radiant heat generated by the welding arc and the conductive heat from hot workpieces. Complementing the thermal insulation is a soft, sweat-absorbent twill lining. This hygroscopic material manages moisture within the glove, preventing the accumulation of perspiration which can lead to steam burns and user discomfort. The glove design includes a 5-inch cuff, constructed to provide substantial coverage over the wrist and lower forearm, bridging the gap between the glove and the welding jacket to prevent UV exposure and burn injuries.

The K2980-M is sized as Medium. Proper sizing is critical for safety; a glove that is too loose can snag on equipment, while one that is too tight restricts blood flow and reduces insulation air gaps. The combination of materials—grain cowhide, split cowhide, foam, and twill—creates a multi-layered defense system suitable for amperage ranges typically found in general fabrication, structural welding, and maintenance repair operations.