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Whether you are a professional blacksmith, an apprentice or a starter, you are going to need the proper tools to achieve your desired targets. You need to get the best blacksmith apron to ensure your safety.
Any profession in the world has its own set of tools and blacksmithing is no different. Professions like gardening, cooking, and blacksmithing are becoming hobbies that are attracting new individuals every day. So, it is up to these individuals to better equip themselves properly to reach the level of their idols.
The most obvious instrument you need for reshaping metal (i.e. blacksmithing) would be a furnace and some common tools like a hammer and some tongs. However, after the first couple of tries at blacksmithing, you’re going to find out that your body needs to be protected against the blazing furnace.
This is where blacksmithing aprons come in handy and prove to be a very important investment in your hobby/profession. Irrespective of what you want to work on (knife making, farrier work or anything else) an apron is going to be useful, so it is smart to buy an apron before you start working near a furnace.
Whether you are a professional or a beginner, safety should be your first concern! Buying an apron can keep you safe and away from harm’s way.
Why do you need an apron for blacksmithing?
Blacksmithing is a timely profession having started in 1500 B.C. and continuing to this day. Historians found out that Medieval blacksmiths wore a leather apron over their clothes proving just how integral aprons are to the process of forging metals.
The most obvious use for an apron is as protective gear just like your blacksmithing gloves. It is used to protect your skin from cuts and burns that this hectic activity may administer.
An apron protects you from the sparks that may cause your ordinary clothes to burn which in turn would burn your skin. Thus, aprons are a necessary safety precaution in your workshop.
Protective Efficiency
A good apron may also protect you from accidents that could happen when dealing with knives and other dangerous metal products. A heavy leather apron can deal with the impact of a bursting piece of metal that could have otherwise severely damaged you.
Individuals involved in blacksmithing experienced aprons to be quite useful as they could protect their clothing from the furnace. Without the apron, your clothes might only last a few sessions as they can get damaged by the sparks flying around.
If you have blacksmithing as your hobby, then you probably have sessions after work. This could lead to your work clothes being destroyed if an apron is not employed.
Pro Tip
Going through blacksmithing with just your casual clothing (or your work clothes) is likely to ruin your wardrobe. This would end up destroying your yearly budget as it may force you to buy new clothes. Thus, a small investment (of an apron) might end up doing a world of good for your budget in the long run.
This blacksmith leather apron also adds in the blacksmith’s confidence as they feel like armor is protecting them and they don’t have to protect themselves with a pair of tongs. It gives them the freedom they need to create the best products.
Why do we like it?
Novo Extended PVC Leather Apron comes in at 43 x 29.5 inches with adjustable neck straps so that it can fit any height. It comes in a classic black design and with adjustable straps, it could be the stylish addition your workshop needs.
The apron, along with leather, has also been made with polyvinyl chloride which is synthetic plastic. This gives the apron its structure and helps it in keeping its structure. This means that the apron will not get hard in winter, which some other leather products tend to do.
Enhanced Durability
The Novo Apron is waterproof as well as oilproof for increased durability. An apron must have these qualities if you are to use it in a workshop otherwise it won’t last very long. These qualities ensure that your leather apron will not be damaged/wilted by the water or oil used in your workshop.
It has weak resistance to acid and alkali which means that prolonged exposure to such materials will cause damage to the apron. So, if you are planning to use it alongside acids then this probably is not a good buy for you.
Flexible features
An important quality of this apron is that it is stretchable. Being stretchable can cover most of your lower body too (if you want it too). This way you can protect your pants from getting dirty in the process of forging.
The materials used in the design make this apron very lightweight. This is a good quality to have for a blacksmith as maneuverability is an important aspect of the workshop.
It comes in at a very cheap price, perhaps one of the cheapest on our list. However, the cheap price may translate to a lower quality as it may wear out very quickly. Heavy-duty work is very likely to wear it out very quickly thus it makes for a great beginner’s apron.
Pros
Affordable apron for a beginner
Waterproof and oilproof
Stretchable, it can protect your lower body
Multipurpose, can be used elsewhere in the house
Cons
Prone to wear out if performing heavy-duty work (high temperatures)
Neck-straps may cause your neck to cramp up after a prolonged usage.
- Built to Last - Hudson Durable Goods makes top-quality aprons for men and women alike. Our waterproof apron is composed of heavy-duty 16 oz waxed canvas fabric, made to withstand wear and tear
- Customized Comfort - Get all-day comfort from our crossback apron with its customized fit. It features a long and adjustable strap of up to 50” and measures 27” wide x 34” tall for full coverage and protection
- Tool Pockets - This apron with pockets comes with a chest pocket to access your phone or pens easily, a kangaroo-style pocket to keep your tools within reach, and a right hip loop to hang your towel
- Professional Style - Combine elegance, comfort, and functionality with this work apron no matter what your profession is. This waxed canvas utility apron comes in a variety of colors to choose from
- Extensive Uses: Our multi-purpose apron with pockets also works well as a woodworking apron, chef apron, kitchen apron, cooking apron, barber apron, hair stylist apron, pottery apron, stylist apron, shop apron, & more
Why do we like it?
This Heavy Duty Work Apron (affiliate link) is Hudson Durable Goods’ flagship apron designed to withstand your blacksmithing escapades. It comes in two colors and has a deluxe edition that has a slightly newer design despite simulating the medieval blacksmith apron.
It is built from waxed canvas and reinforced with heavy metals rivets and grommets. This model also has double-stitched pockets to add to the overall utility of the product.
Moderate Weight
It is slightly heavier than the Novo apron weighing in at around 1 lb or 16 oz. The material used in its production allows it to be water-resistant.
The design of the straps used is cross-back straps that distribute the weight of the apron around the body. Unlike conventional aprons that have a neck strap, this one has used cross-back straps to avoid causing neck cramps and marks from extended usage.
This apron can cover individuals that are five feet tall to individuals that are six and a half feet tall. This wide range is achieved through the different sizes that the company provides its users. From M to XXXL this company is going the extra mile to satisfy its customers.
Durability
The item is waxed so after some usage it would be time to re-wax it which may be an added chore in your busy schedule. Waxing allows you to prolong the life of your product and so it will be necessary to re-wax it if the wax wears off after some time.
Acquiring an ample amount of praise from its users, it seems that the company delivers on its claims of a “heavy-duty” apron. It comes in at a slightly higher price point than most aprons in the market but if you’re in the game for the long run then this investment seems logical.
Pros
Cross-back straps to distribute the weight of the apron
Can be used for heavy-duty work
Has pockets for added utility
Stylish and professional looking design
Has a huge range of sizes for you to choose the correct fit
Has a range of users like blacksmiths, woodturners, gunsmiths, and carpenters
Cons
Comes in at a higher price-point
Re-waxing is an added chore and will cost money to buy wax
Pockets may require regular cleaning
The Best Lightweight Blacksmith Apron
This genuine split leather shop apron made with brown leather is a versatile apron with comfortable design and flexible use.
Why do we like it?
The HAWK A1001a (affiliate link) is a lightweight apron, weighing in at 12 oz or 0.75 lbs. In fact, it is the lightest apron on this list.
It has a light tan color coupled with a conventional design. The straps also resemble shoestrings making the apron look like a knock off. However, this design has been used to make the apron as light as possible.
Flexible
The company recognizes that blacksmiths value maneuverability around their workshop and have capitalized on this fact. The company also goes with the principle of “one size fits all” and therefore does not offer more than one size for purchase. The one size that does exist is 19 inches wide and 32 inches long.
These dimensions would be enough to cover an average person. For a skinny person the leftover apron can be folded behind their backs with the strap and for a healthier individual, only the straps can go behind their back. This seems to be the adjustable method employed by this design.
The apron is made from pure leather and so it may be stiff initially but that is bound to lessen after some use.
Utility Design
The apron comes with two huge pockets to increase the utility it provides. This can be useful if you want to keep your tools handy. Other times it may be a headache to clean pockets that collect hot metal bits.
It comes with double stitched seams so that the product is not prone to tears. This not only makes the fabric stronger but keeps it from fraying. This also adds to the longevity of the apron.
Pro Tip
The company claims that this item can be used for both metalwork and woodwork, however, due to the design, it seems like it favors woodworking more than blacksmithing. It comes at a very reasonable price that seems to be the midpoint of all the prices in the market.
Pros
Very lightweight, high maneuverability
Classic, minimalistic design
Big pockets for blacksmithing tools
Mid-range in terms of prices
Straps that go around the back and not on your neck
Dual stitched seams
Cons
Pockets may seem to be a hassle to clean
The design may seem outdated
Only one size available
Why do we like it?
The Handymen Waxed Canvas Apron (affiliate link) is the cheapest apron on our list mainly due to its minimalistic, yet effective, design. It weighs in at 1 lb. placing it in the “medium weight” category of aprons.
This company has also employed the cross-back straps that go over the shoulders. This design helps distribute the weight of the apron making it easier to wear for longer a long time. The straps are made of cotton, like the canvas itself.
Durable Structure
The Handymen Waxed Canvas Apron is made from a waxed cotton canvas that has bass grommets attached for the straps to pass through. The rugged waxed canvas will require you to re-wax it after the first coating has been worn away. This waxing will help increase its lifespan and make it more effective
This durable apron is water-resistant and not waterproof. So,the wax helps keep the apron resistant to water. As long as the apron is waxed it will prove to be resistant to water.
It has just one size that is known as the “universal” size and is said to fit everyone as the straps will adjust the leftover part of the apron. Along with just one size it has comes in one color keeping in line with the company’s minimalistic approach.
Simple Pockets
The product comes with a simple pocket attached to the front of the apron that could help you in securing your tools while working. The tools, however, may make the apron heavier and affect your maneuverability.
The great thing about this apron is that it is used by almost everyone who requires an apron (not just blacksmiths). It is widely used by gardeners, bartenders, mechanics, technicians, artists, and painters.
An issue with this apron is that it is not made of leather and that may affect your safety when working with hot metals. The cotton may not be able to protect you if it is not properly waxed and that could prove harmful for you.
Pros
Cheapest apron on the market
Has a wide variety of users like gardeners, bartenders, and blacksmiths
The minimalistic design may prove to be attractive
Cons
Only available in one size.
Cotton product may not be useful in heavy-duty blacksmithing.
Must be re-waxed regularly.
The wax will also cost you money.
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION: Heat & Flame-Resistant heavy duty split cowhide leather welding apron. Extra Long full coverage apron protect you until the knee when you are working.
- MORE DURABLE: Made of thick split cowhide for durability. And it is wear & flame-resistant for protection from flame and spatter. Sewing with strong, heat resistant US Kevlar thread. We pay attention to every detail, emphasis on quality.
- TOOL POCKETS: 6 pockets for tools and work accessories. Include one cell phone pocket and one pencil pocket. We offer customer great convenience as much as possible.
- MULTI - FUNCTION. Ther leather apron is not only for welding but also useful for many other work and home tasks. Idea for tools apron vest, shop apron, utility apron, work apron, bbq apron, grilling apron, woodworkers apron, workshop apron, garage apron, lead apron, personalized apron, mechanics apron, machine apron, lathe work apron, metalwork apron, metalsmith apron, blacksmiths apron, gardening apron, pocket apron, bulk apron, farrier apron. Unique gift apron for men, women, mothers, fathers.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: If you're not COMPLETELY SATISFIED with our product, you will get a 100% COMPLETE REFUND.
Why do we like it?
QueeLink’s Leather Workshop Apron is a perfect apron for a welder or a blacksmith as it is made from 100% leather. Leather is an integral part of blacksmithing aprons as it is heat resistant and protects you against those sparks and burns.
This apron has a superior design that is both modern and convenient. It comes in a vintage brown color which compliments the design and the leather finish brilliantly.
It has six tool pockets as its name suggests. The pockets include one cell phone pocket and one pencil pocket. Dividing things into these pockets is going to prove convenient for you as you are working.
The pockets may become a hassle as you would have to clean them regularly otherwise, they can accumulate small pieces of metal from the forging process.
The cow-hide leather used in the production of this apron is heat and flame resistant making it the perfect fit for your blacksmithing needs. This apron is sewed with Kevlar threads which are also heat resistant.
Heat Resistant
Most aprons do not have heat resistant stitching which proves to wear out those aprons. This apron, however, is completely heat resistant which is why it costs more than other aprons do.
Even though it is made from heavy-duty leather it is still very supple and proves very comfortable to wear.
Having used pure leather in production this item proves heavier than its competitors in the market weighing almost 2lbs. It could become heavier as you use the pockets to store your tools.
Additional Information
To combat this heavy nature of the apron they have the “cross-back” straps to distribute the weight around your body. This also helps prevent neck strain which may be caused by straps that go around your neck.
It has a higher price point than most aprons in the market but that should not deter you from making this purchase. Having a superior quality and being designed just for blacksmithing makes it the right choice for your endeavor.
QueeLink’s Leather Workshop Apron seems to be the best choice for a blacksmith as it combines functionality with safety at a reasonable price point. The quality you get at this price point will leave you satisfied for sure!
Pros
100% leather, for increased safety
Cross back straps to distribute weight
6 pockets for increased utility
Sleek modern design
Comes in many sizes
Cons
Heavier than most aprons, may affect maneuverability
Pockets may prove a hassle to clean
A higher price point than other aprons
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION: Heat & Flame-Resistant heavy duty split cowhide leather welding apron. Extra Long ( 24 inches wide x 42 inches tall ) full coverage apron protect you until the knee when you are working.
- MORE DURABLE: Made of thick split cowhide for durability. And it is wear & flame-resistant for protection from flame and spatter. Sewing with strong, heat resistant US Kevlar thread. We pay attention to every detail, emphasis on quality.
- TOOL POCKETS: 6 pockets for tools and work accessories. Include one cell phone pocket and one pencil pocket. We offer customer great convenience as much as possible.
- MULTI - FUNCTION. They are not only for welding but also useful for many other work and home tasks. Idea for tools apron vest, shop apron, utility apron, work apron, bbq apron, grilling apron, woodworkers apron, workshop apron, garage apron, lead apron, personalized apron, mechanics apron, machine apron, lathe work apron, metalwork apron, metalsmith apron, blacksmiths apron, gardening apron, pocket apron, bulk apron, farrier apron. Unique gift apron for men, women, mothers, fathers.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: If you're not COMPLETELY SATISFIED with our product, you will get a 100% COMPLETE REFUND.
Why do we like it?
Leather Welding Apron (affiliate link) is also a QeeLink product like the previous one, however, it has a couple of differences that may prove to be helpful in your activities.
Made from genuine leather, it is also heated and flameproof making it the ideal blacksmithing accessory. The modern design is sleek and complemented beautifully by the brown color that it comes in.
Quality Materials
The cow-hide leather used in the production of this apron is heat and flame resistant making it the perfect fit for your blacksmithing needs. This apron is sewed with Kevlar threads which are also heat resistant.
Having used pure leather in production this item proves heavier than its competitors in the market. The added size also makes it heavier than the previous QeeLink model.
Sleek Design
To combat this heavy nature of the apron they have installed the “cross-back” straps to distribute the weight around your body. Using a design that would stretch the apron around your neck would cause you severe discomfort and pain as this is a heavy apron.
The size is the main difference between this apron and the previous one. This one comes 24 x 42 inches making it a convenient apron to cover almost all your body. If you seem to be injuring your legs a lot during your blacksmithing activities, then this would be an ideal companion for you.
Customized Size
It is specifically made for tall individuals that seemed to be unsatisfied by all the other aprons in the market. It is a warming thing to see QeeLink facilitating a very small percentage of the market so efficiently with high-quality products like these.
The added leather causes it to be pricier than all other aprons on the list. However, if you are a tall person needing more protection around your legs then it is essential that you invest in this product. The quality that you will get for its price is fantastic.
Pros
100% leather, for increased safety
Cross back straps to distribute weight
6 pockets for increased utility
Sleek modern design
Comes in many sizes
Cons
Heavier than most aprons, may affect maneuverability
Pockets may prove a hassle to clean
A higher price point than other aprons
- 1.Tools apron ,Made of thick split cowhide for durability. And it is wear & flame-resistant for protection from flame and welding spatter. Sewing with strong, heat resistant fireproof thread. ( 23 inches wide x 35 inches tall ) full coverage apron protect you until the knee when you are working.
- 2. Adjustable harness system to prevent neck pain, and ensure proper fit and weight displacement.Long straps allow for a range of adjustments up to a 68 inch waist. It can even be covered with thick winter clothes, or a fatter person
- 3.Pockets with buttons to prevent tools from falling out.
- 4.Ideal choice for Men or Women(maker, welder, fabricator, handyman) as a carpenter apron, blacksmiths apron,garage apron, mechanics apron, gardening apron, farrier apron, For regular use for everything from torch work, metalworking, woodcarving, sanding, plasma cutting, metal art, smelting, this apron is a ‘must have’ in many workshop.
- 5.Unique gift for guys and fathers.
Why do we like it?
Safety Shop’s Leather Apron (affiliate link) is 23 inches wide to 35 inches tall making it a moderately sized apron that would fit most individuals. Its unique design is coupled with an uncharacteristic color that has its own wonderful charm.
It is a high utility product in that middle-ranged price of the market of blacksmithing aprons. They have made changes to their design after testing this apron out for a few months. The newer design seems to be fetching a satisfactory response.
Easy Wear
They have used the cross-back straps to cause less of a neck strain and efficiently distribute the weight of the apron across the wearer’s body. This adjustable harness design also allows for perfect fitting and proper weight displacement as well.
It weighs in at 1.5 lbs. This is a bit heavier than other aprons in the market, however, being all leather increases the overall safety it provides.
Additional Information
The extended strap can stretch up to 68 inches wide which can even fit a person in winter clothes. This adjustable system proves to be convenient for their “one size fits all” mentality.
A brilliant addition to the design of this apron is the buttons on the pockets. These buttons can prevent tools from falling during a hectic activity. Another use for this is to stop dust and pieces of metal from going in which can prove to be a hassle to clean out later.
Pro Tip
At a mid-range price point, this apron is an ideal companion for men and women due to its adjustable and convenient design. Not only can Safety Shop’s Leather Apron (affiliate link) be used for metal forging, but it can be used for gardening, grilling, wood carving, and other such activities.
Pros
Pockets with buttons, easy to clean pockets
Adjustable straps and a convenient “one size fits all” design
Mid ranged price point for an “all-leather” product proves to be a good deal
Cross-back straps help distribute weight
Sleek design adjusted according to customer response
Cons
Weight may affect maneuverability
Comes in only one size, but that size is very adjustable
- MAIN MATERIAL and FEATUR : Leather material with double stitching to provide high abrasion resistance and heat resistant.
- HEAT and ABRASION RESISTANT : Extra Long ( 24 inches wide x 36 inches tall ) full coverage apron protect you until the knee when you are working.Potect your body in contact with high heat, rough, sparks, sharp , flame object and so on.
- FLEXIBLE DESIGN : The straps are adjustable to fit many body types. And it is useful for carpenters, woodworking tools and accessories, woodshop, workshop, garage, machinist apron, lathe work, leatherwork, metalwork, light welding.
- TOOL POCKETS: 6 pockets for tools and work accessories. Include one cell phone pocket and one pencil pocket. We offer customer plenty of durable pockets to hold your tools, nails, pencils, and phone.
- MORE DURABLE WITH MULTIFUNCTIONS : Offer high temperature protection with superior abrasion resistant, it's great for welding, gardening, furnace melting, high temperature work, oven, foundry, metal casting, laboratory and more to protect your body from heat, steam, sharp edges, and ideal for the cement factory, petrochemical and refining, glass and ceramic manufacturing, welding and heat resistant industries.
Why do we like it?
This Welding Apron Flame-Resistant (affiliate link) is also completely made with leather; thus, it is an ideal blacksmithing companion. This leather material is going to provide you the protection you need during your blacksmithing escapades.
Heat Resistant
The leather makes the apron flame resistant and heat resistant. This thick leather layer can also protect against sharp objects that may fly your way during accidents.
It has six pockets to help divide your tools so that you can work efficiently. This added convenience compliments the design as which would otherwise be plain and minimalistic.
Its 24 x 36-inch frame can fit many individuals easily. An important thing to note here is that it only comes in one size.
Sleek Design
This one size, however, comes with adjustable straps that can fit any body type. This adjustable system fits in with the cross-back straps that help ease the strain caused to your neck as it divides the weight of the apron evenly.
It is slightly heavier than other leather aprons in the market weighing in at almost 2 lbs. This factor could affect your maneuverability around the workshop.
The mid-range price point seems to be very low for the type of quality you are getting with this product. It seems to please everyone who tries it out. It can certainly be the bargain to kickstart your blacksmithing hobby.
Pros
Adjustable straps and a convenient “one size fits all” design
Mid ranged price point for an “all-leather” product proves to be a good deal
Cross-back straps help distribute weight
Cons
Weight may affect maneuverability
Comes in only one size, but that size is very adjustable
- HEAVY-DUTY WELDING LEATHERS: Constructed of genuine split leather hide and reinforced in areas that have more stress, this is the best leather apron for fire resistant protection. We use high-quality flame resistant Kevlar stitching for an even greater level of security.
- FULL COVERAGE FOR A HIGH DEGREE OF SAFETY: This leather apron for men and women covers you from upper chest to below your knees. It’s crafted with heavy-duty harness strapping across the back that’s easy to adjust and clip/unclip. It stays securely in place, ensuring you stay safe.
- COMFORTABLE AND COOL: The open-back design of this heavy-duty apron means you’ll stay cooler under the intense heat of your work. Use it with Waylander’s welding sleeves (sold separately), then remove the sleeves between projects, but do other tasks with the apron on.
- FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT: When you need mobility, you need this apron. Ours is fantastic for spark and spatter protection, as well as flexibility. When your welding clothing and gear is flexible, you won’t be encumbered and interrupted during your concentration.
- LARGE BIB POCKETS: Of course you need a place to slide your welding equipment and tools to keep them handy, so we sewed on two big and deep front pockets.
Why do we like it?
Waylander’s Leather Apron (affiliate link) is one of the most stylish aprons in the market. If you don’t want to compromise you looks then this luxury apron might just be the perfect purchase for you.
This product was made for heavy-duty work as it uses split cow leather for extreme comfort and safety. Using leather makes this product flame resistant. It is also a long-lasting apron that does not shy away from rough working conditions.
Ergonomic Design
Its design is classified as “ergonomic.” It has a buckle at the end of its cross-back straps to make it easier for you to wear it yourself. The straps evenly distribute the weight over your entire body so that your neck does not withstand prolonged damage.
The design is complemented by the hemmed Kevlar. The Kevlar provides the extra strength and flame resistance needed to make a durable product. The white Kevlar is in fascinating contrast with the black apron providing a stylish finish.
Portable and Lightweight
It weighs at about 1.5 lbs. making it one of the heavier aprons out there. This increased weight may cause decreased maneuverability. However, once used to the apron the user can move more freely.
Its 25 x 40-inch frame is designed to fit any body type. The added adjustable straps help achieve this goal of fitting anyone.
Pro Tip
At a luxurious price point, you are getting a quality product that is sure to impress anyone. This long-lasting apron can prove to be a smart investment as you may not need another investment in the safety department for years to come.
Pros
100% leather, for increased safety
Cross back straps to distribute weight
Sleek modern design that is stylish as well
Cons
Heavier than most aprons, may affect maneuverability
A higher price point than other aprons
Only available in one size
Why do we like it?
This Leather Welding Apron by BlueFire Tools (affiliate link) also comes at a higher price point than its competitors but is at a lower price than Waylander’s apron.
This apron is made from genuine cowhide and proves to be resistant to the most gruesome furnace. Its heavy-duty qualities include being flame resistant and heat resistant.
Optimal Protection
It has a thickness of more than 1.2mm to assure that you are well protected to suit the function of a DIY blacksmith apron. This thickness, however, adds to the weight making it weigh in at 1.7 lbs. The heavier apron can take some getting used to.
The apron measures up to 24 inches wide and 36 inches tall. These dimensions are ideal to fit average-sized individuals. The adjustable straps help to fit the apron on to skinnier or healthier individuals.
The company claims that their one size can fit everyone, men and women alike. It is a full-apron for the high level of coverage bounded by cross-back straps to ensure even distribution of weight.
Flexible Application
It has many uses as it can be used for torchwork, welding, forging, woodwork, and construction as well. You can also use it in home-improvement projects as it can protect you from sharp objects.
It is reinforced with two pockets to help make it easier for you to carry tools around your workshop. The pockets can prove to be a hassle to clean as they may gather sawdust, metal shavings, or even hot bits of metal.
Additional Information
They have a 30-day money-back guarantee, which shows the level of trust they place in their product.
This apron comes in at a slightly higher price point than its competitors however its utility proves that it can still be a great deal. If your specifications fit its features then it may be the right buy for you.
Pros
100% leather, for increased safety
Cross back straps to distribute weight
Great design accompanied by a neutral brown color
Cons
Heavier than most aprons, may affect maneuverability
A higher price point than other aprons
Only one size, but is very adjustable
The research
What factors to consider when buying an apron?
Care and Maintenance Tips for Blacksmith Apron
What kind of straps should an apron have?
What size should I be getting?
How to keep my leather apron clean?
Are there different patterns for blacksmith aprons?
What leather should you use for a blacksmith apron?
How to make a leather blacksmith apron?
Who should get this?
The blacksmith apron is an essential protective gear. Aside from the fact that it makes blacksmiths and other craftsmen appear professional, it also helps protect themselves and original wear from primary dangers. There are many blacksmith aprons for sale and you have flexible options to suit your need.
You should buy a blacksmith apron if you are a professional blacksmith. In fact, it should be part of the priorities to get as a skilled blacksmith.
You should also buy a blacksmith apron if you are an aspiring blacksmith or an apprentice. It will protect you from a lot of potential dangers that come with various blacksmithing process.
If you often visit the blacksmith workshop and spend time there, you should buy a blacksmith apron as well. Hazards in the blacksmith workshop do not spare professionals away from visitors.
Engineers, mechanics, and other artisans that work with flame or potentially dangerous flying materials should also buy a blacksmith apron.
How We Picked
When making an important purchase like this you need to assess your requirements before making the decision because there are several leather blacksmith apron for sale.
If you are a professional, then you must consider looking at the lower end of the list as it has some of the best aprons. These aprons provide the best security but at a higher price point. They are also not prone to rough working conditions and thus ensures longevity.
If you are a hobbyist, then you may prefer looking at the middle selections ranging from 3-4. These aprons are not only in the mid-range price point but also give adequate security when carrying out your activities. These aprons may not last in the long run but since you are using them sparingly, they may last longer than what they were intended to do.
Pro Tip
The beginners may prefer looking at the two cheapest options on our list. You may do this to clear out any doubts you have about the hobby. If you want to test it out for a while then these may be your best options as you will not be wasting a lot of money on a high-end product.
Likewise, there are some factors that you must consider to help you choose the most suitable apron for you. These factors are duly considered for each of these products to help us get the best blacksmith apron for you. These factors include;
Strap System
There are two basic strap systems for blacksmiths aprons: X or Y straps. The significant difference between X and Y straps is that the X strap system will rest the apron’s weight on your shoulders while the Y strap system places the more considerable weight of the apron on your hips.
While both can work effectively, it is best to choose the most comfortable one. There are some blacksmith leather apron with cross back straps and some with blacksmith apron leather with leg straps. The choice is dependent on your comfort.
Leather Type
The leather type of the apron you are buying determines many things about the blacksmith apron. It determines the extent of comfort, the level of protection it can offer, as well as its durability.
The leather of your blacksmith apron should be determined by the function you want the apron to perform for you. You can decide to go for a leather type that will prevent your clothes from getting dirty or offer full protective function.
Thickness:
The thickness of your blacksmith aprons should be comfortable enough for you to carry out your blacksmithing process easily. 7-9 ounces thick leather is too thick for a blacksmith apron, and 2-3 ounces thick leather will be too soft for a blacksmith apron. The optimum thickness of a blacksmith apron is between 5-6 ounces.
Ergonomics:
Ergonomics is the level of fitting the blacksmith apron will have on you. Ergonomically speaking, a good apron should hug your body to limit interference with your movement or work process.
The ergonomic design should also let your legs split easily, allow you to use tongs between your legs, and allow other basic blacksmith movements. Other ergonomic factors you should check out include quick release of straps, quickly adjustable straps, easy cleaning of aprons, etc.
Apron Fit:
The fitting of an apron includes its size, length, and weight. You must check out all these parameters and ensure that they suit you and the blacksmith’s work.
What factors to consider when buying an apron?
There are plenty of factors involving this factor as discussed throughout the reviews. Price is a very important factor, but safety and comfort are close factors too.
Depending on your interaction with the furnace, you need to make a logical decision on what you should value more.
Professionals, who interact a lot with their furnaces, need more safety and utility so the price is not a matter for them.
For hobbyists and beginners, the price may be an issue so you should look accordingly.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Blacksmith Apron
Blacksmith aprons last longer and serve you better when you maintain it properly. Below are some easy blacksmith apron care to improve the durability of your apron.
- Wash your blacksmith apron to prevent accumulation of dirt. No machine washing is required, manual washing is enough to keep your blacksmith apron clean.
- Do not wash with soaps, cleaners, or detergents to prevent damage of the leather.
- You can regularly use natural leather wax to keep your leather at optimum condition.
- Do not keep sharp objects in the pocket of your blacksmith apron.
- Neatly fold and keep your blacksmith apron away from direct sunlight, dust, and moisture.
Are pockets important?
Depending on where tools are in your workshop, pockets can be useful.
You need to know these pockets become a gathering place for metal shavings which then become a hassle for you to clean. This can become an added chore which may lead you exhausted of the pockets.
What kind of straps should an apron have?
To be comfortable you should not feel any strain on your neck due to the apron. To avoid this, you should avoid buying aprons that have straps that go around your neck.
Most of the aprons discussed here have cross back straps which are much easier to wear for a prolonged period.
What size should I be getting?
If the company only has one size, then it is probably with adjustable straps and so you may not worry about the size as it is bound to fit you.
If the company has many sizes, then you need to buy according to your height as the apron should cover your lower body as well.
How to keep my leather apron clean?
Do not fold your leather keep it rolled. Rolling will prevent it from having any creases that may wilt the leather.
Use a damp cloth to clean the leather. Do not clean spots clean the entire apron. Cleaning spots may make the rest of the apron react differently to your cleaning the next time.
Do not use furniture polishes, cleaning solvents or any kind of oil on your leather apron as it may jeopardize the quality of the material.
After you are done cleaning with the damp cloth, dry it with a soft cloth. You may end your cleaning by spraying on some suede spray.
Are there different patterns for blacksmith aprons?
There are different leather blacksmith apron patterns, and it is one of the evidences of blacksmith apron history. In fact, there are apparent differences in the 18th-century blacksmith apron pattern and 19th-century blacksmith apron pattern. But it does not affect the primary function of the apron.
The design largely influences the blacksmith apron’s physical appearance and attractiveness, and it sometimes affects the texture and thickness.
What leather should you use for a blacksmith apron?
There are different types of leathers, and each one has its specific use. The best leather for blacksmith apron is chrome-tanned and super-soft leather. They are suitable for blacksmith apron because it provides both comfort and protection.
How to make a leather blacksmith apron?
Making a blacksmith apron is a craft on its own. It will be easier if you have essential tailoring skills. Otherwise, it is best to contact a tailor or buy an already made blacksmith apron from various stores and outlets.
You can go for a handmade blacksmith apron or handcrafted blacksmith apron.
Conclusion
Blacksmithing requires dealing with fire and you need to think a little bit before joining in on the fun. You need to cloth yourself appropriately for the job at hand. To do this you need to start with an apron.
You may need other items gradually, but an apron is the most essential tool in your blacksmithing workshop.
Also, remember to keep your hair and beard tucked away as the spark will fly when you’re hammering a burning piece of metal.
You need to be responsible for your own safety and thus test out the products you buy in a safe environment before employing them in your workshop. It is better to be safe than to be sorry!
The product reviews are based on the experiences of people. These experiences may differ from what you experience with the product and so we encourage you to think about your purchase before you make it.
Whether you are a professional or a new starter always remember to follow the baseline precautions when working with hire in or near your house. Always keep a fire blanket or an extinguisher near your workplace if one of your safety garments fail you.
Make a smart choice as it can prove to save a lot of money for you in the future. Buying a lack-luster apron can prove to be costly in the long run!
