BBQ Gloves: Your Guide to Heat-Resistant Hand Protection

A BBQ glove is a specialized glove that shields your hand from the grill’s heat. It’s constructed from heat-resistant materials such as leather, silicone, fabric, and wood.

In this guide, I’ll cover the basics of a BBQ glove, including its purpose, usage, and key features to consider when purchasing one.

BBQ Gloves: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Pair

BBQ gloves are a type of heat-resistant gloves designed to protect your hands and forearms from the high temperatures of a grill or smoker. Unlike regular kitchen gloves or oven mitts, BBQ gloves are meant to handle hot food and allow you to reach farther over the surface of your grill. They come in a wide variety of materials, including leather, silicone, fabric, and wood, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

What types of BBQ gloves are available?

BBQ gloves come in a wide variety of types, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of BBQ gloves:

• Leather gloves: These gloves are typically made from cowhide or pigskin and offer a lot of durability and heat resistance. They are a great choice for handling hot coals or wood, as they can resist sparks and embers.
• Silicone gloves: These gloves are made from a flexible, heat-resistant material that allows you to handle hot food directly. They are easy to clean and can be used in wet conditions, making them a good choice for handling fish or other slippery items.
• Fabric gloves: These gloves are typically made from a blend of heat-resistant materials, such as Kevlar or Nomex. They offer a lot of flexibility and comfort, but may not be as durable as leather or silicone gloves.
• Wood gloves: These gloves are made from a type of wood that is naturally heat-resistant, such as hickory or oak. They offer a lot of grip and are a good choice for handling large cuts of meat or heavy items.
• Heavy-duty gloves: These gloves are designed for handling extremely hot or heavy items, such as cast iron pans or large cuts of meat. They are typically made from a combination of materials, such as leather and Kevlar, and offer a lot of protection and durability.

What should I consider when looking for BBQ gloves?

When choosing BBQ gloves, there are several factors to consider, including:

• Heat resistance: Make sure the gloves you choose can handle the temperatures you will be working with. Some gloves are rated for higher temperatures than others, so be sure to check the product specifications.
• Comfort: Look for gloves that are comfortable to wear and allow you to move your hands and fingers freely. Gloves that are too tight or too loose can make it difficult to handle food or utensils.
• Length: Consider the length of the gloves, as longer gloves can offer more protection but may be less comfortable to wear. Gloves that cover your forearms are a good choice if you will be working with hot coals or wood.
• Material: Choose a material that is appropriate for the type of cooking you will be doing. Leather gloves are a good choice for handling hot coals or wood, while silicone gloves are better for handling hot food directly.
• Price: BBQ gloves can range in price from very cheap to quite expensive, depending on the materials and features. Consider your budget and needs when choosing a pair of gloves.

How do I clean BBQ gloves?

The best way to clean BBQ gloves depends on the type of gloves you have. Here are some general tips:

• Leather gloves: Wipe them clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not soak them in water or put them in the washing machine.
• Silicone gloves: Wash them in warm, soapy water and rinse well. Hang them up to dry.
• Fabric gloves: Follow the care instructions on the label, as some fabric gloves may be machine washable.
• Wood gloves: Wipe them clean with a damp cloth and let them air dry.

Are BBQ gloves worth it?

If you do a lot of grilling or smoking, BBQ gloves are definitely worth considering. They offer a lot of benefits compared to regular kitchen gloves or oven mitts, and can make handling hot food and grilling tools (here are the best sets) a lot easier and safer. While they may be more expensive than regular gloves, the additional safety and convenience they offer make them a worthwhile investment.

Get Your Hands on the Best BBQ Gloves at a Reasonable Price

When it comes to buying BBQ gloves, the price range can vary depending on the material, design, and brand. You can find BBQ gloves starting from as low as $10 and going up to $100 or more. However, the price doesn’t always determine the quality of the product.

Factors Affecting the Price of BBQ Gloves

The following factors can affect the price of BBQ gloves:

• Material: BBQ gloves made of high-quality materials such as leather, Kevlar, or silicone tend to be more expensive than those made of lower quality materials.
• Design: Gloves with a better design that allows for better handling and comfort will be priced higher.
• Thickness: Gloves with a higher thickness level will provide better heat protection and will be priced higher.
• Size: Gloves that are designed to fit larger hands will be priced higher.
• Brand: Popular brands that produce high-quality BBQ gloves will be priced higher.

Why Price is Important When Choosing BBQ Gloves

While it’s important to find BBQ gloves that perform well and provide excellent heat protection, it’s also important to find gloves that are reasonably priced. Here’s why:

• BBQ gloves are versatile and can be used for a range of cooking tasks, so you may want to buy more than one pair.
• BBQ gloves can get dirty quickly, so having a few pairs available for easy cleaning is ideal.
• BBQ gloves can be placed in extreme heat, so they may need to be replaced more often than other kitchen utensils.
• BBQ gloves are not just for professional chefs, but also for home cooks who want to remove meat from the grill evenly and safely.

Where to Find Good BBQ Gloves at a Reasonable Price

If you’re looking for good BBQ gloves at a reasonable price, here are some tips:

• Look for gloves made of high-quality materials such as Kevlar or silicone that offer good heat protection.
• Consider gloves that are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
• Look for gloves that are easy to clean and maintain.
• Check out online reviews to find the best products available.
• Look for gloves that are available in a range of sizes to ensure a good fit.
• Consider gloves that have a sleeve to protect your arms from heat.
• Look for gloves that allow for easy handling of utensils and other BBQ tools.

Heat Resistant Gloves: Handle Your BBQ with Ease

When it comes to grilling and handling food over extreme heat, a BBQ glove is a must-have. There are different types of heat resistant gloves available in the market, each with its own unique features. Here are some of the most common types:

• Aramid fiber gloves (check out these best BBQ gloves): Made from high-tech Aramid fiber, these gloves can resist heat up to 932°F. They are perfect for grills and ovens and offer extra-long protection for your forearms.

• Suede gloves: These gloves are made from suede fabric and can resist heat up to 450°F. They are perfect for handling greasy food and are easy to clean.

• Silicone gloves: These gloves are made from silicone and can resist heat up to 500°F. They offer a good grip and are perfect for handling food on the grill.

• Welding gloves: These gloves are made from leather and can resist heat up to 600°F. They are perfect for handling hot charcoal and protecting your hands from flames.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your heat resistant gloves are essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips:

• Always wash your gloves after use to remove any stains or soot.

• Use mild soap and warm water to clean your gloves.

• Avoid exposing your gloves to high heat or flames.

• Reinforced and oversized gloves are more protective.

• Check the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and cleaning your gloves.

Choosing the Right BBQ Gloves for Your Grilling Needs

When looking for the best BBQ gloves to add to your grilling utensils, there are a few things you need to consider:

• Material: BBQ gloves come in different materials such as leather, silicone, and even fabric. Leather gloves are excellent for handling hot coals, logs, and grates, while silicone gloves are great for turning and flipping food on the grill. Fabric gloves are appropriate for simple grilling situations, but they may not provide superior protection.
• Heat Resistance: The right BBQ gloves should be able to handle high temperatures without burning or melting. Look for gloves that can withstand temperatures of up to 500°F or more.
• Comfort and Fit: The gloves should fit your hands perfectly to ensure a good grip. They should also be comfortable to wear for extended periods.
• Strengths: Different gloves have different strengths. Some are better for grasping handles and pans, while others are better for shifting grates or moving logs. Choose gloves that fit your grilling style and needs.
• Waterproofing: If you plan on grilling in the rain or near water, you may want to consider gloves that are waterproof.

Types of BBQ Gloves

There are different types of BBQ gloves available in the market. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Leather Gloves: These gloves are traditional and provide excellent protection against heat. They are perfect for handling hot coals, logs, and grates. Some of the best-known leather gloves in the market are the Oklahoma Joe’s, the Weber Premium, and the Char-Broil Leather Grill Gloves.
• Silicone Gloves: These gloves are perfect for turning and flipping food on the grill. They are also waterproof and easy to clean. Some of the best-known silicone gloves in the market are the Grill Armor Gloves, the Ekogrips BBQ Oven Gloves, and the RAPICCA BBQ Gloves.
• Fabric Gloves: These gloves are affordable and come in different styles and sizes. They are appropriate for simple grilling situations, but they may not provide superior protection. Some of the best-known fabric gloves in the market are the Artisan Griller BBQ Heat Resistant Insulated Gloves and the GEEKHOM Grilling Gloves.

Models to Check Out

If you’re looking for the best BBQ gloves in the market, here are some models to check out:

• Oklahoma Joe’s Leather BBQ Gloves: These gloves are made of high-quality leather and fit most hand sizes. They are perfect for handling hot coals, logs, and grates.
• Weber Premium BBQ Gloves: These gloves are made of silicone and are perfect for turning and flipping food on the grill. They are also waterproof and easy to clean.
• Char-Broil Leather Grill Gloves: These gloves are made of cast leather and are perfect for handling hot coals, logs, and grates. They are also comfortable to wear and provide excellent protection.
• Ekogrips BBQ Oven Gloves: These gloves are made of silicone and are perfect for turning and flipping food on the grill. They are also waterproof and easy to clean.
• RAPICCA BBQ Gloves: These gloves are made of leather and are perfect for handling hot coals, logs, and grates. They are also waterproof and easy to clean.

Why Choosing Gloves Specifically Designed for BBQ is a Must

When it comes to grilling, you want to make sure that your hands are protected from the heat and any contact with the grill, grates, coals, or hot pots and pans. Regular gloves may not be able to withstand the heat and may not be thick enough to protect your hands from direct contact. BBQ gloves, on the other hand, are designed to handle certain types of cooking and are usually made of heat-resistant fabric, leather, or Nomex. They are great for handling heavy and large items directly from the grill or oven.

Experts Recommend Using BBQ Gloves

Many grilling experts recommend using BBQ gloves over regular oven mitts or gloves. Here’s why:

• BBQ gloves offer more protection: They are designed to withstand high temperatures and protect your hands from direct contact with hot surfaces.
• BBQ gloves allow for better grip: They are usually thicker and offer a better grip than regular gloves, which can be slippery.
• BBQ gloves are more versatile: They are designed to handle a variety of tasks, from turning meat on the grill to moving hot coals.

It’s Worth Having a Pair of BBQ Gloves

If you’re serious about grilling, it’s worth investing in a pair of BBQ gloves. They may cost more than regular gloves, but they offer a lot of benefits and can last a long time if taken care of properly. Plus, they add a level of safety and confidence to your grilling game. Let’s face it, no one wants to get burned while grilling!

Are Waterproof BBQ Gloves Worth the Investment?

When working with a BBQ or oven, there’s always a risk of encountering wet or oily surfaces. Waterproof gloves can protect your hands from getting wet or oily, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. Wet gloves can conduct heat and burn your skin, while oily gloves can transfer oils and fats onto your food.

Types of Waterproof Materials

There are different types of waterproof materials used in BBQ gloves, including:

• Molded rubber: Provides excellent resistance to water and heat, but can be less flexible than other materials.
• Woven or knitted fabric: Can be treated with waterproof coatings to repel water and oils, but may not provide as much protection as rubber.
• Absorbent fabric: Can absorb moisture and oils, but may not be completely waterproof.

Considerations When Choosing Waterproof Gloves

When choosing waterproof BBQ gloves, here are some things to consider:

• Check the product description to ensure that the gloves are indeed waterproof.
• Look for gloves that are heat-resistant as well, to protect your hands from burns.
• Consider the level of flexibility you need in your gloves, as some materials may be less flexible than others.
• Look for gloves with a good grip, especially if you’ll be handling hot pots or grilling tools.
• Check the inside of the gloves to ensure that they are not absorbent, as this can make them uncomfortable to wear and less effective at repelling moisture and oils.

Getting the Perfect Fit: Why It Matters

When it comes to grilling, having the right gear is essential. And one of the most important pieces of equipment you need is a good pair of BBQ gloves. But it’s not just any gloves that will do the trick. You need gloves that are designed to protect your hands from the heat of the grill, while still allowing you to handle your food with ease. And that means finding gloves that fit just right.

How Should Your BBQ Gloves Fit?

So, how do you know if your BBQ gloves fit properly? Here are a few things to consider:

• The gloves should fit snugly around your hands, without being too tight. You want to be able to move your fingers and grip your grilling tools with ease.
• The gloves should be long enough to cover your wrists, so you don’t accidentally burn yourself when reaching for hot handles or wood chips.
• The gloves should be made from a material that is both heat-resistant and flexible. Leather and certain types of synthetic materials are good options.
• The gloves should feel comfortable and natural on your hands. You don’t want to be constantly adjusting them or feeling like they’re getting in the way.
• If you plan on grilling in wet conditions, consider gloves that are waterproof or at least water-resistant.
• If you have larger or smaller hands than average, look for gloves that come in a variety of sizes to ensure a good fit.

The Benefits of a Good Fit

Why is it so important to find gloves that fit just right? Here are a few reasons:

• A good fit will allow you to work more efficiently and with greater dexterity, which can help improve your grilling performance.
• Gloves that fit well are less likely to slip or move around, which means you’ll be less likely to accidentally burn yourself.
• Gloves that fit properly will also be more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
• A good fit can help you feel more confident when grilling, knowing that you have the right gear to handle the heat.

Choosing the Right Type of BBQ Gloves

When it comes to BBQ gloves, there are a few different types to choose from. Here are some of the most common:

• Leather gloves: These are a popular choice for many people, as they offer good heat resistance and durability. They can be difficult to remove when they get greasy, though.
• Synthetic gloves: These gloves are typically cheaper than leather gloves and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They may not offer the same level of heat resistance as leather gloves, though.
• Metal mesh gloves: These gloves are designed for handling meat directly and offer excellent heat resistance. They can be a bit bulky, though, and are not ideal for handling smaller items.
• Regular oven mitts: While not specifically designed for grilling, regular oven mitts can work in a pinch. Just be sure to check the heat resistance level before assuming they’ll work for grilling.

Cleaning Your BBQ Gloves: A Basic Guide

Cleaning your BBQ gloves is a relatively simple process that can be performed using basic materials you likely already have on hand. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare a basin of warm, soapy water. Use a mild detergent to avoid damaging the gloves.
2. Dip a scrubber brush into the solution and apply it to the gloves, scrubbing gently to loosen any stubborn particles or grease.
3. For leather gloves, use a damp cloth to wipe away excess water and prevent damage to the material.
4. For silicone or fabric gloves, rinse them thoroughly under warm water to remove any remaining soap.
5. To neutralize any odors, you can soak the gloves in a solution of water and baking soda or vinegar for a few minutes before rinsing.
6. Hang the gloves to air dry completely before storing them.

Tips for Maintaining the Quality of Your BBQ Gloves

To ensure your BBQ gloves remain in good condition and provide the necessary protection, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Store your gloves in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of bacteria growth.
• Avoid using your gloves with hot liquids or steams, as this can damage the gloves and reduce their effectiveness.
• Depending on the type and quality of your gloves, you may need to perform specific cleaning steps to maintain their properties. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.
• Brush off any excess particles or grime from the gloves before cleaning to reduce the amount of buildup that can accumulate over time.
• If your gloves become particularly dirty or greasy, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution or a specialized cleaning product to remove the stubborn particles.

By following these basic steps and tips, you can ensure your BBQ gloves remain in good condition and provide the necessary protection for your hands while grilling or baking.

BBQ Glove FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

BBQ gloves can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and silicone. Leather gloves are a popular choice among pitmasters and chefs because they offer a solid grip and are comfortable to wear. Synthetic gloves are typically more affordable and easier to clean, while silicone gloves offer great heat resistance and are waterproof.

What is the biggest reason to use BBQ gloves?

The main reason to use BBQ gloves is to protect your hands from the heat when handling hot coals, grilling utensils, and food. They also offer a convenient way to handle meat without getting your hands dirty or burned.

What type of BBQ glove is best for handling hot coals?

When it comes to handling hot coals, leather gloves are generally considered the best choice. They offer a solid grip and are heat-resistant, making it easier to move coals around without getting burned.

What are the different styles of BBQ gloves?

BBQ gloves come in a variety of styles, including short gloves, long gloves, and mitts. Short gloves offer more dexterity and are ideal for handling smaller items, while long gloves and mitts offer more protection and are better for handling larger items.

Can BBQ gloves be used for other tasks, like welding?

While BBQ gloves are designed specifically for grilling and handling hot coals, they can also be used for other tasks that require heat resistance, such as welding.

What is the best type of BBQ glove for pitmasters?

Pitmasters typically prefer leather gloves for their solid grip and heat resistance. However, synthetic gloves and silicone gloves also offer great heat resistance and may be a good choice for pitmasters who want a more affordable or waterproof option.

Do BBQ gloves offer better protection compared to regular oven mitts?

BBQ gloves typically offer better protection compared to regular oven mitts because they are designed specifically for grilling and handling hot coals. They offer more heat resistance and a better grip, making it easier to handle hot items directly from the grill.

Conclusion

So, a BBQ glove is a glove designed to handle heat from the grill. You should look for heat resistance, comfort, and protection when buying a pair. 

Don’t forget to wear them when grilling so you don’t burn your hands and enjoy your meal!

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Lakeside Smokers is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with BBQ Smoking (& Japanese food!) at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.