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Best BBQ Gloves in Australia

Published On:
January 22, 2024

Ever wondered what sets the best BBQ gloves apart in the sizzling Australian grilling scene? Our comprehensive guide dives into the world of BBQ gloves, highlighting their crucial role in enhancing safety and efficiency for every grill master.

From exploring top-notch materials and designs to comparing leading brands, we've got your hands covered. Join us as we unravel the secrets to finding the perfect BBQ gloves for your next outdoor feast.

BBQ gloves cover
Oklahoma Joe's Leather Smoking Gloves
Editor's choice
  • Heat Resistance: 8/10
  • Durability: 9/10
  • Comfort and Fit: 8/10
  • Easy to Clean: 8/10
  • Dexterity: 7/10

Total= 40/50

Outdoor Magic Heat Resistant Food Handling Glove
Best budget choice
  • Heat Resistance: 9/10
  • Durability: 8/10
  • Comfort and Fit: 7/10 
  • Easy to Clean: 9/10
  • Dexterity: 6/10 

Total= 39/50

Blaze Heat Gloves
Best silicone BBQ gloves
  • Heat Resistance: 9/10
  • Durability: 8/10
  • Comfort and Fit: 7/10 
  • Easy to Clean: 9/10
  • Dexterity: 6/10 

Total=39/50

Understanding the importance of heat resistance

When it comes to barbecuing, ensuring your safety is paramount. The most overlooked aspect of cooking over a hot flame is heat resistance, where BBQ gloves come into play. These grilling companions are designed to endure high temperatures, letting you comfortably turn food or move heated objects without risk.

Serious burns can occur almost instantly when the skin comes in contact with scorching surfaces or open flames, which is common in barbeque scenarios. As a result, choosing heat-resistant gloves ensures you’re always protected during BBQ preparation and grilling sessions.

It’s not only about personal safety; heat-resistant BBQ gloves also improve the overall grilling experience. Being constantly cautious around hot areas can distract and damage your culinary creativity. Having reliable protection helps to foster confidence, allowing for an unhindered and delightful barbecuing journey.

Technical specifications for BBQ gloves

Choosing the right BBQ gloves requires understanding certain technical specifications tied directly to their performance. Here are some fundamental characteristics to pay attention to:

  1. Heat Resistance: Determine up to what temperature level the glove can withstand without faltering.
  2. Material: Common materials include leather, aramid fabric (like Kevlar), silicone, or rubber composite.
  3. Size & Fit: The right fit provides additional dexterity during cooking tasks.
  4. Length: Extra-long cuffs offer further protection to your wrists and lower arms from unexpected flare-ups.
  5. Flame Retardant vs Heat Resistant: Some gloves are specifically flame retardant rather than merely heat resistant – ideal if you use open flames frequently.

As a piece of advice, remember to check user reviews before making any purchase; they often contain firsthand insights regarding how well these specs translate into real-world use.

Benefits of using BBQ gloves while grilling

Now let’s delve into the unique advantages that you can enjoy when using heat proof BBQ gloves:

  • Enhanced Safety: Grilling involves hefty doses of direct and indirect heat. Using BBQ gloves protects your hands from accidental burns and harmful heat radiations.
  • Improved Handling: Heat-resistant gloves impart better grip, improving the handling of hot items over a bare hand or conventional oven mitts.
  • Robust Protection: From sharp utensils to hot coals, the robust construction of these smoker gloves can endure heavy-duty use with ease, promising sustained protection.
  • Boosts Confidence: With enhanced safety comes greater confidence. The right grilling gloves allow freedom to cook with creativity without worrying about potential risks.

By providing you confident and competent control, these BBQ gloves bulletproof your safety and greatly elevate your overall grilling experience.

Using gloves while at BBQ

What are the best gloves for BBQ in Australia?

As someone who often finds himself flipping juicy steak or grilling cobs of corn – believe me when I tell you this: using BBQ gloves has always felt like grilling in a superhero’s armour. 

Let’s take an exquisite tour through some top-rated brands offering outstanding BBQ gloves, widely acclaimed by Australians nationwide.

Editor's choice
Oklahoma Joe's Leather Smoking Gloves

Oklahoma Joe's Leather Smoking Gloves

  • Heat Resistance: 8/10
  • Durability: 9/10
  • Comfort and Fit: 8/10
  • Easy to Clean: 8/10
  • Dexterity: 7/10

As someone who takes their grilling seriously, I recently got my hands on the Oklahoma Joe's Leather Smoking Gloves. Let me tell you, they're a game-changer. Crafted from 100% leather, these gloves strike the perfect balance between robust protection and lightweight comfort. They're not just gloves; they're like a second skin shielding you from the grill's intense heat.

I first noticed their stylish, rugged look, which complements any BBQ setup. They're not just functional; they're a statement piece. Slipping them on, the gloves felt snug yet flexible, allowing me to easily handle everything from tongs to hot grates. Their leather construction meant I could move hot coals around without flinching, a testament to their excellent heat resistance.

However, they're not without their quirks. The gloves initially felt tight, especially for someone with larger hands like me. But they adapted to my hand shape after a few uses, offering a more comfortable fit. While they're great for quick, hot tasks, holding onto something like a cast iron skillet for an extended period can be challenging. They're more suited for the quick manoeuvres of grilling rather than prolonged heat exposure.

Despite these minor setbacks, the gloves are incredibly durable. They've withstood multiple BBQ sessions and still look as good as new. Washing them is a breeze, too; a quick wipe-down is all it takes to keep them clean.

Pros
  • 100% Leather Construction: Offers excellent heat resistance and durability.
  • Flexible Use: Great for handling various grilling tasks, from moving grates to flipping meat.
  • Easy to Clean: Simple maintenance keeps them looking great.
Cons
  • Size Limitations: It can be tight for those with larger hands, requiring a break-in period.
  • Thread Durability Concerns: Some users reported issues with the stitching after exposure to high heat.
  • Initial Stiffness: This may require some use to fully break in and achieve maximum flexibility.
Best budget choice
Outdoor Magic Heat Resistant Food Handling Glove

Outdoor Magic Heat Resistant Food Handling Glove

  1. Heat Resistance: 9/10
  2. Durability: 8/10
  3. Comfort and Fit: 7/10 
  4. Easy to Clean: 9/10
  5. Dexterity: 6/10 

The Outdoor Magic Heat Resistant Food Handling Glove, also known as NEOGLOVE, is a budget-friendly yet high-performing addition to any BBQ enthusiast's arsenal. These gloves are a fusion of functionality and durability, designed to withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Celsius.

Upon first use, I noticed their robust construction. The textured palm is a standout feature, offering a superior grip that's essential when handling slippery items like pulled pork or brisket. This feature alone made managing my BBQ meats easier and safer. The jersey lining inside adds a layer of comfort, which is a pleasant surprise in a budget glove.

They're a bit stiff at first, but this rigidity translates to sturdy protection when handling hot coals or utensils. The gloves' length (35cm) is ample, providing good coverage up the arm, reassuring when reaching over a hot grill.

Washing them is a breeze; a simple rinse under water with soap, and they're ready for the next BBQ session. Their chemical and fire-resistant properties are a bonus, offering peace of mind for various cooking scenarios.

Pros
  • Exceptional Heat Resistance: Safely handles temperatures up to 500 degrees Celsius.
  • Superior Grip: Textured palm design ensures a firm hold on slippery foods.
  • Versatile Use: Ideal for handling both food and hot coals or charcoal.

 

Cons
  • Initial Stiffness: This may require some use to become more flexible.
  • Limited Heat Exposure Time: Heat resistance is effective for 7 to 10 seconds, requiring caution for longer exposures.
  • Bulkiness: This could be cumbersome for more delicate tasks.
Best silicone BBQ gloves
Blaze Heat Gloves

Blaze Heat Gloves

  1. Heat Resistance: 9/10
  2. Durability: 8/10
  3. Comfort and Fit: 7/10 
  4. Easy to Clean: 9/10
  5. Dexterity: 6/10 

The Blaze Heat Gloves are a revolutionary addition to any BBQ enthusiast's toolkit, offering high-tech protection and practical usability. These gloves, crafted from Aramid fibre and boasting an EN407 certification, are designed to withstand temperatures up to a staggering 500°C. This feature sets them apart, ensuring your hands stay safe from the intense grilling heat.

As I slipped on these gloves, I was impressed by their one-size-fits-all design, which comfortably accommodated my hands without feeling too loose or tight. The silicone grip is a game-changer, providing a secure hold on utensils and cookware, reducing the risk of slips and spills.

Moreover, these gloves are machine washable, a convenience that can't be overstated. After a heavy BBQ session, being able to toss them in the wash is a huge relief. They emerged from the laundry just like new, ready for another round of grilling.

Pros
  • Exceptional Heat Resistance: Withstands up to 500°C, ideal for intense BBQ sessions.
  • Durable Material: Aramid fibre construction ensures longevity and protection.
  • Enhanced Grip: Silicone grip provides a secure hold on cooking tools.
Cons
  • Flexibility: You may need more dexterity for more delicate tasks.
  • Insulation Thickness: It could be too thick for some, affecting the feel of objects.
  • One-Size Limitation: While accommodating, it may be challenging for exceptionally large or small hands.
Best BBQ mitts
MEATER BBQ Mitts

MEATER BBQ Mitts

  1. Heat Resistance: 8/10
  2. Durability: 8/10
  3. Comfort and Fit: 8/10
  4. Easy to Clean: 7/10
  5. Dexterity: 6/10

The MEATER BBQ Mitts are a testament to the blend of high-tech materials and practical design in grilling accessories. Made from 100% premium Aramid fibre, these mitts offer exceptional heat resistance, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 275°C (527°F). This feature makes them a reliable companion for handling everything from sizzling pans to the hottest culinary creations.

Upon slipping my hands into these mitts, I first noticed the internal lining – a cosy blend of polyester and cotton. This provided comfort and ensured the mitts didn't feel bulky or cumbersome, a common issue with many heat-resistant gloves. The ambidextrous design is thoughtful, making them versatile for left- and right-handed users.

The non-slip silicone texture on the exterior is another standout feature. It gave me confidence in utensils and cookware, enhancing safety and efficiency. The extended length of the mitts, covering the wrists and part of the forearm, offered additional protection, which is crucial when reaching a hot grill.

Pros
  • Comfortable Lining: Polyester and cotton blend lining ensures comfort during use.
  • Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left and right-handed users.
  • Extended Protection: Longer length offers additional wrist and forearm safety.
Cons
  • Heat Resistance Limit: While high, it may not be sufficient for extremely high-temperature tasks.
  • Flexibility: It could be less flexible compared to thinner gloves.
  • Maintenance: Requires careful cleaning to maintain the integrity of the materials.
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Are BBQ gloves worth it?

You might wonder whether investing in a pair of dedicated BBQ gloves is worthwhile. To put things into perspective, think about the various tasks involved in barbecuing. You handle hot grills and utensils, manipulate burning coal or wood, and sometimes even engage in actions like brisket spraying, which involves being dangerously close to the flaming grill. All these scenarios pose risks that can potentially cause serious burns.

Now, let’s focus on some logical considerations proving the worthiness of BBQ gloves:

  1. Safety: This tops the chart as the primary reason I cannot stress enough about owning a good pair of BBQ gloves. They are not just accessories but safety tools that protect your hands from extreme heat and potential fire hazards.
  2. Convenience: With BBQ gloves by your side (or should I say ‘on’ your hand), you feel comfortable working around high temperatures without any haste due to fear of burns. Expect better grip and control over hot items due to their non-slip design, frequently made using silicone coating.
  3. Versatility: These gloves are multi-purpose and versatile beyond barbecue use alone! They come in handy for other cooking tasks like baking or handling pots and pans around the kitchen stove that require dealing with heat.
  4. Durability: Quality BBQ gloves are highly durable due to being made often from materials like aramid fabric, famous for their resistance against heat, cut, and fire – all helping extend glove life significantly.

Combining these points, yes – very much so – those BBQ gloves tucked away neatly in your drawer are worth every penny spent!

From experience, there’s an undeniable sense of assurance when donning a sturdy pair of BBQ gloves. It genuinely contributes towards stepping up your backyard grilling game while ensuring you get through each seasoning or sizzling session unscathed!

In short, if you want to enjoy your barbecue sessions with the right blend of fun, safety and convenience – trust me, these gloves are an investment worth making. They ensure your hands’ protection while allowing complete focus on what truly matters – grilling up a mouth-watering feast for loved ones!

BBQ Gloves and Apron

Comparison of different types of BBQ gloves

As you delve further into the world of barbecue, it’s critical to understand that different types of gloves are designed specifically for grilling. Your particular needs and preferences are what will guide your choice, so let’s take a closer look at each type.

Barbeque gloves

Barbeque gloves offer comprehensive protection against heat when handling hot cooking utensils or grill gates. They can withstand moderately high temperatures, making them perfect for most barbecuing tasks. I appreciate these gloves’ ability to provide dexterity, enabling me to toss meat on the grill or remove skewers without fumbling.

Silicone BBQ gloves

Silicone BBQ gloves take heat resistance up a notch. Thanks to their material composition, these gloves withstand exceedingly high temperatures—up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit in some cases—without melting or compromising their structure. The silicone exterior also provides excellent grip even when dealing with wet objects.

Grill gloves

Grill gloves combine durability and comfort in one package. These gloves are usually made of leather or aramid fabric, which have great thermal properties. Grill gloves allow precise movements while offering robust protection against flames and sparks.

Barbecue mitts

Last, we have barbecue mitts, simple yet effective tools for handling hot objects during a cookout. Defined by their mitt-shaped design, they often fall short in finger movement flexibility compared to the other glove types but make up for it with exceptional heat resistance qualities.

Each kind enjoys its strengths and offers unique features. Therefore, choosing between barbeque gloves, silicone BBQ gloves, grill gloves, and barbecue mitts ultimately depends on your individual expectations and requirements around safety, comfortability and function during your grilling experience.

Features to consider when choosing BBQ gloves

Whether a backyard BBQ enthusiast or an expert pitmaster, having the right barbecue gloves is not always about great looks and brand name. Below, I have highlighted some critical features that need your consideration while choosing suitable gloves for your cooking needs.

Cut resistant properties

Meat handling often involves sharp objects like knives, hence the need for meat gloves with cut-resistant properties as a safety measure. It’s crucial to add that no glove can be 100% resistant to cuts; however, the higher the resistance level, the better your chance of avoiding injuries.

Fireproof materials

Since barbecue cooking involves grilling over a hot flame where temperatures can go beyond hundreds of degrees Celsius in seconds, getting heat-proof gloves for cooking shouldn’t be an option but a necessity for all grillers.

When choosing your BBQ mitts or grill gloves, it’s important to ensure they are certified fireproof. Some reliable sources even recommend looking for “flame-resistant” products instead of those labelled “heat-resistant.”

Materials like Aramid fibres, used in firefighter clothing, are highly recommended because they can withstand temperatures up to 1472°F (800 °C). Indeed, it would be wise to opt for gloves made from these fireproof materials when dealing with extreme temperature scenarios.

Double-sided non-slip design with silicone coating

When working around steaming pots and sizzling grills, maintaining a firm grip on your cooking utensils is not just a matter of convenience, it’s a safety concern. This is where barbeque mitts with double-sided non-slip design with silicone coating come in handy.

Among other benefits, this silicone coating enhances resistance to slipping even under wet conditions. It will give you additional confidence as you flip those juicy burgers or remove that hot tray from the oven.

Tips for caring and maintaining BBQ gloves for longevity

To ensure your BBQ gloves last as long as possible, taking proper care of them is crucial. A great pair of grilling gloves will protect you from burns and enhance your barbecue experience by making handling safer and more comfortable. Here are some tips on maintaining these handy tools, ensuring they serve you faithfully season after season.

Regular cleaning

Regular cleaning is the most fundamental maintenance tip. Remember that food particles can get stuck to your gloves during cooking or baking, potentially threatening bacterial growth if not cleaned timely. Some gloves are machine washable, though I’d recommend checking the product specifications before throwing them into the washer.

Cleaning does more than just maintain hygiene – it also helps extend glove lifespan by preventing accumulative damage from burned-on residue. Some residue could even be flammable and thus dangerous during subsequent uses.

Drying them properly

After washing your gloves, dry them properly. Never leave your gloves damp because moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mould; this is unhygienic and can degrade the material over time.

Air drying is ideal since direct sunlight or heat sources might harm certain materials used to construct these gloves.

Not using them beyond their scope

Remember that BBQ gloves offer protection against high temperatures – they’re not built to withstand prolonged exposure to open flames or excessively hot surfaces. Avoid exposing your gloves to extreme conditions outside their capacity, unnecessarily accelerating their wear and tear.

Storing in dry places

Lastly, once thoroughly cleaned and dried, store your BBQ gloves in a dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures—this aids in preserving their condition and ensures they’re always ready whenever you decide to fire up those grills again.

Following these simple yet effective steps for caring for and maintaining BBQ gloves secures your investment. It keeps you safe whenever you’re around a BBQ pit. Remember, a well-maintained glove makes for a happy griller!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the right BBQ gloves are indispensable for any grilling enthusiast in Australia. Offering a blend of safety, durability, and versatility, they transform your grilling experience, allowing you to confidently handle heat. 

Our guide has navigated various options, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make an informed choice. Remember, investing in quality BBQ gloves is not just a purchase; it’s a step towards mastering the art of barbecue.

FAQs

How do I choose BBQ gloves?

Selecting the right BBQ gloves involves considering factors like heat resistance, material durability, and comfort. Look for gloves that can withstand high temperatures, are made from robust materials like leather or Aramid fibre, and offer a snug yet comfortable fit for enhanced dexterity during grilling.

What gloves are good for picking up coals?

For handling hot coals, gloves with high heat resistance and robust construction are ideal. Silicone BBQ gloves or those made from fireproof materials like Aramid fibres, which can endure extreme temperatures and provide a secure grip, are perfect for this task.

Are leather BBQ gloves good?

Leather BBQ gloves are excellent for grilling, offering a great balance of heat resistance, durability, and flexibility. They provide effective protection against high temperatures and are ideal for a range of BBQ tasks, including handling utensils and adjusting grill grates.

What are the best gloves for smoking?

The best gloves for smoking are those that offer high heat resistance and flexibility. Options like the MEATER BBQ Mitts, made from premium Aramid fibre, provide excellent thermal protection and comfort, making them ideal for managing smokers and handling hot food.