My father retired from the aviation airframe and powerplant industry in April, 2004 after 35 years as a certified welder. His "nod" style helmet retired with him. He has used the same one all those years. After countless lense and chassis replacements he still uses it. I think the key is to test fit the helmets that are available and select one that best fits your head.
I appreciate your comment about welding in close quarters. I recently replaced the floor pans, rockers and kick panels on my '66 K-10. Climbing under the truck repeatedly created problems with the "nod" style helmet. I decided to use my google style shield with a #10 lense. Needless to say, I looked like I just got back from a weeks worth of skiing, racoon eyes and all. It was very convenient but tough on the face and neck, especially on my nose.
