is there anywway to soften this shirt? firm is one thing but these are like plywood …

I've worn Wrangler denim shirts all my life, but stopped for a couple decades and wore suits. Just ordered a denim for old time sakes. Believe mine were made in US. They were always stiff when new, but weren't, uh, nipple-chafers and softened up quickly after a few washes. I read the reviews after buying: "It may have some value as a bomb blanket or to provide shelter in the event of a direct nuclear strike" My goodness. I'm wondering if the color shirts might offer ballistic protection if left unwashed. As a long-time Wrangler buyer (off hiatus) I'll review my offshore denim shirt when I get it.

Is it good for welding

As with all shirts, depends on type welding and whether you use welding sleeves. They go a long way in protecting the shirt sleeve. Otherwise, if it is stick welding, your brace arm will have freckle burns on the sleeve. These are good shirts, I have worn them for decades. They were part of what I considered my basic work uniform along with the Wrangler jeans, and Red Wing Boots

6'3" 200 lbs anyone recomend size? I bought 2 different styl large wranglers and both way too small.

2X LT. I'm 6'4", 270#. These are great shirts. Stiff a first, wash 'em cold. After breaking them in, iron them and they are proud yet humble as ever. Tuck' em in to a pair of Wrangler Indigo 13MWZ Original Cowboy Cut, nice boots and you'll attract your cowgirl like a bee to honey.