A guide wire includes a first wire disposed on the distal side of the
guide wire and a second wire disposed on the proximal side. The second
wire has an elastic modulus larger than of the first wire. The first wire
is joined to the second wire at a welded portion by welding. A coil is
disposed on the distal side of the first wire. A cover layer is formed on
the outer peripheral surface of the wire member in such a manner as to
cover at least the welded portion. The cover layer is made from a
material capable of reducing the friction of the cover layer, for
example, a fluorocarbon resin or a hydrophilic material, to thereby
improve the sliding performance of the guide wire. Such a guide wire is
excellent in operationality and kink resistance.