Because chainsaws can be dangerous (all it takes is one mistake and you could end up critically injured—in all the wrong places), investing in a pair of chainsaw chaps is a good idea for anyone who plans on cutting up brush or sawing down trees. Whether you’re a homeowner or someone in the landscaping business, you owe it to yourself to stay safe. Getting a good pair of chainsaw chaps doesn’t have to be expensive, and will keep you protected whenever you’re out cutting stuff up.
If you’re planning on firing up your saw sometime soon, here are the 4 best chainsaw chaps to shield your legs and ensure your safety:
WoodlandPRO Chainsaw Safety Chaps
Depending on how much yard-work you do, you might not need a very expensive pair of chainsaw chaps. If you’re a homeowner who maybe cuts up brush once or twice a year, or just keeps a chainsaw handy in case there’s a big storm that knocks some branches into your yard, there’s no sense in buying a really expensive pair of chaps. You simply need something that’s functional while still keeping you safe.
WoodlandPRO Chainsaw Safety Chaps are affordable and protective, making them a great choice for folks who want to stay safe without having to spend a whole lot of money. These chaps are one of the few inexpensive pairs on the market that offer complete protection from a running saw.
Unlike many similarly priced products, which only protect the wearer from flying debris, these are double layered with DuPont Kevlar (the same material used in bulletproof vests). If you’re cutting up logs and happen to slip, the reinforced design will save you. Additionally, you’ll be protected from any shards of wood or pieces of debris that might get kicked up and fly at you.
For the homeowner on a budget, these are among the best chainsaw chaps you can buy.
Forester Chainsaw Apron Chaps with Pocket, Orange 36″ Length
These chaps make for excellent protection for the front part of your leg, but they’re not suitable for truly high-torque electric chainsaws which might make it through them. The pocket is also a handy feature, preventing you from having to dig under your chaps in order to access whatever you might need. The coverage is quite good as well, wrapping around to cover the front and sides of your legs. Once you add in the budget price, you have a perfect set of chaps for using a gas powered chainsaw, although professionals may want to look elsewhere due to the nature of their saws.
A.M. Leonard Chain Saw Chaps
These chaps from A.M. Leonard provide a surprising amount of protection for a cheap package. Indeed, it looks like the corners were mainly cut when it comes to the buckle system around the waist which is made of plastic, as opposed to any shortcuts being taken with the protective qualities. They provide asymmetric protection, being a bit larger on the left side of each leg which is where most chainsaw injuries tend to occur, which is good for most of us but might make things a bit daunting for someone who’s left handed. Overall, they’re a good piece of protective equipment and adjustable to fit most people.
Labonville Full-Wrap Chainsaw Safety Chaps
Since the mid 1960’s, Labonville has been making quality chainsaw gear that pushed the limits in terms of both quality and innovation. The company is well known for their protective chaps that have been specially designed to greatly reduce the chances of injury.
Labonville Full-Wrap Chainsaw Safety Chaps (see full specs) have extra reinforcing in the front leg and calf areas of every pair. This is because most chainsaw injuries occur in those two spots (and not, gentlemen, where you are most afraid of the chainsaw hitting you). This additional padding helps to increase your safety without adding making the chaps too heavy or bulky. This way you can cut outside on a hot summer day without getting overheated or uncomfortable from your protective gear.
On top of this, the chaps are Kevlar reinforced, allowing them to stop even the most powerful chainsaws on the market. Whether you’re using a small saw for trimming small brush or a big one for cutting up whole trees, you’re in good hands. Labonville will keep you safe and sound as you accomplish all your outdoor tasks. These are easily among the best chainsaw chaps.
Closing Thoughts
Using a chainsaw is a serious matter. You’re operating a tool capable of cutting down full-grown trees and holding it inches from your body. Simply put, you need to stay safe. And the best way to do this is with a great pair of chaps that can stop a saw blade in case there’s an accident.
When you’re going out to cut up trees or clear away brush, make sure that you’re properly protected. Even an inexpensive pair of chaps, like the WoodlandPros (see full specs) can prevent serious injury.
Be smart and take care of yourself and get the best chainsaw chaps you can afford. There’s no sense in risking your life just to save a couple bucks. After all, which is cheaper in the long run, a pair of chainsaw chaps or a trip to the hospital—or the morgue?
P.S. If you have any of your own suggestions or recommendations, feel free to leave a comment. This way other readers can find the safety gear that best suits your needs.
