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Looking for good a set of chainsaw chaps?
How about a strong pair of chainsaw pants?
If you want to protect your legs, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to find the best chainsaw chaps and best chainsaw pants for all-day safety.
The truth is, there are hundreds of chainsaw chaps and pants out there to choose from, but once you’re done reading this page, you’ll know how to cut through the clutter to find the best gear for your needs.
Guaranteed.
This guide has it all too.
First, we’ll go over how chaps and pants work to protect you, then we’ll move on to a list of the best chainsaw trousers you can buy today.
Along the way, you’ll also find answers to common questions you may have about chainsaw chaps and pants so you can make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.
So, let’s get started.
I can’t wait to help you find the best chainsaw trousers for your needs!
Best Chainsaw Chaps & Pants Reviewed in This Guide
Here’s a quick comparison chart showing the top chainsaw chaps and pants. I’ll go in depth about each one later in the reviews section, but this gives you a sense of what’s available and a simple way to quickly compare them.
| Image | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
  | Husqvarna 587160704 Chainsaw Chaps
| Check Price |
  | Husqvarna 587160702 Chainsaw Chaps
| Check Price |
  | Forester Chainsaw Chaps
| Check Price |
  | Labonville Chainsaw Chaps
| Check Price |
  | Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
| Check Price |
  | Pfanner Gladiator Extreme Chainsaw Pants
| Check Price |
  | Pfanner Hi-Vis Orange Chainsaw Pants
| Check Price |
  | Notch Armorflex Chainsaw Pants
| Check Price |
  | Portwest Chainsaw Pants
| Check Price |
  | SIP Protection Progress Chainsaw Pants
| Check Price |
How Do Chainsaw Chaps Work?
Chainsaw chaps are made from protective fabric that protects you in a number of different ways.
The outermost layer is in place to protect against trivial damage that could have an impact on the filler material, and it can be both slippery and tough.
Beneath the protective material is laid-in layers that are made from long, loose fibers such as Kevlar or ballistic nylon.
If your chainsaw makes contact with the protective outer layer of the chaps, it will cut through the material.
However, the special inner layers will be drawn out and wrap around the chainsaw’s drive sprocket.
That yanking force will lock up the tool and halt the chain, therefore, reducing the damage that might occur to your legs.
Chainsaw Apron vs Wrap-Around Chaps
There are two types of chainsaw chaps:
- Aprons
- Wrap-around chaps
When it comes to chainsaw aprons, these cover the front part of your legs, including your thighs and shins, but they don’t protect the back, including your calves.
Wrap-around chaps cover your entire leg, including your thighs, shins, and calves because they wrap around the lower half of your legs.
The biggest difference between these two chainsaw chap types is that an apron only covers the front half of your lower body, while the wrap-around chaps give you much fuller protection.
Full wrap-around chaps are generally bulkier and heavier because of the extra material in them.
By contrast, aprons are obviously lighter.
If you often find yourself working in a dynamic, high-risk setting where there are a lot of distractions, you might consider investing in full wrap-around chaps to ensure that you are protected.
If you only use your chainsaw for casual household jobs, an apron might be the best type of chaps for you.
Plus, they’re less expensive than full wrap-around chaps.
How Do Chainsaw Pants Work?
Basically, the best chainsaw pants aren’t much different from chainsaw chaps with the exception of the fact that they’re pants and meant to be worn as such.
Chainsaw pants cover every part of your leg, from your waist down to your ankles, and are beneficial for all-day wear.
Thus, if you plan on using your chainsaw for an entire day to take care of tasks around your home or you work in a high-risk environment, then chainsaw pants might be the best option.
Deciding between chainsaw chaps and chainsaw pants depends on how often you use your chainsaw.
If you only have a few quick jobs that need to be taken care of or you are on the go, then chaps could be a better option for you because they’re quick and easy to put on and take off.
If you have a lot of work to do with your chainsaw and you need constant protection, then pants are the best choice for the job.
Types of Safety Materials in Chainsaw Chaps & Pants
When it comes to the best chainsaw chaps and pants, they’ll be made from durable, high-quality materials that include a core with multiple layers for added protection.
Chainsaw chaps and pants can be made from a variety of different materials, including:
- Kevlar – This strong, heat-resistant fiber was developed in 1965 and originally used as a steel alternative in racing tires. It’s used in clothing like chainsaw chaps and pants because it’s lighter and thinner than more traditional protective materials.
- Nylon – This is a synthetic polymer that’s stretchy and malleable. Because of these features, it can easily wrap around the drive sprocket to stop the chainsaw from running to keep you safe.
- PVC – This is a coating of synthetic plastic that’s most often used to deflect oil and water. It can make the outside of your chainsaw pants and chaps slick.
- Polyester – This is a chemical-derived material that’s made from petroleum, air, and water. Since it’s developed in a lab, it’s possible to make the fibers that are used in your chainsaw chaps or pants as long or short as needed. That means polyester can be used to wrap around the drive sprocket to stop the chainsaw from running.
- Tek Warp – This protective material is cut-retardant and can’t be sliced by a blade. It’s also designed to pull apart, which clogs the chainsaw sprocket system. Tek Warp is commonly found in Husqvarna chainsaw chaps and pants.
When it comes to chainsaw pants and chaps, the more layers the fabric has, the more safety and protection you get.
More layers mean that the chaps or pants have a higher chance of jamming the chainsaw mechanism.
When shopping for chainsaw chaps and pants, you may come across the term “Denier.”
This is a unit of measurement that defines how thick the individual fiber threads are when the textiles and fabrics are formed.
Depending on the brand of chainsaw chaps and pants, they can have anywhere between 400 and 1,000 Denier.
Now, the word “Denier” won’t confuse you.
Chainsaw Chaps & Pants Reviews & Buying Guide
Now that you know how chainsaw chaps and pants work to protect you, we can move on to the list of the best chaps and pants you can buy today.
What I tried to do in these chainsaw chap and pants reviews is to recommend high-quality options for every person’s needs.
What you’ll find below is a detailed list of the top protective clothing for every budget, style, and taste.
Some of these items are also featured on my chainsaw safety equipment page which also includes gloves, glasses, helmets, boots, and hearing protection.
Best Chainsaw Chaps & Pants List
1. Husqvarna 587160704 Chainsaw Chaps
Husqvarna offers tough gear for tough jobs.
And these chainsaw chaps will make sure you operate safely, like a pro.
This orange and gray safety chap is adjustable for waist sizes up to 42 inches, so you’ll have to problem getting the perfect fit.
If you’re curious about the science behind this chainsaw protective gear, here’s how it works:
The chaps contain PVC coated denier polyester with Tek warp protective layers that are designed to pull apart when the chainsaw chain comes into contact with them.
This special technology clogs up the sprocket system of the chainsaw to slow or stop the chain from spinning depending on the speed and angle of contact.
These chainsaw chaps are and quick and easy to put on and take off and go right over your existing pants.
In my opinion, these chaps are the best and are very affordable.
But most importantly, they’ll protect your legs while you’re cutting and hopefully save you a trip to the emergency room.
2. Husqvarna 587160702 Chainsaw Chaps
Here’s another version of my number #1 pick.
The only difference is that these chainsaw chaps come in black and gray color.
You still get the same high level of Husqvarna protection with cut retardant material.
So, depending on the style you like best, you can choose either the previous orange and gray color or this black and gray option here.
Either way, you’re getting a superior level of safety protection against accidental chainsaw cuts.
3. Forester Chainsaw Chaps
How would you like a chainsaw apron that’s UL listed and meets all of the OSHA requirements for safe operation?
What about a pair of universal chainsaw chaps that fit every waist size between 28″ to 44″?
And on top of that, how about getting a choice between 7 different colors and designs to meet your individual tastes?
If that’s exactly like what you’re looking for in this kind of safety gear, then this Forester chainsaw chap is what you need.
You get top-of-the-line protection as well as a choice between green, orange, brown, denim, safety yellow, standard camo, and tree camouflage designs.
Just note that these chainsaw chaps are not suitable protection for use with electric chainsaws, due to the high-torque nature of electric motors.
But for gas chainsaws, this safety gear is as good as it gets.
4. Labonville Premium Chainsaw Chaps
Labonville is another top brand for chainsaw chaps.
And this safety chap is fully UL tested and classified to meet the strict safety operations for chainsaw use.
What I like most about them is the 5-ply blend of Kevlar and Polyester which makes this chainsaw chap much lighter than other products but still just as tough.
Another benefit of these chaps is that the sewing in padding can jam the chainsaw’s drive sprocket if the chain gets too close to your legs.
That feature can instantly stop the chain from spinning to protect you from serious cuts and injuries.
Additionally, these chainsaw chaps have an adjustable waist size up to 48″, so they’ll fit any size chainsaw user.
The only downside of this protective gear is that it’s more expensive than my first 3 reviews. However, they offer excellent protection for serious arborists, which is why these chaps come with a higher price.
5. Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
My final recommendation for chainsaw chap protective gear is this Oregon product right here.
You may already be familiar with the Oregon brand because they make some of the best chainsaw blades and chains.
But Oregon also offers protection you can trust.
These chainsaw chaps, in particular, have 8 layers of breathable, protective material with a durable 600 denier oxford shell.
That combination of materials is specifically designed to bind with the chainsaw chain upon contact and stall the chainsaw motor to keep you safe.
This chainsaw chaps has an adjustable waist up to 46″ and adjustable length up to 36″ to meet every height and weight of chainsaw users.
It’s also the most affordable gear you can choose to protect your legs.
6. Pfanner Gladiator Extreme Chainsaw Pants
If you’re looking for professional-grade protection in the form of chainsaw pants, then these are your top choice.
Pfanner combined a special blend of four materials to keep you safe during the toughest chainsaw work:
- Dyneema fiber is 15x stronger than steel at the same weight, making these chainsaw pants ultra-strong and ultra-lightweight.
- Gladiator material that’s extremely tear-resistant, protects against snags, and repels water, dirt, and oil.
- StrechAIR material is a 5-way stretch material that makes the pants feel soft and comfortable while also being breathable to keep you cool while you work.
Overall, these are the best chainsaw pants for all outdoor work environments.
No matter if you’re working in dense woods, where brush and thorns could destroy traditional work clothing, or you’re just working around the yard, the Pfanner Gladiator’s give you the comfort and protection you need when operating a chainsaw.
And finally, waist sizes range from 33″ to 41″ to accommodate the widest range of chainsaw users.
7. Pfanner Hi-Vis Orange Chainsaw Pants
If you’re doing any type of professional chainsaw work, then you’ll likely need a pair of chainsaw pants that are in accordance with EN 20471 for hi-visibility workwear.
If that’s the case, then these Pfanner Hi-Vis orange chainsaw pants are the perfect fit.
Chainsaw Protection Class 1
They meet chainsaw protection Class 1 safety standards by having fluorescent and reflective safety materials.
Everything else about them is the same as my #1 review.
You get the same blend of high-quality gear for maximum all-day comfort, safety, and protection when using a chainsaw.
8. Notch Armorflex Chainsaw Pants
Notch is another top brand for chainsaw protective equipment.
And these pants are made for serious homeowners and professional arborists.
The 5-layer Avertic Engtex protective fabric provides excellent chainsaw stopping power to keep you safe on the job.
These chainsaw pants come with Class 3 protection which gives you peace of mind against the fastest tested chainsaw speeds.
The high stretch fabric, elastic waistband, and large cooling vents also make these chainsaw pants extremely comfortable for climbing trees and working on the ground.
The available waist sizes are a bit more limited than other brands, you can choose between 32″ to 38″, but each pair is covered by Notch’s lifetime guarantee.
9. Portwest Chainsaw Pants
Are you looking for the most affordable pair of chainsaw pants?
Ones that can keep you warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and don’t let snow or sawdust stick to the material?
Then this pair of chainsaw gear will fit well inside your budget.
These pants offer 9 layers of protection that are comfortable and breathable while meeting Class 1 safety standards.
They’re made with a quality blend of polyester and cotton fabric with a water repellent finish.
Portwest also includes many practical features in these chainsaw pants, including inset pockets, a back zip pocket, belt loops on the waistband and an elasticated waistband.
For a low-cost pair of chainsaw pants, you can’t do any better than this product.
10. SIP Protection Progress Chainsaw Pants
SIP Protection is another popular brand among tree professionals.
And these chainsaw pants are equally as good for casual chainsaw operators and homeowners.
The SIP Progress chainsaw pants provide superior Class 1 chainsaw protection using high-tech Dyneema fibers.
Elastic Texxion upper material gives you excellent flexibility while out working.
Reinforced Armortex knee guards keep these pants from tearing on sharp bark or thorny bushes.
Ventilation zippers at the back of legs help keep you cool.
And, the integrated gators with lace hooks to keep sawdust out of your boots.
If you’re looking for a pair of chainsaw pants that are lightweight, very maneuverable and well ventilated for those hot summer days, these SIP Protection Progress chainsaw pants are a good pick.
Available waist sizes include 30″ to 44″ which covers just about everyone out there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chainsaw Chaps & Pants
What are chainsaw chaps?
Chainsaw chaps are worn to protect the wearer from serious harm while using a chainsaw. It’s advised that these always be worn when operating a chainsaw, and they should be used with other safety equipment, including ear protection and eye goggles.
Apron-style chaps were developed as a way to keep the wearer cooler and offer more protection than jeans or other work trousers. They only cover the front part of a person’s legs, which is the area that is most likely to be cut when using a chainsaw.
Should I wear chainsaw chaps?
Being safe is never a bad idea, and wearing chainsaw chaps can reduce your chances of injury while using a chainsaw.
Chainsaw chaps are a good choice because they’re often inexpensive, they’re easy to put on and take off, and they’re great if you are doing quick jobs around the home.
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, but if you have chainsaw chaps, should you accidentally hit your legs with the chainsaw, you can walk away with minor injuries as opposed to losing a limb or requiring numerous stitches.
How do you wear chainsaw chaps?
Chainsaw chaps are worn over another pair of pants such as jeans or other work trousers.
If you get a chainsaw apron, this will just cover the front half of your legs.
For full wrap-around chaps, these will still go over your pants, but they’ll cover the front and back of your legs, including your calves.
How to choose the right size chaps?
When it comes to the length of your chaps, it is not the same as the length of your pants, they are sized according to overall length.
To figure out your overall length, you’ll need to measure from your waist (where your belt normally sits) to the top of your foot or instep.
When it comes to the waist size, most chainsaw chaps have an adjustable waistband to ensure that you get a snug fit.
So, you don’t have to worry as much about getting the right size as you do with pants.
Do chainsaw chaps work with electric chainsaws?
No, and this is why:
Chainsaw chaps and pants work when fibers are drawn out of laid-in layers and bind up the drive sprocket.
Essentially, the fibers jam the chain and bring it to a stop.
Chainsaw chaps and pants aren’t effective when it comes to electric saws because it’s difficult to stall the torque of an electric motor.
Even though chainsaw chaps and pants are not rated to be used with electric chainsaws, it’s still advised that you wear them when using this tool.
There have been some people who have used old chaps and tested their ability to protect you from electric chainsaws, and they found that the chain will stop after the bar nose sprocket gets bound up.
Chainsaw chaps and pants can stop gas-powered chainsaws faster because the drive sprocket gets bound instantly.
Although, since modern chainsaws have high chain speed and damage can be done incredibly quickly, any protection is better than none.
So, wearing chainsaw pants or chaps is a good idea whether you are using an electric or gas tool.
What are chainsaw chaps made of?
Chainsaw chaps are made from a variety of different materials, including Kevlar, PVC, polyester, nylon, and Tek Warp.
How to choose the right size chainsaw pants?
When it comes to finding the right size chainsaw pants, all you need to do is find the size that you normally wear in jeans or other work trousers.
You’ll then pick the waist size that matches your body.
When it comes to length, this is often a set standard and comes in 32 or 34 inches.
Do chainsaw pants work?
Yes, chainsaw pants do work.
When the chain of a chainsaw makes contact with chainsaw pants, it cuts through the outer layer and into the nylon or Kevlar layer, for example, and these fibers then wrap around the chainsaw’s drive sprocket to stop the chain.
Wearing chainsaw pants limits the damage that might occur to your leg when the chain comes into contact with it.
Do you wear trousers under chainsaw trousers?
No. Chainsaw pants are made to fit snuggly like a regular pair of jeans or other work pants.
So, you don’t need to wear trousers under chainsaw trousers.
What are the different classes of chainsaw trousers?
When it comes to chainsaw trousers (pants), they come in two classes:
- Type A – Has protective blocking material just on the front of the pant leg.
- Type C – Has protective blocking material around the entire pant leg.
What are the best chainsaw chaps?
The best chaps for chainsaw use are the products reviewed on this page, which include:
- 1. Husqvarna 587160704 Chainsaw Chaps
- 2. Husqvarna 587160702 Chainsaw Chaps
- 3. Forester Chainsaw Chaps
- 4. Labonville Premium Chainsaw Chaps
- 5. Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
What are the best chainsaw pants?
The best pants for chainsaw use are the products reviewed on this page, which include:
- 1. Pfanner Gladiator Extreme Chainsaw Pants
- 2. Pfanner Hi-Vis Orange Chainsaw Pants
- 3. Notch Armorflex Chainsaw Pants
- 4. Portwest Chainsaw Pants
- 5. SIP Protection Progress Chainsaw Pants
What should you wear when using a chainsaw?
When you’re using a chainsaw, you should wear chaps or pants, gloves, eye protection like a face shield or glasses, helmet, boots, and hearing protection.
All of those items are essential in keeping you safe and protected from chainsaw injuries.
Certifications to Look for
The best chainsaw chaps will meet the standards that have been established for chainsaw safety and leg protection.
The main organizations, regulations, and accordances that should be present when trying to determine if your chainsaw chaps or pants meet these standards include the following:
- UL Certified in Accordance with ASTM F1414-13
- Meets ASTM F1897-2008 Leg Protection for Chain Saw Users
- Meets OSHA Regulation 1910-266 for Logging Operations
- Meets ANSI Z133.1 2012 Standards for Tree Care Operations
- Meets USFS Requirements 11BF
More Chainsaw Safety Gear
When operating a chainsaw, you should protect every part of your body.
All it takes is a sudden chainsaw kickback, flying wood chips, thick brush, or a falling branch to cause an injury.
You can find a full list of the best chainsaw protective gear on my chainsaw safety equipment page to keep you safe.
It includes:
- Safety Glasses
- Hearing Protection
- Chaps
- Pants
- Gloves
- Boots
- Helmets
- Jackets, Vests & Sleeves
I also have several chainsaw buying guides that you may be interested in if you’re looking for a new tool.
Take a look at these when you get a chance:
- Top Rated Chainsaw Reviews
- Best Gas Chainsaw Reviews
- Best Battery Chainsaw Reviews
- Best Electric Chainsaw Reviews
Closing Thoughts on My Best Chainsaw Pants & Chaps Reviews
If you reached this part of my guide, then you should feel comfortable shopping for the best chainsaw chaps and pants for your needs.
Having a good pair of protective clothing is crucial for every chainsaw operator, regardless if you’re a professional arborist or just a casual chainsaw user.
Chainsaw accidents can happen when you least expect it and can easily rip apart your legs in a split second, so wearing the best chainsaw pants and chaps essential for staying safe.
Along with a good pair of pants, you should also have a tough pair of gloves. Check out my best chainsaw gloves list for good options.
Now, all you have to do is narrow down which of the best chainsaw clothing above is right for you and your budget.
Happy sawing!
Your Pal,
Chainsaw Larry