If you just bought a new chainsaw, you should purchase chainsaw chaps for yourself as well.
This protective gear will keep your legs and front lower half safe from any unwanted injuries, making it a critical part of your arsenal.
Below, we’ll tell you all about what to consider when buying your chainsaw chaps, including the best chainsaw chaps available on the market today.
Quick Overview
Winner
Husqvarna 587160704 Technical Apron Wrap Chap
Waistline adjustable to 42 inches
Wrap-around protection
Durable polyester with PVC coating and Tek warp
Runner-Up
Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
Durable 600 denier Oxford shell
It offers some of the most significant adjustments
Eight layers of protective and breathable fabric
Our Top 8 Choices For Best Chainsaw Chaps
| Best Chainsaw Chaps | Length (up to) | Waist (up to) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Husqvarna 587160704 Technical Apron Wrap Chap | 40 inches | 42 inches | Check Price |
| 2. Oregon Chainsaw Chaps | 36 inches | 46 inches | Check Price |
| 3. Forrester Apron-Style Chainsaw Chaps | 40 inches | 42 inches | Check Price |
| 4. Labonville Full-Wrap Chainsaw Chaps | 32 inches | 48 inches | Check Price |
| 5. Husqvarna 531309565 Chain Saw Apron Chaps | 42 inches | 46 inches | Check Price |
| 6. Makita 841008-A Chainsaw Chap | 38 inches | X-Large | Check Price |
| 7. Forrester Chainsaw Safety Camo | 40 inches | 42 inches | Check Price |
| 8. SIP Protection Progress Chainsaw Pants | 32 inches | 44 inches | Check Price |
8 Best Chainsaw Chaps
#1 – Winner – Husqvarna 587160704 Technical Apron Wrap Chap
Quick Facts
Waistline adjustable to 42 inches
Wrap-around protection
Durable polyester with PVC coating and Tek warp
Performance
Husqvarna has developed a reputation for making top-of-the-line chainsaws and other power tools. It offers the same attention to detail, design, materials, and construction with its chainsaw chaps.
These apron-style chaps are made from 1000 denier polyester with PVC coating and additional protective layers of Tea warp.
This combination of materials aims to resist chainsaws’ impact long enough to reduce an injury’s severity. It also gives the wearer extra precious seconds of reaction time.
The material is layered to release threads and clog the chainsaw mechanism if it ever comes in contact with the chaps’ fabric.
Unlike other chainsaw chaps, these chainsaw pants also cover the lower back of your legs for added safety, thus offering you 300-degree protection.
Verified users sing only praises about these safety chaps. They have used this for years, even when cutting 75-foot trees, and these chainsaw chaps still look brand new!
Design
The fabric is a vibrant orange and gray design with reflective strips around the ankles to give you extra visibility. You can also get a black and gray color combination. It also includes pockets and buckles for size adjustments.
The smaller size has a length of 36 inches from waist to ankle, while the more extended size is 40 inches long.
Note these safety chaps are only washable in cold water to maintain the material’s integrity. Also, they are not for use with electric chainsaws.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
If you want only the best chainsaw chaps and do not mind spending a little extra for chainsaw safety chaps that will last you for years, the Husqvarna 587160704 Technical Apron Chap is for you.
Here’s what you’ll love
High visibility
Versatile adjustable waist up to 42 inches
Innovative cut-retardant fabric
Strong adjustable buckles
UL-certified
Meets OSHA 1970 regulations
It fits up to 41 inches in length
Here’s what you might not like
NONE!
#2 – Runner-Up – Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
Quick Facts
Durable 600 denier Oxford shell
It offers some of the most significant adjustments
Eight layers of protective and breathable fabric
Performance
With its impeccable reputation for manufacturing chain saw blades, chains, and other chainsaw gear, Oregon rounds its product line-up off with its own protective equipment.
Oregon offers the same quality assurance and safety across all its products.
These apron-style chainsaw chaps have eight layers of breathable, protective material. It also features a 600 denier Oxford shell.
This combination of materials is designed to bind the chainsaw chain if it ever comes in contact. It will stall your chainsaw, effectively forcing it to stop spinning and ensuring your protection while using a chainsaw.
Design
With a variety of sizes, the adjustable waist can fit up to a 46-inch waist. The length is also adjustable up to 36 inches, making this perfect for various user sizes.
It offers the most significant size adjustments across all the chaps in this list. If you are thick or tall, these chaps will fit you and keep you adequately protected.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
Just because you are on a budget does not mean you should forget to buy quality protective gear.
With this Oregon protection wear, you can do both. They are built to be durable and to keep you safe.
If you want the best return for your money, this is the best chap you should get.
Here’s what you’ll love
Adjustable waist up to 46 inches
Adjustable length up to 36 inches
UL-certified
Machine washable
Affordable
Here’s what you might not like
Buckles can be loose
It does not protect the inside of the ankle
#3 – Forrester Apron-Style Chainsaw Chaps
Quick Facts
Water and oil resistant
Large pocket
Kevlar chainsaw safety chaps
Performance
Forrester Apron Chaps give you excellent quality protection for the front of your legs. Forrester highlights it protects the parts of your legs most commonly susceptible to injuries during chainsaw operation.
However, note this product is not suitable for using a chainsaw with a corded electric power source, as they do not give you full coverage.
A verified review from a user even attested to its quality, saying these apron-style chaps have saved him from injury twice.
Design
These Forrester Apron Chaps come in three size options: 35 inches, 37 inches, and 40 inches. It also comes in seven color or pattern choices, giving you many choices for its style.
They can be adjusted to various leg sizes with two sets of buckles at the back and another buckle for adjusting the waist size.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
If you only need front coverage for your chainsaw chaps and are of average height, this apron-style chainsaw chap is perfect for you. As a bonus, you have a lot of color and style choices!
Here’s what you’ll love
Exciting color and pattern choices
Superior protection from injuries
Very affordable
UL-certified
Meets OSHA requirements
Here’s what you might not like
Not comfortable for someone tall
#4 – Labonville Full-Wrap Chainsaw Chaps
Quick Facts
Made from Kevlar and 1000-denier Cordura
Full sizing adjustability
Lots of pockets for your tools
Performance
These Labonville Full-Wrap Chainsaw Chaps are made of 5-play Kevlar layers with ankle wraps that give you top-of-the-line safety and comfort.
The inner and outer shell of these full-wrap chaps is made from robust 1000-denier Cordura, meaning it’s so durable, you could most likely perform woodworking tasks while blindfolded! Unless you’re a sane, rational person.
What we mean is it’s a chap guaranteed to give you one of the highest tear strength and abrasion-resistant qualities.
Design
You can choose between orange or green chaps. Just remember to wear regular pants or trousers underneath these chainsaw pants as it is meant to be used as an overlay.
These have additional features such as a tool pouch, utility belt, leg, and waist buckles to adjust the leg and waist size to fit you perfectly.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
Suppose you need more adjustability in sizing, full protection for your legs with ankle wrapping, and have a particular need for lots of pouches for your tools. If that’s the case, the Labonville chainsaw safety chaps are one set you should consider.
Here’s what you’ll love
Five size options
Made in the USA
Wraps around the lower leg
Affordable
Meets OSHA regulations
Here’s what you might not like
Straps may be too long
#5 – Husqvarna 531309565 Chain Saw Apron Chaps
Quick Facts
Can work with electric chainsaws
Superior construction
Single adjustable size
Performance
Most reported injuries for operating chainsaws involve the user’s legs. However, fear not!
These Husqvarna apron-style chaps are specially made to protect the front of your legs from any form of accidental harm.
If you lower a running chainsaw into your leg, the ballistic fibers in these chaps will quickly bind the chainsaw’s chains and make the blade stop—almost instantly. Usually, you’ll be able to walk away without a scratch.
Meeting relevant safety standards, including ASTM F1897, ANSI Z133.1, and OSHA 1910-266, these are perfect for occasional home use and as part of your professional safety gear.
Design
These chainsaw safety chaps come in a single, adjustable size that will fit most people. However, if you are taller or thicker than the average person, there might be a gap between the chaps’ bottom and the top of your boots.
While these safety chaps leave the backs of your legs bare, that will not be an issue for most people.
It’s hard to cut the back of your thigh with a chainsaw accidentally. Plus, it’s even hard to scratch your own back.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
If you’re of average size and looking for the best apron-style chainsaw chap you can get, this Husqvarna product may just be what you are looking for.
Here’s what you’ll love
Adjustable to fit most sizes
Available in blue. gray, and black
Meets ASTM, ANSI, and OSHA standards
Here’s what you might not like
No protection for the back of your legs
Twist around legs
#6 – Makita 841008-A Chainsaw Chap
Quick Facts
One size only (XL, 38 inches)
Apron-fit
Five buckles for adjustment
Performance
If your chainsaw is gas-powered, this Makita 841008-A chainsaw chap will work for you. For those that can fit in its size, this chainsaw chap will give you sufficient protection.
Makita states these are constructed with a material that reduces the severity of any injury incurred by a gas chainsaw that makes contact with your legs.
Note that Makita only guarantees it will protect your legs under certain conditions.
Design
It only comes in one size, which is XL at 38 inches. This means it may not be suitable for everyone.
It comes in a bright orange fabric for good visibility and has five adjustment straps with strong buckles for a secure fit.
Verified buyers state these chaps are lightweight and comfortable, making them an excellent alternative for carrying out light work in high temperatures.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
If you can fit into the 38-inch size and only use gas-powered chainsaws on a casual basis, these Makita chainsaw safety chaps will provide your legs with adequate protection.
Here’s what you’ll love
Lightweight
Comfortable
Excellent for gas-powered chainsaws
Good apron-fit
Here’s what you might not like
One size only
#7 – Forrester Chainsaw Safety Camo
Quick Facts
Apron-style chainsaw chap
Lots of pockets
Water and oil resistant
Performance
Made from a robust material, Kevlar, this chainsaw chap will give your legs sufficient protection to ensure their safety from chainsaw cuts.
It is also water and oil resistant, making it a versatile pair of chainsaw pants that can also be used for other types of wood and workshop work.
Design
These Forrester Chainsaw Safety Camo Chaps are designed in a camouflage pattern for those who prefer to blend into the background to avoid being disturbed while working.
This chainsaw chap comes in three size options and features three sets of adjustable straps so it can be modified to fit you exactly. The chainsaw pants remain secure, despite adjusting them to your leg and waist size.
You can also choose between eight unique designs, including brightly-colored models chainsaw pants.
It features ample pockets so you can keep your extra tools adequately stored. These Forrester chaps are also lightweight, allowing you to remain comfortable—even if working in the heat.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
If you’re not too tall for these chainsaw protective chaps, like the Camo design, and want something versatile and lightweight for working in the heat or on other projects, these Forrester chaps are perfectly designed for you.
Here’s what you’ll love
Long-lasting and durable
Three size options
Resistant to oil and water
Secure with adjustable leg and waist straps
Meets OSHA regulations
UL-certified
Here’s what you might not like
Not for tall users
#8 – SIP Protection Progress Chainsaw Pants
Quick Facts
Protection from sharp bark and thorns
Ventilation system
Waterproof smartphone pocket
Performance
SIP Protection is another famous brand loved by tree professionals globally. These chainsaw pants are also suitable for casual chainsaw operators and home users.
These chainsaw pants guarantee chainsaw protective features and offer you superior Class 1 chainsaw safety and protection with its high-tech Dyneema fibers.
The Elastic Texxion material used on the top layer will also give you plenty of flexibility while working.
Design
With Reinforced Armortex knee guards, these chainsaw pants will keep you from getting any injuries or tearing from sharp barks or thorny bushes.
To keep cool while working, there are ventilation zippers and mesh material at the back of the legs.
The back portion of these pants uses a Pezatec HV with a dirt-repellent Teflon finish to keep your chainsaw chaps clean. The inside lining is made of Nylnet anti-wicking to keep your legs comfortable.
Integrated gators with lace hooks allow this chainsaw chap to keep sawdust out of your boots.
This chainsaw chap will even offer protection and safety for your phone with its waterproof smartphone pocket with splash-proof zipper!
These SIP chainsaw chaps have two inset pockets with zip closures and one patched thigh pocket with flap and retro-reflective piping for your tools and other accessories.
Its sizes range from 30 inches to 44 inches, which is enough for most users. Its design is limited to khaki green/black.
Is This the Best Chainsaw Chaps for You?
Suppose you’re looking for chainsaw chaps that are comfortable, maneuverable, well ventilated, and lightweight for those hot summer days spent working under the heath.
If that’s the case, this SIP Protection Progress chainsaw chap is a dream come true for you.
Here’s what you’ll love
Sturdy, high-tech Dyneema fibers
Elastic Texxion material for added flexibility
Reinforced Armortex knee guards
Ventilation for comfort
Keeps sawdust off your boots
Here’s what you might not like
Expensive
Heavier than other chaps
What Do Chainsaw Chaps Do?
Chainsaw chaps are an essential part of the protective gear you should have on hand whenever working with or around chainsaws. They protect the wearer from serious harm.
Most of the chainsaw-related injuries reported each year in the USA alone involve the operator’s lower limbs. These body parts are more exposed to the chainsaw if accidents occur.
Chainsaw chaps work by having multiple layers of robust and protective fabric like nylon and kevlar, which bunch up and clog rotating chainsaws when making contact with the chaps.
The chaps withstand the worst of the force and the teeth. They can stall and jam your chainsaw when the teeth encounter your chaps.
Even if that does not happen, the chaps can lessen the torque so the teeth will not cause deep cuts on the operator.
This prevents your chainsaw from cutting into your leg, avoiding potential injuries or even death.
Types of Chainsaw Chaps
Type A
Type A chaps offer protection only to the front of your legs and have to be worn with regular work trousers. These are best for causal chainsaw operators and home users.
Type C
Type C chaps are not as user-friendly. They refer to chainsaw pants, overalls, or special trousers that give all-around protection to your legs.
They are worn as conventional trousers and are form-fitting. This means you do not and should not wear pants underneath them.
These are designed for professional chainsaw users.
What Should I Consider When Buying My Chainsaw Chaps?
Considering how important a role chainsaw chaps play in protecting you, you need to understand what factors to consider in selecting the right chaps for you.
What Type of Chainsaw Are You Using?
If you are shopping for chainsaw chaps, you should already know there are three types of chainsaws: corded electric, cordless or battery-powered, and gas chainsaws.
The right chainsaw chap for you will depend on the chainsaw you are using.
Using an electric chainsaw, getting a reliable chainsaw chap explicitly made for electric chainsaws is the right one for you.
Chainsaw chaps work by drawing out fibers from the layers of material in the pants. These bind up the drive sprocket, hopefully slowing or stopping your chainsaw. The fibers jam the chain and force it to stop.
Chainsaw chaps do not work with electric chainsaws because it is difficult to stall the torque of an electric motor.
Note that electric chainsaw chaps retail at a higher cost. So, it is not worth it if you are using a battery or gas-powered chainsaw.
Apron vs. Wrap-Around
It would help if you got the perfect fit of chainsaw chaps for you. There are two chaps you should consider.
The apron style does not protect your calves. It just hangs around your waist until your shins. They were developed to allow its wearer to stay cool while wearing just jeans or trousers beneath the apron.
However, it still covers the essential parts of your leg that are most likely to be cut during a chainsaw operation.
Wrap-around cover your thighs, shins, and calves. Full protection can also be purchased in safety chainsaw trousers, which are practically full-on pants. However, these can become incredibly hot to wear, especially in the summer, because of their thick material.
It is horrible to operate heavy machinery while feeling extremely hot, as it could cause fainting, slipping, or other errors.
Your Comfort
Considering how long you usually have to wear your chainsaw chaps, you should get the most comfortable pair for you.
The chap should have the perfect size (we will explain how to get the right measurement in the section below).
Remember it should not be too loose. Any excess material can stag on branches or the chainsaw itself, making it very dangerous for you.
It should still provide you with enough room for easy movement and should also have a manageable weight.
If it is too heavy, your chaps can compromise your movement and tire you out too quickly. If it is too light, it will likely be made of lower quality materials or construction.
The breathability of your chainsaw chaps also matters, especially if you intend to work a lot during the summer. As we have mentioned, heat and heavy machinery do not go well together.
Sizing
The correct way to measure yourself for new chainsaw chaps is to get someone to measure from your waistline to your instep while you stand upright. This will be the right size for you.
This protects all the essential parts of your legs, keeps your whole front cover, and has the additional benefit of maintaining sawdust off your shoes as it goes to the tops of your shoes.
Remember that chainsaw chaps should never be too loose or too small. If it is too loose, it could snag and get caught up in your chainsaw. If it is too small, it will be very uncomfortable for you.
What Material Is It Made Of?
Chainsaw chaps can be made of various materials. Some include polyester, ballistic, Denier, and Kevlar. Each material’s cost varies, so you should buy the one that fits your budget and need.
The maintenance required by each type of material also differs. Some can only be hand-washed, while others can be machine washed.
Considering how much chainsaw chaps cost, finding one you can take care of for a long time is essential.
Some materials cannot be washed, as it destroys the fabric’s protective qualities.
You need to know how to maintain the material of the chainsaw chaps you are buying and consider whether they can complement your lifestyle.
The material should be durable, so you will not have to spend on their replacement.
Proper Certification
Ensure that the safety gear you are using is certified as fully protective by the relevant agencies in your area or country.
Here, your chainsaw chaps should be U.S. Listed or UL-certified and should meet the OSHA 1970 regulations.
If the chaps are appropriately certified, this means they should have been rigorously tested for the right quality of materials, they are fit for their intended purpose, and they are highly likely to protect you if an emergency occurs.
Below is a summary of the regulations and certifications you should look for:
- U.L. Certified under 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
The Design
This may not be the most important consideration for you, but it can still break a tie between two compelling choices. It is not just all about the looks.
Your chainsaw chaps should have deep and robust pockets. This will provide you with enough storage for all your small knick-knacks and accessories, so you don’t lose them along the way.
It should also be adjustable to allow your chaps to fit various sizes. This will let you share the chainsaw chaps among family members or workmates.
What Other Safety Gear Should You Wear While Using Your Chainsaw?
Considering how much power a chainsaw has, you must keep every part of your body protected while operating a chainsaw.
Remember, all it takes is a split second of inattention for a sudden chainsaw kickback, flying wood chips, thick brush, or a falling tree branch to cause an injury.
We recommend you wear the following safety gear whenever you’re operating chainsaws:
- Safety Glasses
- Hearing Protection
- Chaps
- Pants
- Gloves
- Boots
- Helmets
- Jackets, Vests & Sleeves
Our Top Picks
Winner
Husqvarna 587160704 Technical Apron Wrap Chap
Various chainsaw chap reviews have unanimously concluded this Husqvarna Technical Apron Wrap as the best chap you can purchase if your budget allows.
It offers full protection and meets all safety certifications, guaranteeing your protection from chainsaw operation.
Runner-Up
Oregon Chainsaw Chaps
Another chap from a trusted chainsaw manufacturer, this protective gear gives you eight layers of protection with breathable and durable material.
We love how flexible its size adjustments are. If you are exceptionally tall or thick, this is the best chap for you.
Conclusion
This chainsaw chaps review has highlighted the best options you have available for you on the market today.
They offer high-quality design and metals you should not skimp on when your safety is concerned.
With these chaps on, you can focus on cutting, knowing you are adequately protected.