Some of the most dangerous machines are outdoor power equipment. You could be landscaping in your yard, or cutting wood in the forest on a large scale.
Either way, it’s better to prepare in advance and wear the proper safety gear and clothing.
Both chainsaw chaps and pants are designed with your safety in mind, first and foremost. A lot of people were asking, “Chainsaw Chaps vs. Pants - What’s the difference?”
We value your safety and your wellbeing. So we decided to explore the differences between chaps and pants, as well as other interesting facts about these ultra-important protective gear.
Let’s dive in!
Comparing Between Chainsaw Chaps and Pants
Anyone who uses outdoor power equipment knows all about personal protection equipment (PPE). PPE manufacturers are always on the look-out for the latest materials and fabrics.
Their aim is to provide you with high levels of safety. They also make sure that all their gear is comfortable, lightweight, and convenient.
They all agree that there are certain factors you have to take into consideration when it comes to choosing either chainsaw pants or chaps.
First, you have to think about the type of job you’ll be doing, as well as the type of work environment you’ll be in and what the weather will be like.
But, at the end of the day, it’s simply a matter of personal preference.
Similarities
For the most part, you can easily find several features that chaps and pants have in common.
Chainsaw Chaps
Chaps protective safety gear are worn over your jeans or pants. They’re your main source of protection when using chainsaws. This type of protective gear is made with blocking material that’s made of layers of loosely woven fabric. The outermost layer can be both durable and slippery.
The inner layers are made of interwoven fibers that obstruct and stop the sprocket of the chainsaw as soon as it comes in contact with your chaps. This prevents the chain from moving and causing any harm to your leg.
More layers mean more protection. As you’re buying chaps, you’ll come across the term ‘Denier.’ This term refers to the thickness of each individual fiber thread. Chaps can be anywhere between 400 - 1000 Denier.
These layers are made with the following:
If a machine does cut into your chaps, it’s best to throw them. If they have a small tear on the outer covering, you can contact the manufacturer and see if they can repair them.
It’s recommended that you wash your chaps on the gentle cycle. Avoid placing them in the dryer. It’s better if you lay them flat out to dry.
Chainsaw Pants
Chainsaw pants are also made with the same types of materials as chaps. They offer maximum protection from chainsaws and other outdoor power equipment. These pants provide you with the same outer protective covering to prevent injuries or minimize their impact if one should occur.
The thickness of individual threads in the fabric is also measured in Denier, similar to chaps. The higher the Denier, the thicker the materials.
If your pants were ever in contact with a machine and got ripped or torn, it’s best to throw them away and get yourself a new pair. If they have a small tear, contact the manufacturer and ask them if they think it can be repaired.
Wash your pants on a gentle cycle, and air dry only. Don’t put your pants in the dryer, or you risk damaging the outer protective covering.
Differences
The main differences between chaps and pants are in their design, cut, and price. Another difference is in how frequently they’re used.
Chainsaw Chaps
Chaps are cheaper than chainsaw pants. They cover the front of the legs, from your waist all the way down to your calves. Plus, you end up using more chaps than pants, on average. Because you need a good number of replacements. Their overall annual price can end up costing you more.
To find your size, measure from your waist to your ankles or instep. The waist size itself is easily adjusted with the help of the waistband.
Another difference between chaps and pants is that chainsaw chaps can be worn by several people. They’re often treated poorly. This results in a shorter life span because you’ll need more replacements.
Chainsaw Pants
While pants may cost more, they have a longer life span than chaps. They’re the responsibility of the one person who uses them. Plus, they don’t get taken on and off repeatedly like chaps. So they’re actually quite cost-effective.
Chainsaw pants are sized to the person’s waist and inseam. This is a great feature that allows for a unique, personalized fit. Having that perfect fit reduces injuries.
Plus, it provides you with a very snug and comfortable pair of pants. Wearing ill-fitting PPE can be a real safety hazard.
Another difference is that pants require more breathability and better airflow. That’s why manufacturers use high-tech fabrics that are both lighter and thinner than those used to make chaps.
Also, the way the material is cut is different. Pants must be cut in a way to boost their flexibility. This allows for smoother mobility when doing various jobs, such as climbing.
Uses
Both chaps and pants are made from high-quality protective material. This makes them perfect for all types of dangerous outdoor jobs.
Chainsaw Chaps
Chainsaw chaps should never be worn when climbing or when you’re feeding a wood chipper. Chaps are more convenient when doing landscaping, or maybe some yard work.
Chaps are basically great for a quick chainsaw job that won’t take more than 30 minutes. The only thing you have to remember is to adjust them properly to get that perfect fit. You can wear your chaps for almost any type of outdoor job.
It’s easier to put on chaps, then once you’re done, quickly unstrap them and take them off.
There are 2 types of chaps:
Aprons
Apron chaps cover the front parts of your legs, starting at your waist and going all the way down to your ankles. They don’t cover the back of your legs in any way.
Aprons are lighter and easier to move around in. They’re best used with casual, household, and landscaping jobs.
Wrap-Arounds
Wrap-around chaps cover your entire leg. They wrap around the lower half of your legs, so your thighs, shins, and calves are all covered.
Wrap-arounds provide more protection because they’re made with extra layers. They’re heavier and bulkier than apron chaps. Yet they’re the best choice if you’re constantly working in a high-energy, high-risk work environment.
Chainsaw Pants
Pants are often sought out by those who use a chainsaw for a major part of their day. They want the comfort, fit, and all-around protection that the pants provide.
Those who climb or feed wood through a chipper also should opt for chainsaw pants, rather than chaps.
Chainsaw pants come in 2 classes:
Type A
This class of pants has protective blocking material on the front of the pant legs only.
Type C
These types of pants have protective blocking material around both the front and back of the pant leg.
Benefits
The benefits of wearing either chainsaw chaps or pants are so many we don't know where to start. Most importantly is that they provide you with optimal protection when you’re working outdoors.
Chainsaw Chaps
- They’re lower in price.
- They can be used by different people because chaps aren’t a personal garment.
- You can take them off easily once you’ve completed your job.
- If the weather is hot, chaps are open at the back, so they provide you with some ventilation.
Chainsaw Pants
- You can wear chainsaw pants at the beginning of the day, so you’re safely dressed for any job.
- They’re individually sized, so they fit correctly, reducing the risk of snagging or splitting.
A Final Note
We hope we’ve covered all the basics in our comparison of chainsaw chaps vs. pants. They come with their different set of features, their pros, and cons, as well as their many benefits.
So it’s up to you to decide which type of protective gear will provide you with the maximum protective covering.
You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to stay safe. Make sure you’re well-prepared and fully protected against any safety hazards you may encounter.
