Tree work is one of the most hazardous jobs going — chainsaws, height, and falling limbs all at once. The right gear isn't optional. Use this head-to-toe checklist to make sure your kit (or your crew's) is complete. For chainsaw-cut protection specifically, see our chainsaw safety gear guide.
The head-to-toe arborist checklist
| Zone | Gear | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Head / face / ears | Forestry helmet + visor + earmuffs | Impact, debris & chainsaw noise |
| Body | Hi-vis, cut-resistant layers | Visibility & abrasion |
| Legs | Chainsaw trousers / chaps | Stop a moving chain |
| Hands | Cut-resistant gloves | Grip & cut protection |
| Feet | Chainsaw-rated boots | Chain & crush protection |
| Aloft | Climbing harness | Fall protection at height |
| Site | First-aid kit | Fast response to injury |
Head, eyes and ears
A forestry helmet system protects your head, face and hearing in one unit — helmet shell, mesh or clear visor, and earmuffs. It's the single most important piece for anyone near a running saw. Shop safety helmets →
Legs: chainsaw trousers or chaps
Chainsaw trousers and chaps have layers of loose fibre that jam a chain on contact. They're rated by class (1–3) for chain speed — pick to match your saw and work. Shop chainsaw protection →
Feet: chainsaw-rated boots
Chainsaw boots add protective material in the front and instep that a standard safety boot doesn't have. They're a must for saw work. Shop forestry & chainsaw boots →
Don't forget height safety and first aid
For climbing and aloft work you need a rated climbing harness and fall-protection system. And every tree-work site should carry a stocked first-aid kit within easy reach — with chainsaws in play, fast response matters. Browse the full forestry PPE range.
Frequently asked questions
What PPE does an arborist need in NZ?
Tree work needs head-to-toe protection: a forestry helmet with visor and earmuffs, chainsaw-protective trousers or chaps, chainsaw-rated safety boots, cut-resistant gloves, hi-vis, eye protection, and a climbing harness for aloft work — plus a well-stocked first-aid kit on site.
Do I need chainsaw boots for tree work?
Yes. Chainsaw-rated boots have protective layers in the front and instep that help stop a moving chain. Standard safety boots don't offer this, so dedicated chainsaw/forestry boots are essential for anyone running a saw.
What helmet do arborists use?
Arborists use a forestry helmet system that combines head protection with a mesh or clear visor and earmuffs in one unit, so eyes and hearing are protected against flying debris and chainsaw noise at the same time.
What chainsaw protection rating do I need?
Chainsaw clothing is rated by class for chain speed (commonly Class 1 at 20 m/s, Class 2 at 24 m/s, Class 3 at 28 m/s). Higher classes suit more demanding professional cutting — choose based on your saw and work.
Kiwi Workgear are workwear and safety specialists based in Masterton, supplying tradies, farmers and forestry crews across New Zealand since 2009. Free NZ shipping on orders over $250.
