Cut protection classes
Cut resistant clothing for your safety
By choosing clothing that meets the cut protection class you are much better protected when using a chainsaw. Don't take any risks: with STIHL you are protected.

How Chainsaw Protection Works
All chainsaw-resistant work clothing generally follows the same principle: the rotating chain stops when it comes into contact with the user's body. STIHL chainsaw-resistant trousers jackets and shoes use special very long fine and very cut-resistant high-tech fibres. These fibres consist of several smooth layers and are covered by the outer layer of the clothing. When the chain comes into contact with the clothing the fibres become tangled and come loose. The long strong threads then wrap around the drive sprocket which quickly stops the chainsaw.
STIHL safety shoes have a special coating that protects against rotationchainsawBlocking. In all cut protection classes this layer runs over the entire forefoot including the tongue. This layer significantly extends the durability of the material. Our cut-resistant boots also have a steel toe cap that can effectively slow down a chainsaw.
Explanation of cut protection classes for saw clothing
Not all safety equipment is suitable for all users. Cut protection classes indicate cut-resistant clothing based on the maximum chain speed against which protection is provided. The four cut protection classes range from 0 to 3. Each designation is described below.
Please note that the cut protection classes are for guidance only as most accidents occur when the chainsaw is stationary i.e. at relatively low speeds. Factors such as sharpness tension and chain impact cannot be included in standardised tests to determine cut protection classes. Personal protective equipment does not provide absolute protection against injury and is not a substitute for safe working practices. It is therefore essential to follow the instructions in the manuals of the personal protective equipment and machines as well as all accident prevention regulations applicable in your country.
Cut protection: choosing the right class
Each class is designed for a specific situation. Class 1 cut protection is generally suitable for use in forests or at home while higher classes are mainly intended for trained professionals such as emergency services.
STIHL safety clothing for use with a chainsaw
STIHL offerscut protection clothingIn the different classes you can therefore be sure that you are well protected when working with a chainsaw.
STIHL chainsaw protective clothing is tested by the renowned European testing institutes SMP and KWF. This guarantees that all chainsaw-resistant fabrics that you buy from STIHL offer reliable and rigorously tested protection. This pictogram indicates chainsaw-resistant clothing and footwear that have been tested in accordance with EN 381 or EN ISO 11393. In these standardised tests the chain hits the protective layer at a certain speed and can only pass through it. The lining of the chainsaw-resistant trousers must not be damaged.

Maintenance of saw protection clothing
Even without direct impact cut-resistant clothing is constantly used and exposed to dirt. That's why it's important to wash it after every use. Here's how to best maintain your clothing:
- Machine wash at a maximum temperature of 60 degrees Celsius and 400 revolutions per minute or less
- Do not use bleach or chemical cleaning agents
- Do not wash clothing with cut protection inside out
- Close Velcro and zippers before washing
- Wash similar colors together
- Use a mild dye or detergent but no fabric softener
- Allow to air dry after washing
- Iron at low temperature to reactivate the dirt and water resistance of the outer layer
- Store clothes in a dry dark place and make sure they are thoroughly cleaned
Boots with cut protection also require special maintenance to remain in good condition for a long time:
- Clean boots as soon as they become visibly dirty
- Use water or a mild soap solution to remove stubborn dirt
- Do not dry directly next to a heat source
- Do not dry in the sun
- Store in a dry place
When purchasing leather boots with cut protection you should also consider the following:
- Before first use treat the boots with a protective product or leather grease.
- Wear them in dry weather the first time: the fabric closes the pores and seams
- Use cleaning products regularly but not too much
Summary: Cut protection classes for saw clothing
- There are four cut protection classes for saw clothing numbered 0 to 3.
- Cut protection classes indicate the resistance levels at different chain speeds.
- Protection class 1 is the standard protection class.
- STIHL offers a wide range of protective clothing for saws.
- Always wear personal protective equipment when working with machines as described in theinstructions for useand check itsize chart.