As useful as they are, chainsaws are inherently dangerous. This is why experts recommend wearing personal protective equipment anytime you're using a chainsaw.
In particular, you’ll want to ensure that you invest in the best chainsaw helmets on the market. As you’ll come to learn, these hard hats do a lot more than simply provide head protection. The following is a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision regarding which chainsaw hard hat to purchase.
The 5 Best Chainsaw Helmet Reviews
1. TR Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet
Looking for the best chainsaw helmet that’s not too pricey and has an excellent selection of features? If so, look no further than the TR Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet.
Weighing about 2.6 pounds, this helmet is relatively lightweight. Thus, you don’t have to worry about it weighing you down when you’re in the field. Better yet, you get to pick from two bright colors: orange and yellow.
Another feature you’ll love about the TR Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet is how snugly it fits on one’s head. It’s conveniently equipped with a dial knob, making it easy to adjust its size based on your head’s circumference.
Moreover, the package includes a ton of other very handy accessories. These include adjustable and removable earmuffs that offer a noise reduction rating of about 26dB.
Thanks to this ear-protection system, you can work for longer without experiencing discomfort. You will also get to choose between plastic and mesh visors.
If you’re reluctant to invest in this industrial forestry safety helmet, you can rest easy knowing that it’s undergone the necessary testing for safety hard hats. The conclusion from these tests was that all its parts are ANSI and CE approved. To prove this, the helmet carries a Z89.1-2003 ANSI rating.
Pros
Cons
Husqvarna is a renowned power tool brand that’s revered for its quality. So it’s not surprising that one of their inventions has made it to our top-rated list.
Right off the bat, the first thing you’ll notice about the Husqvarna ProForest Helmet System is that it comes in a hi viz orange color.
This allows it to provide maximum visibility, which is particularly important when you’re working with high-powered tools like professional chainsaws.
The fact that this chainsaw safety helmet comes in a one size fits all is another aspect that makes it unique. This means that it’s designed to fit anyone, regardless of head size.
Also contributing to the comfort of this helmet is the six-point suspension system that Husqvarna equipped it with. This feature gives you the freedom to make necessary adjustments to the depth of how it sits on your head. This way, you avoid exerting too much pressure on your head.
You’ll also be impressed with the range of accessories that are included with the Husqvarna ProForest. In addition to the helmet, you also get a rain shield, a rain neck protector, and hearing protectors with a 25dB NRR rating.
Worried that you won't get the most out of your investment? Well, there's no need as this helmet has undergone testing. It's been found to comply with ANSI Z89.1 2003 class G, E standards.
Pros
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The Oregon 563474 is without a doubt the best professional chainsaw helmet. It comes in a bright yellow color, so it improves your visibility significantly.
More importantly, the material used in its construction makes it an impact-resistant helmet. So if there are any falling branches while you’re working with a chainsaw, you won’t end up with a concussion as this helmet will shield your head.
To add to this, it comes with a stainless steel mesh visor that’s designed in a wider size than typical chainsaw helmets. This allows it to offer better coverage, and subsequently, greater protection.
This helmet also boasts in-built earmuffs that provide exceptional hearing protection.
Also worth pointing out are the 6 ventilation holes integrated into the Oregon 563474 helmet. The purpose of these is to enhance breathability.
Unlike the Husqvarna helmet, this one does not come in a one-size-fits-all. Instead, it has an adjustable harness that lets you fit the helmet firmly.
And if you’re concerned about this helmet’s safety rating, feel at ease as it’s undergone numerous tests. Based on this, it’s been found to comply with ANSI Z89.1-2009, Class C, E, and G.
Pros
Cons
Have you been searching for a chainsaw helmet that will give you the best value for your money? If you have, the NoCry helmet kit is exactly what you need.
For less than $40, you’ll get the NoCry safety helmet, an adjustable mesh visor, plastic visor, and a pair of SNR earmuffs.
The metallic mesh visor shields you from any flying debris whereas the face shield provides maximum eye protection. The earmuffs have a 25.9 dB SNR rating, which is a system for determining the level of hearing protection offered. And they’re adjustable too!
Overall, you’ll be getting a pretty decent offering, considering other manufacturers only offer a chainsaw helmet for a similar price.
Another thing that makes this a top-rated chainsaw helmet is its versatility, that is, it’s not limited to chainsaw operators. If you’re planning to use a brushcutter, hedge trimmer, or shrub trimmer, this hard hat will come in handy.
It’s also fully adjustable, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The internal headband can be adjusted to fit heads with a circumference ranging from 54 cm to 62 cm. Each visor can also be configured at varying angles and depth positions. And the earmuffs can be rotated to the rear.
Pros
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Some chainsaw helmets fall on the heavier side of the weight spectrum. The problem with such hard hats is that they can’t be worn for a long time.
Thankfully, the Stihl ProMark Forestry Helmet is an exception. It’s made of a lightweight ABS thermoplastic shell, creating a very light helmet.
We were particularly impressed to learn that its light structure doesn’t compromise its protection level. This hard hat boasts a 6-point ratchet-style suspension system providing a decent amount of shock absorption.
Like most of the safety helmets we’ve reviewed, this one also has a visor. The visor is a steel mesh screen that covers your entire face to shield you from debris. Furthermore, it has an integrated rain gutter that channels rainwater away from your face in case of a downpour.
Stihl has also equipped this chain saw helmet with its NRR 25 dB earmuffs to provide ample ear protection. This way, you can work comfortably for hours without getting disrupted by the noise from your power tool.
Pros
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Why are Chainsaw Helmets Necessary?
If you’re an experienced industrial worker, you might assume that a chainsaw helmet isn't necessary. But the contrary is actually true. Here are a few reasons why you should consider investing in a chainsaw helmet:
Protection Against Head Injuries
The greatest benefit offered by this helmet is protection against head injuries.
If you work as a professional arborist or construction worker, you face the risk of heavy debris falling on your head. If you don’t have a helmet on, such impact can cause significant injuries like a traumatic brain injury.
Protection from Bad Weather
While this is not their primary function, it doesn’t hurt that some chainsaw safety helmets are UV protected.
Such hard hats are fitted with a UV-protected face screen, shielding you from the harsh rays of the sun. And even if the face-shield lacks UV protection, it still protects you from snow, dust, and particles that could be thrown in your direction by the wind.
This allows you to work in conditions that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to; hence, maximizing your productivity.
Increases Visibility
If you were keen, you probably noticed that all the chainsaw helmets we reviewed come in bright colors; specifically, orange or yellow.
The reason for this is so that they can improve the visibility of the wearer. This is particularly useful for individuals who work in the road construction sector. The bright color of the helmet improves a worker’s visibility to motorists and other road users.
On some occasions, these brightly colored helmets are offered to new hires and visitors for identification purposes.
How to Choose the Right Chainsaw Helmet
Work Type
A common mistake the workers make is to buy just any helmet without regard for their profession.
Here’s the deal, different safety helmets are equipped with special features so they can offer the best level of protection based on the work that you do.
So before you rush to make any online purchases, think about the niche you’re operating in. Is it forestry, landscaping, or road construction? For instance, if your job is felling trees, then the best chainsaw helmets are those that also offer hearing protection.
Adjustability
Although some brands like Husqvarna make helmets that are one size fits all, you should ensure that it fits snugly on your head.
It shouldn’t be too loose as it might keep falling off, which would render it inefficient. But it also shouldn’t be too tight that it exerts unnecessary pressure.
To avoid this, look for one that has an adjustable harness or chin strap. Better yet, visit a brick-and-mortar store, and try on the helmet before purchasing it online.
Visors
Whether it's wood chips, snow, or dust, any kind of debris that flies in your direction can impede your visibility, slow you down, or even pose a safety risk.
For this reason, you should confirm that the chainsaw safety helmets you’re about to purchase have visors. Some helmets come with both mesh and plastic visors. But regardless of the type of face shield you get, it will help to protect your eyes without impeding visibility.
Better yet, invest in a helmet with anti-fog goggles, which provide protection specifically to your eyes.
Earmuffs
There’s no denying that chainsaws are loud pieces of machinery. In fact, it’s estimated that the gas-powered models generate noise that exceeds 100 dB(A).
Now considering that you’ll be using this tool for several hours at a time, this noise can lead to hearing loss or worse, complete impairment. To avoid this, your best bet is to invest in a chainsaw helmet equipped with an efficient hearing protection system
This saves you money and the trouble of having to look for hearing protectors that are compatible with your hard hat.
UV Protection
Working for extended periods of time under the hot sun comes with a certain set of risks. Such overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can not only cause skin damage but also heatstroke and hives.
Thankfully, you can avoid these risks by investing in a UV-protected hard hat or protective helmet. Sure, it may be slightly more expensive. But the benefits you get from it are worth every penny.
Ventilation
One reason that workers cite for not wearing a helmet is the fact that they’re not breathable.
It’s no secret that covering your head with a helmet, especially for several hours at a time, can impede heat loss. But the solution is not neglecting to wear these hard hats. Rather, you should look for one that has a proper ventilation system.
Certifications & Safety Standards
Are you the type of individual who doubts the protection offered by a chainsaw helmet? If you are, you’ll be pleased to learn that these hard hats undergo thorough tests prior to being released in the market.
So before purchasing one, check whether it has certifications from organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for American products and CE for European products.
Comfort
If you’re thinking of buying personal protective gear, there’s a good chance that you use your chainsaw quite frequently.
Therefore, you’ll want to ensure that the helmet you purchase not only offers protection but is also comfortable to wear. One aspect that enhances comfort is when a chainsaw helmet has ventilation holes to facilitate ample airflow.
Materials
The sole reason for buying a chainsaw helmet is so that it can offer maximum protection, especially from falling objects.
In that regard, ensure that the material used in the helmet’s build offers excellent shock absorption. Examples of materials that excel in this function are thermoplastic (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and fiberglass.
On the same note, pay attention to the material used to make the visor. A mesh visor keeps you cool and minimizes the risk of fogging. Conversely, a visor made of plastic has the upper hand when it comes to durability.
Durability
If you use your chainsaw on the daily, there’s a good chance that you’ll wear a helmet frequently.
For this reason, confirm that the hard hat you buy offers unmatched durability. You will also need to take care of your safety helmet so it can offer you a longer service.
Weight
Your chainsaw helmet ought to be sturdy and durable.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that it should be bulky and heavy. If you can try one at a brick-and-mortar store before buying online, the better. This way, you can determine whether the protective helmet is comfortable enough to wear for a long period.
FAQs
What should I look for in a chainsaw helmet?
There are a couple of features you should look for when you decide to purchase a helmet.
The most important of these is whether it adheres to international safety standards (ANSI, CE). The best chain saw helmet should be comfortable to wear without compromising on durability. And it should have a visor for extra face protection.
Which Stihl Helmet is best?
The Stihl 7010-871-0199 ProMark is one of the best helmets on the market. It meets multiple safety standards set by international bodies.
The ABS thermoplastic material used to make this helmet keeps it light whilst providing maximum protection. And it comes with extra accessories like the NRR 25 earmuffs and mesh visor to shield your face from flying debris.
Do you need a helmet when using a chainsaw?
Yes, you should wear a helmet each time you plan to use a chainsaw.
Though many operators ignore this piece of protective gear, we find it incredibly helpful. A quality helmet offers an excellent impact protection system, shielding you from the forestry dangers you may encounter when felling trees.
What is a forestry helmet?
A forestry safety helmet is simply a hard hat designed to offer head protection to individuals who work in the forestry industry, more so those who work in the field. Whether you’re a researcher, an arborist, or a woodworker, you can benefit significantly from investing in a chainsaw helmet.
Conclusion
There are several pieces of protective gear that you should invest in if you use a chainsaw. One that shouldn’t be ignored is a chainsaw safety helmet.
If you’ve been thinking of buying it, one of the best chainsaw helmets is the TR Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet. It comes in two bright color options: yellow and orange. This gives you the freedom to pick one in your favorite hue.
More importantly, it’s a multifunctional chainsaw helmet. While its main function is to keep your head from getting hit by falling debris, it also has adjustable earmuffs and two visors.
Plus, it’s designed to fit perfectly, regardless of your head size. This is achieved by using a dial knob that makes it easy to adjust the circumference.