The challenge of combating wildfires demands not just bravery and skill but also the best possible protective gear.
In this arena, the Gen2 Wildfire Chaps by Clogger stand out as a groundbreaking advancement, promising to significantly elevate the safety, efficiency, and comfort of wildland firefighters.
Drawing insights from extensive research, industry feedback, and the latest material technologies, this article explains why the Gen2 Wildfire Chaps are a game-changer in wildfire fighting gear.
A New Era in Protection
Wildland firefighting is an arduous task, where the protection against both the elements and the dangers of the job is paramount. We owe it to these individuals who put their blood, sweat and tears into this job to protect life and possessions.
Wildland firefighters need to have protection that enhances their job not restricts it.
Historically, chainsaw operators have been constrained by regulations to use gear that, while compliant, has not always met the evolving needs of the front lines.
The introduction of the Gen2 Wildfire Chaps marks a pivotal shift, engineered to exceed the latest Redbook amendments and NFPA 1977 standards, ensuring that operators are equipped with gear that’s as dynamic and resilient as the environments they face.
How are they different though?
- They are Breathable: Utilizing Clogger’s exclusive Arrestex FR chainsaw fabric, these chaps offer unparalleled air circulation, preventing overheating and ensuring comfort even in the most intense conditions.
- They have Flexibility: Designed for agility, the chaps allow for unrestricted movement, crucial for navigating rough terrain and responding quickly to changing situations.
- Less Bulky Weight: At just over 2 pounds for a medium size, the chaps are designed to reduce fatigue without compromising on protection, making them ideal for extended wear.
- Reduced Snagging Risk: A streamlined design minimizes the chances of catching on vegetation, enhancing mobility and safety in dense underbrush.
- They are 100% Fire Resistant: Every component is fire-resistant, offering peace of mind in fast moving wildfire environments.
- You can Wash them: Able to be washed in an industrial washing machine, the chaps can be kept in optimal condition, removing flammable contaminants and extending their service life.
- Increased Chainsaw Protective Area: From waist to ankle, the chaps offer robust protection against not just fire but also the potential for injury from chainsaw accidents, significantly enhancing operator safety.
- BONUS – They pack down small: This bonus benefit has been added since the chaps launch after hearing from various ones. Due to the fact the chaps are so flexible and have reduced bulk, they can be rolled tightly taking up less space in storage and in packs. Important when space is a premium and extra weight is a burden.
Watch Lincoln explains the Wildfire Chaps
Spider diagram of the Clogger Wildfire benefits in comparison to other makes.
Are they Compliant though?
Meeting and surpassing the stringent requirements of the North American standards and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for both the USA and Canada, the Gen2 Wildfire Chaps are a testament to Clogger’s commitment to quality and safety.
Many hours have been spent designing the patterns, testing fabrics and trialing in the field.
By not only adhering to but exceeding current standards, Clogger is setting a new benchmark for what firefighters can expect from their protective gear.
Continual Improvement
One of the values that run through the veins of Clogger is Continual Improvement. Feedback from the field is highly valued. It drives our product development. Countless hours are spent huddled round a sewing machine or design table. Empty coffee cups indicate overly caffeinated brains.
There were multiple variants produced on the way to the current model. Each built on a previous problem that was discovered. Each went that little bit further.
Continual Improvement is a journey and it is never finished.
Price
We don’t shy away from the fact that these are not the cheapest chainsaw chaps in the market.
There’s a reason for their price though. It’s simple.
They’re fire resistant.
Fully fire-resistant.
And non-melting.
From the outer fabric to the saw blocking material, the lining and even the straps. Everything is fire-resistant. The fibres that go into these specialist materials are not cheap so the manufacturing cost of the raw materials is significantly higher.
Which does point up the question that the currently available Wildfire chaps of other brands are not fire-resistant.
We think they should be.
Numerous stories have been told to us of burnt holes in the outer fabric from hot embers or melted straps.
If you want what has been there for many years then they are still available. Yes, they’ll cost less but you won’t be able to lift your game.
Conclusion: To wrap it all up
The Gen2 Wildfire Chaps represent more than just a product; they are a commitment to the safety, efficiency, and comfort of those who put themselves on the line to protect us from wildfires. Enabling these firefighters to have a product they don’t know they have on.
Because, isn’t that the ultimate goal?
If you don’t know you are wearing the extra protection then they have done their job.
That’s the difference.
Take a look at them here: USA Wildfire Chaps or Canada Wildfire Chaps
There’s even a tool pouch that goes with these as well, you can see it here for USA or here for Canada.