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Choosing the right pair of chainsaw trousers is a crucial decision for any professional. They are your primary line of defence and a key part of your day-to-day comfort and mobility. At WGM, we’ve been helping professionals find their perfect fit for over two decades, and few trousers have proven as popular and reliable as the Arbortec Breatheflex range.

In this guide, we’ll do a deep dive into what makes these trousers a staple in the arborist industry. We'll specifically compare the standard Breatheflex with the professional-grade Breatheflex Pro to help you make an informed decision.

The Core Difference: Breatheflex vs Breatheflex Pro

While both trousers offer fantastic protection, the key differences lie in their material composition, durability, and features designed for the most demanding work environments.

• Arbortec Breatheflex: This model is the workhorse of the range. It’s a superb all-rounder, offering excellent protection and comfort. Made from a durable but breathable material, they are a fantastic option for a wide range of professional tasks. They feature pockets in all the right places and an athletic fit.
• Arbortec Breatheflex Pro: This is the flagship model, designed for the professional arborist who spends all day, every day in a tree. The Pro model features a unique Kevlar-reinforced protective layer for increased durability and a more rugged material throughout the trouser. They also come with additional features such as reinforced seams, an improved pocket layout and even an integrated gaiter.

For a full overview of the brand's history and other products, check out our Ultimate Guide to Arbortec.

Safety First: EN Standards & Protective Layers

Both the Breatheflex and Breatheflex Pro trousers are certified to EN 381-5, the standard for leg protection. This means they are certified to protect against chainsaw cuts. The protective layer, known as Avertic Pro on the Pro models, is a multi-layered material designed to jam the chainsaw chain on contact, stopping it instantly. This is a non-negotiable feature of any professional-grade chainsaw trousers.

Beyond Protection: Comfort & Performance

What truly sets Arbortec apart is their focus on performance. Both trousers are designed with a technical, stretch-fit material that allows for a full range of motion, which is essential for climbing and manoeuvring in a tree. They also feature ventilation zippers to help you stay cool during warm weather. This attention to detail is why they are a top choice for professionals.

• Pockets & Features: Pockets are strategically placed for easy access, and the trousers are designed to integrate seamlessly with other PPE, such as Arbortec Chainsaw Boots. Complete your setup with the perfect pair of boots by reading our guide to Arbortec Footwear. The trousers also come with YKK Zips, adjustable waistbands and are available in Type A or Type C Protection levels, plus a wide range of colours and sizes. 

Which Pair is Right for You?

• For Professionals: If you are a full-time arborist and depend on your gear every day, the Breatheflex Pro is a wise investment. The added durability and features will pay dividends over time. We've also got an article detaining Arbortec's wide range of Kit Bags, Accessories & other clothing, to compliment your PPE setup HERE
• For Occasional Use: For professionals who only use a chainsaw occasionally, or for demanding domestic users, the standard Breatheflex trousers offer superb performance and protection at a lower price point.