Rattlesnake-proof clothing
Hello! I am hoping that the hivemind will have information for me, because there's all sorts of conflicting information on the net.
I have a friend that does a lot of yardwork, and a great deal of this seems to be clearing out waist-high weeds in yards that back up to the greenbelt. He has encountered rattlesnakes on more than one occasion. Fortunately, the rattlesnakes rattle their warning and let him know to back off- but there is always that chance of being bitten without seeing them. He picked up gaiters, but when he's weeding, he has to grab hold of the monster thistles and yank them by the roots, by hand.
I've been searching the internet to see what is made for arms, for hands, and even for chest protection against snakebite. Some sites suggest leather, some suggest canvas, some suggest cordura...while other sites state that these don't work.
The actual clothing is not the issue- I can sew up gaiters, chaps, sleeves, gloves, or what have you. The issue is: which material would be best? It's got to be flexible, preferably not stiff or too uncomfortable/heavy, but it has to prevent rattlesnake teeth from touching his skin.
I need input, please. Does anyone have experience in this area? What have you found that works for you?
Oh, and please don't say, "The best way to prevent being bitten is to avoid going where snakes are located," because this is his job and he's not going to stop. That's not helpful.
