Number one rule is work safely, there is no substitute for it, but safety gear can save you (or minimize) the minor mistakes. Nothing (other than the steel toe) will save U from a direct assault! Always remember where UR limbs are, U don't get replacements.
This is a dangerous activity that we engage in, and there are no second chances.
I cut many years with only gloves, regular leather boots, glasses and ear muffs, but the safety stuff makes sense, as long as you don't rely on it.
The other day I was cutting, and even though the chain did not come near me, I did something that triggered the chain break, and that is another real nice safety feature we did not used to have (I kinda just smiled to myself and thought it is nice how well that works).
I ALWAYS wear gloves, and a helmet when I'm dropping trees (something will come down and hit U some day). I paid 2 bills for the Haix boots on sale. Feel like Frankenstein when I wear them, but they seem very sturdy. They R supposed to have "cut protection". I have never touched myself with the saw, other than cutting myself when sharpening it, but both my brother and MechanicMatt restyled their boots, so I figured it may run in the family, and I wanted to be ready if my time comes!
Plus if Yank was wearing them at the GTG, his ankle may not have hurt so much!
Be safe out there!