Bushwalk Australia

What do people wear to defend themselves from being excessively speared by spear grasses (black spear grass in my instance)?

I recently walked off-track up Mount Louisa in Townville, North Queensland, and returned rather uncomfortable with a couple of hundred spear heads in my shirt, shorts, shoes and socks... My internet search has failed to provide me with clues as to what others might wear to combat this... Specifically, what clothing (if any) is resistant to the spears? I realize full leather hiking boots and gaiters will defend the lower quarter.

I'm from the Townsville area, I just don't pay attention to it

Yes it sucks when you find it, especially when bedding down for the night, but I prefer being cool than protected. I've had spear grass go through boots, SES uniforms, army uniform, my everyday hiking clothes, yet to find something that stops it

Canvas gaiters will slow them down but you will still get a few. The gaiters at least mean the sock line is mostly free.

As for the rest of clothing, the tight, fine woven nylon will slow them a bit too. You must have been in a really bad area - most walks I get very few (always wear gaiters). Probably also peak time of year right now.

Yes, sock protectors or gaiters work well for socks and laces.
I find that quick dry material like that of board shorts or some hiking long sleeve shirts work very well.

Unfortunately there are some things nature still holds the upper hand. It designed these spears to stick in the soft furry bits of passing animals and while we insists on wearing cloth or textiles on our bodies they will fulfil their function.