Firefighters are some of the most important people in our communities. They put their lives on the line for all of us, day in and day out. So it’s no surprise that many firefighters find themselves needing to buy new boots every few months because they quickly wear down due to water, chemicals, or fire-retardant chemicals.
But what if there was a way for them to have durable boots that would last longer? This blog post discusses how work boots can help protect these brave individuals from injuries sustained by wearing down their shoes too fast – with links to purchase available at the end! Which boot is best? We’ll be discussing options along with pros and cons so you can make an educated decision when purchasing your own work boots!
Table of Contents
Things to Consider Before buying work boots for firefighters
- Consider the type of work you will be doing
- Know your size and width before ordering
- Decide on a style – lace-up or slip-on boots
- Know what to look for in quality work boots, such as waterproofing and insulation
- Consider the safety features of different brands
- Get recommendations from friends who are firefighters about their favorite brands
Benefits of Work boots for firefighters
- Protect your feet from sparks, heat, and falling objects
- Protects the soles of your shoes from damage caused by water or oil
- Keep you dry when working in wet conditions
- Provide protection for toes, ankles, and heels to prevent injury
- Maintain foot comfort levels with work boots that are designed specifically for firefighters’ needs
- Wear out less quickly than other types of footwear because they’re made to withstand wear-and-tear on a daily basis
Disadvantages of work boots for firefighters
- Firefighters are required to wear work boots for their safety
- Work boots can be uncomfortable and restrict movement
- Work boots may not be appropriate in certain situations, such as when firefighters need to do rescue or search and rescue
- A firefighter’s work boots may get dirty or wet easily which could lead to infection if the boot is worn too long
- The cost of a new pair of work boots every few months can add up over time
- There are many other types of footwear that have special features for firefighters that they should consider before buying a pair of expensive work boots
Why are work boots important for firefighters?
Work boots are important for firefighters because they provide protection from heat and flames. They also have a nonslip sole to help firefighters maintain their footing when walking on wet or slippery surfaces. Additionally, work boots protect firefighters from potential injuries, such as falling debris or sharp objects.
Best Work Boots for Firefighters
Thorogood GEN-Flex2 8 Tactical Boots
Looking for the perfect work boots for firefighters? Look no further than Thorogood’s GEN-Flex2 8 Tactical Boots! Made with black leather and a side zipper, these boots are perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. They’re also tough enough to handle the toughest jobs, making them the ideal choice for firefighters.
Thorogood GEN-Flex2 8 Tactical Boots are perfect for firefighters. They’re tough and durable, with a side-zip design that makes them easy to put on and take off. Plus, the black leather finish gives them a professional look.
The Thorogood GEN-Flex2 8 Tactical Boot is perfect for those in law enforcement, emergency medical services, and the firefighting field. It features a side zipper for easy on and off, as well as black leather to make you look professional and polished. It’s also slip resistant and meets ASTM safety standards. The only downside is that this boot runs a bit small, so be sure to order half a size larger than your usual size.
Pros:
It features a side zipper for easy on and off
Made with black leather and a side zipper
They’re also tough enough to handle the toughest jobs
Cons:
The only downside is that this boot runs a bit small, so be sure to order half a size larger than your usual size
Ad Tec Men’s Boots for firefighters
As a firefighter, you know that your work is always dangerous. You need boots that will protect your feet and give you the traction and stability you need to stay safe. The Ad Tec Men’s 9 in Fireman Logger Full Grain Oiled Leather Certified Work Boot is perfect for the job.
These boots are made of tough full grain leather and have a non-slip rubber sole that will help you keep your footing on any surface. They’re also certified to be fire resistant, so you can rest assured knowing that your feet are protected even in the most dangerous situations.
This boot is made with full grain oiled leather and a long lasting rubber sole, making it perfect for firefighters or anyone who needs a reliable and durable boot. The non slip traction control ensures that you will stay safe on your feet, while the fire resistant footwear keeps you protected from potential hazards.
Engineered with a tough, full grain oiled leather upper and a long lasting rubber sole, these boots are perfect for the job site. They’re also non slip and have traction control, making them safe and reliable.
Plus, the Ad Tec Fireman Logger is designed to be comfortable and supportive all day long. So if you’re looking for an excellent pair of boots that will keep you safe on the job, look no further than the Ad Tec Men’s 9 in Fireman Logger Full Grain Oiled Leather Certified Work Boot!
Key features:
- Tough, full grain oiled leather upper
- Long lasting rubber sole
- Non slip and traction control
- Comfortable and supportive
Danner Men’s 18050 Wildland Tactical Firefighter 8 Fire and Safety Boot
Looking for the perfect work boots for firefighters? Look no further than the Danner Men’s 18050 Wildland Tactical Firefighter 8 Boot. This boot was designed specifically with firefighters in mind, and comes with a variety of features that make it ideal for the job.
The pros of this boot include its durable construction, which makes it resistant to wear and tear; its waterproof build, which keeps your feet safe and dry even in wet weather; and its slip-resistant sole, which prevents you from slipping on slick surfaces. Additionally, this boot is also comfortable to wear, thanks to its cushioned insole and ankle support.
These boots are built to last, with a full-grain leather upper and Vibram® outsole that will keep you safe and comfortable on the job. They also feature lightweight support and breathability to keep your feet cool and dry all day long.
And thanks to their lace-up design, these boots can be easily adjusted to fit your individual needs. So if you’re looking for an edge over the competition, make sure to grab a pair of these Wildland Tactical Firefighters Boots today.
This tough, resilient boot is perfect for firefighters who need a durable and dependable option when it comes to footwear. It features an ASTM-rated steel toe and electrical hazard protection, so you know your feet will be safe when dealing with hazardous materials. The Vibram® FIRETORC™ outsole provides superior traction and slip resistance in all weather conditions, while the breathable GORE-TEX® lining ensures your feet stay dry even when things get heated.
Pros:
- It features an ASTM-rated steel toe and electrical hazard protection
- The Vibram® FIRETORC™ outsole provides superior traction and slip resistance in all weather conditions
- Is also comfortable to wear
Cons:
Too tall
Under Armour Men’s Stellar TacSafety Boot
This military-inspired tactical boot is tough enough to handle any emergency situation, while still providing all the comfort and support you need when on your feet all day.
Featuring a side zip closure for easy on and off, these boots are also waterproof and breathable to keep your feet dry even in the most extreme conditions. So if you’re looking for a safe, comfortable, and durable option, the Under Armour Stellar Tac is definitely worth considering.
This tough guy of a boot has been engineered to withstand even the most intense environments and is perfect for firefighters, law enforcement officers, or anyone who needs an uncompromisingly tough boot. It features full-grain leather and textile construction as well as a side zip for ease of on and off.
They have a tough exoskeleton design that provides superior protection against punctures and abrasions. The side zip allows you to quickly put them on and take them off when needed. Plus, the boots are lightweight and comfortable, allowing you to stay safe and comfortable all day long.
PROS:
-Tough exoskeleton design offers superior protection against punctures and abrasions
-Side zip allows for quick on/off
-Lightweight and comfortable
CONS:
A little heavy
Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Waterproof Military and Tactical Boot
Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Waterproof Military and Tactical Boot, Black. These boots are the best in class for firefighters. They have a tough construction and are waterproof to keep your feet dry in all conditions. However, they can be a bit stiff at first and may take some time to break in.
eck out the Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Waterproof Military and Tactical Boot. These bad boys are built for firefighters and anyone who needs a sturdy, dependable boot.
They’re made with waterproof construction and a high-grip rubber sole, so you can stay safe and dry no matter what the job throws your way. Plus, they have a convenient side zip closure for easy on and off.
So if you’re looking for a versatile work boot that can handle any challenge, the Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Waterproof Military and Tactical Boot is the perfect choice.
Thorogood Men’s 804-6134 6 Quick Release Station Safety Toe
Do you work in a dangerous field? Do you need a sturdy and reliable boot to protect your feet? Look no further than the Thorogood Men’s 804-6134 6 Quick Release Station Safety Toe.
These boots are designed specifically for firefighters, with a translucent bottom that makes it easy to see any obstacles in your path. The quick release station safety toe allows you to easily remove your boots when they’re wet or muddy, so you can avoid bringing them inside and tracking dirt all over the place. Plus, the slip-resistant sole ensures that you’ll stay safe on your feet even in slippery conditions.
These boots are perfect for firefighters or anyone who needs a reliable and safe pair of shoes. The quick release station allows you to take your boots off quickly in an emergency, and the translucent bottom makes it easy to see where you’re going.
However, some people have complained that the boots are a bit too stiff and difficult to break in. So, if you’re looking for something comfortable, these might not be the best choice for you.
Men’s 804-6134 6 Quick Release Station Safety Toe with Translucent Bottom Boot. These durable boots are designed to protect your feet from flames and other hazards while you’re on the job. Plus, the translucent bottom makes it easy to see where you’re going, even in dark or smoky conditions.
But don’t take our word for it. Here are some of the pros and cons of this product:
PROS:
– Durable construction that can withstand extreme conditions
– Protects your feet from flames and other hazards
– Translucent bottom makes it easy to see where you’re going
CONS:
La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Mountaineering Boot
La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Mountaineering Boot is the perfect choice for firefighters who want a boot that is tough, durable and comfortable.
These boots are built to withstand the most extreme conditions and offer superior ankle support. They are also lightweight and easy to wear, making them ideal for those long days on the job.
Some firefighters may find that these boots run a bit small, so it is important to order them in your normal size. Overall, the La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Mountaineering Boot is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable pair of work boots.
La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Mountaineering Boot is the perfect work boots for firefighters. It is made of natural leather and has a Vibram Morflex sole that makes it durable and flexible.
The boots are also lightweight, making them easy to wear for long periods of time. Plus, they feature a waterproof and breathable lining that helps keep your feet dry and comfortable.
The Glacier WLF is a Wildland Firefighting Boot that is specifically designed to meet the needs of firefighters. It has been enhanced with features that make it better suited for fighting fires, including a Vibram® Morflex sole which gives you greater traction and stability on uneven terrain.
It also features an aggressive lug pattern which provides superior grip in wet and icy conditions.
However, these enhancements do come with a downside; The Glacier WLF is not as comfortable as La Sportiva’s other boots, and it can be heavy and bulky.
PROS:
- Vibram® Morflex sole
- These boots are built to withstand the most extreme conditions
- It also features an aggressive lug pattern which provides superior grip in wet and icy conditions
CONS:
The Glacier WLF is not as comfortable as La Sportiva’s other boots
NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical Work Boots
Made with full-grain leather and a sturdy side zipper, these boots are perfect for firefighters, construction workers, or anyone who needs a reliable pair of boots they can rely on.
Plus, the non-slip rubber outsole ensures stability and safety in all conditions. So if you’re looking for an unbeatable work boot, look no further than NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical Work Boots.
Made with premium leather and featuring a side zipper for easy on and off, these boots are perfect for firefighters or anyone who needs to brave the great outdoors. However, they’re also comfortable enough for everyday wear. So whether you’re out fighting fires or just running errands, the NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical Work Boot is up to the task.
The tough leather and rugged construction make these boots practically invincible, while the side zipper ensures easy on and off. With a versatile design that can be worn for work or play, NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical Work Boots are a must-have addition to your arsenal.
PROS:
-Tough leather and construction make these boots practically invincible
-Side zipper makes them easy to put on and take off
-Versatile design can be worn for work or play
CONS:
-May be too heavy for some people
-Zipper may not hold up over time
Thorogood 804-4440 Men’s Boots for Firefighters
It features a composite safety toe, insulation, and waterproofing, making it ideal for any firefighter. It also has a side zip for easy on and off. However, like all things in life, this boot has its pros and cons. Read on to learn more about them!
The Thorogood 804-4440 Men’s Gen-flex2 8 Insulated Waterproof Composite Safety Toe Boot is an excellent choice for firefighters looking for a safe and sturdy boot. The composite safety toe provides protection from potential hazards.
They’re perfect for firefighters, as they are both insulated and waterproof. Plus, the composite safety toe offers protection against nails, screws, and other sharp objects.
However, these boots also come with some downsides. For one, they can be a bit stiff until you break them in. Additionally, they tend to run a little large, so you might want to order a size smaller than usual. But overall, these are an excellent choice for anyone looking for tough and reliable work boots.
These bad boys are perfect for firefighters, as they are both waterproof and insulated. Plus, the composite safety toe will help keep your toes protected in even the most dangerous situations. But don’t just take our word for it – read the pros and cons below to see what other people are saying about these boots.
Pros:
The composite safety toe provides protection from potential hazards
These bad boys are perfect for firefighters, as they are both waterproof and insulated.
Plus, the composite safety toe offers protection against nails, screws, and other sharp objects
Cons:
A little too big
Thorogood Infinity FD Series 6 Waterproof Composite Safety Toe Work Boots
Looking for the perfect work boots for your firefighter career? Look no further than the Thorogood Infinity FD Series 6 Waterproof Composite Safety Toe Work Boots! Made with premium full-grain leather and a moisture-wicking liner, these boots are not only durable but also comfortable.
The slip-resistant flex-drive outsole ensures that you can keep your footing even in slippery conditions. And with a composite safety toe, you know your feet will be protected against potential injuries.
So if you’re looking for a reliable pair of work boots that won’t let you down, look no further than the Thorogood Infinity FD Series 6 Waterproof Composite Safety Toe Work Boots.
Thorogood Infinity FD Series 6 Waterproof Composite Safety Toe Work Boots are some of the best work boots for firefighters. They’re made from premium full-grain leather and come with a moisture-wicking liner to keep your feet comfortable even when wet.
The slip-resistant flex-drive outsole ensures you’ll maintain your grip even on slippery surfaces, while the composite safety toe provides protection against impacts and compression injuries. Finally, the boots are also EH rated, meaning they meet the electrical hazard standard.
Pros:
– Made from premium full-grain leather
– Comes with a moisture-wicking liner
– Slip-resistant flex-drive outsole
– Composite safety toe protects against impacts and compression injuries
Cons:
– May run a bit small
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Pair of Firefighter Boots
If you’re looking for the best firefighter boots, this guide will take you through all of your options. From material to style, we’ll show you what to look for in the perfect pair. So whether you’re a rookie or veteran, it’s time to find your feet!
What to keep in mind when looking for firefighter boots
Firefighter boots don’t have to be made from the same material. In fact, this is a personal preference thing.
Some people might want them to be waterproof, while others prefer non-waterproof because they’re more breathable and won’t make your feet sweat.
You should also take into account whether or not you need a steel toe on your boots. If you’re going to wear these out on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to invest in a pair with a steel toe.
Also consider what type of sole you want—leather or rubber? Rubber soles are more durable and will probably last longer since they can get wet without ruining the shoe. But leather soles give you traction and are better for grip on surfaces like concrete.
What style do you want? You can find these in lace up or slip-on styles, although some might prefer laces over slip-ons because this helps keep the foot held in place better when wearing heavy gear.
So which one is right for you? Lace up if you’re looking for a tight fit that holds your foot firmly in place during strenuous tasks, or go with slip-ons if you want something lightweight and comfortable.
The different types of firefighter boots
Before you start shopping, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. There are many different styles of boots available.
Below, we’ll cover the four most common types of firefighter boots.
1. Leather or synthetic upper with leather or synthetic lining (leather is more expensive)
2. Fabric upper with leather or synthetic lining
3. Fabric upper with cotton lining
4. Composite toe boots (synthetic materials)
There are also three different boot heights: short, regular, and tall. Short boots are about 1-inch from the ground and usually go over the ankle, while tall boots go up to the calf. Regular height usually falls somewhere in between those two measurements and can be used as a substitute for any style boot as long as it fits correctly on your foot.
Material and comfort
You’ll find a wide range of materials and designs when it comes to firefighter boots.
What kind of material should you look for? Leather is a popular choice, but there’s also suede, canvas, and rubber. The best material will depend on what you’re looking for in your boots. If you need something waterproof, canvas or rubber might be best. If you want something breathable, go with suede or leather.
How are the boots going to feel? They should be comfortable enough so that they don’t rub or cause blisters while they protect your feet. You want the boots to have good arch support and give your feet an ample amount of room.
If you’re interested in ventilation, consider opting for shoes with vents on the side to help air circulate freely around your feet.
What about style? Be sure to find a pair that fits your personal taste! There are many styles available nowadays–including lace-up, zipper, velcro, and slip-ons–so there’s no excuse not to find something that appeals to you. Just make sure it goes well with your uniform!
Style and protection
Some boots are made for rough terrain and some are made for dry land. Some are designed for firefighting and others for construction. The best pair of boots is the one that matches your needs.
But before you decide which pair to buy, consider style and protection. You want to find a boot that will keep your feet protected when you’re in the field, but also look good in uniform. Make sure you know what’s most important to you when selecting your new boots.
When it comes to style, there are few options available: There are leather or synthetic uppers with either steel or composite toes, or all rubber bottoms which can be molded for comfort. It’s up to you to decide what kind of boot is best for you!
What type of protection do I need?
Firefighters need waterproof footwear that won’t melt when exposed to heat – no easy feat! Firefighting boots needs to withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit without melting or deforming. They also need to resist water degradation like chemicals like chlorine bleach (which is used in firefighting). So make sure they’re 100% waterproof and resistant!
Construction boots should provide enough grip on surfaces like cement, metal grating, gravel, dirt, mud
Safety
Safety is one of the most important aspects of any job. It’s why you wear a hard hat when there’s construction going on, and it’s why you put on gloves before you handle raw chicken. The same goes for firefighters: They need to be prepared for anything that could happen while they’re out on a call.
That’s where firefighter boots come in—they’re designed to protect your feet while you’re fighting fire and carrying heavy equipment.
So how can you find the best firefighter boots? You don’t want to go with the first pair of boots you find; there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for them:
-Choose footwear that will last: Firefighter boots should last longer than your average boot, so choose an option that’ll stand up against the wear-and-tear that comes with this type of work.
-Consider style: Although firefighters primarily need to focus on safety, they still want their footwear to look good. So, if aesthetics are important, consider choosing a pair of shoes that will complement your uniform.
-Look at the construction: When choosing between two pairs of shoes, it may help to ask yourself which shoe would be better at protecting your foot from heat
Comfortability
The main purpose of a firefighter’s boots is to provide comfort and protection. When you choose a pair of boots, be sure that you feel comfortable in them.
When selecting the right pair of firefighting boots, it’s important to consider comfortability. Firefighters have to wear their boots for long periods of time, which can hurt their feet if they don’t fit well.
Overall, firefighters need to feel secure when they put on their boots. If you’re not comfortable in your boots, it will be difficult to move around and work efficiently.
While purchasing a new pair of shoes might only take 10 minutes, there’s more thought that goes into picking out the perfect boot—especially if you’re planning on wearing them for several hours at a time every day!
So, when considering comfortability:
-Foot bed: It needs to be cushioned and should cradle your feet like an eggshell does an egg
-Sole: The sole needs to not protrude or cut off circulation; this could lead to blackouts
-Shank: Reinforced shanks add stability and should be both rigid enough and flexible enough for movement
Style
There are two main styles of firefighter boots: lace-ups and slip-ons.
Lace-ups have a tight fit with an upper that fully encloses the foot, while the front section fastens with laces. Slip-ons do not tighten around the ankle like lace-ups, but instead, rest on top of the foot like many other types of shoes.
Both styles offer different advantages. For example, lace-ups are often more durable than slip-ons because they don’t need to be taken off when entering buildings or homes.
Lace-ups also tend to provide better ankle support than slip-ons because they wrap around your foot more securely. On the other hand, slip-ons are easier to take off and put on again quickly without needing to untie laces. And for some people, slip-ons can feel less restrictive than lace ups.
Conclusion
A good pair of firefighter boots can make all the difference in the world when it comes to protecting you and your coworkers in dangerous situations. But with so many different types of boots on the market, it can be difficult to find the perfect pair.
Luckily, this guide has all the information you need to make an informed decision. Just remember to keep your safety in mind when you’re looking for the right boots, and you’ll be good to go!
FAQs:
Do firefighters wear special boots?
Yes, firefighters wear special boots. The boots are designed to protect the feet and ankles from heat and flames, as well as from falling debris. They are also waterproof and slip-resistant.
Firefighters typically wear two types of boots: leather or rubber. Leather boots provide more durability and protection against high temperatures, but can be thicker and less flexible than rubber boots. Rubber boots are more flexible and lightweight, but may not be as durable as leather boots.
What do firefighters wear on their feet?
Typically firefighters wear boots with steel toes, knee high boots that protect them from falling objects and molten embers bouncing off nearby buildings – you know all that flaming crap fly everywhere?
Plus they must carry heavy things up stairs with only one hand because their other is always holding a hose at waist height keeping it extended for as long as possible to keep any fires within reach of water’s way.
Big, heavy boots made of leather or synthetics that withstand extreme high temperatures and allow the wearer to wade through deep water without sinking. It’s important for firefighters to be able to work closely with water so they need a sturdy waterproof boot.
A Vibram sole with good grip is also helpful in wet conditions because it doesn’t slip on surfaces as easily as a rubber soled ones would. The laces should be long enough to tie tightly around shoe size increasing stability but short enough so the foot stays tucked inside where it can reach all parts of hot surface from above or below.
What does NFPA certified boots mean?
Certified to the National Fire Protection Association Standards 20min
NFPA certified boots are boots that have met stringent testing requirements set by the National Fire Protection Association. These requirements include being tested in both high temperature fires for prolonged periods of time, and low temperature environments.
Shoes are tested inside a furnace with temperatures up to 2700 degrees Fahrenheit at 1500 degrees per minute for 15 minutes before they are cooled. They are also tested in freezing conditions below -60 degree Fahrenheit at 400 degrees per minute for 30 minutes before being thawed out.
If they meet these standards, the shoes carry an NFPA certification label on them and will say Certified to National Fire Protection Association Standard 20min (CSA Z195-99).
Why do firemen wear boots?
The boots help protect the feet against extremely high temperatures and also provide insulation against heat and cold. Additionally, the boots protect the feet from sharp objects and debris while walking through a burning building.
How should firefighter boots fit?
Firefighter boots should fit snugly, as they are meant to provide support and protection in dangerous situations. They should also be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. When trying on firefighter boots, make sure to wear the same type of socks you would normally wear in order to get a realistic idea of how they will feel. Boots that are too tight or too loose can be hazardous in a firefighting situation.
What are firefighter boots made of?
Firefighter boots are made of leather or synthetics to be water resistant, flame resistant, and tough enough for the hazards that wait inside. Some modern firefighter shoes are equipped with stainless steel toes for added protection.
The soles come with extra traction to help firefighters climb stairs or do complicated tasks like rescuing someone who’s fallen through ice or breaking windows in a smoke-filled building.
Finally, the uppers (the parts covering your ankles) are designed to keep your feet warm by trapping body heat in the wool lining while sparing you from coughing up black phlegm in front of company.
How do I know if my boots are fire rated?
A certified fire protective footwear product is recognized by a nationally recognized qualified testing laboratory to meet or exceed minimum standards of the ASTM F2413-11 standard for high-temperature impact protection from radiant heat.
An outstanding clue is if they have “W” on the shaft of the boot. The “W” symbol stands for “Waterproof.” This means that it has been treated to keep water out, and does not indicate that it would be a good choice to wear in a fire – but at least you won’t get wet! 😉 With boots, quality usually means more cost which means try on different brands of boots and find what feels most comfortable.
How long are firefighting boots good for?
Most good quality firefighting boots should last about 6 to 12 months.
The main things that will affect the lifespan of your firefighting boots are the amount of wear and tear they endure, and the type of materials used in their construction. Leather-based boots are generally more durable than other types of materials, but they also require more care and maintenance (e.g. regular polishings). If you take care of your boots, they should last longer; but if you’re someone who tends to be hard on their footwear, you may find that they only last for a few months.
Do fire boots expire?
: The best answer to this question is “yes.”
The chemicals inside fire boots are volatile and evaporate over time. They can also undergo possible chemical changes, so it’s very important to have new fire boots every now and then!
The material will weaken with time, making the boot less effective at protecting your feet from high heat. To extend the life of your boots as much as possible, avoid placing them in excessive heat or dragging them across rough surfaces. Clean out any soles that have come into contact with oil or tar before you put on a new pair!
How do you stretch out fire boots?
Fire boots are often made with a very stiff and inflexible leather. One way to stretch them out is to wear them around the house for a while. This will help loosen up the leather and make them more comfortable to wear.
Another way to stretch them out is to fill up a bathtub with warm water and then place the boots in the water. Let them soak for a while, then remove them and stretch them out as much as possible. Repeat this process several times until the boots are more flexible.
What are the requirements for wildland fire boots?
In order for boots to comply with the wildland fire firefighter standards, they must meet a number of general requirements. In addition to being made from “non-flammable” materials, they must have a waterproof upper and lower boot being resistant or impervious to heat, burning wood or other flammables while supporting 30 pounds per square inch during a vertical drop test.
If so desired, they can also be flame resistant and provide protection from heat exceeding 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Any rubber should be high flame retardant and provide resistance up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit for at least three hours.
- Black leather boots with toes and heels at least inches tall.
- Preferred materials are leather, canvas material, linen, or water repellent cloth.
- They should provide a minimum ankle height of inches in order to prevent the rope from rubbing on the inside of the leg while dragging it over trees and rocks when carrying equipment down from a fire line.
- Boots can be two tone but not one tone with three colors – sole, heel parts and uppers must all be different colors or shades in combination where color contrast is clearly visible.
Preventing this type of damage to your boots will help them last longer because black will wear off of your boots quicker than darker colors that still leave color.
How should wildland fire boots fit?
The boots should fit snugly, but not too tightly. They should also be high enough to protect the calf from heat and sparks.
It’s important to make sure that your boots fit properly so that you can safely perform your job duties. Boots that are too tight will constrict your movement and could lead to sprains or ankle injuries. Boots that are too loose may come off when you’re climbing a ladder or crawling through a tunnel. Make sure to try on several pairs of boots before making a purchase so that you can find the pair that fits best.
