“Dedicated to the men and women firefighters all around the world. Your courage, bravery, and commitment to saving the lives of our families near and far shall never be forgotten. We shall remain eternally grateful.”
Firefighters have one of the most dangerous and risky jobs in the world. They face exposure to superheated gases and toxic fumes in their work.
From raging forest fires to burning buildings, firefighters go to the extreme in protecting the lives of the people they serve. Even when fires are scorching, going up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
At risk for injuries from falling debris and possible building collapse, to loss of traction from climbing ladders and slippery surfaces, firefighters lay their lives on the line to save others.
And even without the above dangers, poor foot protection with a rapid increase in body heat can lead to loss of bodily fluids, means an accident.
With all these risks, firefighters need specialized equipment for proper safety and protection. Helmets, masks, special heat-resistant clothing, and boots are a part of their protective gear.
In particular, boots are an important gear that protects the firefighter’s feet, ankles, and lower legs from injury. Specialized lightweight fire boot enhances the security for better traction and mobility.
They protect feet from flaming and sharp debris and keep feet comfortable. Boots for fighting fires vary significantly in quality. Professional firefighters demand the best boot for safety and comfort.
Facing forest fires or three-alarm blazes, firefighters need boots that protect on every call.
Among all the boots we reviewed here, Danner Men’s Wildland Tactical Firefighter Boot outshines most of its competitors. Designed for firefighters, these boots have proven to offer superior protection for those who have made it their duty to fight fires.
Best Wildland Firefighting Boots
It is the intent of this product review to focus on the 10 best-rated wildland fire boots for 2020. Through hours of research and comparisons, these boots outweigh any similar or competing styles.
Not on wildland duty? Perhaps you recently moved to the city firefighter unit? Check out these highly recommend station boots for city firefighters.
1. Danner Men’s Wildland Tactical Firefighter Work Boot
The NFPA-certified Danner wildland fire boots rank at the top position in our top seven firefighting boots review.
It is without a doubt, the best smokejumper wildland firefighting boots on the market today.
It has a fire-resistant outer leather exterior with a comfortable inner mesh lining.
Durable Vibram outsole is designed for slip-resistant traction over rough land.
The boot’s reinforced stitch construction provides superior comfort from upper to the outer sole.
Specialized heel shape locks the heel in place for a better overall fit. There is also more room in the toe area with less pinching or binding.
This Danner boot is lightweight but has the additional supportive benefits of an alpine hiker boot.
Interestingly, this pair of the boot also works well as daily work boots.
Remarkable pro features of Danner wildland tactical firefighting work boot:
Pros
- Athletic design
- Open-cell polyurethane Ortholite footbed
- Mountaineering inspired
- Superior strength and durability
- Breathable
This Danner fire boot is hugely popular with firefighter one of the top-selling product.
They are used in harsh conditions and need daily care after use. Proper cleaning makes boots last longer. Negative rankings on Amazon do not tell the entire story, yet a few drawbacks of the product by firefighters have indicated:
Cons
- Boots do not last
- Wore out in only four months
- Laces are cheap plastic
Made in the USA, the Danner Men’s Wildland Tactical Firefighter Work Boots made with craftsmanship.
Danner ranks high in quality and provides a supportive fit with less break-in period reported by firefighters when worn.
This rugged boot has excellent flexibility with strong ankle support. Crossover lacing is durable and remains tight all day.
It is also lightweight, weighing less than 4.5 pounds combined. Hikers and extreme outdoor enthusiasts remain impressed with the quality of these work boots.
It is the perfect boot for climbing over the rough, unforgiving land. It can be used every day, or when fighting fires, this boot remains the ideal fit second to none.
These boots are only as good as the person that is wearing them. The outer leather exterior requires cleaning daily with a suitable leather oil, and the leather exterior also requires sealing frequently.
Look no further than the superior quality of Danner boots. It is the best boots for you when it comes to firefighting. Look past the price, pick a pair of boots that meet all your needs.
2. White’s Boots Men’s 400VLTT Smoke Jumper Lace-To-Toe Boot
Designed for forest fire jumpers, the ten-inch height of these boots gives added ankle support without reducing mobility.
Vibram sole provides better traction on slippery forest surfaces. Lace-to-toe design gives these boots an aggressive appearance.
White’s Boots arch follows the contour of the foot to perfection.
This footwear uses full-grain, oil-tanned leather for long-lasting wear. It meets all clothing and equipment requirements for wildland firefighting.
Worn by some of the bravest firefighting professionals in the world, the boots are available in sizes ranging from 7 to 13, with custom orders accepted.
Hand-sewn welt construction is used with three rows of lock stitching. The features of these wildland boots on the market include:
Pros
- Padded collar
- Goodyear welt/stitch down sole construction
- Brass hooks and eyelets
- Water-resistant
- Superior comfort and protection.
The White’s Boots Men’s 400VLTT Smoke Jumper is the best wildland boots for front-line firefighting.
Proudly made in the USA by skilled craftsmen and women, it provides firefighters with the mobility and safety needed facing raging fires.
Negative reviews are limited and focus mainly on one aspect:
Cons
- Poor shipping; which should not be a big deal
The protection of the feet is critical in this kind of job. Many firefighters are injured annually due to faulty boots.
Falls and slips remain the leading cause of injuries to firefighters. Proper boots from White’s reduces this risk.
Hot glowing embers often retain heat up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, burning through the sole of a poor firefighting boot quickly.
Putting your life on the line fighting fires is severe enough. Don’t take chances of serious injury with poor, non-rated boots.
When you jump or walk into a burning building or forest, your feet will feel the intense heat of the fire first. Poor quality, non-rated boots will raise your body heat quickly.
The White’s 400VLTT firefighting boots protect the feet from overheating.
Firefighting requires a high level of focus. If you can’t focus because you feel the heat through your feet, you run the risk of getting injured.
Thus, boots are essential for survival in a raging fire.
White’s 400VLTT firefighting boots are expensive, In fact, most costly price tag but worth of every penny you spend on it.
The company has a proven track record already of protecting the lives of firefighters for years. When you put your life on the line to save others, you deserve the best possible means of protection.
3. SCARPA Fuego Wildland Fire Boot
Imported from Italy, the Scarpa Fuego Mountaineering boots designed to perfection. Highly rated as the best boots for climbing and hiking in the lists.
A multi-generational family owned business since 1938; this is the best performing boots for mountaineering, trail-running, and other outdoor adventures.
It is a no-frills boot that does the job of protecting your feet.
The boot has a striking bronze color with a leather exterior. The double tongue provides excellent fit and comfort.
Rugged leather uppers take on the roughest trail hikes. It has the ideal tall cuff for firefighters and wildland firefighters. Vibram sole also provides superior gripping on all surfaces.
The Scarpa Fuego Mountaineering boots recommended for firefighting, hiking, or mountaineering use.
Known for superior wear, it also has the following features:
Pros
- Over-the-ankle height
- Lace up closure
- Leather uppers
- Nylon lining for ventilation
- EVA midsole
The Scarpa Fuego mountaineering boots are NFPA approved and also great for hiking, climbing, or trail riding.
It has a lower overall height with no rubber to burn off when firefighting. Negative customer feedback from the over 50 consumer reviews are based on one flaw:
Cons
- Shanks crack
The manufacturer of the Scarpa Fuego boot is already aware of the noted defect. They have increased the thickness to the shank to avoid cracking.
The Scarpa mountaineering boots are favorite to outdoor enthusiasts. It is perfect for people who enjoy skiing. Warm, comfortable fit provides flexibility down steep, covered slopes. Aside from outdoor activities, it is equally suited as well for heavy work.
The rugged exterior provides support and protection from hidden hazards. Gusseted tongue provides strength, freedom of movement, and comfort.
The fully padded, thick collar prevents pinching and rubbing. It is a “blue-collar” boots for work or pleasure.
Cross lacing keeps laces tight. Half lacing allows for easy on/off.
Competitively priced when compared to similar models.
From firefighting, work to hiking, Scarpa mountaineering boots have covered it all entirely. You can have three uses for the price of one boot.
Ranked third in our best wildland firefighting boots review, this pair is a good deal.
It was launched on Amazon in 2012 with growing sales every year. Attractive in design and style, these boots perform well under extreme conditions, from hiking to firefighting.
It is a great pair of the boot for anyone planning for long outdoor adventure. An ideal boot for anyone seeking quality from a company known for excellence.
Experience the best all-purpose boots for yourself. Results will be rewarding and satisfying.
4. Adtec Men’s 1964 10” Fireman Logger Black Work Boot
Adtec produces a long line of high-quality footwear. Their design and distribution of boots for firefighters brought forth a new era for the company.
Produced in 1964, the creative styling of this new line of boots provides superior comfort. Style #1964 is a 10” wildland firefighting boot also used as logger boots.
Having one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, loggers appreciated the superior quality of the #1964 boots.
Durable leather construction is perfect for wet/muddy conditions. You can clean easily with a damp cloth.
Renowned for high-quality footwear, all Adtec boots inspected before shipping. Adtec strives for no-tolerance zero defect policy.
The other features of the Adtec Men’s #1964 10” Fireman Loggers Work Boot include:
Pros
- Padded insole with good arch support
- Steel hooks with solid brass lace eyelets
- Fire resistant laces
- Goodyear welt/triple stitching
- No break-in period required
The 10” shaft height keeps ankles in place with limited side movement. One-piece lug sole for increased wear in all environments.
Adtec Men’s 1964 10” Fireman Logger Work Boots are cheap wildland firefighting boots with a higher degree of quality.
Ordering correct sizing appears to be an issue. Other consumers report:
- Not a fire boot
- Boots made for children with small feet
- Order one size larger for a good fit
Sizing is the responsibility of the consumer. Check the sizing charts accurately before ordering.
It is one of the cheap wildland fire boots on marketplace, but can tolerate up to 500-degree heat resistance.
Price is not a factor to be taken into consideration when purchasing boots that can save your life.
When looking for boots, look for quality and a track record. Actual use in wildland firefighting situations often tells the complete story.
The Adtec 1964 fireman logger boot continues to receive positive reviews.
Firefighters and loggers depend on adequate footwear protection.
Consumers of Adtec’s #1964 10” fireman logger work boots have become repeat customers.
Adtec remains a premier supplier of boots for firefighters.
Dedicated to superiority at a very affordable price, Adtec is poised to start a competitive fire that will be hard to extinguish.
5. La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Boot
La Sportiva is a made in Italy boots. It is an excellent pair of boots for firefighters and avid backpackers.
Lightweight compared to other similar boots for firefighters, its synthetic sole provides adequate comfort levels.
Vibram ice sole provides excellent traction crossing muddy and rocky terrain.
It is a stylish popular boot for forestry, BLM, and hotshot crews.
Wildland firefighters rely on La Sportiva boots for high ankle stability without restricting movement.
Firefighters walk miles to reach a stronghold position fighting fires.
When you need to cross tough terrain, La Sportiva boots provide the comfort and traction to reach a designated starting point safely.
It also provides heat resistance of temperatures up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit. Other features include:
Pros
- Half steel shank for protection from sharp objects
- Meets all Federal Standards for wildland firefighters
- Durable soles with heat resistance up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit
- Meets ISO 20344 standards for protective wildland firefighting footwear
- Lightweight, less than three pounds combined
The boot has mixed reviews on Amazon. The low number of reviews on the La Sportiva Men’s Glacier WLF hiking boot is insufficient to arrive at either a negative or positive decision.
Cons
- Boots did not last more than six months
- Do not hold-up in firefighting conditions
- Glued outersole separates from steel shank in high heat conditions.
The La Sportiva is a multi-purpose use boot.
It is excellent for firefighting, EMS, hiking, or electrical lineman boot.
However, based on the information gathered, La Sportiva is not a front-line firefighting boot. It provides superior comfort for hiking and trail discovery, though.
It would appear that these boots lack the durability required to consider as one of the best wildland firefighting boots.
The priced below other competing styles, the La Sportiva glacier hiking boot is an excellent fit for outdoor adventures.
High stability and a non-slip outsole provide really good traction on glaciers and rugged mountain trails.
Introduced on Amazon in July 2011, the La Sportiva glacier hiking boots remain a popular choice for hiking enthusiasts.
It is the premier leader in the production of high-quality hiking boots. It is rated for wildland firefighting but not recommended.
Issues with outsole separation appear to be an on-going concern. Cross-fed laces remain tight all day.
It is highly recommended as a work boot for construction, steelworkers, or any employment position outdoors.
The intended use of the La Sportiva men’s glacier WLF hiking boot remains the choice of the individual consumer based on need.
6. White’s Boots Men’s 400V Smoke Jumper Boot
White Men’s Smokejumpers are a unique breed unto their own. They are frontline firefighters, first to establish boundaries.
When hovering thousands of feet above a burning inferno, smokejumpers need reliable boots to absorb the initial impact of landing in a burning forest.
The White’s Men’s 400V Smoke Jumper boots fit this need perfectly.
The boot’s ten-inch height provides superior ankle support with increased shock absorption.
It also meets and exceeds NFPA requirements for wildland firefighting equipment.
Black Vibram lugs provide sure footing in deplorable conditions.
Flexible and comfortable, these rugged wildland firefighting boots endure.
This boot is rated as the best leather boots for firefighters, these no-nonsense boots include:
Pros
- Padded collar
- Aggressive tread pattern
- Goodyear welt/stitch down
- Heat and water resistant
- Puncture resistant
Proudly made in the USA by skilled craftsmen and women, White’s patented arch design provides complete arch support.
Its hand-sewn stitching has true craftsmanship quality.
It is lightweight, as well, weighing less than two pounds combined to deliver comfort all day.
Minimal negative reviews advise:
Cons
- Boot sizes tend to run large
The boot’s full-grain leather exterior allows for movement and flexibility. These leather boots are repairable for extended use.
Lace in tongue keeps debris out. The strong leather laces keep laces tight and provide foot support.
Premium full grain oil tanned leather exterior offers comfort and freedom for fast movement when needed.
White’s remains trusted for high-quality, durable boots. Chosen by wildland firefighters for years, White’s 400V Smoke Jumper boots excel from the competition.
First-in, last-out, smokejumpers remain on site for days and need boots that endure. Indeed, wearing the best boots for firefighters is important when one is a smokejumper.
Emphasis placed on comfort and protection, White’s Men’s 400V Smoke Jumper boots affords these brave souls a moment of peace.
This White’s boot is part of a long and growing line of best-constructed boots on the market today.
The price is equal to or slightly above other similar styles, White’s SmokeJumper boots are worth every dollar spent and more.
Disappearing natural resources during fires are a major concern, so smokejumpers perform a vital role in fighting to protect the natural beauty of all wildlands.
Through dedication and a strong-willed determination, smokejumpers deserve the recognition earned in fighting raging forest fires for us all.
7. Thorogood Men’s 10” Wildland Fire Boots
American-made by a company with a long, outstanding reputation for high-quality boots, the Thorogood Men’s 10” Wildland Fire Boots is a single-piece composition.
Goodyear welt construction for tight seams, flame- and cut-resistant with removable kiltie, removable felt soles for comfort in all weather conditions are just a few of the many features this boot has.
Dri-lex tongue with moisture wicking keeps feet dryer.
Composite Vibram heat-resistant sole shank provides superior stability and ankle support.
Flexible outer leather exterior promotes mobility and comfort.
This boot meets all NFPA protective equipment standards for wildland firefighters and designed for the extreme conditions that all wildland firefighters face.
The Thorogood Wildland Fire Boots are puncture-resistant since cuts and punctures to the feet are a common injury for firefighters.
Its deep cross tread pattern allows more excellent traction climbing large debris-filled hills. Specialized construction of these Thorogood fire boots include:
Pros
- 90-degree heel
- Abrasion resistant
- Slip resistant
- Goodyear welt/stitch down
- Inexpensive when compared to other similar styles
The Thorogood Men’s 10” Wildland Fire Boots remain a favorite of all wildland firefighters.
Its 10” height wraps feet in extreme comfort. When walking long distances, these Thorogood boots keep feet comfortable with no burning of soles or aching arches.
Some reported issues with the Thorogood wildland fire boots include:
Cons
- Boots require an extended break-in period
- Boots are uncomfortable around the laces
- Boots appear to be heavy
Twelve pairs of fasteners keep laces tight throughout the day. The extra depth of Vibram rubber heel keeps feet well-aligned and in place. With more room in the toe area reduces pinching.
Boots are sometimes used in twenty below zero temperatures although not recommended. These boots are non-insulated.
Wildland firefighters require specialized equipment. Battling all raging fires is dangerous enough without having to worry about failing equipment. When faced with falling debris and windblown heat, for example, wildland firefighters must be able to move quickly and efficiently.
The greater ankle support provides a higher degree of flexibility. Somewhat heavy, these boots still allow rapid movement with changing winds. These durable boots keep feet sweat-free and active when clearing front line fire breaks.
Large firefighting machinery operation is not a problem wearing these boots. Climbing ladders or trees isn’t a problem as well, as these boots provide support for such activities at all times.
One of the most affordable boots for firefighters on the market today, it is backed by a 100 percent money-back guarantee.
Indeed, when it comes to boots, Thorogood is a name to remember.
Speaking of Thorogood boots, check out more details of Thorogood boots review in-depth!
8. Haix Missoula Hiking/Wildland Boot
Fighting wildland fires is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. With temperatures reaching heat degrees to unsurmountable levels, wearing the protective footwear that is designed to combat the most extreme conditions is mandatory.
Heat resistant up to 573-degree Fahrenheit, Haix specialized wildland firefighting boots offer a nitrile rubber sole with a stable non-slipping sole for better traction when climbing uneven terrain. Treads and laces are flames resistant for added protection.
The breathable inner liner keeps feet cooler when walking on burning embers with specialized climate system for removal of heated air while bringing in cooler, drier air through the vent holes at the top of these boots.
Pros
- Lightweight relieving leg fatigue on longer shifts
- Thick, European leather with minimal seaming for higher durability
- Two zone lacing for the ability to adjust to a tailored fit
- Vibram rubber outsole for protection from penetrations and extreme heat
- Secura Liner stays in place and will not pull out or wrinkle
Non-heat transferring composite midsole offers perfect side stabilization while climbing steep terrain and over down trees. Specially designed heel grip provides superior footholds while climbing and clearing brush for fire breaks.
Cons
- Hard to keep clean and shows abrasions easily
- Eight-inch height does not offer enough support on long up-hill climbs
- The tongue tends to slide from side to side.
These boots are not cheap, but what price are you willing to pay to save the life of a friend, husband, or father? Look for other options in the best wildland firefighting boots by scrolling down.
9. Lowa GTX Hiking/Wildland Firefighting Boot
Staying in control when battling blazing infernos is a matter of life or death. Lowa premiere wildland firefighting boots are made to take on all that Mother Nature can present. As a standard height boot, these boots were designed initially for hikers by hikers.
Derby-cut lacing gives wider feet a more comfortable fit. Bi-injection midsole allows for greater stability when climbing or descending steep inclines. Water-repellent Nubuck leather upper is durable with Cordura® ankle band for additional ankle lateral support.
GORE-TEX lining for ultimate climate protection, regardless of present weather conditions, with additional waterproofing protection. Vibram® Vialta outsole offers improved gripping on a variety of surfaces with increased shock absorption.
Pros
- Full-length nylon shank for extra stability on steep terrain
- Derby style lacing for a personalized, customized fit
- Breathable GTX midfoot controls foot temperatures
- LL design with buttery-soft glove leather lining
- Two-inch heel height for better foot support
Featuring a moisture-wicking footbed and full-length nylon shank, these all-terrain boots support your feet when carrying packs up to 25 pounds. Monowrap midsole technology reduces overall boot weight for the insertion of extra comforting padding and lateral stability.
Cons
- Poor durability lasting less than a year under normal conditions
- Soles of boot tend to wear out very fast
- Expensive
Rugged, thick Vibram outsole with non-slip rubber lugs digs deep into any forest surface dry or wet, keeping you in balance will added fall protection.
Not firefighting boots, you are looking for? Perhaps the next wildland firefighting boot is for you!
10. Wesco Men’s Firestormer Logger Boots
If fighting wildland fires is your profession, then you will want to be wearing one of the best wildland firefighting boots available anywhere. Currently worn by smokejumpers and firefighters around the world, these boots are the top of the line in firefighting footwear.
Overall ten-inch height is supportive and protective with more fire-resistant features found when compared to any other wildland firefighting boot. Black Fire and water-resistant with lace-to-toe provide a fit that is adjustable to accommodate any foot, from small, to narrow and wide.
Seven- ounce fire and water-resistant uppers repel heat and water, keeping your feet dry and supportive regardless of conditions. Lightweight black no-burn Technora upper stitching is specially designed for those that continue to battle out of control wildland fires.
Pros
- Rolled leather top facing keeps debris and dirt out of boots
- Solid brass studs and eyelets for years of dependable wear
- Permanently formed Stytherm counter for better heat control
- Hard toe for protection of falling tree limbs and rocks
- Sweat-resistant full-leather insole keeps feet dry and comfortable
Heavy black Kevlar uppers with Vibram flame-resistant, non-slip, marking oil resistant sole provides for sure footing on all slippery surfaces. Shipped complete with rugged, fire-proof black laces and removable false tongue for additional comfort makes these boots one of the best.
Cons
- Expensive, costing three to four times more than comparable boots
- Too many laces that take a long time to adjust and readjust
- Boots appear heavy after walking for longer distances
Shipped complete with rugged, fire-proof black laces and removable false tongue for additional comfort makes these boots one of the best. These boots may seem a little expensive, but don’t you deserve the best?
Best Firefighting Boots – Buyer’s Guide
NFPA Wildland Firefighting Boots Requirements: Do your Boots Meet the Standards?
Firefighting boots are different from regular work boots. Standards set by the NFPA, (National Fire Protection Agency) for boots are clear. Boots failing to meet certain standards are not permitted for firefighting. These standards set the protection for all workers fighting raging fires. The requirements for boots for firefighters include:
- Minimum of 8” height measured from the bottom of the heel to the top of the boot
- Lace-type exterior leather work boots with non-slip, melt-resistant Vibram soles
These features meet the NFPA standards for boots and are mandatory. A boot must be tall enough to support, cover, and protect the ankle and lower leg. Firefighting boots don’t have to be waterproof or made of leather.
NFPA requires boots used by firefighters to meet standards for punctures, cuts, and heat. Being flame-resistant is a good idea given the work. The NFPA must approve the makers of firefighting boots.. Suppliers must also submit samples for testing.
An annual fee for this service is commonplace. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) has a strict guideline for firefighter boots. You must understand all government restrictions prior to purchasing a pair of boots for firefighting so you can save time and money and make sure to have enough protection for your feet when you’re at work.
The NFPA 1977-certified firefighting boots must include FR (fire-resistant) materials. It is wise to check for the NFPA label on the interior of the boots prior to purchasing. Cheap boots look like real firefighting boots but don’t provide as much protection.
Cheap boots, for example, may fall apart when exposed to high heat levels. It is never a good idea to buy boots based on price. Fake leather boots may break down in extreme heat conditions and lead to severe burns on your feet.
You only have two feet so, protect them. Experienced firefighters do not take chances. Cheap firefighting boots is an invitation to a disaster with life-changing injuries, and you know Firefighting is not child’s play. Treat fire with respect at all times by being equipped properly.
Things You Can’t Ignore While Buying Firefighting Boots:
Safety Features: Firefighters are on their feet for hours. Safety is a major concern when it comes to this job. Firefighters need proper safety equipment in order to fight intense fires.
All fires reach very high heat levels in minutes, and only authentic firefighting boots can protect the feet. As such, these boots remain one of the most important pieces of firefighting equipment.
Firefighting boots must be able to adequately protect the feet walking on burning embers. Wearing boots not rated by the NFPA increases the dangers that are present.
Your boots must withstand extreme temperatures and life-threatening conditions. These boots are one of the most important safety features that must not be taken for granted.
Durability and Heat Resistance: Firefighters fight fires from rocky mountain terrains and hillsides to collapsing buildings. Life-threatening dangers are ever-present. Your boots must be able to withstand these harsh conditions. Boots that don’t provide high heat resistance increase the overall danger level ten-fold.
Rugged and dependable boots offer stability and mobility. Many firefighters suffer injuries wearing inadequate boots, resulting in severe burns to the feet. Don’t compromise on toughness and heat-resistant properties when selecting a pair of boots. The boots in this review are tough, durable, and heat-resistant. They could save your life when you are out fighting fires.
Support: Climbing steep hills and fighting forest fires requires boots that support the ankle. Forest terrain is dangerous, requiring increased mobility. Battling three-alarm fires in buildings, firefighters require the proper support for support and stability. Sprained ankles are the most reported injury in fighting fires.
Hidden dangers are a major concern for firefighters. Firefighting boots must allow the flexibility to walk on/over these hidden obstacles as well as support to the ankles to twist and turn at sharp angles. High water pressure also puts additional strain on the ankles. Proper ankle support ensures safety in answering calls of duty.
Traction: Slipping on wet surfaces causes severe injuries to firefighters. Traction and the ability to gain proper footing is mandatory for firefighters. They also work at extreme heights, and slipping on wet surfaces can result in serious falls.
Forest firefighters face another challenge. Leaves on the forest floor are slippery, similar to walking on ice. Climbing over dead trees, hidden by leaves, may result in injury if boots don’t have proper traction.
Firefighting boots must be equipped with Vibram outsoles for increased traction. A deep and intertwining thread of Vibram outsoles provides the traction needed and greatly reduces slips. Lugs on outsoles are another way to increase traction. Not all boots for firefighters offer this feature.
Why Don’t We Recommend Steel Toe Boots for Firefighters?
Firefighting is a dangerous job. Falling trees and sharp objects injure hundreds of firefighters per year.
They also face extreme heat conditions with temperatures rising up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, firefighters look for boots offering the most heat protection to feet.
While steel-toe footwear is used in most of the tactical boots, indeed it is not a choice for firefighters. Because steel is a conductor of heat and steel-toe boots tend to trap heat inside boots.
The trapped heat inside boots with steel toes raise temperature to extreme painful levels. This trapped heat may lead to blisters and more severe injuries.
Firefighters must have boots that are heat-resistant, comfortable and lightweight with a superior fit. Toe protection is not a significant concern; protection from excessive heat remains a top priority.
Look for boots that offer this protection.
In Conclusion
This review of the seven best wildland firefighting boots is for those who sacrifice their lives so others may live.
The boots described throughout this review are the best boots for firefighters available on the market today.
This review intends to highlight the features of these superior boots.
While there are no guarantees of protection when faced with roaring fires, these firefighting boots reduce the chances of possible serious injury.
Designed and crafted by some of the best boot manufacturers in the world, the seven best firefighting boots reviewed here offer you protection with comfort.
From raging forest fires to burning city buildings, you deserve the best in protection with increased comfort when it comes to firefighting boots.
The boots presented in this review offer you all that you need to fulfill your duty.
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