Firefighting footwear’s innovation battle: HAIX addresses the evolution of firefighter footwear through inclusivity, adaptability and sustainability

by Breaking NewsPPE

Simon Ash, UK Sales Manager at HAIX, shares insights into the three ways in which firefighter footwear must advance and how the demands of the modern firefighter can be met through innovative manufacturing

Many people still see a firefighters’ role as an unchanging fight to respond to emergencies and keep us safe.

However, in reality this is an industry which is constantly evolving due to changes in climate, the make-up of the workforce, and the need to move towards a sustainable future.

These changes lean into three strands where innovation of personal protective equipment (PPE) must continue to develop to ensure firefighters are fully equipped to tackle these new challenges: inclusivity, adaptability and sustainability.

Manufacturers for the firefighting industry must ensure innovative production efforts respond to these three key themes so the needs of the modern firefighter are met, whilst also maintaining a continuous look towards the future of PPE, in particular PPE footwear.

Innovation in inclusivity

With the fire sector being a largely male industry, the fit and form of PPE for female firefighters can be sidelined.

For example, there is an estimated 3,184 female firefighters in the UK, a number which is growing annually, yet there is a need for PPE footwear and workwear to be designed with women in mind.

This is crucial in enabling comfort, safety and protection for women, as well as making them feel seen within the industry.

Firefighters, such as Caillin Tyler at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, query the one-size-fits-all approach to PPE and encourage manufacturers to look at the design variations which could help solve issues such as discomfort and inadequate fit.

Caillin comments: “Poorly fitting boots greatly increases our chance of injury.

A knock-on effect of this is that our fitness is affected, as we may have to go on rest or be unable to exercise which impacts our ability to carry out our work effectively.”

Manufacturers such as HAIX, the high-quality, functional footwear provider, have created boots specifically to support the individual.

A common misconception is that this has to be a boot just for women.

Rather, it is more important to put thought and investment into how the boots can be adapted to fit each and every firefighter, irrelevant of whether it is for a male or female worker.

Such designs are driven by innovative techniques and advancements in material, structure and comfort.

For example, the Fire Eagle 2.0 prioritizes being lightweight and having a unique lacing system which ensures a compact fit at the bottom with a looser fit around the ankle to be protective but leave room for natural movement.

This allows the boot to mold to the wearer and also to the activity they are doing, whether that be driving a fire engine, tackling house fires, or attending incidences in the forest.

Additionally, to understand what the individual requires, manufacturers must speak to firefighters on their experiences and address key concerns around PPE performance and requirements.

Events and trade shows provide a great opportunity to gather this information firsthand and exchange knowledge and expertise across the sector, which can then be incorporated into better, more responsive boot designs.

Innovation in adaptability

As well as changes within the firefighter demographics, there are also new demands due to changing weather conditions and fire risks.

One of which is the rise in wildfires in the not just in the UK but across the world, which requires a different set of skills and, alongside this, a different approach to PPE footwear.

Wildfires require high levels of footwear protection but also boots which adhere to different terrains, from slippery woodland grounds to coping with obstacles such as fallen branches.

A combination of heavily structural boots with excellent protection against sharp objects and heat, as well as a lightweight and flexible fit to allow easy movement and prolonged wearing, is now necessary to prepare firefighters facing extreme elements.

Innovative solutions to the ever-changing climate that firefighters tackle exists in the PPE footwear sector with products such as the Special Fighter Pro, Fire Eagle 2.0 and Missoula 2.0 by HAIX, offering versatility, protection and comfort.

These boots have been specifically created so that firefighters can tackle urban and wildfire incidences effectively.

Innovation in sustainability  

Sustainable practices within PPE have become a critical focus with a much-needed shift away from the narrative that manufacturing these types of products eco-consciously is too difficult.

From the materials to the production methods, companies are putting more focus on durability in their products to not only benefit the wearer, but also the environment.

Through working with local suppliers rather than large-scale global supply chains, companies have a better understanding of where materials are coming from and whether such producers also follow ethical practices.

Optimizations within the production factory and powering sites through renewable energy also assists in making the development of PPE a more eco-conscious one.

Footwear, as with other manufacturing items, can be recycled, creating a circular process.

An effective way in which circularity can be implemented is through a repair service.

HAIX is one such manufacturer that has implemented this initiative to great success and in 2023, over 12,500 shoes were repaired and returned to their owners rather than being discarded.

Once the footwear has been maximized and used to its full potential, materials go through a complex recycling process which helps reduce the volume of waste and allows the use of waste to be used as an energy source, contributing to the conservation of natural resources.

Conclusion

The firefighting industry is making impressive innovative improvements within PPE, in particular, footwear.

There is better collaboration between manufacturers and the end user to ensure changing needs are met, addressing the requirements of the role.

Companies are also making investments into being more sustainable which will have paramount impacts on the environment, the customers and the manufacturers themselves.

Innovation has no end date or completion goal.

It is an ever-changing and ongoing process, which requires a unified and open-minded industry.

Overall, the firefighter sector has seen positive development in relation to PPE manufacturing and products, which continues to advance every day.

Tuffking expands operations with investment from South West Investment Fund

by Featured NewsPPE

Tuffking secures funding to support job creation and UK manufacturing growth

Tuffking, a British safety footwear manufacturer, has received a six-figure investment from the South West Investment Fund, an initiative supported by the British Business Bank.

The investment, facilitated by fund manager FW Capital, will enable Tuffking to create nine new jobs, expand its customer base, and further develop its UK manufacturing facilities.

This will enhance the production of its British-made protective boots.

Tuffking, headquartered in Swindon following a recent relocation, has a history of producing durable safety footwear since its establishment in 1854 as Giffard Newton & Sons.

Expanding global reach and sustainability initiatives

The company is also strengthening its global presence as demand for its products grows internationally.

Tuffking plans to achieve a turnover of £50 million by 2030, supported by its commitment to quality and innovation.

The business recently launched an industry-first boot made from 100% recycled vegan materials and post-consumer waste, reflecting its focus on sustainability.

Client diversification and technological advancement

Tuffking’s products are utilised across sectors including emergency services, the military, and industries such as oil and gas.

Its range incorporates advanced technology like Vibram high-density rubber outsoles and the in-house developed Tuff-Dry waterproof membrane.

Since 2021, Tuffking has more than tripled its UK emergency sector client base, further establishing its reputation in this market.

Statements from FW Capital and the British Business Bank

Ryan Dhindsa, Managing Director at Tuffking, said: “We’ve a very well-established business that is growing at pace and the investment received from the South West Investment Fund via FW Capital is a great boost.

“The nature of our business and clients’ needs means we are a specialist manufacturer with a reputation for delivering quality and trusted products.”

David Goodall, Fund Manager at FW Capital, stated: “Tuffking is on an exciting journey of growth as it reacts to changing demands which has seen them diversify and expand their product range.”

Lizzy Upton from the British Business Bank added: “We’re delighted that the South West Investment Fund has backed this ambitious business, with its rich history, commitment to innovation and increasing UK manufacturing capabilities.”

Tuffking expands operations with investment from South West Investment Fund: Summary

Tuffking, a UK-based safety footwear manufacturer, has received a six-figure investment from the South West Investment Fund via FW Capital.

This funding will support job creation, the expansion of UK manufacturing facilities, and the development of sustainable products.

Tuffking, headquartered in Swindon, aims to increase its turnover to £50 million by 2030 and has diversified its client base across emergency services, the military, and industrial sectors.

The South West Investment Fund, supported by the British Business Bank, provides loans and equity investments to help small and medium-sized businesses in the region grow and innovate.

New BLACK EAGLE safety pro mid launched in UK by HAIX

by Featured NewsPPE

HAIX releases new safety boot designed for UK workforce

HAIX has launched the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID, a new work boot designed for maximum safety and comfort for workers.

This launch introduces a highly durable yet lightweight boot featuring a cut and abrasion-resistant upper material.

The company has built upon its reputation for creating functional footwear by incorporating new features into the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID.

As reported by HAIX, this boot is aimed at a wide range of professions, including construction, landscaping, and gardening.

Enhanced safety features and comfort

The BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID offers safety and comfort, combining a lightweight composite toe cap and textile puncture protection.

The boot is designed with breathability in mind, using an antistatic material and providing a cushioned, moisture-repellent insole.

Simon Ash, UK & Ireland Sales Manager at HAIX, said: “The HAIX BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO is the perfect all-rounder for everyday work—whether on construction sites or in landscaping and gardening.

“The upper textile used is extremely robust, even cut-resistant, whilst also being flexible and breathable.”

Adaptability to different working environments

The outsole of the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID has been engineered for slip resistance, allowing the boot to perform on different terrains.

Its midsole, equipped with composite puncture resistance, provides shock absorption and protection from sharp objects, adding an extra layer of safety for the user.

The footwear is also designed to maintain comfort across varying working conditions.

With its adjustable width options and moisture-repellent properties, workers can adapt the boot to suit their individual needs.

GORE-TEX technology for all-weather protection

HAIX has incorporated the GORE-TEX membrane in this latest model, which ensures feet stay dry even in wet environments.

This, combined with the mid-height upper material, offers additional stability and protection for those working outdoors in the UK.

This boot is positioned as a reliable choice for individuals needing protective and comfortable footwear that withstands tough working conditions.

New BLACK EAGLE safety pro mid launched in UK by HAIX: Summary

HAIX has introduced the BLACK EAGLE SAFETY PRO MID in the UK.

This new boot offers high-level safety and comfort for workers in construction, landscaping, and similar professions.

With its lightweight composite toe cap, slip-resistant outsole, and textile puncture protection, the boot is designed to withstand various environments.

The use of GORE-TEX technology ensures the footwear remains dry in wet conditions, while the mid-height upper provides extra stability.

The footwear also includes options for adjustable width and a cushioned insole for added comfort.

Firefighting boots: Adaptive footwear for modern fire challenges

by Breaking NewsPPE

HAIX explores the shift from traditional firefighting boots to advanced designs that meet the demands of both urban and wildfire scenarios in England

England isn’t typically known for its hot and dry summers unlike other parts of the world; however, the country experiences an average of 30,000 wildfires annually, which is three times the number in Greece and four times that of Canada.

Although Canadian and Greek wildfires typically burn more hectares and cause greater devastation, the persistent and growing problem of wildfires in England is undeniable.

Trends over the past decade show fluctuations, but the overall increase in wildfire incidents highlights that it is now crucial that firefighters are equipped with the appropriate wildfire footwear to enable day-to-day use as well as fight wildfires when they arise.

The growing wildfire problem

The key trend of concern to Fire and Rescue Services is the increase in both size and intensity of wildfires, this is directly linked to more typical dry air ‘wildfire weather’.

These extreme wildfire weather events are increasing in frequency and set to get worse due to climate change, which is something already showing in Europe over the last few decades.

Over the past 12 years, around 79,000 hectares of land has been burnt by wildfires in England and fire and rescue services have been increasingly burdened by wildfires.

From 2009-10 to 2020-21, there were over 360,000 wildfire incidents, burning more than 79,000 hectares of land and consuming nearly 540,000 hours of firefighting time.

Peak years such as 2011-12, had around 47,000 incidents, and the most devastating year, 2018-19, which saw over 26,000 hectares burnt, illustrates the significant impact wildfires are having.

Changing times call for changing footwear

Traditionally, firefighters have relied on a combination of wellington boots and structural boots, however, neither of these are ideal for combating wildfires.

Structural boots, designed for urban firefighting, offer excellent protection against heat and sharp objects but are often too heavy and cumbersome for the varied terrains and response times encountered during wildfires.

Wellington boots, while lighter, do not provide the necessary protection or support for prolonged and arduous wildfire conditions.

The current issued footwear fails to meet the demands of wildfire situations where firefighters cover long distances and endure extended hours.

This leads to severe discomfort, blisters, and more painful outcomes like the loss of toenails, compromising the effectiveness and safety of firefighters during life-saving wildfire operations.

Firefighters need to be issued footwear that is comfortable for both tasks, structural firefighting for short duration use and long-use wildfire incidents.

There are boots on the market that do both.

Keeping ahead of the problem

Specialist wildfire designed PPE is becoming a necessity to protect the health of firefighters.

The traditional approach to firefighting footwear is no longer sufficient and firefighters should now be equipped with structural boots as well as more lightweight boots that provide added comfort and protection for extended use, or ideally a boot that does both.

With climate change creating more unpredictable and extreme wildfire conditions, the versatility of the footwear and other equipment worn by firefighters is key.

As new material develops, firefighting boots will become lighter and more flexible without sacrificing protection and comfort, making them ideal for wildfire use.

The challenge with structural boots is that they’re designed to be worn for shorter periods of time, meaning in wildfire situations they become increasingly uncomfortable.

However, A boot such as the HAIX Fire Eagle 2.0 is a fully certified structural fire boot that works perfectly as a wildfire boot and technical rescue boot as it’s flexible and lighter than other options on the market while still providing the protection of a structural boot.

This makes the boot more forgiving on the feet for longer duration use and limits the risk of blistering and other injuries.

Feedback and continuous innovation

HAIX works closely with Fire and Rescue Services internationally, exhibiting at the UK Wildfire conference, the National Fire Chiefs Council PPE conference, and key trade shows such as the Emergency Services Show in the UK and Interschutz in Germany.

This enables HAIX experts to understand the requirements and challenges faced by the industry, allowing the company to incorporate these learnings into its boot designs.

HAIX is in constant communication with firefighters on the changing requirements in the UK, as well as using the knowledge gained from across the world where wildfires have been more prevalent over recent years to ensure boots meet and address firefighter needs.

To specifically consider the risk of wildfires, HAIX works closely with wildfire specialists in the UK who wear trial a range of products.

One of those wildfire experts is Andy Elliott, Director of Wildfire Training and Consultancy Ltd.

Who has been an operational firefighter for more than 40 years. Andy has worked on prescribed fires and wildfires on four continents.

Andy commented: “I have worn many different makes of fire boot over the years.

“All provide protection from the outside, but very few protect your feet on the inside; the bit that keeps you going all day.

“I have recently moved to HAIX boots for both wildfire and daily wear.

“I have used the Fire Eagle, Special Fighter Pro and the Missoula boot for wildfires and the Black Eagle Safety 50 high and mid safety boots for daily wear.

“Since moving to HAIX, I have not suffered from sore feet, blisters or lost any toenails.

“I still walk as far as I ever did, I can now do it in comfort in all weathers and conditions.

“HAIX boots are strong enough to do the job excellently but light enough to keep the effort down and comfort levels very high.

“I can’t recommend them highly enough and I don’t see me switching to another brand anytime soon”.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

The evolution of safety footwear standards

by Breaking NewsPPE

Burlington Uniforms‘ General Manager, Tristan Weedon, discusses the evolution of safety footwear standards and their impact on workplace safety and worker wellbeing

One crucial piece of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is often underestimated: safety footwear.

Safety footwear acts as a shield against hazards, including impact, punctures, slips and falls, electrical hazards, chemical spills and extreme temperatures.

Steel toes or composite caps absorb the brunt of falling objects, preventing crushed or broken toes.

Thick, puncture-resistant soles protect feet from sharp objects like nails, screws, or metal shards, minimising the risk of painful puncture wounds and potential infections.

Slippery surfaces are a major cause of workplace accidents.

Safety footwear incorporates slip-resistant treads that provide superior traction, reducing the likelihood of a fall and associated injuries.

In environments with exposed electrical wiring or potential for static discharge, specialist non-conductive footwear can safeguard against electrical shocks.

Specific safety boots offer protection from chemical splashes or spills, preventing burns and skin irritation.

Meanwhile extreme temperatures can be hazardous for feet.

Insulated boots can regulate temperature, keeping feet comfortable and preventing burns or frostbite.

Selecting safety footwear – the basics

Procurement teams musts consider several key factors when buying safety footwear – the work environment, tasks performed and comfort.

Safety footwear shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort regardless of the occupation or setting.

Ill-fitting or uncomfortable footwear can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity and even an increased risk of accidents.

 In its Health & Safety at Work guidance – Working feet and footwear document, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) state: ‘Wherever special footwear is provided the employer must make sure that it fits properly and should allow the toes wiggle room (around 1cm gap between the longest toe and the end of the shoe)…’

Critical provision

Of course, there are certain professions, such as firefighting, where safety footwear is critical. For UK firefighters, every second counts.

Whether they’re responding to a late-night blaze or undergoing rigorous training exercises, comfort and safety are paramount.

There are varying degrees of fire safety footwear, from general station wear to specialist firefighting footwear, each must comply with the associated standards.

Station wear

Station boots are the workhorses of a firefighter’s station wear, providing vital support and protection throughout the day. Durability is key.

They need to withstand the rigours of daily use, from navigating uneven surfaces in the station yard to tackling demanding training drills.

But durability doesn’t come at the expense of comfort.

Firefighters often spend long hours on their feet, so station boots are designed to be comfortable for extended wear, preventing fatigue and ensuring readiness for an emergency call-out.

Historically, brigades have opted for EN ISO 20347 compliant occupational footwear, ensuring long-term wearability and support.

However, more recently and as risk assessments identify new hazards, buyers are switching over to EN ISO 20345.

Navigating EN ISO 20345:2011 to EN ISO 20345:2022

The standard is currently in transition from EN ISO 20345:2011 to EN ISO 20345:2022.

For manufacturers, the ability to continue production under valid EN ISO 20345:2011 certificates until 11th November 2024.

After this date, all existing certificates will expire at their designated date, at which time, safety footwear must be re-tested and certified against the updated requirements of EN ISO 20345:2022.

Notable changes

Most of the basic requirements remain the same for EN ISO 20345:2011 and EN ISO 20345:2022.

However, EN ISO 20345:2022 does includes some key changes, most notably – slip resistance.

The slip resistance testing procedure has been improved.

Previously, slip resistance could be checked against any part of the sole, now it must be tested specifically on the heel (heel strike area) and at the toes (push-off point), the two critical points where there is minimal contact with the ground.

All tests (SRA, SRB and SRC) and their associated markings are no longer used.

Instead, all appropriate safety shoes must demonstrate basic slip resistance.

Additional requirements

There are now also 18 potential additional requirements for occupational footwear, including six new ones – PL and PS under Perforation resistance; a new standalone additional test for Ladder Grip (LG); a new standard for Fuel oil resistance which now includes resistance to hydrocarbons (FO); a new SC marking for Scuff cap; and the old WRA marking for Water resistance has been replaced by WPA and a more stringent WR (water resistant) mark.

Protection levels

Under the 2011 standard, the protection levels were divided into six class: SB, S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5.

Under the new standard, there are now eight main protection classes with the addition of S6 and S7.

These replace S2 with Water Resistant Upper, now S6 and S3 with Water Resistant Upper, now S7 and are used to indicate those with higher water resistance properties in line with the new WR certification.

The class codes may also be followed by P, L (or PL) and S (or PS) to indicate additional perforation resistance in line with the P, PL and PS certifications.

Firefighters – Structural

UK firefighters need boots that can withstand intense heat, treacherous terrain and exposure to water, while still providing the flexibility and support for long hours on their feet.

Firefighter Structural boots prioritise heat and flame resistance through EN 15090.

EN 15090:2012 specifies the minimum requirements and test methods for the performance of three types of footwear used by firefighters for fire suppression, general-purpose rescue, fire rescue and emergencies involving hazardous materials.

These are classified as Class 1: footwear made from leather and other materials, excluding all-rubber or all-polymeric footwear and Class 2: all rubber (i.e., entirely vulcanised), all polymeric (manufactured in one piece) and hybrid footwear (polymeric) footwear with another material that extends the upper.

Ultimate protection

There are certain conditions which demand specialist kit, such as a High Volume Pump (HPV) shout and a Technical Rescue.

Both combine the safety features of EN ISO 20345 and EN 15090 to create a high performance boot.

In fact, there are an increasing number of boots tested to EN ISO 20345:2022 along with EN 15090.

This covers much more stringent safety checks on slip resistance, waterproofing, puncture protection etc.

Specialist Technical Rescue boots also often use additional safety features for protection against electrocution during live work or in proximity of live parts of plants up to 36000 V AC or 25000 V DC (EN 50321) and Chainsaw cut resistance (EN 17249).

Essential element

Safety footwear plays a vital role in UK firefighting, ensuring comfort, durability and protection throughout long shifts and in demanding conditions.

It’s an essential element of a healthy, productive and ultimately, successful work environment.

By prioritising appropriate footwear, employers can safeguard their workers physical wellbeing, reduce mental stress, create a culture of safety and peace of mind and help minimise the risk of accidents and the financial burden associated with workplace injury.

About Burlington Uniforms

Burlington Uniforms has a reputation as one of the UK’s leading uniform providers.

We focus on delivering innovation and excellence in line with our values, supplying exceptional uniforms, workwear and personal protective equipment (PPE) to a diverse clientele.

Established in 1974 as a Savile Row tailor by Anthony Hewitt, we are proud of our family roots, which provide the foundation for the friendly and attentive approach which runs throughout the business.

We provide an outstanding customer experience through unparalleled customer care and our hassle-free uniform supply service – offering sizing, customisation, branding and stock holding.

This is complemented by our innovative Wardrobe Management System which empowers clients to address their staff uniform requirements remotely and with ease.

A trusted and dedicated specialist supplier, we support some of the UK’s most prestigious brands, businesses and service providers, in both the public and private sector, offering a unique blend of personalised service and cutting-edge products.

You can reach us at 0208 443 6920, via email at sales@burlington-uniforms.co.uk, or visit our website at www.burlington-uniforms.co.uk.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Graham Cole OBE becomes brand ambassador for 4SYS

by Featured NewsPPE

International Brands Group (IBG) has announce that Graham Cole OBE will join as Brand Ambassador for 4SYS Footwear.

The actor and performer and best known for his role as Tony Stamp in the ITV series The Bill. Cola as 4SYS Footwear ambassador will appear in a series of new print and digital creatives from the brand that celebrates those brave professionals who protect those in the community.

“We could not be more thrilled to have Graham Cole join International Brands Group as the newest face of our 4SYS brand,” said Glen Richards, Commercial Director.

“I’m very excited to begin this new relationship with 4SYS Footwear,” said Graham Cole OBE, 4SYS Brand Ambassador. “We all know the importance that Police Officers have the best kit and equipment to protect them whilst on duty and 4SYS Footwear delivers exactly that. 4SYS Footwear is a supporter of PTSD999 an organisation for which I am the President. PTSD999 provides Trauma Response Awareness Training for those who have served in the Emergency Services and Military.”

International Brand Group to distribute Totectors safety footwear

by Featured NewsPPEProducts

International Brands Group (IBG) has agreed nationwide distribution for Totectors brand of safety footwear brand through Travis Perkins the Nationwide Timber and Builders Merchants.

Totectors has been synonymous with safety footwear since 1944. The original safety toe boots worn by military, industrial and construction personnel across the world. The boots are made to be strong and dependable, just like the men and women and women that wear them.

75 years on Totectors has been designed to Challenge Status Quo, gone are the heavy, bulky, old-school styles, replaced with sleek, lightweight styles you’ll be happy to keep on your feet at the end of the working day.

Glen Richards, Commercial Director of IBG commented: “It was our plan to make Totectors available to Tradespeople up and down the country, we recognise Travis Perkins as the most reputable timber and building merchants, so we are therefore delighted to have secured Nationwide Distribution through their extensive branch network.”

Boots on the ground: Heroes Wear HAIX®

by Products

HAIX®, a hi-tech manufacturer of specialist footwear based in Bavaria, Germany, has gained its reputation for reliability and quality in footwear for firefighters, police and military forces, emergency services and taskforces worldwide. HAIX® focuses on protecting operators from the day-to-day hazards of demanding, dangerous and life-saving roles, while maintaining outstanding comfort. Its innovative design and hi-tech approach is inspired by the personal experiences of professional firefighters within the company.

HAIX® was founded by Xaver Haimerl in 1948, as a hiking and work boot manufacturer. It was Xaver’s son, Ewald Haimerl, who steered HAIX® on its current course. As the deputy chief of Mainburg’s fire service, Ewald was unhappy with the boots that he and his firefighter colleagues were supplied with. So, in 1992, he applied the skills learned working in his father’s factory to designing custom boots to specifically fit the needs of firefighters.

Over nearly 30 years, HAIX® has expanded its product range and today HAIX boots support heroes in more than 80 countries across the world.

“Aid workers dealing with the Fukushima disaster, the Haiti earthquake and the typhoon in the Philippines put their trust in HAIX footwear designed for the emergency services. We equip armies, task forces and police all over the world with functional footwear. These shoes have been developed with the reality of what happens in practice in mind – often in collaboration with the relevant decision makers,” says Simon Ash, Sales manager HAIX UK.

Footwear for every challenge

In the UK, HAIX boots support the day to day missions and rescue work of heroes in the military and the emergency services, including firefighters, police and coastguard volunteers.

Her Majesty’s Coastguard provides year-round search and rescue with 352 HM Coastguard rescue teams located in stations around the UK. Its 3000 volunteers chose HAIX boots, and Richard Hackwell, Head of Coastal Resources for HM Coastguard, says: “Our volunteers work hard, and we need a boot that can keep up and work just as hard as they do. Rescue missions can last for long periods of time when searching for missing people; our volunteers are lifting loads, carrying people and working on a variety of terrains, so it is important to ensure they have the best support available for their feet.”

Supporting firefighters, every step of the way

As well as working with emergency services teams directly, HAIX also supports charitable causes that care for active and retired emergency services professionals physically, mentally and financially.  One of these causes is the British Firefighter Challenge, an annual event that sees former and currently serving firefighters compete in a series of gruelling strength and endurance tests.

The 2019 edition, held in Watford, saw 186 firefighters compete in the event, raising a total of nearly £7,000 of donations for the British Firefighter Charity.  HAIX, as Team GB’s official footwear sponsor, provided each member of the team with a pair of Black Eagle trainers to wear during training, as well as a pair of Fire Eagle Boots to wear during the Challenge itself.

Simon Ash adds, “Whether in Watford or Devon, Los Angeles or Kosovo– wherever firefighters are deployed, wherever lives are being saved, wherever absolute reliability is demanded of footwear in the field – that’s where HAIX’s premium quality boots are an essential piece of kit.

“Our customers entrust us with the everyday safety of their employees and our shoes enable them to fulfil their missions. All of us at team HAIX® are proud to say that heroes wear HAIX® and our objective is to offer our loyal fans the best protective shoes in the world”.

www.haix.co.uk/