HAIX, the specialist for functional footwear and clothing, is now launching the first firefighting boot made from GORE-TEX CROSSTECH EXTRAGUARD material. The new FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is based on the popular lightweight firefighting boot and is the world's first model to use the innovative material from the GORE-TEX brand.

Lightweight, flexible, and moisture-resistant

The EXTRAGUARD upper material is set to raise the bar in the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG: According to the manufacturer, the material is characterized by reduced weight, quick drying after use in wet environments, and protection against everyday chemicals, viruses, and blood. Whether in floods, during lengthy firefighting operations, or at a traffic accident on a rainy day, firefighters are often called upon to work in wet environments. This places special demands on personal protective equipment. The three-layer EXTRAGUARD upper material is particularly robust, abrasion-resistant, and at the same time lighter than conventional leather, while absorbing virtually no moisture from the outside. This means that even after long periods of use in wet environments, the boots remain lightweight and the wearer's feet stay warm and dry. The upper material is combined with the internal, waterproof, breathable, and bacteria- and virus-proof GORE-TEX CROSSTECH lining in the boot.

Comfort for Firefighters

According to HAIX, the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG reliably protects the feet of emergency personnel from heat and flames and complies with DIN EN15090:2012 and the F2A requirement. The firefighting boot can be easily cleaned under running water; special care products such as those used for leather boots are not necessary. The sporty fit of the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG adds to the comfort for firefighters.

Quickly ready for Use thanks to RapidFit

The RapidFit closure system from HAIX has already proven itself in the FIRE EAGLE 2.0. Once adjusted to the individual fit, the closure can be quickly tightened with just one hand. No additional fastening of the laces is necessary, as the RapidFit system automatically holds the lacing in place after tightening. A wide, ergonomic grip makes it easy to close.

Secure all-round Protection

For the necessary all-round protection, the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG has a fiber-reinforced plastic toe cap, puncture protection, and a non-slip, heat-resistant sole. A pocket provides space for an RFID chip for digital management of PPE. The yellow instep protector has a smooth surface without openings, making it easy to clean and protecting the laces from damage. Special inserts in a high-visibility color also ensure good visibility, even in thick smoke.

Practical test proves convincing

As part of a practical wear test conducted by the Munich Fire Department, 22 firefighters tested the new firefighting boots over a period of twelve months in various operational situations, including technical assistance, fire and storm operations, and rescue services. 73 percent of participants found the boots to be “lightweight,” with nine percent even describing them as “very lightweight.” The boots' quick-drying properties were also rated positively, with 73 percent finding them ‘good’ and 27 percent “very good.” In addition, 91 percent of firefighters said they would continue to wear the boots during regular operations. Norwegian firefighter May Tømmervold is also enthusiastic: “My first impression when unpacking the boots was confirmed—they feel lighter than anything I've worn on duty before.” The goal of the product developers at HAIX seems to have been achieved: behind every innovation is a focus on the emergency services, who should be able to concentrate fully on their work thanks to the right products. The Norwegian firefighter was also curious about the new upper material and its performance in the field. She reports: “I wore the new boots for almost two years during every shift and tested them extensively – no matter what the scenario, the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG won me over!” The new FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is available in sizes UK 3 to 12 and in oversizes UK 13 to 15. The FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is now available in the HAIX online shop and in specialist stores.