Boots

Boots are one of the biggest purchases new wildland firefighters will make. What brand? What style? What are the requirements? There is a lot that goes into making a decision about your boots. You should talk with wildland firefighters who have been out on the line for a few years. Crews might like the traditional wildland boot. Engines may prefer the hiking boot style.

With so many options you'll need to know a few things. First, be sure to understand how you want or should "fit" your boots. Do you want a snug toe box? Do you want the traditional toe gap? Second, what is your width? Have you tried other widths before? Third, do you require any sort of arch support? Fourth, do you require a specialty sole insert? Fifth, what is your plan for socks?

If possible, go out and try on the different styles of boots and from a few different brands. Spend some time at the store and become familiar with different fittings and widths. Be sure to wear the socks that you intend to work in.

The file found below is a spreadsheet of boots that I have been compiling over the last two seasons. It isn't complete but will give you a sense of the price ranges and styles. Visit the manufacturer's website to see all of the details for any given boot.

boot_comparisons_2025.xlsx
File Size:	14 kb
File Type:	xlsx

Download File

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