GEAR TEST

For Globe Magnum's structural firefighting boots, form follows function

By Travis Kidd

While fighting a structure fire, water, heat, acid and rough surfaces all pose slip hazards and increase the possibility of getting burned and the probability of getting a few abrasions along the way. Structural firefighting boots should protect us from these adversaries while providing high levels of comfort and durability.

PHOTOS STEVE KIDD For my first test, I knocked my shins against the rungs of a roof ladder to see if the plate sewn into the boot would protect me, and it did.

With that in mind, I decided to test Globe Magnum's new structural firefighting boots. According to the company's Web site, these boots are remarkably flexible right out of the box and feature a better fit, a better grip and a lighter weight than previous models.

After pulling on the boots for the first time, I discovered they were very comfortable and attractive. The boots' overall design optimizes their fit, as do the provided "thick fit" inserts, which provided cushioning as well.

Additional features include surprisingly light, flexible, thick leather components; an underside with a great tread design that uses "siping," or small cuts in the sole, to increase traction on slippery surfaces; and reflective striping on the sides. Note: Although the striping is a good idea, it's in the wrong place. My bunker pants covered all of it, rendering it useless. If the reflective strip was located on the lower portion of the boot, other firefighters would be able to see it while crawling through a structure. Overall, however, the boots feature high-quality construction that doesn't neglect small details, such as cross-stitching on the pull straps and cement-like bonding material that binds the bottom sole to the upper part of the boot.

During the second test, I dropped an 8-lb. axe onto the boot’s toe cap, which showed no sign of wear or damage after several drops.

Protection for the firefighter is integrated into several places along the Globe Magnum. First, a molded plastic plate sewn into the boot protects a firefighter's shins. To test this feature, I climbed a 14' roof ladder and deliberately struck my lower leg against the rungs on my way up. The plate provided ample protection from all the light blows.

The boot also features a composite toe cap and a ceramic protection pad located inside the shoe between the shank and the footbed. The composite toe cap obviously protects the firefighter's foot from objects that come in contact with the front and top of the boot.

To test the strength of the toe cap, I repeatedly dropped an 8-lb. axe onto it to see if it would give way. After several drops, the boot didn't show one bit of damage, which proves it should also hold up well when crawling through a building.

Next, I tested the ceramic protection pad. First I drilled a screw through a 2 x 4 and placed the board flush against the ground with the screw pointing straight up. I then placed another 2 x 4 inside the boot, placed the boot on top of the screw and applied pressure, using as much of my weight as I could, onto the 2 x 4 inside the boot for about 30 seconds. I discovered the exterior wouldn't give way to the screw. To make sure the boot didn't suffer any unseen damage, I inspected the interior, but didn't find anything.

The ceramic protection pad between the shank and the footbed protect firefighters' feet from hazardous objects and areas they might have to traverse while on scene.

Another great feature: The Globe Magnums are waterproof, so for my final test, I soaked them in water for several minutes, yet my feet remained dry throughout the entire process.

The only aspect of the boots that I didn't particularly care for is their composite shank, which provides arch support. Although the shank did its job well, it was almost too much;
I was constantly reminded of its presence. However, this observation is based on my personal comfort level, with the arch of my foot being what it is. You may need more or less support depending on the arch of your foot and your comfort level.

Despite this minor issue, Globe Magnum has thoroughly investigated the field of firefighting and has addressed the dangers and obstacles firefighters face on scene. These boots are designed for comfort but built to last, so the firefighter who wears them will be well protected and very comfortable.

Travis Kidd has been a firefighter/EMT with the Orange County (Fla.) Fire Department for the past six years and is currently assigned to Rescue 40.

Globe Magnum’s structural firefighting boot
Pros + Great fit; + Extremely comfortable; + Protects firefighters from abrasions and bruises; + Waterproof; and + Lightweight. Cons - Reflective material is in the wrong place; and - Arch support might be too much for some firefighters.	Globe by Magnum 37 Loudon Rd. Pittsfield, NH 03263 Tel: 800/232-8323 Fax: 800/442-6388 E-mail: info@globefiresuits.com Web: www.globemagnum.com