What’s up, Better Every Shift Nation? Welcome back to the conversation.
If you’ve been listening to the Better Every Shift podcast, you know the mission is simple: We want to improve your performance, your health and your career. We spend a lot of time digging into culture, leadership and mental resilience, but let’s be real, sometimes being better comes down to having the right equipment when the tone drops.
As we head into the holiday season, I wanted to put together a list of gear that actually makes a difference. I reached out to our partners at TheFireStore to see what the industry is loving right now, and I listened to you — our merry band of Better Every Shift misfits — about what gear you rely on day in and day out.
The result? Five items that come highly recommended by the community and that I have personally put to the test on the job. These aren’t just stocking stuffers; they are tools that help you perform.
Here are my top holiday picks from TheFireStore, curated with help from the Better Every Shift Nation.
1. The heavy hauler: TheFireStore Wheeled Firefighter Jumbo Gear Bag
One of the most common questions I hear when I travel is about how I stay organized. We carry a ridiculous amount of stuff — turnout gear, station uniforms extra boots and your gym gear.
The folks at TheFireStore recommended this bag to me a couple of years ago, and I have been using it religiously ever since. It features the reflective trim and the Maltese Cross, so it looks sharp, but it’s the durability that sold me. It has survived the back of my truck and the station floor for two years and still looks new.
If you are tired of blowing out zippers on cheap bags, this is the upgrade you need. Plus, the wheels save your energy for the fireground, not the parking lot.
2. The “health-first” choice: Homeland Six Nylon Universal Radio Holster & Strap
On the podcast, and in my work with the First Responder Center for Excellence, we have had some serious discussions about cancer in the fire service. We know leather is traditional, but it also absorbs toxins and is tough to decon.
Many listeners have reached out suggesting nylon alternatives, and the Homeland Six setup is the winner here. This was a strong recommendation from the community for anyone looking to modernize their gear with health in mind. It’s less bulky than the traditional strap-and-holster setup, which helps with movement, but the real benefit is that it cleans easily.
If you are looking to align your gear with the best practices we talk about on the show, this is a great place to start.
- Holster: Homeland Six Nylon Universal Radio Holster
- Strap: Homeland Six Identifire Illuminated Radio Strap
3. Our “uniform”: The Game Sportswear Diamond Quilt Jacket
I cannot tell you how many times people have asked me about this jacket when I wear it in videos or at conferences. It’s practically the unofficial uniform of the fire service during the winter months.
I wear The Game Jacket constantly. It is warm, durable and versatile enough to wear while checking the rig or grabbing coffee after a shift. I actually had mine personalized with “ZAM” (naturally). It’s a great gift because it looks professional but feels comfortable — exactly what you want when you’re at the station.
4. Listener favorite: Streamlight PolyTac 90X USB
When we discuss safety on the show, lighting always comes up. The Streamlight PolyTac 90X USB was recommended to me by several listeners who swore by its versatility, and they were right. The 90-degree head clips perfectly onto your gear for hands-free operation, which is non-negotiable for me. Plus, the USB rechargeable capability means you don’t have to dig through the station’s junk drawer for batteries at 3 a.m. It’s a solid recommendation from the field that I fully endorse.
5. The “MacGyver” tool: Williams Folding Key
This is one of those pro tips that gets shared around the firehouse kitchen table. I had a crewmember show me this years ago, and it has saved us numerous times since. The Williams Folding Key is a simple, shove-knife style tool that fits right in your pocket. Whether it’s slipping a latch without damage during a welfare check or just having a pry tool handy, it is incredibly useful. It’s inexpensive, effective and makes a perfect stocking stuffer for the firefighter who thinks they have everything.
I hope this list gives you some great ideas for the holidays. Whether you pick these up for yourself or a crewmember, the goal is always the same — to be safer, more effective and ready for duty.
A huge shoutout to TheFireStore and to all the listeners in the Better Every Shift Nation who sent in recommendations. Keep the feedback coming, keep training, and let’s keep getting better every shift.
