A Perfect Fit for All: Extra Wides, Women’s Sizes, and More
Why It’s Important to Have a Boot that Fits
Buying boots can be a big decision. You need to consider what certifications you’ll need, what comfort features will help you get through the day pain-free, and how to get the perfect fit in the brands you are considering.
HAIX® Customer Service Team Lead Samantha Sweeney says that many of the people she talks to are making the switch to HAIX boots to ensure a better fit than they were getting from their previous footwear. Having an improper fit can cause painful problems for your feet.
"If the boot doesn't fit, they can get hotspots or blisters,” she says. “We've had people get bruises on their toes because the boot was too small or blisters because it's too big, or bunions because it was too tight in the toe box."
How HAIX Helps You Find the Perfect Fitting Boot
When trying on a pair of HAIX, the key to a great fit starts at the insole. On every HAIX insole there is a “perfect fit crescent,” showing where your toe should sit for a perfect fit. The right size boot will be roomy enough in the toebox to prevent bumping or crowding.
"I always tell people, you need a half inch of space between your toe and the end of the toe box ,” says Sweeney. “Especially with firefighting and EMS, they need to go on uneven terrain, and if they're too close to that toe box, they're literally going to bump their toes against the end constantly."
Firefighting and EMS Boots Available in Extra Wide
From there, it’s just a matter of finding the right width. Some HAIX boots run a bit narrow, so we recommend that you start with a wide if you are a medium in athletic shoes. Width availability varies by shoe, but we do offer Narrow, Medium, Wide, and Extra Wide in some boots.
Looking for an Extra Wide boot? Browse all boots available in Extra Wide widths.
Create a Personalized Fit with HAIX Boot Features
There are several proprietary features which help you get a personalized feel from your boots.
For station boots, the addition of a front zipper allows for a faster donning and doffing process, as well as a personalized fit. Just lace up your boot to your ideal comfort, then use the front zipper to get in and out in an instant—keeping your laces just as you left them.
Similarly, the RAPIDfit Lacing in the Fire Eagle Xtreme boot offers a pull-on lacing system that can accommodate larger calves and ankles.
HAIX Boots in Women’s Sizes
HAIX also offers something simple, yet effective to get half the population a better fit for their boots: women’s sizes.
“With women's sizing, they can go more off their athletic shoe,” Sweeney said. “If they wear a size 8, I can say, 'Great, we actually have that available in a women's.'"
For a complete list of our boots that are available in women’s sizes, visit this page.
