Why Do the Experts Wear Missoula 2.1 Wildland Firefighting Boots?
Heat-resistant sole. All-day comfort. Protective ankle support.
There's a lot of reasons to wear Missoula 2.1 wildland firefighting boots. But why do you wear them? We went straight to the people putting their Missoula 2.1s to the test in the harshest conditions to find out how these wildland fire boots are helping them get the job done.
John Giokas
Hoist Crew Wildland Firefighter
Alberta, CA
What is your name and job title?
My name is John Giokas. I am a wildland firefighter on Alberta's first Hoist Crew Program. Previous years Helitack.
How long have you owned your Missoula 2.1 boots?
I've owned my Missoulas for a full year now. So, here is my 12-month review. I love wearing my Missoulas on the fireline or even just project work around base. They keep my feet dry and ventilated and, of course, safe. I find them to be much more comfortable on a daily basis than my HAIX chainsaw boots.
How do your Missoula 2.1s help you perform to your best?
Missoulas keep me moving in all weather and terrain. I'm constantly in and out of helicopters and find other boots either feel too heavy and clunky, or too light and wear down easily. The Missoulas are a perfect in-between boot that helps me go from the heli to the fireline without worries.
Can you share a story where your boots made a big difference?
One fire, we hover-exited into the Alberta Muskeg wetlands and everyone's feet got wet except mine. Having a boot that performs in all weather and all scenarios is much needed in this industry!
Leslie Blaszk
Rapattack Crew Leader
British Columbia, CA
What is your name and job title?
Leslie Blaszk. I am a wildland fire fighter with the rappel program.
How long have you worn Missoula 2.1?
I have owned the boots for two years now.
How do Missoula 2.1 boots help you perform to your best in that environment?
I have a problem with finding boots in my size. My feet are small and wide. I found that getting a pair of Missoulas was the first boot manufactured to take that into consideration and support small size feet. They are lightweight and make long days in boots not feel as exhausting. I pair them with my Haix socks, so my feet are happy with me. Even for field work I feel that the lightness and ankle structure allow me to work more ergonomically. They also have the Vibram sole which is required for our boots. Overall, they have been a game changer for me. Not having to have boots with multiple insoles and wide enough so my feet have space.
Can you share a story where your boots made a big difference?
I would say the boots have helped me with endurance, and when working long days, they have the support I need so my feet do not feel sluggish. Overall, I am very happy with my boots. I said to a coworker after shift, "I feel like my feet are in clouds". Comfortable and durable, with less time to break in than previous boots. I have never had a blister, and the tongue of the boot stays in place with the Velcro, never dismissing the integrity of the structure of the boot. I also have five pairs of the HAIX socks, which I keep for my deployments. They are light and fit very nicely. My feet don't get overly hot, and they dry fast. I highly enjoy putting my boots on knowing my feet won't get mad at me later.
Julia Kappeler
Rapattack Firefighter
British Columbia, CA
@juliakappeler on Instagram
What is your name and your job title?
Julia Kappeler, Rappel firefighter, crew member for the British Columbia Wildfire Service (BCWS), Rapattack.
How long have you owned/worn your Missoula 2.1s?
1 year (since spring 2024).
In what profession or situations do you wear your Missoula 2.1 boots?
I use these boots for work as a wildland firefighter. They're great for training, project work, air operations, hikes, burn ops, and firefighting.
How do Missoula 2.1s help you perform to your best in that environment?
These lightweight boots provide good grip and support on steep, slippery slopes while firefighting, and leave me with enough agility to move around our helicopters.
Can you share a story where your boots made a big difference?
These boots got me through long days on my feet during rappel recruit training without any blisters. Virtually no break-in period and incredibly comfortable throughout the entire wildfire season.
Chris Smead
Photographer
San Jose, CA
@csmeadphotography on Instagram
What is your name and job title?
My name is Chris Smead, and I am a wildfire photographer in San Jose, CA.
How long have you owned/worn your Missoula 2.1?
I have had the Missoulas for a year and use them frequently, as a large portion of this area requires wildland responses. I have hiked miles upon miles, and they still look brand new.
In what profession or situations do you wear your Missoula 2.1 boots?
I wear the Missoula boots during wildland fires and responses in Santa Clara County and throughout California.
How do Missoula 2.1s help you perform to your best in that environment?
I have owned a lot of boots, Redwing, Redhead, Wolverine, etc., and they all wear out incredibly fast. They provide little to no support, especially the more they are worn. The Missoulas are sturdy and light enough that they can be worn hours on end and still support me throughout my work. Whether up steep hills or crossing through streams, they never let me down.
Can you share a story where your boots made a big difference?
When a fire breaks out, you never know what to expect. The terrain, hazards, and access routes are all variables until you arrive on the scene. San Jose Fire was responding to a large vegetation fire deep in the hills, accessible only via a long dirt road followed by a hike to the fire location. I loaded my gear, put on my boots, and set off with little preparation. I spent hours on site documenting the situation and hiking with the crews throughout the fire area. By the time I returned to the rig, I was sweaty, tired, and hungry, but my feet were so comfortable that I almost forgot to change out of my gear. These boots have truly made a difference.
