Mastering the Art of Lacing Your Wildland Fire Boots: Step-by-Step Guide

Video: How to Lace Your Boots - Instructional Guide

As a wildland firefighter, your boots are more than just footwear; they're an integral part of your gear that can significantly impact your comfort and performance. Lacing your boots correctly is not just a matter of style; it's about ensuring maximum support, comfort, and durability. Today, we're diving into a simple yet effective method to lace your boots, as demonstrated in our instructional video.

Getting Started with the Basics

1. Prepare Your Laces: Ensure that your laces are even in length. Uneven laces can cause discomfort and affect the fit of your boots.

2. Position the False Tongue (Fall Son): Place the false tongue in the center of the boot. This helps in protecting the front of your leg from the pressure of the laces.

3. Begin Lacing: Start lacing from the inside of the boot, moving hole by hole. It’s essential to lace from the inside as it provides a cleaner look and better durability.

Securing the Boot

4. Fold the Tongue: Once the lacing reaches the top, fold the tongue from the outside in. This method ensures that the fold lasts longer and stays secure.

5. Tighten Each Row: Work row by row, tightening the laces for a snug fit. Ensure your heel is properly positioned in the boot before tightening.

6. The Two-by-Two Method: As you work your way up, hold two laces in one hand and lace two hooks at a time. This technique makes the process quicker and more efficient.

Optional Method: The 2-1-3 Lacing

7. Skip the First Hook: Instead of starting at the first hook, skip it and lace up to the second.

8. Back to the First: Now lace back down to the first hook on the opposite side.

9. Up to the Third: Continue the pattern by lacing up to the third hook.

10. Repeat: Continue this 2-1-3 pattern. This method offers increased flexibility, especially at the flex points, and can alleviate ankle bite issues.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you’re gearing up for a demanding shift or a training session, properly laced boots can significantly impact your comfort and performance. The 2-1-3 method, in particular, can be a game-changer for many, offering flexibility and reducing discomfort around the ankle area.

We hope this guide, along with our video tutorial, helps you lace your wildland fire boots more effectively. Remember, the right lacing technique can make a world of difference in how your boots support and protect your feet during those challenging days on the field.