INTERSCHUTZ 2026: GORE-TEX® EXTRAGUARD UPPER TECHNOLOGY KEEPS FIREFIGHTER BOOTS DRY, LIGHT, AND COMFORTABLE EVEN IN EXTREMELY WET CONDITIONS
THE EXTRAGUARD UPPER TECHNOLOGY IN THE NEW HAIX FIRE EAGLE 3.0 EXG IS LIGHTER THAN CONVENTIONAL MATERIALS AND SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES WATER ABSORPTION. FIREFIGHTING BOOTS THEN STAY LIGHTWEIGHT ALSO IN WET CONDITIONS, DRY QUICKLY, AND REMAIN COMFORTABLE TO WEAR DURING LONG OPERATIONS.
Putzbrunn, June 1, 2026 – Wet conditions are a daily reality for firefighters. Their boots get heavier when wet and reduce insulation against the cold. This significantly reduces comfort and increases physical strain, especially during long and physically demanding operations. Tests conducted in GORE-TEX® laboratories have shown that water absorption in boots in wet conditions can lead to a noticeable increase in weight, depending on the upper material and boot design.
HAIX, a manufacturer of functional footwear and apparel, is introducing its new Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG with EXTRAGUARD upper material at INTERSCHUTZ 2026. The upper technology developed by the GORE-TEX® brand significantly reduces water absorption in the boots, thereby speeding up the drying process after use. This enables a lighter overall construction with fewer additional reinforcements, improving mobility and comfort when in use, especially during extended wear in wet conditions.
“The EXTRAGUARD upper technology was developed to permanently reduce water absorption, so firefighter boots remain lightweight even in extremely wet conditions,” explains Johannes Krieg, Footwear Product Specialist at the GORE-TEX® brand.
Minimal weight gain in wet conditions
EXTRAGUARD upper technology combines a durable, flame-retardant outer layer, an insulating functional layer, and a structural inner layer that absorbs hardly any water. The multi-layer system minimizes the boot’s weight gain in wet conditions.
The robust upper material ensures easy maintenance and cleaning, requiring only simple rinsing or wiping. No extra care with shoe polish is necessary.
Together with the proven GORE-TEX® CROSSTECH® lining technology, the boot provides lasting protection against water penetration, chemicals, and bloodborne pathogens while remaining breathable.
Further development of the HAIX Fire Eagle platform
Firefighter athletes also value EXTRAGUARD technology—especially during long and physically intense activities: “In disciplines like obstacle courses or stair climbing, every ounce of extra weight counts,” says Robin Altbürger, reigning German champion of the FireFit Championships and tester of the Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG. “Even in wet conditions, the boot remains lightweight, making it noticeably more agile and comfortable to wear. A consistently high level of speed and agility can then be maintained, especially for quick changes of direction, navigating steps, or during prolonged physical exertion.”
HAIX’s Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG draws on the experience gained from the Fire Eagle 2.0 EXG predecessor model. In addition to the version with EXTRAGUARD upper material, it is also available with classic leather upper material and GORE-TEX® CROSSTECH® lining.
The HAIX Fire Eagle 3.0 EXG will be presented at the GORE-TEX® (W. L. Gore & Associates) booth D32 in Hall 15, as well as at the HAIX booth H47 in Hall 15, and in the outdoor area at booth R84.
About Gore’s Fabrics
Gore’s fabrics business pioneered the first waterproof, windproof and breathable GORE TEX® Product 50 years ago, leading the way for the technical, high-performance apparel industry and setting a new standard for performance apparel, footwear and accessories. Today, we continue to advance material innovation with technical apparel, footwear and accessories solutions that deliver trusted protection, comfort and durability across consumer, defense, safety and professional applications. Our portfolio includes leading brands such as the GORE TEX® Brand and SITKA® Brand, each built on deep scientific expertise and a commitment to responsible, high performance design. gore-tex.com and goretexprofessional.com
About Gore
W. L. Gore & Associates is a global materials science company dedicated to transforming industries and improving lives. Since 1958, Gore has solved complex technical challenges in demanding environments—from outer space to the world’s highest peaks to the inner workings of the human body. With more than 13,000 Associates and a strong, team-oriented culture, Gore generates annual revenues of $5 billion. gore.com.