1 Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Insight Analysis
The global Firefighter Turnout Gear market size was valued at USD 1,959.03 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 4.61% from 2024 to 2033.
Firefighter turnout gear, also known as bunker gear in some instances, is the personal protective equipment (PPE) firefighters wear when working with fires. These fires are so high in temperature that firefighters must wear specially designed-clothing that can stand up to the heat. Modern turnout gear for firefighters utilizes the three-layer system consisting of an outer shell, moisture barrier, and a one-, two- or three-layer thermal barrier that protects the firefighter’s body from extreme heat.
The product scope of turnout gear includes coats, trousers, boots, helmets, hoods, gloves, jackets, or to the entire combination of protective clothing. In addition, the combination of modern triple-layer turnout gear with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), personal alert safety system (PASS) device, and modern communications equipment made it more feasible and survivable to enter burning buildings.
Figure Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
In terms of driving factors, the first is the increasing importance of firefighter protective equipment. Firefighters work in extremely dangerous environments, and protective equipment is the key to ensuring their life safety. For example, layered thermal protective clothing can effectively reduce heat penetration, and various types of protective equipment can protect various parts of the body from injury. As people pay more attention to fire safety, the demand for high-quality, high-performance protective equipment continues to increase, which has become the core driving force for market growth.
Secondly, the increase in fire accidents such as wildfires around the world has driven the development of the market. Climate change has led to frequent extreme weather events, and the frequency and scale of wildfires have continued to expand, such as wildfires in Australia and the Amazon region. This has led to a sharp increase in demand for firefighter protective equipment, and countries have stepped up their procurement efforts to enhance the protection capabilities of firefighting teams and meet the needs of dealing with complex fire situations.
Furthermore, technological advances and the application of smart fabrics have provided strong support for market growth. The development of new fabrics has made protective equipment more comfortable, lightweight, and have better heat dissipation performance while having basic functions such as fire prevention and heat insulation. For example, some equipment uses smart fabrics that can automatically adjust the temperature according to environmental changes, improve the wearing experience and work efficiency of firefighters, and thus stimulate market demand.
However, the market growth also faces many limiting factors. On the one hand, the burden of firefighters’ protective equipment is more prominent. The whole set of equipment is heavy, which will affect the firefighters’ flexibility, increase fatigue, reduce work efficiency, and may even increase the risk of injury. For example, studies have shown that the equipment will reduce the metabolic efficiency of firefighters and impair their maximum work endurance, which to a certain extent limits the willingness of some personnel to use the equipment.
On the other hand, the cancer risks brought by chemicals such as PFAS have brought huge challenges to market development. PFAS compounds are widely used in firefighting equipment, but studies have found that they are bioaccumulative and may cause firefighters to have a significantly increased risk of cancer. This has triggered a large number of lawsuits and caused firefighters to worry about the use of related equipment, which has limited the growth of the market to a certain extent. At the same time, it takes a lot of time and money to develop alternative products to reduce the risks of PFAS, which also brings cost pressure to companies.
3 Technological Innovations in the Firefighter Turnout Gear Market
Technological innovation is prominent in the market. First, material innovation is a key area. The application of high-performance fiber materials such as Kevlar and Nomex has significantly improved the fireproof, heat-insulating and wear-resistant properties of protective equipment. In addition, the research and development of smart fabrics has also made progress. Some fabrics can realize real-time monitoring of the physical condition of firefighters, such as monitoring heart rate, body temperature and other indicators, and timely feedback to the command center, providing more comprehensive protection for the safety of firefighters.
Secondly, design innovation optimizes the use experience of equipment. Modern protective equipment pays more attention to ergonomics in design. For example, the design of some fire helmets and gloves is more in line with the human body structure, reducing discomfort when wearing and improving operational flexibility. At the same time, the functional integration of equipment is also constantly improving, such as integrating communication equipment, positioning systems, etc. into protective clothing, which makes it easier for firefighters to keep in touch and determine their location in complex environments.
Corporate mergers and acquisitions also occur frequently in the market. For example, MSA Safety acquired Bacharach, Inc., which has a leading position in gas detection technology. Through this acquisition, MSA Safety was able to expand its product line and enter the HVAC-R market, enhancing its comprehensive competitiveness in the field of safety equipment. Honeywell acquired US Digital Designs, Inc. to strengthen its capabilities in the field of public safety communications. By integrating the latter’s technology, it provides firefighters with more efficient emergency response solutions and enhances its strength in the fire protection and connected life safety system business.
4 Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size by Type
In 2024, the market revenue is distributed across several key types of firefighter turnout gear, each playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of firefighting operations. Bunker coats and pants, which are essential for providing comprehensive thermal protection, are expected to generate a revenue of $638.65 million USD. These garments are designed to withstand high temperatures and protect firefighters from heat and flames, featuring multiple layers including an outer shell, moisture barrier, and thermal liner. Their significant revenue contribution reflects their critical importance in firefighting operations.
Fire helmets and hoods, which protect firefighters’ heads and necks from heat, falling debris, and other hazards, are projected to contribute $763.29 million USD to the market revenue in 2024. These items are essential for ensuring the safety of firefighters in both building and non-building firefighting scenarios, providing crucial head protection and overall safety.
Structural gloves, designed to protect firefighters’ hands from heat, cuts, and punctures, are expected to generate a revenue of $126.03 million USD. These gloves are essential for maintaining dexterity while providing necessary protection, ensuring that firefighters can perform their duties safely and effectively. The revenue from structural gloves underscores their importance in hand safety during firefighting operations.
Fire boots, which protect firefighters’ feet and lower legs from a variety of hazards, are projected to contribute $233.14 million USD to the market revenue in 2024. These boots are designed with features such as non-slip soles, impact-resistant support, and water resistance, making them indispensable for firefighters working in challenging environments.
Table Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Bunker Coats & Pants | 638.65 |
Fire Helmets & Hoods | 763.29 |
Structural Gloves | 126.03 |
Fire Boots | 233.14 |
Others | 197.91 |
5 Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size by Application
For Building Firefighting, it is the dominant application segment in terms of revenue. In 2024, the revenue from building firefighting turnout gear is expected to be 1501.33 million US dollars. This significant figure can be attributed to several factors. Buildings, whether residential, commercial, or industrial, are constantly at risk of fires. As urbanization continues to progress, the number of buildings is increasing globally.
Each building requires a certain amount of firefighting equipment, including turnout gear for firefighters. Moreover, building fires often involve complex environments such as high – rise structures, large – scale shopping malls, and densely populated residential areas. These scenarios demand high – quality and reliable turnout gear to ensure the safety of firefighters as they navigate through potentially hazardous situations like smoke – filled corridors, collapsing structures, and intense heat sources.
On the other hand, the Non – building Firefighting segment also contributes substantially to the overall market revenue. In 2024, the revenue for non – building firefighting turnout gear is estimated to be 457.69 million US dollars. Non – building firefighting scenarios include wildfires, forest fires, and fires in open – air industrial facilities. Wildfires, in particular, have been on the rise in recent years due to climate change, leading to an increased demand for appropriate turnout gear.
Firefighters dealing with non – building fires face unique challenges such as long – duration operations in harsh outdoor environments, exposure to extreme weather conditions, and the need for mobility over large areas. Therefore, the turnout gear for this application needs to be designed with features like lightweight materials for easy movement, enhanced protection against environmental elements like strong winds and intense sunlight, and durability to withstand rough terrains.
Table Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Building Firefighting | 1501.33 |
Non-building Firefighting | 457.69 |
6 Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size by Region
North America, which includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is a significant market for firefighter turnout gear. In 2024, the region is projected to generate a revenue of $847.13 million USD. The United States, in particular, is a major driver of this market due to its large number of professional firefighting departments and high demand for advanced protective gear. The market in North America is characterized by a high level of technological sophistication, with a focus on innovation and the integration of advanced materials and smart fabrics. The region also benefits from stringent safety regulations and a strong emphasis on firefighter safety, which drives the demand for high-quality turnout gear.
Europe is another key market for firefighter turnout gear, with a projected revenue of $391.25 million USD in 2024. The region includes countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain, which have well-established firefighting services and a high demand for protective gear. European markets are known for their focus on quality and compliance with stringent safety standards. The region also benefits from a strong tradition of manufacturing high-quality textiles and protective materials, which supports the production of advanced turnout gear. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of wildfires in some parts of Europe is driving the demand for specialized gear designed to protect firefighters in these challenging conditions.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to generate a revenue of $554.49 million USD in 2024. This region includes countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Australia, each with its own unique market dynamics. China, in particular, is a rapidly growing market due to its increasing urbanization and industrialization, which are driving the demand for firefighter turnout gear. Japan and South Korea are also significant markets, characterized by a high level of technological sophistication and a focus on innovation. The region as a whole is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing awareness of firefighter safety and the need for advanced protective gear to address the challenges posed by wildfires and other hazards.
South America is projected to contribute $107.87 million USD to the global firefighter turnout gear market in 2024. The region includes countries such as Brazil and Argentina, which have significant firefighting needs due to their large land areas and diverse environments. The market in South America is characterized by a growing demand for high-quality protective gear, driven by increasing urbanization and the need to address the challenges posed by wildfires and other natural disasters. The region also benefits from a growing awareness of firefighter safety and the need for advanced protective equipment to ensure the well-being of first responders.
The Middle East and Africa region is expected to generate a revenue of $58.28 million USD in 2024. This region includes countries such as Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and South Africa, each with its own unique market dynamics. The market in this region is characterized by a growing demand for protective gear due to increasing urbanization and the need to address the challenges posed by wildfires and other natural disasters.
The region also benefits from a growing awareness of firefighter safety and the need for advanced protective equipment to ensure the well-being of first responders. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of industrial fires in some parts of the region is driving the demand for specialized gear designed to protect firefighters in these challenging conditions.
Figure Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Firefighter Turnout Gear Market Analysis by Major Players
MSA Safety
Company Profile:
MSA Safety, established in 1914, is a global leader in the development, manufacture, and supply of safety products designed to protect people and facility infrastructures. Headquartered in the USA, MSA Safety offers a comprehensive range of products used across various industries, including firefighting, construction, mining, and the military.
Business Overview:
MSA Safety’s product line includes self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, industrial head protection products, fire and rescue helmets, and fall protection devices. The company’s comprehensive offerings are used by workers worldwide, ensuring safety in hazardous environments.
Product Offered:
MSA Safety’s firefighter turnout gear includes the Globe ATHLETIX™ Jacket, designed with innovative material technology and unique stretch fabrics. This jacket provides an athletic fit, enhanced range of motion, and superior thermal protection, making it ideal for firefighters.
2023 Financial Summary:
In 2023, MSA Safety reported a revenue of $214.31 million USD from firefighter turnout gear sales. The company achieved a gross margin of 42.18%, reflecting its strong market position and efficient production processes.
Honeywell
Company Profile:
Honeywell, founded in 1885, is an American multinational company specializing in the production of electronic consumer products, engineering, and technical services, as well as aerospace systems. Headquartered in the USA, Honeywell operates worldwide, offering a wide range of safety and protective gear.
Business Overview:
Honeywell’s business segments include Aerospace, Automation Productivity, Safety, Sensors, Adsorbents and Catalysts, Industrial Chemicals and Materials, Solstice, Research Chemicals, Honeywell Forging, and Homeowner Products. The company’s safety division focuses on providing comprehensive protective solutions, including firefighter turnout gear.
Product Offered:
Honeywell’s firefighter turnout gear includes a wide range of safety gears such as helmets, hoods, gloves, boots, and multi-response gear. The company’s NFPA-certified products are designed to provide maximum safety, comfort, and mobility to firefighters.
2023 Financial Summary:
In 2023, Honeywell reported a revenue of $161.74 million USD from firefighter turnout gear sales. The company maintained a gross margin of 43.52%, demonstrating its strong market presence and commitment to high-quality products.
Dräger
Company Profile:
Dräger, founded in 1889, is a global leader in medical and safety technology products. Headquartered in Germany, Dräger operates in over 190 countries, providing solutions for hospitals, fire departments, emergency services, and industrial applications.
Business Overview:
Dräger’s product portfolio includes medical devices, safety technology products, and solutions for emergency response and industrial safety. The company is known for its innovative and reliable products, which are designed to protect, support, and save lives in various critical environments.
Product Offered:
Dräger’s firefighter turnout gear includes the PSS® 7000 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), which provides unmatched comfort, durability, and safety in harsh environments. The PSS® 7000 is designed with ergonomic features, making it easier for firefighters to concentrate on their tasks.
2023 Financial Summary:
In 2023, Dräger reported a revenue of $82.86 million USD from firefighter turnout gear sales. The company achieved a gross margin of 56.96%, highlighting its strong market position and efficient production processes.