Holík Expands the Firra® Range with Chainsaw Protection – Adding Just 50 Grams

Holík International introduces the new Firra® Chainsaw (CH), expanding its Firra® firefighting footwear range with certified chainsaw cut protection rated at Level 2 (ISO 17249:2013). Compared to the standard version, the cut-resistant construction adds only 50 grams per boot (size 42, Firra LT CH variant). In the segment of firefighting chainsaw-protective footwear, this represents an exceptionally low weight increase.

 

The development of the new model reflects the changing nature of modern firefighting operations. Today, firefighters use chainsaws increasingly often not only during technical rescue interventions, but also when dealing with the aftermath of windstorms and severe weather events, as well as during wildland fire operations, where they create firebreaks or remove hazardous trees. In such situations, high-quality cut-resistant footwear plays a vital role as part of personal protective equipment.

Traditionally, this type of footwear has been associated with increased weight and reduced flexibility. Reinforcement designed to withstand contact with a chainsaw chain typically results in a more robust construction. During extended operations, this translates into greater fatigue and reduced freedom of movement for firefighters. The new Firra® Chainsaw takes a different approach—retaining the lightweight and flexible character of firefighting footwear while still delivering Level 2 certified protection.

Firra® Chainsaw: When cut protection doesn't mean a heavier boot

“From the very beginning, we knew we did not want to simply add cut protection. Our goal was to preserve the lightness and comfort firefighters have come to expect from the Firra® range. That is why we developed our own construction solution, enabling us to meet the Level 2 certification requirements while keeping weight gain to an absolute minimum,” said Ilona Krupková, Footwear Development Director at Holík International. All-day comfort is ensured through a combination of advanced features.

 

Only 50 grams more

Cut-resistant footwear is usually bulkier, heavier, and less flexible. The protective layer that resists contact with a chainsaw chain typically comes at the cost of added weight.

With Firra® Chainsaw, we took a different approach. Thanks to our proprietary boot construction, we achieved Chainsaw Protection Class 2 while adding just 50 grams per boot (size 42, Firra® LT CH version).

For the full-leather version, the difference compared to the non-cut-resistant model is only 100 grams per boot.

These are exceptionally low weight increases for cut-resistant firefighting footwear, allowing firefighters to benefit from certified chainsaw protection without compromising comfort, flexibility, or all-day wearability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Firra® Chainsaw in the full-leather version (left) and the leather/textile version (right).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comfort remains a priority

All-day comfort remains a priority. It is achieved through the combination of several proprietary technologies.

The ErgoFIT Pro system features full upper padding complemented by a soft, ergonomically shaped top collar that helps prevent pressure points during extended wear. Flexible zones in the front, sides, and rear of the boot preserve the natural movement of the foot despite the integrated cut-resistant layer.

Fast and effortless donning is ensured by the combination of the QuickZip system and the large GRIP System pull tabs, allowing easy handling even while wearing firefighting gloves.

A personalized fit is provided by AdaptFIT Insole Technology, offering three interchangeable anatomical insoles for different instep heights. At the same time, the TrueFOOT LAST, developed from anthropometric measurements of professional firefighters' feet, provides ample space for both the toes and heel, ensuring lasting comfort throughout the day.

 

Available in Two Versions

The new Firra® Chainsaw is available through authorized firefighting equipment distributors in two versions: Firra® TX CH, featuring a leather/textile upper, and Firra® LT CH, the full-leather version.

Despite offering certified Chainsaw Protection Class 2, the new models are priced only slightly above the standard Firra® range, making professional cut protection more accessible without compromising comfort or performance.

Firra® Chainsaw boots are now available through firefighting equipment distributors in the Czech Republic and are manufactured in sizes 33–53.