Innovation: How Globe Produces the
World’s Best Turnout Gear
Firefighter safety is our mission, not just our business.
For nearly 125 years, this family-owned company has had an unswerving commitment to R&D. Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Globe’s business. Globe invented turnout gear in 1887, and invented and patented the original construction concept of a rugged outer shell and the waterproof liner that is still used today. Globe also was the first to introduce DuPont NOMEX® flame resistant material, GORE-TEX® and CROSSTECH® moisture barrier and 3M SCOTCHLITE™ reflective material; and the firm participated in setting the National Fire Protection Association standards and was the first manufacturer to be ISO 9001 certified.
We continue to lead the way in state-of-the-science product development, thanks to our experienced in-house design team, our partnerships with university and government researchers, and the commitment of Globe's owners, the Freese Family.
Our design team has extensive fire service expertise, as well as a wealth of product development experience in technical clothing and footwear for marine, outdoor, team sports, law enforcement and fire/rescue applications. Our team leverages this with external resources including leading edge technical textile developers and outside design talent experienced in activewear, the outdoor industry and gloves.
We have partnered with:
- North Carolina State University (TSWG) on the studies, “Lightweight CBRN Protective Fire Fighter Turnout,” “Enhanced Performance Tactical CB Boot,” and “Whole Glove Testing Technologies”
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute (DHS/FEMA/AFG) on “Integrated Firefighter Locator and Physiological Monitor” and the Fireground Environmental Sensor Monitor System.
- Skidmore College (DHS/FEMA/AFG) on the studies, “Effect of Physical Fitness on Physiological Recovery from Firefighting Duties” and “Improving Structural Firefighting Gear – From the Inside Out”
- US Army/NPC on the “Wearable Advanced Sensor Platform” (WASP)
