From structural to wildland-fire environments, the unpredictable and relentless nature of fire makes it imperative that a firefighter's protective clothing and equipment can handle the most severe situations. Fire-resistant materials are necessary when firefighters are on the job, but the importance of stationwear often can be overlooked. While stationwear generally is designed to be worn around the station and underneath turnout gear, the performance and protection it needs to provide should not be taken for granted. It is imperative that fire departments choose quality flame-resistant protective materials for stationwear that perform well as a single-layer garment and as part of the turnout system.

When evaluating gear for purchasing decisions, fire departments often evaluate based on three major concerns: cost, comfort and safety.

Cost. As more fire departments continue to cut budgets and the growing concern over economic stability remains, cost is a major issue. Lower-cost garments made from cotton or cotton blends may have a wear life of as little as one year. However, stationwear made of inherently flame-resistant materials can last anywhere from three to five years when properly maintained. Some fire departments may find it difficult to justify some of the higher costs up front, but the durability and longevity of flame-resistant materials make them more cost-efficient in the long run. Flame-resistant fibers will continue to maintain their durability, appearance and wearable life, while others may begin to fade and wear out at a much quicker pace.

Comfort. Comfort is a key factor in the selection of any garment. Stationwear should be lightweight, breathable, wick moisture and dry quickly. Cotton garments offer excellent moisture absorption, but when saturated with water they retard the transfer of heat from the body. Flame-resistant fabrics are treated to improve wicking and dry much faster, improving the breathability while improving thermal insulation in layered systems. Heat stress is a continuing challenge to firefighting, and all garment elements should be chosen to maximize protection and breathability.

Safety. Of all the criteria to consider when purchasing stationwear, safety is the most often overlooked. It is critical for firefighters to understand that stationwear fabrics can either be additive, neutral or detrimental to the thermal protection of their turnout system. The traditional polyester/cotton blends are not NFPA 1975-compliant, because they have the potential to melt when exposed to extreme heat and may increase the severity of burn injuries. One-hundred-percent cotton garments are compliant as they will not melt; however, they have the potential for ignition if the primary protective garment is compromised.

While the three core components used to evaluate gear are most important, fire departments also are evaluating trends in fabric technology in order to make advancements in stationwear. As companies are always looking to make upgrades and improvements, there are other factors that are starting to play an important role in purchasing decisions. Suppliers are listening to the demands of fire departments; for example, they are noting the increasing interest in antimicrobial material and the desire for cross-functional use.

Manufacturers and suppliers also are starting to look to sports gear for inspiration. There is an interest in finding how to take the moisture management features in athletic apparel and apply them to flame resistant materials. This is still an ongoing learning process for the industry and there is more information and testing that needs to be done. Testing and development will ensure that the designs eventually will meet industry standards and still be a comfortable and functional product.

Finally, manufacturers are looking to refresh the design of traditional stationwear to give clothes a more modern look and feel. New offerings include design features like cargo pockets, which are aesthetically pleasing but also serve a functional purpose. There also is a move to a more casual look rather than creased and pleated uniforms and the more traditional, professional attire. Purchasers are looking for more casual and cross-functional wear that meets standards across all types of fire services. This way, one garment can do multiple jobs, which is not only convenient but also more cost-efficient.

Across the board, better education is still needed when it comes to the importance and use of fire-resistant stationwear. As new products are emerging and trends are moving to lighter, more efficient and cross-functional materials, it will be imperative to keep educating those in the fire service about the importance of safety. Being equipped with the right materials can make all the difference in preventing injuries. And in this industry, no steps to improve safety should be overlooked.

• Read the main story, "What to Wear," to learn how stationwear fibers and fabrics meet ever-changing firefighter needs.