The Commercial Item Description A-A-50371C, updated June 10, 2024, outlines requirements for firemen's boots for federal agencies, superseding the 2001 version. It covers two types: Type I (three-quarter length for shipboard damage control) and Type II (knee-length for fire protective gear). Both types must meet NFPA 1971 standards (with exceptions) and feature vulcanized construction, a steel box toe, spike-resistant insole, slip-resistant outsole, and shin reinforcement. Specific material compositions and physical properties for upper compounds, sole/heel compounds, and linings (para-aramid/aramid blends) are detailed. Metal parts like steel box toes, buckles (for Type I), and shanks also have defined specifications. Boots undergo leakage and safety box toe tests, and must be marked with size and contractual information, including a bar-coded National Stock Number and UPC symbol. The document encourages using recovered, recycled, and environmentally preferable materials and lists quality assurance provisions, including market acceptance criteria and defect identification. It also provides sources for government and non-government documents, intended use information, ordering data, and a known supplier (LaCrosse Footwear, Inc.).
The document outlines a Commercial Item Description (CID) for firemen's boots, specifically designated for use by federal agencies. It differentiates between Type I boots, intended for damage control personnel in shipboard environments with three-quarter length design, and Type II boots, which are knee-length and designed to be worn with protective gear. The specification details material requirements, including upper compounds, sole and heel compounds, and specific safety features such as steel toe, shanks, and shin reinforcements.
The document also emphasizes the importance of compliance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and includes quality assurance provisions that necessitate proof of conformance to specifications. Additional considerations for packaging, marking, and regulatory compliance regarding the use of environmentally friendly materials are emphasized.
This CID serves as a critical reference for contractors and suppliers in responding to federal RFPs and grants, ensuring that firemen's boots meet safety and performance standards for federal usage.
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is conducting a market research survey for acquiring Firemen's Boots (Type II, Knee), with an aim of enhancing support for military customers globally. The DLA plans to issue a solicitation in August 2025 for a one-year Firm-Fixed Price contract, with an estimated annual requirement of 3,890 pairs. The survey seeks industry input on procurement strategies, including the number of contracts needed and potential competition trends. Respondents are requested to provide company information, manufacturing capabilities, and pricing details. This inquiry does not solicit formal bids but aims to assess capabilities and develop an effective acquisition strategy. Only specified non-domestic boot models are accepted, and the maximum contract value is capped at $7.5 million. The proposed acquisition approach emphasizes competition to foster a viable industrial base and includes evaluation factors like price and past performance. Companies must submit their feedback by August 7, 2025, to assist the DLA in finalizing its requirements and strategies. The document outlines relevant procurement guidelines and emphasizes compliance with federal regulations regarding the sourcing of materials.