Why Non-PFAS Turnout Gear Matters

Firefighters face increasing concerns about PFAS chemicals in turnout gear. Chief Kevin Quinn—a fire service leader with 50+ years of experience and recipient of the CFSI Mason Lankford Award—was initially skeptical about non-PFAS gear. His doubts? Durability, comfort, and performance.

“I was hearing a lot of negative things—poor lifespan, lack of comfort, compromised functionality,” Quinn recalls. “I needed to see for myself.”

Testing Ricochet Gear in Real Fire Conditions

Through a trusted industry contact, Quinn secured Ricochet Non-PFAS turnout gear and tested it in his department’s Class A burn building. The results were clear:

“I’ve been in this business for 50 years. I’ve worn everything. Ricochet exceeded every expectation.”

Superior Thermal Protection Under Extreme Heat

Quinn pushed the gear beyond normal limits. Even under extreme heat conditions, Ricochet gear held strong.

• Durability: “Even after deliberate abuse, it wasn’t compromised.”
• Comfort: “As comfortable as any gear I’ve worn.”

One test was telling: Quinn stood in a controlled burn room while another firefighter in traditional gear had to crawl out within seconds. Ricochet’s thermal protection proved unmatched.

Comfort and Mobility Firefighters Need

“Ricochet nailed it. It feels right—it moves with you. It’s part of you, and that matters.”

Setting a New Standard for Firefighter Safety

Quinn believes Ricochet gear is the future:

“If my crews had Ricochet gear, they’d be in a safer product. It meets the highest standards for durability, functionality, and performance.”

He now uses Ricochet gear exclusively—even taking it to Kenya for firefighter training.

“I donated my old gear. That says a lot.”

Ricochet: Ahead of the Curve

“Ricochet is ahead of the curve. This is a message that needs to get out.”

With non-PFAS innovation, proven durability, and unmatched comfort, Ricochet turnout gear isn’t just an option—it’s the future of firefighter protection.