PPE Straps: Replacement Kit Straps for an On-Call Firefighter

Some of my favourite bespoke projects are the practical ones: a real problem, a real job, and a piece of leather that has to earn its place. This commission from Dave, an on-call firefighter, was exactly that.

The job

On-call (retained) firefighters live their lives around the pager. When it goes off, they drop what they're doing, get to the station and get out of the door as fast as possible. Every second counts, so kit needs to be exactly where it should be, stowed properly and ready to go.

Dave got in touch because the securing straps used to stow a structural firefighting tunic and an RTC (road traffic collision) jacket needed replacing. Dave wanted something that would hold the kit securely, stand up to daily use and last far longer than what was there before.

Built to Dave's spec

Dave sent me the exact measurements needed for each strap, along with one firm requirement: they had to fasten with snap poppers.

That makes complete sense. Snap poppers hold firmly while on the move, but they open with a single pull. When a call comes in, nobody wants to be fiddling with a buckle to get their kit free. Pop, grab and go.

So the brief for these straps was simple but demanding:

• Made to Dave's measurements, so they fit the kit and the stowage on the appliance properly.
• Hold the kit securely, so tunics and jackets stay put.
• Release in seconds thanks to snap popper fastenings.
• Take a beating: constant handling, weather, grime and years of use.

How they were made

1. Cut to size. Each strap was cut from full grain leather to Dave's measurements.
2. Doubled up. Each strap was then glued to a second layer of leather, doubling its thickness and strength. Straps that take this much daily pulling and handling need to be stiff, tough and resistant to stretching, and a double layer gives them exactly that.
3. Snap poppers fitted. With the straps at full thickness, the snap poppers were set in place for a secure hold and a fast release.
4. Personalised. Finally, each strap was laser engraved with Dave's name, Service number and surname, so there's no mistaking whose kit it was.

Every step was done by hand in my Norfolk workshop.

Built to be used

This is the kind of work I love doing. It isn't about decoration. It's about making something that does its job reliably, every time, for people who can't afford for their kit to let them down. Full grain leather is ideal for this: it's hard-wearing, it holds its shape, and it develops a patina that shows years of honest service.

Thank you, Dave, for trusting me with this one, and to all on-call firefighters for everything you do for your communities.

Fire service kit and bespoke work

I've got a real soft spot for making gear for the fire service. If you're after something off the shelf, take a look at my Firefighter Essentials collection. If you need something made to fit your own kit, station or appliance, send me your measurements and requirements through my bespoke projects page and we'll work out the best solution together.