LIFESTYLE
Firefighter Launches Uniform Brand Featuring PFAS-Free Nomex Gear At Affordable Prices
FILO Apparel
A longtime Florida federal firefighter and EMT is on a mission to provide safe, fire-resistant and affordable uniforms with the launch of FILO Apparel.
The brand was born out of frustration when shopping for my own uniforms, said FILO Apparel co-founder and vice president of sales Sean Conant, who has served as a firefighter and first responder for 18 years.
My annual uniform stipend barely covered a couple pairs of pants and a shirt, and I had to wait a month or more for them to arrive. Then they had to be tailored to fit correctly. I decided our first responders deserve better, Conant said.
FILO stands for First In, Last Out, a firefighter motto signifying their commitment to risk their lives to save others.
The brand specializes in PFAS-free Nomex pants, shirts and shorts for both men and women. PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, is a group of extremely hazardous, synthetic, indestructible chemicals found in some Nomex products. Nomex is a flame-resistant fiber that can stand up to high temperatures without melting or supporting combustion, developed by DuPont.
FILO notes that studies have shown PFAS are linked to liver damage, thyroid disease, developmental issues, reduced fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression, and cancer.
Firefighters have enough to worry about on the job; they shouldn’t have to wonder if their uniforms are going to create debilitating health issues, Conant said. As we were sourcing materials and developing our manufacturing operations, it was extremely important that we use safe, PFAS-free Nomex.
The women’s fire-resistant pants and shirts are among the brand’s most popular sellers, offering an alternative for female first responders who have been stuck with boxy styles designed for men.
When I tell you these are the best women’s Nomex pants I’ve tried on, I mean it, said Jackie Krych, a firefighter and paramedic in Ohio. I’ve been really struggling to find a fit that looks professional but feminine, and these pants meet both of those needs! I was able to comfortably sit, squat, crawl, and move in the FILO Nomex which I couldn’t do in the previous brands I’ve tried.
FILO Apparel says its firefighter uniforms cost up to 56% less than those found at conventional uniform suppliers, and its uniforms feature customizable name tapes and badge holders. FILO also offers faster shipping, with free inseam tailoring for pants.
Individual firefighters can order FILO Apparel uniforms at filoapparel.com, while stations or departments can place bulk orders by emailing sales@filoapparel.com.
TMX contributed to this article.
