Fdic2026 thankyou

Knowing Mercedes

FDIC 2026: 5 Takeaways We're Bringing Home

We’re back from FDIC International—and like every year, it delivered.

For those who made the trip to Indianapolis, you already know. For those who couldn’t, here’s a quick look at what stood out most to us this year.

1. The energy is unmatched

From the show floor to the street demos, the passion for the job is real.

It’s driven by something bigger—the brotherhood of the fire service. The shared pride, the willingness to learn, and the commitment to getting better together.

The inside booth at FDIC26
The energy right before the floor opens is palpable... we were so ready for you guys!

2. Thank you for showing up

Whether you stopped by the booth, stretched lines with us outside, or took time to talk shop—we appreciate it.

Getting hands on hose together, sharing ideas, and learning from each other is what this week is all about.

You showed up – inside & outside!
We were so excited to have an outdoor flow zone this year – and you guys rocked it! It really does make a difference to get your hands on the line.

3. The learning never stops

FDIC is one of the few places where education never really turns off. From HOT classes to parking lot conversations, there’s always something to take back to your department.

We were proud to have our lines in the mix—being used, discussed, and pushed in real training environments—and to be part of that ongoing exchange of knowledge.

Watch Kevin Pfluger talk about the benefits of KrakenEXO SUPER II or Capt. Caleb Langer explain the difference between KrakenEXO & ExoMetro.

We also loving seeing fire service innovation in action, and we have some to share with you in the upcoming weeks!

HOT at FDIC
We were grateful to have our lines on the ground at some of the great HOT classes on Monday & Tuesday, including Nozzlemanship & the Lineboss Leadership as well as the Hose & Nozzle Lab

4. LPX made a serious impact

This year’s LPX launch exceeded expectations.

Departments across North America told us they’re looking for ways to simplify their attack package, reduce fatigue, and operate effectively with fewer hands.

LPX was built for exactly that—developed alongside (and at the request of) a big urban department—and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with departments to refine and evolve it.

Getting hands-on let firefighters feel the difference.

The Flow Zone
Being outside flowing was awesome... And we had our kickass hosebed prop to show off the packability of our lines!

5. It really is a family reunion

One of the best parts of FDIC is reconnecting.

From great companies like HEN Nozzles, Notorious Fire, Next Rung, Rescue1 CBD, Crafty American, et al—to respected leaders like Lt. Ray McCormack, Chief DJ Stone, and so many more—to the into-the-job firefighters from small rural departments grinding it out every day…

Every one of you matters to us.

Family Reunion!
The people are what make FDIC. We love seeing everyone, including our own team!

See it for yourself

We captured a lot from the week—hands-on training, conversations, and time spent with some of the best in the job. We're still processing all the footage, so keep checking our socials for updates!

WATCH OUR FDIC26 PLAYLIST ON YOUTUBE

Until next year

FDIC always feels like a reset and a reminder of why we do this. We’re grateful to be a small part of this community—and even more grateful for the trust you place in our hose.

Stay safe. Stay sharp. Keep pushing. #BELEGENDARY




Love is a word I dare not diminish. Built with intention, care and respect by Bryce Kirk