The countdown to FDIC 2026 is on – and we're FIRED UP for another legendary week! Find us inside at Booth #4269 / #4268 AND outside in the Flow Zone #16521. Let's dive into what's on with Mercedes this year...
WHAT'S NEW IN 2026?
A LOT! This year we're excited to launch two new technologies AND two new tools for KnowYourHose.com. We're proving Innovation Delivered is more than just a tagline and we're Leading with Precision. Here's what we've got for you:
LPX Technology: We've been teasing this out all over socials and in our latest article, but ICYMI... We're evolving small diameter lines for low pressure attack. Our new patent-pending LPX (Low Pressure eXpansion) Technology reinforces the nozzle-end of small diameter hose to minimize whip & kinking for increased control without sacrificing the lightweight packability & maneuverability of the rest of the line.
We've integrated this tech into the KrakenEXO LPX 1 1/2" and ExoMetro LPX 1 3/4" to deliver 150-160 GPM flows at 50-75 PSI with up to 30% less weight. We're talking light & agile attack packages that prioritize speed & control. We'll publish detailed specs & more closer to FDIC.
RFiDENTIFY Couplings: Our patented WAYOUT couplings have always included our recessed iDENTIFY slots, but to deliver on a request from our friends at Baltimore Fire, we've upgraded them to hold RFID-enabled tracking labels. These labels allow quick inventory capture of all packed lines just by walking around the hosebed. They're recessed & epoxy sealed to ensure durability and can be integrated into different systems. It's simple, yet effective game changer for large departments like Baltimore. We're proud to be showing it off at FDIC.
KYH Hose Bed Capacity Calculator: We've had this request a few times since launching KYH – so we heard you, and we're delivering. This new tool will help you estimate the amount of hose that will fit in your tray. Select the hose line & size. Provide the tray dimensions and preferred line length. Then we'll do the math to determine how many feet of hose should fit. We're hoping this helps departments when planning their new engines or spec'ing new lines.
KYH Compare Specs: Our Hose Spec Library has been a huge success since launch. It's an easy, accessible way to find anything you need to Know Your Hose. But we wanted to make it even easier if you're looking to compare lines or pull multiple options at once. Now you can select up to three hose & sizes to see their specs side-by-side. Simple tool, big help.
Both these technologies are targeted innovations designed to address a need in the fire service, and both tools were developed to continue making sure we make it easy for you to Know Your Hose. Be sure to stop by the booth to get all the details AND enter the Legendary Giveaway!
CAN I GET HANDS ON?
Heck yes! In fact, we want you to get hands-on to feel LPX Technology in action – so much so, that you'll earn a limited-edition challenge coin when you visit our Flow Zone #16521 to flow or participate in one of our demo & discussions.
We'll be out flowing all day Thurs, Friday, and Saturday and we've set aside specific times to have our Demo Crew experts talk about specific topics. Official schedule will be updated the week of FDIC.
- LEADING WITH PRECISION – LPX Technology Demo & Discussion
- RIGHT SIZING YOUR SUPPLY – Modern Supply Strategies
- FIGHT THE FIRE, NOT THE HOSE – KrakenEXO SUPER II vs. 2.5"
- PACKS PRETTY, PULLS PRETTY – Talking Packability & Hose Bed Capacity
PLUS – MORE WAYS TO GET HANDS-ON:
We also have our KrakenEXO lines in some HOT classes and out with our friends at HEN Nozzles' flow zone too!
- Nozzlemanship and LineBoss Leadership with Lt. Ray McCormack –If you’re signed up for this HOT class on Monday & Tuesday, you’ll be advancing the line with KrakenEXO under the guidance of one of the best. "The leadership portions of the class cover the fireground where decisions are made under pressure and time compression. Through training both the nozzle firefighter and the boss will gain a better understsnding of the process that makes them an unstoppable team. The hands-on portion will cover several nozzle pushes through a specially designed apartment, commercial space, water mapping challenges and and hoseline advancement."
- Hose & Nozzle Lab with Sgt. Stephen Florian (Detroit) – We're proud to have a variety of our KrakenEXO lines (including LPX!) on the ground as part of this HOT lab with Sgt. Florian and his team of instructors. "Dive into modern hose and nozzle technology, high-rise packs, and deployment strategies built for today’s staffing challenges. Flow water, move handlines, and sharpen their skills with cutting-edge setups, walking away with the education to make smarter, faster, and more effective fireground decisions."
- HEN Flow Zone #16207 – Experience multiple sizes of our KrakenEXO line paired with HEN Nozzles and see how this pairing delivers where it matters most.
Where to Find Us:
Inside Booths 4269 & 4268 – right on the exhibit floor, a row up from E-ONE and REV Group. You’ll find a packed house of our demo crew & sales reps: Allan Macrae, Jamie Emblem, Kevin Pfluger, Chris Grey, Capt Caleb Langer, Capt Jordan Hempker and Capt Ron Givens. Even the President, Bob Richardson, is on the floor! Plus don't miss your chance to meet the magic behind the marketing – Lydia & Vanessa. We bring the party! ;)
Outside Flow Zone #16521 – straight out the doors from the hallway between the convention center and the stadium. Stay to the right of the lot. You'll find HEN, Turtle and then us where all the water is flowing! Come check out our new hose bed prop & flow our LPX lines to earn that Challenge Coin!
🔥 FDIC 2026 Is Going to Be Legendary. Don’t Miss It.🔥
We’re bringing the hose, the crew, and the energy—you just bring yourself. Mark your maps, spread the word, and let’s make this year unforgettable.
See you in Indy!
