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EMTs are one of the first healthcare professionals that see a patient. As first responders, they have the knowledge and equipment to provide emergency, life-sustaining care on the way to the hospital.
In order to deliver care rapidly, EMTs and paramedics need uniforms that are durable, flexible, and capable of carrying the utilities they need. To that end, EMT uniforms provide more storage, are more robust than regular clothing, and have specific features necessary for EMS professionals.
But what is the real need for EMT uniforms? How long does it take to become an EMT? And what are the best clothing options for emergency medical technicians in need of a uniform?
What is an EMT vs paramedic?
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EMT Shirts
For Men and Women: EMT AEMT Star Life
The EMT Star Life’s design is drawn and screen-printed proudly by MICHIGAN ARTISTS & PRINTERS in Ann Arbor. The t-shirt is 100% cotton and machine washable, ensuring that you don’t have to hand wash clothes after a long shift.
The slightly tapered shirt gives it a sleeker, more contemporary look. The company promises that the clothing sizes are standard but recommends going one size up if you’re on the fence.
This t-shirt comes pre-shrunk, so you don’t have to worry about it shrinking after one or more washes.
The cotton is ringspun, then 30/1 fine jersey knit to make the t-shirts. This results in a soft fabric that is durable because of the high thread count. The shirt is not as thick as a gym class t-shirt, but it’s substantially thick and not see-through.
The ink used to print the logo is manufactured in North Carolina. The ink is crack-resistant since the company uses top-of-the-line printing presses and ovens made by M&R in Illinois.
The company has been using phthalate-free components for over a decade, and all of the clothes it manufactures are CFC- and carcinogen-free.
Smart People Clothing EMT Navy Polo
This polo shirt by Smart People takes your look up a notch. With its collar and two-button closure, you’ll have a smarter and more professional appearance while on shift.
The shirt employs moisture-wicking technology to help keep you dry. The shirt also has reflective logos for low visibility areas.
100% polyester. Easy to keep clean.
EMT Pants
Below we’ve listed our top two recommendations for women’s and men’s pants. You can also check our bigger list of 10 EMT pants for men and women.
For Men: 5.11 Taclite Men’s EMS Pant
The Taclite pants are the most popular option for EMTs and paramedics. These pants feature the TacLite ripstop polyester-cotton fabric, that offers comfort, breathability, and durability.
It boasts several features that make it the perfect option for an EMT uniform. The professional-looking pants have double-reinforced seats and knees, and a fully gusseted inseam, making the pants very durable.
In addition to moving with you throughout the day, the pants have a self-adjusting tunnel waistband that will keep you comfortable.
It features thigh-mounted cargo pockets with internal dividers to help organize your gear. There are pockets on the calf, too, offering additional storage, and the web strap will allow you to access some supplies conveniently.
The pants have a Teflon finish, giving the pants dirt, stain, and soil resistance. The Prym snaps and YKK zippers won’t break for years, making these pants worth every cent.
For Women: 5.11 Tactical Women’s Stryke EMS Pants
The Stryke pants feature a premium Flex-tac Ripstop fabric, giving the pants a sturdy build. The flexible fabric doesn’t tear, so you won’t have to worry about having a second pair of pants at hand.
Like the Men’s Taclite pants, the Stryke pants have a Teflon coating. The protective finish makes the pants soil, stain, and moisture resistant. The breathable fabric is also easy to clean.
The tactical pants have a gusseted inseam, giving you complete freedom of movement without worrying about ripping your pants.
The several specialized pockets provide ample storage for all the gear you need on the job.
EMT Boots
For Men: Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
These boots don’t just look outdoor-ready. They feature a construction that makes them outdoor-ready. Getting water or body fluids in your boots can ruin your day, and cleaning and drying out boots can be a chore.
You don’t have to worry about any of that with these boots. The full-grain leather used and the seam-sealed waterproof construction make it fully waterproof. Further, the laces are rust-proof, making the boots perfect for an EMT.
For Women: Under Armour Women’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
The Under Armour boots boast a modern design, and the lightweight construction ensures that your feet won’t hurt or get too hot at work.
It features the UA Storm technology, keeping water out of the boots without compromising breathability. The combination of leather and 900D nylon makes the boots soft and light.
The low-profile rubber lug sole gives you traction on all kinds of surfaces, and the molded EVA midsole and TPU shank give you protection and support.
EMT Belts
For Men: FAIRWIN Tactical Belt
Durability and reliability are what EMTs look for in their belt. The FAIRWIN tactical belt is made out of 1000D nylon, which is durable, soft, comfortable, and eco-friendly.
It features a heavy-duty metal buckle that has a quick-release function. To release the belt, you must push all the golden tabs down simultaneously.
But the best thing about the belt is that it comes with a two-year warranty and a 60-day hassle-free return policy.
For Women: No Show Stretch Belt
This adjustable belt fits great in all sizes. It features a stretchy belt strap, a plastic adjuster, and a plastic buckle. The strap keeps you comfortable because of its stretchiness, and the plastic components make it convenient to unclasp the belt.
But what’s more desirable about the best is that it lies flat and doesn’t bulge under shirts and sweaters. This gives you a clean, professional look.
Need for Emergency Medical Technician Uniforms: Public Safety
Every day at work is different for an Emergency Medical Technician, which makes being an EMT a thrilling, often gratifying job.
EMTs are involved with every type of medical emergency and make life and death decisions that impact the lives of the patients and their families forever.
In addition to keeping an EMT safe and clean, an EMT uniform also symbolizes their role to the public. When there’s an accident or any medical emergency, the uniform makes people on the scene feel safe and reassured since they understand that medical help has arrived.
The uniform makes a paramedic stand out and look professional, and the standard attire indicates to the people that they’re healthcare professionals hard at work that are not to be obstructed.
What You Need to Know Before You’re Ready for the Field
If you want to help people and have decided to become an EMT, but you prefer wearing flip-flops every day, you will have to put a lot of work into building a new wardrobe. You will need to wear the standard paramedic uniform, which varies slightly from location to location.
It’s also important for you to remember that you may be eligible for reimbursement from your employer for the clothing you buy for work. For instance, many employers offer a $150 allowance for boots, and you can buy any boots as long as they cost under $150.
EMT uniforms aren’t cheap to put together. If your employer doesn’t offer reimbursement, you can itemize a tax deduction when you file your taxes.