Details
Cairns® 880 Chicago Structural Fire Helmet
Traditional Chicago style. Modern low-profile performance. Built for the fireground.
Answering the call of firefighters who demand both tradition and performance, the Cairns® 880 Chicago Structural Fire Helmet delivers one of the lowest-profile traditional-style helmets available today. Built using advanced materials technology, the 880 combines classic Chicago helmet styling with high-performance structural protection designed for modern firefighting operations.
Engineered with a tough, high-temperature thermoplastic shell, the 880 resists chipping, cracking, and long-term wear. Its smaller, lighter, low-ride shell design improves clearance, maneuverability, and balance while maintaining dependable structural protection. The result is a helmet that moves easily through confined spaces while providing a stable and comfortable fit during extended incidents.
Key Features
- Low-ride, traditional Chicago-style helmet design for improved clearance and maneuverability
- High-temperature thermoplastic shell resists cracking, chipping, and heat damage
- High-tech thermal impact cap increases heat and impact protection
- Lightweight, balanced shell provides stable fireground performance
- Three-position rear ratchet height adjustment for secure fit
- SCBA interface front headband designed to integrate with SCBA facepieces
- Rugged, high-temperature TPR edge trim resists melting or dripping
- Non-corroding, glass-filled faceshield and goggle mounting hardware
- Patented shell release system increases head and neck protection
- Minimal component design reduces service cost and simplifies maintenance
- 5-year shell replacement warranty
- Meets NFPA 1971 (2013 Edition) protection requirements
Comfort and Fit Systems
The Cairns 880 is designed to provide long-term comfort and secure retention in demanding fireground environments.
- Adjustable sizing range from 5-5/8 to 7-5/8
- Three-position rear ratchet height adjustment for customized helmet positioning
- Removable flannel or leather cushion liner options
- Soft black Nomex® chinstrap with one-hand quick-release buckle and Postman’s slide
- Choice of Nomex or PBI/Kevlar earlaps for enhanced ear and neck protection
Eye and Face Protection Options
ESS NFPA-Compliant Goggles
- Fits comfortably over most prescription eyewear
- High-temperature frame allows fast lens replacement
- Patented Speed Clips allow strap adjustments while wearing gloves
- Snap-on/snap-off mounting system allows flexible positioning or removal
- Can be worn independently or combined with faceshields
Bourke Eye Shields
- Traditional clear Bourke styling
- Exceeds US OSHA (CFR 1910) NBSIR-1977 requirements
Note: Bourke-only configurations are not NFPA compliant.
4" Tuffshield® Defender Visor
- Heat resistant up to 500°F
- Increased impact resistance over standard visor materials
- Amber tint improves contrast and reduces glare
- NFPA compliant
- Meets ANSI Z87.1+ impact standards
Standard vs. Deluxe Configuration Comparison
| Feature | Standard Configuration | Deluxe Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Front Holder | Maltese Cross Front Holder | 3D Carved Eagle Front Holder |
| Reflective Markings | Lime/Yellow Tetrahedrons | Lime/Yellow Tetrahedrons |
| Interior Liner | Flannel Cushion Liner | Leather Cushion Liner with Flannel Crown Pad |
| Earlap Material | Nomex Earlaps | Kevlar Earlaps |
| Shell Finish | Matte Finish | Matte Finish |
| Overall Benefit | Lightweight, durable, cost-effective traditional protection | Premium comfort, upgraded protection materials, enhanced traditional styling |
Available Eye Protection Configurations
- Bourke eyeshields
- 4" faceshield
- ESS goggles
- ESS goggles with Bourke eyeshields (NFPA compliant when combined)
Available Colors
- Black
- Blue
- Red
- White
- Yellow
Customization and Accessories
- Compatible with 6" leather helmet fronts (sold separately)
- Shield bracket mounting screws sold separately
Cairns® 880 Chicago Structural Fire Helmet
Traditional fire service heritage meets modern low-profile protection. Built for firefighters who demand maneuverability, durability, and trusted performance on every call.