For two days in October (Oct. 17 & 18), the best electric utility lineman on the planet will gather in Kansas City to compete in the International Lineman’s Rodeo (the full Expo runs Oct 15 -18). From simulated pole-top rescues, to “sprints” up 40-foot poles, to timed equipment repair challenges – they will put their abilities to the test to earn the coveted title of “best in the world.”

It’s no wonder why we view this as the “X Games” of our industry.

Which gets us thinking. Maybe it’s time our industry started seeing lineman for what they really are: occupational athletes. After all, be it a crisis situation or a “typical” workday, these modern day cowboys are called upon to perform heroics that require world-class speed, agility and technique.

It’s this perspective that is driving us at Bulwark to usher in a new era of smarter, more athletically-inspired “performance FR.” Case in point, our iQ Series™.

Thanks to an all-new FR science that enables us to bring activewear fabrics (even polyester!) into the FR equation for the first time ever, we can finally outfit electric utility lineman properly, and comfortably, for the ultra-physical demands of their duty. Because from greater breathability and softness, to enhanced mobility and moisture management, iQ garments have been designed specifically to increase wearer performance, and productivity.

So next time you see one of these brave souls risking everything to climb that precarious pole, just think about the skill it takes to fill their spiked boots. And if you’re in KC for the Lineman’s Rodeo, be sure to ask about iQ at our booth and see iQ in action. We’ll be outfitting Ameren’s “athletes” as they compete vie for the title.