What size shoe does a standard 5-1/4" Fire Hydrant have?

A standard 5-1/4" fire hydrant typically utilizes a 6" ductile iron shoe for effective operation and connection to the water distribution system. The size of the shoe is crucial because it needs to match the water main size to ensure proper flow and pressure. A 6" shoe is designed to accommodate the hydraulic characteristics and potential flow rates associated with a fire hydrant of this size, which is essential for firefighting efforts. When interconnected with appropriate piping and systems, the larger diameter of the shoe helps facilitate greater water volume delivery, making it optimal for fire suppression. Therefore, the 6" ductile iron shoe is the correct answer, fitting within the engineering standards for fire hydrant connections in municipal water systems.