Abstract: A protective boot comprising a flexible hollow bellows member configured to operatively house a reciprocating mechanical structure therein to isolate the reciprocating mechanical structure from dust, moisture and other contaminants in the surrounding environment, the flexible hollow bellows, movable between an extended and retracted position, comprises at least two longitudinally compressible sections each comprising a plurality of compressible segments, the two longitudinally compressible sections are separated by a groove or slot such that the longitudinally compressible sections extend and retract independent of each other and wherein the compressible segments in each of the longitudinally compressible sections extend and retract in unison and uniformly to evenly distribute the longitudinal forces exerted on the protective boot during extension and retraction thereof along the entire length of the flexible hollow bellows member.