These boots made for hiking; Choosing from myriad styles is hardest feat.(LIFE - SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY)

0 Comments | Washington Times, The, September, 2004

Byline: Ann Geracimos, THE WASHINGTON TIMES Fall calls to the hiking fan, lured by visions of the season's multicolored leaves and splendor. Consumers looking to buy hiking boots see visions of another sort: a bewildering variety of styles accompanied by some equally confusing brand names.

For instance, the product information sheet on hiking boots put out for retail customers by REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.) lists 77 styles for men and women under three different categories: backpacking; extended backpacking and mountaineering; and lightweight hiking. Details are given for each model regarding price, weight and the nature of the materials used in the lining, midsole, outsole, upper and support sections as well as whether the boot can be resoled and,...