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GEAR PADDLE FEET As interest in water-based adventure is booming, the aquatic footwear category is gaining ground-literal ly. Recreationalists who once felt limited by sloshing around in fl imsy neoprene socks and running rivers in their Chuck Taylors have since demand ed more for their waterworld pursuits. Textile- and shoe-makers responded with revamped research and development result ing in a whole category of aqua-friendly foot apparel guaranteed to keep your' peds well wardrobed-this time in shoes that are truly amphibious. Here's a look at some of the breakthroughs. rtl TEVA UNIVERSAL LC APPROACH "Universal" refers to the strapping sys L....:.J tem, a technology found in a couple of models in this product line. "LC�" is for lateral control. an extra strap around the big toe keeps your foot in position even when you pivot on sharply angled rocks. The Spider Rubber outsole grips wet rocks for a slip-free approach. This appears to be the Rolls Royce of sports sandals, fully loaded. Conspicuously, this top-of-the-line san dal only comes in men's fits. leva; 800-FOR-TEVA, www.teva.com $79.95 L2.J r-:;Ⴀ䊉 NIKE AIR SPIN CYCLE The most copied design feature in the world of sneakers, Nike's "visible Air Sole unit", makes an appearance in the sandal category6this time under a deep stabilizing heel cup in an anti-bacte rial Phylon footbed that keeps the rank from building. A removable rear strap provides optional slip-on capabil ity. Buckles on padded, quick-dry uppers are designed for security in rough conditions in, or out, of the water. The outsole has been outfitted with a new water traction compound for "maximum trac tion on wet surfaces." Available in men's and women's sizes. Nike; 800-344-6453, www.nike.com. $65 IJl RLX GORGE HIKER Ralph Lauren's authentic athletic label, RLX, now L-::.J boasts a partnership with Reebok, making use of their proprietary footwear technologies. The RLX, Lauren's new entry in the sport sandal cate gory has an aggressive hiking tread for a surefooted decent to the river. The waterproof pigskin footbed and neoprene liner provide extra comfort in wet conditions. RLX; 800-775-7656, $85 I'4l CHOTA RIVER RUNNER 2000 The whitewater crowd is the target for this � sock because it is designed for lateral support, making rocky approach es well, less rocky. ltis also flexible and low profile so it fits inside any cock pit too small for sandals or tennis shoes. It features a waterproof leather over lay, WetTrack compound rubber on the sale, and a neoprene upper. Best of all it drains water instantly so there's no slosh. Chota; 423-690-1814, $69,95