oes
some serious demands: we want function and nology for the mountains, trails and rivers
explore; style and comfort for the streets we walk. shoe manufacturers are responding. Innovatio
in material and design, function and form, have c ed some wacky wonders, as well as some monsters. Shoe taxonomy is increasingly fluid: shoes that form well on snow are cool on city streets; shoes you rock climbing will also stand up to a dip in
ake. In this time of extreme and diverse lifestyles, ave to select our footwear with care. Here's wh there to choose from.
Teva raises the bar again on performance water sandal design. The new Gila uses a quick-drying, padded upper for comfort and to keep things from getting stinky after a day in the wet. The Gila comes in an open-toe model, if you prefer to go Tevas 'n' Socks, or a model with a toe loop if extra lateral stability's your thing. Tava, 800-433-2537, www.teva.com. S79.95.
Originally designed as an adventure racing shoe, this light and maneuverable shoe will take you from horseback to rock face and back again. In fact, adventure racers use the shoe until they are forced to switch to crampons. The Wind's sole is made of contra grip: a mixture of natural rubber and race car tire rubber that sticks to wet and dry surfaces alike. The shape of the shoe allows your
toes to web for increased stability and prevents them from jam ming up in the front. Race on. Salomon, 877-2salomon, www.salomonsports.com. 5115.
The Triax is inconspicuous, a rarity in women's shoes of late. It sports a subtle GI Jane look and hits the mark for those who want a road shoe and a trail shoe in one. Nlke, 800-895-8453, www.nlke.com. $85.
EQT BADLANDER What could be lurking under that mysterious lace guard? Adidas takes an aesthetic risk with the Badlanders but sometimes outdoor function isn't about looks. Ideal for fast approaches when the weather could turn wet, the Badlanders come with a d-ring on the toe for snow gators. Adldas, 800-677-6638, www.adldas.com. $130.
