Cool Casual Comfort With Eco Components
OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET, SLC-UTAH
"TREAD LIGHTER"
Words, Images
Judith Ecochard
It wasn’t until after our chat with the Rafters/Bogs reps at OR, that we realized how we’d just been granted insider status, feet-wise.
Because = walking around afterwards= with our new Rafters flip-flops, a basic black pair with snazzy patterned webbing …we earned “Oh cool, Rafters” comments. And then while hanging around the SLC airport prior to our flight…we noticed a handful of OR attendees wearing Rafters…
Yes.
RAFTERS sandals and shoes are all about quality, comfort and fit at great price points. There’s an internal midwedge for stability (water shoes), sculpted footbeds for arch support, drainage holes and non-slip rubber “channeled” outsoles (in two tones for the flip flops!) that “direct water away” so one can grip slippery surfaces.
ECO BONUS POINTS: The colorful upper webbing is made from recycled PET (plastic water/soda bottles), the outsoles are made from 25% recycled rubber, the breathable lining is made from 60% bamboo fiber, and the mid wedges and outsoles “are infused with jute plant fiber and cork.”
INFO: RAFTERS FOOTWEAR
A related company, BOGS FOOTWEAR is a classic. Hailing from moisture laden Oregon, this company's DNA tricked out dairy farmers and ranchers with its thick (up to 7 millimeter) neoprene topped boot with easy pull on handles and a seamless four way stretch.
Genius Feature: The “Moisture Transfer Technology”…with “ perforated holes that’s backed with waterproof, breathable membrane…plus an internal OrthoLite® moisture wicking, anti-fungal lining. So Bogs protects and keep feet warm (seriously, to -20 to-40 F)... and comfy without the stinky, sweating yuch.
Now, Bogs is expanding its selections for the outdoors market with bumped up patterns, styles and colors. The City Slickers and Classics have mid calf, to the knee, and shoe options –like a Mary Jane flat for gals. Prices range from about $68.95 up to $143.95 for the mid height City Walk styles with leather uppers.
INFO: BOGS FOOTWEAR