I toted a copy of Backpacker with me last Saturday for show and tell. Among many buying articles in the gear guide issue, there was an article on boots. Backpacker classified the trail/hiking boots were classified into three main categories: lightweight, midweight, and heavy-duty.
Each category contains multiple subcategories. Some of these are the same throughout (i.e. best value); others vary (i.e. top trail runner). Each section also contains a sidebar called "Reader Approved" in which a reader gives his or her opinion of a boot.
Each section also has a "gear school" sidebar. This sidebar gives 5-6 tips on a topic such as getting a good fit and preventing blisters.The boots section finishes with comparison charts informing the reader of the features of many brands of boots.
Looking at the whole issue, I notice that the charts and sidebars appear for each type of gear throughout the issue. 
There is a larger classification at work in this issue. The boots section is subdivided, but overarching that subdivision, the entire guide is divided into types of gear, like boots, packs and tents. These items are listed across the top of the front cover in colored blocks. The color is brought inside and coordinates with the sections. It is used in the headings and in the outside margins as a thumbnail guide, but the colors do not bleed.
There is a larger classification at work in this issue. The boots section is subdivided, but overarching that subdivision, the entire guide is divided into types of gear, like boots, packs and tents. These items are listed across the top of the front cover in colored blocks. The color is brought inside and coordinates with the sections. It is used in the headings and in the outside margins as a thumbnail guide, but the colors do not bleed. Classification overload!
This is a very useful guide for the gear shopper. I used it when purchasing a pair of boots this past summer.
Backpacker. March 2007
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