The U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research Development and Engineering Center, in support of Product Manager - Clothing and Individual Equipment, is conducting a market research investigation for Mountaineering Boots. The goal of this effort is to identif y firms with capabilities to provide/design/develop boots for use by the combat soldier in rugged mountainous terrains and conditions. Interest is in a readily available product or information on development that will be available within the next six to tw elve months. This will be based on a concise and attainable development/commercialization plan. The Mountaineering Boots must be capable of meeting critical technical and uniform requirements as follows: 1) Class C, durable mountaineering boot that reduces shock impact while enhancing stability and support to the ankle. Class C boots, though stiffer and slightly heavier then traditional hiking boots, are specially constructed to support movement over more rugged terrain. 2) Provides protection during wet c onditions but able to breathe and minimize foot perspiration. 3) Outsoles that provide propulsion and torsional support. 4) Able to keep trail debris out of boot while maneuvering. 5) Designed to reduce pressure points and discomfort during descents. 6) Pr events blistering during extended use. 7) Neutral color [such as brown or tan]. 7) Provide for quick break-in. 8) Stiff-soled with tread that grips rocky terrain and loose, however flexible enough to remain comfortable for long periods of activity. Interes ted sources must, within seven (7) days following the publication of this synopsis, respond with information on their current product(s) and how they are made or could be modified to address the U.S. Army requirement. Interested sources shall include detai led information regarding their firm's experience, personnel, facilities and domestic production cability. Product information should include product cost, technical information (e.g. technical literature, data and illustrations, technical certifications), performance capabilities, independent laboratory test results, and relevant company background/experience, and product sample if available. If a firm chooses to submit a sample, no payment will be made by the government for such sample. Firms should provi de pricing for currently available product and/or estimated pricing for footwear currently under development. Firms responding shall indicate whether or not they are a small business. This notice is for market research only. Responses to this notice are to be sent to Mr. Michael Holthe, U.S. Army Natick Soldier RDEC, AMSRD-NSC-WP-WC, Bldg #4 Room D323, Natick, MA 01760-5019. This is not a request for quotations. No solicitation document exists. The information received under this announcement may be used to purchase items for Government testing and/or for developing acquisition strategy. Email your questions to Product Manager - Clothing and Individual Equipment at
[email protected].