True, but there are certainly basic principles that deserve to be discussed.

Many years ago, hiking boots were heavy and made of leather. You'd wear two pairs of socks to avoid blisters, etc.

Today's trail runners and light approach shoes are infinitely superior and I can't help but feel sorry for the nostalgic weekend hiker sticking to old school heavy boots.

I find it interesting that most tourers advocate saddles that are essentially identical to those of a century ago. This would be an extraordinary example of a technology that hasn't been improving.

I've personally gone through the process of searching for a different saddle because my Brooks flyer, purchased without any doubt, turned out to be defective.

I understand the argument that "every butt is different so try as many saddles as you can". But the same could be said for shoes, yet there are definite design alternatives, and myths (such as heavy leather boots prevent sprained ankles) to debunk.