The impetus for my question is simply this: my wife and I are planning an AT thru and would like to buy gear as responsibly as possible. I used to be a journalist and learned that at times it is best to cast a wide net, to ask open ended questions, because that exposes you to unexpected answers, and to ask from as many sources as possible. I have even been learning that I don't yet know what "responsibly" means. I have been a member of some of the boards I posted this on for months, a lurker at others for months, and some I just joined. My "mission" is simply to learn.

And boy, have I been learning. I am grateful to everyone who has replied on every board. I am putting together quite a list. On one board someone even started a thread listing where different brands are made by country. Very interesting.

Thanks everyone.