The Timberland CompanyStratham, NH, United States (NYSE: TBL)

US Footwear Sales Down - US footwear sales declined 7.3 percent in the first five months of 2008 compared to the same period in 2007, according to the American Apparel & Footwear Association. The decrease is blamed on rising footwear prices. Footwear companies say that Congress could help slow price increases by ending a Depression-era tax on shoe imports that averages 10 percent of the cost of footwear, but can be as high as 67.5 percent on some items.

Boot Sales Expected to Increase - New designs and cool weather forecasts have many retailers suggesting that boot sales will increase in fall 2008. Luxury department stores Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue say that boots and shoe booties are expected to fuel sales. The 2009 edition of The Farmer's Almanac predicts below average temperatures for most of the US during the 2008-09 winter, but the National Weather Service predicts warmer than normal temperatures. Industry analysts note that regardless of the weather, promotions and discounts will be needed to lure customers into stores.

Weak US Back-to-School Sales Expected - US economic weakness, rising prices, and tight credit markets are slowing retail sales growth during the 2008 back-to-school season, and footwear retailers are likely to be negatively impacted as a result. Total US same-store retail sales were expected to rise just 1.6 percent in August 2008 compared to August 2007, according to RetailMetrics. Consumer income isn't keeping up with rising prices, and that isn't expected to change soon.