The Story My Shoes Tell
- Octavio Cesar Martinez
- Jan 14, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: May 31

Here is my top picks for boots: the Chippewa 6” Service Boots for Men with Vibram soles. I got them back in March 2014 from Rob Roda, the owner of Orn Hansen in Long Beach. He’s since moved his shop to Portland.
That night and those boots changed my life in ways I never could have imagined.
These boots have been on some incredible adventures! They’ve walked in the heart of Saint Peter’s Basilica, crossed the iconic Covered Bridge in Florence, and strolled through the halls of the Uffizi, where the famous Cosmo Medici once roamed.
But these boots aren’t just for sightseeing. They’ve taken me on thrilling hikes through the cobblestone streets of Cuzco, Peru, where I climbed the legendary Machu Picchu and explored the vibrant Plaza Bolivar in Bogota, Colombia. And let me tell you, the chicken soup I had there was absolutely divine!
My journey took me to El Salvador, where I had a unique experience. I was detained by the Narco Federales (don’t worry, they found no drugs!), but I also got to tour the Presidential palace in Ecuador. Can you imagine?
One of the most memorable moments was standing on the equator, wearing these boots. It was an experience I’ll never forget.
These boots have also taken me on a whirlwind tour of Europe and Central America. I’ve crossed the Rhine River in Germany, strolled along the beautiful shores of the North Sea in Tønsberg, and even experienced the thrill of snow for the first time in Trondheim. It was a winter wonderland!
But these boots aren’t just about exploring new places. They’ve also taken me to some truly unforgettable places, like the Hell (yes, you heard that right!) in Norway and back. It was an experience that challenged my perceptions and broadened my horizons.
Wearing these boots, I’ve had the privilege of attending mass in churches and cathedrals across the USA, Europe, and Central America. I’ve had the chance to see some of the world’s most famous paintings, including works by Caravaggio, Monet, Rembrandt, Munch, and Van Gogh. It was an artistic experience like no other.
And let’s not forget about the food! These boots have taken me on a culinary adventure, sampling delicious cuisines from Napoli, Norway, Pink’s hot dogs in the USA, and even Ecuadorian guinea pig (don’t worry, it tasted like chicken!). It was a foodie’s paradise!
These boots have been my constant companions on this incredible journey. They’ve taken me to places I’ve never dreamed of, introduced me to new cultures, and filled my life with unforgettable experiences. I’m so grateful to have these boots by my side, and I can’t wait to see where they take me next.
These boots have been on my feet through thick and thin! I’ve worn them while flying, at a Norwegian soccer game, with jeans, and even with suits. They’ve been through love and heartbreak, and they’re still going strong.
And let me tell you, these boots have a wild history. Back in March 2014, they were going for around $230. But then, last summer, I found a pair of flat wax cotton laces for just $6! I even had them resoled with original Vibram soles for $70.
I absolutely got my money’s worth with these boots, and they’re ready for their next adventure. If you’re in the market for a pair of boots, you couldn’t do any better than Chippewa.
Comments