How to Talk to a Shoe
It is all about the feet. If they breakdown on a long distance walk your destiny could be none other than rushing home with blisters and pain.
After 40 years and 60,000 miles of race walking I have blown through more than 250 pairs of shoes. There are more walking shoes in my closet than shirts. I have learned the hard way that selecting the right shoes for a long walk is the most important factor for success. Weeks before I undertake a walking adventure I drag out the musty old box of shoes,
After a preliminary warm up in my five favorite pairs, I sit quietly and begin to talk to each shoe. “Hey, will those holes I cut around the toes for previous races still give support?” “Don’t surprise me with a prick or imperfection hat will rub my skin raw”, I demand as I tenderly caress the shoes private inner parts. “Let’s drop your ratty neighbors”, I playfully tell the three pairs I will give the honor of accompanying me to the remotest corners of the globe. Finally, after stretching and flexing old rubber, webbing and laces off I go with six of my closest friends!