Spring break of my junior year in high school is when I made one of the greatest decisions for my feet and my wardrobe. I was going canoeing with a friend, and once again, was struck with confusion and anger when I, a teenage girl, did not have shoes to wear. I knew I was going to start hiking more and doing “outdoorsy” things, so I went out on a limb. I went to Kinnucans with the intent of not walking out without Chacos. Not being able to find a pair in my size, I came to the last pair: double strap orange and yellow with a toe hole, brown and light base, and an absolutely perfect fit. I bought them very enthusiastically, and the footwear of my future changed forever. Honestly, I have barely taken them off my feet since that day.
My Chacos have been there with me through it all, they’ve seen it all, and they’ve felt it all. They have carried me through just about every single adventure I have experienced. My Chacos have endured several terrains with much durability. They have seen the mountains of Haiti, the stands in Turner Field, the campus of Georgia College, many of concerts, waterfalls at FDR park, and many more scenic adventures. Do they leave funky tan lines? Yes. Do they smell like salt and vinegar chips but worse when I take them off after sweating? Yes, but you can wash them and tan lines are temporary. They have also been there through the emotional times: they took my last steps at Columbus High, they supported me when I was limping with crutches, they were there as soon as I stepped out of the baptistry, and they were even my prom shoes... two years in a row. They are practically great for any outfit, or at least I have worn them with every outfit.
Not only have they been a part of me, they are the most functional shoes ever. I can slip them on and off, adjusting the tightness. I can throw them in the wash when they get muddy, smelly, and almost unrecognizable. They can play the role of my "outside play" shoes and formal shoes. When I get cold, I can put socks on and just put my toe over the toe strap. Sockos, right? They even support my flat feet.
I'm tremendously excited to see what other exciting adventures my Chacos and I go on; until then, I will continue to wear them every single day (not kidding).
