DIY Sandals - A follow-up

DIY Sandals – A follow-up two weeks and dozens of miles later…

A couple weeks ago I wrote a post about how to make your own shoes (sandals). At first I didn’t think much of mine. I had to wear them for a few days and then trim a little excess off the outside edge. After I did that they fit much better, and were more comfortable. I took them on a river trip through Cataract Canyon (I guide for Tour West in the summer) and wore them most of the trip – at least when I wasn’t in the water.

I don’t think they’re very well-suited for a lot of wet-water use, but that’s okay. I used them on a fairly long and rugged hike to the Doll’s House in Canyonlands, about 3 miles of rugged trail with a steep climb and some sandy sections. They performed better than I’d hoped. By the time we started the hike on day 2 of the trip I’d been wearing them for almost two weeks and they’d broken in quite well.

I worked on the original lacing method a few times and modified it slightly. I ended up making them too tight a couple times and realized that suffering through the tightness was key – once they loosened up they were perfect.

Even after being told by me buddy that “Jesus called – he wants his shoes back” these have turned out to be very comfortable, and they’ve become real easy to slip on and run around in. I kind of made this as a test pair, thinking the next pair would have thicker leather for the sole. After hiking a couple miles over rough terrain my feet were slightly tender. I think a thicker leather sole would help prevent that to some degree. I hesitate to make another pair too soon though – these have become comfortable enough I think I’ll wear them until they get a hole – despite the jokes. I worried about traction a little, but the only time I slipped at all was on a smooth, sand-covered rock. It takes a little adjustment to your gait – more like walking barefoot. Luckily I’m pretty used to that.
Thanks for looking. _____________________________________________________________________

I’ve written and illustrated two children’s books that are now available in print and digital versions; Coyote Life, and The Cat’s Glasses. If you’ve got kids, check them out. If you enjoy them, please leave a review, tell your friends, etc. Thanks.

Kid’s Books: The Cat’s Glasses

Does your cat need glasses? How do you know? Follow one little boy as he tries to find out in The Cat’s Glasses by Quinn Hall

Kid’s Books: Coyote Life by Quinn Hall

Coyote Life is a short, rhyming children’s book about coyotes in the Southwest.

Don’t forget to check out some of the fine art prints for sale in my Etsy shop.

My wife Leah also makes and sells some pretty cool leather stuff like minimalist wallets and camera straps. Check out her Etsy store for some cool gear.