Before I even began to search for a location to walk I started my search for shoes.

I had purchased a pair of Onituska Tigers in 2008 when living in Tampa, FL. I've admitted to a number of people that they are likely the best pair of shoes that I have ever worn and for a walk of this sort I want to wear the best.

I was working in the Cinnabon at International Plaza and would often get out after the last bus ran. I lived on N. Highland in Tampa Heights area, but I've been a walk, bicycle, public transit environment supporter for some time now, so I simply accepted the approx. 4 mile walk/jog.

The shoes were a comfort each time and I began to jog a greater distance each night, beginning a block sooner each time. Before I left Tampa to assist in a USGS Green House Gas Study in Colorado I was beginning my jog around Lincoln Ave and not stopping until I'd reached the river.

So, when I began to commit to this walk I sent an email to Asics admitting my admiration for those shoes, confessing my intent to wear their shoes during the course of the walk and asking for any support They might give.


I started by choosing my shoes and I'll be wearing vegan Onitsuka shoes.