Viberg Engineer

I came into this contest with no delusions as to how it would end for me. I harbored no false hopes of winning a trip to Japan or one of a kind custom boots. As a man of leisure, I knew my boots would not see hard enough wear to earn their way to the winners circle. Heck, with how bloated my footwear collection had become, I was unsure if they'd even see enough wear to look anything but fresh out of the box. Despite those thoughts, I decided to put my best foot forward and enter. I did it because I enjoy this community a lot - and because a beautiful pair of Viberg horsebutt engineers happened to find their way to me just in the nick of time. I'm glad I entered. Regardless of what prizes are given to whom, I feel like I have already won. My boots didn't undergo any drastic changes and they don't really have would could be referred to as "killer" patina. But they certainly did pick up some character. Some rolls showed up on day one and never quit. The toes have started to show the faintest hint of collapsing, which I think is gonna age very well. Over time the hardy horsebutt leather revealed the depths of its browns and tans and it is glorious to behold. They also picked up some nicks and dings and dents and other damage (RIP buckle strap!) that add to their charm. And all of this happened by actually wearing my boots! How about that? Not hard wear. Not every day wear. But by taking them off of my shelf and wearing them consistently. I'm not gonna lie, these boots did a lot of lounging. But they've also covered a lot of miles and been around for some damn good times. As the dome progressed, I was really reminded of what I love most about this hobby - the boots, duh! - and I pulled back from the obsessive collecting that I had allowed to dominate my enjoyment of it. And that, for me, is the best prize of all! So thank you to everyone who organized this dome and everyone who participated. What a community! What an event! Keep on doming, friends!