Some guys over here cut soles out of used car tyres, and they put many miles on their shoes. Many farmers and their men staff wear vellies. The ladies of the khoisan do an annual reed dance and they all also wear vellies.
Glad that you now know the origin of your desert boots, and life has many twists and turns.

So, I also wish you many miles in your comfortable shoes.

Blessings!

!BEER