The word Teysha (Tay-sha), means friend and ally and comes from the Native Caddo people of Texas, where boots are made for walking. In Austin, the creators of Teysha were inspired by the colors, creativity and cultures of Latin America, a common bond with which we share. Hand-crafted in Guatemala, these one-of-a-kind boots bring opportunities to the world, especially in the creative employment sector for the artisans.
Now that I’ve been lucky enough to trek through my stomping grounds of Argentina with happier feet, I like to think each step is a celebration of diversity, a step for quality over quantity, like one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind. Amiright? Oh, and be prepared to get stopped in the streets. That’s all I’m sayin’.
Buenos Aires, Argentina 
Iguazu Falls, Argentina 
Bariloche, Argentina
Your travel sole mates are waiting on you! Enter to win a pair of custom-made Teysha boots (or other accessories in their online store) by:
1) Following Teysha (@teysha_is) and The Road Les Traveled (@lesleyannemurphy) on Instagram.
2) Commenting on this Teysha post for WHY you need them.
Contest runs from December 15th – 19th, and we’ll announce a winner on December 20th. ‘Tis the season! Give them as a gift or keep them for yourself!
Now tell me why these custom-made boots would look to-die-for on your feet, or someone else’s, for a chance to win! Cheers to making the world a more vibrant place!
Wow these boots are so stylish and unique! I would love to have a pair of these because they are different from any other combat boot and would be perfect to wear with pretty much any outfit! You’re unique style makes me anxious for a pair of my own!! Fingers crossed!!!:)
I agree, Shandi! These boots would be perfect with just about anything! Thanks for entering 🙂
Wow! First off, all your Instagram posts and blog posts are inspirational, and I admire you’re words. These boots would be so perfect for my mother, she’s very into fashion and travel and there’s nothing more perfect than some custom boots 🙂 I want to be able to give back to my mom with something unique, and awesome. Thanks for everyday positivity and encouragement for the rest of us Lesley! 🙂 cheers!!
Happy you’re a fan, Teresa! Thanks so much for your support and I’m in total agreement – these boots are the perfect fashion accessory to all kinds of travel 🙂
I love to travel and this summer I will be traveling the world, and owning a nice and unique pair of boots would make me stand out from the crowd of tourists. I am hoping to create a blog to go with some of my charity work and explain how a pair of shoes can go a long way and I think these would be the perfect pair to wear around the world and to help with my campaign to raise awareness. and not to mention they are super cute and i am sure it would be an awesome way to make friends in new countries!
Sara, you should definitely start that blog and share your stories with others! Great idea. And you’re right, these boots definitely help make you stand out, no matter where you are in the world.
Ahh, obsessed with these one-of-a-kind boots!! Dying for a pair of these to share with my best friend as we study abroad next semester in Spain!! Crossing my fingers:)
Have a blast in Spain! Can’t go wrong in that country, especially traveling with your best friend 🙂
So I can fashionably take the path not traveled and leave behind a beautiful trail.
Thanks for your beautiful words, Bryla.
I’d die for these boots! I can just imagine these if I study abroad in Australia next year being my go to shoes. Besides that boots are my favorite type of show they make any outfit but are kinda expensive which is hard for me. In school the only thing we can wear to express our personality and artistic side is our shoes and these would be perfect! Please please please
These would be a hit in Australia 🙂 Thanks for your support, Cammy!
Next summer, I am going to Nepal and India to work in a hospital and at a charity. These are some of the most colorful places in the world, and having a pair of these boots would bring even more color to these cities. I would love to wear them on all of the adventures I am about to have!
These boots would be a hit in Nepal and India! Thanks for all you do to give back, Lauren!
I’m currently planning my honeymoon through Central and South America (Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru, Ecuador) and these would not only be a stylish accessory, but a meaningful one! Teysha’s mission to empower and unify is so refreshing from a company and it emulates how I try to live my life. I am currently finishing up my doctorate, so funds are too tight to purchase these on my own, but I’d give anything to get my a chance to get my feet in a pair of these (and pay it forward after!). Much love!
Have the best time on your honeymoon! If you’re near Antigua, Guatemala, it would be fun to visit the Teysha workshop 🙂 Safe travels, Laura.
These boots would be perfect for my summer adventures around the U.S. and abroad in Germany, Italy & Switzerland. When traveling, it is always nice to have something personal to carry with you and remind you of who you are and where you come from. Having a pair of these amazing, customizable boots would allow me to bring a piece of my personality to each place that gives a piece of itself to me.
Love the relationship with travel that you describe. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and support with us, Natalie!
I would love to win a pair of these custom boots because to me, these snazzy pair speak character and individualism. Something I really embrace in, which is to love yourself and express yourself without any shame or a sense of guilt that you will be shunned upon, and I cannot think of a better way to portray that than to walk in strides with these bold colors and match them with any outfits that you see fit, simply because you can. As I continue to learn how to embrace and appreciate who I am as a being, I would love to trek on this journey with these pair of beautifully crafted shoes for many decades to come.-Yours truly, Selena Wang.
Selena, thanks for expressing yourself here. I think more people need to have this same mentality! Be bold, be you!
I would love to win a pair of these boots because I just worked my butt off studying for finals and I passed all my classes with awesome grades! I’ve never been so proud of myself, and winning these boots would just be a cherry on top of it all!
Congratulations, Mikki! Awesome job. You definitely deserve a reward. Finals are no fun!
I love these boots! They tell a story, and they are obviously the kind of boots you get asked about. What better shoes to tell about when they have a story behind them!
You’re right, Erin. That’s the fun part about these boots. Not only do the colors stand out, but their story shines so so bright!
These boats are gorgeous! I would love a pair of these boots to style my plain colored scrubs I wear to dental school everyday! These boots would make me so happy and create the best end for this semesters especially since I’ve had 2 weeks worth of finals. 5 down and 2 more still to go! Make me happy! 🙂
Love from Detroit
Good luck with the end of finals, Mary. You deserve a reward after it’s all over and done! And I agree…these boots would spice up some scrubs for sure 🙂
I would love these boots because I am currently studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina and taking every moment of free time to travel the beauty that is South America and would love have these adorable zapatos to accompany me on my travels!
We’re neighbors!! And about taking every moment of free time to travel the beauty that is South America…girl I hear you! How are you liking BA?
Having seen some of the weavers that Teysha sources from in action down in Guatemala and met with the Teysha folks here in Austin, I can definitely say I am fully behind the work they are doing and would love the opportunity to spread their story with more people by talking about my very own boots! I’m already planning my next adventures in 2015 and would love to hit the ground running by exploring in Teysha-style. Hope you’re doing well Lesley!
Thanks so much for your support, Katy! So glad to hear you’re very familiar with Teysha in Guat and in Austin. That’s amazing. Safe travels in 2015 and hope you’re well, Katy!
My feet are what lead me to a life inspired by travel. Due to a birth defect, my feet did not form correctly, after corrective surgeries I was left with 10-15% of normal movement. Thankfully I’ve been able to live a fairly normal life, as long as I have the right footwear. I got into skiing bc of the support the the boots provided and I wasn’t limited by my lack of movement and strength in my feet/ankles. Skiing inspired me to move across the country to pursue a career in the travel industry and now I get to share my passion for travel, mountains and skiing with people every day.
Emily, thanks so much for sharing your story here. You’re an inspiration to us all with your positivity and life of travel!
I need these boots to help me chase my dreams.
No time like the present to start chasing!
I NEED these gorgeous boots!!! I am trying to start a new photography business and I would love to shoot in these boots! They are incredibly inspiring and they look luxuriously comfortable! XO
Tiffany – these boots would make the perfect photog subject 🙂 I highly enjoyed taking a few pictures in them myself just because they’re so vibrant and POP on camera!
These boots would inspire me to take steps in new territory. I’ve always loved travel and I desire to pursue my dreams. These boots will be my boost to go and do. Cheers.
No time like the present to go and do, and I agree – these boots would be the perfect compliment!
They would give this girl the guts to do an adventure shes santed to do her entire life. #bucketlistgettinshorter
These boots definitely are a great accessory when adventuring 🙂
Slow feet, quick feet.
Trick feet, sick feet.
These boots would make me so happy at school.
I’d forget all my worries and dance like a fool.
I’d wear them and think of all the places I have been
Boy! I sure do hope that I WIN!
I’ve never entered a contest like this before but these boots are just too perfect. I traveled to Guatemala two years ago for a research and volunteer trip. It was an incredible country that I think about often. These boots would serve as a reminder of my time there, and encourage me to always explore and take new adventures.
Ps. I love what you do. #teamlesleyforever
Love this post and love your poem 🙂 Thanks for making me smile, and thanks for all you do to give back, Andrea.
PS I love what you do, too!
I NEED these boots for my trip on a semester abroad where I’m going to Australia and New Zealand! Currently stocking up for the trip and would LOVE to pack these amazing boots along with me!
P.S. I’m a broke college student and these would come in great handy! I promise!
xoxo
These boots would be a hit in Australia and New Zealand 🙂 Safe travels, Katie!
The streets of a cosmopolitan European city, up close and personal with nature in Alaska, or on a mission trip in Kenya, these shoes could take me anywhere, as many of my old shoes have. Actually, I have an older pair of sandals that are past the point of wearing, but I refuse to get rid of them because they have accompanied me all over the world. I can see a pair of Teysha boots doing the same thing and more. With every step I took and every bit of soil that I spread around the world, I would walk with pride knowing that my shoes represented something bigger than myself.
You paint a lovely picture of travels with these boots, and your last sentence it spot on. Thanks for your support, Jill.
I need them because I am currently finding myself. I am passionately involved in yoga and meditation and would like to expand that to a more worldwide experience. I NEED these boots to take me on that journey to help me become more confident in my step and in my growth to find a "new" me. These boots are as unique as the person wearing them. I NEED some to match my personality, my love and my passion for the world.
You’re absolutely right that these custom-made boots are as unique as the person wearing them. They showcase individuality, adventure, and a celebration for diversity. Thanks for your support, Mariah!
Dear Lesley,
From one fellow traveler to another, we know the importance of a good traveling shoe (and we’re ladies, so of course fashionable is a plus!) My work takes me all over the world as well, just in a different way. I’m currently an optometry student with a career goal of practicing internationally. My passion is providing eye care for those in greatest need. Whereever my feet can take me, I want to go help others. And these boots would be a perfect treat while doing so, especially on my upcoming trip (location TBD by school, but either Belize or Colombia!) I love how these boots have such a unique creation story, and they would be worn with pride!
Mary, what an amazing job you have to travel the world while helping others. I can’t think of anything better. I agree that these boots would be the perfect accessory while doing so. Safe travels in Belize or Colombia!
As an international development student I have learned that connecting and empowering local communities is most important when creating positive change. The passion and cultural detail that local artisans in Latin America use to create art in the form of clothing, shoes and jewelry is incredibly fascinating to me. I have had the privilege of seeing grassroots artisan businesses in Bolivia and look forward to working in Latin America and helping communities achieve sustainable development through job creation. It is amazing to see Teysha supporting the local culture and people of Latin America. I would be very lucky and proud to wear these boots as a celebration of Latin American culture and the hard-working, talented artisans that work to produce positive change in their own communities.
Sydney – we’re on the same page. I agree wholeheartedly with what you said. Thanks for being a fellow supporter of empowering local communities and creating positive change!
Not even 24 hours ago, I came home from a semester abroad in Germany, an experience that truly changed my life and worldview (and gave me a fractured foot due to walking in sub-par shoes, making me wish I had these since August!). I have more adventures coming up, including one to Marrakesh this summer through my university, where we will be working with various organizations to help bring fundamental human rights to sub-Saharan refugees. These boots would be great to bring along as a functional but adorable staple on my lifetime quest to see- and change- the world.
Thanks for the opportunity, I’ve already fallen in love with Teysha and their shoes in the 2 short hours I’ve heard of them!
Kristen – so happy to hear you had a great experience abroad (minus the foot fracture, of course!) These boots would be a hit in Marrakesh amongst its many colors. Thanks for all your do in this world!!
WOW! I wish I had these while I was studying abroad in Oz. They are simply perfect in all ways and exactly what my wardrobe is missing! These would be so fun to wear on all of my upcoming adventures! Especially to the Carlsbad caverns 🙂 They would be fun just to do a photo shoot with because they are so beautiful! Or even just leave on a shelf in the house! Gosh I just can’t get enough of them! Love the way you styled them as well! Would be cute with a little black summer dress as well! Hope you pick me! Promise they will go to good use and will join me in the process of checking off my own personal bucket list 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
-Lindsay
They are such a fun fashion and travel accessory! These boots pair so well with just about anything. Glad you think so too!
Starting in January I am going to be volunteering as a first relief counselor for individuals who come to the hospital to report a rape and get cared for. I’m emotionally preparing for the trauma which I will face on a daily basis. During the day shifts I get to choose my outfit and I feel that these shoes will bring some much needed positive energy into my life , they would also surely spark up a conversation with these victims while we are waiting for the police or waiting to for the doctors.
I’m also incredibly inspired by your travels and your blog and for that reason I’m going to be traveling to South America for a few weeks in the spring. I’ve traveled Europe and Asia and much of Africa but I’ve always been terrified of South America :). I would be proudly wearing these boots to remind me to be open minded and take in everything that may come.
Thanks for the opportunity to win them.
Your biggest fan ,
Dorka
First off, thanks for all you do to help others in this crazy world. Secondly, I’m so happy to hear you’re traveling to South America! You’ll love it, and there’s nothing to be terrified of. Just be aware of your surrounding like I’m sure you are in other places of the world. Thanks for your support, and safe travels Dorka!
I would love to have a pair of Teysha boots. I live in Austin and have always admired Sophie’s work with her creativity. It made me especially happy to see that she was using artisans from my roots (El Salvador/Guatemala/ Panama) to create these textiles. I support buying from local shops/friends that are starting their own business, rather than buying the typical "in" item from a popular name brand. I think it is incredible and very admirable when someone begins their own company and grows from there. Not to mention, these boots look great when you travel and almost everyone stops you to ask about them (I know because I am always asked about my flats from Teysha). Proud of my fellow UT friend and would love to keep supporting them by sporting their boots around (especially in my upcoming trip to El Salvador and Guatemala)!
Happy to hear you’re already a big fan! Buying local is very important, and I’m so glad you point that out. Thanks for your support, and safe travels to El Salvador and Guatemala!
LES…I need these boots b/c I am obsessed with traveling, learning about new cultures, and connecting with all different kinds of people. My travels have taken me to more than 30 countries on 4 continents so far. While I am obviously on a little travel hiatus right now because of my 2 little girls (hence me living vicariously through you for the time being) :), I need these boots to keep me travel-inspired during these very precious baby raising years. So, when the time comes, I get back to my passion of traveling the world. I dream of the day when I can instill a passion for travel in my own little girls’ hearts and minds. I’m picturing myself with babies strapped on my chest and back and holding little Leighton’s hand across Africa…reconnecting with all of my precious friends over there and collectively serving in ways that bring more health, security, opportunity, and prosperity to people in Malawi and other African countries. I need these boots to do all of this adventure and service in comfort and in style! You know you want to pick me:)
Thanks for making my heart melt with this one! I think inspiring travel in the heart, mind and soul of others (especially your own children) is one of the most important gifts you can give. I truly think that if more people got out to see the world, we’d all be in a better place. It’s simply a matter of not having a preconceived idea of what something or someone is, but rather going to see what something or someone is. Thanks for your inspiration here, Mollie!
These are such exquisite boots…and I need them to be on my feet that help take me on this beautiful journey through life.
They are the perfect accessory while living a beautiful, colorful life 🙂
When I saw these boots on you, I thought they were so cute and needed to know where they were from. Then I read the caption and saw that you were giving a pair away!! After reading about them, I would absolutely love to own a pair because they signify individuality, yet also an amazing and colorful culture. I think these boots would be amazing to wear anywhere, as they look super comfortable! I would also love to bring them with me on my travels and share them with anyone I see 🙂
Aren’t they amazing?! And you’re right, one of my favorite things about them is that they signify individuality, adventure and diversity.
These boots are amazing! I am from Boston, just finished 4 years of podiatry school in Arizona, and recently started residency back on the east coast. These boots are the perfect reminder of the culture and scenery that I miss so much! With the winter season approaching, they would be the perfect touch of color to the blah gray days. I love traveling but unfortunately cannot take much time off for the next 3 years and would LOVE to have a pair of these boots to remind me how important it is to appreciate when I have the chance to travel and go explore new cultures! As a future foot doctor, I would highly recommend these to my peers 🙂 They look amazing on you & I constantly admire your pictures and passion for travel- that is the point of life and collecting classic, beautiful pieces like this along the way is the perfect way to remember the places you have been and will go. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for your support, Julie, and congrats on finishing podiatry school! And as a foot doctor, you’ll love these custom-made boots as they mold perfectly to your feet 🙂
To have a pair of custom made boots by Teysha would be absolutely amazing. I need these boots. I need these boots not only to make memories, but give me the ability to make memories. As an aspiring travel journalist currently living in New Jersey, I hope to one day leave my mark in the world. I want to travel far and near. I want to make a change, to bring awareness, to learn about and pick apart the many fascinating cultures that overflow in the world. I want a pair of boots that I can look at and say "I wore those exploring Brazil" or "I climbed the Eiffel Tower in these". To have that opportunity would not only be amazing, but a privilege. I don’t think people understand the value items can hold, and to know I traveled the world in a pair of shoes, and then one day have them next to my bed on the floor, waiting to be put on again and go on a new adventure, would be amazing. These boots would be a perfect reminder of just how much there is to explore in the world, and that your feet can look absolutely adorable while doing it. I need these boots to remind me that there’s always another adventure to be taken. I need them to remind me that sometimes life will have it’s lows and you’re going to have to climb to get back to the top. Once I climb up the top, I want to be able to look down at my feet and say "I did it".
From one travel journalist to another, I hear you! I want the same things you do. We’re on the same page. These boots represent so much more than just colorful, comfy boots. Thanks for your inspiration and words of wisdom here, Nikki!
These boots are gorgeous! If I win I’m going to kick off my travels with a step in the right direction… See what I did there?!?
Thanks for your support, Michell!
I would love these boots to keep me company on my upcoming travels! They are adorable and would look perfect on my feet. Boots are my favorite type of shoe and these add such a fun pop of color! 🙂
Aren’t they amazing? Pretty much the perfect travel buddy you could ask for 🙂
I too have a passion for traveling, taking the road less traveled, empowering others, taking in all I can from different people and different cultures, embracing diversity, craving adventure, and I never stop planning my next trip. These boots could be the perfect companion for trekking new countries, starting conversations with strangers, putting smiles on faces, spreading stories and encouragement around the world, making a fashion statement, and taking each day, wherever it may be in the world, one step at a time. They are awesome and I would love to win a pair!
Thanks for seeing so much potential in these boots. They represent so much more than just a colorful pair of shoes!
I love these Teysha boots as well as everything this company respresents! I am from Austin, Tx and purchased a pair of shoes from Teysha a few years ago at ACL and absolutely love them. I have been a traveling nurse for the past 3 years and every new place I go I always get compliments on my Teysha shoes. I would love to have these boots for my crazy mountain travels this winter and for whatever adventure I decide is next for me!
Glad to hear you’re a huge fan! I mean, how could you not be?! Thanks for all your support, Callie!
I literally just got back from Austin on Sunday and specifically made a trip to Teysha to meet and talk with it’s founders. Alas they were all out of town doing fabulous things to spread the news about what they do. I just started my own small business 6 months ago where I travel the world and bring the glorious treasures and handicrafts of that country’s people back home to sell at my pop-up caravans. I NEED these boots because I love the mission that Teysha is accomplishing with supporting their Guat community and I want to spread their story too…and then go to Guat (which I was planning in the Spring) and support artisan communities as well by working with other artisans to potentially create products for my own company. But I just simply can’t head south without these boots on my feet. Since I’ve been stalking them for months I’ve been scheming how to save up my pennies to get them…and then Teysha posted your instagram. So here I am…put those boots on my feet Les and I’ll come down to Argentina to show you how good they look on my feet! Oh and check out my page so you know I’m not making this up. http://www.deptofagraculture.com
Glad to hear you made it into the store! And love your idea of bringing treasures back home to sell 🙂 I agree that you just can’t go to Guat without these boots on your feet. I hope you do make it to Argentina as well! Love the website and love all you do.
I would indeed LOVE a pair of these boots. The vibrant colours and unique style seem to call my name. But the truth is, I don’t NEED these boots. Like many others posting in response, I am very fortunate to have lived comfortably in safe place, never lacking anything that I need and I most cases able to buy the items that I truly want. I am not wealthy, but I am rich in experince. I am fortunate to have traveled to over 20 countries in 30 years. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to see different cultures and be immersed in different worlds. I am fortunate to have had the chance to meet amazing and inspiring people around the world. Many of these people have so little, yet seem to want for nothing and simply enjoy and make the best of life. What an amazing project this is to give back and support these communities of artisans. That is the reason I would love a pair. Not because I need them but because it is a way to support a group and culture like many whom I have encountered and who have enriched my life so much and made me feel as fortunate to as I do. And also, they would look pretty cute as I’m boarding the plane for my next big adventure.
I think being rich in experience is the best thing you can do for yourself! And yes, Teysha is an amazing company that gives back daily. Everyone should take a lesson from them 🙂 Thanks for your inspiring words here, Amy!
Not only are these a pair of boots, but they are the vessel that hold a spirit of adventure. It is about finding adventure each and every day whether that is in the backyard or on the warm sand of a foreign country. And these boots are just the thing to do it in. I would love to be able to experience this world in these soulful shoes. The perfect companion for a one of a kind adventure.
"They are a vessel that hold a spirit of adventure." Couldn’t have said it better myself! And they absolutely are the perfect companion for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Truth! Thanks for your support, Tori!
These boots are more than a fashion statement. They represent the people and the culture they come from. The colors and intricate designs all tell a story. Each and every little line and flower conveys a message of the people of Guatemala that connects them to the culture of the owner. They are a symbol of intercultural exchange, bringing more vibrance to countries around the world. While I have not traveled to Guatemala, I have the chance to experience this intercultural exchange. I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to India, and experience a life and culture outside of my own. These colors and patterns remind me of my time in India and of the amazing sights and people I met along the way. These boots remind me of the beautiful table clothes and scarves that I purchased from the village vendors, goods that they use to support their families while spreading their culture through the colors and patterns. I would cherish these boots, not only because they are helping another community make a living, but because I know by wearing them I would be making the world a more vibrant place.
Thanks for seeing so much more in these boots than a colorful pair of shoes 🙂 I wholeheartedly agree with you! You paint such a lovely picture with your words. Thanks so much for your inspiration here, Jess!
I have heard of Teysha for a while now, but with being in college I have simply just admired from afar. I first heard of them at the Fourth Estate Summit in Los Angeles with Invisible Children. Their message of bridging cultures and communities is one of the main reasons why I love their company! In a world full of "made in china, or taiwan" you can know where your boots come from and who they benefit. The fact that they are so intricately handmade, right down to measuring your foot is just a glimpse of craftsmanship and genuine love for the customer and the product. While I have been very fortunate to have been born into a traveling family and don’t necessarily need these boots, they would be very wonderful to have! I would gladly rep this brand on campus at Texas A&M (even though they are from Austin… :-)) and in my upcoming travels to India, Spain, and Canada.
Cheers to giving, loving, adventuring, and true craftsmanship.
Happy holidays!
Amazing words, Kelley 🙂 The precision of craftsmanship and shopping local really make these boots worth every penny! Happy travels in the new year, and happy holidays to you too!
I LOVE THESE BOOTS! I love artisan pieces to add to my wardrobe and I plan to wear them everywhere on my future travels…next stop-India! These are beautiful shoes and I would wear them every single day!!
They truly are amazing boots and would be a hit in India 🙂 Thanks for your support, Katie!
I love these boots! I am a big traveler and would love a pair of boots that can go from my city life to the great outdoors seamlessly
Great point, Carolyn – these are perfect for walking around a bustling city or seeing the great outdoors. Thanks for pointing out their awesome versatility!
I have been wishing for a pair of these boots since I first saw them at a farmers market in Austin a few years ago. I have never indulged my fancy, and I would love nothing more than to win them!
I hear you! They aren’t easy to forget 🙂
Not sure if my first comment posted, but I have wished for a pair of these since I first saw them years ago at a farmers market in Austin.
I NEED these Teysha’s for exploring Europe and Australia next year!!
They would be a hit in the EU and Australia!
Not only are these boots are my sole mates they are my SOUL mates! Pure perfection from the embroidery to the mix of color. Living in New England (Maine, and no it is not a part of Canada) the weather can change in an instant- which makes it hard to find "THE" shoe, but alas! I’ve found it! So versatile making it the perfect fit for both my lifestyle and the weather. If I am walking around campus or hopping on a plane, train, or automobile these boots can endure it all (and they’re fashionable to boot- pun intended). They are a must have and I must have them!
I totally agree – they are pretty much the PERFECT shoe!
My fiance’s nickname for me is Boots! I would love to wear them as we travel Southeast Asia on our honeymoon ?
Well sounds like it’s destiny 🙂 You definitely need a pair. Happy honeymooning in SEA!
WHY I need these boots:
1 They are so unique and I never want to fit in with the crowd…I’m more of a follow your own path kinda Texas gal 😉
2 I love that they support local artisans abroad. One of my favorite stores is in San Marcos, TX is called True Vineyard and they sell artisanal products made by widows in Rwanda to help them become sufficient providers for their families…their items are made from very unique materials and stand out when you wear them, which is how I see these boots! I love getting to share their story when asked, and would live to do the same for the Teysha brand!!
3 I’ve been craving a pair of my own since I saw them featured on Instagram through Fashion X Dallas 😉 who doesn’t love a great boot (it’s Texas after all!) that has an equally great lifeline behind it !
Fingers crossed!
Taylor M.
You sure don’t ever want to fit in with the crowd… I can see that with your large font 🙂 Sounds like you definitely need a pair of these boots, especially being a TX girl!
I would love to own a pair of these boots! I love to travel but have not been able to for a while. These boots would remind me to stop delaying and postponing new adventures and to take advantage of the gift of today.
Take advantage of the gift of today…couldn’t have said it better myself! Cheers to that 🙂
I’ve always wanted a pair of Teysha boots, but they’re always just out of my reach… whether it’s a bill due, medical expense, etc… I just can’t see to make the splurge for myself. I want to make my life more vibrant by filling it with beautiful things that remind me of the world around me, so much of it I’ve yet to visit….
Great stance of life, Christina. Life should be filled with beautiful things, and travels!
I would love to own these boots because they represent parts of the world that I’m dying to go to but haven’t been able to visit. I would wear these boots until they literally fell apart on my feet (which I’m thinking will be in like 30 years). These boots would be my little pieces of Austin and Guatemala and would hold me over until I can afford to actually go there! I love Teysha because unlike many similar looking products, I know that their boots are made with care and I don’t have to worry about whether or not they were made in a sweatshop or another place with unethical labor practices.
These boots are definitely made for walking – they won’t fall apart on your feet I can guarantee you that! Thanks for your support, Amanda!!
I NEED these on me as I explore Italy in April!
The Italians would go crazy 🙂
i would love these for an upcoming trip to uruguay. my husband and i met there over 10 years ago and are returning for the first time in 2015!
Congrats on heading back. I love Uruguay, and the people of this country would love these boots!
A journey can only begin when you have the courage to take a single step.
And what defines a step?
Cloaked in vibrant colors, a single stride…a half a skip…a stumble, even can mark the start of a glorious adventure.
That promises to illuminate the world.
It is my view that the message behind these boots is a reminder to bring color to every aspect of your life, whether its traveling or staying home, dancing or moseying, celebrating individuality as the life of a party or the person who just likes to be a part of the crowd – with the added plus of supporting artisans! I would be lying if I said that if I received these boots, I’d go out and be the start of an epic movement that promised to change history – but I would sure as heck have a blast making my own mark in them! Thanks for the opportunity!
Thanks for seeing so much more in these boots than just a colorful pair of shoes! And thanks for your support. I absolutely agree with your message!
I work for a non-profit agency in North Carolina, supporting immigrant children from all the the world, but the vast majority are from the "Northern Triangle" – Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
I would be proud to wear these boots to work every single day. Just a glimpse of these familiar colors and patterns would bring a sense of hope to these kids. They would help me say "I know what you’re going through" without having to say a word.
I used to live in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, and miss the colors, smells, and sounds everyday. I would be honored to wear these boots to show unity with the kids I serve, so I can be a warm and welcoming face on their journey to a new start in the United States.
Kathryn – thanks so much for your inspiring words and the way you paint a picture with your profound message.
I would love these boots to remind me that no matter where we are, or what we go through we can pursue and live adventurous lives. A year ago I was in Guatemala working in a trash dump and village teaching design and expressive art. My heart is working with children in poverty in different nations and empowering them with creativity. During that time, I got an infection and a few months later that developed into a serious illness. That unknown tropical illness compromised my entire immune system and left me with an Auto-immune disease. My entire left side in numb from my face to my foot. It’s extremely debilitating and I’m not allowed to travel until they figure out what’s wrong and find a treatment that works.
My life was travel and adventure the last few years, and it was deeply meaningful. From walking red dirt roads in Africa to sit with former child soldiers and listen to their stories, taking roads less traveled in Haiti to visit women at a maternity midwife center in PAP, and working alongside the most beautiful people of Guatemala. But even with this setback of not being able to physically travel due to my health, it has made me appreciate life, beauty, travel and God’s creation that much more! Light really does shine the brightest in the dark.
There will be more days for traveling, more sights to be seen but right now my adventure is a different one; traversing new roads to better health and keeping my adventurous heart full of inspiration and dreams. While I can’t trek through villages in these adorable Teysha boots right now, I would love to have them and wear them all the time in L.A as a reminder of the good days of exploring ahead and to appreciate all of the incredible people, artisans and places I have met along the way. It would be just the best Christmas gift!!
Devon, thank you so much for sharing your story here! Despite your infection, you continue to see the good in travel and helping others. Light really does shine the brightest in the dark. You have an adventurous spirit and we need more people like you in this world!
This is an awesome opportunity your giving people for chance to win a pair!
I didn’t know anything about the company, until one day, it literally fell into my lap. I’ve been searching for a pair of boots with patterns on them, but fell up short. One day, cruising on Facebook, I finally found what I was looking for! They are beautiful but while I was on their website, I realized I’m not just looking for a pair of boots. Im looking for a purpose. Looking for a meaning in something. They are hand-made. Put together with care. This is a company thats worth every penny.
"Our purpose is to connect people through art, community, and culture, and cultivate a more vibrant world."
I would love to purchase a pair of my own one day so I can support this organization.
Thanks for finding the true meaning in these boots! Teysha and its artisans put together such a special product. Thanks for your support, Leah!
I have a completely insatiable thirst for travel – in the past five years, I’ve poured through 30 countries while somehow managing to keep my full-time job and start back to grad school this year. I crave the heightened sense of appreciation, curiosity, and humility that results from visiting new places. I believe that travel truly changes you, blowing your mind at each turn and calling your worldview into question on a daily basis.
I just returned to the states after having moved abroad on a whim, leveraging my job to relocate to Stockholm, Sweden for a year. Just as the Swedish mentality began to seep into my psyche, so too did the Swedish style. Like any good (wannabe) Scandinavian, my wardrobe began fill with lots of luxe fabrics, clean lines, and most of all, black on black on black.
I love how I can see myself and my personal style physically evolve as I experience new cultures. I embrace the juxtaposition that arises as I incorporate the spirits of cultures as wide-ranging as Sweden and Brazil, Vietnam and Italy. How great would a pair of slim black Acne jeans from Sweden look with a pair of vibrant Teysha boots from Guatemala and a loosely woven ivory top from the markets in Kuala Lumpur? Perhaps then top it off with a pair of hammered copper earrings I picked up in Croatia…
I have not yet been to Guatemala, but it’s on my shortlist – and I think owning a beautiful pair of Teysha Peace boots would be just the inspiration I’d need to book a ticket tonight.
It’s very impressive to see someone work so hard and travel the world all at the same time! Awesome job. And I can just picture these boots paired with everything you mention. Such a fashionista 🙂 Thanks for the fashion/travel day dream!
I’ve been hit with the travel bug and with a passion for helping others. I’ve come to realize that jobs and routines can fill your wallet, but adventures and serving will fill your soul. Let’s face it, the travel bug and the fashion bug is almost an impossible and harsh combination on the wallet. Especially in my case, as a classic broke college student. I am studying Elementary Education at Florida State University. The lowest paying, but most rewarding, major. Since I started following Les, I’ve loved her and when I saw Les was traveling through South America, I couldn’t help but stalk her every move. When discovering the beautiful, handcrafted, Teysha boots, I also couldn’t help but fall in love. I’ve had a dream myself to visit South America and Les has motivated me to research opportunities to go explore and serve abroad.
This coming summer I plan to travel to Argentina with the volunteer organization, Voluntario Global. With hopes and prayers that all fundraising will be successful for my trip; I will be an English teachers assistant in a primary school outside of Buenos Aires in the town Flores. I plan to learn all I can about their culture while learning different strategies to teach English during my 12 weeks immersed in Buenos Aires. Studying, working and fundraising for this trip has faded my thoughts of my fashion and attire I plan to pack. Unfortunately, I know my own funds will not include Teysha boots landing in my suitcase. Like Les says, give the girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world. I hope to conquer Argentina in a pair of Teysha boots and make the meaning of the name come true. I will make my now ally’s of Argentina, come to be my friends and hopefully connecting with my students by wearing a piece of their Latin American culture.
Wearing these boots everyday to stomp the beautiful grounds of Argentina will fuel my aspiration to travel, serve and follow Les’ fashionable footsteps, literally 😉
Kelly, thanks for such inspiring words! "Jobs and routines can fill your wallet, but adventures and serving will fill your soul." I couldn’t have said it better myself. Have a blast with Voluntario Global. So happy to hear you’ll be experiencing BA and everything Argentina has to offer, while having the opportunity to give back!
Wow! What an opportunity to be given such a beautiful gift! I love Teysha boots and have been following their journey on Instagram for awhile longing for the day I’d send them a photo sporting a pair of their beauties. 🙂 I recently discovered your blog/insta through this contest and am excited to live vicariously through your travels as I explore as well. I love to travel and experience culture and beauty. I’m especially drawn to these boots and company because of my heart for Central America. I spent 8 months volunteering at an orphanage in Honduras… And, it completely changed me. I’ve since been back 14 times and each time discover a different aspect of the country I’ve grown to love so much. I spent time in language school in Guatemala and the culture is so rich and vibrant it’s intoxicating. Through my time in Honduras and Guatemala, I have formed many lasting relationships with locals, and I see the value and importance of encouraging local artisans in their craft individually as well as their country as a whole. Personally, as a small business owner in the "land of plenty", I know the multitude of struggles to make a business work… So, it’s heartwarming to see Teysha come along side local Guatemalans to help make their dream of providing for their families and community a reality. I would wear my boots with pride and be a beacon to bring to light Teysha’s great mission in my everyday life as well as the road of travels before me.
Katie- thanks for your inspiring words and thanks for all you do in this world! We need more people like you 🙂 Safe travels in the new year and thanks for your support!