From Winter Winks 221 - Hiking Boots
"You see that it is of a slightly different design," Holmes said. "More support is lent to the ankles, and hobnails in the soles provide a better grip." He turned the boots over to reveal a grid-like pattern.
I gave the boots that my friend held out a very dubious look.
"Come, Watson," he said with a wry smile. "The way to the waterfall is steep in places, and I would rather not be forced to inform your wife that you tumbled head-long down a mountain."
There was something else behind the smile, something I'd seen more and more since we'd received news that Moriarty had not been captured with his men. But there was nothing to be gained from arguing with Sherlock Holmes, and in the end we set off the mountain together, both wearing the strange new boots.
To my surprise, the boots fit well and were surprisingly comfortable. As the way grew steeper, I became more and more grateful for the added grip and support. As for my friend, the strange emotion in his eyes had vanished and he seemed more and more his old self. From time to time, he paused to examine an interesting piece of stone or foliage, or offered an observation on the breath-taking scenery around us. Step by step, I felt my anxiety fade away.
Whatever came, we would surely be ready.