Barefoot#Imprisonment

{{see also|Footwear}}

File:Mahagandhayon MonasteryBarefoot.webm (Amarapura, Myanmar). Monks line up barefoot to accept their late morning meal offered by donors.]]

The ancient Spartans required boys to go barefoot as part of their obligatory military training, and the athletes at the ancient Olympic Games typically participated barefoot and naked.{{cite news|title=Unearthing the First Spartan Boys where not allowed to wear shoes to toughen their feet and allow stronger dexterity in their toes Olympics|url=https://www.npr.org/programs/re/archivesdate/2004/jul/nemea/|access-date=July 1, 2010 |website=npr.org |publisher=NPR|date=July 19, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100728000414/http://www.npr.org/programs/re/archivesdate/2004/jul/nemea/|archive-date=July 28, 2010|url-status=dead}} Although the Greeks had a great variety of footwear, many{{mdash}}famously including Socrates{{citation |last=Nails |first=Debra |date=2022 |author2=S. Sara Monoson |display-authors=1 |contribution-url=https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/socrates/ |url=https://plato.stanford.edu/ |title=Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy |contribution=Socrates |publisher=Stanford University |location=Stanford |access-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-date=January 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126171234/https://plato.stanford.edu/ |url-status=live }}.{{mdash}}preferred to go barefoot.{{citation |last=Purser |first=Louis Claude |author-link=Louis Claude Purser |display-editors=0 |editor-last=Smith |editor-first=William |editor-link=William Smith (antiquary) |date=1890 |title=A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities |location=London |publisher=William Wayte |contribution-url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0063:entry=calceus-cn |contribution=Calceus |access-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-date=March 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323052824/https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0063:entry=calceus-cn |url-status=live }}.

The ancient Romans considered the calceus part of their national dress and used footwear to signal class distinctions. Patricians typically wore dyed and ornamented shoes with their togas or armor, while plebeians wore rawhide or hobnail boots and slaves were usually required to be barefoot.{{citation |last=Frazine |first=Richard Keith |title=The Barefoot Hiker |year=1993 |publisher=Ten Speed Press |isbn=0-89815-525-8 |page=98 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=edsITVCd2G0C |access-date=May 12, 2020 |archive-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630003347/https://books.google.com/books?id=edsITVCd2G0C |url-status=live }}. The discomfort of Roman shoes and boots, however, typically caused even the wealthy to go barefoot or use slippers at home, despite considering them effeminate, foreign, or lower-class when worn in public. It was considered a notable oddity of Augustus that he continued to wear his calceus at all times.

The Chinese similarly considered their footwear an important mark of civilization, although some Taoist immortals and gods like Xuanwu are usually depicted without shoes. Owing to the importance of reflexology to traditional Chinese medicine, many parks across East Asia have pathways of raised stones that people can walk along barefoot for supposed health benefits. From 1965 to 1981, the People's Republic of China also emphasized the training and provision of "barefoot doctors", so called because the rural doctors of southeast China had usually worked barefoot in the rice paddies with the others in their villages.

In medieval Europe, going barefoot or only wearing sandals (discalceation) was a mark of humility and piety among many mendicant orders of monks and nuns. At the same time, however, it was more generally seen as a mark of poverty, the very lowest social classes, and prisoners of war. In Imperial Japan, subordinates were sometimes required to remove their shoes in the presence of their superior as a mark of humility and respect.

Writing on Suriname in 1779, Brother Riemer remarked that slaves "are, even in their most beautiful suit, obliged to go barefoot. Slaves were forbidden to wear shoes. This was a prime mark of distinction between the free and the bonded and no exceptions were permitted."{{cite web |title=Chapter 6: The living conditions of the slaves |url=http://surinamslavery.blogspot.com/2008/10/chapter-6-living-conditions-of-slaves.html |work=Life in the Shadows: Slavery and Slave Culture in Suriname |access-date=July 18, 2012 |date=October 6, 2008 |archive-date=April 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230411223331/http://surinamslavery.blogspot.com/2008/10/chapter-6-living-conditions-of-slaves.html |url-status=live }} Similarly, the Cape Town slave code stated that "Slaves must go barefoot and must carry passes".{{cite web|title=Cape Town and Surrounds.|url=http://www.westerncape.gov.za/eng/pubs/public_info/P/82884/3/|website=westerncape.gov.za|access-date=July 18, 2012|archive-date=June 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602061652/http://www.westerncape.gov.za/eng/pubs/public_info/P/82884/3|url-status=live}} This continues to be practice among the Tuareg in northern Africa.{{Cite web |url=https://www.faz.net/s/RubDDBDABB9457A437BAA85A49C26FB23A0/Doc~E19E0D1A29403492E9787E7A392A3FFAE~ATpl~Ecommon~Scontent.html |title=Niger: Ehemalige Sklavin erhält Entschädigung |last=Von Scheen |first=Thomas |date=October 31, 2008 |website=faz.net |language=DE |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081031151116/https://www.faz.net/s/RubDDBDABB9457A437BAA85A49C26FB23A0/Doc~E19E0D1A29403492E9787E7A392A3FFAE~ATpl~Ecommon~Scontent.html|archive-date=October 31, 2008 |url-status=dead |access-date=August 23, 2017 }}

In contemporary American society, going barefoot outdoors is so uncommon that the phrase "barefoot and pregnant" is generally understood to describe women kept unable to socialize or have a life outside the home.{{cite news|last=Newman|first=Ruth I.|title=Ozarks Women: Ignorant, Barefoot, and Pregnant?|url=http://thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org/lochist/periodicals/wrv/V9/N8/s87c.htm|access-date=June 29, 2010|newspaper=West River Valley Historical Quarterly|date=December 22, 2002|archive-date=September 13, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100913054557/http://thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org/lochist/periodicals/wrv/V9/N8/s87c.htm|url-status=dead}} It was first used in the early 20th century.{{cite journal|last=Hashinger|first=Edward H.|title=Arthur E. Hertzler: The Kansas Horse-and-Buggy Doctor|journal=California Medicine|volume=95|issue=3|pages=204|year=1961|publisher=University of Kansas Press|pmc=1574475}}{{cite news|last=Peck|first=Joseph H.|title=It's All Right to Keep Her Happy, But, Men, Don't Do Her Chores|url=https://news.google.ca/newspapers?id=c3QzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ruIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6821%2C3738371|newspaper=Eugene Register-Guard|date=May 21, 1958}}

Several major religions advocate or mandate the removal of footwear when entering a place considered holy. In the Book of Exodus, Moses is commanded to remove his shoes before approaching the burning bush:

{{cquote|Put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest [is] holy ground ({{bibleverse|Exodus|3:5|KJV}}).}}

Although the Priestly Blessing is still done barefoot to preserve the former practice at the Temple of Solomon, it is not usually required to remove shoes at a Jewish synagogue.{{citation |last=Golinkin |first=David |date=13 August 2020 |url=https://schechter.edu/ |contribution-url=https://schechter.edu/responsa_barefoot-prayer/ |title=Official site |contribution=Is It Permissible to Pray Barefoot? |publisher=Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies |location=Tel Aviv |access-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630003358/https://schechter.edu/ |url-status=live }}.{{citation |last=Jastrow |first=Morris Jr. |author2=W. Max Muller |author3=Marcus Jastrow |author4=Kaufmann Kohler |display-authors=1 |contribution-url=https://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/2519-barefoot |contribution=Barefoot |title=Jewish Encyclopedia |date=1906 |publisher=Funk & Wagnalls |location=New York |access-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-date=June 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630003347/https://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/2519-barefoot |url-status=live }}. However, anyone entering an Islamic mosque or a Hindu temple is expected to remove their footwear. Shoe racks are usually provided near the entrance.{{cn|date=August 2021}} In Christianity, most churches and holy sites can be entered wearing shoes but there are some local exceptions, such as the barefoot night ascent of Croagh Patrick in Ireland.{{cite news|title=Mayo Mountain Rescue Team appeal to pilgrims for safety on holy mountain|url=http://www.castlebar.ie/news/article_2671.shtml|access-date=June 29, 2010|newspaper=Castlebar News|date=July 24, 2006|archive-date=September 9, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100909012208/http://www.castlebar.ie/news/article_2671.shtml|url-status=live}} The practice sometimes extends to secular respect as well. Raj Ghat, the monument to Mahatma Gandhi, is usually visited barefoot; this was observed by both US president George W. Bush and Pope John Paul II.{{cite news|title=Barefoot Bush pays tribute to Mahatma|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Barefoot-Bush-pays-tribute-to-Mahatma/articleshow/1436126.cms|access-date=June 29, 2010|newspaper=The Times of India|date=March 3, 2006|archive-date=October 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005074629/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Barefoot-Bush-pays-tribute-to-Mahatma/articleshow/1436126.cms|url-status=live}}

Discalceation, the practice of going constantly barefoot or clad only in sandals, is a common feature of Christian mendicant orders, practiced by the Discalced Carmelites (1568), the Feuillant Cistercians (1575), the Trinitarians (1594), the Mercedarians (1604), the Passionists, the Poor Clares and Colettine Poor Clares, and the Descalzas Reales.{{cn|date=August 2021}} This is untaken as part of vows of poverty and humility,{{cite book|last=DeMello|first=Margo|title=Feet and Footwear: A Cultural Encyclopedia|year=2009|publisher=Macmillan|isbn=978-0-313-35714-5|pages=30–32|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5QdKSxajwP0C&q=barefoot%20middle%20ages&pg=PA30|access-date=October 1, 2020|archive-date=November 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122042/https://books.google.com/books?id=5QdKSxajwP0C&q=barefoot%20middle%20ages&pg=PA30#v=snippet&q=barefoot%20middle%20ages&f=false|url-status=live}} as well as a remembrance of Moses on Mount Sinai. Hindu gurus go barefoot to allow their followers to demonstrate their love and respect by pranam, the ceremonial touching of a bare foot.

It is customary in Judaism and some Christian denominations to go barefoot while mourning. The ceremonial washing of others' feet is done after the model of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, who washed the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper.

File:Australia barefoot.jpg.]]

It is common for Australians, particularly young people, to be barefoot in public places, especially during summer.{{cite web|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/weekend-australian-magazine/season-of-the-shoeless/story-e6frg8h6-1226732901337 |title=Season of the shoeless |website=The Australian |access-date=November 27, 2015}}

Barefoot walking, known as "earthing", has been used by the Australian cricket team to "capture positive energy coming out of the earth."{{Cite news|url = https://www.thetimes.com/world/australasia/article/australia-walk-barefoot-around-edgbaston-to-create-positive-energy-before-world-cup-semi-final-with-england-hv62rjgft|title = Australia walk barefoot around Edgbaston to create 'positive energy' before World Cup semi-final with England|newspaper = The Times|date = July 8, 2019|last1 = James|first1 = Steve|access-date = July 8, 2019|archive-date = July 8, 2019|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190708212722/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/sport/australia-walk-barefoot-around-edgbaston-to-create-positive-energy-before-world-cup-semi-final-with-england-hv62rjgft|url-status = live}}

Tourist barefoot hikes are regularly organized.{{Cite web |date=2015-02-02 |title=Bosování - nový trend, se kterým můžete začít i v zimě - Novinky |url=https://www.novinky.cz/clanek/zena-styl-bosovani-novy-trend-se-kterym-muzete-zacit-i-v-zime-270395 |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=www.novinky.cz |language=cs |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193203/https://cmp.seznam.cz/nastaveni-souhlasu?return_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.novinky.cz%2Fclanek%2Fzena%2Dstyl%2Dbosovani%2Dnovy%2Dtrend%2Dse%2Dkterym%2Dmuzete%2Dzacit%2Di%2Dv%2Dzime%2D270395%3Fcwreturn%3D1&service=bcr&cwtime=1721935923353 |url-status=live }} These events are organized by associations such as Bosá turistika.{{Cite web |date=2015-04-07 |title=Tukutuku.cz – Běh bez bot. Bosujte jako boss. |url=http://www.tukutuku.cz/lifestyle/beh-bez-bot-bosujte-jako-boss/ |access-date=2024-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150407023514/http://www.tukutuku.cz/lifestyle/beh-bez-bot-bosujte-jako-boss/ |archive-date=April 7, 2015 }}{{Cite web |title=Bosá turistika, web o chození bosky, naboso, turistika naboso |url=https://www.bosaturistika.cz/en/ |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=www.bosaturistika.cz |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193229/https://www.bosaturistika.cz/en/ |url-status=live }}

Some Amerindian tribes such as the Huaorani live barefoot.{{Cite web |date=2022-08-17 |title=Lopen Op Blote Voeten: Wat Je Moet Weten |url=https://mindcelium.nl/lopen-op-blote-voeten/ |access-date=2024-01-14 |language=nl-NL |archive-date=June 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230602180840/https://mindcelium.nl/lopen-op-blote-voeten/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Stroud |first=Les |date=2019-07-16 |title=Where the Waorani Call Home {{!}} Les Stroud in the Amazon of Ecuador |url=https://outpostmagazine.com/where-ecuadors-waorani-call-home-survivorman-les-stroud-in-the-amazon/ |access-date=2024-01-14 |website=Outpost Magazine |language=en-CA |archive-date=December 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202024013/https://outpostmagazine.com/where-ecuadors-waorani-call-home-survivorman-les-stroud-in-the-amazon/ |url-status=live }}

There is no law in France on the wearing of footwear for driving.{{Cite web |last=CHEKROUN |first=Raphaël |date=2019-06-02 |title=Conduire pieds nus ou en tongs : est-ce légal ? |url=https://blc.avocat.fr/actualite-juridique/conduire-pieds-nus-ou-en-tongs-est-ce-legal/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=BLC Avocats La Rochelle |language=fr-FR}}{{Cite web |date=2022-04-22 |title=Conduire pieds nus ou en tongs : est-ce légal ou pas ? {{!}} Merci pour l'info |url=https://www.mercipourlinfo.fr/conso/mobilites/conduire-pieds-nus-ou-en-tongs-est-ce-legal-ou-pas-347423 |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=www.mercipourlinfo.fr |language=fr-FR |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193226/https://www.mercipourlinfo.fr/conso/mobilites/conduire-pieds-nus-ou-en-tongs-est-ce-legal-ou-pas-347423 |url-status=live }} Nevertheless, there are cases of cities that have made municipal by-laws prohibiting access to certain places while being barefoot for hygiene reasons.{{Cite web |date=2016-04-15 |title=Pour la justice, il est interdit de marcher pieds nus dans la Citadelle de Besancon |url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2016/04/15/01016-20160415ARTFIG00196-pour-la-justice-il-est-interdit-de-marcher-pieds-nus-dans-la-citadelle-de-besancon.php |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=Le Figaro |language=fr |archive-date=October 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008105320/https://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2016/04/15/01016-20160415ARTFIG00196-pour-la-justice-il-est-interdit-de-marcher-pieds-nus-dans-la-citadelle-de-besancon.php |url-status=live }}

During the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Paralympics, barefoot runner Alexis Guinet carried the torch to Laon.{{Cite web |last=Pargneaux |first=Samuel |date=2024-02-02 |title=Alexis Guinet, coureur pieds nus, portera la flamme paralympique à Laon |url=https://www.aisnenouvelle.fr/id489968/article/2024-02-02/alexis-guinet-coureur-pieds-nus-portera-la-flamme-paralympique-laon |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=L'Aisne nouvelle |language=fr |archive-date=February 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240203172401/https://www.aisnenouvelle.fr/id489968/article/2024-02-02/alexis-guinet-coureur-pieds-nus-portera-la-flamme-paralympique-laon |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2024-01-31 |title=Alexis Guinet, coureur pieds nus, portera la flamme paralympique à Laon |url=https://www.lunion.fr/id563699/article/2024-01-31/le-coureur-pieds-nus-portera-la-flamme-paralympique-laon |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=www.lunion.fr |language=fr}}

Until the 1980s, it was common, especially in elementary schools, to allow students who had forgotten their sportswear or at least their sneakers to participate in physical education classes barefoot.{{Citation |title=Wichtige Informationen zum Sportunterricht im Primarbereich |trans-title=Important Information on Sports Lessons in Primary Schools |publisher=Europäische Schule Frankfurt |publication-place=Frankfurt |page=2 |url=http://www.esffm.org/fileadmin/downloads/infos/pimarstufe/generelle%20informationen/Sport_DE.pdf | access-date=2023-12-10 |language=de |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402140704/http://www.esffm.org/fileadmin/downloads/infos/pimarstufe/generelle%20informationen/Sport_DE.pdf |archive-date=April 2, 2015 }}{{Cite web |title=Südschule mit katholischem Bekenntnisstandort Heiliger Josef Kamen |url=https://www.suedschule-kamen.de/fileadmin/schule/suedschule/Datenuebernahme/download/Schulprogramm2013.pdf |access-date=December 10, 2023 |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193126/https://www.suedschule-kamen.de/fileadmin/schule/suedschule/Datenuebernahme/download/Schulprogramm2013.pdf |url-status=live }}

Since 2014, author Sabrina Fox has been walking exclusively barefoot.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=von |date=2017-04-21 |title=Sabrina Fox & Rita Fasel: Unsere Füße – MYSTICA.TV |url=https://www.mystica.tv/sabrina-fox-rita-fasel-unsere-fuesse/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |language=de-DE |archive-date=December 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205045928/https://www.mystica.tv/sabrina-fox-rita-fasel-unsere-fuesse/ |url-status=live }} She describes this as a freedom that she restored to her feet, woke them up and suddenly really felt the ground again. She only wears shoes in situations where gloves are needed for the hands, i. e. to protect herself from heat or cold.{{Cite web |date=2015-10-15 |title=Warum ich barfuß gehe … |url=https://sabrinafox.com/warum-ich-barfuss-gehe/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Sabrina Fox |language=de-DE}}

It is not expressly forbidden to drive barefoot, the German Highway Code simply states that the driver “is responsible for ensuring that his sight and hearing are not impaired by the crew, animals, load, equipment or the condition of the vehicle."{{Cite web |title=§ 23 StVO 2013 - Einzelnorm |url=https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stvo_2013/__23.html |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=www.gesetze-im-internet.de |archive-date=January 21, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240121204621/https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stvo_2013/__23.html |url-status=live }}

It is considered rude to wear shoes inside most residential buildings,{{Cite web |date=2024-03-23 |title=The one major mistake all Japan tourists make |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/japan-travel-the-mistake-most-tourists-make-shoes/WFZ7MX62TIZVRMUWAQVMI6Q4SY/ |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=The New Zealand Herald |language=en-NZ |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322210929/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/japan-travel-the-mistake-most-tourists-make-shoes/WFZ7MX62TIZVRMUWAQVMI6Q4SY/ |url-status=live }} and sometimes even at the workplace. For this reason, most Japanese houses are fit with a genkan, a small room at the entrance where residents and guests can change into slippers or similar indoor footwear.{{Cite web |date=2018-02-19 |title=יפן: איזה סכנות יש ביפן? |url=https://www.mako.co.il/travel-world/magazine-travel-warning/Article-103db0ab8299161006.htm |access-date=2024-01-28 |website=mako |archive-date=August 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230816204734/https://www.mako.co.il/travel-world/magazine-travel-warning/Article-103db0ab8299161006.htm |url-status=live }}

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In Japan, there are public foot baths called ashiyu, which are filled with hot water from geothermal springs.{{Cite web |date=2023-05-10 |title=5 best cafés with foot baths in Tokyo |url=https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/things-to-do/best-foot-bath-cafes-in-tokyo |access-date=2024-01-28 |website=Time Out Tokyo |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193633/https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/things-to-do/best-foot-bath-cafes-in-tokyo |url-status=live }}

In Indian culture, in many an instance, being barefoot has a cultural significance. For example, it is customary to remove footwear when entering a home or a temple as shoes are considered impure. Indians also traditionally sit on the floor when eating meals as opposed to at a dining table, which would normally entail taking off footwear.{{Cite web|url = https://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/10-reasons-why-the-indian-way-of-sitting-on-the-floor-and-eating-is-good-for-health-252822.html|title = 10 Reasons Why the Indian Way of Sitting on the Floor and Eating is Good for Health|date = April 4, 2016|access-date = September 24, 2019|archive-date = September 24, 2019|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190924154249/https://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/10-reasons-why-the-indian-way-of-sitting-on-the-floor-and-eating-is-good-for-health-252822.html|url-status = live}}{{Cite news|url = https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/how-indians-took-to-using-the-ubiquitous-dining-table-in-films-and-at-home/articleshow/54260875.cms|title = How Indians took to using the ubiquitous dining table in films and at home|newspaper = The Economic Times|date = September 10, 2016|last1 = Doctor|first1 = Vikram|access-date = September 24, 2019|archive-date = September 1, 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200901145606/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/how-indians-took-to-using-the-ubiquitous-dining-table-in-films-and-at-home/articleshow/54260875.cms|url-status = live}}

It is common in New Zealand to see people walking barefoot in the street.{{Cite web |date=2019-12-18 |title=Notes From a New Zealand Newbie - The New York Times |url=https://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/22/notes-from-a-new-zealand-newbie/ |access-date=2024-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218215237/https://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/22/notes-from-a-new-zealand-newbie/ |archive-date=December 18, 2019 }}{{Cite web |date=2017-03-30 |title=Cos'è il barefooting e perchè fa bene alla salute |url=https://www.supereva.it/cose-il-barefooting-e-perche-fa-bene-alla-salute-35812 |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=superEva |language=it}}{{Cite web |last=M |first=Sophie |date=2017-12-13 |title=Vivre Auckland: En Nouvelle-Zélande les va-nu-pieds sont rois ! |url=https://vivreauckland.blogspot.com/2017/12/en-nouvelle-zelande-les-va-nu-pieds.html |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=Vivre Auckland |archive-date=November 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124194517/https://vivreauckland.blogspot.com/2017/12/en-nouvelle-zelande-les-va-nu-pieds.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2015-06-14 |title='Striking' number of Kiwis walk around barefoot - NY Times - National News {{!}} TVNZ |url=http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/striking-number-kiwis-walk-around-barefoot-ny-times-4835491 |access-date=2024-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614055413/http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/striking-number-kiwis-walk-around-barefoot-ny-times-4835491 |archive-date=June 14, 2015 }}

In 2010, an American academic missed a high-level academic post because of a letter she wrote to the New Zealand magazine Listener lamenting New Zealand’s habit of going barefoot in public: she described the practice as “not only backward and uncivilized, but dangerously unhygienic and repugnant to North Americans”.{{Cite web |title=Attack on shoeless Kiwis costs lecturer job |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/3203837/Attack-on-shoeless-Kiwis-costs-lecturer-job |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=Stuff |archive-date=April 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412180112/http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/3203837/Attack-on-shoeless-Kiwis-costs-lecturer-job |url-status=live }}

In 2012, a travel writer for The New York Times wrote the number of New Zealanders barefoot in public, including shops was "striking".{{cite web|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/striking-number-kiwis-walk-around-barefoot-ny-times-4835491|title='Striking' number of Kiwis walk around barefoot |date=April 16, 2012|website=tvnz.co.nz|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614055413/http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/striking-number-kiwis-walk-around-barefoot-ny-times-4835491|archive-date=June 14, 2015|url-status=dead|access-date=June 12, 2015}} In 2014, Air New Zealand was subject of critical attention after allegedly forcing a customer to wear shoes.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-11 |title=Danielle Murray: Bare feet soothing to the sole and the soul |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/danielle-murray-bare-feet-soothing-to-the-sole-and-the-soul/V2VPHRB2DBB4EU7Z2ARXUVEKM4/ |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=The New Zealand Herald |language=en-NZ |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193744/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/danielle-murray-bare-feet-soothing-to-the-sole-and-the-soul/V2VPHRB2DBB4EU7Z2ARXUVEKM4/ |url-status=live }}

In many branches of Romani culture across the world, it is traditional for women to dance barefoot.{{cn|date=August 2021}}

In Spain, driving barefoot or with flip-flops is not illegal, but drivers found to be impaired in their freedom of movement or control of the vehicle by lack of proper footwear may be fined up to €200.{{Cite web |title=Peut-on conduire pieds-nus, en tongs ou en claquettes ? |url=https://www.largus.fr/actualite-automobile/peut-on-conduire-pieds-nus-en-tongs-ou-en-claquettes-10677413.html |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=www.largus.fr |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193740/https://www.largus.fr/actualite-automobile/peut-on-conduire-pieds-nus-en-tongs-ou-en-claquettes-10677413.html |url-status=live }}

In South Africa, barefoot walking in public is part of the predominantly white Afrikaans-speaking culture, although English speaking people also often walk barefoot in public, especially in the summer months and in cities such as Cape Town. The National Guidelines on School Uniform list shoes as an optional item{{cite web |url=http://www.education.gov.za/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=8NYok1lRKBs%3D&tabid=453&mid=469 |title=Schedule: National Guidelines on School Uniform |website=Education.gov.za |access-date=November 27, 2015 |archive-date=September 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923233912/http://www.education.gov.za/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=8NYok1lRKBs%3D&tabid=453&mid=469 |url-status=live }} while the Draft Guidelines state "Pupils, especially in lower grades, should also be permitted to attend without shoes in hot weather". Most children attend school barefoot. In many schools, the dress codes either encourage children to attend school barefoot or prefer children to attend school barefoot, especially in the summer months.{{cn|date=July 2022}}

Some South African schools have sport uniforms where bare feet are compulsory, such as primary school rugby. Another sport where bare feet for kids are compulsory is "tou trek" or tug of war, sometimes school play and sports days barefeet are compulsory. Being barefoot in public is generally tolerated. In South African shopping malls, stores, and events, it is not an uncommon sight to see barefoot adults and children.

In 2023, James Graham—an Englishman who has run more than 20 marathons barefoot—was asked to leave a McDonald’s in Sussex due to a lack of footwear.{{Cite web |date=2023-03-10 |title=James se fait expulser du McDonald's pour sa tenue jugée inappropriée: «C'est étrange de prendre cette décision en une fraction de seconde» |url=https://www.sudinfo.be/id631126/article/2023-03-10/james-se-fait-expulser-du-mcdonalds-pour-sa-tenue-jugee-inappropriee-cest |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=sudinfo.be |language=fr |archive-date=March 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230311074928/https://www.sudinfo.be/id631126/article/2023-03-10/james-se-fait-expulser-du-mcdonalds-pour-sa-tenue-jugee-inappropriee-cest |url-status=live }}

In some parts of the United States, taboos against barefoot walking are strong.{{cite news|work=The Gazette|last=McGlothlen|first=John|date=October 18, 2010|title=Professor on barefoot crusade to challenge 'shoe-obsessed society'}}{{cite news|last=Hartocollis|first=Anemona|work=The New York Times|date=May 26, 2008|title=Barefoot in the Park? Watch Your Step|access-date=1 October 2022|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/26/nyregion/26barefoot.html|url-access=limited|archive-date=October 1, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001190805/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/26/nyregion/26barefoot.html|url-status=live}} Youngstown, Ohio, actually had an ordinance prohibiting barefooting until it was struck down as unconstitutional.{{cite web|title=Gadsden Times|date=April 23, 1969|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1891&dat=19690423&id=-KsfAAAAIBAJ&pg=5080,3238801|ref=Youngstown barefoot ordinance|access-date=May 12, 2020|archive-date=May 8, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220508125656/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1891&dat=19690423&id=-KsfAAAAIBAJ&pg=5080,3238801|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Curran v. City of Youngstown (Apr. 21, 1969)|url=https://www.ahcuah.com/fflib/cases/curran.htm|access-date=September 10, 2022|archive-date=January 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129053041/https://www.ahcuah.com/fflib/cases/curran.htm|url-status=live}} However, in the 18th to the early 20th centuries, many children in rural areas of America often went barefoot due to poverty.{{cite journal|last=Burns|first=Sarah|journal=The American Art Journal|volume=20|issue=1|date=1988|pages=25–50|title=Barefoot Boys and Other Country Children: Sentiment and Ideology in Nineteenth-Century American Art|doi=10.2307/1594494 |jstor=1594494}}

It is legal to drive a car barefoot in the United States,{{Cite web |date=2009-04-30 |title=Barefoot FAQ #18 |url=http://www.barefooters.org/faq/18.html |access-date=2023-12-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090430105112/http://www.barefooters.org/faq/18.html |archive-date=April 30, 2009 }} but it depends on the state{{Cite web |last=Administrator |first=Site |date=2022-07-13 |title=Is It Illegal to Drive Barefoot in CA? {{!}} Kistler Law Firm |url=https://www.kistlerlawfirm.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-ca/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Kistler Law Firm, APC. |language=en |archive-date=August 8, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808135352/https://www.kistlerlawfirm.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-ca/ |url-status=live }} and it is not the case for motorcycles.{{Cite web |date=2014-02-22 |title=Driving Barefoot |url=http://www.barefooters.org/driving/index.html |access-date=2023-12-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222034855/http://www.barefooters.org/driving/index.html |archive-date=February 22, 2014 }}

File:Subhasta.JPG

Amish women are usually barefooted when at their house and farm.{{Cite web |date=2015-09-10 |title=Amish Clothing |url=https://www.amishvillage.com/blog/amish-clothing/ |access-date=2023-12-25 |website=The Amish Village |language=en |archive-date=March 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305150447/https://www.amishvillage.com/blog/amish-clothing/ |url-status=live }}

In some social circles, walking barefoot serves as part of bohemian hippie fashion.{{Cite web |last1=Bowen |first1=Catherine |last2=Cowley |first2=Emma |last3=Casey |first3=Joanne |date=2023-07-14 |title=Is the 'barefoot-boy summer' trend bad for your feet? Experts explain |url=http://theconversation.com/is-the-barefoot-boy-summer-trend-bad-for-your-feet-experts-explain-208901 |access-date=2023-12-25 |website=The Conversation |language=en-US |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725193741/https://theconversation.com/is-the-barefoot-boy-summer-trend-bad-for-your-feet-experts-explain-208901 |url-status=live }}

In the province of Tuyen Quang, in northern Vietnam, the Pa Then ethnic group organizes a ritual during which men dance barefoot on embers. The purpose of this dance is to exorcise demons and get good harvests.{{Cite web |date=2023-02-06 |title=Vidéo. Vietnam : ils marchent sur la braise et perpétuent la tradition de l'ethnie Pa Then |url=https://fr.euronews.com/video/2023/02/06/vietnam-ils-marchent-sur-la-braise-et-perpetuent-la-tradition-de-lethnie-pa-then |access-date=2024-02-10 |website=euronews |language=fr |archive-date=April 14, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240414152828/https://fr.euronews.com/video/2023/02/06/vietnam-ils-marchent-sur-la-braise-et-perpetuent-la-tradition-de-lethnie-pa-then |url-status=live }}

{{see also|List of barefooters}}

File:Woman wearing tank top and leggings.jpg

Many singers and dancers perform on stage barefoot. The classical dance of Cambodia had its roots in the holy dances of the legendary seductresses (apsaras) of ancient Cambodia and attained its high point during the Angkor period in its interpretations of the Indian epics, especially the Ramayana. Cambodian dancers were well-born women of the king's harem and danced barefoot, with the feet turned outwards and the legs slightly bent at the knee to cushion the movements of the upper body. The unimpeded movement of the foot was essential to the art. When the land was invaded by the Thai, the dancers were taken to the Thai court, where their art was adapted and continued to flourish.{{cite book |last=Colet |first=John |author2=Joshua Eliot |author3=Abigail Vertigan |year=2002 |title=Cambodian Handbook |publisher=Footprint |isbn=1-903471-40-0 |page=218 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3nVUxKL29ZwC&q=cambodia+dance+bare+foot+feet&pg=PA218 |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122044/https://books.google.com/books?id=3nVUxKL29ZwC&q=cambodia+dance+bare+foot+feet&pg=PA218 |url-status=live }}{{cite book |last=Brown |first=Ian |year=2000 |title=Cambodia |publisher=Oxfam GB |isbn=0-85598-430-9 |page=71 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bK11j2IdbC0C&q=cambodia+dance+bare+foot+feet&pg=PA71 |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122045/https://books.google.com/books?id=bK11j2IdbC0C&q=cambodia+dance+bare+foot+feet&pg=PA71#v=onepage&q=cambodia%20dance%20bare%20foot%20feet&f=false |url-status=live }}

The barefoot dance movement of the early 20th century challenged the received laws of classical dance and the broader laws of social decorum. For decades, the bare foot had been perceived as obscene, and no matter how determined barefoot dancers were to validate their art with reference to spiritual, artistic, historic, and organic concepts, barefoot dancing was inextricably linked in the public mind with indecency and sexual taboo. In 1908, Maud Allan shocked and fascinated London theatre-goers with her barefoot dance of desire in Salome, and scandalous tributes positioned her as the embodiment of lust. For many, barefoot dancing represented not only the freedom and horror of modern sexuality but the progress and decline of high culture.{{cite book |editor1=Benstock, Shari |editor1-link=Shari Benstock |editor2=Ferriss, Suzanne |year=2001 |title=Footnotes: On Shoes |publisher=Rutgers University Press |isbn=0-8135-2870-4 |pages=276–78 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tUK8BP7OOJQC&q=Footnotes:+On+Shoes |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122045/https://books.google.com/books?id=tUK8BP7OOJQC&q=Footnotes:+On+Shoes#v=snippet&q=Footnotes%3A%20On%20Shoes&f=false |url-status=live }}

File:Isadora Duncan (grayscale).jpg performing barefoot during her 1915–18 American tour]]

Californian Isadora Duncan revolutionized dance in the Western world by jettisoning the tutu and the pointe shoe of classical ballet and scandalized audiences by performing works of her own choreography in flowing draperies and bare feet. She anticipated the modern women's liberation movement by urging women to rid themselves of corsets and matrimony.{{cite book |last=Needham |first=Maureen |year=2002 |title=I See America Dancing: Selected Readings, 1685–2000 |publisher=University of Illinois Press |isbn=978-0-252-06999-4 |page=174 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=powGjotbu9kC&q=I+See+America+Dancing:+Selected+Readings,+1685-2000 |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122132/https://books.google.com/books?id=powGjotbu9kC&q=I+See+America+Dancing:+Selected+Readings,+1685-2000#v=snippet&q=I%20See%20America%20Dancing%3A%20Selected%20Readings%2C%201685-2000&f=false |url-status=live }} Duncan divorced the bare foot from perceptions of obscenity and made a conscious effort to link barefoot dancing to ideals such as "nudity, childhood, the idyllic past, flowing lines, health, nobility, ease, freedom, simplicity, order, and harmony". She believed her utopian dance vision and program would ameliorate the perceived ills of modern life and restore the world to the imagined perfection of Ancient Greece.

The 1954 film The Barefoot Contessa tells the fictional story of Maria Vargas (portrayed by Ava Gardner), a Spanish cabaret dancer of simple origins who frequently went barefoot. She was cast in a movie by writer and director Harry Dawes (portrayed by Humphrey Bogart) and became a major star. In 1978, Ina Garten purchased a specialty food store in The Hamptons named Barefoot Contessa, after the movie. She liked the name because it went well with her simple and elegant cooking style. She sold the store in 1999 and wrote her first book, The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, which became one of the best-selling cookbooks of the year. She would go on to write more cookbooks and, in 2002, started production of a television show on the Food Network, also named the Barefoot Contessa, which continues to run.{{cite web|title=Ina Garten (biography)|url=http://www.foodnetwork.com/chefs/ina-garten/index.html|publisher=Food Network|access-date=July 10, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100630134851/http://www.foodnetwork.com/chefs/ina-garten/index.html|archive-date=June 30, 2010|url-status=dead}}

File:Joss Stone 08 (8132151434).jpg performing barefoot on stage]]

In the latter half of the 20th century, many singers, primarily women, have performed barefoot, a trend that continues in the early 21st century. One of the first singers to become well known for singing barefoot on stage was Sandie Shaw, who became known as the "Barefoot Pop Princess of the 1960s".{{cite book|last=Roberts |first=David|title=British Hit Singles & Albums|edition=19th|year=2006|location=London|publisher= Guinness World Records Limited|isbn=1-904994-10-5|page=495|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5fZvPwAACAAJ}} Jimmy Buffett was known for performing barefoot at concerts, promoting an island/beach bum lifestyle.{{cite news|last=Carter |first=Lauren |title=Jimmy Buffett a god to lei persons |url=http://news.bostonherald.com/entertainment/music/general/view/20100619jimmy_buffett_a_god_to_lei_persons/srvc=home&position=also |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100627125640/http://news.bostonherald.com/entertainment/music/general/view/20100619jimmy_buffett_a_god_to_lei_persons/srvc%3Dhome%26position%3Dalso |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 27, 2010 |access-date=July 1, 2010 |newspaper=The Edge |date=June 19, 2010 }} Cesária Évora of Cape Verde was known as the "Barefoot Diva" for her habit of performing without shoes.{{cite news|title=French honour for 'barefoot diva'|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7879515.stm|access-date=July 1, 2010|publisher=BBC News|date=February 9, 2009|archive-date=February 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212102030/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7879515.stm|url-status=live}} British singer Joss Stone is well known for performing barefoot{{Cite news |last=Brescia |first=Joe |date=2005-03-20 |title=Barefootin' |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/20/arts/music/barefootin.html |url-access=limited |access-date=2022-10-01 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=October 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001191439/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/20/arts/music/barefootin.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Sterdan |first=article:Darryl |date=November 5, 2012 |title=Joss Stone balanced in bare feet |url=https://torontosun.com/2012/11/05/joss-stone-balanced-in-bare-feet |access-date=2022-10-01 |newspaper=Toronto Sun |language=en-CA |archive-date=May 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510220223/https://torontosun.com/2012/11/05/joss-stone-balanced-in-bare-feet |url-status=live }} and was referred to as a "barefoot diva" by The Guardian in 2004.{{Cite web |last=Vernon |first=Polly |date=2004-01-18 |title=Joss Stone: the barefoot diva |url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2004/jan/18/popandrock.shopping1 |access-date=2022-10-01 |website=The Guardian |language=en |archive-date=October 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005195725/https://www.theguardian.com/music/2004/jan/18/popandrock.shopping1 |url-status=live }}

At the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, some attendees go barefoot on the grass ground, sometimes for fashion. Celebrities who have gone barefoot at the festival include Vanessa Hudgens,{{cite news |last1=Johnson |first1=Zach |title=Vanessa Hudgens Can't Wait for Coachella: "I Love Being Barefoot" and "Listening to Music" |url=https://www.eonline.com/news/505876/vanessa-hudgens-can-t-wait-for-coachella-i-love-being-barefoot-and-listening-to-music |date=January 31, 2014 |ref=E! Online |access-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110062449/https://www.eonline.com/news/505876/vanessa-hudgens-can-t-wait-for-coachella-i-love-being-barefoot-and-listening-to-music |url-status=live }} Isabel Lucas,{{cite web |last1=Nazarian |first1=Melody |title=Celeb Style at Coachella — See Then Shop Their Killer Festival Looks |url=https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/photo-gallery/22537820/image/22537849/Isabel-Lucas |website=PopSugar |date=April 12, 2012 |access-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110062455/https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/photo-gallery/22537820/image/22537849/Isabel-Lucas |url-status=live }} Alessandra Ambrosio,{{cite web |title=6 Reasons We Love Alessandra Ambrosio |url=https://www.gq.com/story/alessandra-ambrosio-gq-cover-star |website=GQ |date=January 19, 2016 |access-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110062448/https://www.gq.com/story/alessandra-ambrosio-gq-cover-star |url-status=live }} Gigi Hadid{{cite web |last1=Wasilak |first1=Sarah |title=The Best Outfits Gigi and Kendall Wore to Coachella — and What You Need to Pull Them Off |url=https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/photo-gallery/40889495/image/40889696/Gigi-Hadid-Festival-Essentials |website=PopSugar |date=April 22, 2016 |access-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110062449/https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/photo-gallery/40889495/image/40889696/Gigi-Hadid-Festival-Essentials |url-status=live }} and Ashley Benson.{{cite web |last1=Riedlinger |first1=Megan |title=Best and Worst of Coachella Fashion |url=https://www.wonderwall.com/style/fashion/best-and-worst-coachella-fashion-3005059.gallery |website=Wonderwall.com |date=April 23, 2022 |access-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110062449/https://www.wonderwall.com/style/fashion/best-and-worst-coachella-fashion-3005059.gallery |url-status=live }}

There are risks and benefits associated with going barefoot. Footwear provides some protection from puncture wounds from glass, nails, rocks, or thorns as well as abrasions, bruises, heat burns, electrical shock, and frostbite. Feet that have never worn shoes rarely exhibit problems such as bunions, corns, and "fallen arches",{{cite journal |vauthors=Rao UB, Joseph B |s2cid=42355530 |title=The influence of footwear on the prevalence of flat foot. A survey of 2300 children |journal=J Bone Joint Surg Br |volume=74-B |issue=4 |pages=525–27 |date=July 1992 |pmid=1624509 |issn=0301-620X|doi=10.1302/0301-620X.74B4.1624509 |doi-access=free }}{{cite journal |vauthors=Sachithandam V, Joseph B |s2cid=537906 |title=The influence of footwear on the prevalence of flat foot. A survey of 1846 mature persons |journal=J Bone Joint Surg Br |volume=77-B |issue=2 |pages=254–57 |date=March 1995 |pmid=7706341 |issn=0301-620X|doi=10.1302/0301-620X.77B2.7706341 |doi-access=free }} are not prone to more than ordinary foot eversion on standing and walking due to the associated weakness or stiffness of the joints of the foot and weakness of the muscles controlling them,{{cite journal |last=Hoffmann |first=P |title=Conclusions drawn from a comparative study of the feet of barefooted and shoe-wearing peoples |journal=J Bone Joint Surg Am |volume=2 |issue=3 |pages=105–36 |date=October 1905 |url=http://bsmpg.com/Portals/52884/docs/1905Hoffman.pdf |access-date=June 1, 2014 |archive-date=June 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602195159/http://bsmpg.com/Portals/52884/docs/1905Hoffman.pdf |url-status=dead }} as well as having a much reduced incidence of problems such as callouses.{{cite journal|last=Zipfel|first=B.|author2=L.R. Berger|title=Shod versus unshod: The emergence of forefoot pathology in modern humans?|journal=The Foot|date=May 17, 2007|volume=17|issue=4|pages=205–213|doi=10.1016/j.foot.2007.06.002}}

Walking barefoot results in a more natural gait. People who are used to walking barefoot tend to land less forcefully, eliminating the hard heel strike and generating much less collision force in the foot and lower leg, allowing for a rocking motion of the foot from heel to toe.{{cite news|last=Sternbergh |first=Adam |title=You Walk Wrong |url=http://nymag.com/health/features/46213/ |access-date=June 26, 2010 |newspaper=New York |date=April 21, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080422191147/http://nymag.com/health/features/46213/ |archive-date=April 22, 2008 |url-status=live }} Similarly, barefoot running usually involves an initial forefoot strike, instead of on the rear of the foot, generating smaller collision forces. A 2006 study found that shoes may increase stress on the knee and ankle, and suggested that adults who walked barefoot may have a lower rate of osteoarthritis,{{cite journal |vauthors=Shakoor N, Block JA |s2cid=11769504 |title=Walking barefoot decreases loading on the lower extremity joints in knee osteoarthritis |journal=Arthritis Rheum. |volume=54 |issue=9 |pages=2923–27 |year=2006 |pmid=16947448 |doi=10.1002/art.22123|doi-access=free }} although more study is required to elucidate the factors that distribute loads in shod and barefoot walking. A 2007 study examined 180 modern humans and compared their feet with 2,000-year-old skeletons. They concluded that, before the invention of shoes, humans overall had healthier feet. A 1991 study found that children who wore shoes were three times more likely to have flat feet than those who did not, and suggested that wearing shoes in early childhood can be detrimental to the longitudinal arch of the foot. Children who habitually go barefoot were found to have stronger feet, with better flexibility and mobility, fewer deformities like flat feet or toes that curve inwards, and fewer complaints.{{cite news|last=Angier|first=Natalie|title=Which Shoes Are Best For Children? Maybe None|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/08/14/news/which-shoes-are-best-for-children-maybe-none.html|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=The New York Times|date=August 14, 1991|archive-date=September 5, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090905074204/http://www.nytimes.com/1991/08/14/news/which-shoes-are-best-for-children-maybe-none.html|url-status=live}}

Since there is no artificial protection of the bare foot, some of the possible issues include cuts, abrasions, bruises, or puncture wounds from glass, nails, rocks, or thorns, as well as poisonous plants, animals, or parasites that can enter the body through the cuts on an injured bare foot.{{cite journal |last=Staheli |first=LT |title=Shoes for children: a review |journal=Pediatrics |volume=88 |issue=2 |pages=371–75 |year=1991 |doi=10.1542/peds.88.2.371 |pmid=1861942 |s2cid=27599702 }} In people who are not habitually barefoot, athlete's foot is spread by fungal spores coming into contact with skin that has been weakened and made moist. The fungus is known to only affect around 0.75% of habitually barefoot people in one study{{citation needed|date=June 2024}} and can be prevented by reducing shoe use and keeping the feet dry, particularly after walking through a damp environment where people communally walk barefoot as the fungus only develops under the right conditions, such as when people fail to properly dry their feet after swimming or showering and then put on shoes. Wearing shoes such as flip flops or sandals in these areas can reduce the risk.{{cite web|last=Hyde|first=Patricia|title=Athlete's Foot|url=http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/skin/athletes_foot.html|website=kidshealth.org|access-date=July 1, 2010|archive-date=June 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100615065943/http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/skin/athletes_foot.html|url-status=live}}

The hookworm parasite, found in warm, moist climates where human feces contaminated with hookworm larvae has been left in places where it might come into contact with human skin, can burrow through a bare human foot (or any part of the body that comes into contact with it).{{cite news |url=https://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/hookworm/factsht_hookworm.htm |title=Hookworm Infection |date=2008-09-11 |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |access-date=August 4, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000301095412/http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/hookworm/factsht_hookworm.htm |archive-date=2000-03-01 |url-status=live }} The parasite may spread through contaminated material coming into contact with any part of the body, such as through flecks of mud splashing on an ankle or leg.{{cite journal |last=Payne |first=George C. |title=Penetration by Infective Hookworm Larvae of the Materials Used in the Manufacture of Shoesb|url=http://www.ajtmh.org/content/s1-9/1/79.citation |journal=The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130223162354/http://www.ajtmh.org/content/s1-9/1/79.citation |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-02-23 |access-date=2012-10-26}}

Issues that can develop as a result of someone who has always worn shoes going barefoot include calf pain or Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis due to shortening of the Achilles tendon and the foot being underdeveloped, due to regular use of shoes. A careful transition eases or removes symptoms, which quickly vanish as the foot adapts.{{cite web |last=Quinn |first=Elizabeth |title=Barefoot Running – The Pros and Cons of Going Shoeless |url=http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/runningworkouts/a/Barefoot-Running.htm |website=About.com |access-date=June 26, 2010 |archive-date=December 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101204051634/http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/runningworkouts/a/Barefoot-Running.htm |url-status=dead}}. Blisters on the feet may occur in the first few weeks of going barefoot, until the skin has become more robust. Individuals with diabetes or other conditions that affect sensation in the feet are at greater risk of injury while barefoot. The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics wear shoes and socks at all times.{{cite web|title=Foot Care. |url=http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/foot-complications/foot-care.html |publisher=American Diabetes Association |access-date=June 26, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111107213834/http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/foot-complications/foot-care.html |archive-date=November 7, 2011 |url-status=live }}

In the United States, there have been myths that regulations require the wearing of footwear. In the United States, during the period of the counterculture movement of the 1960s, business establishments would deny admittance to barefoot hippies arguing that health regulations required that shoes be worn.{{cite news|url=http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/1088537.html |title=Going barefoot |last=Miller |first=Joe |date=May 29, 2008 |work=The News and Observer |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080602011040/http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/1088537.html |archive-date=June 2, 2008 }} This led to a belief by many in nonexistent OSHA or local health department regulations preventing people from going to stores, restaurants, and other establishments without shoes. However, those regulations that exist apply only to employees and not customers.{{cite web|url=http://www.barefooters.org/osha.html |title=Bare Feet and OSHA |date=January 7, 2006 |website=barefooters.org |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090524040917/http://barefooters.org/osha.html |archive-date=May 24, 2009 }} Specifically, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires employers to "ensure that each affected employee uses protective footwear" when there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling objects, objects piercing the sole of an employee's foot, and where an employee's feet may be exposed to electrical hazards.{{cite news|last=Chow |first=Andrew |title=Is Going Barefoot at Work a Step Too Far? |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2012/05/02/tagblogsfindlawcom2012-freeenterprise-idUS286283164820120502 |access-date=May 2, 2012 |newspaper=Reuters |date=May 2, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508074700/http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/05/02/tagblogsfindlawcom2012-freeenterprise-idUS286283164820120502 |archive-date=May 8, 2012 }} Additionally, employee footwear, where required by OSHA, must comply with one of the standards described in OSHA's regulations. State and local laws may dictate when and where an employee must wear shoes.

Some people speculate that driving barefoot increases the risk of an accident if bare feet slip off the pedals.{{cite news|url=http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/1088537.html |title=Legal myths, rumors about driving barefoot busted |last=Lawson |first=Alex |date=September 6, 2007 |work=The Daily Vidette |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080602011040/http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/1088537.html |archive-date=June 2, 2008 }} It is legal throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom to drive barefoot.{{cite web|url=http://www.barefooters.org/faq/18.html |title=Q18: Is it legal to drive barefoot? |date=July 13, 2004 |website=barefooters.org |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090430105112/http://www.barefooters.org/faq/18.html |archive-date=April 30, 2009 }}{{cite news|url=http://www.ocregister.com/articles/driving-california-shoes-2027147-vehicle-barefoot|title=HONK: The myth about driving barefoot|last=Hernandez|first=Salvador|date=April 25, 2008|access-date=August 5, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907062322/http://www.ocregister.com/news/driving-181942-california-shoes.html|archive-date=September 7, 2015|url-status=dead|newspaper=The Orange County Register}} However, in some US jurisdictions, police officers may ticket a driver for other things if the fact that they were driving barefoot or in flip-flops/high heeled shoes hindered their driving and/or resulted in an accident.{{cite web|url=http://www.barefooters.org/driving/index.html |title=Definitive Answer to Driving Barefoot in America |access-date=February 15, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222034855/http://www.barefooters.org/driving/index.html |archive-date=February 22, 2014 }} Driving barefoot may also potentially be used in the case of an accident to put the driver more at fault.{{cite web |title=Is It Illegal to Drive Barefoot in CA? |url=https://www.kistlerlawfirm.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-ca/ |website=KistlerLawFirm |date=July 13, 2022 |access-date=July 14, 2022 |archive-date=August 8, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808135352/https://www.kistlerlawfirm.com/is-it-illegal-to-drive-barefoot-in-ca/ |url-status=live }}

File:Discobolus in National Roman Museum Palazzo Massimo alle Terme.JPG thrower]]

There are several recreational activities one can participate in while barefoot. Those involved in water sports such as swimming and water polo almost always participate barefoot due to the difficulty of swimming with footwear.

Other common activities performed barefoot include yoga, pilates, hiking, running, driving, water skiing, touch rugby, soccer, beach volleyball, surfing, tubing, gymnastics, slacklining, and martial arts. Wrestling can be done barefoot. Although most modern Greco-Roman and WWE wrestlers wear shoes, sumo wrestling, Yağlı güreş (oil or "Turkish" wrestling), and mud wrestling are commonly done while barefoot. Fijian wrestler Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka of the WWE has wrestled barefoot as well.{{cite news|last=Traina |first=Jimmy |title=Favorite Wrestlers of All Time |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/si_blogs/scorecard/jimmys_blog/2006/06/favorite-wrestlers-of-all-time.html |access-date=July 10, 2010 |newspaper=Sports Illustrated |date=June 12, 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407185431/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/si_blogs/scorecard/jimmys_blog/2006/06/favorite-wrestlers-of-all-time.html |archive-date=April 7, 2008 }} American football is not traditionally a barefoot sport, though several placekickers have preferred to kick barefoot, including Tony Franklin of the Philadelphia Eagles and Rich Karlis of the Denver Broncos.{{cite news|last=Gehman|first=Jim|title=Where Are They Now: PK Tony Franklin|url=http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=12521|access-date=June 27, 2010|newspaper=Philadelphia Eagles|date=May 5, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100619135621/http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=12521|archive-date=June 19, 2010|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|last=Moss|first=Irv|title=Karlis a standout as barefoot kicker|url=http://www.denverpost.com/ci_11559948?source=bb|access-date=June 27, 2010|newspaper=Denver Post|date=January 27, 2009|archive-date=October 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016030435/http://www.denverpost.com/ci_11559948?source=bb|url-status=live}} The two schools of thought involved in barefoot placekicking were that the lack of a shoe provided the kicker with a better "feel" for the ball and greater control over its trajectory. The second theory is that shoes and socks absorbed kinetic energy, and kicking flesh-to-leather created more torque.{{cite news|last=Klosterman|first=Chuck|title=A brilliant idea! (For now)|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=klosterman/061016|access-date=June 27, 2010|newspaper=ESPN|date=October 16, 2006|archive-date=July 17, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717085104/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=klosterman/061016|url-status=live}}

Barefoot hikers claim that they feel a sense of communion with the earth and enjoy the sheer pleasure of feeling more of the world with their feet.{{cite news|last=Todras-Whitehill|first=Ethan|title=Footloose and Boot Free: Barefoot Hiking.|url=http://travel.nytimes.com/2006/09/22/travel/escapes/22hike.html|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=The New York Times|date=September 22, 2006|archive-date=May 20, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110520044153/http://travel.nytimes.com/2006/09/22/travel/escapes/22hike.html|url-status=live}} There are several clubs throughout North America practicing regular barefoot hikes, including the Barefoot Hikers of Minnesota, Seattle Barefoot Hikers, East Bay Barefoot Hikers, the Barefoot Hikers and Grass Walkers of Greater Kansas City, and the Barefoot Hikers of Connecticut.{{cite news|last=Pauly |first=Brett |title=Sole Survivors: New shoeless joes are hitting dusty trails around San Francisco Bay and beyond. |url=http://barefooters.org/hikers/publicity/la_daily_news.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19961029205731/http://www.barefooters.org/hikers/publicity/la_daily_news.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 29, 1996 |access-date=June 26, 2010 |newspaper=Los Angeles Daily News |date=March 21, 1996 }}{{cite web|title=Barefoot Hiking Groups|url=http://www.barefoothub.com/barefoot-hiking-groups/|website=The Barefoot Hub|access-date=April 16, 2015|archive-date=November 10, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110223215/http://www.barefoothub.com/barefoot-hiking-groups/|url-status=dead}} This is in part also undertaken to be reminiscent of former slaves, who were often forced to remain barefoot at all times (see above).{{cite news|last=Lanza |first=Michael |title=The Happy Hoofers |url=http://barefooters.org/hikers/publicity/yankee.txt |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19961029205838/http://www.barefooters.org/hikers/publicity/yankee.txt |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 29, 1996 |access-date=June 26, 2010 |newspaper=Yankee Magazine |date=July 1995 |via=Society for Barefoot Living}}{{cite web | last=Shelton | first=Jim | title=In Conn. barefoot hiking club, tenderfoots welcome | website=Foster's Daily Democrat | date=2010-06-22 | url=https://www.fosters.com/story/lifestyle/family/2010/06/22/in-conn-barefoot-hiking-club/51567012007/ | access-date=2024-08-01}} Two sisters, Lucy and Susan Letcher, hiked approximately two-thirds of the {{convert|2,175|mi|km|adj=on}} Appalachian Trail barefoot from June 21, 2000, to October 3, 2001.{{cite news|last=Belisle |first=Richard F. |title=Barefoot hikers return to Appalachian Trail for book tour |url=http://www.herald-mail.com/?cmd=displaystory&story_id=228195&format=html |access-date=June 28, 2010 |newspaper=The Herald-Mail |date=August 5, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090610000113/http://www.herald-mail.com/?cmd=displaystory |archive-date=June 10, 2009 |url-status=live }}{{cite book |title=The Barefoot Sisters: Southbound |first1=Lucy |last1=Letcher |first2=Susan |last2=Letcher |year=2009 |publisher=Stackpole Books |isbn=978-0-8117-3530-8 |page=474}} On November 12, 2010, 2,500 people in Mahabubnagar, India, participated in a barefoot walk, which was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest.{{cite web |title=Largest Barefoot Walk |url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/8000/largest-barefoot-walk |publisher=Guinness World Records |access-date=July 16, 2012 |archive-date=October 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024230209/http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/8000/largest-barefoot-walk |url-status=live }}

In European nations, including Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, there are barefoot parks or walks.{{cite news|last=Owen|first=Wena Alun|title=Challenge senses on barefoot walk.|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/north_west/7955356.stm|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=BBC News|date=March 20, 2009|archive-date=March 24, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324230302/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/north_west/7955356.stm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Public Barefoot Parks in Europe.|url=http://www.barfusspark.info/en/park.htm |website=barfusspark.info|access-date=June 26, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100605081950/http://www.barfusspark.info/en/park.htm| archive-date= June 5, 2010 | url-status= live}} These parks are kept clean and maintained on a regular basis, so that barefoot hiking can be done in an environment suitable for people who are habitually shod. Barefoot parks usually include a lot of adventure stations, allowing visitors to experience the feeling of soil textures underfoot; to wade through rivers, mud, brooks, or ponds; and to exercise foot gymnastics, balancing, and climbing. The Barfußpfad (barefoot trail) at Bad Sobernheim in Germany attracts over 100,000 visitors annually and has seen approximately 1 million visitors since its inception in 1999.{{cite news|title=Fast eine Million Menschen.|url=http://www.allgemeine-zeitung.de/region/bad-kreuznach-bad-sobernheim-kirn/vg-bad-sobernheim/sobernheim/7927509.htm|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=Allgemeine Beitung|date=November 25, 2009|language=de|archive-date=July 23, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723150038/http://www.allgemeine-zeitung.de/region/bad-kreuznach-bad-sobernheim-kirn/vg-bad-sobernheim/sobernheim/7927509.htm|url-status=live}}

This concept was first developed in the 19th century by Sebastian Kneipp, one of the founders of the Naturopathic medicine movement. He believed that applying your feet to a range of natural stimuli would have therapeutic benefits. This is related to the ancient practice of reflexology, practiced in China for thousands of years for relaxation and to promote longevity.{{cite news|last=Wignall|first=Alice|title=Get your socks off|url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2008/mar/25/healthandwellbeing.walkingholidays|access-date=July 1, 2010|newspaper=The Guardian|date=March 25, 2008|archive-date=November 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104194332/http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2008/mar/25/healthandwellbeing.walkingholidays|url-status=live}}

Seoul, South Korea, has 158 barefoot parks, allowing people to relax in a natural environment.{{cite news|title=158 barefoot parks in Seoul |url=http://english.seoul.go.kr/gtk/news/news_view.php?idx=413 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130218204705/http://english.seoul.go.kr/gtk/news/news_view.php?idx=413 |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 18, 2013 |access-date=June 26, 2010 |newspaper=seoul.go.kr |date=May 12, 2006 }}

{{main|Barefoot running}}

Many leisure and competitive runners have been known to run barefoot, including well-known athletes Zola Budd of South Africa and Abebe Bikila of Ethiopia.{{cite journal|last=Warburton|first=Michael |title=Barefoot Running |journal=Sportscience|date=Sep–Dec 2001|volume=5|issue=3 |url=http://sportsci.org/jour/0103/mw.htm|access-date=June 27, 2010 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100722064341/http://www.sportsci.org/jour/0103/mw.htm| archive-date= July 22, 2010 | url-status= live}} Todd Ragsdale, of Talent, Oregon, set the world record (pending confirmation by Guinness World Records) for the longest distance run barefoot on June 5, 2010, as part of the Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. He logged {{convert|102|mi|km}}, or 413 laps on the South Medford High School track, barefoot.{{cite news |last=Burke |first=Anita |title=Todd Ragsdale endures The agony of the feet |url=http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100608/NEWS/6080317/-1/NEWSMAP |access-date=July 1, 2010 |newspaper=Mail Tribune |date=June 8, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100610195008/http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20100608%2FNEWS%2F6080317%2F-1%2FNEWSMAP |archive-date=June 10, 2010 |url-status=dead }} The fastest person to run 100 meters (325 feet) on ice while barefoot is Nico Surings of Eindhoven, Netherlands, who ran that distance in 17.35 seconds on December 8, 2006.{{cite web|title=Fastest run 100 metres barefoot on ice|url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/amazing_feats/unusual_skills/Fastest_run_100_metres_barefoot_on_ice.aspx|publisher=Guinness World Records|access-date=July 1, 2010|archive-date=March 19, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100319003731/http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/amazing_feats/unusual_skills/Fastest_run_100_metres_barefoot_on_ice.aspx|url-status=live}} Laboratory studies suggest that, due to the lack of extra weight on the feet, the energy cost of running barefoot is reduced by 4%, resulting in lower oxygen consumption. There is evidence that wearing traditional shoes while running leads to heel strike gait that, in turn, leads to higher impact as well as a greater risk of injury. Barefoot running encourages the runner to switch to forefoot strike and may reduce the risk of knee damage.

Barefoot running can be dangerous, especially to runners who do not adequately prepare or give their feet time to adapt to the new style. Many injuries are possible, such as injuries to the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia, or stress fractures in the metatarsal bones or lower leg. Barefoot runners who do not prepare their bodies could provide, "a stimulus plan for podiatrists, orthopedists, and physical therapists".{{cite news|last=Carey |first=Art |title=Well Being: Running barefoot has not-so-obvious hazards |url=http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/20100628_Well_Being__Running_barefoot_has_not-so-obvious_hazards.html |access-date=July 2, 2010|newspaper=The Philadelphia Inquirer|date=June 28, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100702011452/http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/20100628_Well_Being__Running_barefoot_has_not-so-obvious_hazards.html| archive-date= July 2, 2010 | url-status= live}}

The official position on barefoot running by the American Podiatric Medical Association states that there is not enough research on the immediate- and long-term benefits of the practice and that individuals should consult a podiatrist with a strong background in sports medicine to make an informed decision on all aspects of their running and training programs.{{cite web|title=APMA Position Statement on Barefoot Running|url=http://www.apma.org/Media/position.cfm?ItemNumber=995|publisher=American Podiatric Medical Association|access-date=November 4, 2010|archive-date=May 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130527135246/http://www.apma.org/Media/position.cfm?ItemNumber=995|url-status=live}}

One alternative to barefoot running is to wear thin-soled shoes with minimal padding, such as moccasins, plimsolls, or huaraches, which result in similar gait to going barefoot but protect the skin and keep dirt and water off.{{cite news|last=Hersher|first=Rebecca|title=Perfect Landing.|url=http://alumni.harvard.edu/stories/perfect-landing|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=Harvard University|date=January 27, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719210809/http://alumni.harvard.edu/stories/perfect-landing|archive-date=July 19, 2011|url-status=dead}} Some modern shoe manufacturers have recently designed footwear to maintain optimum flexibility while providing a minimum amount of protection. Such shoes include the shoes made by Vibram FiveFingers,{{cite news|title=Vibram FiveFingers Named A "Best Invention of 2007" by Time Magazine|url=http://www.trailspace.com/articles/2007/11/12/vibram-fivefingers-named-a-best-invention-of-2007-by-time-magazine.html|access-date=June 26, 2010|newspaper=trailspace.com|date=November 12, 2007|archive-date=May 13, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100513230848/http://www.trailspace.com/articles/2007/11/12/vibram-fivefingers-named-a-best-invention-of-2007-by-time-magazine.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Gauthier|first=Al|title=Review – Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek.|url=http://www.livingbarefoot.info/2010/05/review-vibram-fivefingers-kso-trek/|publisher=Living Barefoot|access-date=June 26, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100619133712/http://www.livingbarefoot.info/2010/05/review-vibram-fivefingers-kso-trek/|archive-date=June 19, 2010|url-status=dead}} Vivobarefoot,{{cite news|last=Woollard|first=Deirdre|title=EVO Shoes Offer A Close-To-The-Earth Experience|url=http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/13/evo-shoes-offer-a-close-to-the-earth-experience/|access-date=July 1, 2010|newspaper=Luxist|date=March 13, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100525125928/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/13/evo-shoes-offer-a-close-to-the-earth-experience/|archive-date=May 25, 2010|url-status=dead}} and Nike's Nike Free shoes.{{cite news|last=Cortese|first=Amy|title=Wiggling Their Toes at the Shoe Giants|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/30/business/30shoe.html|access-date=July 1, 2010|newspaper=The New York Times|date=August 29, 2009|archive-date=April 4, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110404080819/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/30/business/30shoe.html|url-status=live}} Sales of minimalist running shoes have grown into a {{USD|1.7|link=yes}} billion industry. Sales of Vibram FiveFingers alone grew from {{USD|450,000}} in 2006 to {{USD|50}} million in 2011.{{cite news|last=Mirshak|first=Meg|title=Minimalist-style shoes mimic running barefoot.|url=http://chronicle.augusta.com/life/2012-07-19/minimalist-style-shoes-mimic-running-barefoot|access-date=July 22, 2012|newspaper=Augusta Chronicle|date=July 19, 2012|archive-date=November 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104203824/http://chronicle.augusta.com/life/2012-07-19/minimalist-style-shoes-mimic-running-barefoot|url-status=live}}

File:DylanBarefoot2.jpg

{{main|Barefoot skiing}}

Barefoot skiing originated in Winter Haven, Florida, in 1947, when slalom skier A.G. Hancock tried to step off his ski.{{cite book|last=Oleksy|first=Walter G.|title=Barefoot Waterskiing|year=2000|publisher=Capstone Books |isbn=0-7368-0480-3|pages=[https://archive.org/details/barefootwaterski0000olek/page/13 13]–15|url=https://archive.org/details/barefootwaterski0000olek|url-access=registration}} The same year, in Cypress Gardens, Florida, competitive skier Richard Downing Pope, Jr., became well known in the sport of barefoot skiing.{{cite web|title=Richard Downing Pope, Jr.|url=http://www.waterskihalloffame.com/docs/Bios/Richard%20Pope%20Jr.htm|publisher=Water Ski Hall of Fame|access-date=June 27, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100619162517/http://waterskihalloffame.com/docs/Bios/Richard%20Pope%20Jr.htm| archive-date= June 19, 2010 | url-status= usurped}} The first barefoot skiing competition was held three years later, at the 1950 Cypress Gardens Dixie Championships.{{cite news|last=Poyet |first=Philippe |title=The History of Barefooting |url=http://barefoot.org/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=21 |access-date=June 27, 2010 |newspaper=American Barefoot Waterski Club |date=May 13, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101027201933/http://barefoot.org/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=21 |archive-date=October 27, 2010 }} In 1978, skiers from ten nations competed in the first World Barefoot Championships in Canberra, Australia. The same year, the American Barefoot Club (ABC) was formed, which governs competitive barefoot skiing events in the United States.

Early skateboarders rode barefoot, preferring foot-to-board contact and emulating surfing moves.{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NxembYuScL8C |title=The Skateboard: The Good, the Rad, and the Gnarly: An Illustrated History |first=Ben |last=Marcus |year=2011 |publisher=MVP Books |access-date=November 27, 2015 |isbn=978-0760338056 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103122047/https://books.google.com/books?id=NxembYuScL8C |url-status=live }}[https://books.google.com/books?id=vWWWfp_22DQC&dq=skateboarder+gary+swanson&pg=PA33 Skateboarding, Space and the City: Architecture and the Body] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422123128/https://books.google.com/books?id=vWWWfp_22DQC&dq=skateboarder+gary+swanson&pg=PA33 |date=April 22, 2023 }} By Iain Borden. Goggle Books.{{cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/answerisnever00jock |url-access=registration |page=[https://archive.org/details/answerisnever00jock/page/21 21] |title=The Answer is Never: A Skateboarder's History of the World |publisher=Grove Press |first=Jocko |last=Weyland |access-date=November 27, 2015|isbn=978-0802139450 |year=2002 }} The plastic penny board is intended to be ridden barefoot, and Penny Skateboards have promoted the riding of the board barefoot by selling T-shirts and stickers.{{cite web |url=http://www.pennyskateboards.com/eu/bare-foot-is-back.html |title=penny stickers |website=Pennyskateboards.com |access-date=November 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726165721/http://www.pennyskateboards.com/eu/bare-foot-is-back.html |archive-date=July 26, 2015 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.pennyskateboards.com/eu/penny-bare-foot-shirt.html|title=Blue Bare Foot Shirt|website=pennyskateboards.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150613213305/http://www.pennyskateboards.com/eu/penny-bare-foot-shirt.html|archive-date=June 13, 2015|url-status=dead|access-date=August 23, 2017}} They have also posted social media posts encouraging barefoot riding, {{cite web|url=https://instagram.com/p/3QaR_EmTx6/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/3QaR_EmTx6 |archive-date=December 26, 2021 |url-access=registration|title=Instagram |publisher=Instagram |access-date=November 27, 2015}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=https://instagram.com/p/vkaJL8mTy5/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/instagram/pennyskateboards/856924809619651769 |archive-date=December 23, 2021 |url-access=subscription|title=Instagram |publisher=Instagram |access-date=November 27, 2015}}{{cbignore}} particularly in summer.{{cite web|url=https://instagram.com/p/yY3qS1mTwX/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/instagram/pennyskateboards/907720123917876247 |archive-date=December 23, 2021 |url-access=subscription|title=Instagram |publisher=Instagram |access-date=November 27, 2015}}{{cbignore}} The Hamboard, a surfboard style board, is also intended to be ridden barefoot.

Barefoot skateboarding has been witnessing a revival in recent times.{{cite web |url=http://blahfilmproject.tumblr.com/ |title=BLAHskateboards: filmproject |website=Blahfilmproject.tumblr.com |access-date=November 27, 2015 |archive-date=April 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130423072518/http://blahfilmproject.tumblr.com/ |url-status=live }} Many modern skateboarders skate barefoot, especially in summer and in warmer countries like Australia, South Africa, and parts of South America.

It is typically mandatory to compete barefoot in combat sports which allow kicking such as mixed martial arts. In contrast, competitors usually wear shoes in boxing and other disciplines where kicking or similar offensive use of the legs and feet are not permitted.

Until the 1980s, a significant minority of placekickers in American football competed barefoot, although a "barefoot" kicker always wore a shoe on his non-kicking foot. Some kickers believed they could get a better "feel" for the ball and thus have greater control over the ball's trajectory. Another theory was that shoes and socks absorbed kinetic energy, and kicking barefoot would create more torque.{{cite news |last1=Klosterman |first1=Chuck |title=A Brilliant Idea! (for now). |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=klosterman/061016#:~:text=Tony%20Franklin%20of%20the%20Eagles,cleats%20back%20on%20for%20kickoffs. |access-date=June 14, 2022 |publisher=ESPN |archive-date=June 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614133426/https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=klosterman/061016#:~:text=Tony%20Franklin%20of%20the%20Eagles,cleats%20back%20on%20for%20kickoffs. |url-status=live }} A major drawback was the increased risk of injuring the kicking foot (a toe injury in particular had the potential to be season-ending) although the adoption of the "soccer-style" kicking motion starting in the late 1960s (in addition to being proven a much more accurate kicking method) reduced the risk of toe injuries compared to kicking the ball toe-first.

Barefoot kicking decisively fell out of favor during the 1990s as new materials and technology in cleat design enabled shoe manufacturers to develop kicking footwear specifically for American football, based on successful designs of soccer cleats. One design was described as a cross between a soccer cleat and a ballet shoe.{{cite news |last1=Spieth |first1=Boredom |title=Flesh to Leather: Why There Are No More Barefoot Kickers In The NFL. |url=https://www.theversed.com/71465/no-barefoot-kickers-nfl/#.XuTDnfGc2p |access-date=June 14, 2022 |publisher=The Versed |date=September 18, 2017 |archive-date=May 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528103221/https://www.theversed.com/71465/no-barefoot-kickers-nfl/#.XuTDnfGc2p |url-status=live }}

One of the more well known barefoot kickers was Tony Franklin, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Miami Dolphins between 1979 and 1988. He remains the all time scoring leader for barefoot kickers with 872 points.{{cite news |last1=Paris |first1=Matthew |title=What Happened to "The Barefoot Kicker"? |url=https://www.thesportscol.com/2020/05/what-happened-to-the-barefoot-kicker/ |access-date=June 14, 2022 |publisher=The Sports Column |date=May 28, 2020 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408193929/https://www.thesportscol.com/2020/05/what-happened-to-the-barefoot-kicker/ |url-status=live }} The last full-time barefoot kicker in the NFL was Rich Karlis of the Denver Broncos, who played until the 1990 NFL season.{{cite news |last1=Orsuto |first1=Arielle |title=Former barefoot Broncos kicker kickstarts next career phase with woodworking business. |url=https://www.9news.com/article/sports/former-broncos-kicker-rich-karlis-new-woodworking-project/73-fdcea67f-a24a-4add-aab2-3a2b1bd34353 |access-date=June 14, 2022 |publisher=9News |date=January 2, 2022}} The last barefoot field goal was a kick by Jeff Wilkins on October 20, 2002. Wilkins, who only kicked barefoot for the first seven games of the 2002 season, retired after the 2007 season.{{cn|date=August 2024}}

{{Div col}}

• List of barefooters
• Sole (foot)
• Ötzi
• Barefoot doctor
• Barefoot in the Park (film)
• Colton Harris-Moore (also known as the "Barefoot Bandit")

{{Div col end}}

{{clear}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{cite book |first=Rochelle G. |last=Saidel |year=2006 |publisher=Terrace Books |title=The Jewish Women of Ravensbrück Concentration Camp| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zglu2RvoLmgC&pg=PA17 |access-date=March 26, 2013 |isbn=978-0299198640 }}

{{Sister project links|barefoot}}

{{nudity}}

Category:Foot

Category:Human appearance