How would you describe a barefooter?
Someone who wishes to live life in harmony with nature while still living in society legally. The SFBL (Society for Barefoot Living) says that it is legal to go barefoot in all 50 states)
How long have you been barefoot?
For at least three years, on and off to my knowledge. Since I’m living with my family, who chooses what I do and don’t wear, I can only go barefoot on days thry aren’t home and I have to rely on not getting caught otherwise
Why did you decide to be barefoot?
As I said in a previous response, I have low sensory preferences. I don’t like the feeling of shoes, or, for that matter, clothes, but, I can do with just no shoes.
On a scale of 1 to 10, how “extreme” are you?
7
What is your opinion on shoes and socks?
They’re uncomfortable
Do you think being barefoot is socially acceptable? Why or why not?
Yes. I think it is acceptable because it’s how the first humans lived.
Have you ever not been able to go in somewhere/refused service because you didn’t have shoes on?
No
What are the best and worst reactions you have gotten? How do you deal with bad reactions and unsolicited opinions?
My worst reaction was being told to put on my shoes by a faculty member. I was with my college professor at the time, where I had advocated for freedom of what we can wear, who said I was correct. This was my best reaction.
How do you go about feet care?
I take showers every day and I wash my feet. I also trim my nails.
Have you dealt with fetishers?
No
Do you walk on everything or are there surfaces you don’t walk on?
I walk in everything. As a matter of fact, I am less hesitant to walk on a mud patch a block down from my house when I am barefoot.
What is your favorite surface to walk barefoot on and why?
The sidewalk. I like the burning sensation beneath my feet.
In your experience, what season is best to be barefoot?
Spring/sumner
How does being barefoot affect aspects of your life (love, career e.t.c)?
I feel more focused.
What challenges do you run into (physically, socially e.t.c)?
People discourage it.
What are misconceptions about being barefoot?
People think it’s illegal but it isn’t.
What advantages of being barefoot have you experienced?
It’s quicker to do things.
What are things to NOT say or do to barefoot people?
Step on their feet, or comment about their feet.
How do you feel about how barefoot is portrayed in media? What are some of your favorite pieces of media with authentic representation?
It is often very sexualized. I think the best way to find barefoot representation is from SFBL or in nature magazines, if they are showing barefoot people.
Give tips to new barefooters and people looking to go barefoot.
Don’t be afraid to try.