How would you describe a barefooter?
Someone who chooses not to wear shoes as a mandatory part of daily life
How long have you been barefoot?
5 months
Why did you decide to be barefoot?
To connect with the earth, grounding, and confidence
On a scale of 1 to 10, how “extreme” are you?
10
What is your opinion on shoes and socks?
Not a fan, but has a time and place
Do you think being barefoot is socially acceptable? Why or why not?
From my experiences not exactly, but I’m not sure why. I don’t think bare feet are provocative or unprofessional, yet society has told us these things are true. As soon as you start asking why there isn’t anything to hold the argument up.
Have you ever not been able to go in somewhere/refused service because you didn’t have shoes on?
Yes. Mostly places with actual shoe policies, and once or twice from “Karen” employees
What are the best and worst reactions you have gotten? How do you deal with bad reactions and unsolicited opinions?
Best reactions have been from people who are genuinely curious and want to find out more. Worst reactions are from bigoted employees who want an ounce of power. I haven’t gotten any bad reaction or unsolicited opinions from people just out in the wild
How do you go about feet care?
Nothing has changed. I wash em in the shower.
Do you wear foot jewelry?
Sometimes
Have you dealt with fetishers?
Haven’t experienced this
Do you walk on everything or are there surfaces you don’t walk on?
I’ll walk on anything that won’t obviously cut my feet i.e. broken glass
What is your favorite surface to walk barefoot on and why?
I actually really enjoy warm smooth pavement
What are the worst things you’ve stepped on?
Medium sized rocks, spiky balls that fall off trees
Have you had any mishaps?
Trying a 6 mile barefoot hike two weeks into barefooting
How do you handle cold temperatures?
This hasn’t been an issue yet since I started in the spring. We’ll have to see
In your experience, what season is best to be barefoot?
Spring
How does being barefoot affect aspects of your life (love, career e.t.c)?
I think it helps in most aspects because of how much confidence I’ve gained and the ability to just be myself
What challenges do you run into (physically, socially e.t.c)?
Can’t always keep up walking with others if it’s a challenging surface
What are misconceptions about being barefoot?
That it’s dirtier than wearing shoes, that it can’t be done
What are your fears that stem from being barefoot?
Being discriminated against
What advantages of being barefoot have you experienced?
Comfort, no time spent having to tie shoe laces
What disadvantages of being barefoot have you experienced?
Dealing with bigoted employees mostly
What are things to NOT say or do to barefoot people?
Nothing sexual. Honestly just leave people alone unless you’re curious or just want to compliment
How do you feel about how barefoot is portrayed in media? What are some of your favorite pieces of media with authentic representation?
I haven’t seen any
What would you like to say to barefooters?
Keep doing you!
Give tips to new barefooters and people looking to go barefoot.
You’re going to have to push past a lot of discomfort. Don’t give up!
How do you wish our society would perceive and treat barefoot people?
Like normal people!
What would you like people to know about being barefoot?
That it has so many benefits, don’t knock it til you try it