How would you describe a barefooter?

Someone who lives without shoes as much as possible

How long have you been barefoot?

30+ years

Why did you decide to be barefoot?

I enjoy the feeling of freedom and textures

On a scale of 1 to 10, how “extreme” are you?

6

What is your opinion on shoes and socks?

They have their place and time

Do you think being barefoot is socially acceptable? Why or why not?

It depends on the locale and context. I wish it were more widespread and acceptable.

Have you ever not been able to go in somewhere/refused service because you didn’t have shoes on?

Only a couple of times in all these years

What are the best and worst reactions you have gotten? How do you deal with bad reactions and unsolicited opinions?

Best reactions: people getting excited as seeing someone “brave” enough to barefoot in public, and wishes that they had the courage to do the same. Worst reaction was going in to pay for gas, the clerk was viciously apoplectic and refused to take my money unless I went to my car and put some shoes on and returned.

How do you go about feet care?

I try to get regular pedicures, which I love. In between, I file my nails down, use a pumice stone and scrub with a brush, especially cuticles.

Do you wear foot jewelry?

Not yet

Have you dealt with fetishers?

No

Do you walk on everything or are there surfaces you don’t walk on?

Everything is fine, but areas where there may be animal waste are a little sketchy

What is your favorite surface to walk barefoot on and why?

Cold tile in the supermarket, the briskness and smooth surface is delicious.

What are the worst things you’ve stepped on?

A snail

Have you had any mishaps?

Not really, the occasional splinter

How do you handle cold temperatures?

dress warmly and keep moving.

In your experience, what season is best to be barefoot?

Fall, still warm generally

How does being barefoot affect aspects of your life (love, career e.t.c)?

No real effect

What challenges do you run into (physically, socially e.t.c)?

Sometimes I get apprehensive about going into a public place or business, but feel better after there were no reactions from anyone.

What are misconceptions about being barefoot?

That feet by themselves are dirty and smelly by default. They are no more dirty than hands. Habitually bare feet have no smell at all.

What are your fears that stem from being barefoot?

Puncture wounds and being accosted by an unbalanced person who takes umbrage at my feet.

What advantages of being barefoot have you experienced?

Better mood, better foot health and flexibility. I love the fact my toes have spread, and my feet are tanned. I also love the tough but soft soles that being barefoot can create.

What disadvantages of being barefoot have you experienced?

Ultra cold weather can be harmful if you are not prepared for it. And the social stigma attached to being barefoot in some areas and with some neurotic people.

What are things to NOT say or do to barefoot people?

Yell “put some shoes on!”

What would you like to say to barefooters?

I’m glad to see you enjoying yourself just like me.

Give tips to new barefooters and people looking to go barefoot.

If you want to do it, just do it. Ease into it though if you’re not used to it.

How do you wish our society would perceive and treat barefoot people?

No different than anyone else.

What would you like people to know about being barefoot?

It’s awesome and healthy.