The Barefoot FAQ

Q5: Isn't it gross with all the dirt?

It depends on your point of view. Personally, I don't think so. Walking barefoot is natural and dirty soles are the natural result. It is to be expected. Your body sweats and your hair becomes oily. So your soles get dirty...so what? Ever play sports or engage in any other prolonged physical activity? You still do it even though you will get dirty and sweaty. A shower later and you're clean. Walking barefoot is the same thing.

Personally, I can't stand sweaty, smelly feet which is what you get if you wear shoes: to me, that's gross. There is also a greater dislike for dirt you can see versus dirt you can't. People touch many dirty, germ-laden things with their hands all day such as doorknobs, handrails, etc., that many other people have touched after doing who-knows-what with their hands and fingers. Nobody gives that a second thought, however, because you can't see that dirt.

But other barefooters I know and I myself actually think it's fun and cool to get dirty feet, as black as you can possibly get them.

What about hot surfaces
such as asphalt? 		Don't you have to stare at
the ground all the time?
Last updated: November 30, 1997
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