This page lists the “What’s New In Barefooting” articles and links we featured in 2023 (shown in ascending order by date).
Seeing the world: Canton cyclist completes barefoot trip through Central America – Charita Goshay, in Canton Repository (December 6, 2023)
The story of world traveler Daniel James who chose to ride barefoot through thirteen countries in Central America. As he explains, “When I was living and working in Australia, a lot of people go barefoot there, too. It’s just part of the culture, I guess. …After I lived there a year, it just kind of stuck, and then I was like, ‘I can do this trip barefoot.’”
Another article about Daniel James (Nov. 15, 2023).
Tricks and Tips for Getting Comfortable Dancing Barefoot – by Sophie Bress, in Dance Magazine (December 6, 2023)
While dancing barefoot may present unexpected challenges for dancers accustomed to footwear, it can also inspire new ways of approaching movement.
What It’s Like to Stay at Gili Lankanfushi, the Maldives Resort With Service So Superb It’s Invisible – by Tom Weijand, in Robb Report (November 9, 2023)
Want a luxury destination with an ethos of “No news, no shoes”? This article suggests Gili Lankanfushi, where luxury’s zenith includes going barefoot. As you settle into your boat ride from the Malé airport dock, you’re handed a drink and canvas bag. The bag is for your shoes; you won’t need them again until you leave.
His Bare Feet Bolster Bike Rides across Several Continents – by April McClellan-Copeland, in Kent State Today/Kent State Univ., Ohio (November 15, 2023)
Kent State graduate Daniel James wants to bike across all seven continents. He’s crossed three continents so far (N. America, S. America and Australia), all while barefoot. He biked, hiked and played sports sans shoes as a child and reinforced the habit in adulthood.
Another article about Daniel James (December 6, 2023)
Ryan Nitz: The ‘Barefoot Bandit’ of the Everglades – by Ryan Lockwood, in Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (November 8, 2023)
Story about Everglades hunter Ryan Nitz, who prefer to hunt barefoot for the advantages it provides.
Maya battle cry: barefoot softball players swing at Yucatán’s macho taboos – words by Mark Viales, in The Guardian (October 30, 2023)
A second photo article (see October 11 entry, below) about the all-female indigenous softball team with the message that women are as capable of competitive sports as men, and show their strength by playing without shoes.
‘I don’t own any shoes – walking barefoot on glass doesn’t bother me’ – by Holly Patrick, in The Independent/UK (October 26, 2023)
Article and video about Robin Greenfield, a man who doesn’t own any shoes, shares how going barefoot 24/7 doesn’t bother him but rather offers many benefits.
Being barefoot feels good, and has many health benefits – by Kriss Sands, Blog: Born To Live Barefoot (October 12, 2023)
A blog entry that seeks to answer the questions, “Why does going barefoot make us feel good?” and “What health benefits do we gain from going barefoot?” The article includes quotes from actual barefooters in answer to those questions.
Women Maya softballers brush off machismo insults to become Mexican superstars – by Mark Viales, NPR / Goats and Soda (
Playing barefoot and wearing traditional Mayan garb, the Las Amazonas de Yaxunah all-female indigenous softball team, famous throughout Mexico, pays homage to their Maya culture and to demonstrate that women can be both feminine and strong.
I love walking barefoot so much. It means I can’t ever live in a city again – essay by Sari Caine, in Insider (October 8, 2023)
Essay by the author who finds walking barefoot in the grass comforting and connecting. She got married barefoot and continues the practice daily.
Flashback: Julia Roberts’ barefoot red carpet strut challenged Cannes’ double standards – by the Desimartini Editorial Team, in Desimartini (October 4, 2023)
A review of the day in 2016 when Julia Roberts daringly walked the Cannes red carpet barefoot, challenging the festival’s controversial heels-only rule for women.
Walk barefoot, live grounded: a connection to nature and self – by Julia Skaggs , in TSLNews [Calif Claremont Colleges paper] (October 3, 2023)
As the author notes, we can easily become disconnected from our natural human needs in our modern technologically interconnected world. Some students at the Claremont Colleges in southern California have found a solution: barefoot living.
Team Lab Planets Museum, Tokyo – Museum website which describes a unique exhibit that began in 2018 and runs through 2027 (entered here September 21, 2023).
This museum invites visitors to enter barefoot–to fully immerse themselves in the experience! As their website explains: “…With Others, Immerse your Entire Body, Perceive with your Body, and Become One with the World.” That’s our kind of museum!
Bucs’ barefoot bunch: Why 3 Tampa Bay players take the field without shoes before games – by Greg Auman, in Fox Sports (September 15, 2023)
Three Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL football players make a regular pre-game practice of venturing across the field barefoot. “It’s just something to center us before the game,” explains one of the players. “You walk around, take in the stadium… I feel like a little kid again….” We get it.
Co Down woman to walk Mournes Wall barefoot in aid of rescue charity – by James Martin McCarthy, in BelfastLive/UK (September 14, 2023)
The story of Cathy Reavy who’s barefooting journey began during lockdown. Her walking trainer inspired her to start barefooting. After not wearing shoes for about three months Reavy discovered great mental and physical benefits.
Mirihi Island Resort: Barefoot luxury in the Maldives – in Signature Luxury Travel & Style/AU (September 4, 2023)
Why this entry? We liked their definition of “barefoot luxury”: the idea that we can find “luxury” in small details, the warmth of others, and unspoiled natural surroundings. That nicely describes the barefoot outlook and spirit.
Grounding aka Earthing is Based on Bad Science – by Susan Brinkmann, in Women of Grace (August 22, 2023)
An excellent article scientifically evaluating and debunking claims surrounding “Earthing,” also known as “Grounding.”
“What’s this One Called Again?” Let Pedro Barros Blow Your Mind With this Unique Combo (Video) – by Brian Blakely, in Skateboarding.com (August 16, 2023)
‘Barefoot Ben’ explains why he hasn’t worn shoes for eight years – by Brooke Davies, in Metro/UK (August 13, 2023)
Stories of SBL member Ben Donnelly and also Fionna Thornton, who have both chosen to forgo footwear. As Ben notes, “Life is too short to be wearing shoes.” We understand!
CHP Sets the Record Straight on Driving Barefoot – by Ashley (August 11, 2023)
This article again confirms the legality of driving barefoot in all 50 U.S. states. Yes, it’s perfectly legal and, as the article correctly notes, often safer.
VIDEO: Athlete climbs Table Mountain barefoot – Article and Youtube video by Jacaranda FM (August 1, 2023)
Athlete and fitness influencer Adam Radcliff and a climbing partner tackle Table Mountain in Cape Town South Africa, hiking the trail barefoot.
Experience: I’ve walked around London barefoot for a year – by Chiara Wilkinson, in The Guardian (July 28, 2023)
The story of Michael Peacock, a self described non-conformist, who chose to go barefoot for a year and now would not go back to wearing shoes, due to its benefits.
I walk around everywhere barefoot to be closer to nature… by Elizabeth Haigh, in Daily Mail/UK (July 23, 2023)
The story of Catrina Shenston who has walked everywhere barefoot for seven years. A trip to India inspired her to ditch shoes for good. Now she is determined to never wear them again. Her decision has revolutionized her health (for the better!).
We tried to hike the Welsh 3000s barefoot – Youtube video by El Ventures (July 21, 2023)
As El introduces her video, “
Should You Deadlift Barefoot? Here’s What the Experts Say – by Ian Douglass, in BarBend (July 19, 2023)
Read the advice of two fitness experts whose very livelihoods depend on their ability to teach athletes to deadlift effectively.
Short answer: Deadlifting barefoot offers significant advantages, assuming certain precautions.
Verify: Yes, if your child is barefoot outside it will strengthen their immune system – Jeremy Baker, KENS5 News (San Antonio, TX) investigative report (July 14, 2023)
The lead in states, “Shoes may not always be a child’s best friend.” Thus, in response to the question: “Is it true that if kids are barefoot outside that it strengthens their immune system?” the report consults a medical expert and medical study and concludes: “True!”
How To Nurture Your Child’s Connection To The Earth With Barefoot Living – by Ruth Williams, in Art of Healthy Living (July 6, 2023)
The author outlines the various health benefits of barefoot living that aid the physical development of young toddlers, and lists various enjoyable barefoot activities that both parent and child can do together.
Barefoot in Vermont — Or Not – by Nara Petrovic, in Nara’s Substack (July 3, 2023)
Writer and barefoot world traveler, Nara Petrovic describes visiting the U.S. and hiking in the state of Vermont. Narrating his conversation with a fellow forest trail hiker, he relates the joys and benefits of barefooting as well as the unique ups and downs of trying to do so in the U.S.
What Happens to Your Body if You Don’t Wear Shoes for 30 Days? – by Robert Born, in BoxRox, Competitive Fitness Magazine (June 24, 2023)
Noting that going barefoot has gained popularity due to its potential benefits for foot health and overall well-being, the author responds to the title question by concluding, “You should definitely consider going barefoot.”
Wanted: Brave Soles and Creative Souls – by Connie Kuntz, personal Blog (June 16, 2023)
Connie Kuntz, producer for the Rockford Fringe, writes about the joys of barefoot hiking while describing her summer, 2023 program, which includes a barefoot hiking series culminating with a fringe festival in August. Her website provides details about their outdoor adventures with a twist of art.
Woman reveals she stopped wearing shoes for a YEAR and even climbed Snowdon Barefoot! – by Gwyneth Rees, in Daily Mail,
The story of El Robertson, who decided to take up a barefoot lifestyle after wading through a stream on a hike. She says her feet have never been in better condition.
What Can Being Barefoot Do for You? – By Diana Zotos Florio, in Yoga U online (June 9, 2023)
Noting that, “Being barefoot can strengthen and mobilize your feet and promote proprioception,” the article outlines how to reconnect with out feet and enjoy the many health benefits of going barefoot.
Should I do Squats without Shoes? – by Chloe Alexander, in House Of Peach (June 7, 2023)
Based on the long list of significant benefits identified, the answer seems a resounding “yes.” The short list for “no” comes down to possible injuries or the gym does not allow bare feet (not very compelling or rational reasons for a seasoned barefooter).
7 tips and trivia to encourage you to go barefoot this summer – by Hillary Hutchinson, in Transitioning For Life (June 6, 2023)
In reflecting on how people need time to slow down and enjoy renewing opportunities in the summer, this career coach lifts up the liberating act of simply going barefoot to benefit mind and body. We agree–though we wouldn’t limit the benefits to just summer!
Look: Rad Old Dudes Rip Barefoot Snowskate Run – by Mark Clavin, in Snowboarder (June 1, 2023)
Barefoot snowboarding! Enough said. Three dudes in their 50’s having fun, doing it right.
Without shoes, with a purpose: a walk with ‘The Barefoot Guy’ – By Katy Shero, in NBC26/NorthEast Wisc (June 1, 2023)
On June 1, “National Barefoot Day,” reporter Katy Shero interviews a Wisconsin barefooter, Luke Titus, also known locally as “The Barefoot Guy.” As Titus puts it, its “just natural.” We agree.
Look of the Week: Cate Blanchett certifies it’s a barefoot summer – by , in CNN (May 26, 2023)
Covering the fashion statement of the week, CNN reports that Blanchett’s bare feet were the ultimate style statement. At a Cannes Film Festival event, the Oscar-nominated actor removed her shoes “in honor of the women of Iran.”
I Ditched Shoes for a Year – Here’s Why – by Eva zu Beck, YouTube Video / Eva’s Unplugged channel (May 24, 2023)
Eva explains her reasons for choosing to “ditch” her shoes. In this video she also interviews other prominent barefooters who explain their reasons. Eva describes the problems caused by many footwear options as well as the benefits that going barefoot provides.
Should We Be Raising Kids Barefoot? – video by SciShow (May 22, 2023)
Noting that shoes can change how feet grow and develop, the video summarizes research on differences in foot health between those who live barefoot and those who wear shoes.
Some CSU Channel Islands grads go barefoot– by Tracy Lehr, in KEYT News channel/California (May 22, 2023)
Environmental Science & Resource Management students at Cal State University in Channel Islands in Camarillo, CA followed a tradition of graduating in robes and bare feet–to show solidarity with the world’s poor and to be directly connected to earth.
It’s going to Be A Barefoot-Boy Summer – by Max Berlinger, in The Cut (May 18, 2023)
Noting an apparent rise in men going barefoot, as demonstated by celebrities such as Jacob Elordi, as well as characters on TV and models on fashion runways, the author predicts 2023 will be the “Barefoot-Boy summer.” If correct, we welcome and celebrate that!
Why Going Barefoot Is Great – by Chris Hansen, in The Quake102.1 (May 11, 2023)
The author relates his enthusiasm for going barefoot and reconnecting with the earth after embracing the practice for a few months while living near the beach along the Gulf Coast. We understand, and agree it’s great!
Take Off Your Shoes: 5 Floors to Experience Barefoot – by Camilla Ghisleni, in Arch Daily (May 5, 2023)
As the title suggests, the article discusses the best types of flooring to enjoy the tactile sensations underfoot.
5 Benefits Of Running On The Beach PLUS Learn How To Run On Sand Properly – by Helen, in Trail & Kale (April 17, 2023)
Running on beach sand offers unique benefits. This article provides helpful tips and answers to barefoot beach-running questions. The author also discusses “barefoot shoes” but in the context of when a new-to-barefooting runner might want to use them due to rough terrain.
‘Barefoot Autism Challenge’ raising awareness at NYC’s Guggenheim Museum – by Linda Schmidt, Fox5NewYork (April 7, 2023)
Article and TV news feature about Barefoot Autism Challenge participants welcomed by The Guggenheim Museum in New York City–as part of the museum’s commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, support for autism awareness–and of course, “fun!”
Is Driving Barefoot Illegal In Your State? – by Susan Meyer, in The Zebra(April 5, 2023)
Short answer: No! Of course not. The article cites the facts based on research. It also discusses the origins of the myth and situations in which driving barefoot is actually safer. (Note: unfortunately, the article concludes by giving credence to a few largely incorrect assumed dangers related to driving barefoot.)
Barefoot School with Robin Greenfield – by Robin Greenfield, in own website (April 3, 2023)
Greenfield, a ten year full-time barefooter, will host a multi-day “Barefoot School” this summer in his current home base of Asheville, North Carolina. He also plans to take the Barefoot School on the road to a handful of cities. Format will include either a one-day class or two-day immersion. Check his link, above, for more information.
Barefoot Living – Article by Niklas Manz, in Wave Lab/The College of Wooster (April 3[?], 2023)
The author, an SBL member, begins, “After several decades following social pressure, I can finally be who I am: feeling the ground – no shoes!” The article goes on to provide a wealth of information about the benefits of barefooting.
Barefoot Running: Strengthening Your Feet or Increasing Your Risk of Injury? – by Raha Jamal, in Sportskeeda (April 3, 2023)
A brief review of the benefits and possible risks (mainly to those with pre-existing foot conditions) of barefoot running.
The article includes a video on barefoot running techniques, explaining how footwear alters running mechanics for the worse, while running barefoot can regain lost efficiency.
Barefoot Autism Challenge– WHO13 NBC News/Des Moines video (March 27, 2023)
A local TV news station interview with Tyler Leech, founder of the Barefoot Autism Challenge, in recognition of April as Autism Acceptance month.
_________________________
Barefoot Experience at the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) – Information provided by the DMA about a museum event on Saturday, April 22, recognizing the Barefoot Autism Challenge.
The DMA website explains: “Here’s your chance to visit the Museum barefoot—no shoes required! We’re offering this special sensory experience to show support for the neurodiverse community as part of the Barefoot Autism Challenge, which runs concurrent with Autism Acceptance month in April each year.”
Feet for a king: Westminster Abbey to offer barefoot tours – By Sylvia Hui (AP), in ABCNews (March 23, 2023)
London’s Westminster Abbey will, for the first time, allow visitors to stand on the exact spot where King Charles III will be crowned. The Abby will open the area to small guided “barefoot tours” after the crowning ceremony–and also ask visitors to remove their shoes to avoid wear and tear to the floor.
‘She isn’t preparing food with her feet’: People defend barefoot Wendy’s worker after she gets called out by customer – by Sarah Kester, in Daily Dot (March 16, 2023)
After a Tik-toker criticized a barefoot employee in a fast food restaurant, the article delves deeper to bring balance to the story, including setting straight Health Dept. myths about bare feet.
Interestingly (as the title indicates), most of the Tik-tok “Comments” section support the pregnant, barefoot employee. Encouraging!
Visiting five Brighton fast food restaurants with no footwear – by Zac Sherratt, in The Argus/KU (March 10, 2023)
Following on an earlier British article (immediately below) about a fast-food restaurant in Bexhill that prohibited a man from entering barefoot, The Argus decided to investigate whether Brighton’s eateries are more foot friendly than their easterly cousins. (Answer: Fortunately, yes!)
Man with ‘barefoot lifestyle’ says he was told to leave Bexhill McDonald’s because he had no shoes – by Richard Gladstone, in Sussex World/UK (March 6, 2023) – A Bexhill man said he was asked to leave a restaurant because he was barefoot.
Weather is snow problem! Meet Israel’s barefoot running sensation – By Natalie Libona, in The JC [Jewish Chronicle] (March 09, 2023)
TikTok celebrity athlete Barefoot Rom promotes a positive body image to young people around the world — and does it all barefoot, be it snow, rocks or hot sand. As Rom observes, “We do not need shoes, it’s a gimmick. I have run so much now my soles are hardened and I do not feel a thing, not even glass.”
Related article: This (half) marathon runner will jog Jerusalem barefoot, by Jessica Steinberg, in Times of Israel (March 16, 2023)
The Beginner’s Guide to Barefoot Cycling – by Sam Whalley, in Cycling Europe (March 2, 2023)
Helpful article on how cycling barefoot can improve cycling ability, including tips if you want to try it.
He Took His Shoes Off 20 Years Ago. He Hasn’t Put Them Back On – by Katherine Rosman, in DNYUZ ** (March 1, 2023)
The story of Joseph DeRuvo Jr., who has lived a mostly barefooted life for nearly two decades–due to its numerous benefits. The article also focuses on the largely needless social pressures he has faced as a result. But DeRuvo considers his lifestyle a gift. We concur.
** This article first appeared in The New York Times
Barefoot 365 Days a Year, Outcast by Family and Society is a lie? – TBP #13 – interview by The Blue Podcast, Youtube video (February 21, 2023)
Interview with George, the ‘Barefoot Guy,’ from Cambridge, UK, who has gone entirely barefoot for one year.
Going Barefoot Changed My Life – by Martin Perkins, Youtube video (February, 2023)
Sports scientist Martin Perkins discusses foot health and well being and the role going barefoot plays in that, especially in our modern physical environment.
These benefits of letting your toddler walk barefoot will surprise you! – (Author unnamed) Times of India (February 15, 2023)
Article highlights the importance and benefits of allowing infants and young children to go barefoot, based on expert testimony. We’re not surprised.
Eagles’ Jordan Mailata may change ‘barefoot routine’ for Super Bowl: ‘Superstitious’ – By Mark Cannizzaro, in New York Post (February 11, 2023)
Philadelphia Eagles player Jordan Mailata, a converted rugby player from Australia, revealed he has a barefoot routine before every game (including the Superbowl). He explains he does it “to kind of ground me.”
Meet TikTok’s ‘barefoot influencers’ who are accused of being gross and unsafe, but say it’s worth it to encourage viewers to connect with nature – by Charissa Cheong, in Insider (February 11, 2023)
Barefooting has apparently become a popular topic on TikTok. Here, two barefooting influencers share their love of the lifestyle.
The article apparently felt obligated to note certain risks identified by “health experts.” But these seemed based more on biases than facts or experience. As the influencers noted, for them the benefits outweigh potential risks.
She squatted Barefoot for the First Time – by SquatUniversity, Youtube Video (February 10, 2023)
This short video explains the benefits of lifting weights barefoot. It essentially has to do with offering better stability.
Come Rain Or Shine: Kashmir Girls Practice Martial Arts In Snow – Ritika Joshi, in Shethepeople (February 4, 2023)
Snow? Cold? No indoor training facilities? No problem! And who needs shoes? The girls said they didn’t want to lag behind as they aimed to compete at international platforms and the Olympics.
Why Matt Riddle Wrestles Barefoot In WWE, Explained – by Andrew Kelly, in The Sportster (February 2, 2023)
Matt Riddle, a WWE wrestler, competes without footwear–for two reasons. With his martial arts background it gives his an advantage, and footwear hurts his feet due to the effects of frostbite he suffered years earlier.
Is Walking Barefoot Dangerous? – by LoserAna, Youtube video (January 31, 2023)
In this vlog, Ana does a Google search on the question “Is walking barefoot dangerous” and offers spot on commentary regarding the opinions of “health experts” found among the top listed website links.
Ana’s full list of barefooting Vlogs here
Bermuda is 100th Country for Barefoot Runner – by Stephen Wright, in Bernews (January 10, 2023)
Dr Diallo, 67, a French diplomat and author of Running Barefoot for Human Survival uses the name Dr Barefoot on Facebook and has raced barefoot in six continents, 56 countries and 123 marathons. As Dr. Diallo states, “I started reading more literature and found out, ‘Wow, the human body is meant for barefoot running’.”
Barefoot Strength Training — Can Lifting Without Shoes Help You Make More Gains?– by Eric Bugera, in BarBend (January 6, 2023)
Asking, “should you free your feet in the gym?” the article addresses benefits, drawbacks and how to start lifting weights barefoot.
Ski Tournament: Barefoot On The Lake – by “Newsroom” in Cornelius today (January 3, 2023)
Sunny skies and calm waters brought out plenty of spectators to the 45th annual New Year’s Day Barefoot Skiing Tourney at Lake Norman Marina in North Carolina. A great excuse to go barefoot in winter. But, hey, for some it’s not limited to just New Year’s Day!