This page lists the “What’s New In Barefooting” articles and links we featured in 2024 (shown in ascending order by date).
Tar Heel Traveler: Barefoot man – News video by “The Tar Heel Traveler” on WRAL/North Carolina TV News (December 30, 2024)
Meet Axel Pons, Former Racing Star Who Has Been Walking Barefoot For Six Years – by Satyaki Baidya, in News18.com (December 7, 2024)
Motorcycle racer Axel Pons stepped away from that pursuit and embarked on a barefoot journey around the world in 2019 in an effort to shed life’s burdens.
- Sports Illustrated article about Pons
- Crash.net article and video about Pons
- OddityCentral.com article and video about Pons
The Painful Reason Angelina Jolie Was Barefoot on the Tonight Show – by Christopher Rudolph, in NBC.com (December 6, 2024)
After breaking a toe and finding shoes uncomfortable, Jolie appears on the Tonight Show barefoot. Host Jimmy Fallon’s comment, “You don’t have to wear shoes. Just be comfortable. We’re just happy you’re here.” Perfect response.
Dick Van Dyke dances barefoot, sings and ruminates on life in new Coldplay music video – by Dan Heching, in CNN.com (December 6, 2024)
As 99-year-old actor Dick Van Dyke demonstrates, you’re never too old to ditch the shoes, choose fun and go barefoot.
Bills’ Mack Hollins Shows Up Barefoot to Snowy, 31-Degree Game — Here’s Why It’s a Ritual for the Wide Receiver – by Natasha Dye, in People.com (December 2, 2024)
Buffalo Bills pro football player Mack Hollins arrived barefoot for his team’s snowy December 1st game in Buffalo, NY. Hollins says he thinks “everyone should be barefoot” citing multiple health benefits.
Meet Tyler Leech, Founder of The Barefoot Autism Challenge– by Koi Reid, in Queer Vagabond Blog (November 18, 2024)
The story of Tyler Leech, a barefoot runner with autism who formed the Barefoot Autism Challenge to help bring awareness to autism issues and the related benefits of barefooting.
CRAZY!! Contestants with Unique FEET Talents – Youtube video (November 18, 2024)
An inspiring compilation of segments from the “Got Talent” TV broadcasts of various countries.
The Foot Phenomenon: Simple, Surprising Ways to Improve Your Balance, Health – and Longevity – by Phil Daoust, in The Guardian (November 13, 2024 – Originally published August 11, 2024)
Why do many people neglect their feet when they serve a crucial role in all forms of movement? At 61, the author describes how he decided to change all that for himself.
Original article in The Guardian (August 11, 2024)
6 times the royal family went barefoot from Princess Kate to Meghan Markle – by Isabelle Casey, in Hello Magazine (November 1, 2024)
While it doesn’t occur often, members of the royal family have slipped off their shoes from time to time, as covered here.
The Reason Why Some Top Fitness Pros Actually Prefer To Train Barefoot – by Andi Breitowich, in Woman’s Health Magazine (October 30, 2024)
Experts explain the potential benefits and share tips for how to safely try barefoot training. (Note: Ignore the first sentence which incorrectly discourages other barefoot activities–done successfully by many.)
Serene, Barefoot Luxury: Mnemba Island Reopens In The Indian Ocean – by Laurie Werner, in Forbes (October 25, 2024)
This secluded island surrounded by crystalline water has served as a favorite celebrity refuge for years. It also takes the concept of barefoot luxury seriously with shoes off and feet in the sand the moment one arrives.
Why Queen Camilla Appeared Barefoot During Her Australia Tour – by Kristin Contino, in Marie Claire (October 23, 2024)
After an exhausting day of royal engagements, what does a queen do? She slips off her pumps, of course, and carries them in hand to walk barefoot up the stairs of Admiralty House in Australia. And if a queen can do it . . .
What Do Yoga and Comedy Have in Common? At ‘Barefoot Comedy,’ More Than You Would Expect – by Angelina Ng, in Harvard Crimson (October 22, 2024)
A unique event combining comedy performances and Yoga that calls for performers and audience members to remove footwear to participate.
Is walking barefoot really good for you? The science behind barefoot walking – by [unnamed] Times Of India (October 9, 2024)
A nice summary of the health benefits of going barefoot, including stronger muscles, improved balance and connecting you with your natural gait.
Barefoot Dutchman visits Westmoreland on trek to support men’s mental health – by Jeff Himler, in TribLive (October 3, 2024)
The continuing saga of Anton Nootenboom, who served in Afghanistan with the Dutch Army and experienced mental health struggles after returning home.
In February, 2024 he took on the challenge to walk barefoot across America, Los Angeles to New York City, to raise money and awareness for men’s health.
Earlier article about him In Kansas (July 30, 2024), also listed below
Korea Destinations: Enjoy the best barefoot walking trails in Gimhae – Stars and Stripes / haps magazine Korea (September 25, 2024)
Gimhae City offers a barefoot walking haven as it promotes connecting with nature by walking barefoot. The city continues to expand its network of safe, barefoot-friendly walking paths, making it a common sight to see citizens strolling shoeless through the city center.
79-year-old preacher runs barefoot 15 miles a week; meet Jerrie Barber – by Forrest Sanders, TV News Channel 5, Nashville (September 18, 2024)
A positive news story about 79 year-old Preacher Jerrie Barber who has run barefoot since 2010. As he explains, “If I felt better when I was 20, I can’t remember it.”
Why does Mack Hollins go barefoot? Experts from Melbourne Muscular Therapies explain their ‘shoeless’ advice to Bills WR – by Gilbert McGregor, in Sporting News (September 12, 2024)
Hollins has made a deliberate choice to go barefoot in his daily life, working out, traveling to games, warming up, walking in public and during instructional TikTok videos. His reason: its benefits on his health and durability on the football field.
See more about Collins in July 1 and 29, 2024 links below.
Ultimate 10 Destinations for Barefoot Fun – by Factormyth(September 7, 2024)
This site has found ten barefoot friendly international travel destinations to choose for your next barefoot adventure.
An athletic trainer’s take on barefoot exercise – by Mitchell Anderson, in Parkview Health (September 6, 2024)
A certified athletic trainer reviews the benefits of barefoot exercise, implementation and important considerations.
Benefits include better foot mechanics, muscle strength and proprioception.
The teenage armless archer who captured the world’s attention – by Sophie Aubrey, in The Sydney Morning Herald/Australia (September 1, 2024)
While her peers use their arms to shoot, India’s Sheetal Devi relies on her legs and feet to compete in the women’s para-archery with the modern compound bow.
Related article: – By Issy Ronald, on CNN (September 3, 2024)
The Benefits of Walking Barefoot: A Physical Therapist’s Perspective – Blog by Breathe Physical & Wellness Staff, in Breathe (August 30, 2024)
A good summary of the health benefits of going barefoot, written from the perspective of a Physical Therapist. The author notes that while shoes can offer protection, walking without them offer unique advantages often overlooked.
Akron man says barefoot running changed his life – by Lindsay Buckingham, report and video, WKYC TV news (August 19, 2024)
VIDEO: Going to school barefoot in an island paradise– by Emma Siossian and Hannah Ross, in ABC News/Australia (August 16, 2024)
On world-heritage listed Lord Howe Island exists NSW’s most remote school, where learning also comes from the environment, and students go to school barefoot.
Europe has long had “barefoot walking trails.” Now the U.S. has one! (Note: we don’t necessarily endorse the grounding claims mentioned, but we wholeheartedly support offering sensory rich barefoot experiences!)
The foot phenomenon: simple, surprising ways to improve your balance, health – and longevity – by Phil Daoust, in The Guardian (August 11, 2024)
An excellent review of the benefits of caring for the health of our feet–especially as we age–and how to achieve that. Hint: going barefoot and doing foot exercises can play a significant role.
Princess Kate slips off her heels for rare barefoot moment – by Melanie MacLeod, in Hello Magazine (July 31, 2024)
As the article notes, the Princess of Wales occasionally needs to go shoeless. And if it works for a princess, why not the rest of us!
Barefoot historian walks learners through Carlisle history – by Maddie Seiler, in The Sentinel/Cumberlink.com (July 30, 2024)
It’s not just a metaphor. Courtney Cauthon, the Barefoot Historian, does not wear shoes while offering walking tours about Carlisle, PA’s history.
How did it begin? A tour guest informed her that she did not have historically accurate shoes. Valuing historical accuracy Cauthon decided to forego shoes for a time. People noticed, loved it and began calling her the “Barefoot Historian.” The name and choice stuck.
NOTE: The above article may have a paywall. The following articles also relate her story:
- History & Mystery: Carlisle’s colorful, spooky past retold in new walking tour, shoes optional (September, 2021)
- She’s made history her business, on the streets of Carlisle (October, 2021)
Everyone Loves Discovering Mack Hollins, Buffalo’s New Barefoot Wide Receiver– by Stephen Douglas, in SI (July 29, 2024)
Hollins prefers to go barefoot most of the time. He also gets many opportunities to explain his lifestyle preference, as covered in this article.
See more about Collins in July 1, 2024 link below.
Could you Fly an aircraft with ONLY your feet? – Youtube video by FlightChops (July 18, 2024)
Interview with Motivational speaker Jessica Cox, born without arms, who doesn’t let that deter her from anything, including piloting a plane with her feet. Here she demonstrates a new cockpit design developed specifically for those without arms.
The “Barefoot Dutchman” continues his journey in Kansas – WIBW Topeka, Kansas TV News segment (July 13, 2024)
Anton Nootenboom served in Afghanistan with the Dutch Army. After returning home, he experienced his first bout with mental health struggles.
In February, he took on the challenge to walk barefoot across America, Los Angeles to New York City, to raise money and awareness for men’s health.
More about Anton’s story here
Why walking barefoot can actually help your feet – in National Geographic(July 9, 2024)
The article covers recent studies highlighting the advantages of going barefoot and minimalist footwear–with proper transitioning for those not accustomed to walking barefoot.
NOTE: This site has a paywall.
The Original Barefoot-Luxury Brand Just Launched Soneva Secret in the Maldives – by Kee Foong, in Travel Leisure (July 5, 2024)
Covering the unveiling of a new Maldives retreat decades in the making, the article notes the Maldives’ reputation for not allowing footwear. The “no news, no shoes experience the Maldives is known for” begins upon arrival as a “dedicated barefoot guardian…whisks away your shoes.” Shoes just get in the way. Our kind of place!
Bills Wideout Mack Hollins talks barefoot lifestyle, fitting in with WR room, his favorite books, and more on “5 Questions”! – TV interview with Bills Team Reporter Maddy Glab, in BuffaloBills.com (July 1, 2024)
NFL football player Mack Hollins answers interviewer questions including why he chooses to go barefoot as a lifestyle choice.
Another article (February 10, 2024) with more details about Hollins’ barefoot choice.
Why Going Barefoot is the Choice for Many Gymnasts? – in Gymnast Gem, (June 26, 2024)
A review of why gymnasts go barefoot, including a range of benefits that enhance balance, flexibility and better tactile feedback during complex maneuvers.
Would You Visit A Barefoot Art Museum In Japan?– by Natasha D, in Travel Noire (June 6, 2024)
Throughout the museum, barefoot visitors embark on unique, sensory experiences as they go through the exhibits at teamLab Planets Tokyo.
Direct link to the Museum website
Barefoot Ninja competes on American Ninja Warrior – Video, NBC (June 3, 2024)
Segment shows barefoot competitor Langdon Dinsdale, a biomechanical specialist. Video includes his background story as a barefooter and competing on the Ninja Warrior course. (No spoiler alert. Watch to see his result.)
Here’s another link to the story (June 4, 2024)
Barefoot nurse to hike Tahoe Rim Trail for charity – by Brenna O’Boyle, in Tahoe Daily Tribune (May 29, 2024)
Thomas Edan, a barefoot Frenchman, plans to hike the Tahoe Rim Trail in June to raise funds for two charities. Inspired by his childhood experiences and travels, Edan has always felt drawn to the simplicity and freedom of barefooting. As he explained, “I love being grounded, connected to nature, and being a minimalist.” The spiritual and challenging journey will allow him to reconnect with what is essential in life.
Why Children Should Be Barefoot Until Age Four for Healthy Brain and Body Development – by Dr. Emily Splichal, Blog entry in Naboso (May 17, 2024)
An excellent article on the medical and health advantages of allowing young children to remain barefoot, by a renowned podiatrist (and founder of Naboso) who understands the benefits of going barefoot.
Natural Foot Care: NFL Player’s Journey – by John Welbourn, in Men’s Journal (May 2, 2024)
Former NFL football player John Welbourn discusses his health journey and the limitations of medicalized solutions for foot issues–highlighting the enduring value of barefoot living for better foot health. And it all started with the helpful advice of an understanding podiatrist!
Exploring Foot Function and Adaptation – Another installment with Welbourn on foot strength’s crucial role in health
This barefoot jungle walk in Tulum is like something out of a dream – on CNN World Wide Travel (April 24, 2024)
A travel reporter visits a blissful “barefoot jungle.” Part museum, part art gallery near Cancun, Mexico, it looks like Mexico’s answer to Europe’s “Barefoot Parks.” Entering calls for removing one’s footwear. Even the camera man joined in!
Barefoot man recorded jumping on alligator in Florida highway. ‘Hold my sweet tea’ – by Mark Price, in Miami Herald/Yahoo news April 23, 2024)
A barefoot Mike Dragich, a licensed trapper and MMA fighter, wrestled an alligator in traffic on a busy Florida road. His shoe-less state seemed to help him in his efforts. Remarkably, he was summoned from a minor league hockey game to save the day.
Another article covering this story.
Jodie Foster goes barefoot to cement her place in Hollywood history outside TCL Chinese Theatre – by Rob Hayes, in ABC7 Eyewitness News, Los Angeles (April 16, 2024)
When Hollywood icon Jodie Foster left her hand and footprints in cement outside Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre on April 12, she chose to do it barefoot.
Loretta Lynn’s Granddaughter Emmy Russell Reveals Why She Decided to Go Barefoot During Idol performance (Exclusive) – by Daniela Avila, in People (April 16, 2024)
It boiled down to wanting to remain authentic to herself and feel more comfortable. We understand.
American Writer article reports on the same question.
How Do You Feel About Driving Barefoot? – by Jason Torchinsky, in The Autopian (April 10, 2024)
The article addresses the title’s question and also counters many of the cautions so often raised about driving barefoot. It also requests readers’ input.
Going barefoot this month to learn about Autism – by Megan Reuther, in who13/TV-Iowa (April 1, 2024)
With April ushering in Autism Awareness Month, an Iowa TV news show interviews Tyler Leech, Founder of the Barefoot Autism Challenge, who uses his feet to educate people about the diagnosis.
Carpeted pedals!? Bike Shaggies promise carpeted comfort for barefoot cyclists – by Suvi Loponen, in Road.cc (March 30, 2024)
For those who prefer to cycle barefoot, Bike Shaggies might just fill the bill for a more comfortable, “magic carpet” ride.
Runner breaks world record for fastest barefoot half marathon on ice – by Abby Carney, in Runner’s World (March 19, 2024)
Josef Šálek, a therapist, lecturer, and personal development coach, clocked a cool time of 1:50:42, running barefoot and wearing nothing but a pair of shorts in freezing temperatures. He also smashed the previous record set by Dutch runner Wim Hof in 2007. Cool!
Barefoot Day – Dallas Museum of Art (March 15, 2024)
On Saturday, April 27, the museum will offer a unique opportunity to explore the Museum barefoot in support of the Barefoot Autism Challenge which coincides with Autism Acceptance Month (April).
The day will offer art activities throughout the Museum to explore barefoot. Fun!
Farmer to run three barefoot marathons in three days – by Erin Santillo, in BBC News, Somerset (March 9, 2024)
Matteo Grasso, a 25 year old farmer from Somerset, is in training to run the equivalent of more than three marathons in three days without shoes. Grasso says his feet have changed over the course of his six months of training. His goal: to make his feet like “Hobbit feet” (referring to the barefoot, leathery-soled characters in Tolkien’s Middle-earth novels).
The Barefoot Mailman and Florida’s Post Office Murals – in Orlando Weekly (March 3, 2024)
Local presentation by the Florida Humanities Speakers Bureau/Florida Talks presentation on Post Office murals and the Barefoot Mailman murals.
Between 1885 and 1893, rugged pioneers traversed the 136 miles between Palm Beach and Key Biscayne, Florida. They traveled 56 miles in small boats and the remaining 80 on foot, walking in the hard sand at the ocean’s edge. At least one did it barefoot. –
(Other links about the Barefoot Mailman story: The Barefoot Mailman/West Palm Beach and The Barefoot Mailman/FloridaHikes)
If it were up to Mack Hollins, everyone would be walking around barefoot – by Lior Lampert, in Fansided.com (February 10, 2024)
NFL Buffalo Bills football player Mack Hollins doesn’t like shoes. He’s known for showing up to games and warming up barefoot and has been “completely shoeless for two years” now, outside of a few exceptions.
While recovering from an injury he met trainers from Australia with a holistic approach who emphasized being barefoot. Hollins notes that going barefoot also helps build foot strength.
In Australia and New Zealand, Barefoot Is a Way of Life – by Natasha Frost, in New York Times (February 3, 2024)
Frost, NYT’s Australian correspondent, explains how New Zealanders and their Australian cousins like to go barefoot, including in public locations and businesses. She also covers the likely sociological reasons for this national practice.
TikTokers are going ‘incognito barefoot’ in public places — is ditching shoes good for you? – by Gregory Robinson, in Metro/UK (February 2, 2024)
Coverage of a new Tik-Tok “trend:” going barefoot in public, including wearing shoes with the soles cut out. The article notes the pros and cons of going barefoot and relates the story of SBL member Barefoot Ben, who has not owned any shoes for eight years.
Related story: NBC/WFLA news coverage of the Tik-tok couple who “renovated” their shoe collection by removing the soles to go barefoot. Update: this couple was apparently just doing a publicity stunt.
Never mind the chill, St. Helena’s barefoot farmer is still planting and picking at 74 – By Karl Puckett, in Island Packet (January 22, 2024)
Story of Jacky Frazier, barefoot proprietor of South Carolina’s Barefoot Farms for 30 years. “I don’t wear shoes,” says Frazier, “I just like being barefooted” (even in winter).
WWE Hall Of Famer Kevin Von Erich Explains Why He Chose To Wrestle Barefoot – by Faden Cloete and Ross W Berman IV, in WrestlingInc (January 2, 2024)
“Your boots, they soak sweat,” explains Kevin, “the socks, the leather boots, they get heavy, so I took ’em off one time . . . and you feel like you can fly taking that weight off your feet.”
The article notes that with the popularity of mixed martial arts and other combat sports, a number of professional wrestlers now wrestle barefoot, giving them more control. One views boots as “thick” and “clunky” appendages, strapped to the foot. We get it.ng 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.”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!