Our feet deserve more attention. We train our entire bodies but often forget about our feet. A growing number of people in the Netherlands choose to walk barefoot all the time.
Walking barefoot naturally changes the way you walk. You take shorter steps, walk more upright, and land more softly. This results in lighter and more efficient movement. For those who find going barefoot everywhere a bit too much, there are special barefoot shoes. These shoes don’t do anything except offer protection. They provide no support, no heel elevation, and allow your toes to spread and move freely. Functionally, they mimic walking barefoot—just with protection.
But whether walking barefoot is truly good for our feet is hard to say.
The literature on this is inconsistent. Some studies show that barefoot walking can cause injuries in the short term, while others suggest it may actually help prevent knee problems.
Sometimes, shoes are the better option. For example, if you have sensitive toes or a stiff toe joint, a shoe with a firm sole can help prevent twisting and pain in the joint.
Also, for people with reduced sensation or circulation—such as with diabetes—going barefoot is not recommended. Without shoes, a wound may develop unnoticed and fail to heal properly. Always consult a foot specialist beforehand.