Barefoot walking along a trail

@onewithshoes Like I said. There's some who do it differently. But very few and it has nothing to do with function. That's about something else. Light hiking on a groomed trail is what it is. That's not the reality for those who put in real miles in tougher conditions. That article mentioned the limitations. They didn't do the AT entirely barefoot. I don't wear shoes in my house and purposefully won't wear them outside at times. But that's to toughen up my feet so my risk of injury is less when I'm hiking. In shoes or boots. I prefer to go where I want, when I want and as fast I want. That doesn't happen barefoot.

@Ynotisay Yes, there are trade offs.
The first question is probably what is it about the experience that you most enjoy,
And for some, yes, it's the feel of the Earth under bare feet👣🥰 -- though for others that would mean nothing.😐
The next question is probably about how much weight you are willing to carry.
As to being limited to groomed trails, no, there aren't nearly enough of those.
We often find ourselves on rough, stoney ground, or long stretches of gravel road,
--and yes, those are times when I'm really glad I wear shoes -- but he doesn't need them.

You seem to be about racking up mileage and gaining a sense of accomplishment, and there's nothing wrong with that.😀
We're more about enjoying the outdoors for a few hours, and then getting back for a nice hot dinner and a good rest.😄

@Ynotisay Ive been walking and hiking barefoot on trails and yes granted mostly woodland trails and walks but thats what i enjoy. Ive never had any issues or injurys