Barefoot!

A couple of years ago, my Dad read this book about the excellent running form and healthy feet of the Tarahumara people, even though they are mostly barefoot. When he told me about it, I got really excited. I decided to spend as much time barefoot as I could. From early spring until almost winter, I am barefoot outside.

I’m not sure how much this has strengthened my feet, but I really like it. I go barefoot in nearby wetlands most of the year. My goal each year is to have my feet accustomed to the forest floor by the time summer comes and the alpine trails open up. I still hike in shoes, but around camp I love to be barefoot and feel the dirt. It also lets me wade right on in to any lakes or streams we might be camped by.

It’s a simple thing to do to make hiking even more fun, and it’s free! Give it a try!