health
The unlikely appeal of barefoot hiking: ‘It makes you feel quite primal’
From clay trails in Seoul to remote Australian coastlines, a small but growing number of hikers are hitting the trail unshod. But what happens when you feel the ground beneath your feet?
TL;DR
- South Korea widely embraces barefoot walking with many parks featuring designated areas.
- Barefoot hiking is a growing hobby in Australia, with individuals organizing group walks.
- Practitioners report benefits such as improved balance, coordination, and a heightened sensory experience.
- Podiatrists suggest a gradual conditioning process to avoid injury.
- Hazards like ants, spiders, snakes, and sharp objects require vigilance.
- The practice is linked to a more primal connection with nature and increased awareness of the environment.