I discovered barefoot in the summer of 1993 in the USA, Los Angeles, California. It is common in this megalopolis bordered by 80 km of beach, and given a very favorable climate, that people walk barefoot. For example, they take off their shoes on their way home, then find that they are missing groceries for the meal and go barefoot to the store without taking the time to put shoes back on. This practice is so common that it is not uncommon for some stores to display signage at the entrance requiring the wearing of shoes.
I found it very pleasant, freed from the « straitjacket » of shoes.
Back in France, I occasionally reproduced the experience, the following summers on holiday places, on pleasant grounds (beaches, countryside, …). Little by little, always on vacation, I started walking barefoot in the city. Why on holiday only? First for the season, the summer, but also to be away from the eyes of people I know.
But the « addiction » began to be felt, so on the one hand I no longer waited for the summer walking barefoot from the first days of spring, and prolonging the pleasure in autumn, seasons bringing other sensations and pleasures.
I also embarked on other grounds, especially the cities and mostly Paris only 2 hours drive from home, and offering the possibility of walking there for hours. And of course, without the risk of meeting people I knew and with whom I should have justified this practice.
I have very rarely practiced in my city, this « marginality » could have harmed me professionally, even if I only did it in my free time.
On the other hand, little by little I put my friends in confidence, and for those who did not mind, I was able to take off my shoes during walks with them.
But I made common use of it, in all weather and all places, when I had the chance to meet a girlfriend, almost 10 years ago, who told me that she had wanted it for a long time but without ever having dared.
Once initiated, it was she who encouraged me to affirm this choice. And during a practice in cup, curious passers-by come more easily to ask questions, the pretty smile that my companion addressed to them in front of their questioning looks is surely for many.
It was at this time that I pushed the experience even in winter by negative temperatures, especially at Christmas markets.
Although separated now, I thank her for allowing me to fully assume my taste for barefoot, I believe that « the student had surpassed the master ».