When Silva lived in Southern California, she was constantly hassled. She attended College of the Canyons in Valencia and was teased. When barefooters do wear shoes, it's not necessarily to please store owners. There are situations where shoes are preferred and the preference varies with each person. Some people wear them when running, hiking, bicycling, or when it rains.
Some people even drive barefoot, although it takes getting used to.
Contrary to urban legend, it is legal to drive barefoot in California. Footwear is first and foremost a protective device, like a hard hat, Lucas said. I'm barefoot unless there's a good reason to wear shoes. Bare feet require care, which may include rubbing down thickened calluses about once a month, Keel said. Anyone considering shoelessness should consult a health professional about proper care.