Israelis Embrace Barefoot Living for Health and Connection

A growing number of Israelis are choosing to go barefoot in everyday life, citing benefits for physical health and a deeper connection to their surroundings. Oded Kav, a resident of Yeruham, rarely wears shoes, even for business meetings, weddings, or synagogue services, a practice he shares with his wife Meital and younger children. Their older son, a basketball player, has also begun adopting a barefoot or minimalist sandal lifestyle. The Kavs, who run a wellness center, were initially met with stares and even offers of money to buy shoes for their children, but Oded insists it's not a gimmick, but a way to feel more present and connected to the ground.

Oded's journey began with minimalist "Barefoot" shoes after reading Christopher McDougall's book "Born to Run." He found that transitioning to barefoot walking and running eliminated chronic knee pain he had suffered from for years, a sentiment echoed by Meital, who experienced relief from foot and knee pain. While minor injuries like stepping on thorns occur, they manage them with tweezers, and Oded recounts only one serious incident with glass in seven years.

Anat Assaf, another resident, also incorporates barefoot living into her family's routine, seeing it as a way to build resilience by exposing children to natural conditions. She believes that constant adaptation to the environment, rather than immediate comfort, fosters strength. Her family, while mostly barefoot, uses shoes when necessary for safety or specific activities, like working on a farm with heavy equipment.

Rom Karmi, known online as "Rom the Barefoot One," grew up in a kibbutz where barefoot walking was common. After a difficult experience in military boots, he embraced barefoot running, inspired by Abebe Bikila. He finds it provides a sense of freedom and has revitalized his passion for running, eliminating past knee injuries. While he acknowledges the increased exposure to debris, he prioritizes running in daylight and washing his feet afterward.

Medical professionals offer a nuanced perspective. Dr. Ben Arima, an orthopedic specialist, suggests barefoot walking can strengthen foot muscles and improve posture if done correctly, but warns that not all foot structures are suited for it, especially for those with high arches, foot deformities, or diabetes. Dr. Efrat Solomon Cohen, a dermatologist, highlights risks of infections from fungi, viruses, or parasites, as well as potential skin issues like cracks and calluses from constant friction on hard surfaces. Both advise gradual adaptation and suggest starting on softer surfaces, with Dr. Solomon Cohen recommending shoes or sandals for most outdoor activities outside of appropriate places like beaches.