Barefoot shoes and their benefits for autistic adults with sensory processing differences
As an autistic adult, walking barefoot is almost always my preference, but going outdoors with foot protection is often a non-negotiable!
Why barefoot?
Sensory differences often arise in conditions like autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder (SPD); this can cause trouble in processing and responding to sensory input in a typical way. Barefoot shoes, with their focus on sensory feedback from the ground, can offer significant benefits in managing such challenges. In my experience, barefoot shoes have made day-to-day life much more manageable.
Sensory processing differences can make it challenging for individuals to interpret or respond to sensory input, such as touch, sound, taste, or proprioception (the sense of body position in space). This can lead to heightened sensitivity or under-sensitivity to certain sensory stimuli for some individuals. Barefoot shoes can help to minimise this overload for those with these differences.
What are Barefoot shoes?
Barefoot shoes are footwear that intentionally mimic the natural movement and sensation of walking barefoot. They have thin, flexible soles that allow for better ground contact, prompting a natural arch and alignment of the foot. Barefoot shoes are lightweight, with little to no arch support, cushioning, or raised heels. This design encourages a more natural gait, allowing the foot to move in a more natural way.
How do Barefoot shoes help with sensory processing?
Conventional shoes with thick soles/heavy cushioning can contribute to sensory overload. Barefoot shoes, with a minimal and natural foot environment, reduce the sensory “masking” effect that traditional shoes create. This natural foot motion increases ground contact, helping avoid discomfort caused by overly padded or restrictive footwear.
These shoes offer several benefits for individuals with sensory processing issues; for instance, they provide more direct contact with the ground, which increases sensory feedback. Their thin, flexible soles allow you to feel the textures and surfaces beneath your feet more clearly, and they encourage the natural, healthy biomechanics of muscles and joints when walking and running. This enhanced proprioceptive feedback can help individuals with sensory issues better understand where their body is in space. It can lead to improved balance, coordination and comfort for us!
For some people with sensory issues (like me), feeling the ground more directly can also have a calming and grounding effect, providing clear sensory input to the feet. This can mean they feel more focused and in tune with their environment, which is particularly helpful in reducing the anxiety or restlessness that often accompanies sensory overwhelm.
Would you try barefoot shoes?
If you are interested in purchasing barefoot shoes, we have an Amazon affiliate link for you here.
This means we take a small amount of the proceeds from a sale, which we use to further our training on neurodiversity, to keep our blog running, and to create free resources, like posters, for those who need them.
