“I Rode Barefoot on My Bike as a Kid—65 Years Later, I Can Still Feel the Pain!”
As a child, nothing felt more freeing than racing down the street on my bike, the wind rushing through my hair, the sun warming my skin, and the feeling of total liberation. But there was one thing that made my rides a little… more intense. I always rode barefoot.
There’s something thrilling about the direct connection between your bare feet and those cold, unforgiving pedals. It felt raw, almost primal. I remember the excitement of pedaling faster and faster, the cool metal underfoot, and the sense of power and freedom it gave me.
But with every thrilling ride came the painful truth—the pedals weren’t built for bare feet.
At first, the sting wasn’t much. But after hours of riding, the pressure and friction would start to bite. The burning sensation would creep in, and by the time I’d come to a stop, the tops of my feet would be sore and blistered. Yet, I didn’t care. I was a kid, and I was invincible. That was part of the adventure, right?
But now, decades later—65 years, in fact—I can still feel it. Those sharp, sudden memories of pain flash back every time I walk across a rough surface or stub my toe. The funny thing is, no matter how many years pass, I’ll never forget that feeling. And trust me, I don’t think my feet will ever fully forgive me either.
So, here’s a tip for the brave souls out there who think barefoot biking is a good idea: maybe stick to shoes. Trust me, your feet will thank you later.