For many of us, shoes are more than just a practicality. They’re a fashion statement, a symbol of status, even an essential part of our daily routine. But for Plattsmouth resident Layne Stanford, a life without shoes is a return to nature, an embodiment of freedom, and a direct connection to the world beneath our feet. Layne, known to many as the “barefoot guy,” brings together his deep-rooted Christian faith and his conviction in walking barefoot in a union of beliefs and actions that challenges conventional norms.
“It started innocently enough,” Layne recalls. “A couple of years ago, my wife and I would go on walks, and I just quit putting on flip flops. It was liberating. I felt every change in the terrain, from the temperature difference just walking through a Walmart to the myriad textures of sand, water, and grass. Why waste money on shoes when you have 15,000 sensory receptors on the sole of your foot?” he added with a chuckle. “Walk in water, sand, grass… and feel the temperature difference just walking through a Walmart.”
But it wasn’t just a casual decision. After a nasty fall due to his work boot’s heel catching on a step, Layne delved into the health benefits of walking barefoot. Much like his faith, it was a conscious, introspective choice grounded in experience and understanding. “God engineered a really good design in the human body,” he says. One major revelation was the natural role of the calf muscle as a shock absorber, lessening the stress on knees and hips.
Layne’s barefoot journey has, unsurprisingly, drawn attention. From local stores to vacation spots, he’s encountered many reactions. At a restaurant in Michigan, an issue arose with a manager citing health concerns. But Layne’s well-researched approach often defuses any apprehension: “There are no state or federal health laws against being barefoot in a business establishment.”
A sense of community has been fostered online as well. Layne shares his experiences on several Facebook groups, even becoming a local celebrity of sorts. “It’s funny to be recognized in town and have people come up to you with that question ‘aren’t you that barefoot guy?’” he muses.
Beyond the physical and health benefits, walking barefoot has prompted deeper introspection. “I enjoy feeling the freedom of being barefoot.” Layne says, “You can’t be concerned about what others think. I turned 60 in June, and I have an attitude to do what I want respectfully. Quit being intimidated.”
Adding to his intriguing persona, Layne also rides a Penny Farthing, a high-wheeled bicycle reminiscent of a bygone era. While acknowledging its historical roots, Layne’s addition of riding it barefoot adds a new layer to its charm. “You don’t just jump on one and go, you have to learn how,” he shares about the Penny Farthing experience, adding, “Folks want to take pictures too. I’ve had people driving cars stop in traffic to take a picture,” he said.
Navigating the world barefoot isn’t always smooth, but it’s made Layne a local legend and a living testament to the joys of simplicity. For those inspired by his journey, Layne offers advice: “Start walking barefoot around your neighborhood. Build up to going further and over different terrain.”
The Bible often speaks of faith as a journey, a pilgrimage of sorts. For Layne, this pilgrimage is taken barefoot. He feels the nuances of the world beneath him, much as he feels the touch of God’s grace in his life. Each step is a reminder of the world’s intricacies, just as every scripture verse reminds him of the vastness and detail of God’s word.
His barefoot journey serves as a tangible metaphor for his spiritual journey. Both require vulnerability, resilience, and a certain fearlessness against skepticism or misunderstanding. By walking shoeless, Layne has stripped away a protective barrier, allowing him to connect deeply with the Earth, much like his faith allows him to connect with a higher power.
Furthermore, Layne’s well-researched defense of being barefoot in business establishments mirrors his evangelical commitment to his faith. He’s prepared to answer questions, address concerns, and stand firm in his choices. It’s a testament to the depth of his convictions in both arenas of his life.
And while he receives varied reactions for his shoeless lifestyle, much like any public display of faith might, Layne remains unfazed. He’s committed to feeling the world beneath him and the heavens above, leaning into the idea that both provide a sense of grounding and connection.
In an age of rapid technological advancement and detachment from nature, Layne Stanford’s choice to literally ground himself serves as a potent reminder of the sensations, experiences, and connections we might be missing out on. As he rides his Penny Farthing through the streets of Plattsmouth, one can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, a longing for simpler times, and perhaps, a desire to kick off our shoes and feel the world beneath our feet.
Love what your doing! I have always loved going bare foot but when I was at home mom dad always made me wear shoes most of the time. When I was in the house you can bet I didn’t have shoes on and around in our yard. When I got married back to bare footed in the house all the time. I hate shoes. Feet are interesting so many pressure spots on the bottom for eyes, back , pain in body. Never gotten into it but think it would be interesting.🤗
I luv the bike always wanted to try riding one. Also like the shirt would like to know where you got it? I am barefoot 24/7 unless i have to go into a store or business. After a few confrontations I no longer attempt to enter stores barefoot. A few exceptions are my bank, post office & auto parts store. It makes me crazy when I walk through Walmart on their nicely polished floors, but that is where I was hassled the worst I don’t have the personality for confrontation so I simply suck it up & wear flip flops. I envy you Layne!
There’s barefoot groups on Facebook that are helpful in dealing with stores and businesses. I rarely get hassled anymore.