Most people’s morning routine includes choosing a pair of socks and closed-toe shoes to pair for the day. A seemingly growing minority, however, consider whether they even want to cover their toes at all. Despite the traction that this movement is gaining, closed-toed shoes will always provide unmatched consistency and security.
For many, wearing socks with sneakers, boots, or another type of toed shoe feels like the natural choice. In a society where bare feet are accepted only at the fringes of society, letting the dogs out at school seems indefensible. Mateo Gonzalez, a senior at the School, personally abstains from sockless behavior. “I feel naked having my feet out in public,” he said.
Alongside personal discomfort to show off one’s trotters in an academic setting comes a respect for others that quashes much of the School’s urge to unleash the beasts. Kaley Carter, another senior at the School, feels comfortable with her own feet but recognizes that other people may not want to see them. “There’s just no reason to have my toes out unprotected from the elements and the Head-Royce community’s scrutiny,” Carter said. As the old saying goes, “After the feet, nothing’s discreet.” Of course, as we all know, some things are better left unknown.
Senior Maya Pabla refuses to abide by the cultural norms governing beneath-the-ankle etiquette. “Wearing flip-flops to school is amazing,” Pabla said, “Not only is it freeing, it’s also very convenient. It allows your feet to be at the perfect temperature at all times.” However, with Oakland’s moderate climate, it is frankly hard to believe that one’s stompers will get too sweaty barring any unique circumstances.
Chris Kinney, a math and engineering teacher at the School, is well-known as a fervent flip-flop fanatic, known for even wearing them in the rain. Defending his decision, Kinney shared, “I don’t like wet socks.” He contested the controversy surrounding his feet, exclaiming, “There’s nothing fanatical about my fervent love of flip-flops.”
Even if neither personal inhibitions nor social conditioning convince one to slide into socks and sneakers, closed-toed shoes’ practicality is undeniable. They protect your feet from physical harm, mitigating the effects of falling objects, stubbed toes, or an unfortunate tumble. Furthermore, they provide a barrier that keeps your feet pure, blocking out grime, dust, and even spilled condiments. While many elements of American society need reform, our tendency to tame our toes does not.