Barefoot Sailing

Despite owning some very good deck shoes and sailing boots, my preference is to sail barefoot.

In my experience, whether the deck is wet or dry, bare feet provide the best grip when underway. Since I used hank-on fore sails, I’m often on the foredeck changing sails, and haven’t found anything better.

I will wear shoes or sailing boots when the temperature are too low. Rule of thumb: If My Toes Go Numb, Time to Lace up.

The only hazard to sailing barefoot I’ve found is when guests, who may not be used to the motion of the boat, step on my toes.