I thought I'd share a couple links with people. I've been hiking barefoot for about 8 years now and love it. The body is capable of so much more than people commonly realize.
"The hikers of the barefoot world tramp not only through mud and dust, but also over rocks, tree roots and the frosty ground of autumn (though they usually draw the line at snow). Yet although they may bring to mind tales of fakirs or extreme-sports enthusiasts, barefoot hikers are neither ascetics nor thrill seekers. Almost universally, they say they go shoeless for a sense of communion with the earth and for the sheer pleasure of feeling more of the world with their feet.
[...]
DR. DAVID E. SAMUEL, a podiatric surgeon in Philadelphia, notes that the skin is a very sensitive organ and says that constant barefooting will increase that sensitivity, which seems to explain barefoot hikers’ enjoyment."
Footloose and Boot Free: Barefoot Hiking - New York Times
"Why We Hike Barefoot . . .
* The sensual variety of ground textures and temperatures
* The healthy pleasure of natural foot flexing
* The feeling of freedom
* The safety of being able to take hold of the ground directly
* No blisters or hot, sweaty, cramped feet.
* Contrary to popular belief, there is nothing uniquely inadequate about human feet
* Bare feet are quickly conditioned starting with short walks on soft trails.
* Thickened soles nevertheless retain sensitivity to ground textures
* Healthy bare feet have tough flexible soles and strong nimble toes designed to form themselves to the earth.
* Safety is increased as a result of enhanced awareness of the nature of the ground and the placement of the feet."
Barefoot Hiking