well, I spent many years working in jobs where sandals and/or bare feet were either forbidden or downright dangerous! Consequently, I never developed the habit and calluses to go barefoot...nor did I ever need sandals much. But now, I find that my right foot seems to be getting sensitive in its (my) old age. So, I went out and bought TWO good pair of sandals last week, one open toe, one black pair closed toe which really looks quite good WITH socks....and besides, I just received 3 pair of socks with Tasmanian animals on them...and what better way to show them off!