I like to sew barefoot or in socks. I can't really "feel" the presser foot with shoes on and just am generally more comfy without. Of course, we don't wear shoes in the house either, so it is pretty normal for me to be padding around in socks. I am very fastidious about keeping my floor clean in my sewing room - I do not want to be the gal posting a picture of a needle through my foot!!!