It actually makes a lot of sense in my case Mimi. I have a hypermobile first ray which means I really CAN'T push off on my toes because the big toe joint goes too far back = lots of pain. With shoes on there is at least some support under that joint. Barefoot there is NOTHING to stop the rotation in that joint. In fact, my orthotics have a metal strip that runs under that joint to prevent it from overextending.

Now does it make sense? If I didn't have that problem I doubt it would hurt to walk barefoot.