British companies are trialling no-shoes policies as a way to improve focus, comfort and morale, inspired by Silicon Valley startups where footwear-free floors are reportedly spreading. With record levels of work-related stress in the UK, rising burnout and a labour force increasingly focused on wellbeing, even small changes can have a surprising impact.
Natalie James, founder of skincare startup helloSKIN, introduced a sock-only policy at her UK office last year. “Offices are, by their very nature, stressful environments,” she said. “If a little thing like taking off your shoes makes you feel more comfortable – and thus be more creative – then that’s a no-brainer.” She reports an increase in calmness, focus and creativity.
Gary Byrnes, CEO of tech company Tao Climate, encourages shoeless working globally, saying anything that makes the office easier is good for productivity and wellbeing. Andy Hague, CEO of Tech West Midlands, who is neurodiverse, finds wearing shoes destabilising and says it reduces his concentration by 30%. “That lack of feeling is profoundly destabilising,” he added.
However, not everyone is convinced. Aaron Asadi, CEO of Enterprise Nation, said: “We believe in shoes.” Professor Mustafa Özbilgin of Brunel University warned the trend could place unfair pressure on women, as dress is part of how they are judged professionally. He also noted potential generational tension between younger and older workers.
Amanda Nicols, deputy CEO of Delapré Abbey preservation trust in Northampton, works shoe-free in the ancient building, saying it helps her move faster. She wears shoes for formal meetings, but her events team has started to follow suit. The trend may not become universal, but it reflects a growing focus on employee wellbeing and neurodiversity in the workplace.
