Published: June 24, 2025
You know the feeling of coming home from a long day on site or in the office and kicking off your shoes? Feeling the decking, floors, or soft grass under your feet seems to dissolve the stresses and strains of the day into the ground below. For a split moment, it’s hard to remember that you’re an adult…with responsibilities.
But this isn’t just about feeling nostalgic; there’s a scientific theory behind it.
It feels good, and it’s great for your mental and physical health too. Unfortunately, most homes, offices, and outdoor spaces just aren’t suitable for bare feet. Traditional wooden decks splinter, and burn feet if the deck’s been exposed to the sunshine; tiles are ice-cold in winter; carpets hold onto dust and debris; and concrete is hot and uncomfortable.
This is where Best Deck’s composite wood decking and SPC flooring are game-changers. They’re smooth, comfortable, a great temperature, and free of splinters or cracks.
1. Why Your Body Wants You to Go Barefoot
Stronger Feet, Fewer Aches
Our ancestors didn’t wear cushioned pumps or stiff leather shoes – they walked barefoot, and their feet were stronger for it. Modern research shows that ditching shoes can:
- Strengthen your foot muscles, reducing problems like plantar fasciitis.
- Improve your balance by activating the tiny stabiliser muscles.
- Encourage a more natural stride, easing the strain that’s put on your knees and hips.
- Accelerate general healing in our body, thanks to the charged ions from the earth.
- Minimise inflammation in the body.
- Reduce fatigue.
- Strengthen ankles, legs, and back muscles.
- Reduce the risk of bunions and hammertoes.
In South Africa, where outdoor living is a way of life, a barefoot-friendly home isn’t just a luxury – it’s a health hack.
Stress Less, Sleep Better
A walk on the beach or grass has an almost-instant calming effect. That’s earthing – the idea that direct contact with the earth balances your body’s electrical charge, reducing stress and inflammation.
Studies suggest it can lower cortisol (the stress hormone), improve sleep by syncing with natural rhythms, and boost your mood.
With Best Deck’s soft, textured surfaces, you can bring that calming, natural feel right into your home and outdoor space.
2. The Problem with Traditional Decks (They’re Not Barefoot-Friendly)
Splinters: The Silent Saboteur
Wooden decks look good, until you step on a hidden splinter or a jagged crack. Natural wood weathers and deteriorates, leading to painful splinters (especially for children and pets), rough patches that need constant sanding, and rot, especially in humid coastal areas.
The Summer “Frying Pan” Dance
The South African sun gets traditional timber decks hot enough to braai a boerie on. Dark wood absorbs even more heat, reaching temperatures that can literally burn your skin. Suddenly, your relaxing braai area becomes a “tip-toe sprint” zone.
High Maintenance Equals Less Relaxation
Wood decks demand constant maintenance, including:
- Annual sanding and sealing to prevent wear.
- Fighting insect infestations.
- Fixing warping and cracking after rain or harsh sun.
Bottom line: If you love barefoot living, traditional wood is working against you.
3. How Best Deck Makes Barefoot Living Easy
Never Battle Splinters Again
Best Deck’s composite wood planks don’t splinter. They are smooth but textured. They’re gentle on your feet, but have a bit of grip when wet.
They’re also consistently superior. So, there are no rough surprises, even after decades of use. This means that they pet-approved and child-friendly, because they don’t splinter and hurt little feet.
Cool Underfoot
Unlike traditional wood or concrete, Best Deck’s composite wood materials:
- Reflect heat instead of absorbing it.
- Stay comfortable, even in peak summer.
- Come in lighter shades for extra heat resistance.
No Slips, No Falls
Wet decks and floors are a hazard, but Best Deck’s surfaces:
- Stay grippy even when wet (perfect near swimming pools).
- Resist algae.
- Won’t get slick like tiles or worn wood.
Zero Maintenance!
While wood decks demand weekends of sanding and staining, Best Deck products never need sealing or painting, and they won’t warp, crack, or rot.
Your Home Should Invite You to Go Barefoot
Make sure sore feet, splinters, and scorching decks are never on the agenda. If your outdoor space isn’t making barefoot living effortless, it’s time for an upgrade.
Best Deck’s composite decking and flooring are designed for real life – where kids run freely, pets nap in the sun, and adults actually relax. Ready to step into a softer, simpler outdoor life? Let’s build your dream deck.
Barefoot-friendly living with Best Deck: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is barefoot living good for you?
Going barefoot strengthens your feet, improves balance and posture, reduces inflammation, lowers stress and enhances sleep. It reconnects you with the natural environment through a wellness concept called “earthing” – direct contact with the ground that balances your body’s energy and reduces cortisol levels.
What makes Best Deck’s composite wood barefoot-friendly?
Best Deck’s composite wood is smooth, splinter-free and cool underfoot, even in the South African sun. The surface is lightly textured for safe grip and comfort, making it ideal for children, pets and anyone who enjoys walking barefoot at home.
Is Best Deck decking suitable for sensitive feet or medical conditions?
Yes. Best Deck’s composite decking is designed for maximum comfort, with a non-splintering surface that eases pressure on feet, joints and muscles. It’s ideal for people recovering from foot injuries or managing conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis or general fatigue.
Does composite wood get hot in the sun?
Unlike traditional timber or tiles, Best Deck’s composite materials reflect heat instead of absorbing it. This keeps decks cooler underfoot, especially in light-coloured finishes designed for thermal performance in summer.
Are Best Deck surfaces safe when wet?
Absolutely. Best Deck’s decking and flooring retain grip even in wet conditions. They’re resistant to algae growth and won’t become slippery like tiles or worn wood. This makes them perfect for poolside use and coastal properties.
How do traditional wooden decks compare?
Natural wood decks can splinter, warp and overheat. They require regular sanding, sealing and repairs. Best Deck composite decking avoids all of these issues, offering a consistently smooth surface with no painful surprises.
Can Best Deck composite decks be used indoors?
Yes. Best Deck also offers SPC flooring solutions that bring the same barefoot comfort and durability indoors. It’s ideal for bedrooms, lounges and barefoot living areas where warmth, softness and low maintenance are key.
Is Best Deck decking suitable for coastal or humid areas?
Definitely. Best Deck products are engineered to resist moisture, UV rays and decay, making them an excellent option for homes in humid and coastal regions. They do not rot, warp or crack like timber in challenging climates.
Are there any health benefits to using Best Deck products?
Yes. By making it easier and safer to go barefoot, Best Deck’s products support better posture, reduced stress, and enhanced relaxation – all of which contribute to a healthier lifestyle at home.
How can I upgrade my space to a barefoot-friendly outdoor area?
Start by contacting Best Deck via bestdeck.co.za for a consultation, or contact us directly on 076 374 9187. Our expert team will help you select the best barefoot-safe materials for your home, whether it’s a deck, pergola or indoor SPC flooring.
