Why do people do Karate barefoot?
It is a tradition. I do believe there is a justification on a more subtle level with respect to the direct contact with the surface and the transmission of ki, but I do not feel, in the least, qualified to speak on this subject, I will include qualified opinions in the future. The most down to earth explanation could be the Japanese tradition of taking your shoes off before going in to a home. Another could be to strengthen your feet, thicken the skin and minimize the striking area while striking with the feet.
