Why Do Some Drummers Prefer Drumming Barefoot?

Why Do Some Drummers Prefer Drumming Barefoot?

Drummers make all kinds of interesting wardrobe choices, whether shirtless or otherwise. Most people would assume these wardrobe choices are just a part of the drummer’s identity. Many would be surprised to hear that some drummers prefer drumming barefoot to help perform. But why do some drummers prefer drumming barefoot?

Drummers all have their preferences when it comes to footwear, but some of the most common choices are:

  • Barefoot for the increased feel of the pedals
  • Socks for some protection without losing connection
  • Sneakers or other flat-soled shoes

Naturally, there is no right or wrong method for footwear (or lack thereof) for drumming. Each option, though, has pros and cons that might make you think a little bit differently about how you play drums yourself. 

What are the Benefits of Playing Drums while Barefoot?

In today’s world of the internet and continued access to footage of drummers from all eras and their respective techniques, you have likely stumbled upon different footwear methods in studying the way your drum heroes play. 

Many Barefoot Drummers Prefer the Increased Pedal Feel

Playing drums while barefoot gives you a much better feel of the pedals. This is because there are no extra layers between your feet and the pedals. This increased connection can give you better control over the pedals.

Some drummers who focus on very nuanced, technical playing might prefer increased control. While it can seem to an observer like playing the drums barefoot would not make much of a difference for a drummer’s technique, that is not always the case.

Barefoot Drumming Involves Less Weight

Similar to how barefoot drumming allows for better pedal control, it can also help decrease the weighted feeling drummers might get in their feet, especially after a particularly long set. 

Even thin shoes add some weight to drummers’ feet, which can impact a player’s ability to perform for a more extended period, or at least the ability to play with accuracy for a more extended time. 

With less weight on the drummer’s feet, it is easier to perform for extended periods without the same level of exhaustion that a drummer might experience while wearing shoes for performance or even just a practice session. 

Barefoot Drumming Can Keep Your Feet Cooler

You can imagine that a drummer’s shoe-clad feet can get extremely hot and sweaty during a performance or practice session. Drummers can get hot very fast with all of the movement and infrequent pauses to cool down.

Some drummers prefer to drum barefoot to avoid this uncomfortable experience. Even without socks or shoes, drummers can still experience hot, sweaty feet while playing. Some of these drummers set up a small fan aimed at their feet to facilitate even more coolness. 

What are the Drawbacks of Playing Drums while Barefoot?

Even though many drummers undoubtedly feel that they benefit from being barefoot, others think that drumming while barefoot is terrible.

There is Less Protection of the Feet when Barefoot Drumming 

It is typically harder to hurt or injure a drummer’s feet when with shows on than a barefoot drummer. If you are not careful enough, you might find that your feet end up being hit by or caught on some of the pedals.

Any barefoot drumming that takes place in more extreme weather situations, such as winter or summer, exposes the drummer’s feet to even more possible opportunities for injuries while playing. It is a lot easier to sustain injuries from hitting your bare feet on other parts of the drum set.

You may also have an increased chance of developing callouses or blisters on your feet if you play barefoot since there is more friction between your feet and the pedals.

Drumming Barefoot Can Be More Slippery

Although many drummers play barefoot to achieve a more controlled pedal feel, the opposite can sometimes result. As you play for longer and in a more active manner, your feet can get hot.

This, in turn, can cause your feet to become very sweaty and slippery on the pedals. For some drummers, this slippage is minor, but it can be a significant distraction for others. 

Do Some Drummers Like to Play in Socks Only?

Just like there are plenty of drummers who prefer to drum barefoot, and like there are plenty of drummers who like to drum with shoes on, there are many drummers who prefer playing in socks only. 

As with playing drums barefoot, drumming with just socks can help to create a more connected feeling with the pedals. 

One of the most significant benefits of drumming in socks is the ease drummers have when doing the sliding technique. The more effortless ability to slide along the pedals can help with this technique. 

What Shoes are the Best for Drumming?

Of course, plenty of drummers chooses to wear shoes when they play. Whether they wear shoes for protection, comfort, or better power, drummers are often picky about the shoes they wear for playing. 

Look for Lightweight Shoes

Generally speaking, it is best to wear lightweight shoes when drumming. This light shoe choice allows you to play for more extended periods with more accuracy. Lightweight shoes are also more breathable and ventilated to keep your feet more comfortable.

Some drummers will practice with heavier shoes or even ankle weights to make it much easier to drum in lightweight shoes for actual performances. This heavier shoe choice is a great way to build stamina and endurance for live performances.

Flat-Soled Shoes are Best

Flat-soled shoes are the best when matching the natural shape of your foot. Drumming, specifically, pedal work requires as much even contact as possible. The heel, toes, and ball of the foot should ideally get with the pedals as they would barefoot on the ground.

Since flat-soled shoes are the best option for drummers, many drummers opt for common shoe brands and designs not made explicitly for drummers.

Many Commercial Sneakers are Great for Drumming

Converse (or Chuck Taylor) sneakers are very popular among drummers. They have flat soles and a canvas upper that helps create a very breathable feel. Plus, they come in lots of different colors for your preferences. 

Similarly, lots of drummers like Vans because of their flat-sole design. Vans are great options for drummers who want a little more weight and layering in the shoe than a pair of Converse can provide.

Many drummers talk about finding that wrestling shoes are great for drumming. This style of shoes also has a flat-sole design and a lightweight material that is great for a breathable feeling. 

Finding the right pair of shoes can be a pretty big deal for drummers.

Final Thoughts on Drumming Footwear

All in all, there are practically endless options for what kind of footwear a drummer can choose from. Barefoot drumming has been the preferred method of many drummers, even famous ones, for the increased feeling of connection on the pedals. 

Socks are also great for drummers because they provide more protection than bare feet without losing increased control over the pedals. Socks also help with the sliding technique.

For the most protection and power, flat-soled shoes offer an excellent feel for drummers overall. 

Similar Posts