The Instructor 2.11.117

The use of shoes is partly for covering the feet and partly for protecting the sole of the foot against stumbling and the roughness of mountain paths. Women may be allowed white shoes, except when traveling, when they should use oiled leather; women who travel need nailed soles. But for the most part they should wear shoes; for it is not fitting to show the bare foot; and besides, a woman is easily slipped into harm. For a man, going barefoot is very fitting, except when he is on military service. Indeed, being shod is somehow close to being bound. Using bare feet is most ascetic and suited to health and ease, where no necessity prevents it. If we are not traveling and cannot bear going barefoot, we should use slippers or light white shoes; the Athenians called them “dust-feet,” because, it seems to me, they bring the feet near the dust. John is a sufficient witness to plain footwear, confessing that he was not worthy to untie the strap of the Lord's sandals. For he who showed the Hebrews the pattern of true philosophy wore nothing elaborate. If this hints at something, it will be shown elsewhere.