Imagine a world where people never wore shoes. Would our feet be better off? For many of us, wearing shoes has been a daily habit since childhood. However, this might not always be the best choice for our feet. Shoes were originally invented to protect feet from injuries and harsh weather, but over time, they have become more about style and comfort than function.

Modern shoes often force our feet into unnatural shapes. Narrow toe boxes, high heels, and rigid soles (鞋底) can restrict natural movement and cause long-term damage. For example, the toes are often squeezed together, leading to deformities. This is why it’s rare to see feet that are truly natural in shape today.

If we never wore shoes, our feet would likely develop differently. They would be stronger and more flexible, with a natural spread of the toes. The arch of the foot would become sturdier, and the heels and balls of the feet would develop protective calluses. This would make our feet better adapted to walking on different surfaces.

Of course, there are drawbacks to going barefoot. Without shoes, feet are more vulnerable to injuries, infections, and extreme weather conditions. However, there is a solution: minimalist or natural footwear. These shoes are designed to mimic walking barefoot by allowing natural movement and providing sensory feedback to the brain. They have wide toe boxes, thin and flexible soles, and no heel elevation. This design helps restore natural foot function and prevent long-term damage.

In conclusion, while shoes are important for protection, traditional designs can harm our feet over time. By choosing natural footwear, we can promote healthier foot development and enjoy the benefits of walking as nature intended.

1.1. Why does the author mention “narrow toe boxes” and “high heels” in Paragraph 2?

A To list popular shoe styles.

B To explain fashion trends.

C To illustrate harmful designs.

D To discuss manufacturing methods.

解析：选C。C 推理判断题。第二段中，作者列举“narrow toe boxes”和“high heels”是为了具体说明现代鞋子的哪些设计特征会“限制自然活动并造成长期损伤”，从而支持本段论点：现代鞋子迫使脚变成不自然的形状。因此，提到这些是为了举例说明有害的设计。故选C。

2.2. What does the author imply about “protective calluses”?

A They are a sign of poor health.

B They are undesirable features.

C They are natural adaptations.

D They require medical treatment.

解析：选C。C 推理判断题。第三段描述赤脚状态下脚部会“更好地适应在不同路面行走”。由此可推断，作者认为这是脚部一种自然的、有益的适应性变化，而非负面现象。故选C。

3.3. How does the author develop the argument in Paragraph 4?

A By rejecting all opposing views.

B By presenting a balanced solution.

C By emphasizing extreme positions.

D By ignoring potential problems.

解析：选B。B推理判断题。第四段首先承认赤脚的缺点(drawbacks to going barefoot)，但随即提出一个折中的解决方案——极简主义鞋履(minimalist or natural footwear)，并解释了其好处。这种先承认问题再提出解决方案的方式，体现了一种平衡的论证方法。故选B。

4.4. What is the author’s overall attitude towards traditional shoes?

A Completely approving.

B Strongly critical.

C Indifferent and neutral.

D Cautiously questioning.

解析：选D。D 观点态度题。作者在开头承认鞋子最初的保护目的，并在最后一段再次肯定其重要性(shoes are important for protection)。但全文更多地是指出传统鞋子的设计缺陷和长期危害。这种既肯定其初始价值又批判其现代发展的态度，是一种谨慎的质疑(Cautiously questioning)，而非全盘否定(Strongly critical)或完全赞同(Completely approving)。故选D。