In the world of kinks, perhaps none is as widely known (yet stigmatised) as the foot fetish.
That’s why it’s important to look at the foot fetish, and understand exactly what it is, and why it’s so popular.

Dipping A Toe Into Foot Fetishes

Where Do Foot Fetishes Come From?

There’s a lot of speculation as to when exactly foot fetishes started taking off.
However, the oldest source can be traced back to the 8th century, in ancient Hindu religious texts.
But the origin of the fetish for feet isn’t necessarily the same as the cause of foot fetishes.

What Causes Foot Fetishes?

Unfortunately, there’s no specific answer to this question.
There are a few theories, though.

Neural Crosstalk

This is a fancy way of saying “your brain's confused”.
This theory poses that, because the part of your brain that gets aroused when you’re sexually stimulated is linked to the part that responds to stimulation of the feet.
This causes the sensors to cross, and causes the fetish for feet.

Freud’s Theory

Of course, if it’s sexual, we know Freud has something to say.
Freud believed that people are attracted to feet because the foot is sort of shaped like a penis.
He also believes that smell has a large part to play in it, but exactly what that part was isn’t clear.

Childhood Imprints

One of the broader theories is that something happens during childhood which causes the person to develop a foot fetish.
However, the specific reasons vary greatly.

Socialisation

Another reason could be because of society.
This theory states that fetishes develop based on how society sexualises certain aspects of people.
So, in a society where women dress from head to toe, something like a foot is seen as the most “daring” aspect, as it isn't completely covered. 

Cultural Factors

The idea here is that communities are either sex-positive or sex-negative.
Sex-positive communities see sex as a fun activity, while sex-negative communities only see it as a way to procreate.
People in sex-positive communities are more likely to experiment, which leads to the development of fetishes.

Humiliation

Feet are often considered to be “below” people, which would mean that anybody paying any mind to (or getting aroused by) feet is going to be below that as well.
This allows submissive people the chance to have their status be dropped in a roleplay scenario, as they’re under the foot of somebody.

Adornment

Many people who have a fetish for feet also have a fetish for shoes, socks, and foot jewellery as well. 

How Common Is The Fetish For Feet?

The majority of fetishes are based around body parts, and 47% of that group has a fetish for feet.
That means that it’s one of the more mainstream kinks out there.

How Do I Bring Up My Foot Fetish To My Partner?

Just like introducing other things into the bedroom, bringing up a kink can be daunting.
But it doesn’t have to be.
By talking openly, and keeping an open mind yourself, you’ll quickly find that talking about your love for feet isn’t as scary as you thought it would be.
Here’s an extra little clever tip:
One of the highlights of podophilia (as it’s officially called) is that it can partner with other kinks really easily.
For example, if you’re into BDSM, you might enjoy adding tickle torture in as well.
This may make it easier to find a way to integrate your kink in a way that makes it straightforward, and removes any awkwardness.

Some Things To Try

If you’re going ahead with bringing the fetish in for some play, here are a few things you could try:

• Foot massages
• Tickling
• Pedicures
• Dress your feet up
• Dress your feet down
• Try footjobs
• Use your feet during foreplay

Conclusion

Despite their representation in shows and films, foot fetishes aren’t a weird kink.
In fact, it’s incredibly common, and you shouldn’t ever feel bad for being turned on by something that’s perfectly normal.
Remember that part of the fun of exploring a kink is the learning process.
As long as you put your best foot forward, you’ll definitely have a lot of fun!