Hi there
Earlier this month when I went to board my mom on the plane, I too was asked to take my shoes off and I was only seeing her off for handicap reasons, I felt really weird but hey, it is something we have to do, but it was so funny my leather tevas were all soaking wet from the tialend of the hurricane, the parking lot was like a pool and the big plus they stunk, so I said "sure, here's my sandals if you can handle the stink", even their stone faces started to laugh. Poor mom, just got these shoes for diabetics, they took the 2 inner soles out and inspected them, what an ordeal to get them back on her feet
There is more to this story but too long, and it would get off the topic here. But I felt weird too, almost like being taken away to some interrogation or something.
Take care,
"darkeyes"

PS It is great to see you again, got to go give mom her insulin, bye

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON