Why is elika barefoot in prince of Persia?

Answer 1

Elika running around in her barefeet provides her a functional purpose. She probably couldn't run, jump, climb walls, and fight as well as her mysterious wise cracking sword weilding partner in high heels or pumps, or other footwear that would be appropriate for royalty. Which makes a lot of sense. Do you see gymnastics performed while wearing, say, cowboy boots, flip flops, or even running shoes?

*spoiler warning* (do not read further unless you've already played thru the game)

As part of the game's story, she died, and the dead don't really have a need of shoes. Her attire was presumably the outfit she was intended to be laid to rest in.