You do know, 'gear, that the whole shoe-fetish thing is basically tied to Transvestism, a sexualization of an object, usually one associated with female sexual power. The surrender of the male sexual power/Topping energy to the feminine, especially the humiliation aspects of foot-worship (remember BDM's "shrimping" fixation...kinda wonder if LG keeps him on a leash when he does it or not). I'd kinda watch that whole power thing yourself, there's nothing more submissive or pathetic that some shoe freak laying at a woman's feet drooling on her toes. It's probably a bit counter to your usual public persona, tough guy.
As far as defense mechanisms, believe me, all of BDSM, top, bottom, Dom, sub, it's all a ritualized defense mechanisms. People's love-lives are complex. Just because I occasionally show some sensitivity doesn't decrease my masculinity, IMHO. You'll notice it doesn't seem to put the women here off (or most other places for that matter) either. Jealousy should be beneath you.
As far as my ballerina fixation, see FBI's post. If you don't fall in love with 'em, dancers are about as much fun in bed as you're going to find. Just kick them out of the door when you are done with 'em (and change your cell phone number).