Meet the Winner: A Loyal Customer’s Experience with Minimalist Shoes

When it comes to footwear, comfort and health are top of mind for every shopper. But what happens when traditional shoes don't deliver? In this special feature, we met Peggy Gold, winner of our customer service survey and minimalist shoe enthusiast.

Below, Peggy shares her personal experiences and advice for anyone considering switching to minimalist shoes. Read on to find out how this simple change transformed her daily life!

First of all, congratulations on winning our minimalist shoe survey contest! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Thank you! I am 63, retired, and I live in Calgary. Art is my passion in retirement, and I love painting in watercolor and gouache (peggygoldart.ca). I also have a greyhound, and I need my minimalist shoes to keep my feet comfy and healthy so we both can have our daily walkies.

What made you interested in minimalist shoes in the first place?

I’ve always looked for the flattest, widest shoes I could find. I wore minimalist shoes about 15 years ago, but the company I bought them from stopped selling them in Canada, so I moved on. I wore sneaker-type Keens quite a bit, but about a year ago, I decided to try Hokas. I guess mainly because they came in wide sizing and seemed highly recommended.

However, after six months in Hokas, I had hurt my foot, calf, knee, and back. Not being able to feel the ground at all had seriously affected my gait. So I tossed the Hokas and, after doing some research, decided to try minimalist shoes again. I was excited to find that the brand selection had grown, and I could order from Canada again!

How has your experience been since switching to minimalist shoes?

It’s been great! I’ve noticed a big improvement in my comfort and overall foot health.

What do you like most about minimalist shoes?

The comfort. And I can get them to fit! I have large feet for a woman (size 10.5-11 wide), and since many minimalist shoes are unisex (and wide), I now have much more selection than ever before.

What do you like the least about minimalist shoes?

Some of them really do look like “clown shoes." I bought a pair of Shapens to wear with a dress, but I really don’t like how they look.

Also, minimalist shoe soles don’t always have enough padding for me, so I’ve bought insoles to help with that. I also haven’t found warm enough boots, although that might just be a personal issue.

How did you find out about our store?

I wish I remembered for sure, but I think it was from Anya’s Reviews.

What words would you give to someone who is thinking about trying barefoot shoes?

Do it! But start slow. And do foot and leg exercises, especially if you’re older or have foot issues.

What was your biggest concern before trying minimalist shoes, and how did that change after wearing them?

I wasn’t really concerned because I was already injured from wearing Hokas. I was desperate and figured minimalist shoes couldn’t make things any worse. And I think I intuitively knew that minimalist shoes were the path to my recovery.

Do you use minimalist shoes for specific activities, like running, hiking, or casual wear?

I wear them all the time. Once I start wearing minimalist shoes, I can’t stand wearing anything else.

Although, if I were a runner, I think I might need more cushioning.

How do minimalist shoes compare to traditional shoes in terms of comfort and performance?

There is no comparison. Traditional shoes hurt. Minimalist shoes don’t.

What features do you look for when choosing a minimalist shoe?

Be Lenka Snowfox in black, one of Peggy's choices.

I look for:

• Width

• Shape

• Looks

I know they will be comfortable, so that removes the biggest concern I always had when shoe shopping.

Have you noticed any changes in your overall foot health or posture since switching to minimalist shoes?

Absolutely! Eight months ago, my foot, calves, and knee hurt. Now, with exercises and only wearing minimalist shoes, most of that pain is gone.

What was your first impression when you tried on your first pair of minimalist shoes?

They were wide enough! My toes weren’t squished! They were comfy! I could actually feel the ground, so I could start walking properly again.

How has wearing minimalist shoes impacted your daily routine or lifestyle?

Not much, other than feeling like it’s healthier for my body.

Did you experience any adjustment period when transitioning to minimalist shoes? If so, how did you manage it?

Yes, and it wasn’t immediate.

I hurt my other foot after several months in minimalist shoes, probably from walking too far, too fast. I’ve been using Correct Toes and metatarsal pads to help with that. I also use Northsole insoles – I like flat shoes and some ground feel, but I still need a bit of padding too.

Would you recommend our store to friends or family? If so, why?

Absolutely! You are Canadian (which is very important to me), and you have a great selection of shoes.

I’ve never needed your customer service, but I’m sure it would be wonderful. I love supporting small Canadian businesses, and I frequently recommend your store in barefoot Facebook groups when Canadians ask where to buy minimalist shoes.