I’ve been watching Peerko for a long time, since Mel from BareSteps mentioned them and they first became available on the Happy Little Soles website. It’s hard to get them in America, so HLS is where I ordered mine from (more about that below). The original models are textile-based, including this sparkly model I definitely would have bought if they’d had my size, while these new models are leather, giving them a nice upgraded, classy feel.
Technical specifications:
- Model: Classic – Jeans
- Upper: Nubuck leather
- Insole: Leather (attached)
- Sole: 3.5 mm recyclable thermoplastic rubber
Appearance:
Yep, they are dirty! Because I’ve been wearing them a lot. 🙌
These shoes have a ribbed corduroy look and are a very pretty blue that works with lots of different outfits. They don’t look especially barefoot, despite their generous toe box. They look flat in profile because of the inset interior where your foot sits down in the upper edge of the rubber sole. With a leather interior as well, they feel and look a little more classy than a typical sneaker, but yet are completely comfortable on walks.
This model comes in a lot of different colors and looks, but it depends on the particular site you’re ordering from as to what stock you can access. Here is the main Peerko website’s current listing, but they’ve teased even more than this on their Instagram.
Fit:
The fit well and are comfortable on all instep heights. I am at the upper level on volume and feel zero discomfort and the laces are not stretched too far for a good appearance or fit. They are well designed to hug the instep comfortably but leave your toes completely free. With that said, they are not generous enough for me to wear Correct Toes, though my toes are unrestricted.
Sizing:
The shoes run True To Size (TTS) but have more limited sizing options than some brands, running only between sizes 38 and 43 in the 2.0 Classic models. They are appropriate for all volumes, including high volume like me. Make sure you choose plenty of extra room for your toes. Research says 12 mm is ideal, though different brands will have their own recommendations. I was a 10.5 before minimalist shoes, but that was with zero extra space. Now I’m much happier in 11.5 with unrestricted toes, even though my feet did not do more than a minimal spread after transitioning.
Breaking in:
I found the Peerkos to have no break-in period at all. They were instantly comfortable and produced no pain anywhere on my foot, toes, or achilles tendon. The materials feel smooth and the leather comfortable inside and out. The padded collar at the back is really comfortable and doesn’t rub at all. Over time, they become softer but that is just improvement, not a necessity for your comfort. The start perfect and become even moreso with wear.
How do they feel?
They are fully flexible, as they should be, but are more firm than other barefoot models due to, I would say, the fact they have a leather insole instead of a material like Ortholite. This is something to be aware of if you want a lot of cushion, but I didn’t find it to be a negative as they aren’t hard, just more sturdy and firm feeling, like your own feet being barefoot. If you are low or medium volume you will have room to add an insole for extra cushion, if desired.
The shoes hold their shape well, with no sagging in the toe box despite having a nice and high shape. There is no wrinkling or anything else that can make them look unprofessional in specific settings. They always look exactly like what they are: a sneaker, upgraded.
Cleaning:
Peerko has a downloadable PDF with care instructions, but it’s not in English. The important parts are:
- Impregnate the leather before use and regularly for best results.
- Do not use a washing machine to wash your shoes.
- Do not use a heat source to dry the shoes.
- Brushes and soft clothes for spot cleaning are the ideal methods.
Where to buy:
Peerko is available in different shops, and from their own website, though not to US customers. If you’re in the US like me, there are a few ways to get Peerko shoes.
I ordered my pair from Happy Little Soles, but have also ordered from Young Sole Shoes in their recent pre-order for the newest models.
Ordering from Happy Little Soles is very easy and offers 2 different shipping methods. The DHL Express is a little more expensive, but very fast and reliable. My first order with them a few months ago was stuck in the USPS processing for awhile, so I highly recommend you spend the few extra dollars for the peace of mind. They also have a loyalty points system that is nice on future orders.
Young Sole Shoes is currently offering pre-orders on the newer models but doesn’t yet have any listings for the Classic height 2.0s. Keep a check, though, as they are expected to start carrying them soon. Edited to add: Since posting this review I have become an affiliate of Young Sole Shoes where you can now get 10% off with the affiliate code OWBSHOES.
Each company will have their own return policies. YSS, for example, always offers free returns and exchanges.
If you’re in the Czech Republic or Slovakia you can order directly from Peerko.
Final thoughts:
At over $150 with shipping included, they are up there in the higher levels for sneakers. However, with their glued + stitched methods and quality materials, I think these shoes will last a long time and end up being a great value. They also look great in many different environments and with different clothing, making them very versatile for your needs.
What’s next for Peerko?
Peerko has some really cool models coming out soon: Go and Empire. Check them out on Peerko’s website and you’ll be able to get them on Happy Little Soles and can currently pre-order them on Young Sole Shoes if you’re in the US.
For more current information about Peerko, I have a full Brand Review available here on the blog.
Want more reviews?
Check out All the Barefoot Shoe Reviews for more in-depth looks.