Living Simply in Canada: The Only 3 Shoes I Really Need

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When I first moved to Canada, I never imagined that just three pairs of shoes would become part of nearly every story in my daily life. Whether I’m fishing by the shore, catching sunsets at the beach, hiking rugged trails, tending my garden, or heading off to work, I always find myself reaching for one of these: my Crocs, my Salomon Alphacross GTX 5, or my Chuck Taylor High Leather.

They may look different, but together they balance comfort, reliability, and style—perfect for every season and every step of my Canadian life.

Crocs: Everyday Comfort & Simplicity

Hiking Trails in Crocs

You’d think hiking in Crocs sounds impossible, but trust me, they’ve carried me farther than I expected. On light summer hikes when I didn’t want heavy boots, Crocs gave me comfort, breathability, and a surprisingly sturdy grip.

Beach Days, Fishing & Sunsets

Crocs truly shine near the water. I wear them when I go fishing along the shore, walking across rocks or docks with ease. They’re perfect for long evenings at the beach, where I can slip them off to feel the sand, then slide them back on as the sun sets over the ocean. Quick-drying and water-friendly, they’ve been my most reliable companion for those peaceful moments by the sea.

Gardening with Crocs

In my small Canadian garden, Crocs are my mud-proof best friend. They slip on easily, wash off in seconds, and keep me moving between the house and garden without fuss.

Everyday Errands and Shopping

Running errands is always easier in Crocs—slip them on and go. From grocery shopping to market strolls, they’ve been my most practical daily shoes.

⚠️ One downside: If you wear socks with Crocs on rainy days, your feet will get wet. They’re breathable but not sealed—so for those wet or snowy days, I switch to my Salomon or Chuck Taylors.

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Salomon Alphacross GTX 5: Rugged & Reliable

While Crocs keep life light and easy, my Salomon Alphacross 5 hiking shoes is my go-to for serious hikes, casual workdays, and unpredictable Canadian weather.

Hiking Adventures

The Alphacross 5 has excellent grip, which keeps me steady on rocky trails, muddy paths, and even slippery snow patches. The waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps my feet dry where Crocs can’t.

Winter Wear

I’ve also worn my Salomons during Canadian winters. Paired with warm socks, they’ve held up well against snow and slush, keeping my feet dry and steady when sidewalks and trails turned icy. While they’re not as insulated as heavy-duty winter boots, they’re dependable enough for most winter days—especially when I want something lighter and more flexible.

Iceberg Watching & Coastal Walks

One of my favorite memories in my Salomons is walking along the rugged Newfoundland coastline, watching icebergs drift silently across the horizon. The roads can be slippery with salt spray and the trails are uneven with rocks, but these shoes gave me the grip and comfort I needed to take in those unforgettable views.

At Work & On the Go

I also wear them to work because they balance comfort and performance. They’re lightweight enough for daily wear but sturdy enough to handle long days on my feet.

Everyday Versatility

From summer hikes to snowy sidewalks, coastal trails to iceberg watching, the Alphacross has become my all-terrain shoe.

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Chuck Taylor High Leather: Classic Style & Daily Comfort

And then there are my Chuck Taylor High Leather shoes—simple, timeless, and practical for daily life.

Workdays Made Easy

They’re my go-to for work, offering a balance of comfort and clean style. The leather makes them more durable than canvas, which means I don’t worry as much about scuffs or light rain when I’m walking to and from the office.

City Walks & Coffee Shop Days

On slower days, I love wearing my Chucks for wandering downtown streets or stopping at cozy coffee shops. They’re comfortable enough for long walks yet stylish enough that I don’t feel underdressed if I meet a friend or run into someone I know.

Casual Evenings

For casual nights out—whether it’s grabbing dinner, strolling around the city, or just enjoying a relaxed evening—the Chuck Taylor High Leather always feels like the right choice. Unlike my rugged Salomons or laid-back Crocs, they add just enough personality and style while still being reliable.

Classic Everyday Comfort

For daily living, they’ve proven just as dependable as my Crocs and Salomons. Easy to pair with anything, comfortable for walking, and sturdy enough to wear year-round.

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Final Reflection: More Than Just Shoes

Looking back, I realize these three pairs of shoes have become more than just footwear. They’re part of how I live my life in Canada. Crocs remind me of simple joys—fishing, gardening, catching sunsets by the beach. Salomon Alphacross 5 carry me through adventures—winter walks, rugged hikes, and unforgettable moments like watching icebergs along the coast. And my Chuck Taylor High Leather brings balance—adding comfort and a touch of style to my workdays, city walks, and cozy evenings.

Together, they’ve walked with me through every season and every step of my Canadian story.