Our Story
After years of watching my patients slide off the treatment table into unsupportive and damaging footwear, I was moved to design Snaffles, an elegant yet biomechanically sound equestrian-themed leather sandal that finally offers stylish women a chance to stop sacrificing their physical health and comfort for fashion’s sake.
As a life-long equestrian, I have a keen awareness of the healing power of horses and their incredible sensitivity. When I first thought about creating a comfortable sandal that could nourish women’s bodies, I was immediately struck by the connection: In horse bridles, the “snaffle” bit is favored over other bridle bits as it provides the gentlest communication between horse and rider. In imagining a truly supportive sandal, I knew that the footbed would need to allow for the sensitive connection with our amazingly complex feet. And, I saw how the snaffle bit itself could be featured as a design motif to give it a classy, equestrian feel. Hence, Snaffles was born!
Dr. Nina Showan-Wakefield, DC
Founder (Design & Sales)
Growing up, I heard countless stories from my mom’s patients. They would stop me at the grocery store, after sports practice, or in the carpool line to rave to me about how my mom had saved them from surgery, or transformed years of pain in one treatment. Now that my mom has retired from her practice, I’m thrilled to be helping her healing gifts reach even more (stylish) women all over the world!
Beyond just serving our customers, we aim to expand our brand’s healing potential by raising awareness for and sharing a portion of our sales with Horses for Mental Health, a 501c3 non-profit “working to expand the role horses play in mental health and personal growth to realize our vision of a world where all mental health needs are met – together.”
In 2018, we lost my brother Elliott to suicide unexpectedly. Since then, Snaffles has become a special place for us to connect as family and find meaning amidst the grief – knowing that we’re able to use our creativity to channel resources to support more people accessing the tremendous healing power of horses.
Tyler
Business Development & Operations