If it's for the GF, and leg epidermal integrity is essential, a plastic platform works OK.
I have pedals (like the ones in the link but cheaper out of the LBS take off box) on my bikes so they grab my shoes a bit better in moist conditions.
The downside is that I inadvertently whack myself in nearly the exact same place on my right shin just after it heals.

I DO have a nice set of them in purple on my frankenbike build and they clash so nicely with the ice-blue frame...

Anyhoo...you should be able to score some plastic platforms or rubber coated commuter platforms at a bike shop in their take off bin.