Wood Burning Stove Floor Heat Shield

Hi! My husband and I are buying a wood burning stove (similar in picture) for our small cabin (future build). I have read the installation literature it reads a heat shield should be used on the floor. My problem is they're ugly. I don't want stubbed toes or falls to occure the padding is high. I have given thought to installing a stone patch around the stove. How have y'all delt with this issue? Are the floor heat shields "a must!" On oak floors. What are my options?

Would some hardyboard covered with tile be OK for you? That's what I have under my RMH (plus an additional thick layer or perlite). I think it looks good, and with some trim for the transition stubbed toes would be reduced.

Thank you Ron Helwig for the reply. That was my thought as well tile or stone installed level with the existing oak floor.