Since 1945, Paraboot has been manufacturing the iconic Michael derby in its workshops at the foot of the French Alps.
A heritage forged by Richard-Pontvert
Founded in 1908 by Richard Pontvert, in 2025 Paraboot celebrates 117 years of history, innovation and passion. Based in Saint-Jean-de-Moirans, Isère, it perpetuates the art of sewn footwear and Made in France, with exceptional materials and an unfailing commitment to quality and authenticity.
It was in 1945, in a post-war context where the essential thing was to create objects capable of lasting, that the company launched an unprecedented model: the Michael derby.
Designed for professionals working on their feet – farmers, lumberjacks, laborers – this shoe quickly made a name for itself for its robustness, comfort and assertive style. A singular design, with a rounded last, thick beading and scalloped welt, makes this model instantly recognizable.
Adopted over the decades by generations and communities the world over, today it’s more than a shoe: it’s a living heritage.
Thanks to Norwegian or Goodyear stitching, it is fully resoleable, and has always embodied Paraboot’s signature durability and responsibility.
Celebrating 80 years of history and expertise
Michael has never been so relevant. For several years now, it has enjoyed renewed success in all markets. Today, it’s an unmissable classic, a wardrobe essential that transcends genres and trends.
In 2025, Paraboot reaffirms the singularity of its style and the legitimacy of its creation. At a time when fashion is looking for meaning, Michael proves that certain objects – thought through with care, made to last – can remain inimitable.
8 decades, 8 limited editions
Created with the support of Basile Lapray, Paraboot is proud to present 8 limited editions of the Michael. The cornerstone of this celebration, these limited editions correspond to the 8 decades that this iconic model has been around.
An opportunity to remind the fashion world that Paraboot is the undisputed owner of this iconic shoe, having made the Michael decades before its competitors.
These designs, drawn from the company’s archives and enriched with details specific to each era, illustrate Michael’s ability to cross styles and trends while remaining true to its identity.
1950 – RAW: gringo nubuck and canvas, reflecting a raw, functional era.
1960 – MODS B&W: smooth black and white leather, a tribute to the elegant contrasts of the Sixties.
1970 – HAIRY MULE: cowhair and smooth leather, a nod to bohemian and natural inspirations.
1980 – POST PUNK: black perforated version, marked by the rebellious energy of the decade.
1990 – DREAM TEAM: padded white leather, reminiscent of sporty, minimalist codes.
2000 – Y2K RUNNING: velvet and grey mesh, a fusion of outdoor and urban influences.
2010 – MINI MAXI: XXL finishes and black gloss, a play on volume and bold fashion.
2020 – MIX CODES: beige velvet and honey leather, the embodiment of hybridization and the blending of genres.
Each edition comes with exclusive additional features: a specific label for each decade, a dedicated pouch and an anniversary label.
True collector’s items, these pairs pay tribute to Michael’s history while confirming his status as a contemporary icon.
Find them exclusively and for a limited time in selected boutiques around the world (NYC, Brighton, Berlin, Paris, Copenhagen, Milan, Seoul and Osaka, Nagoya , Tokyo) and on our Paraboot website.
