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.
Where does the name of the Michael model come from?
The name of the Michael model comes from Michel Richard the current president of the Richard Pontvert company, born in 1945 and grandson of founder Rémy Richard. It was the end of World War II, and it was fashionable to give things American-sounding names. Consequently, Michel became Michael or Mikael, and the legend was born…
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.
How many steps does it take to make a Michael shoe?
No fewer than 150 manual operations are still required to manufacture a pair of Michael shoes. From the vulcanization of the rubber sole and the cutting of the leather to the assembly of parts, lasting of the upper, edge trimming, and final polishing, every one of these steps ensures the exceptional quality of your Paraboot shoes.
Celebrating 80 years of history and expertise
The Michael has never been more relevant. For several years, it has enjoyed renewed success across all markets. Today, it stands as an essential classic a wardrobe staple that transcends both gender and trends.
How many versions of the Michael are there ?
Paraboot has created over 500 variations of the iconic Michael: whether in different materials such as smooth leather, suede, nubuck, patent leather, and more or in various colors like yellow, green, black, and blue, or even through collaborations with other brands, there is something for everyone!
In 2025, Paraboot reaffirms the distinctiveness of its style and the authenticity of its craftsmanship. At a time when fashion is seeking meaning, the Michael model proves that certain objects thoughtfully designed and built 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.
Which luxury house collaborated on the Michael?
In 1984, at the initiative of the luxury house Hermès, Paraboot and Hermès combined their exceptional craftsmanship to create an original version of the Michael featuring, among other details, an easily recognizable side embroidery depicting an “H” intertwined with two fish.
