115 years of experience and expertise to produce unique pairs of shoes every day, all made in France.

A history of men’s shoes

The story of Paraboot men’s footwear began in Izeaux, at the foot of the Alps. It dates right back to the late 19th century, when Rémy-Alexis Richard founded the company and embarked on the remarkable journey of producing leather shoes.

Over time, the Paraboot brand has built up a reputation for its craftsman expertise (Norwegian and Goodyear stitching), its capacity for innovation (notched rubber soles), and its work with high-quality leathers.

Throughout the decades, Paraboot has made its name on the men’s footwear market by adapting to fashion trends whilst preserving its heritage of durable, sturdy shoes.

The brand’s identity is built on a desire to produce practical and comfortable shoes for its customers.

The models are inspired by the male professions of the time (workers, farmers and craftsmen, and later architects, doctors and lawyers).

Paraboot introduced its emblematic Michael model in the 1950s, which went on to become an icon in men’s footwear.

The brand diversified into mountaineering footwear (through the Galibier brand) and smarter models such as loafers and men’s deck shoes.

Paraboot later began to export its expertise internationally, becoming a globally recognised brand.

It has succeeded in retaining its authenticity whilst still being at the forefront of men’s fashion. The brand is now a classic name in men’s footwear. Paraboot continues to design and manufacture its men’s footwear in France with pride.

Footwear models for men

Over the years, Paraboot has drawn on its expertise to create different types of men’s shoes. From Derby shoes to Oxford shoes, ankle boots, loafers, deck shoes, sandals and trainers, the brand offers a wide range of models.

The Derby shoe, an everyday shoe

Here at Paraboot, we offer a varied selection of Derby shoes. From the iconic Michael to the Chambord or Avignon, there’s something for everyone. Featuring a distinctive V-shaped opening on the quarters, a Derby shoe is a versatile model that lends itself to formal or casual occasions.

Available in several varieties of leather and various finishes, Paraboot Derby shoes are the go-to design for fans of comfortable and stylish footwear.

Oxford shoes, smart shoes for any occasion

Paraboot also offers a range of men’s Oxford shoes for any occasion. The classic, elegant lines of Oxford shoes make them truly distinctive. Featuring a lace-up fastening and a slim toe, they offer a precise fit and make the perfect formal shoes.

Ankle boots for winter

With or without laces, with rubber or leather soles, we offer a wide range of ankle boots. Inspired by footwear for mountain sports (Avoriaz, Yosemite, Montana and Clusaz models) or equestrian sports (Élevage and Manège models), our rubber-soled ankle boots are fully waterproof for long winter days.

For an urban yet stylish look, other models such as the Neuilly, Chamfort and Beaumont designs will appeal to male customers.

Paraboot takes its inspiration from its customers’ professions to design smart, comfortable and sturdy ankle boots using stitching techniques that enable the models to be repaired.

The Paraboot loafer

Made from premium leathers, the loafers such as the Adonis, Reims and Cabrio are suitable for any style.

With understated lines, immaculate details or elegant topstitching, loafers are suitable for casual as well as formal occasions.

Men’s trainers made by a shoemaker

Originally made from leather for a smart style, Paraboot trainers now come in a variety of shapes and materials to make them more supple, lightweight and breathable.

Once again, Paraboot’s craftsmanship shines through, offering models made with premium leathers, soles containing 25% recycled materials, and carefully designed fits inspired by the brand’s iconic models.

Their clean lines and attention to detail mean that these versatile shoes suitable for a variety of outfits. The Paraboot men’s trainer perfectly blends modern aesthetics with craftsman expertise.

The classic deck shoe

Inspired by American Indian moccasins, the deck shoe is traditionally constructed using Blake stitching (also known as sewn through).

Comprising a supple, grooved sole, a low heel and leather treated to withstand saltwater, these hand-stitched shoes were initially designed by the Sperry brand for kitting out sailors.

Paraboot added this style of shoe to its collection during the Seventies, when the French Navy commissioned the brand to kit out its submariners. The technical sole of these deck shoes means that they rapidly wick away water to avoid slipping.

Now available in several colours and models (Barth, Malo) they are comfortable and stylish with a sportswear feel.

Paraboot puts deck shoes in the spotlight with its Barth model and offers the ultimate “must-have” for men’s summer wardrobes.

Men’s sandals

Designed for men, Paraboot sandals convey a bold style sought after by many customers worldwide. These unique men’s summer shoes boast a distinctive strong identity inspired by history (a model initially designed for Carthusian monks), whilst maintaining the same high standards of raw materials and expertise.

The brand offers the following models of men’s iconic sandals : Pacific and Ferret, both available in various leather shades.

Men’s leather footwear for comfort and versatile styling

Here at Paraboot, the art of shoemaking also reflects the personalities of our customers. That’s why the brand is constantly offering models in various styles and ranges. As a result, everyone can find Paraboot footwear to match their style and lifestyle.

What’s more, we carefully design each pair of Paraboot shoes with particular emphasis on the well-being of the feet.

Through the use of high-quality materials, padded insoles and ergonomic shapes, Paraboot shoes ensure a comfortable fit throughout the day. Men’s shoes in larger sizes are also offered in all the collections, ensuring Paraboot caters for everyone.

Whether they are for a long day at work or a casual stroll around town, you can count on your Paraboot shoes to provide support and comfort.

Iconic and classic shoes

Designing and producing comfortable, timeless and classic shoes lies at the heart of the Paraboot collections. The classic models boast a timeless design, simple, comfortable shapes and subtle details.

Hand-made using premium leathers, these models transcend trends and generations whilst undeniably retaining the distinctive Paraboot hallmark.

For men, the classic Paraboot models would be the Michael, Chambord, Avignon and Barth.

Smart shoes

Paraboot is renowned for its expertise in creating smart shoes. The French brand combines traditional craftsmanship with an elegant design to produce shoes that embody timeless, smart styling in any man’s wardrobe.

Paraboot smart shoes are a fusion of comfort and sophistication. This makes them a natural choice for formal and corporate occasions.

Whether you’re looking for leather loafers with an immaculate finish, classic lace-up shoes or stylish ankle boots, Paraboot offers a diverse range of smart footwear to suit a variety of styles and outfits.

Dress shoes and corporate styling

Paraboot aims to offer shoes for every occasion. That’s why, over the years, the brand has also developed dress shoes which are easy to wear at the office as well as for more formal occasions.

Smart, clean lines combined with premium leathers for refined styling. The Schubert, Andersen, Rousseau, Tournier and Beaumont models are part of this line.

Formal shoes for special events and formal occasions

Paraboot’s formal shoes boast a more elegant and refined look. Made from exceptional quality leathers with extreme attention to detail, they are perfect for special events and formal occasions.

Whether you’re attending a wedding, gala dinner or any other important occasion, our formal designs strike the perfect balance between classic styling and a subtly modern look.

That’s why some of our models feature a leather sole and immaculate details for a smarter finish. Their clean lines and timeless design make them a natural choice for men seeking a refined look. The Adonis, Columbia and Montaigne models are perfect examples.

Constantly reinventing trend-led men’s shoes

For customers seeking more unusual colours and styles, Paraboot offers specific shapes and models in line with current trends. We are proud to offer :

New styles : new footwear designs to cater for our customers’ needs and align with fashion trends.

Updated classics : iconic models, reworked in new materials, colours and leathers to set the tone for the season.

Collaborations : Each year, Paraboot joins forces with key names in art and fashion to co-create unique styles of shoes.

Choosing your Paraboot shoes

Choosing the right Paraboot shoe depends on various factors, including personal style, intended use, comfort and individual preferences.

Paraboot offers footwear in an extensive choice of models and styles. Here are a few pointers to help our customers choose from the various collections :

Establish their intended use : Think about the occasions when you intend to wear the shoes. Paraboot offers a wide range of styles, from smart shoes to casual loafers and ankle boots. Make sure the style suits your needs and tastes.

Choose the material : Paraboot uses different types of leathers, such as smooth, grained and nubuck. Smooth leather is elegant and formal, whilst grained leather is more hardwearing. Nubuck has a soft texture similar to suede.

Select the right size : Make sure you know your exact shoe size. Paraboot shoes are generally available in a range of French and European sizes. That’s why it’s worth checking a conversion chart to establish your shoe size. Our sales assistants will be happy to advise you, either online or in store.

Comfort : Always try on your shoes and walk around a little to assess how comfortable they feel. Although Paraboot is renowned for its high levels of comfort, it’s still important to make sure you choose the right size and shape for your feet.

Personal style : Choose the right style for you. Paraboot offers a variety of designs, from timeless classics to more contemporary models. Go for the one that best suits your style.

Colour : Consider the colour of your shoes, depending on your wardrobe. Classic colours such as black, brown and beige are versatile and go with everything, whilst bolder colours can add an unusual twist to your outfits.

Considering these factors will help you choose the right Paraboot shoes to suit your needs and personal style.

Remember that quality and comfort are key elements of the brand, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for durable and stylish shoes.

Looking after your leather shoes

Regularly caring for your Paraboot leather shoes can help extend their lifespan as well as keep them looking smart.

Regular cleaning

You need to clean the leather and remove any build-up of dirt (residual shoe polish, dust, etc.) to clear the pores of the leather. We recommend brushing the leather using a scraper brush, then wipe with a slightly damp sponge and leave to dry.

Next rub all the leather parts on the shoe (upper, welt and leather sole edge) with leather cleansing cream or renovating cream to remove any previous layers of shoe polish.

Polishing

Regularly polishing your leather shoes will make their shine last longer. Use shoe polish or shoe cream in an appropriate colour to add shine to your shoes. Choose a high-quality shoe polish that matches the colour of your shoes to restore their original shine.

Use a shoe cleaning brush to polish your shoes after applying the shoe polish. This will add shine to the leather and give your shoes an impeccable look.

Protection from water and stains

To protect your shoes from water and stains, you can use a high-quality waterproofing product. Lightly spray it onto your shoes, then leave to air dry.

If you have worn your Paraboot shoes in the rain, it is important to remember to air-dry them before putting them away.

As a general rule, each time you wear your shoes, put them on a shoe tree to maintain their shape and leave them to air dry at room temperature.

Paraboot, French-made men’s shoes

The Paraboot brand is determined to meet the challenge of producing men’s and women’s shoes on French soil.

Manufacturing shoes in France embodies a steadfast commitment to excellence and tradition.

The workshops in Saint-Jean de Moirans carry out over 150 production steps by hand each day, thereby perpetuating craftsmanship that goes back over 100 years. The Paraboot artisans work with precision to cut, assemble and stitch each piece by hand.

Each pair of shoes is the result of a process that combines manual skill with cutting-edge technology, guaranteeing the perfect fit and exceptional comfort.

The company is proud to have been producing footwear in France for over a century. A genuine determination to retain artisanal manufacturing techniques on French soil in order to safeguard remarkable craftsmanship.

Prioritising durability and quality over quantity is the company’s core philosophy. This is conveyed through meticulous, ethical and environmentally conscious manufacturing. These principles are firmly aligned with the future challenges of production and consumption.

These are the reasons why the Richard-Ponvert company has been awarded Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company){3] status.

By supporting local production and perpetuating craftsman heritage, Paraboot embodies the essence of French-made authenticity and provides its customers with truly exceptional, stylish and durable footwear.

Exceptional raw materials

Paraboot has built up a reputation for using excellent raw materials in manufacturing its shoes. The brand prioritises superior-quality leathers, particularly full-grain leather sourced from renowned tanneries in France and Europe.

We select these leathers for their suppleness, durability and aesthetic appeal.

As well as classic leather, Paraboot also uses other high-quality materials such as nubuck and suede to diversify its range of footwear and cater for its customers’ varying needs.

Keen to offer high-quality men’s shoes, our determination to use premium materials extends as far as the soles. Whether made of rubber or leather, the soles are crafted from the finest natural raw materials and produced in France.

Here at Paraboot, we pay special attention to the soles to ensure comfort and grip whilst providing exceptional durability in both winter and summer. As part of our innovation and development initiative, the brand is continuing to explore new sustainable sources of raw materials.

Over the past few years, new materials have been introduced into the collections ; sometimes thermo-breathable such as the “Ventile” textile, or natural materials such as raffia and wool. Wherever possible, we produce unique models using leather offcuts and recycled rubber.

Manufacturing leather shoes an age-old expertise

Paraboot’s expertise reflects craftsman heritage passed down through the generations. Excellence in craftsmanship and processes at every stage of production to offer our customers unique shoes.

This expertise is based on our mastery of various skills :

Skilful stitching techniques

Each pair of Paraboot shoes is the result of a meticulous manufacturing process using the best stitching techniques for each shape and model.

Norwegian stitching

This iconic stitching technique ensures unrivalled durability, meaning that the shoes stand the test of time. Using this technique, the upper of the shoe is stitched onto the sole using a welt.

Paraboot is proud to be the world leader in Norwegian stitching.

This means that the outer seams are visible, giving the shoes a stylish look whilst ensuring they are fully waterproof and repairable.

Goodyear stitching

As with Norwegian stitching, Paraboot has been skilled in the Goodyear stitching craftsman technique for over 110 years. It is visually more refined than Norwegian stitching, but just as hardwearing. Goodyear stitching connects the welt to the upper and insole.

The welt is stitched on the reverse then turned out, making Goodyear stitching invisible.

Just like Norwegian stitching, this hand-stitching technique guarantees the shoe is fully waterproof and repairable.

Blake stitching

Blake stitching creates a more refined, sophisticated style. The upper of the shoe is attached straight onto the sole using stitching that is sewn through the sole. This means that the stitching is invisible.

The fact that this stitching is invisible results in an elegant finish.

This stitching technique means we can create lightweight, supple shoes which are always popular with fans of Italian shoes or more streamlined styles.

Hand-assembling

Each pair of shoes is meticulously assembled by highly qualified artisans.

From cutting out the leather to stitching, assembling and finishing, each step is performed by hand to guarantee the perfect fit and exceptional comfort.

French-made rubber soles

Working with natural rubber forms a core part of the manufacturing process at Paraboot. The blends and vulcanisation methods used have remained unchanged ever since the company’s inception.

The blends come from France and are vulcanised in the workshop’s presses in Saint-Jean-de-Moirans.

Producing lugged rubber soles means we can offer shoes with superior grip and unrivalled durability.

Leather crafting and hand finishing

Paraboot artisans excel in the art of leather crafting, creating unique finishes and elaborate details. What’s more, each pair is meticulously inspected and hand-finished, guaranteeing a high level of quality.

Paraboot continuously invests in training for its artisans to ensure that skills are passed down and new techniques are learnt.

Paraboot stores

Ever since its first stores were opened in Paris, Nice and Lyon in 1989, Paraboot has developed a worldwide network of stores over the decades, whilst maintaining its commitment to French craftsmanship and high-end shoemaking.

The brand’s stores and concessions

The full range of Paraboot shoes is available in our stores. Customers can choose from a variety of models, from classic shoes to more contemporary designs.

The highly qualified staff are on-hand to provide personalised advice on finding the right pair of shoes for you. As well as shoes, Paraboot stores also offer a selection of shoe care products and accessories to ensure your shoes last longer.

In stores as well as at its head office, the Paraboot teams are always attentive to customer needs and are keen to work with each and every customer to ensure they find the perfect footwear (returns, after-sales service, advice, exchanges and refunds).

Finally, they embody the company’s heritage and tradition in the shoemaking industry, whilst continuing to delight fans of fine footwear all over the world. Check out the list of Paraboot stores in France and Belgium on Paraboot.com

You can find Paraboot concessions in selected department stores such as Le Bon Marché, Les Galeries Lafayette, BHV and Printemps. These concessions carry a selection of models and will provide the same level of personalised advice as in our stores.

Paraboot.com, our online store

Created in 2020, the Paraboot.com website is the official online store for the Paraboot brand. Ideal for fans of leather shoes. It offers a virtual shopping experience that reflects the distinctive elegance and quality found in Paraboot products.

Customers can explore an extensive range of footwear. From classic designs to new styles, for men and women, as well as the brand’s latest collections. With a user-friendly interface, detailed descriptions and filtering options, it’s so easy to find shoes to suit your style online.

Paraboot’s customer service department provides help and guidance for customers making online purchases, as well as assistance with any other questions.

Delivery is free when you spend 100 euros or over, and returns are free making it even more affordable for customers in the euro zone to purchase Paraboot shoes. Finally, as we are constantly striving to offer a service in line with our customers’ expectations, the Richard Pontvert company is now gradually moving towards digitalising its offer.

This means that all customers can enjoy a purchasing experience that matches the quality of the products produced by the brand, both online and in-store.

Paraboot men’s shoes are an excellent choice for customers seeking stylish, sturdy and durable footwear. They are suitable for any occasion, to team with casual or formal outfits. They are made in France in keeping with age-old expertise.

Constantly looking to the future, Paraboot teams are committed to promoting French expertise. They do not hesitate to reinvent the brand’s hallmarks to offer unique models infused with current trends.