When the mercury rises and the days get longer, we all share the desire to change our wardrobe for lighter, more summery outfits. Linen shirts, chinos… What about shoes? Depending on the look you’re going for, we recommend different styles of men’s summer footwear.

Paraboot, shoemaker since 1908

The Paraboot brand, whose manufacturing workshops are located at the foot of the Alps in Isère, was founded in 1908. Initially specialising in utility footwear for local farmers, the company expanded over the years to offer footwear that met everyday needs.

Shortly after the Second World War, during the 30 glorious years, the range expanded. The following styles became more widely available :

Derbies and richelieus

Low shoes, also known as dress shoes, can be built like a derby or a richelieu. This is Paraboot’s trademark.

With Goodyear or Norwegian stitching, the leather upper is bonded to the natural rubber sole for comfort and elegance. The Michael, Chambord and Avignon models are the iconic low shoes from the brand with the green label.

Boots

High boots, also known as ankle boots, cover the ankle. Paraboot’s flagship ankle boots are inspired by the mountain boots and boots designed for the Galibier brand at the time.

Their hiking boot look has recently been updated to suit Parisian pavements, as shown by the Avoriaz and Yosemite models.

Loafers

A trend that originated on the other side of the Atlantic in the 20th century, leather loafers have conquered Europe for their modern style.

At Paraboot, it’s the timeless Reims model that is one of the brand’s legends.

Sandals

Now worn in summer and winter, sometimes with socks, sandals are a popular choice for men. Paraboot pioneered the style by designing a walking shoe for the Carthusian monks (whose monastery is located not far from the factory).

Called Pacific, this sandal is now available to the general public.

Whatever the style, the most important factor when selecting shoes is the comfort they offer.

Comfort is the most important criterion when choosing footwear

While women have always preferred light, open shoes for sunny summer days, men have long worn closed shoes for all seasons.

But for several years now, fashion has been evolving for greater comfort. Such is the case of the boat shoe, a moccasin initially designed for sailors before conquering a wider clientele. At Paraboot, the Barth men’s boat shoe is available each season in a wide variety of materials and colours.

More broadly, comfort is the result of first-rate raw materials and high-quality assembly techniques.

Top quality leather

If you don’t choose canvas, the choice of leather is crucial to the lifespan of a shoe.

Paraboot’s leathers come from top-of-the-range tanneries in France and Europe, using hides from cattle and deer born and bred in Western Europe.

On summer models, the leather is offered more on the flesh side, i.e. in velvet. Unlined, it offers unequalled suppleness when walking.

For several years now, Paraboot has also been offering men’s summer shoes in smooth, vegetable-tanned leather.

Unlike traditional leathers, vegetable tanning is made from organic raw materials, avoiding the use of chromium (a colour-fixing agent)… Ideal for wearing barefoot leather shoes !

Top-of-the-range manufacture

Whether it’s a boat moccasin, sandal or sneaker, the lightness and comfort of these shoes lies in their construction. Rather than using Goodyear or Norwegian stitching, shoemakers prefer welded or Blake stitching.

This technique, inspired by the assembly of American moccasins, has been used by Paraboot since the late 1960s. The result is a shoe that is flexible, comfortable and durable.

As this know-how no longer exists in France, Paraboot entrusts the manufacture of its Blake stitched or welted shoe collection to its long-standing Spanish and Portuguese partners, a guarantee of reliability and quality.

In response to growing demand, the range of men’s shoes has expanded over the years.

The success of summer footwear for men

Men’s fashion is no slouch when it comes to shoes! Today’s trend is for comfortable men’s summer shoes with a casual look. Here’s our advice on how to choose the right pair of shoes to wear all summer long.

Consider use

When choosing your summer shoes, think about the occasion you’ll be wearing them for. Casual sneakers can be ideal for a casual outing, while Paraboot boat shoes can add a touch of elegance to a semi-formal outfit.

Choose materials suitable for bare feet

Given the summer temperatures, it’s essential to choose footwear made from leathers that feel pleasant when in direct contact with the skin. This will limit the discomfort caused by the moisture released when walking.

Put comfort first

Paraboot ensures optimum comfort thanks to the quality of its craftsmanship. Make sure you choose a pair in velvet or supple leather, designed with Blake stitching or welting. So whether it’s a boat shoe, moccasin, sandal or sneaker…

Paraboot offers a range of men’s summer shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. Each pair is carefully designed to offer the perfect balance between style and comfort. Discover our men’s summer range now.