Paraboot truly raises the bar with its expertise in crafting hand-stitched leather-soled shoes. Its artisanal techniques ensure Paraboot shoes combine durability, elegance, tradition and modernity.

The origins of leather soles

Leather-soled shoes have been highly prized for centuries due to their sturdiness and flexibility. Traditionally, shoe soles were made from leather. The oldest shoe ever discovered, dating back approximately 5,500 years, was already made of leather.

The earliest soles were also made from this material. Today, bovine hides are most commonly used, as their durability ensures they can withstand the wear and tear that soles are subjected to.

The difference between leather soles and rubber soles

Leather and rubber soles differ significantly in terms of materials and performance.

Often produced using Blake stitching, leather soles are recommended for dress shoes. They are highly regarded for their refined style. Additionally, their high level of breathability helps regulate moisture and maintains a comfortable feel inside the shoe.

They also offer excellent support for the arch of the foot, essential for ensuring long-lasting comfort whilst walking.

In contrast, rubber soles are mostly made from synthetic or natural rubber materials. Their durability and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces, makes them a popular choice.

There are also soles made from a blend of leather and rubber, combining the refined appearance of leather soles with the comfort of rubber soles.

Paraboot offers several styles derived from the iconic Michael and Avignon models.

The origins of leather soles

The leather sole can trace its origins back to Antiquity, when the first shoes were handcrafted by artisans using the natural materials available to them.

Obtained from tanned animal hides, leather was mostly used due to its flexibility and ability to provide effective protection against the elements.

The Romans, in particular, perfected the art of leather shoemaking by introducing advanced tanning techniques and sophisticated designs.

With the advent of the industrial revolution in the 19th century, leather shoe production became mechanised, making these products more accessible whilst maintaining high standards of quality.

Over the years, the leather sole has remained a symbol of quality and elegance, preserving an age-old craftsman tradition.

Paraboot and men’s leather-soled shoes

Leather-soled shoes embody timeless elegance and skilled craftsmanship. Renowned for its expertise and meticulous attention to detail, Paraboot offers a range of leather-soled shoes. These are ideal for corporate wear.

Key models include the Montaigne as part of the Oxford shoe range, and the Adonis in a loafer style.

Each pair of Paraboot leather-soled shoes offers a refined appearance as well as unrivalled comfort. This reflects the brand’s exceptional expertise. Choosing Paraboot footwear means choosing French excellence.

Leather soles require regular cleaning after each use. Remove dust from the leather using a polishing brush. Then apply an even coating of cleaning cream to the shoe, using a soft cloth. Leave for a few minutes before polishing the leather.

After wet weather, allow your shoes to dry on their side rather than flat.

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.

What style looks best with leather-soled shoes?

Leather-soled shoes are versatile and lend themselves to a range of different occasions for customers.

For corporate wear or formal events, styles such as Derby shoes or even Oxford shoes with polished leather soles are the ideal choice.

These styles pair perfectly with corporate wear and are ideal as formal footwear, creating an elegant and refined look.

For less formal situations, such as outings into town or informal meetings, Paraboot loafers with leather soles strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.

These shoes combine the elegance of leather soles with a more casual touch, making them ideal for informal occasions whilst still offering the benefits of leather in terms of comfort.