Hand-sewn shoes

Hand-sewn shoes

We remain faithful to traditional hand-sewn techniques.

The principle of manufacturing Goodyear and Norwegian welted shoes is based on connecting the shoe's upper with the intermediary sole and the outsole via a strong strap of leather called the welt.

Norwegian construction Goodyear construction Blake construction

Norwegian construction

Goodyear construction

Blake construction

Paraboot is the world leader in Norwegian construction.

Goodyear construction is more refined than Norwegian construction, and just as strong.

Principle

Principle

Principle

The principle is that the upper is fixed to the sole by means of an assembly insole, using a welt and two visible lines of stitches: welt stitching on the upper and lock stitching on the sole. It is also possible not to have a welt, in which case the two lines of stitches are sewn directly onto the leather at the bottom of the upper; this serves as a welt.

The upper is fixed directly to the sole by means of an assembly innersole, a welt and 2 rows of stitches, of which only one is visible: the lock stitching on the sole.

The principle is that the upper is fixed directly to the sole by means of an assembly innersole and stitching that runs through both the assembly innersole and the sole. There is no need for a welt.

Origin

Origin

Origin

Norwegian construction was originally used especially for mountain boots and other intensive uses. Nowadays, it’s also used for more casual shoes.

Goodyear construction is traditionally used for luxury shoes and/or dressed shoes.

Blake construction was originally used to produce lighter, more flexible shoes for summer wear.

Advantages & history

Advantages & history

Advantages & history

Norwegian construction is both strong and flexible, making our shoes sturdy and comfortable. The particular position of the welt makes shoes more waterproof and durable. By the way, this technique has several different names (another is “Rovescia”, “storm welted”) and has nothing to do with Norway!

A more sophisticated line. A construction method that is nevertheless sturdy and waterproof. By the way, Goodyear construction (which was invented in 1865) is named after the inventor of the machine used, Mr Charles Goodyear Jr.

The shoe has a more sophisticated appearance. Especially on a rubber sole, the shoe is particularly flexible. By the way, this type of construction is sometimes referred to as "rapid construction". The shoes are less waterproof and durable than those made with Norwegian or Goodyear constructions. It's a completely different technique, for a different purpose.

Its all about durability

Hand-sewn techniques do not 'rigidify' the upper, they facilitate the adaptation of the shoe to your specific foot.

They favor the circulation of air in order to evacuate perspiration.  They also permit, according to the technique employed, an easy resoling, making possible an extension of life for your shoes. Given the quality of our leathers it is an ecologically responsible choice to buy Goodyear or Norwegian welted shoes.

Hand-sewn shoes

The shoe seen from all angles

Ready, welt, flesh, upper, full grain... the shoe is a much more technical product than it seems.

Would you like to know more about its 'language'?

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