Since the 13th century, the genuine espadrille has been meticulously crafted in the quaint villages of northern Spain and southern France. The time-honored art of creating authentic espadrilles has dwindled with the rise of globalization. The espadrilles sold in our store hail from one of the few remaining Spanish villages where the espadrilles are meticulously made, preserving the age-old tradition.
How are the espadrilles made?
To prepare the materials needed to make the soles, vintage spinning machines dating back to the 1930s are used. Strands of recycled fibers are intertwined and thread to form sturdy braids which are renowned for their durability. These materials grace the feet of many throughout the region, providing the perfect balance between strength for shoe soles and comfort for wearers.
Continuing the process of making the soles, braided ropes are curled into the typical hourglass shape of espadrille soles using the hand-operated turntables. Seated at the alpargateros' benches, the soles are stitched together using sisal thread and oversized needles to prevent unraveling.
To complete the base of the espadrilles, natural rubber introduced in the 1940s is used which undergoes heat pressing in metal molds, where the vulcanized material is then melted onto the rope soles, all without the use of any glue or chemicals.
At the same time, the cotton canvas is produced along the Mediterranean coast of Spain, renowned for the quality and unique beauty of its traditional weaving. This intricate process entails hundreds of dyed colorful threads being woven together on looms, resulting in exquisitely designed canvases tailored specifically for crafting the uppers of the espadrilles.
Depending on whether the master tailor is working with cotton, leather, or silk, they will select different cutters and adjust their press according to the material and desired size. This process represents a fundamental skill in the production of traditional espadrilles.
In the final and most crucial stage, the true magic unfolds through the skilled hands of the village's seamstresses. This tradition, passed down from mothers to daughters across generations, involves adeptly sewing the fabric onto the rope soles with precise stitches and concluding with an embroidery at the front of the shoes.
Where can I get a pair of espadrilles?
We sell all types of models and colors of espadrilles in our in person store in Montreal. It would be a pleasure to have you.
