We've ranked the best Spanish shoe brands that deliver the best quality,
comfort and elegance. Find your perfect pair today!
The Best Spanish Shoes Brands
The history of Spanish shoes
The history of Spanish shoes is a rich and diverse one, reflecting the country's long tradition of craftsmanship, culture, and fashion.
Spanish shoes have been appreciated for their quality, design, and innovation. Here's a brief overview of the history of Spanish shoes:
Ancient Roots: Spain's shoemaking history dates back to ancient times. The Phoenicians and Romans introduced early shoemaking techniques, including leatherwork.
Moorish Influence: During the Moorish rule of Spain, which lasted for centuries, there was a significant influence on Spanish culture, including shoemaking. Moorish artisans contributed to the development of decorative and intricate leatherwork techniques.
Espadrilles: One of the most iconic Spanish shoe styles is the espadrille, a shoe with a rope or jute sole and a canvas or fabric upper. Espadrilles have been worn in Spain for centuries and are associated with the Mediterranean and warm-weather regions.
Baroque Period: In the 17th century, Spain became known for producing luxury footwear, including high-quality leather shoes, often adorned with decorative elements like buckles and embroidery. Spanish shoes were sought after in the European courts.
19th Century: The 19th century saw the continued development of shoemaking craftsmanship, with various regions in Spain specializing in particular types of shoes. For example, the city of Almansa became known for the production of high-quality leather shoes.
Flamenco Shoes: Spain is renowned for its vibrant and passionate Flamenco dance, and this dance form has its own specialized footwear. Flamenco shoes, often with low heels, provide the necessary support and sound when dancers tap their heels.
Salvador Dalí and Surrealism: In the 20th century, the famous Spanish artist Salvador Dalí designed some highly unique and imaginative shoes, contributing to Spain's reputation for artistic and surreal shoemaking.
Contemporary Spanish Fashion: Spain is home to a number of well-known footwear brands, such as Manolo Blahnik, who has made a name for himself with his luxurious and elegant shoe designs. Additionally, Spanish fashion designers like Balenciaga and Loewe have incorporated Spanish craftsmanship into their shoe collections.
Regional Specialties: Different regions in Spain have their own shoe specialties. For instance, the Balearic Islands are known for Avarca sandals, while the region of La Rioja is famous for producing high-quality espadrilles.
Today, Spanish shoemakers continue to create a wide range of footwear, from traditional and artisanal to contemporary and high-fashion styles. The Spanish shoe industry remains a significant player in the global fashion world, known for its quality craftsmanship and innovative designs.
Top 2 Spanish shoes brands
Toni Pons
Toni Pons shoes have a strong Mediterranean character with a fashion and trend key, without sacrificing the artisanal side and the comfort of the shoe.
After more than 70 years in the sector, Toni Pons is the benchmark for quality espadrilles, innovating in its materials and technology without neglecting the essence of the product or the initial spirit.
From the first espadrilles made with jute or rubber and leather boots to the current 7 collections where everyone can find their perfect pair.
Castell Menorca
The soul of the Mediterranean lifestyle its palpable on Castell Menorca shoes.
Avarca sandal is based on the humble, functional shoes that farmers and fieldworkers traditionally wore on the island.
Today you can find them in all different colours and designs. Avarca Castell stands out for its pioneering and innovative character when it comes to applying new materials and designs in its products.
Always seeking to lead their sector with an eye on environmental care by using recycled car tyres for the sole for many of its avarcas.
What are the best handcrafted Spanish shoes brand?
Toni Pons and Castell Menorca are both reputable Spanish shoe brands known for their handcrafted footwear. They have their own unique styles and offerings, and their popularity varies depending on individual preferences.
Let's take a closer look at both brands:
Toni Pons:
Specialty: Toni Pons is renowned for its espadrilles and casual footwear. They are known for using traditional espadrille-making techniques to create comfortable and stylish shoes.
Style: Toni Pons shoes often feature classic and timeless designs with a Mediterranean flair. They are suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
Materials: The brand places a strong emphasis on natural and sustainable materials, such as jute, leather, and cotton.
Comfort: Toni Pons shoes are often praised for their comfort and durability.
Global Reach: Toni Pons is well-known internationally, and their espadrilles, in particular, are popular in many countries.
Castell Menorca (Avarca Castell):
Specialty: Castell Menorca is famous for its Avarca sandals, a traditional Balearic-style sandal. These sandals are crafted using artisanal techniques and materials.
Style: Castell Menorca's Avarca sandals have a distinct and classic Mediterranean look. They come in various colors and finishes, suitable for casual wear.
Materials: The brand is known for using high-quality natural leather for its sandals.
Comfort: Castell Menorca's Avarca sandals are known for their comfort and are considered a versatile summer staple.
Heritage: Castell Menorca has a long history and is deeply rooted in the culture of Menorca, an island in the Balearic archipelago.
Both Toni Pons and Castell Menorca are respected for their craftsmanship and commitment to using quality materials. Choosing between the two brands comes down to your personal style and preferences. Toni Pons offers a broader range of shoe styles, while Castell Menorca is renowned for its Avarca sandals, which are particularly popular in the Mediterranean and among travelers. Regardless of your choice, you can expect to receive well-crafted Spanish footwear with a touch of Mediterranean heritage.
What type of shoes are made in spain?
Spain is renowned for producing a wide variety of high-quality footwear, and several types of shoes are made in Spain.
Here are some of the popular types of shoes that are manufactured in Spain:
Espadrilles: Spain is famous for its traditional espadrilles, which are casual, lightweight shoes with jute or rope soles and canvas or fabric uppers. Espadrilles are comfortable and perfect for warm weather.
Flamenco Shoes: Spain is known for its traditional Flamenco dance, and specialized Flamenco shoes are crafted in Spain. These shoes are designed to enhance the performance and style of Flamenco dancers.
Menorcan Sandals (Avarcas): Menorcan sandals, also known as Avarcas, are handmade sandals that originated in the Balearic Islands, particularly Menorca. They are typically made from leather and are known for their comfort and simplicity.
Leather Boots: Spain produces high-quality leather boots, including riding boots, equestrian boots, and fashionable leather ankle boots. Spanish leather is often sought after for its durability and craftsmanship.
Wedges: Spain is known for crafting stylish and comfortable wedge sandals and shoes. Espadrille wedges are a popular choice.
Traditional Spanish Shoes (Alpargatas): Alpargatas are traditional Spanish shoes that are similar to espadrilles. They have been worn in Spain for generations and are often made with natural materials.
Handmade Leather Sandals: Spain has a long tradition of producing handmade leather sandals, both for men and women. These sandals are often known for their comfort and durability.
Sneakers: Spanish shoe brands also produce sneakers and athletic shoes, combining style and comfort.
Spanish shoemakers are respected for their craftsmanship, and many of these shoes are sought after for their quality and design. When shopping for Spanish-made shoes, consider the style and materials to find the perfect pair for your needs and preferences.
How is the quality of made in Spain shoes?
Shoes made in Spain are generally associated with high quality due to skilled craftsmanship, the use of fine materials, meticulous attention to detail, focus on comfort and fit, traditional manufacturing techniques, and the reputation of well-known brands and designers. While the quality can vary depending on the specific brand and type of shoe, Spanish-made footwear is often regarded for its style, durability, and overall craftsmanship.
How to clean espadrilles:
When it comes to maintaining your stylish Spanish shoes, knowing how to keep them clean is essential. If you want to ensure your favorite espadrilles remain in top condition, check out our detailed guide on how to clean espadrilles. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to keep your shoes looking brand new.
When can you start wearing espadrilles: To get the most out of your Spanish shoes, it's important to know when to wear them. If you're curious about the best times to break out your favorite pair, be sure to read our insightful article on when can you start wearing espadrilles. This guide will help you understand how to style your espadrilles year-round.
What sets Spanish shoe brands apart?
Spanish shoe brands are often distinguished by several key factors that set them apart in the global footwear industry:
Craftsmanship: Spanish shoe brands are known for their traditional craftsmanship. Many shoes are handmade by skilled artisans who pay meticulous attention to detail and take pride in their work. Craftsmanship is a hallmark of Spanish footwear.
Quality Materials: Spanish shoemakers use high-quality materials, including premium leathers, textiles, and components. The selection of these materials contributes to the durability, comfort, and overall quality of the shoes.
Comfort and Fit: Spanish-made shoes often prioritize comfort and proper fit. The combination of quality materials and craftsmanship ensures that the shoes are not only stylish but also comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Heritage and Tradition: Spain has a rich tradition of shoemaking that spans generations. Many brands and artisans continue to use traditional techniques and knowledge passed down through the years, resulting in a blend of heritage and modernity.
Design Innovation: Spanish shoe brands are known for their innovative and stylish designs. Whether it's classic, contemporary, or avant-garde footwear, Spanish designers are at the forefront of fashion trends, making their shoes highly sought after.
Reputation: Spain's reputation in the fashion industry, along with well-known designers and brands like Manolo Blahnik, Stuart Weitzman, and Camper, adds to the country's credibility in producing high-quality footwear.
Diverse Offerings: Spanish shoe brands offer a wide range of footwear, from casual espadrilles to high-end luxury heels. This diversity caters to various tastes and preferences, making Spanish shoes suitable for a broad market.
Sustainable Practices: Many Spanish shoe brands are increasingly focused on sustainable and ethical practices, using eco-friendly materials and production methods to reduce their environmental impact.
Versatility: Spanish shoes are designed to be versatile and suitable for various occasions, from everyday wear to special events. This adaptability makes them highly functional.
Attention to Detail: Spanish shoemakers pay careful attention to the finishing details of their products, including stitching, construction, and overall aesthetics, resulting in polished and refined footwear.
Global Presence: Spanish shoe brands have a strong global presence, with their products available in numerous countries. They have successfully expanded their reach and made their mark in the international market.
These factors collectively contribute to the reputation and success of Spanish shoe brands, making them popular choices for those seeking high-quality, stylish, and well-crafted footwear.
