Construction and materials: the Paraboot manufacture since 1908
Paraboot was founded in 1908 in France. Production takes place in the brand's workshops, with many processes still carried out manually following classic techniques. This production continuity results in footwear where every detail — stitching, lining, sole — meets long-established standards rather than seasonal trends.
Norwegian welt
Paraboot loafers are assembled with a Norwegian welt, a traditional technique that joins the upper and sole through a robust, visible external stitch on the shoe's edge. According to the brand's description, this method provides greater waterproofing and durability compared to other assembly systems. The stitching is one of the product's most recognizable elements and is common to both models in the catalog.
Leather lining and natural rubber sole
The inner lining is entirely in leather, promoting breathability and comfort during prolonged use. The sole is made of natural rubber, a material the brand describes as suitable for both urban use and more informal contexts, offering good grip and flexibility. The name "Paraboot" is historically linked to the natural para-rubber used for the soles, originally imported from the port of Pará (Brazil).
Models: Michael and Chambord
Paraboot Michael — black, brown, whisky
The Michael is the brand's historic model: created in 1945 by the second generation of the Richard-Pontvert family, it has remained in continuous production and is now one of the most recognizable loafers in the range. The catalog offers three colors: black, brown, and whisky. The whisky version features a suede (velours) upper, unlike the black and brown versions which are in smooth leather. Its low profile and clean lines make it suitable for multi-seasonal rotations with denim, chinos, and non-tailored wool trousers. All three colors are Carry Over.
Paraboot Chambord — black, coffee
The Chambord is the "golf" model by Paraboot, inspired by the castles of the Loire Valley. The distinctive construction detail is the 45° apron stitching, an exclusive Paraboot feature that makes the silhouette immediately recognizable. Available in black and coffee. According to the brand, the Chambord last is also suitable for narrower feet due to its construction. The open lacing and angled toe expand its range of use compared to a pure loafer: it works across a spectrum from informal office wear to the weekend.
How to choose between Michael and Chambord
Michaelis the direct choice for daily heritage use: jeans, chinos, heavy cotton. The whisky version in velours is the most characteristic of the range and pairs well with autumn palettes. The black and brown smooth leather versions have a more neutral profile, adaptable to more contexts. The fit is generous with a rounded toe: immediate comfort without a long break-in period.
Chambordcovers a slightly more formal range. The 45° apron stitching and open lacing work with structured trousers, tailored chinos, and non-formal work outfits. The coffee color leans towards warm palettes; black is the more versatile of the two available colors. The specific last makes it particularly suitable for those with narrower feet.
For the summer wardrobe, both models can be worn without socks with heavy cotton or walking shorts. In autumn, solid-colored wool socks are the most consistent pairing with the shoe's robust construction.
Those pairing Paraboot with a denim wardrobe will find useful references in theEdwin and Carhartt WIP men's denim section. For work footwear with Goodyear welt construction, the natural comparison is with theRed Wing Shoes Heritage collection. For a complete overview of available men's shoes — boat shoes, Sebago loafers, sneakers — the reference page ismen's shoes.
Care and maintenance
The assortment includes two Paraboot care products, both Made in France and Carry Over.
Graisse Paraboot— a grease formulated with animal waxes, mineral waxes, and natural oils. The brand describes it as a product that waterproofs, softens, nourishes, and protects the leather over time. It is the primary product for maintaining the smooth leather upper and the sole.
GANTS LUSTRER— a lambskin glove to restore shine to the shoe's surface, used after the grease to complete the care ritual.
The natural rubber sole benefits from periodic cleaning with a damp cloth; Graisse Paraboot maintains the upper's flexibility and nourishment.
FAQ
Where are Paraboot shoes produced?
All Paraboot footwear and accessories in the assortment are produced in France. The brand has maintained artisanal production in its own workshops since 1908, with many processes still performed manually.
What are the Norwegian welts on Paraboot loafers?
The Norwegian welt is a traditional technique that joins the upper and sole through a robust, visible external stitch on the shoe's edge. Paraboot describes this method as providing greater waterproofing and durability to the footwear.
How do Paraboot loafers fit?
Paraboot loafers feature a generous fit with a rounded toe, designed to offer immediate comfort. The Chambord model, due to its specific last, is described by the brand as also suitable for narrower feet. It is advisable to consider the wide fit when choosing a size.
What is the difference between Michael and Chambord?
The Michael is a classic loafer, created in 1945, available in black, brown, and whisky (velours). The Chambord is distinguished by its 45° apron stitching — an exclusive Paraboot feature — and is available in black and coffee. The Michael has a more casual and versatile profile; the Chambord has a slightly more structured appearance, suitable even for semi-formal contexts.
Are Paraboot models available year-round?
Yes. Michael and Chambord are both Carry Over: permanent models, not tied to launch seasons or end-of-series. The Graisse Paraboot and GANTS LUSTRER care accessories are also Carry Over. For pairings with the rest of your wardrobe, themen's shoe collectionoffers a complete reference for all available categories.
