Originating in Catalonia and the Basque Country, this little piece of linen or cotton canvas with a braided rope sole has been a runaway success for years. Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about espadrilles, but were afraid to ask!
The history of the legendary Pyrenean sandal
Once worn by shepherds in the Pyrenees, the espadrille is a very old shoe whose origins date back to the 13th century, as attested by old Catalan texts. At the time, they were the shoes of the poor and of soldiers. Light, rustic and robust, espadrilles have been closely associated with Basque costume since the 19th century. There was a time, not so long ago, when espadrilles were worn for all daily activities, from walking in the mountains to playing sports and even rugby! Popularized by Salvador Dalí, the espadrille has come a long way since then, and today is a must-have accessory in every summer wardrobe.
This summer’s star shoe, equally at home on asphalt or on the beach.
Classic or original, chic or casual like Gaston Lagaffe, and above all very comfortable, the espadrille is timeless and timeless. Colorful, plain, with traditional stripes or patterns, flat, with laces or wedge heels, the little canvas sandal from the Pyrenees oscillates between tradition and modernity, and since the 1980s has been a huge success with a mixed clientele. Quite simply, there’s an espadrille for everyone! To try them is to adopt them. All the more reason to consign flip-flops to the closet for good!
Mauléon, the Espadrille Capital of the World
To buy the best espadrilles in the world, you have to go to Mauléon, capital of Soule and… of espadrilles! It was here, in this village of some 3,000 inhabitants, nestled in the hills 65 km from our
The Espadrille Festival
Although the espadrille-making industry is no longer as strong as it once was, it’s still very much alive in Mauléon, as demonstrated by the espadrille festival. Every summer, on August 15, the capital of Soule celebrates the espadrille of Mauléon with great pomp and ceremony. On the program: traditional market on the fronton square, Soulet songs and dances, Basque choir, Grand Chistera match, 5 km espadrille race, Basque strength tests, tasting and sales of local products, espadrille-making workshop under big top.
Recognized craftsmanship
40 years ago, nearly 2,000 workers in the Basque Country were still making espadrilles by hand in the age-old tradition. Today, there are just 150. The reason: competition from Chinese manufacturers who are flooding the market with low-priced espadrilles, often of poor quality.
Genuine Basque espadrilles are made from natural materials: linen or cotton canvas, braided jute or hemp rope soles, natural rubber for the rubber. How to recognize a quality jute sole? The braiding is clearly visible on the edges of the shoe. The lighter the jute, the softer and higher quality it is.
Where to buy espadrilles in the Basque Country?
Here are a few good addresses, among many others, where you can buy genuine Basque espadrilles, a guarantee of quality and longevity.
- Mauléon-Licharre: Espadrilles Megam , 52, Boulevard Gambetta (www.espasoule.com); store atelier Don Quichosse, rue Jeanne d’Arc (www.donquichosse.com).
- Idaux-Mendy: Sarl Armaïte, Zone artisanale Metatia, 64130 (www.espadrilles-armaite.com).
- Saint-Jean-de-Luz: Espadrille by Nicole Paries, 52 Rue Léon Gambetta, (www.espadrille-paries.fr).
- Bayonne: La Maison de L’Espadrille, 2 rue Lormand (www.maisonespadrille.fr).
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port: L’Espadrille de Litxu, 2 rue d’Espagne (www.espadrilles-saintjeanpieddeport.com).
For authentic espadrilles made in the Basque country, hand or machine sewn, expect to pay around 30 euros.
Tips and tricks: how to clean your espadrilles?
To clean your espadrilles, gently rub the canvas with a sponge soaked in warm water and a little soap. Above all, avoid the washing machine, as the cord will shrink and lose its elasticity. In other words, your espadrilles will be ruined! Let them air-dry. Don’t put them in direct sunlight, as UV rays will discolor the fabric. Above all, never tumble-dry them, as this will damage the soles.
