Men’s Espadrilles: A Timeless Classic with a Modern Twist

Who hasn’t spotted espadrilles at a campsite, on the beach, or at a sun-drenched café terrace during the summer? These light, casual shoes, synonymous with relaxation and a distinctive artisanal charm, have a rich history that extends beyond their current association with leisure.

The History of the Espadrille

Classified broadly as sandals, espadrilles are characterized by their woven rope soles made from hemp, jute, or esparto grass. This distinctive feature dates back centuries. Some historians claim that soldiers from the Kingdom of Aragon wore espadrilles as early as the 12th and 13th centuries, suggesting an Iberian origin. The name itself derives from the Catalan word “espardenya,” meaning “sandals of esparto.”

The espadrille’s journey spans both sides of the Pyrenees. In northeastern Spain, it began as footwear for field workers and became a symbol of regional folklore, eventually becoming an integral part of traditional Catalan attire. In France, espadrille production was industrialized in the 19th century, particularly in Saint-Laurent-de-Cerdans (Pyrénées Orientales) and Mauléon-Licharre in the Basque Country, a town now synonymous with the iconic rope sole.

The espadrille made its way into rural and industrial contexts, serving as sturdy and comfortable footwear for farmers and miners alike. During the Spanish Civil War of 1936, some espadrille workshops, like Castañer, were nationalized to supply soldiers, while French military personnel also adopted the comfortable sandal during periods of rest.

By the 20th century, the espadrille’s reputation for comfort and flexibility broadened, thanks in part to designer Yves Saint-Laurent. The iconic sandal became a symbol of vacation leisure for the French, especially after paid vacations were introduced in 1936.

Espadrilles in the Modern Era

In the 21st century, espadrilles have evolved from their utilitarian roots to become a fashionable staple in men’s wardrobes from spring to autumn. At Besson Chaussures, our collection showcases a range of espadrilles that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style.

Our selection includes classic flat espadrilles with a canvas upper sewn onto woven rope soles made from hemp, jute, or esparto. These timeless designs come in various colors, from deep navy to khaki, black, grey, and brown.

Modern espadrilles often feature additional stylistic elements, such as embroidery or prints with floral or animal motifs in vibrant or subtle colors. To cater to diverse preferences and enhance ventilation, our collection also includes espadrilles with perforated panels and lace-up designs, marking a small but significant departure from the traditional laceless style.

Explore the Besson Chaussures catalog to find espadrilles that capture both the essence of their historical roots and the vibrancy of contemporary fashion.

Espadrilles shoes & Rope sole shoes

Men’s Espadrilles: A Timeless Classic with a Modern Twist

The History of the Espadrille

Espadrilles in the Modern Era