The tradition of handmade espadrilles in Barcelona
For decades, La Manual Alpargatera® has preserved the traditional craft of Mediterranean espadrilles. Each pair we produce in our Barcelona workshop is a living testament to traditional techniques that combine elegance, quality, and sustainability.
The Art of the Espadrille: Yesterday and Today
The workshop of La Manual Alpargatera
Espadrilles made of esparto grass have been an essential part of Mediterranean tradition for centuries. However, nowadays, the soles are made with jute, a natural fiber that offers greater flexibility and comfort. At La Manual Alpargatera, we honor this evolution by selecting the finest jute soles for our women's and men's espadrilles, wedges, and platforms. Our workshop is a space where tradition and sustainable fashion come together, transforming each sole into a unique piece using artisanal techniques passed down through generations.
The sole: the foundation of a tradition
The process of creating a jute sole begins with transforming the fiber into yarn. This yarn is braided to form a continuous strip which, through warping, is shaped into the sole. Warping is a traditional technique that involves folding the braid over itself in a predetermined way to give the sole its shape. The warped sole is then stitched crosswise to ensure its consistency and shape. Finally, it is vulcanized by adding a layer of natural rubber to the base, which improves its durability and resistance to wear.
The art of the remount: hands that bring each pair to life.
The true essence of a handcrafted espadrille lies in its assembly. At La Manual Alpargatera, this process is done entirely by hand, using traditional tools that have been used by artisans for centuries. To pierce the fibers precisely, a palmette or needle-punch is used—a piece that protects the palm of the hand and allows the needle to be pushed with the necessary force. Additionally, the artisans wear a leather sleeve on their index finger, which helps to hold and stretch the thread without damaging the skin. Each stitch reinforces tradition and ensures that our jute espadrilles, wedges, and platforms are comfortable and true to the Mediterranean spirit.
A workshop where tradition lives on.
Located in the heart of Barcelona, our artisan workshop is a space where history and the present meet. Here, visitors can discover firsthand the process of assembling women's and men's espadrilles, observe our artisans at work, and understand why this footwear remains a symbol of authenticity and quality. From classic jute espadrilles to elegant wedges or modern platforms, each pair that leaves our workshop is more than just a shoe: it's a piece of history, a commitment to sustainable fashion, and a tribute to Mediterranean craftsmanship.
In the shop at Pueblo Español
La Manual Alpargatera remains faithful to the process of making espadrilles to this day.
