Paraboot is one of the few footwear brands that can genuinely trace its story back more than a century while still manufacturing in France today. From humble beginnings in a small Alpine village to becoming an internationally recognised name in premium footwear, the brand has remained committed to traditional shoemaking, quality materials and timeless design. At Jeanstore, we're proud to stock a brand whose heritage is built on craftsmanship rather than trends, with every pair reflecting generations of expertise and innovation.
From a small village to an iconic French brand
Paraboot's story begins in 1908 with Rémy Richard, a young shoemaker from the village of Izeaux in the French Alps. After recognising an opportunity to sell his own designs directly to customers, he established the foundations of what would become one of France's most respected footwear manufacturers. By combining traditional craftsmanship with an entrepreneurial mindset, Rémy quickly transformed a small operation into a growing business.
A defining moment came in 1926 when Rémy travelled to the United States and discovered the potential of natural rubber. Inspired by the durability and practicality of rubber footwear, he developed his own manufacturing techniques before registering the name Paraboot in 1927. The name itself combines "Para", the Brazilian port famous for exporting latex, with the English word "boot" – a nod to the innovation that would become central to the brand's identity.
Built on durability, not disposable fashion
Following the Second World War, many footwear manufacturers moved towards faster, cheaper production methods using glued construction and synthetic materials. Paraboot chose a different path. Under Julien Richard's leadership, the company remained committed to traditional welted construction, thick leather uppers and hard-wearing rubber soles designed to last for years rather than seasons.
This commitment attracted professionals who relied on dependable footwear every day, from farmers and foresters to postal workers, veterinarians and craftsmen. During this period, Paraboot introduced some of its most enduring designs, including the Morzine and, in 1945, the legendary Michael. Decades later, the Michael remains one of the brand's defining styles, proving that timeless design never goes out of fashion.
Innovation through every generation
Throughout the following decades, Paraboot continued to evolve while staying true to its roots. The company produced specialist footwear for mountaineers, explorers, military pilots and athletes, demonstrating that traditional craftsmanship could meet the demands of highly technical environments. This willingness to innovate helped establish the brand's reputation far beyond France.
The 1980s marked another turning point. Facing financial challenges, Paraboot narrowly avoided closure before the unexpected popularity of the Michael in Italy transformed the company's fortunes. The shoe became a fashion icon, opening the door to international growth, new boutiques across Europe and Japan, and a fourth generation of the Richard family continuing the business. Today, Paraboot remains one of the last major French footwear manufacturers producing sewn footwear in France, combining over 100 years of heritage with a modern outlook.
French craftsmanship that continues today
Paraboot's success has never been built on chasing trends. Instead, it has remained focused on producing footwear with exceptional materials, traditional construction methods and designs that stand the test of time. From its pioneering use of natural rubber soles to its continued commitment to French manufacturing, every chapter of the brand's history reflects a dedication to quality over compromise.
More than a century after Rémy Richard took his first steps towards creating the company, Paraboot continues to represent everything enthusiasts value in premium footwear: authenticity, durability and craftsmanship passed down through four generations. It is this commitment to making shoes properly that has earned Paraboot its place among the world's most respected heritage footwear brands.
Click here to explore the full Paraboot collection at Jeanstore and discover footwear built to last for generations.
