Guide to Quality Footwear - Tyrolean Shoes
This style of shoes was born sometime after 1900 in Tyrol, a region in the Alps that lies between Austria and Italy. Some information says they were made for workers and other that they were made for Tyrolean aristocrats for hunting, but they were designed for long walks on the rocky mountain terrain and that’s why they’re comfortable, have strong grip and are made to handle any weather.
They're easily recognizable by their distinctive moccasin stitching around the toe and double eyelets. Most styles are built with Norwegian welt construction to keep them waterproof and finished with thick rubber soles for extra grip.
In 1945 Parisian bootmaker Paraboot released Michael model and introduced this style to wider audience. It became the standard for all Tyrolean shoes that followed. The brand was so confident in its quality that it offered a 10-month guarantee, promising no repairs would be needed. This is the reason why many people think Paraboot is the original Tyrolean shoe.
It’s also worth noting their resemblance to other iconic styles, such as Clarks’ ‘Wallabee’ (introduced in 1967) or Red Wing’s moc-toe boots (from 1952), both of which came after Paraboot’s design.
In the mid-1980s, Paraboot was close to bankruptcy, but a revival came thanks to W.P. Lavori, a distributor from Bologna who recognized its potential. After the ‘Michael’ was reintroduced, it quickly gained popularity among style enthusiasts across Europe. Like many classic, well-made pieces, it became highly popular in Japan.
Today, Paraboot Michael is considered as a great value and a classic in the workwear community - the gold standard for Tyrolean shoes, and I would like to talk about other alternatives available.
Kleman - Padror
René Cléon, a shoemaker and bootmaker, began his legacy during World War II, crafting leather shoes. After the war, he started a shoe workshop and later built a factory. In the 1970s-1980s his sons Jacques and Louis-Marie took over and expanded the business. In 1988, the KLEMAN label was launched, becoming a trusted supplier for French public institutions like the national railway and Air France. Known for durable, high-quality shoes, KLEMAN models meet safety standards and remain popular for their timeless, functional workwear style.
The production is still entirely based in France, at their workshop in Anjou. Their shoes are made with cemented construction, where the upper is glued to the sole, which is one of the main reasons they are more affordable.
I recently got a pair, and they’re very comfortable, but I need to wear them more before I can give a full review. That said, since they cost about a third of the price of a Paraboot Michael, I understand why many see them as a great alternative. The real question is how long they’ll last, but when you consider that nearly three pairs of Padrors cost the same as one Michael, owning multiple Padror pairs in different materials and colors not only gives you more versatility but also helps extend their lifespan. Something to keep in mind if you're thinking about making a purchase.
Another great thing about Padror model is that it comes in a lot of different colors and finishes.
Price: 160€, get it here.
Chaussures de Gâtine - Megève
Founded by Charles Gilbert in 1957 in Parthenay, France, this brand has a rich legacy in traditional craftsmanship. Originally focused on creating durable footwear for workers, the company specialized in practical and sturdy designs. The brand has always focused on quality, using premium leather and Norwegian welt construction. All manufacturing is done in the Anjou workshop, preserving French craftsmanship. The business closed in 2020 but was revived in 2021 by new owners to keep its shoemaking heritage alive. Today, the brand continues its tradition of producing ethical, sustainable and repairable hand-crafted shoes that are built to last.
It comes in 10 different variations.
Price: 279€, get it here.
Mephisto - Peppo
Founded in 1965 by Martin Michaeli in Sarrebourg, France, Mephisto is a world-renowned footwear brand known for its comfort, quality craftsmanship, and innovative design. Over the years, the brand has expanded its offerings to include various lines and moved the production to Portugal.
Peppo model is their take on Tyroleean shoe, made with Norwegian welt construction. It comes in 4 different variations.
Price: 279€, get it here.
Christian Pellet - Macho
A French brand making shoes since 1860, now with production in Portugal.
The Model Macho is their take on the Tyrolean shoe. They don’t provide details about the construction, but based on the price I suspect it’s cemented. I’m still waiting to hear back if they decide to provide more details. If anyone has any insights or experience with the brand, please let me know.
Another great thing about Macho model is that it comes in a lot of different colors and finishes.
Price: 279€, get it here.
Velasca - Zibrett
An Italian brand founded in 2013, Velasca focuses on creating high-quality, handcrafted shoes. Inspired by everyday life, their products emphasize authenticity, timeless style and responsible production. Velasca is committed to environmental sustainability and supporting its community, making products that reflect true Italian craftsmanship.
Model Zibrett is made with Blake welt construction.
It comes in 5 different variations.
Price: 340€, get it here.
Scarosso - Damiano
Scarosso is an Italian footwear brand, established in 2009, known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Their shoes are handmade in Italy, focusing on high-quality materials and sustainability. They offer timeless, stylish footwear that honours Italian shoemaking heritage.
Model Damiano is made with Blake welt construction.
It comes in 4 different variations.
Price: 305€, get it here.
Astorflex - Beenflex
Astorflex has been crafting premium Italian footwear since 1820, focusing on eco-friendly practices and high-quality materials. They use locally sourced vegetable-tanned leathers, water-based dyes, solvent-free glues and natural rubber soles, resulting in shoes that are 100% ecological.
The Beenflex model is made with an unlined suede upper and comes in two variations. One has a rubber sole, similar to the traditional Tyrolean model, while the other is built on a single crepe sole, giving it a less rugged appeal.
It comes in 2 variations.
Price: 305€, get it here.
So far, I only have experience with Paraboot and Kleman, and I also tried on the Astorflex pair in-store. I would love to hear about your experiences with Tyrolean shoes, if you have a favorite, or if you would like to try any of these brands.
