Founded in 1908 by Rémy Richard-Pontvert, Paraboot is a French shoe brand. As one of the few shoe manufacturers in the world that manufactures its own soles, it continues to produce shoes using traditional techniques that have remained unchanged since its inception, captivating customers worldwide with its high quality and comfortable fit. This time, we will focus on PARABOOT , a brand beloved by many fans at ISETAN MEN'S , and explain the secrets behind its popularity.

1. History Section

It all started with rubber boots I brought back from America!

The history of PARABOOT began in 1919 when French shoemaker Rémy Richard-Pontvert brought back "rubber-covered boots" he found while staying in America. Inspired by these boots, Rémy conceived the idea for leather shoes with rubber soles, and began manufacturing shoes by directly importing natural latex from the Port of Para in Brazil.


At a time when leather and wood were the dominant materials for leather shoe soles, PARABOOT 's rubber soles were highly innovative. Robust, wear-resistant, weather-resistant, and comfortable, they quickly gained popularity among French workers, firefighters, postal workers, and soldiers as work shoes. Furthermore, in the 1960s, they became a favorite of adventurers, including the famous French Arctic explorer Paul-Émile Victor, establishing their position as outdoor footwear.

Subsequently, PARABOOT produced iconic masterpieces such as "Chambord" and "Michael," and expanded its presence to countries around the world. Among Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building shoes, it has gained support not only for its reliable quality and functional beauty, but also for its timeless design that transcends age, and is incorporated into outfits that suit a variety of lifestyles and occasions.

2. Manufacturing Section

A consistent spirit of in-house manufacturing that has been passed down since the company's founding to the present day.

"Bringing genuine reliability, high quality, and appeal to every product."
Since its founding as the "world's only shoe manufacturer" that consistently manufactures its own soles, PARABOOT has maintained its unwavering spirit of craftsmanship and tradition, continuing to produce its shoes under strict standards.

Among them, PARABOOT is characterized by its rubber sole, which is the foundation of the brand, and its distinctive Norwegian welt construction. Here, we will explain these two points.

I. The three rubber soles that support PARABOOT

PARABOOT 's rubber soles are made using a unique rubber synthesis method developed for efficiency and quality, and high-quality products are still produced today by skilled craftsmen. The process begins with evenly kneading the rubber on rollers, then stretching it into a bar shape so that each shoe can be cut individually. Next, it is baked at 260 degrees Celsius and 200 tons of pressure, with the baking method subtly adjusted depending on the type of sole. The secret to PARABOOT 's comfort and durability lies in the rubber produced through this meticulous process, and it is PARABOOT 's proud rubber sole that skillfully combines the seemingly contradictory qualities of softness and durability.

II. PARABOOT 's distinctive Norwegian welted construction

PARABOOT , a manufacturer of Norwegian-welted shoes, has absolute confidence in this method. Originally used for mountaineering boots, this is an extremely time-consuming method that involves more than 150 steps to complete. A strip of leather called a welt is used to sew the upper and sole together with double stitching, creating unwavering sturdiness. Furthermore, because the welt is folded and sewn in an L-shape, it prevents water from entering while also creating a unique appearance and high fashion appeal not seen in other manufacturing methods.

3. Models

Its versatility is its main appeal. Staff from Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building tried on 5 representative models!

PARABOOT is known not only for its high functionality and durability, but also for its simple and versatile designs, making it a fashion icon and extremely popular among stylish adults at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building .

In the model section, in addition to five of the brand's most popular models, five employees from Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , who are Paraboot enthusiasts, introduce the styles they have incorporated into their outfits. Discover the appeal of PARABOOT , which suits a wide range of outfits, both on and off duty.

1. CHAMBORD | Chambord

For many years, U-tip models were produced under names such as "AMAERCA" and "CHAMBER," but after minor changes to the welt and materials, "CHAMBORD" was born in 1987. "CHAMBORD," a staple that could be called the face of the brand, uses "PARATEX," which is made from 100% natural latex produced entirely in-house, in the sole to cope with various situations (rain, poor road conditions, etc.).

Furthermore, the leather used is carefully selected, featuring "Liswaxy" leather, which has a higher wax content than regular leather, resulting in superior durability, water resistance, a comfortable fit, and a unique sheen. This model is loved by fans all over the world. Its versatile design, suitable for both formal and casual occasions, also matches current trends, and among the Paraboot shoes available at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building the black "CHAMBORD" is the most popular.

2. MICHAEL | Michael

Born in 1945 to celebrate the birth of Michel Richard (pronounced "Michael" in Latin), the grandson of founder Rémy Richard-Pontvert and current chairman, this model is a representative example of PARABOOT brand that spread its name worldwide and remains highly popular as a masterpiece of Tyrolean shoes. While traditional Tyrolean shoes are predominantly heavy-duty with strong mountain and ethnic elements, the "MICHAEL" model eliminated these aspects, making it easier to match with everyday clothing and contributing to its global popularity.


See Iwata's snaps wearing "MICAEL" here

3. AVIGNON | Avignon

These are basic U-tip shoes made using a technique called "overlay moccasin," where the vamp leather is placed on the side of the upper and sewn. The design of the collar is based on that of parachute boots. In addition, the same "Lisse leather" used in the "CHAMBORD" model is used.
While generally categorized as casual shoes, the "AVIGNON" has a long, sleek toe design that makes it a good match for jacket styles. It has been popular for many years in France, where there is a strong culture of wearing jackets.

4. REIMS | Lance

This is a loafer model of the classic Tyrolean shoe "MICHAEL," which debuted in 1986.
Because of the thick soles, the opening of these loafers is made deep and finished at a unique angle to prevent the heel from slipping off. This item, which has an American feel yet exudes French sophistication, has become widely recognized around the world. After a 10-year production period, production was discontinued in 1995, but it was revived in 2009 due to popular demand from many customers and has become one of the brand's indispensable signature models.


See Masuda's photos wearing "REIMS" here.

5. WILLIAM | William

This is a representative French design item inspired by riding boots, specifically the double monk strap style. PARABOOT once handled the casual line " CORTAGE COLLECTION " for JOHN LOBB , one of the world's top shoe brands, and this model appeared in that collection. It continues to be produced today using the original shoe last.
See Iwata's snaps wearing "WILLIAM" here

4. Q&A Section

Frequently asked questions from customers at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building

The staff at PARABOOT , a men's shoe store on the first basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , will answer frequently asked questions from customers in-store.


Q1. Can I wear them on rainy days?

A1 . Made with leather rich in oil, a rubber sole, and Norwegian welt construction, these shoes are highly durable and can be worn without worry even in the rain. However, they are not completely waterproof, so please take care of them if they get wet. *Please refer to Q3 for care instructions.


Q2. What is the white powder-like substance on the surface of the shoes?

A2. It's wax.
The wax contained in the leather solidifies due to changes in temperature and rises to the surface. In this case, brushing will make the surface look clean.


Q3. How do I care for it?

A3. For polishing and oil replenishment, please refer to the brand's official care guide below.


Q4. Please tell me about the fit (sizing).

A4. The standard models ("Chambord," "Avignon," "Michael," "William," and "Reims") have a large heel cup, so the fit is larger than other leather shoe models. As a rough guideline, a staff member who normally wears a size 27cm in adidas Stan Smith sneakers wears a size 7 in PARABOOT .

Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store | View PARABOOT product list