Whatever your question about espadrilles, here's the answer...

How to tie your espadrilles

There is always a lot of debate on this one but here's how we recommend you do it:

The single cross front tie

Simple and stylish, this bow-at-the-front style works best with lower wedge styles.

The double cross back tie

A bit more complicated, this style needs longer laces to wrap around the ankle.

The single lace back tie

A crossed style that will show your ankles off to perfection! Works well with any lace up style.

Do espadrilles stretch?

That's a good question...

Canvas espadrilles are super comfortable and used to be worn by farmers in the fields, so the answer is yes; espadrilles do stretch out and will adapt to the shape of your foot.

Try wearing them around the house to allow them to fit your feet perfectly! If you have bought a pair of Viscatas and they are still too tight - send them back here and get the next size up :-)

Caring for your shoes

Can you get espadrilles wet or will they shrink?

It's best not to get them wet if you can help it - although they will only shrink in the dryer and not from rain or day-to-day use

If you get caught in the rain and the soles do get wet, stuff the shoes with newsprint and allow them to completely dry out! And definitely don't wear them in the sea!

Can you wash espadrilles?

We would advice against putting them in washing machine. The canvas would be fine, but the jute sole could be damaged. If they do get a little dirty, wipe the canvas upper with soapy cloth or sponge – but do not submerge in water. This way the jute sole will stay stronger for longer.

What if my shoes get wet?

Because the sole of the shoe is covered in natural rubber the bottom is protected from water. However, if you notice the jute rope has gotten slightly wet, just place the shoes where they can air dry.

How do I clean my shoes?

Hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent and let them air dry. They will mold to your feet again after some use.

Learn more here.

Can espadrilles be repaired?

As espadrilles are handmade, the only way to get them repaired properly is by a cobbler. Hopefully your Viscata shoes will last you for a good while though...

Manufacturing

How do you make espadrilles?

Original and authentic espadrilles are handmade by artisans in northern Spain using traditional techniques. Craftsmen still hand wrap the jute and sow each shoe with care! Take a look at the process here.

Where are Viscata shoes manufactured?

All our shoes are manufactured in Spain and are all handcrafted by artisans in the centuries old tradition.

Learn more about designing and producing espadrilles here.

What are espadrilles made from?

Originally espadrilles were made from a durable cotton called canvas. Nowadays, the shoes are made from all sorts of fabrics including leather and suede and other materials!

The sole and heel are made of a rope-like material called jute which is a strong vegetable fibre, mostly grown in tropical countries like India and Bangladesh. It's also easy to produce, sturdy, and biodegradable so it's the perfect material to use for making shoes.

Quick fact: it's also the second most common fibre grown and used across the world!

Are espadrilles true to size? What size should I get?

As espadrilles are handmade there is always some variation, but on the whole they come up a little small. Obviously each pair is different, but we suggest going a size up, unless a particular style says otherwise.

FYI: all Viscata shoes are medium width so our espadrilles should fit narrow feet and most wide feet...

Where do espadrilles come from?

Espadrilles originate from Occitania and Catalonia in Southern French and Northern Spain as far back as the 13th Century. Originally the shoes were worn by soldiers, farmers and workers. Easy to make, lightweight and comfortable — they were perfect for working long hours on your feet!

Espadrille fashion

Espadrilles are here to stay! Get to know more here. There is so much to learn about espadrilles and their history. A summary can be found here.

How should I wear espadrilles?

The best thing about these shoes is that they are very versatile - so you can wear them with jeans or shorts for a casual summer look, or a pair of espadrille wedges with a dress for an elegant evening look!

Can you wear espadrilles in Winter and Fall?

On the whole traditional canvas espadrilles are best worn during the warm and dry summer months. Come the Fall you can opt for suede and leather styles instead, that will be more durable in the colder seasons.

Are espadrilles made for men or women?

Both! Espadrilles are completely unisex and were originally worn by farmers and foot soldiers! We have a great collection of both Men's and Women's styles here at viscata.

How do you pronounce 'espadrilles'?

It's not as complicated as it looks - just take a look:

What is the difference between espadrilles and alpargatas?

Nothing! They are the same thing, but just in 2 different languages! Espadrilles is French and Alpargatas is Spanish. So now you know.