Eco-design since 1491 : La Manual Alpargatera
by Petz Scholtus, Barcelona on 05.30.05
It’s like entering another world or rather another time zone when you step into La Manual Alpargatera shop and workshop in the heart of Barcelona. Stacks of espadrilles, colourful ribbons, wooden tools, the smell of jute as well as the experienced friendly Catalan staff create a unique atmosphere. La Manual Alpargatera started their espadrille workshop back in the forties and apart from a few additional more creative designs they have successfully stuck to the craft of making this footwear.
The espadrille is a light ecological shoe made from natural ingredients: hemp, jute and esparto grass for the sole, cotton and linen for the instep. So the only thing we are slightly worried about is the glue they use to make the soles.
This basic light shoe has probably survived all these centuries because it offers comfortable footwear for any foot and budget, which proves that a good design avoids becoming obsolete and preserves a product’s value over time.
To preserve your espadrilles, avoid wearing them on wet ground or wash and dry them after they have been worn wet to avoid the sole from deforming due to the bodyweight.
On your next visit to Barcelona, say hello to:
::La Manual Alpargatera
c/ Avinyó 7, Barcelona
[Petz]
