KLEMAN

Family manufacture founded in 1945, specialized in robust work shoes repurposed for urban fashion. Historic supplier to French institutions. 100% made in France in La Romagne (Anjou). Accessible pricing for French-made footwear.

Rene Cleon is a shoemaker-bootmaker. In 1940, he was taken prisoner during the Battle of France. Five years in a Stalag in Germany, where he continued to shape leather shoes. Upon his return in 1945, he set up a workshop in the family home in La Romagne, a small village in Maine-et-Loire. First sewing machines, first apprentices, specialization in Kneipp stitching.

The workshop grew. Cleon became a supplier to French institutions: SNCF, Air France, Customs, the army, firefighters. The shoes are robust, functional, designed for people who walk all day. No fashion, no design, just work.

In the 70s-80s, sons Jacques and Louis-Marie took over. In 1988, the KLEMAN brand was launched, a contraction of Cleon Manufacture. The Cleon Chaussures group also owns KOST Paris, Le Formier, Auguin, and Redskins and Azzaro licenses.

Then the Padror arrived. This work Tyrolean derby, with its notched rubber sole and European leather, became a phenomenon. The world of streetwear and urban fashion discovered it: it's the Paraboot Michael at a third of the price. Around 142 euros compared to 400 for Paraboot. The style is similar, the workwear spirit is the same.

But we must be honest: the construction is not the same. Most Kleman models are cemented (glued), not Goodyear or Norwegian welted like Paraboot. Resoling is limited. The leather is correct but not premium. Among enthusiasts, the consensus is clear: "Good for what it is." A stylish French work shoe at an affordable price, but it should not be compared to Paraboot in terms of construction.

Three generations later, 45 employees still produce in La Romagne. This is authentic Made in France, at a price where Made in France almost no longer exists.