Malfroid
French shoes, manufactured by Carlos Santos in Portugal
French brand, manufactured by Carlos Santos in Portugal. No in-house production.
Philosophy
French brand founded around 2016, manufactured by Carlos Santos in Portugal. Malfroid is part of the group of French brands relying on Carlos Santos for production. French design, recognized quality Portuguese manufacturing.
History
Paris, ~2016. Malfroid launches men's shoes. French design, classic codes. Manufacturing by Carlos Santos in Portugal. Same factory as Loding, Gustavia, JM Legazel. Same recipe: French brand, evocative name, polished website, Carlos Santos shoes with a markup.
On enthusiasts: virtually invisible. No reviews, no discussions. The community knows the OEM model and recommends buying Carlos Santos direct. Reliable because Carlos Santos is reliable. But Malfroid adds nothing the other brands from the same maker don't. A logo on a Portuguese shoe.
Iconic Products
Oxford
Malfroid's classic Oxford. Made by Carlos Santos, Goodyear welt, calf leather. Same shoe exists at Loding, Gustavia, and direct from Carlos Santos for less. Product is decent. Brand's added value, not so much.
Derby
Malfroid's derby. Same Carlos Santos origin, same construction. More casual than the Oxford. The problem is structural: without exclusive last or specific leather, it's a rebadged Carlos Santos.
Mocassin
Malfroid's loafer. The best-selling format for this type of brand. Decent construction, honest leather. Same price, Carlos Santos direct will be superior in choice and finishing.