The Espadrille Workshop in Marseille
At Espigas, our espadrilles are unique, comfortable, and of exceptional quality. What’s the secret? A handcrafted production process carried out with passion at the ESAT du Rouet in Marseille.
This partnership allows us to promote local craftsmanship while supporting professional inclusion for workers with disabilities, whom we proudly call our handi-artisans.
A Unique Artisan Craftsmanship
Each Marseille espadrille is the result of a meticulous manufacturing process, requiring several precise steps to ensure a durable and comfortable shoe. Here are the different production phases carefully carried out by our artisans:
1️⃣ Dyeing the Upper – The cotton fabric is carefully dyed to achieve vibrant and long-lasting colors.
2️⃣ Shaping the Upper – The fabric is placed on a specific mold to give the espadrille its distinctive silhouette.
3️⃣ Gluing the Heel – The heel is securely glued to ensure stability and comfort.
4️⃣ Glue Reactivation & Heel Folding – The glue is heated using a flash oven to maximize its effectiveness, and the back of the upper is folded over the heel using a shoemaker’s clamp.
This attention to detail ensures that every Espigas espadrille is not only aesthetic and durable but also embodies the tradition of handmade craftsmanship.
5️⃣ Preparing the Rubber Sole – A primer is applied to the sole to ensure perfect adhesion before applying the glue.
6️⃣ Applying Polyurethane Glue – The glue is carefully applied with precision, using a brush or even a toothbrush.
7️⃣ Gluing the Upper & Glue Reactivation – The upper is also glued and heated in the flash oven for an optimal bond with the sole.
8️⃣ Final Assembly in the Press – The two parts are manually aligned, then placed in a 6-bar press to ensure a perfect fixation.
9️⃣ Finishing Touches & Adjustments – Once removed from the mold, our artisans apply precision glue using a syringe to fill any small gaps between the fabric and the sole. The glue is then reactivated with a hairdryer, and both parts are hand-pressed for an impeccable finish and maximum durability.
🔟 Cleaning & Quality Control – Each pair is inspected, cleaned, and carefully checked to remove any glue residue and ensure a flawless final product.
Through this detailed artisanal process, Espigas guarantees exceptional quality, combining comfort, durability, and authentic craftsmanship.
1️⃣1️⃣ Adding the Insole – For optimal comfort, an insole is added.
1️⃣2️⃣ Labeling & Packaging – Once completed, the espadrilles are labeled and carefully packed, ready to reach their future owners.
A Responsible & Committed Manufacturing Process
By choosing Espigas Marseille espadrilles, you are supporting a local, ethical, and inclusive production. Each pair tells a story of passion, expertise, and social commitment.
Our handi-artisans pour their talent and dedication into the making of each shoe, offering you an exceptional product.
