In the world of footwear, Portugal is emerging as a major player, quietly but confidently making its mark. Celebrated for its unwavering commitment to quality and masterful craftsmanship, Portugal has established itself as a notable competitor to traditional heritage footwear producers like Italy and England. What sets Portugal apart, beyond its artisanal finesse, is its ability to balance excellence and affordability. Portuguese shoemakers deliver top-notch, high-end footwear without the exorbitant price tags commonly associated with traditional Northamptonshire-made shoes. This unique combination makes Portugal an attractive option for brands seeking manufacturers and fertile ground for homegrown footwear labels.
Portugal’s success in the footwear industry can be attributed to several factors, including abundant access to prime raw materials like sumptuous leather and premium textiles, as well as the export-driven mindset that propels Portuguese shoemakers onto the global stage. If you’re on the hunt for well-made, affordable footwear, Portuguese-made shoes might just be the answer. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to 10 must-know Made-in-Portugal footwear brands for men.
Myrqvist
Myrqvist is a Swedish footwear brand founded by Sebastian Öhrn in 2014. The brand is deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, as reflected in its name, derived from a small Swedish village. Myrqvist offers a diverse collection of classic and contemporary footwear styles, including Oxford and Derby shoes, loafers, and boots – all meticulously handcrafted in Portugal. Each pair is constructed with premium details, such as full-grain leather and Goodyear-welted soles, ensuring both style and durability over the years.
JAK
JAK is a Portuguese brand that specializes in well-made, reasonably priced sneakers. The brand’s design philosophy emphasizes understated versatility, resulting in minimalist shoes with few details and little to no visible branding. These characteristics make JAK’s sneakers a valuable addition to your shoe collection, as they can be effortlessly paired with a wide range of outfits, offering great value for their quality and aesthetics.
Oliver Sweeney
British luxury footwear brand Oliver Sweeney is known for splitting its production between Italy and Portugal, with many of its best men footwear crafted in the latter. Founded by Oliver Sweeney himself in 1989, the brand has established a reputation for high-quality, stylish shoes and accessories. Each pair of shoes undergoes meticulous handcrafting using premium materials, blending traditional shoemaking techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
Axel Arigato
Founded in 2013, Sweden’s Axel Arigato has become a leading label in premium sneakers and streetwear. The brand initially gained recognition for its simple leather kicks, reminiscent of Common Projects. Over time, Axel Arigato diversified its designs, incorporating chunkier, sportier, and more experimental styles. While the brand produces shoes in various European locations, the vast majority are handcrafted in Porto, Portugal, maintaining the commitment to quality and style.
Russell and Bromley
Established in 1873, Russell and Bromley boasts a rich history of producing high-quality footwear that marries traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. This renowned British brand offers a wide range of shoes, including boots, loafers, and Derbies, crafted from premium materials. Several of Russell and Bromley’s styles are handcrafted in Portugal, exemplified by the Laceway sneaker, featuring a clean minimalist design, lightweight rubber sole, and a timeless aesthetic.
LØCI
For individuals concerned about the environmental impact of their spending habits and wardrobe contents, LØCI offers an eco-conscious alternative. This up-and-coming label utilizes recycled, sustainable, and vegan materials to craft stylish and environmentally friendly shoes designed to complement a wide range of outfits while minimizing negative effects on the planet. Choosing LØCI means supporting sustainable and cruelty-free footwear.
Saye
Saye is another sustainable footwear brand you should have on your radar. The brand’s shoes are simple, stylish, and sustainably made, using eco-friendly recycled and organic fabrics. Saye is also committed to reforestation projects and offers a fully vegan range, ensuring cruelty-free products. The hero model, the Modelo ’89, made in Portugal, offers a contemporary take on a classic design.
Yogi
Launched in the 1990s, Yogi is a brand inspired by unconventional Earth and Roots shoes from the 1960s and 1970s, featuring a unique negative heel design. Yogi shoes prioritize both style and potential health benefits, with many of their popular styles based on the classic moccasin template, known for broad fits, pronounced stitching, and soft suede uppers. All Yogi shoes are handmade in Portugal, blending a distinctive look with Portuguese craftsmanship.
Diverge
Diverge offers a unique approach to sneakers. Rather than selecting a pre-made model off the shelf, customers are invited to customize every element of their sneakers, resulting in highly personalized footwear. Each pair is handcrafted to order in the brand’s Portuguese factory using high-end equipment and traditional shoemaking techniques. This approach ensures that your sneakers are one-of-a-kind and crafted with the utmost care.
Morjas
Morjas possesses a talent for fusing classic designs, traditional shoemaking practices, and contemporary touches to create a range of footwear that is both exciting and timeless. Their collection includes loafers, boots, dress shoes, and minimalist sneakers, all made by hand in Portugal. Regardless of the style, all Morjas shoes share a commitment to quality and attention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship of the Iberian peninsula’s finest makers.
In conclusion, Portugal has firmly established itself as a hotspot for footwear manufacturing, offering a blend of artisanal excellence and affordability. These 10 Made-in-Portugal footwear brands for men showcase the diversity, quality, and craftsmanship that this country brings to the global footwear market. From classic and timeless designs to sustainable and customizable options, Portuguese-made shoes offer an array of choices for the modern man who values both style and substance in his footwear.
