Espadrilles, or as they are originally named, Espardenyes, are very comfortable flat, and sometimes high heeled, or wedge sole shoes.
Espadrilles are identified by their canvas or cotton fabric uppers and flexible soles, manufactured from Esparto rope.
Espadrilles come in a huge variety of designs and colors today, and have become a particularly loved fashionable shoe type.
Though in this article we are mainly going to look at the Espadrille as a comfortable walking shoe, and the features for you to consider.
Espadrille History
The Espadrille was first documented in 1322 where it was described in its Catalan name, Espardenya, referring to a shoe made with Esparto, which is a tough and wiry Mediterranean grass.
Espadrilles have been made in France in the Occitania region, as well as all over Spain, where they were generally used as footwear for peasants.
As described the original espadrille has a Canvas upper with the toe and vamp that are cut into one piece, and then seamed to the rope sole ate the sides.
Though the Espadrille in the early days featured the Esparto sole, JUTE has since come into play, as a more durable, and breathable option for the sole.
The Espadrille has a very complex design, which requires extra attention to detail, therefore their quality and craftsmanship are excellent compared to other shoe types.
Espadrilles Today
Once only peasant footwear, today Espadrilles are a high Fashion, and very comfortable shoe worn by millions of men and women alike.
The variety in colors, designs, and materials used for this style of shoe has also advanced and become much more generous and vast.
You can likewise no choose an espadrille in a flat, wedge sole or high heel type shoe, with an open or closed-toe design.
The Closed espadrille style, with a durable rubber outsole and comfort footbed, has similarly become an ideal in walking shoe, that looks casual, feels comfortable, and is highly durable.
Main Espadrille Characteristics and Comfort Features
- A Midsole manufactured from Jute or traditional Esparto material.
- A comfortable and cushioned insole.
- A durable rubber outsole that offers good traction.
- Canvas or Cotton upper construction that is breathable and comfortable.
- Moisture-wicking Pig Skin or Suede lining to keep your feet dry.
- Patterned or grooved outsole for walking on slippery surfaces.
- Lace-up ankle straps for a secure fit.
- Breathable sole and upper material construction.
- Color varieties and options.
- High wedge sole, platform sole, or flat sole.
- Open sandal design or a closed slip on design.
Reviews: Best Espadrilles for Walking
BOBS from Skechers Women's Highlights-Set Sail Flat, Natural Sail, 5 M US - Flexpadrille for Walking
The Bobs Flexpadrille from Skechers is the perfect Espadrille for walking, as it features many comfort and support characteristics that are ideal for shock absorbency and cushioning.
Top Features:
- Pure and comfortable fabric uppers that are breathable and soft against the skin, with a closed toe design and closed heel.
- A slight one inch platform in the traditional espadrille style.
- Jute wrapped wedge and goring at the vamp.
- A high traction rubber outsole and cushioned footbed for comfort.
- Very comfortable and flexible design.
- Available in a large range of color options.
Escala - Ash EU41 - Walking Espadrille
The Viscata Wedge Espadrille has a breathable and open design, with ankle straps for a better fit.
Top Features:
- A beautiful handcrafted design made in Barcelona Spain, to perfection in the idyllic original Espadrille style.
- Features a 2.5-inch wedge with a natural and durable rubber outsole as well as Jute wrapping.
- A soft padded insole for comfort and, cotton canvas uppers that are highly breathable and lightweight.
- Cute and feminine designed ankle laces for a snug fit. with a bit of flair.
- Available in plenty of fabulous and bright color options for your preference.
SODA Women's Open Toe Ankle Strap Espadrille Sandal (5.5 M US, Oat Cheet) - Ankle Strap Espadrille Walking Sandal
A fun and feminine styled Espadrille for every occasion, available in a large variety of vibrant colors, as well as some cool and stylish print options.
Top Features:
- Features some stunning pattern or color variety upper straps manufactured from high quality and durable, synthetic leather.
- A buckle closure ankle strap for a secure fit, with decorative detail.
- Solid espadrille Jute wrapped Wedge midsole with a synthetic patterned lug outsole, ideal for walking on all terrain.
- The footbed is slightly padded for support and comfort, as well as good shock absorbency.
- An open and classy sandal design that you can walk with and wear to more formal/smart occasions.
Casual Fashion Loafer Slip on Comfortable Shoes for Women & Ladies, Women's Classic Flat Espadrille Walking Shoes Grey - Slip on Espadrilles for Walking
In this TF Star Model range of casual walking Espadrilles, there are three options in; GREY, TAN and BLACK each with their own unique decorative details and a comfortable fit.
Top Features:
- Microfiber Suede uppers in a completely closed style slip-on shoe with a Jute midsole.
- The pigskin insole is lightweight and absorbs moisture to prevent odors, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
- Breathable and durable soles that offer excellent traction for better stability.
- Sift and comfortable cushioning in the footbed, to supp[ort your feet and add shock absorbency.
Jenn Ardor Espadrille Sneakers for Women: Hollow Canvas Casual Flats Classic Slip-On Comfortable Shoes (8 B(M) US (24.5CM), Red) - Espadrilles for Walking
These are the perfect Espadrille style sneakers for walking, featuring a breathable design with a non-slip rubber outsole.
Top Features:
- Non-Slip durable rubber outsole, which is perfect for walking on uneven and slippery surfaces or outdoor terrain.
- Soft Canvas uppers that are highly breathable, with a perforated design.
- A Cushioned insole for support and comfort with a breathable design.
- Slight platform for better stability, and a more sophisticated appeal.
- Available in many bright and neutral color options to choose from.
Sea Star Beachwear Beachcomber Espadrille Water Shoe Platinum 9 M - Beach Walking Espadrilles
Let’s face it, espadrilles are a summer shoe, they are light and breathable with that summery feel to them.
These are an excellent option for walking on the beach or in wet and rainy conditions and are similarly available in some lovely neutral and light colors as well as a few dark color options.
Top Features:
- Classic espadrille design that is completely water friendly made from neoprene.
- Flat and flexible neoprene uppers with a protective rubber deck sole for all-day wear.
- Lightweight and easy to travel with.
- Quick-drying design ideal for the beach or pool area.
- Available in a few neutral and light color varieties, as well as two dark colors.
- A great walking shoe particularly for wet or sandy terrain and in those hot summer days.
Clarks Women's Marie Pearl Loafer, navy nubuck, 085 M US - Espadrille Style Walking Shoe
One of the best espadrille Style model walking shoes that I have come across so far is the Clarks Marie pearl, available in many color options to choose from.
Top Features:
- Soft leather uppers are available in a few color options.
- A durable TPR rubber outsole.
- Comfortable and removable Ortholite footbed.
- The entry features stretch gore for easy on and off.
Women's Black Mesh Slip On Loafer Casual Flats Walking Espadrille Sneakers - Espadrille Walking Sneakers
A lightweight and comfortable pair of Espadrille style walking sneakers from LitFun.
Top Features:
- Features a durable high traction rubber outsole ideal for walking.
- The soft textile uppers are lightweight and breathable.
- A memory foam cushioned insole for comfort.
- Enhanced airflow with mesh upper design.
Index Table: Top-Rated Espadrilles for Walking
