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Workshop offering exciting visits to discover the artisanal manufacture of espadrilles in Idaux-Mendy.
Mauléon in Soule is the world capital of handcrafted espadrille. Why espadrille in and around Mauléon? The espadrille was designed and manufactured in the Basque country from the 18th century onwards by hemp and linen craftsmen, and emerged as an economic and social phenomenon around 1850. Armaïté takes its name from its 2 founders, Armand and Maïté since 1979. Having earned the title of Master Craftsmen thanks to their know-how, they passed on their passion and methods to Pascale (3rd generation). Unique in its execution, with jute for the soles, a guarantee of quality and durability, 100% cotton canvas dyed to exacting standards, and creativity for the shapes and patterns. The workshop opens its doors for a fascinating tour of artisanal espadrille manufacturing: discover their trade and all the stages involved in creating a pair of espadrilles, machine-sewn according to the specific know-how of Maulé, and hand-sewn for wedge models. In this factory outlet, you'll find traditional espadrilles (more than 60 colors available, with new ones added every year), a winter collection - the 1st espadrille in "Euspattak" wool, warm in winter and cool in summer, made in partnership with the Iletegia workshop, which valorizes the wool sheared from Basque sheep - and accessories: bags, purses... the fruit of their imagination and creativity. It's a great place to note down and discover during your stay in the Basque Country and Soule.
Further information
Opening time and information on ARMAÏTÉ ESPADRILLES
Open Monday to Thursday: 8h/12h-13h/17h, Friday 8h/11h (until 17h in summer). Guided tour of the workshop by appointment: €4. Direct sales in the store and online boutique. Factory prices from €9 (pair of plain espadrilles).
Message from Management
Armaité specialises in the handcrafted manufacture of espadrilles, near Mauléon in the Basque Country and we are opening a factory shop with the possibility of visiting the company.
ARMAITE is one of the companies that contribute to perpetuating French excellence by bringing this forgotten craft to life. It is registered with the Chamber of Trades and Crafts. Mr Pérez, the creator of the company, obtained the title of master craftsman in 2000.
The manufacture of Mauléon espadrilles is unique in the world: the espadrilles are machine-stitched, which adds three typical Mauléon work stations: the gluing station for the upper, the sole and the assembly.
Pascale PEREIRA, 3rd generation sandal maker, was trained by her father, a master craftsman, himself trained by his father. She in turn passes on this know-how by training each employee herself as no school teaches the sandalier trade.
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