Everybody knows Camper shoes, but only few people are aware of their origin. In fact, the company’s headquarters are still located in Inca. Once the capital of the Mallorcan shoe industry, not much is left of this industry on the island. Yet some of the most traditional manufacturers still exist. And there are even exciting new brands. You’ll still find classic welted shoes for men and women, but also hiking boots, sneakers and all kinds of beautiful summer shoes that make you feel like you’re walking on sunshine. If you are looking for a pair of shoes on Mallorca, this is the ultimate guide to the best footwear brands and flagship stores.

1. Monge

Monge is a relatively young brand. Founded to preserve both classic footwear and traditional craft. If you love the feel of fine leather shoes, here’s where you find them, all hand-made on Mallorca. Business shoes for men, delicate sandals for women. Meet Pedro Monge in his new flagship store on Carrer Colom in Palma.

2. Carmina

Carmina, on the other hand, is the oldest artisan shoemaker on Mallorca. For more than 150 years the family business has manufactured footwear in Inca. Timeless pieces for women and men, welted and of the highest quality. From classic Oxfords to Monkstraps, from Mokassins to Chelsea boots. Precious footwear that you will wear for many years to come.

3. Lottusse

Since 1877, Lottusse has been producing leather pieces that maintain tradition and craftsmanship. The collections for both men and women are characterized by a light Mediterranean style and modern elegance. The family-owned company also offers accessories like purses, handbags, and belts. 

4. Nuar

Ariana Baltierrez, the founder of Nuar shoes, has revived classic Mallorcan weaving techniques and patterns for her beautiful sandals. Her signature model is the Senalla sandal, a lightweight, flat leather slider inspired by the traditional palm basket. There is also a selection of delicate wedge sandals in light shades to color the summer. 

5. Pla

Irene Peukes’ shoe designs are deeply inspired by the center of the island, known as El Pla. Hence the name of the brand. The unisex styles are handmade from jute fibers. Representing a unique combination of tradition, craftsmanship and sustainability. You‘ll find the timeless designs in many beautiful colors in the store in Sineu.

6. Yuccs 

At Yuccs its’s all about sneakers. Just a few years ago, the brand started with a plain model made of the finest merino wool. To keep your feet nice and warm on cold days and cool them down when they’re getting hot. Today, Yuccs offers sneakers for all seasons. Made of bamboo, of linen or grape skin in a sustainable production process.

7. Ben Calçat

At the narrow store in the heart of Sóller you can buy the shoes that were handmade in the adjoining workshop. The Mira family has been perfecting Porqueres for more than 50 years. Today, Ben Calçat is one of the few shoemakers that still fabricate the traditional Mallorcan shoe. It comes in countless colorful combinations, you can even have your own custom-made. 

8. Bestard

Established 1940 in Lloseta, Bestard soon developed into a well-established brand for mountain footwear. Recently, Bestard presented yet another innovation. In a joint venture with Sa Tenda Palma they developed boots with an extra layer of air cushion. Hand made on Mallorca. Hiking in the Tramuntana mountains has never been that comfortable before.

9. Alpargatería La Concepción

Espadrilles and avarcas are the classic Mediterranean summer shoes. Although almost a symbol of Mallorca, avarcas are originally from the smaller sister island Menorca. Where they are also still being manufactured. The Alpargatería La Concepción in Palma is one of the most popular shops with a large selection of Mallorca shoes.

10. The Shoe Museum 

Shoe lovers will also enjoy a visit at the Museu del Calçat i de la Indústria in Inca. Mallorca’s Museum of Footwear vividly tells the eventful history of the traditional craft and displays an exciting variety of different shoe models.

Read more about shopping in Palma, here.

Pictures: Featured image, Nuar, Ben Calçat, Bestard, Alpargatería La Concepción and Museu del Calçat: @martiblaufoto; title pic: Pla; other photos: courtesy of the respective brands