Paraboot Michael: the ugly shoe I can't stop wearing

These are great all-rounders (except for athletic use, of course).
I've worn these shoes for the last 5 years and I think I'll continue wearing them for a lifetime. When I first got them, reviews of them were difficult to come by. I hope this video helps in your decision making!
For those interested in the Michaels:
Sizing: wear your true size or go half a size down. These shoes run large; my feet are 27cm and relatively wide. I can wear both EU 42 (sockless or with dress socks) or 42.5 (dress socks or thicker socks) comfortably. They can be tight at the toe box at first. I wear Birkenstocks in 42, Nike/NBs in US 10.
Breaking them in: Expect a week of pain. They're really stiff when you begin wearing them; I washed mine with saddle soap and applied wax to soften them before committing to wear them. The heel pad tip works wonders... it elevates your foot so that it has less room to rub against your ankles.
Maintenance: A quick brush, some turpentine oil and a re-waxing does the job. I do this once every 2-3 months.
Note: if you own Paraboot Coraux, go half a size down.
If you have any questions, leave them in the comments!
Amazon links: amzn.to/3WDIjKK
Music: Epidemic Sound

[@Stridewise]

"they make your feet look like hooves" this is a great god damn video. I just bought some Avignons (a mainstream split toe derby) and am inhaling all the Paraboot vids I can find. Great work Martin

[@martinqui]

appreciate it mate! those and the chambords, eventually!!

[@ricahhh_9052]

welcome to RUclips Martin! always asking Sophie what you wear hahaha

[@mariachonaqui6054]

Just finished listening to your first podcast with Sophie….👏👏👏👏

[@gnatotto]

Awesome review. Very thoughtful advice on sizing! Is the stretch enough to say it’s a quarter size stretch? I tried on a 43 and it felt fine like true to my foot. The 42.5 was a bit cramped but if it stretched out a quarter size, it might be perfect. Appreciate any help!

[@martinqui]

thanks for the comment! i'd say get the 43, unless there's significant heel slippage. it's probably quarter size stretch tops!

[@gnatotto]

@@martinqui thank you! Man this sucks, really wish there were shops near me with the pair that I want (the collab with EG) but in the States, only a handful have them in 42.5 and it’s final sale /:

[@sneakerlogist]

@@gnatotto for Michaels i would think half size down is better, they fit wide. i wear US10 for nike and NB too, if your going for reims then half size up better. i am looking to buy another pair of MIchael in noir.. hard to find 41.5 always sold out

[@rcshoops]

Beautiful video and shoes. How wide are they in the toe box? They look like they are wider that the typical oxford/brogue dress shoe.

[@martinqui]

For me a bit tight (i’ve got wide feet and big toes…), but yes, still roomier than most oxfords!

[@Drownedinblood]

How did the price of these explode? $700 usd now.....

[@andrien0606]

do you reccomend online shopping in cettire? how about the shipping time?

[@martinqui]

My experience was fine, and i think the shipping was on time!

[@adrianwalker2833]

They are not ugly. I believe the style is called "Norwegian" and they are sturdy, no nonsense shoes. In particular apt when worn by a taller gentleman. They are informal shoes.

[@martinqui]

In my eyes they are perfect!

[@mariachonaqui6054]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@martinqui]

hi mom

[@mariachonaqui6054]

You’re amazing Martin…❤ 🥰

[@AA-dq5uo]

Except it’s not ugly 😂, it’s just complete matter of personal taste and preference. Some people don’t like brogues that don’t mean brogues are ugly …

[@martinqui]

as they say... beauty is in the eye of the beholder!