La Manual Alpargatera Photos
Recommended Reviews - La Manual Alpargatera
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The store opens at 10am and I was here around 11am on Thursday 12/14/2023. I was the only customer, but I am not complaining. They were making espadrilles inside the store and one of them came up as I entered the store. She was able to speak English as well and I tried on two sizes of the design that I liked. I wear mens US 11, she recommended EU 44. Tried it on, but I do have a wide feet and it was too tight. She did mention that over time, espadrilles will stretch out, however, I chose to go one size up to EU 45. Fit perfect! Some of the designs were not available in my size but I was lucky enough to get the espadrilles that I liked. They are very comfortable and reasonably priced for hand-made shoes. Can get tax refund at the airport as well! But I recommend to get the refund to the credit card if paying with a card. The store must be very popular to Korean tourists as well. Store owner was able to speak somewhat Korean! It was interesting but yet good shopping experience.
My advice to you is arrive here early or don't at all. They observe siesta, so I came early to be there for reopening after siesta. I waited for about 30 minutes and was the first one waiting. They have such an astounding reputation. Soon, more people came trickling near me. Once they opened, it. was. absolute. madness. Some people weren't so gracious and cut me, but I don't like to lose my cool, so I just shot a look of contempt and moved on. They give you a number, sort of like at a deli counter, and that's the order in which you'll be helped. So you better pick out what shoes you like quickly! I chose a few espadrilles I liked, but the tricky thing is I'm usually a 5.5, and they don't make half sizes. The woman was accommodating and helped find a perfect fit, since no one shoe fits the same. I found my favorite espadrilles and left happy. Beware, this store is not for people who are claustrophobic and dislike crowds. It's like Black Friday!
The lure of this place is the price (10 euros for a pair of basic flat espadrilles) and the fact that its handmade. Located in the gothic district (yelp address is entirely correct), this place is on a small street and easy to miss. However the owner sits outside making espadrilles to entice visitors to check it out. There were 3 people working that day (all related). They don't move onto the next customer until the customer they're helping is done and ready to pay. Therefore you just sit there and wait your turn. I'd recommend you know what shoes you want to try on so you're ready to tell them what you want. They speak limited English but I got lucky and the granddaughter of the owner was able to help me out since I had a flight that evening and limited time to try to explain what I was looking for. I ended up buying 2 pairs - a basic flat one and one that had two tones that allows you to wrap a ribbon around your ankle. Both purchases were around $45. She told me that the shoes stretch out so I went with my normal European size (the size I usually purchase for high heels). Overall very happy with my purchase and I might come back next year and will def pay this shop a visit. Also makes for great presents.
I saw great reviews on this place and decided to check it out while I was in Barcelona. I can definitely tell you I wasn't disappointed! I got two pairs of espadrilles from this place, one pair of flats (12 euros) and a pair of wedged heels (19 euros). You can also see someone sitting there hand-make the shoes right before your eyes. The sales experience was really great too, because it was one on one. You go in, you get a number, and when you get called there is a salesperson that is with you the whole time to help you find your perfect size, give you suggestions, etc. They will stay with you until you are ready to check out. Definitely check this place out if you are looking for a fair priced, unique pair of espadrilles. I went down the street to look at costs in a similar store and it was maybe double if not more. So you're getting your money's worth here for sure!
This delightful espadrille superstar is an Instagram dream. Jammed with colorful selections of espadrilles, the staff are accommodating and friendly. With so many to drool over, it's hard to pick just one pair. It's a unique gift to bring back these comfortable and stylish shoes. Go, have a look and try them on!
What a fun experience. We showed up at 4:20.... about 10minutes after they reopen after lunch. We ended up being 18th in line (numbers are handed out as you enter) only took about 20 minutes until our turn, enough time to look at all the styles and decide which ones we liked best. My son ended up with a handsome pair of men's shoes for €50 and my daughter with large feet (size 41-42) hand only a few styles to choose from but fell in love with the ones she got anyway at €38. They fit them to your feet and you can expect a snug fit as they will stretch out a bit with wear. standard style was €12 but so many cute styles. Love that they are handmade and you can always have them made to order if they do not have the color you choose if you are willing to wait a day or two for pick up. Great souvenir that you get to wear and enjoy.
Word on the street is La Manual Alpargatera makes the best espadrilles in the world. I have no frame of reference being that I typically wear Nikes, but so far I have to imagine the claim runs true. The process for getting a pair is somewhat maddening. It's like a meat market for footwear. But once you've got a dedicated salesperson assisting you, it's quite accommodating. And the shoes? Well, I've received nothing but compliments every time I wear them around New York City. For $35, that's a small price to pay for a one of a kind, handmade pair of shoes. The hours are a little funky, but so are most of Barcelona's shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Great selection of shoes ^_^ I bought several pairs of shoes from different stores, when I was in Barcelona, & 1 of my fave pairs turned out to be the low espadrille wedges I bought from La Manual Alpargatera. Basically, I was looking for a somewhat fashionable pair to wear that won't make my feet hurt in different places, after walking 3, 4 hours or so, & the wedges I bought from La Manual turned out to be that pair. My only regret is that I didn't buy these lovely black espadrille wedges sooner, so I was pretty much stuck wearing comfy yet unfashionable shoes throughout my trip, hehe. It's true what the other reviewers say, that they won't help you until they're done helping someone get their pair of shoes, at La Manual. That's fine, though. When I asked for a specific pair of wedges, the girl got me the pair I wanted in my size, in 2 different colors, plus another pair that was somewhat similar in design, shown to me as an option. She was really nice. My pair of low espadrille wedges, I only bought for €18, I think it was on sale, but as I Google the history of the store (it dates back to the 1940's, wartime), I'm finding out that others managed to get 3 pairs for a total of €20. If I had more luggage space, I definitely would've bought maybe 2, 3 pairs more from LMA. Love their shoes. They also sell purses, belts, handmade leather stuff, I think. As with any pair of shoes, not all pairs I tried, I felt would turn out to be comfy after walking a few hours, so if you're looking for walking shoes, make sure you get a good pair that won't leave your feet bleeding in specific places. This was what happened to me. Hehe.
All the reviews telling you to stop into La Manual Alpargatera while on a Gothic Quarter shopping spree are NOT to be overlooked. It's everything this flats-loving shoe-addict could want. Comfy, hand-made, and in all sorts of colors and totally affordable. We purchased two of the more simple pairs in bright colors, a pair for my husband, a lace up fancy pair for me, and a unique pair that was almost boot like all for 135 Euros. The salesperson was very patient in helping us size them just right and teaching me how to lace them up.
Read up on the web about where to go for hand made shoes before coming. They seem to be the most popular place go to for your Spanish made espradrilles. I was not disappointed. There are many styles to choose from and the prices are better than other "hand made" shoe stores. The girl working there was nice and even showed me how to tie one of the shoes with ribbons the traditional way. I tried about 7 or 8 different shoes (ranging in sizes) and she was patient with helping me with them. The shoes felt very comfortable when I walked around in the store with them, some styles were true to size while some I had to go down a size. I got 3 for myself and then another 3 pairs as gifts for family. They give you a little sheet about their history (the first "fashion" espradrilles store after the civil war in 1940). I also saw the shoes being made there which is really nice to see and experience!
1 year ago
6 months ago
The store opens at 10am and I was here around 11am on Thursday 12/14/2023. I was the only customer, but I am not complaining. They were making espadrilles inside the store and one of them came up as I entered the store. She was able to speak English as well and I tried on two sizes of the design that I liked. I wear mens US 11, she recommended EU 44. Tried it on, but I do have a wide feet and it was too tight. She did mention that over time, espadrilles will stretch out, however, I chose to go one size up to EU 45. Fit perfect! Some of the designs were not available in my size but I was lucky enough to get the espadrilles that I liked. They are very comfortable and reasonably priced for hand-made shoes. Can get tax refund at the airport as well! But I recommend to get the refund to the credit card if paying with a card. The store must be very popular to Korean tourists as well. Store owner was able to speak somewhat Korean! It was interesting but yet good shopping experience. read more
4 years ago
My advice to you is arrive here early or don't at all. They observe siesta, so I came early to be there for reopening after siesta. I waited for about 30 minutes and was the first one waiting. They have such an astounding reputation. Soon, more people came trickling near me. Once they opened, it. was. absolute. madness. Some people weren't so gracious and cut me, but I don't like to lose my cool, so I just shot a look of contempt and moved on. They give you a number, sort of like at a deli counter, and that's the order in which you'll be helped. So you better pick out what shoes you like quickly! I chose a few espadrilles I liked, but the tricky thing is I'm usually a 5.5, and they don't make half sizes. The woman was accommodating and helped find a perfect fit, since no one shoe fits the same. I found my favorite espadrilles and left happy. Beware, this store is not for people who are claustrophobic and dislike crowds. It's like Black Friday! read more
The lure of this place is the price (10 euros for a pair of basic flat espadrilles) and the fact that its handmade. Located in the gothic district (yelp address is entirely correct), this place is on a small street and easy to miss. However the owner sits outside making espadrilles to entice visitors to check it out. There were 3 people working that day (all related). They don't move onto the next customer until the customer they're helping is done and ready to pay. Therefore you just sit there and wait your turn. I'd recommend you know what shoes you want to try on so you're ready to tell them what you want. They speak limited English but I got lucky and the granddaughter of the owner was able to help me out since I had a flight that evening and limited time to try to explain what I was looking for. I ended up buying 2 pairs - a basic flat one and one that had two tones that allows you to wrap a ribbon around your ankle. Both purchases were around $45. She told me that the shoes stretch out so I went with my normal European size (the size I usually purchase for high heels). Overall very happy with my purchase and I might come back next year and will def pay this shop a visit. Also makes for great presents. read more
I saw great reviews on this place and decided to check it out while I was in Barcelona. I can definitely tell you I wasn't disappointed! I got two pairs of espadrilles from this place, one pair of flats (12 euros) and a pair of wedged heels (19 euros). You can also see someone sitting there hand-make the shoes right before your eyes. The sales experience was really great too, because it was one on one. You go in, you get a number, and when you get called there is a salesperson that is with you the whole time to help you find your perfect size, give you suggestions, etc. They will stay with you until you are ready to check out. Definitely check this place out if you are looking for a fair priced, unique pair of espadrilles. I went down the street to look at costs in a similar store and it was maybe double if not more. So you're getting your money's worth here for sure! read more
This delightful espadrille superstar is an Instagram dream. Jammed with colorful selections of espadrilles, the staff are accommodating and friendly. With so many to drool over, it's hard to pick just one pair. It's a unique gift to bring back these comfortable and stylish shoes. Go, have a look and try them on! read more
9 years ago
What a fun experience. We showed up at 4:20.... about 10minutes after they reopen after lunch. We ended up being 18th in line (numbers are handed out as you enter) only took about 20 minutes until our turn, enough time to look at all the styles and decide which ones we liked best. My son ended up with a handsome pair of men's shoes for €50 and my daughter with large feet (size 41-42) hand only a few styles to choose from but fell in love with the ones she got anyway at €38. They fit them to your feet and you can expect a snug fit as they will stretch out a bit with wear. standard style was €12 but so many cute styles. Love that they are handmade and you can always have them made to order if they do not have the color you choose if you are willing to wait a day or two for pick up. Great souvenir that you get to wear and enjoy. read more
8 years ago
9 years ago
Word on the street is La Manual Alpargatera makes the best espadrilles in the world. I have no frame of reference being that I typically wear Nikes, but so far I have to imagine the claim runs true. The process for getting a pair is somewhat maddening. It's like a meat market for footwear. But once you've got a dedicated salesperson assisting you, it's quite accommodating. And the shoes? Well, I've received nothing but compliments every time I wear them around New York City. For $35, that's a small price to pay for a one of a kind, handmade pair of shoes. The hours are a little funky, but so are most of Barcelona's shops, restaurants, and cafes. read more
Great selection of shoes ^_^ I bought several pairs of shoes from different stores, when I was in Barcelona, & 1 of my fave pairs turned out to be the low espadrille wedges I bought from La Manual Alpargatera. Basically, I was looking for a somewhat fashionable pair to wear that won't make my feet hurt in different places, after walking 3, 4 hours or so, & the wedges I bought from La Manual turned out to be that pair. My only regret is that I didn't buy these lovely black espadrille wedges sooner, so I was pretty much stuck wearing comfy yet unfashionable shoes throughout my trip, hehe. It's true what the other reviewers say, that they won't help you until they're done helping someone get their pair of shoes, at La Manual. That's fine, though. When I asked for a specific pair of wedges, the girl got me the pair I wanted in my size, in 2 different colors, plus another pair that was somewhat similar in design, shown to me as an option. She was really nice. My pair of low espadrille wedges, I only bought for €18, I think it was on sale, but as I Google the history of the store (it dates back to the 1940's, wartime), I'm finding out that others managed to get 3 pairs for a total of €20. If I had more luggage space, I definitely would've bought maybe 2, 3 pairs more from LMA. Love their shoes. They also sell purses, belts, handmade leather stuff, I think. As with any pair of shoes, not all pairs I tried, I felt would turn out to be comfy after walking a few hours, so if you're looking for walking shoes, make sure you get a good pair that won't leave your feet bleeding in specific places. This was what happened to me. Hehe. read more
8 years ago
All the reviews telling you to stop into La Manual Alpargatera while on a Gothic Quarter shopping spree are NOT to be overlooked. It's everything this flats-loving shoe-addict could want. Comfy, hand-made, and in all sorts of colors and totally affordable. We purchased two of the more simple pairs in bright colors, a pair for my husband, a lace up fancy pair for me, and a unique pair that was almost boot like all for 135 Euros. The salesperson was very patient in helping us size them just right and teaching me how to lace them up. read more
Read up on the web about where to go for hand made shoes before coming. They seem to be the most popular place go to for your Spanish made espradrilles. I was not disappointed. There are many styles to choose from and the prices are better than other "hand made" shoe stores. The girl working there was nice and even showed me how to tie one of the shoes with ribbons the traditional way. I tried about 7 or 8 different shoes (ranging in sizes) and she was patient with helping me with them. The shoes felt very comfortable when I walked around in the store with them, some styles were true to size while some I had to go down a size. I got 3 for myself and then another 3 pairs as gifts for family. They give you a little sheet about their history (the first "fashion" espradrilles store after the civil war in 1940). I also saw the shoes being made there which is really nice to see and experience! read more
10 years ago
This is a must visit spot in Barcelona. At first, I saw plenty of people on naver blogging about this place. I went on a busy Saturday afternoon, but it didn't take too long (less than half an hour) after I grabbed my ticket and one of the staff dedicated his attention to me. The prices are very affordable and I've received a lot of compliments wearing their espadrilles back in Toronto. read more
9 years ago
9 years ago
15 years ago
10 years ago
10 years ago
Such nice store owners! This is one of the older handmade espadrilles shops in Barcelona. They were closed on Sunday, but since it was the only day my brother could make it, they agreed to meet him there and allow him to shop while they did their weekend store cleaning. Basic handmade espadrilles start at 12€. The fancier materials, colors, styles go upwards of 45€. They will help you with sizing and the fit and also tell you a history of the shoes and the store, which makes it fun. read more
9 years ago
8 years ago
11 years ago
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More info about La Manual Alpargatera
Carrer d'Avinyó, 7
08002 Barcelona
Spain
Barri Gòtic
Directions
933 010 172
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.lamanualalpargatera.com
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From the Business
La Manual Alpargatera Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - La Manual Alpargatera
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
3 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
15 years ago
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7 years ago
La Manual Alpargatera - shoes - Updated May 2026
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