Shoes, glorious shoes! Did you know that Portugal’s shoemaking traditions go back hundreds of years? We didn’t either until we started noticing all of the high-quality shoe shops around Lisbon.

Initially, shoemaking in Portugal was a small-scale craft, practiced by skilled artisans in family-run workshops. In many small Portuguese villages, they developed their skills using premium leather and other raw materials. Over time, these workshops evolved into larger enterprises, especially during the Industrial Revolution when mechanization allowed for increased production.

Today, Portugal is one of the world’s leading footwear producers, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and sustainable practices. The northern region, particularly around the cities of Porto and Guimarães, is recognized as the heart of the Portuguese shoe industry, hosting numerous factories and design studios.

Portugal Makes a Global Impact

In recent decades, Portuguese footwear brands have gained international acclaim. The industry’s commitment to quality and sustainability has attracted global consumers, with many brands exporting a significant portion of their products. Portugal’s shoemakers also emphasize ethical production, using environmentally friendly materials and adhering to fair labor practices. This combination of heritage, innovation, and responsibility has positioned Portuguese shoes as a symbol of excellence in the global market.

Portugal’s rich shoemaking heritage is exemplified by several brands that have gained both national and international recognition for their quality, design, and craftsmanship. Here are six prominent Portuguese shoe brands, each with a unique history and presence in Lisbon, Porto, and across the country. Be sure to look out for them the next time you visit Portugal.

1. Luís Onofre

Established in 1999, Luís Onofre offers “handmade shoes with a sould” and is synonymous with luxury and elegance in footwear and accessories. The brand is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and use of premium materials. They offer classic shoes for men or boots, sandals, and shoes for women.

Lisbon – Avenida da Liberdade 247, Lisboa, Portugal
Other Locations – Luís Onofre’s products are available in select high-end retailers throughout Portugal.

2. Carlos Santos

Founded in 1942, Carlos Santos Shoes has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality men’s footwear. The brand is distinguished by its commitment to traditional shoemaking techniques, including the Goodyear Welted system, which ensures durability and comfort.

While Carlos Santos does not operate standalone stores, their products are available through two luxury shoe retailers in Lisbon and Porto, on their website, and in many retailers around the world. The three locations where you can purchase their shoes in Portugal are as follows:

Lisbon – Rosa Teixeira, Avenida da Liberdade 204
Porto – Rosa Teixeira, Avenida da Boavista, 3523; Marques Soares, R. das Carmelitas, Porto

3. Ambitious

Founded in 2008 in Guimarães, Ambitious is a footwear and lifestyle brand that emerged from a 30-year family legacy in shoemaking. The brand’s in-house production facility enables precise quality control and design experimentation, while its focus on technological innovation and manufacturing excellence has established Ambitious as a recognized name in both men’s and women’s footwear. 

It is best to shop online for Ambitious shoes in order to access its full line of products.

4. Foreva

Established in 1984, Foreva is a 100% Portuguese footwear brand proud to be part of a growing industry that is getting more recognition on the international stage. It opened its first store on Rua Guerra Junqueiro in Lisbon and now has shops in major Portuguese urban centers.

Lisbon – Campo Pequeno Shopping Mall, Campo Pequeno 135
Porto – Largo de Ferreira Lapa 887, Rua dos Clérigos 90, Porto, Portugal
Other Locations – Foreva has numerous stores nationwide, primarily in shopping malls, including locations in the Azores and Madeira.

5. Parfois

Founded in 1994, Parfois is a Portuguese brand specializing in women’s accessories, including shoes, handbags, and jewelry. The brand has expanded internationally and is known for offering trendy designs at affordable prices.

Lisbon Stores – There are multiple locations throughout the city including Colombo Shopping Center and Rua Augusta 146.
Porto Store – Rua de Santa Catarina 95-97, Rua dos Clérigos 54, Porto
Other Locations – Parfois operates numerous stores across Portugal and internationally.

6. As Portuguesas

As Portuguesas brings together Portuguese heritage and environmental consciousness as it prioritizes sustainability at every step. Based in Portugal, the brand distinguishes itself through its innovative use of cork and rubber soles combined with recycled materials. This helps it to achieve a negative carbon footprint while supporting local economies.

The company’s commitment to sustainability extends from their manual cork extraction process to their eco-friendly packaging and marketing materials. Cork extraction is done entirely by hand and no trees are cut in the crafting of the shoes.

You can find boots, trainers, sandals, and flip flops from As Portuguesas in multiple locations across the country, especially in shops specializing in cork, but the shop does not have its own storefront. You can also purchase the shoes online here.

7. Fly London

Fly London was created in the UK 1994, but it is owned by Fortunato O. Frederico & Ca Lda and has its head office and production in Portugal. Their motto, “Always Progressive, Never Conventional” reflects their commitment to unique designs and comfort. They initially started out as a shoe brand but have since extended their range to bags and sunglasses as well.

Lisbon – Avenida da Liberdade 49A
Porto – Rua dos Clérigos 90 92
Other Locations – Fly London products are available in various retailers and their own stores across Portugal and internationally. You can shop online here.

If the Shoe Fits

The Portuguese footwear industry continues to evolve as it adapts and thrives in the competitive global market while staying true to its artisanal roots. As these brands expand their international presence, they carry forward the legacy of Portuguese shoemaking excellence. Now that you know some of Portugal’s quality shoe brands, why don’t you check them out the next time that you’re in Portugal or get online and deliver Portuguese quality straight to your door?