Castilian shoes: where they come from and how to combine them

Is there a men's shoe that never goes out of style? The answer is YES, and these are the Castellanos shoes . Elegant, timeless, versatile, and with a classic touch, Castellanos are a must-have in the wardrobe of any man looking for comfort and fashion in his daily life. We'll tell you all about them: their origin, types, how to combine them, and how to care for them to keep them perfect for many years.

What are Castilian shoes?

Castilian shoes are a type of leather moccasin, traditionally made in Spain, characterized by their design. At Paco Rodríguez shoe stores, we have a large collection of men's castilian shoes , where you'll find a wide variety of models that combine tradition, quality, and style.

Although Castilian shoes may seem simple at first glance, their construction is an art : high-quality leather, durable stitching, and a last that guarantees comfort from the first use.

Their slip-on design, leather or rubber sole, and polished look make loafers one of men's favorite options for their looks.

Why are they called Castilian shoes?

The term "Castilian" refers to their place of origin: Castile, a historic region of Spain. Although they are now manufactured in different locations, their roots are deeply tied to the artisanal tradition of the workshops in this area. For decades, Castilian shoemakers specialized in the creation of this type of footwear, using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. Hence, the name has endured as a synonym for quality and elegance.

Main characteristics of Castilian shoes

Castilian shoes are distinguished by a series of details that make them unmistakable:

Material: Made of high-quality leather, although suede versions also exist.
Design: Closed, slip-on loafer with visible stitching on the instep.
Sole: can be made of leather (ideal for a more classic look) or rubber (for greater comfort and grip).
Color: The most traditional are black or burgundy, although they can now be found in a wide range of colors.
Comfort: Their ergonomic construction and flexible leather allow them to adapt quickly to the foot.

History of Castilian shoes: a brief look at their origins

The history of Castilian shoes dates back to the early 20th century, when moccasins inspired by English and American models, especially the classic penny loafer, began to be manufactured in Castile. Over time, Spanish artisans learned to add their own style and quality to these pieces, consolidating Castilian as a hallmark of footwear made in Spain.

For decades, castellanos have been a symbol of distinction, first as part of the school uniform and later as an accessory for any man. Today, they combine tradition and modernity, adapting to all types of styles and occasions.

What types of Castilian shoes are there?

Although at first glance they may all look the same, there are different variations of Castilian shoes to suit every personality and need, and our shoe stores have them all! On one hand, we find classic Castilian shoes , with a minimalist design, shiny leather, and leather soles. On the other hand, there are Castilian shoes with details like decorative tassels , models with masks, suede shoes, and options with more daring soles and finishes , in addition to a variety of colors to suit all tastes.

How to combine men's Castilian shoes?

The great advantage of Castilian shoes is their versatility. Depending on the style and the setting, you can combine them in many ways:

Formal look: Black or burgundy flats pair perfectly with gray, navy, or beige suits. Wear a white shirt and a leather belt for a perfect look.
Smart casual look: Wear them with chinos, a shirt, and a blazer. Ideal for the office or casual events.
Casual look: with skinny jeans or trousers and a linen shirt or polo shirt.
Preppy look: pair them with pleated pants, a V-neck sweater, and a shirt. A classic that never fails.

The best models of Castilian shoes for men

These are some of the most recommended models at Paco Rodríguez shoe stores:

Classic leather Castellanos in black or burgundy: ideal for those looking for a shoe that works for both the office and formal events.
Tasseled sandals: perfect for those who want a touch of distinction without sacrificing comfort.
Rubber-soled shoes: especially recommended for everyday wear and walking.
Castellanos in split leather or suede: a casual shoe that goes well with any style.
Chunky or thick-soled Castellanos: for those looking to modernize their look.

Care and maintenance of Castilian shoes

However, we advise you to take good care of your Castilian shoes so they last as long as possible. Therefore:

Moisturize your leather: Use creams specifically designed for leather and suede. This prevents the leather from cracking and maintains its natural shine.
Brush them regularly: a soft brush will remove dust and keep the texture clean.
Dry them properly: If they get wet, avoid direct heat sources like a hairdryer. Stuff them with paper to help them maintain their shape while they dry naturally.
Use a shoehorn: When putting on your shoes, using a shoehorn will prevent them from becoming deformed in the heel area.
Rotate your use: Don't wear the same pair every day. Rotating allows your leather to breathe and prolongs its lifespan.

Men's Castilian shoes are much more than just footwear: they embody history, tradition, and style. Perfect for both special occasions and everyday wear. And remember, in our shoe stores you'll find styles for all tastes, made with the highest quality to last for many years. We look forward to seeing you!