Avignon

The shoe combines formal and casual aesthetics, making it versatile for both dress and relaxed wear. Its distinctive "bout chasse" (split toe) design features five eyelets with an apron front, while the almond-shaped toe and modest volume create a refined appearance suitable for various styling contexts.

The Avignon is characterized by its classic split toe derby construction, featuring five reinforced eyelets that house tonal cotton laces. The model's "bout chasse" design includes a distinctive central seam running from the vamp to the toe, creating the split toe effect that defines the style. The traditional fit incorporates an almond-shaped toe that contributes to the shoe's slim silhouette.

The apron front with split toe detailing provides a more architectural and structured appearance compared to the Michael or Chambord models. This design allows the Avignon to function as both a dress shoe and a casual option, with the U-tip providing visual interest while the modest volume maintains a refined aesthetic. The subtle interplay of materials and finishes across the various leather options contributes to the model's popularity among Paraboot's offerings.

The Avignon is hand-made in France using Norwegian welt construction, a method where the upper is stitched directly to the midsole and outsole. This construction creates a robust and long-lasting bond between components, providing excellent resistance to wear and tear. The visible stitching along the sole allows for greater movement and natural flexing of the shoe, delivering both durability and comfort.

The Norwegian welt construction makes the Avignon waterproof and enables the shoe to be resoled multiple times throughout its lifespan. The fully leather-lined interior provides breathability and a premium feel, while the construction method ensures the shoe maintains flexibility despite its robust build. Each pair is crafted from high-quality raw materials by artisans with specialized expertise in traditional shoemaking techniques.

The Avignon is offered in multiple leather options to suit different preferences and occasions. Available materials include waxy nubuck Gringo leather, which provides a unique texture offering both a refined, weathered appearance and durability. Grained leather versions deliver a more relaxed aesthetic, while smooth Lisse leather options present a classic dress shoe finish. The model is also produced in cordovan leather in bordeaux and noir colorways, as well as velours (suede) in smoky and noir variations.

The natural rubber sole is designated as "Glyph 2" and features a thinner specification compared to the Paratex sole used on the Chambord model. This sole construction provides excellent grip, flexibility, shock absorption, and slip resistance. The thinner profile of the Glyph 2 sole complements the slim upper design of the Avignon and reduces the burden on the foot during extended wear. All versions maintain the fully leather-lined interior construction regardless of the exterior leather choice.

The Avignon is designed with a comfortable fit and a traditional construction that delivers both structure and support for all-day use. The overall fit secures the heel properly while allowing natural foot movement. The brown grain leather develops increased suppleness over time while maintaining structural durability.

The Glyph 2 sole returns energy well and reduces strain on the foot, making the shoe suitable for those who walk extensively. The natural latex sole construction provides flexibility and shock absorption throughout daily wear. The leather upper materials evolve with wear, developing character while remaining functionally durable.

The Avignon is offered in UK half sizes, with all Paraboot shoes using this sizing system except for a few original models that use French sizing. The model runs with a single width option that tends to be wider than the typical North American average. However, the Avignon feels narrower than other Paraboot models due to its more tapered toe box design, which aligns with its slimmer overall aesthetic.

The general sizing recommendation is to take a UK size, which typically corresponds to one size down from a US Brannock measurement. Retailers advise against sizing down further to achieve a snugger fit, as this approach can compromise the arch measurement and overall comfort. The shoe performs better when worn with heavier, more substantial socks, which help optimize the fit within the generous last. For those accustomed to narrower American lasts, the Avignon's width may initially feel spacious, but the leather construction conforms to the foot shape over time.