Kleman

About

Summing Up Kleman: French Craftsmanship and Utilitarian Heritage Founded in 1945 by René Cléon, Kleman (a contraction of Cléon Manufacture) is a bastion of authentic French shoemaking. The brand's origins are rooted in post-war resilience; Cléon began modelling leather footwear while a prisoner of war, eventually establishing a workshop in La Romagne, Anjou. By the 1980s, Kleman became the official supplier for French public administrations, including the SNCF (railways), Air France, and the French army. This professional lineage defines their aesthetic: rugged, reliable, and functional. At Urban Industry, we value brands that bridge the gap between historic workwear and modern streetwear. Kleman’s commitment to local production, using European-sourced leathers and manufacturing entirely in their French factory, aligns with our ethos of offering curated, high-quality gear. The Padror and Major silhouettes represent the pinnacle of this "made in France" excellence, providing a raw, unisex aesthetic that has remained virtually unchanged for decades. How Does Kleman Stack Up: Technical Features and Design Kneipp-Stitched Construction : Kleman utilises a traditional Kneipp-stitching technique, particularly on the Padror , which secures the upper to the sole for enhanced durability and water resistance compared to standard cement-bonded shoes. European Cowhide and Grain Leathers : The uppers are crafted from premium Spanish and European bovine leathers, featuring heavy-duty grain textures on the Major model for increased abrasion resistance and a matte, utilitarian finish. Lugged Rubber Outsoles : Engineered for the grip requirements of French civil servants, the heavy-duty rubber soles feature deep lugs for traction on urban pavement and rural terrain alike. Eco-Conscious Components : Staying true to local sourcing, even the laces are woven within 10 kilometres of the Anjou workshop, while newer iterations often feature chrome-free or vegetable-tanned leather linings. T