The Legacy of René Cléon: How a Shoe Maker's War Story Built Kleman Footwear
A Shoemaker’s Start: René Cléon’s Early Life and the War
René Cléon wasn't always the founder of a globally recognised shoe brand. His journey began long before Kleman Footwear existed. Originally a shoe and boot maker by trade, Cléon’s craftsmanship was something he inherited, working on leather from a young age. However, the trajectory of his life would change drastically when World War II broke out.
In 1940, during the Battle of France, Cléon found himself on the front lines. His life took a drastic turn when he was captured and taken as a prisoner of war. For five years, he would be held in a German POW camp. But instead of being defeated by his circumstances, René used his time in captivity creatively—modelling small leather shoes during his spare moments. It was in this unlikely setting that Cléon began to envision what would later become his legacy: his very own shoemaking workshop.
The Birth of Kleman: A Vision Realised
When the war ended in 1945, Cléon returned home, determined to turn his vision into reality. With a modest investment, he bought the first of his stitching and assembling machines. He also gathered a small group of apprentices, eager to learn the craft. From his family home in La Rogne, Cléon began his humble beginnings in shoemaking, specialising in Kneipp-sewn mixed models, a technique seen in the Padror Shoe and a technique known for its durability.
The workshop grew slowly but steadily. As the demand for high-quality footwear increased, Cléon made the decision to build a dedicated factory to meet the needs of his expanding business. Kleman, as we know it today, was born from these modest beginnings, fuelled by a passion for craftsmanship and a commitment to quality.
Generational Growth: The Family Legacy
By the time the 1970s rolled around, Cléon’s sons Jacques and Louis-Marie took over the reins of the family business. Their involvement marked the beginning of a new chapter for Kleman. Under their leadership, the brand not only maintained its dedication to quality but began to focus on innovation and expansion. Kleman’s reputation for producing durable, comfortable, and stylish footwear grew, as did its presence in both the French and global markets.
The family’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and sustainable production practices has remained at the heart of the brand’s identity. Even today, Kleman is known for its meticulous attention to detail, from handmade stitching to the careful selection of materials sourced from across Europe.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
From the beginning, Kleman Footwear has been dedicated to creating products that are as sustainable as they are stylish. Their commitment to sustainable production methods is evident in the materials they use and the way they craft each pair of shoes.
- Leather Sourcing: Kleman ensures all its leather is sourced from European tanneries, ensuring high standards of quality and environmental responsibility.
- Local Production: Even the laces, which might seem like an afterthought, are woven just 10 kilometers away from the workshop. Talk about keeping things local!
- Eco-conscious Innovations: The brand is constantly looking for ways to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining the level of craftsmanship that made it famous.
This dedication to sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s about crafting shoes that stand the test of time, both in terms of durability and style. Kleman has always strived to be ahead of the curve, creating footwear that’s both functional and eco-conscious.
Why Kleman Footwear Still Matters Today
Fast forward to today, and Kleman boots and shoes are beloved by those who appreciate quality, durability, and a touch of French style. Whether you're walking through the city, heading out on an adventure, or simply looking for a dependable pair of shoes, Kleman has you covered.
But Kleman isn’t just about function—it’s also about fashion. The brand’s sleek designs blend seamlessly with modern streetwear, making them just as popular in the world of fashion as they are in industrial settings. And let’s face it, there’s something undeniably cool about wearing a pair of shoes that carry decades of craftsmanship and history with them.
A Shoe Brand with a Rich History
Kleman Footwear’s story is one of resilience, vision, and craftsmanship. From René Cléon’s days as a POW in Germany to the family-run workshop in La Rogne, Kleman’s legacy continues to thrive. The brand remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and producing high-quality footwear that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re a fan of classic work boots or looking for something that brings both style and durability, Kleman has something for everyone.
Explore Kleman’s collection and experience the craftsmanship that has made this brand a household name in quality footwear.
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