KLEMAN footwear

KLEMAN is a distinguished French footwear brand with a heritage rooted in post-World War II craftsmanship. Founded by René Cléon in 1945, the brand's origins trace back to a small workshop in La Romagne, France. Cléon, who had spent years as a prisoner of war designing shoe models in his spare time, established his own manufacturing business upon his return. The brand name 'KLEMAN' was officially launched in 1988 as a contraction of 'Cléon Manufacture.'

Historically, the brand was renowned for producing rugged, functional footwear for French public administrations, including the national railway (SNCF), the French army, and fire departments. In recent decades, KLEMAN has transitioned into a global workwear and streetwear icon, maintaining its reputation for durability through its classic models like the PADROR derby. The brand remains a family-owned enterprise, currently managed by the third generation of the Cléon family.

KLEMAN takes great pride in its 'Made in France' label. All shoes are manufactured exclusively in the family's workshop in Anjou (Maine-et-Loire), France. The company emphasizes sustainable production, utilizing European-sourced leathers and ethical tanning processes. By keeping the entire production chain—from design to final assembly—within their historic French workshop, KLEMAN ensures high quality while preserving traditional French shoemaking expertise.