It is probably not the first sector that comes to mind when you think of Tenerife, but the truth is that leather in the Canary Islands is one of the most important traditional trades. Even with the crisis we have been through, both economic and sanitary, it continues to move forward and, if we add to that that obtaining raw materials in the Canary Islands is not at all simple because there are only connections by sea or air, it is even more admirable. The group of professional craftsmen is very varied and work in various fields such as leather, saddlery, shoe making, making jackets and embossing. 

As a peculiarity of these activities, we can highlight how expensive and manual the manufacturing process is, which results in superior quality and a practically unique product, being personalized. This would be unworkable without masters like the ones we have, but what is the origin of this trade in the Canary Islands and USA? Enter with us in its history.

Leather shoes in the Canary Islands

The origins of footwear in the Canary Islands date back to the 16th century, a time when choosing was not an option and even less if you were a low-income person: there were certain models and those more ostentatious or with more decoration could only be acquired by the upper class, as a status symbol. Although some of these shoes might seem simple (others the opposite), the fabric used was very influential when it came to lowering or increasing their price, in addition to the type. 

One of them was the Borceguises, used mainly in the Middle Ages. These were made with thin, soft, flexible skin that covered the leg up to the knee. Because of their characteristics, it was very difficult to fit them, so they needed some tool to facilitate the task. 

Other typical footwear were boots and booties, similar to the former in shape, but made from stiff leather. At first, their use was restricted to men, since they were the ones who traditionally went to the fields to work or to ride horses, but later they began to develop female models. 

Of course, the traditional shoe was made with different types of leather, but also with fabrics such as velvet, felt, etc.

And finally, the slippers: they were made with a padding, leather or velvet, which had a cork sole without heel. It used to be used alongside the Borceguises, for example.

Of course, throughout history there have been many more types and models such as sandals, slippers, leggings, espadrilles... to modern times, having an enormous variety.

Origins of shoes in USA

Footwear tells a lot of people’s history. Since time immemorial the population has worn shoes in order to protect their feet, forming part of their life.

Unlike the Canary Islands, one of the most emblematic shoes in the United States are cowboy boots, but the origin of this garment dates back to a time ago. 

It all began with the first settlers who brought from England supplies of footwear and useful tanned leather. And as it is natural for settlers in need of footwear, they acquired Indian loafers made of suede. 

Today we find it difficult to understand the circumstances that might arise for the first shoemakers to establish their industry in the country. First, we have to understand that the colonies were scattered along the Atlantic coast and, second, that the ocean prevented them from easily reaching their supply center in England.

If we observe the footwear of that time certainly the king for years was the cowboy boots, but what do we know about this footwear? Leather boots have come a long way, from the first cowboys to their popularity in the cinema and the subsequent conquest of the catwalks.

These boots were originally designed for work. Although they can be found of many different materials, they were mainly made with cowhide or some exotic skin such as ostrich, crocodile or snake.

In the mid-19th century, people wore simple but sturdy boots to feel comfortable and protected while performing difficult jobs. Later, boots of fine design were developed, used for special occasions. This type of footwear evolved and became a much more fashion related product. Finally, there came the influence of Hollywood and the growing popularity of Western films (creating the Western genre), along with other figures from the music world. 

Our beginnings in the leather sector

Like the Canary Islands and the United States, we also had a start in the world of leather shoes. Our history dates back to the year 2000, about 20 years ago. 

It all began with a tannery store that had existed for a lifetime in Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands. After a while, we decided to get the property and create what is now known as "Europieles". 

At first, we did not have all the distributions that we currently have the pleasure of providing, as we have come a long way since then. Our beginnings were focused solely on the sale of all kinds of skins, as well as material so that the shoemakers could work on their creations. 

Little by little we wanted to expand our range of items and offer more and more those that could facilitate the work of craftsmen or enrich their business or offer to their customers. In this way, we start by introducing shoe insoles and specific shoe care products, as well as leather. 

Later, we got into the orthopedic and podiatry sector. Finally, it has consolidated itself in our business model and has become one of our main pillars.

Today, we have a wide variety of product distributions and representations, both for shoe repair and orthopedic. Ortotex Medical, Flexor, Herbitas, Cauchos Andes... are just some of the brands we work with.

As it could not be otherwise, we have been adapting to the current times to provide the best possible service, implementing an online store in which our customers can make their purchases as easily as possible. 

Are you interested in seeing what we can offer you? Do not hesitate and  consult our store!