How to Buy Espadrilles Online: A Smart Shopper's Checklist

How to Buy Espadrilles Online: A Smart Shopper’s Checklist

The espadrille is a footwear icon—a perfect blend of rustic charm and effortless chic. It whispers of sun-drenched holidays, coastal walks, and breezy summer evenings. But purchasing this deceptively simple shoe online can feel like a gamble. With so many styles, materials, and brands, how do you ensure the pair that arrives at your door is the perfect fit for your feet and your wardrobe? This is your definitive guide to becoming a savvy online espadrille shopper. We’ll cut through the noise with a clear, actionable checklist designed to help you make a confident, well-informed purchase.

1. Decoding the Espadrille: Understanding Your Options

Before you can shop, you must know what you’re looking for. The term “espadrille” encompasses a wide range of styles, each with its own unique purpose. Identifying the type that suits your needs is the first, most critical step.

Flat Espadrilles: The Everyday Staple

This is the classic, the original. Flat espadrilles are the quintessential summer slip-on. They are designed for comfort and ease, making them perfect for casual day-to-day wear.

Closed-Toe Flats: Think of a simple, canvas-covered shoe with a braided jute sole. They can be worn with everything from cuffed jeans and shorts to light sundresses. These are your go-to for running errands, casual lunches, or a day spent exploring a city.
- Actionable Example: You’re planning a trip where you’ll be walking a lot but want to look stylish. A pair of striped closed-toe espadrilles provides all-day comfort and pairs effortlessly with various outfits.
Flat Sandals: This category includes styles with straps, from simple ankle straps to more intricate gladiator designs. They offer more security than a slip-on flat while still maintaining that relaxed espadrille vibe.
- Actionable Example: You’re looking for a shoe to wear to a beach barbecue. A pair of leather-strapped flat espadrille sandals will stay securely on your feet in the sand and look great with a linen dress or shorts.

Wedge Espadrilles: The Elevated Classic

Wedges add height and a touch of sophistication without sacrificing stability. The woven jute wedge heel is the defining feature, making them a popular choice for dressier occasions.

Low-Wedge Espadrilles: With a heel height of one to two inches, these provide a subtle lift. They are the perfect transitional shoe, taking you from a daytime event to an evening out with ease.
- Actionable Example: For a garden party, a pair of low-wedge espadrilles in a neutral tone offers more elegance than flats but won’t sink into the grass like stilettos.
High-Wedge Espadrilles: These heels can reach three inches or more and often feature lace-up ankle ties for a dramatic effect. They are ideal for special occasions where you want to make a statement.
- Actionable Example: Attending a summer wedding? A pair of high-wedge espadrilles with satin ribbon ties will complement a cocktail dress beautifully, providing height and a bohemian flair.
Platform Espadrilles: A hybrid of the flat and the wedge, these shoes have a platform sole that adds height evenly from heel to toe. They provide a modern, edgy look and are surprisingly comfortable for long periods of standing.
- Actionable Example: You’re going to a music festival and want to stand out. A pair of platform espadrille sandals with bold crisscross straps gives you height and style without compromising your ability to walk for hours.

Speciality Styles: Beyond the Basics

The espadrille design has been adapted into many other shoe types. Be on the lookout for these variations.

Espadrille Sneakers: A casual sneaker silhouette with the signature jute sole. They are perfect for a sporty-chic aesthetic.
Espadrille Mules: An open-back style that combines the ease of a slip-on with the structured look of a mule.

By zeroing in on the specific style you need, you can filter your online search and avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of options.

2. Sizing Sanity: The Ultimate Fit Guide for Online Shopping

This is where many online shoppers falter. Getting the fit right is paramount, especially with espadrilles, which often have unique constructions and materials that may not conform like a standard leather shoe.

Measure Your Feet, Literally

Do not rely solely on the size you wear in other brands. Shoe sizing is notoriously inconsistent. Instead, take a few minutes to measure your own feet.

Step-by-Step Measurement:
1. Place a piece of paper on a hard floor with one edge against a wall.
2. Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall.
3. Using a pencil, mark the tip of your longest toe (which may not be your big toe).
4. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper to your mark in both inches and centimeters.
5. Repeat this process for your other foot, as one foot is often slightly larger than the other. Use the measurement from the larger foot for your purchase.
Why It Matters: This simple process gives you a concrete number to reference against a brand’s specific size chart. Never assume a US 8 is the same as an EU 38 across all labels.

Scrutinize the Sizing Chart and Reviews

The product page is your best friend. Look for a detailed sizing guide from the brand.

Sizing Charts: A good brand will provide a chart that lists foot length in inches and centimeters and correlates it to their size. If you’re between sizes, the chart might recommend sizing up or down.
Customer Reviews: This is an invaluable resource. Read reviews for specific feedback on sizing. Look for comments like:
- “They run a full size small, I had to return for a size up.”
- “The canvas stretched out perfectly after a few wears, so the initial snug fit was ideal.”
- “The wedge style is narrower than the flats, so they pinch a bit.”
- “My usual size fit perfectly, true to size.”

Understand the Material’s Behavior

The fit of an espadrille is heavily influenced by the material it’s made from.

Canvas and Cotton Uppers: These materials will stretch and mold to your foot over time. It’s often recommended to purchase a pair that feels snug but not painfully tight at first. If they feel loose out of the box, they will likely become too big.
Leather and Suede Uppers: These also stretch, but more slowly. A secure, comfortable fit from the start is more important here. They will give a little but won’t become significantly larger.
Jute Sole: The jute itself is not flexible in the same way as a rubber sole. The sole’s length and width are fixed, so if it’s too small for your foot, it will be uncomfortable and cannot be stretched. This is why foot length measurement is crucial.

The “In-Between” Dilemma: Full Sizes Only

Many espadrille brands only offer full sizes.

Flat Espadrilles: If you’re a half size and buying a classic canvas flat, consider sizing down. The canvas will stretch to accommodate your foot, and a looser shoe is more likely to slip off.
Wedge Espadrilles: With a wedge, you need more stability. If you’re a half size, it’s often safer to size up. This provides extra length and prevents your toes from hanging over the edge, especially if the brand runs narrow. However, always consult the specific brand’s recommendations.

3. Material Matters: From Jute to Jacquard

The longevity, comfort, and function of your espadrilles are determined by the materials used. Don’t just look at the photo; read the description.

The Sole: The Heart of the Espadrille

The defining feature of the espadrille is its sole. The quality of this element dictates its durability and how well it handles different environments.

Jute: The traditional material. It is breathable and lightweight. However, it’s susceptible to moisture. A 100% jute sole without any protection will degrade and lose its shape if it gets wet.
Rubber Outsole: The gold standard for durability. Many modern espadrilles have a thin layer of vulcanized rubber on the bottom of the jute sole. This protects the jute from wear and tear, provides traction, and is a non-negotiable feature for any pair you intend to wear frequently or in climates where rain is a possibility.
- Actionable Example: When Browse product descriptions, look for phrases like “rubber-reinforced sole” or “protective rubber outsole.” This tells you the shoe is built to last beyond a single season.

The Upper: The First Impression

The upper material not only defines the look but also the feel and care requirements of the shoe.

Canvas: The most common and traditional material. It’s breathable, easy to care for (often spot-cleanable), and very versatile. Look for thick, high-quality canvas that won’t tear easily.
Suede: Adds a soft, luxurious feel. Suede espadrilles are a dressier option but are more delicate and require special care. They are not a good choice for rainy days or heavy use.
- Actionable Example: A suede espadrille mule in a deep jewel tone is a chic choice for an evening dinner, but you wouldn’t wear it on a dusty walk.
Leather: Provides structure, durability, and a polished look. Leather espadrilles can be a great option for a more refined style and are generally more water-resistant than canvas or suede.
Linen and Cotton: Similar to canvas but often lighter and more delicate. They are exceptionally breathable, making them perfect for hot weather.
Jacquard and Other Specialty Fabrics: These materials add texture and a unique visual interest. While beautiful, they may be less durable and can be harder to clean.

4. Assessing Quality from Afar: What to Look for in Product Photos and Descriptions

Buying online means you can’t physically inspect the shoe. Your job is to become a detective, using the information provided by the retailer to judge quality.

Scrutinize the Visuals

High-quality product images are a strong indicator of a reputable brand.

Zoom In: Use the zoom function on product photos. Look closely at the stitching where the upper meets the sole. On a well-made espadrille, the stitching will be tight, even, and consistent. Poor, loose, or crooked stitching is a red flag for shoddy craftsmanship.
Multiple Angles: A brand that is proud of its product will show it from every angle—the front, the back, a side profile, and a close-up of the sole. If you only see one or two generic photos, proceed with caution.
Lifestyle Shots: Do the shoes look good on a person? Do they appear to be holding their shape, or do they look flimsy?

Analyze the Product Description for Key Details

The text on the product page is just as important as the images.

Construction Details: Look for specifics about how the shoe is made. Phrases like “hand-stitched,” “made in Spain,” or “artisanal craftsmanship” suggest a higher level of quality and a nod to the shoe’s traditional roots.
Material Breakdown: The description should clearly state what the upper and the sole are made of. A vague description like “fabric upper” is a warning sign. Look for “100% cotton canvas” or “genuine leather.”
Country of Origin: A product’s country of origin can be an indicator of quality and craftsmanship. The espadrille has deep roots in Spain and France, and many of the highest-quality pairs still originate from these regions.

Be Wary of Vague Language and Generic Marketing

If a product description is full of buzzwords like “comfortable,” “stylish,” and “versatile” but lacks specific details about materials and construction, it’s probably trying to mask a low-quality product. A brand that stands behind its craftsmanship will have no problem providing concrete information.

5. The Checkout Countdown: Navigating Returns, Shipping, and Customer Service

Your job isn’t done after you click “add to cart.” A smart online shopper always plans for the possibility that the item might not be right.

Read the Return Policy—Every Single Time

This is non-negotiable. Before you enter your payment information, find and read the return policy.

Return Window: How long do you have to return the shoes? Is it 14 days, 30 days, or more? A longer window gives you peace of mind and time to try them on properly at home.
Return Shipping Cost: Is return shipping free, or will you have to pay for it? A generous return policy with free shipping makes the initial purchase a low-risk proposition.
Condition for Return: Most policies require the item to be unworn and in its original packaging. Try the shoes on indoors on a clean surface to ensure you don’t scuff the soles.

Understand Shipping Logistics

Shipping costs and delivery times can vary dramatically.

Shipping Costs: Don’t be surprised by a high shipping fee at checkout. Check this detail early in the process. Some brands offer free shipping over a certain order value.
Delivery Time: If you need the shoes for a specific event or trip, check the estimated delivery time. Some brands ship internationally, which can take several weeks.

Research the Brand’s Reputation

A quick search can tell you a lot about a brand’s customer service. Look for reviews or forums where people discuss their experiences with the brand.

What to Look For:
- Are their customer service representatives responsive and helpful?
- Are returns processed quickly and without hassle?
- Do they stand by the quality of their products?

6. Style & Function: Matching Espadrilles to Your Wardrobe and Lifestyle

The final step is to make sure your choice fits your life. A beautiful shoe is a wasted purchase if it doesn’t align with your personal style or practical needs.

Wardrobe Integration

Think about the clothes you already own. What gaps are you trying to fill?

The Neutral Staple: A classic flat espadrille in a neutral color like beige, navy, or black is the most versatile option. It can be worn with jeans, shorts, skirts, and dresses.
The Statement Piece: A patterned espadrille, like a striped or floral design, can be a fun way to add personality to a simple outfit. Pair it with solid colors to let the shoes shine.
The Formal Option: A high-wedge espadrille in a quality material like suede or leather can be the perfect shoe for more formal summer events.

Lifestyle Considerations

Think about where and how you’ll be wearing these shoes.

Travel and Vacation: If you’re buying espadrilles for a trip, consider their packability and versatility. A pair of flats is lightweight and takes up minimal space.
Walking and Comfort: For extensive walking, prioritize a style with a cushioned footbed and a secure fit. A pair with a backstrap or lace-up ties will offer more support than a simple slip-on.
Climate: The jute sole is not designed for wet weather. If you live in a rainy climate, a pair with a rubber outsole is essential. If you’re in a hot, humid place, a breathable canvas or linen upper is the most comfortable choice.

Your journey to buying the perfect pair of espadrilles online is now a guided, low-risk process. By following this checklist—from understanding the types of espadrilles to scrutinizing the product details and preparing for the logistics of online shopping—you empower yourself to make a purchase you’ll be thrilled with. You’re no longer just buying a shoe; you’re investing in a piece of style that will serve you season after season, and you’ve done it with confidence and knowledge.