Francis MaTeS: The Shoemaker Who Supported Spanish Athletes

Francis MaTeS, a young athlete at 17, believed that "to achieve good results, one needs shoes that fit well and offer good grip." He created spiked shoes for short-distance races. This single pair sparked Francis's passion and began his journey into sports footwear.

Two years later, in 1949, he began making sports shoes in earnest for other athletes. By the 1950s, Francis's shoes had gained significant acclaim in the Spanish athletics scene. In the 1960s, he expanded the factory, transforming the business into a sports shoe manufacturer. He continuously developed new models.

By the 1970s, his offerings extended beyond track and field to include variations for soccer, handball, weightlifting, and tennis. In the late 70s, he focused on developing shoes for long-distance running. In 1981, he organized the first marathon bearing his own name, the "Cursa de l’amistat," which is still held annually in November by his daughter, Mirna MaTeS.

Francis, the founder, passed away in 1991, but his daughter, Mirna, now leads the business. The Barcelona shop offers personal orders, attracting runners and local customers seeking a unique pair. We draw attention to these shoes, crafted with high-quality techniques and featuring classic designs that retain the atmosphere of their origins.