Made in Portugal: How Grumplets Shoes Are Made

Grumplets Originals are developed with experienced footwear makers in Portugal, where generations of shoemaking knowledge meet the small-run, detail-led approach we want for children's shoes.

Why Portugal?

Portugal has a long tradition of leatherworking and footwear production, with specialist factories and craftspeople experienced in building shoes from the last up. For Grumplets, that makes it possible to pay close attention to the parts parents may not see immediately: how a shoe flexes, how the upper is shaped, how the lining feels and how the proportions work on a small foot.

Built around growing feet

Our development process starts with the shape and construction of the shoe, not decoration alone. Depending on the style, we work toward flexible soles, roomier toe shapes, soft leather or suede uppers, comfortable linings and lightweight constructions that allow children to move naturally.

From there come the details that make a Grumplets shoe look like a Grumplets shoe: saturated color, embroidery, metallic leather, grosgrain, piping and storybook references used with restraint.

Small runs, considered details

We develop our own styles in relatively small production runs. That lets us make more distinctive choices in materials and color while continuing to refine fit and construction as the collection grows.

Our upcoming children's Mary Janes and children's loafers are part of this Portugal-made collection.

A note on the brands we carry

Not every shoe sold by Grumplets is made in Portugal. This page refers specifically to Grumplets Originals. Our partner brands maintain their own manufacturing traditions and origins; for example, Tip Toey Joey is a Brazilian children's footwear brand, while Lazare styles in our current assortment are made in Portugal.

We choose each partner independently, looking for a combination of thoughtful construction, distinctive design and a fit philosophy that belongs alongside our own.