Each pair is handcrafted in Portugal in around three weeks.

As part of IMAGINE (our social impact program), Arona will receive the proceeds from every sale.

The Minimal High crosses a clean design with precise craftsmanship, featuring a whole-cut upper in premium leather (available in plain, grain leather or suede) or vegan synthetic materials and a rubber cupsole. All our leathers are gold and silver rated by the Leather Working Group and adherent to the Leather Standard by OEKO-TEX®.

PREMIUM ITALIAN LEATHERS	HANDCRAFTED IN PORTUGAL
ETHICALLY MADE TO ORDER	FREE EXCHANGES AND RETURNS

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Details: 

• Handcrafted in Portugal
• High-cut sneaker
• Premium Italian leathers -  gold and silver rated by the Leather Working Group and adherent to the Leather Standard by OEKO-TEX®
  
• Internal flat cotton lacing
• Soft leather lining
• Padded heel counter
• Leather/Foam insole - fully breathable and antibacterial, completely removable for daily use
• Rubber cupsole - stitched and glued for durability
• Embossed logo

Composition:

• Upper: Calf Leather
• Lining: Calf Leather
• Sole: 100% Rubber
• Laces: 100% Cotton

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Shipping:

All of our products are made to order in a craft workshop in Portugal. After your order is processed, we try our best to dispatch them within 15 days and we will keep you informed about the entire process, from order to delivery. 

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Care: 

Plain Leather: Apply a thin layer of leather balm and once it’s dry, gently brush to keep the finish of the leather always in good conditions. Opt for softer hog bristles to make sure you don’t damage your sneakers. A leather protector spray is also an option to consider.

Suede: Use a brush to gently remove any dirt or dust. Brush in the direction of the fabric’s grain to avoid damaging it. Dry stains can be removed by using a white or brown gum eraser. If it doesn't work we advise you to visit your local cobbler and get additional advice.

Nubuck: Nubuck cloths are the best option to remove dirt and shiny spots. Wipe in several directions using circular motions and make sure you cover the entire nap area.

Rubber Soles: Clean the dirt with a dampened cloth and carefully soak the sole in a mixture of water and dishwashing soap. Make sure you don’t soak the upper part! Use a toothbrush with the mixture to scrub your soles. Once it’s done, dry the sneakers using a cloth.

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My name is Arona, I’m 17 years old and I’m from Mauritania. I grew up in Nouakchott, a city marked by many inequalities. My mother was my shelter, the person who loved me the most. In Mauritania, I was never recognised as a citizen. Being black meant being invisible. I faced discrimination all my life — in accessing documents, education, and work. It reached a point where the racism became unbearable.

After violence in the streets during the elections, I decided to flee. I travelled on a wooden boat with 84 people. Those days were full of fear and uncertainty, but I survived. That journey left a permanent mark on me. Later, I passed through Spain and eventually arrived in Fundão, Portugal. Here I found safety, peace, and people who welcomed me with respect.

For the first time, I felt seen as a human being. I took part in the DiVERGE programme, where I customised a pair of sneakers — simple and light, symbols of peace and new beginnings. I added a white sole, representing hope and the rebirth of my life here. Every step in these sneakers reminds me that I am walking towards a future with dignity. If I could leave a message, it would be this: Never judge someone by the colour of their skin or the country they were born in. Everyone has a story.

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