Vessi Shoes Review: Are These Waterproof Sneakers Worth It?

I’ve tried a lot of waterproof shoes since my stay in Toronto, but I really like my Vessis… so much that I’m going to get a few pairs for myself! So, are they worth the hype and the price? I’ll share my experience with them, and you can decide if these shoes should be your next adventure companion.

We’re adventure seekers. People who trek through muddy forests to discover natural wonders and explore new cities in the pouring rain. So don’t let wet feet stop you from making the most of your trip!

If you’ve ever lived in a rainy city, you’ve probably heard of Vessi, a newly launched shoe brand that sells waterproof shoes. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and puddle-friendly.

As someone from Toronto who has personally tried out both the Vessi Everyday Sneaker and the Weekend Sneakers, I can confirm that they are 100% waterproof.

If you’re about to buy a pair or just want to know what all the hype is about, read on for my full review of the Vessi waterproof shoes.

What Is Vessi?

Vessi is a startup headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., that makes waterproof shoes and other accessories.

Vessi was founded in 2018 by founders Andy Wang, Tony Yu, and Mikaella Go, who decided to do something about soggy shoes. They developed a waterproof, stylish shoe that was both comfortable and breathable.

Named after the Finnish word for water, Vessi quickly caught on, raising over $1 million in its first Kickstarter campaign. In a city nicknamed Raincouver (rain + Vancouver), the waterproof Vessi sneakers were born!

Vessi has become a household name in the waterproof footwear industry in Vancouver. I dare say no one in a rainy city has ever heard of Vessi—thanks to social media!

My Rating: 4.5/5

Pros

- Puddle-friendly (waterproof)

- Breathable material

Lightweight comfort

Stylish designs

Cons

- Not all models are machine washable.

- Only available in Vancouver.

- Appears bulky on smaller feet.

- Not suitable for intense activities.

- A bit expensive.

Best Vessi Sneakers: Top Picks, Reviewed

Everyday Classic

As the name suggests, these sneakers are the perfect companion for all your everyday activities. They’re perfect for those who live in rainy areas and need to be prepared for rain at any time.

Wear them all day or simply slip them on before heading home. This classic style can be easily combined with any casual look.

Weekend Sneaker

Vessi’s patented waterproof material is integrated into a stylish silhouette. This is the brand’s least sporty design. It’s easy to pair with any outfit and can be worn for any occasion. Perfect for those who want to stay dry while staying stylish.

If you’re looking for in-depth information on these babies, check out our CEO’s review of the Vessi Weekender sneakers after wearing them for six months!

Cityscape Classic

This is the brand’s very first style. It’s their classic design and the one you’ve seen in every advertisement. They’re ultralight and made for freedom of movement.

The Cityscape offers less traction than the other models, so if ice is a common occurrence in your area, I would consider a different style.

It’s also one of the most affordable models available, so if you’re on a budget, the Vessi Cityscape is perfect for you.

Stormburst High Top

Welcome to Vessi’s newest stylish shoe: the Stormburst. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers an adventurous design for travelers looking for new, comfortable, and waterproof activewear sneakers.

With 4 different colors – Peak Black, Frost White, Dusk Purple and Boreal Green – we travelers can look stylish, be comfortable and stay dry with one shoe!

What Key Features Make Vessi's Great?

Waterproof

Yes, this feature is obviously the first one I’ll mention. After all, Vessi is dedicated to being THE waterproof shoe. Vessi advertises 100% waterproof sneakers and other products thanks to their patented material. This feature can be a decisive advantage for anyone who lives in rainy regions or enjoys being outdoors. But no shoe is invulnerable. So beware of excessive wear or improper care, as these can compromise the waterproofness over time.

Balance Between Comfort & Style

Vessi shoes are known for their lightweight design, combining comfort and style. The cushioned soles and flexible material contribute to the comfort. As with any shoe, however, individual comfort can vary depending on personal preference and foot shape. I personally find Vessi ideal for rainy days, but not as comfortable in warm weather or after extended wear!

An Eco-Friendly Option

If you care about eco-friendly products, you’ll feel good about purchasing a pair of Vessi shoes thanks to the company’s sustainability commitments. Vessi promotes its shoes as sustainable and vegan-friendly because they use less water and produce less waste during manufacturing compared to conventional methods.

Easy to Clean

Vessi sneakers are easy to clean, saving you time. A pair can even go in the washing machine! To maintain the integrity and waterproofness of your shoes, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Keep in mind: Incorrect cleaning methods can compromise performance and longevity.

What Makes Vessi Sneakers Waterproof?

So what makes Vessi sneakers so special from the crowd? Above all, their unique waterproofness.

The secret lies in the innovative use of a Dyma-Tex material, a two-climate knit that is an integral part of the shoe design.

This unique, 100% waterproof layer is a breathable knit precisely engineered between the inner and outer layers of the shoe. The patented Dyma-Tex membrane is designed to allow heat and moisture from perspiration to escape in the form of vapor, while preventing water droplets from penetrating the shoe.

This means that your feet stay dry from rain or puddles on the outside as well as from sweat on the inside!

Another factor that contributes to the waterproofness of Vessi shoes is the use of polyurethane in their manufacture.

Polyurethane is known for its water-repellent properties and enhances the shoe’s protection against water penetration. This clever material combination ensures that Vessi sneakers perform well even in wet conditions and keep your feet comfortably dry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vessi

I’m a half size, what should I choose?

If you’re a half size, you can size up for a looser fit – or down for a more snug one.

I’m a full size, what should I choose?

Vessis fit true to size! So, go with your most common US sneaker size.

Will my orthotics fit?

Absolutely! We want to make sure as many people as possible can enjoy dry socks, so if you wear orthotics you can swap our insoles for yours.

Does Vessi have wide sizes? What about narrow sizes?

At this time Vessis only come in standard widths. That said, we find that many wider sizes can find the right fit for them because of our extremely stretchy and adaptable upper knit. For our Weekend collection specifically, that one was designed a little wider to begin with, so you might find it works well for you in your normal size.

How does sizing compare to other brands?

Good question! Vessi sizing is a little different than other brands because of how the upper knit stretches and adapts. There’s no other direct equivalent, so we recommend going with your most average sneaker size in your closet.

Final Verdict

Vessi has carved out a niche in the footwear market by offering stylish, 100% waterproof sneakers that don’t compromise on comfort or sustainability. Their patented Dyma-tex® knit technology ensures your feet stay dry while remaining breathable, making them ideal for unpredictable weather. Lightweight and versatile, Vessi shoes are perfect for daily wear, travel, and outdoor activities. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to vegan materials and eco-friendly practices resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the outdoors, Vessi delivers reliable performance with a focus on ethical production.