I come from the North of England so let me tell you that when it rains, it pours (except when it just kinda drizzles). I will also tell you something else, it is impossible to commit great deeds in bad shoes or wet shoes so you need to keep those feet dry guys!
Seriously now, whether you’re commuting through a downpour or embarking on a wet outdoor adventure, wet feet are not fun. Enter Vessi Footwear, a brand that promises to keep your feet dry, comfortable, and stylish no matter the weather.
Founded back in the golden age of 2018, Vessi has quickly gained a reputation for creating waterproof sneakers that aren’t just functional but also comfortable and sleek as hell. In a world where we’ve come to expect a lot from our gear, Vessi is stepping up with shoes that combine cutting-edge technology with everyday style.
But are they really as good as they claim? Let’s take a deeper dive into Vessi Footwear and see if it’s the right fit for you.
What is Vessi Footwear?
Vessi started out with a crystal clear credos; to create a waterproof sneaker that people could wear every day, no matter the weather, regardless of the occasion. While there are plenty of waterproof boots and hiking shoes out there on the market, Vessi wanted to fill a gap and offer something a little bit different – shoes that would keep you dry and comfortable, but that also looked good and could be worn all day and all night from the office to the coffee shop.
The brand uses a patented material called Dyma-tex, which is kinda the secret sauce behind their waterproof performance. Dyma-tex is a breathable, stretchy, and all-round durable fabric that is fully waterproof and yet allows moisture to escape, meaning you won’t end up with sweaty feet inside your shoes.
Sounds like the best of both worlds, right? well that’s cos it is…
Key Features of Vessi Shoes
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Vessi shoes are more than just waterproof sneakers though. They also pack in a whole number of features that make them perfect for all types of weather scenarios and a range of activities.
Here’s what sets them apart;
- Dyma-tex Technology
The star of the show here really is the magic Dyma-tex fabric. Unlike traditional waterproof materials which can feel stuffy, sweaty and restrictive, Dyma-tex keeps water out while still letting your feet breathe. This is a huge boon, and it means that whether you’re running in the rain or walking through puddles, you’ll stay dry and stay comfortable.
- Waterproof Performance
Vessi’s waterproof technology has been fully stress tested to ensure that your feet don’t get soaked. From torrential downpours to slushy snow, these shoes are designed to stand up to the elements and keep your feet safe. Best of all though, the waterproof barrier doesn’t make the shoes bulky or stiff, which is a very common downside of traditional waterproof footwear.
- Breathability
Another key feature of these sneakers is the sheer breathability of the aforementioned Dyma-tex fabric. It’s engineered to ‘wick away’ moisture from your feet, which means no more soggy socks or sweaty feet – even after a long day of walking or running. Whether you are going for a long urban walk or a proper outdoor hike, your feet should stay dry and comfy.
- Comfort and Fit
Vessi shoes are built for all-day wear. They feature cushioned soles, foot arch support, and a highly flexible design. The stretchy upper material adjusts to the shape of your feet, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit right out of the box so no need to ‘break these in’. So, whether you are out running errands or commuting to the grindstone, you won’t feel like you’re wearing a heavy, clunky-cloggy shoe.
- Sustainability
Like us, the tree-hugging peeps over at Vessi are also highly committed to sustainability. Their shoes are made from eco-friendly materials, and they’ve even made a conscious effort to minimize all waste in their manufacturing process.
So, not only are you protecting your feet from the elements, but you’re also doing a little bit to protect the planet. Always buy sustainable travel gear if you can.
- Stylish Designs
Let’s face it – waterproof shoes don’t always win when it comes to the style department – in fact, they usually look positively minging.
But Vessi has beautifully nailed the balance between function and fashion. They offer a range of modern, sleek designs, from casual slip-ons to more athletic-looking sneakers. Whether you’re after something minimalistic or a bit more bold, Vessi has options to match any wardrobe or more or less any occasion. I am very fussy about what footwear I will be seen in, and even I would gladly wear most of the designs.
Vessi Shoes in Action: Real-World Review
Okay, we’ve now covered the specs, the hard facts and the details. But the real question is how do these shoes actually hold up in real-world situations?
Let’s break it down;
- Performance in Wet Conditions
The real test for any waterproof shoe is how it performs in wet conditions – and when I took these out for a long November walk on a wet morning, my Vessi passed with flying colors.
Whether it’s heavy rain, little puddles, or even a light dusting of snow, Vessi shoes will help keep your feet dry good a good pair of walking boots. The waterproof barrier holds up even when submerged (briefly), which makes them a great option for those unpredictable rainy days. Plus, the shoes dry pretty quickly, so even if you do get a little wet, they won’t stay soggy for too long.
- Everyday Comfort
Vessi shoes are very comfortable for all-day wear. The stretch fabric actually moulds to your feet, and the cushioned soles provide ample support, making them a great option for city walking, commuting, or even a light jog.
Myself and many other online reviewers note that they can wear them for hours on end without feeling any discomfort. This is a huge bonus for people on the go or for anybody like me with ageing feet.
- Breathability
The shoes really do excel in terms of breathability. Even during warmer months or after a long walk, your feet should stay cool and dry.
This is one of the biggest benefits of Dyma-tex fabric – it keeps water out, but doesn’t trap heat or moisture inside, which is a common issue with other waterproof shoes.
- Versatility and Style
Vessi’s sleek and modern designs make these shoes suitable for nearly any occasion. They’re not just for hiking or rainy days; they’re also stylish enough to wear with jeans, leggings, or even casual work attire.
They are quite literally on all-occasion footwear which is something we have all been waiting for. The various colour options and minimalist designs make them really easy to pair with any outfit, which is a big win for travellers who need every item in their luggage to count.
The Vessi Footwear Range
There are several different models available in the full Vessi range including a number of options for men, women and children.
The range includes lace ups, pull ons, low rises and even Chelsea style boots. We will now take look a quick look at just 2 of them;
Vessi Everyday
- Purpose: The Everyday model is Vessi’s most popular all-purpose sneaker, designed for daily wear in various conditions. These ones are lightweight, comfortable, and built to keep your feet dry in ALL types of weather.
- Style: The Everyday are available in low-top, sleek designs that can be dressed up or down. This makes them great for both casual and slightly more formal outfits.
- Features: Waterproof, breathable, and comfortable enough for all-day wear – it’s the holy trinity! These are perfect for commuters, backpackers, or anyone on the go.
Vessi Cityscape
- Purpose: OK so these are similar to the Everyday sneaker, but they come with a slightly more elevated style and a bit more structure. It’s still designed for daily use but leans more into a fashionable, streetwear look.
- Style: Features a more textured upper and slightly higher profile. Great for those who are seeking a versatile, urban style.
- Features: Waterproof, breathable, and even includes a cushioned sole – great for that added bit of comfort during extended wear!
Pros and Cons of Vessi Footwear
As with any product, the Vessi shoes come with their own pros and cons. Let’s break them down now;
- Waterproof and breathable: The Dyma-tex fabric does a cracking job of keeping water out while allowing moisture to escape.
- Comfortable all-day wear: Cushioned soles and a stretchy upper make these shoes comfy for extended use.
- Eco-friendly: Vessi’s commitment to sustainability is a real bonus for environmentally conscious consumers like us.
- Stylish designs: A range of modest, minimal styles means you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function.
- Expensive: Vessi shoes are a bit more expensive than your average sneaker.
- Limited to certain shoe types: While they offer several great styles, Vessi is still focused primarily on sneakers and casual shoes.
- Break-in period: Some customers have reported a short break-in period. So the stretchy material may feel a bit stiff at first.
Is Vessi Footwear Worth It? Price and Value
The various styles in the Vessi Range cost between $125 – $190 so they are most certainly not cheap trainers.
That said, if you’re someone who has to deal with rainy weather, dirty streets, or just wants a reliable shoe for outdoor activities, then Vessi Footwear are certainly worth considering. With its waterproof technology, breathability, comfort, and stylish designs, these shoes really do tick all the boxes. Plus, their eco-friendly approach is a nice added bonus.
Are they the cheapest shoes on the market? No, not at all. But if you’re tired of soggy socks and want a versatile sneaker that performs in all weather, I’d say that Vessi is a solid investment.
Final Thoughts
In summary, we think these shoes are just bloody great. Whether you’re navigating a rainy morning commute or heading out for a weekend hike, Vessi Footwear offers a winning combination of style, comfort, and waterproof performance. With their highly innovative Dyma-tex fabric, sustainable materials, and cool designs, Vessi trainers prove that functionality doesn’t have to come at the expense of fashion for once.
Ready to keep your feet dry no matter the forecast?! Well Vessi might just be your new favourite footwear brand! Hit the button below to bag yourself a pair.
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