I Tested VESSI Waterproof Shoes so You Don’t Have To…
Check out my full video HERE
Introduction
Vessi shoes have been all over YouTube, typically appearing in sponsored segments. They’re touted as 100% waterproof, incredibly comfortable, and generally pitched as the perfect everyday footwear. After seeing countless ad integrations, I decided to buy a pair and put them to the test myself—without any sponsorship or bias.
I picked up the Vessi Courtside Classics (in black) to see if they live up to the hype. Here’s what I found after real-world testing, from their much-advertised waterproofing to their comfort and overall value for the price.
1. Waterproof Claims: Surprisingly Accurate
The biggest Vessi claim: these shoes are “100% waterproof.” They’re often positioned as a replacement for rain boots, supposedly ready to handle puddles, mud, and wet conditions without a problem.
My Test:
- Water & Mud: I poured water directly onto them, dipped them in water, and got them muddy. The water beaded right off the surface, and even after leaving some dried mud on for a few days, a quick wipe-down with a damp towel cleaned them easily.
Verdict on Waterproofing:
The waterproofing worked better than I expected. If a rain-ready sneaker is what you’re after, Vessi delivers on this promise.
2. Comfort: Not Quite “Walking on Clouds”
Vessi’s marketing often emphasizes comfort—describing the feeling as “walking on a cloud.” For me, comfort is the most critical aspect of any shoe, so I had high expectations.
My Test:
- Fit & Feel: While they are more padded than expected around the sides and top, I found they squeezed my feet a bit, especially width-wise. The toe box gave me adequate room lengthwise, but the snugness around the midfoot was noticeable.
- Long Wear: For short errands, they were fine—not painful, but not remarkable. For prolonged wear, I wouldn’t call them exceptionally comfortable. On a 1-to-10 scale, I’d give them about a 6 out of 10 for comfort.
Verdict on Comfort:
They’re okay, but nowhere near as cushioned or foot-friendly as Vessi’s marketing suggests. You can easily find similarly comfortable shoes for less money or more comfortable shoes at the same price.
3. Price & Value: Are They Worth It?
Vessi shoes aren’t cheap. My pair, the Courtside Classics, cost $135 before any sponsorship code discounts. For a simple sneaker design, that’s on the expensive side, especially when you consider alternatives.
The Competition:
- For $80 or less, you can find standard sneakers from well-known brands that feel just as good (if not better) on your feet, though they may not be waterproof.
- For around $130, you can buy premium athletic shoes (like Adidas Ultraboost) that offer exceptional comfort and support, though they might not be fully waterproof.
Verdict on Value:
If you prioritize extreme waterproofing in a sneaker-like design, the price might be justifiable. But if you’re simply looking for comfort or a stylish everyday shoe, there are better values out there.
Final Thoughts
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If You Need Waterproofing: Vessi excels at keeping your feet dry. They genuinely are waterproof and easy to clean. If rainy commutes or splashy sidewalks are your daily reality, and a standard rain boot won’t cut it style-wise, Vessi could make sense.
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If Comfort & Price Matter Most: The comfort level isn’t extraordinary for the premium price. You could easily find cheaper shoes that feel just as good, or more premium shoes at the same price that offer superior comfort. Unless waterproofing is non-negotiable, Vessi might not be the best investment.
Overall Recommendation:
I wouldn’t outright recommend Vessi to everyone. They do what they promise when it comes to waterproofing, but the comfort and price point leave something to be desired. If you already own a pair, I’d love to know your experience—maybe these shoes fit others better than they did me.
In the end, Vessi shoes feel more like a niche solution than a universally great choice. If you’re their target market—someone who wants a sneaker-like shoe that’s genuinely waterproof—then they might be worth trying, ideally with a discount code. Otherwise, you might want to look elsewhere for your next pair of kicks.