Vessi footwear has revolutionized the shoe industry with their innovative waterproof designs. We wear our Vessi waterproof footwear to Alaska annually, and the shoes never fail in their ability to keep our feet dry.
Their brand combines style, comfort, and functionality in a way that’s perfect for travelers and city dwellers. So, if you walk your dog on wet days, reside in a rainy city, or travel to Alaska and beyond, these may be the perfect footwear for you.
Vessi’s lineup includes options for men, women, and children, all featuring their signature waterproof technology. We purchased our first two pairs several years ago because we live in Vancouver, where it rains a lot. We were thrilled to learn they are based in our home city.

Today, they’re our go-to brand, worn at home and when we travel. Several years after our first pair, we reached out to the company to become ambassadors because we strongly believe in their brand.
Why Vessi Waterproof Shoes Excel For Alaska Adventures
Vessi waterproof shoes stand out as an excellent choice for Alaska’s diverse and challenging terrain. These innovative shoes offer unparalleled protection against the elements while maintaining comfort and style.
The patented Dyma-tex material used creates a fully waterproof barrier without sacrificing breathability. This unique construction ensures dry feet even in Alaska’s wettest conditions.
During the last few years, we’ve tested our footwear by walking through rivers in Alaska, puddles at home, and snow in the Canadian Rockies. Each time, we came away with cozy, dry feet.

Vessi’s lightweight design is a game-changer for travelers. Packing for an Alaskan cruise often means bringing clothing and footwear for various activities, weather conditions, and formal nights. These versatile shoes help lighten our load, and we can travel with fewer shoes.
The waterproofing in these shoes is built to last, unlike some competitors whose water-resistant properties diminish over time. Even though I have added to my Vessi collection, my first pair still looks great after several washings and LOTS of wear.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Vessi’s key features for Alaska travel:
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
100% waterproof | Keeps feet dry in rain, snow, and puddles. |
Breathable | Prevents sweatly feet during activity. |
Lightweight | Easy to pack and wear for long periods. |
Durable | Withstands Alaska’s rugged terrain. |
Eco-friendly | Aligns with conservation values. |
Vessi offers several styles suitable for different Alaskan activities:
- Weekend Sneakers: Perfect for casual city exploring in Anchorage or Juneau. These are my husband’s favorite.
- Stormburst Low Top: These are great for light hiking and outdoor adventures. They are my top pick. I like the added sole grip and the cushioning feel.
- Cityscape: Stylish option for evenings out in Alaska’s urban areas.
Want dry feet when visiting Alaska?
Find your perfect waterproof shoes here. Check out the newest colors, styles and trends to become a puddle jumper.
Find your Vessis HEREWe’ve found Vessi shoes perform admirably in various Alaskan scenarios:
- Rainy coastal walks in Southeast Alaska.
- Muddy trails near glaciers.
- Wet decks on cruise ships.
- Shore excursions like whale watching, kayaking, or river rafting.

Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, and rain is a common occurrence. We took a 3-1/2-hour tour to Mendenhall Glacier and Gold Creek Salmon Bake in the pouring rain. While most passengers found it miserable, we returned to our ship warm and dry due to our clothing choices.
We paired our waterproof Vessi runners with our Columbia 3-in-1 coats. Columbia’s versality make it our top jacket choice for Alaska.
Notable Attributes Of Vessi Footwear
Eco-Friendly Materials And Production
Their vegan-friendly materials and sleek designs make them an attractive choice for environmentally conscious consumers. They use no animal products in their shoes, and their production methods aim to reduce waste and energy consumption.
Airflow And Coziness
Some Vessi shoes have an innovative knit material that allows for excellent air circulation. I like this feature for its breathability and for contributing to the shoe’s light feel.

When worn in the Canadian Rockies in winter, the lightweight mesh still provided warmth without the need for heavy or double-layered socks.
Proprietary Water-Resistant Technology
The biggest reason to own these shoes is for their waterproofing properties. The patented waterproof technology creates a barrier that keeps water out while allowing our feet to breathe.
Unlike traditional waterproof footwear that uses a Gortex or a membrane, Vessi’s waterproofing properties are in the mesh material. This means that the waterproof factor won’t wear out.
The top of the shoes doesn’t open like competitor styles to keep water from entering at the ankle. This design might deter older people who have difficulty putting shoes on.
Most their styles are available in full sizes, not half sizes. Only the Tidal sneakers and Market Flats come in half sizes. For full sizes, they recommend sizing down if you typically wear half sizes. Their Weekender style provides a roomier fit for those with wider feet.
Their shoe sizes accommodate most feet:
- Women’s: US 5-11.
- Men’s: US 6-14.
- Kids: US 11-4.

Selecting The Ideal Vessi Style For Alaskan Adventures
Adaptable Choices
I recommend considering the Stormburst Low Top as a versatile option when planning a trip to Alaska. These shoes offer a snug fit with an elastic collar at the ankle, providing excellent support for various activities. They are a great replacement for the discontinued Everyday Move.
The true-to-size design works best with lightweight socks or barefoot wear. A convenient pull tab on the heel makes slipping them on a breeze.
I find the Stormburst Low Top has more arch support than the popular Weekender style. While my husband wears the Weekender and needs orthotics, he has swapped out the shoe liner with his custom-made orthotics.

Monochrome Elegance
When traveling to Alaska in June, July or later, the most challenging part of packing is choosing shoes. Cruise lines often require a business casual dress code in the dining room.
For a sophisticated look that pairs well with any outfit, we suggest opting for Vessi shoes in black-on-black. The all-black design works well on port days and flows into the evening with dark jeans or casual pants.
This timeless color choice is practical for travel, hiding dirt, and matching diverse wardrobes. Pros of black Vessi shoes:
- Versatile color and style.
- Dirt-resistant.
- Easy to dress up or down, and coordinate with multiple outfits.
Styling tips:
- Pair with dark jeans for a streamlined look.
- Contrast with lighter clothing for a bold statement.
- Use as a neutral base for colorful Alaskan-inspired accessories.
Vessi’s Shoe Range and Hues
Vessi offers a diverse collection of waterproof footwear suitable for various occasions. The Stormburst Low Top and High Top, and Tidal Sneaker are designed for active lifestyles. Their design features make them perfect for dog walks, light hikes, and navigating rainy urban and wilderness environments.
For a classic look, the Weekenders resemble traditional canvas shoes with laces. They feature flat soles and allow for customization with removable insoles, accommodating those who need extra arch support (like my husband).
The Everyday Classic presents a sleeker alternative to the Stormburst Low Top, with a simpler design that leans towards a more masculine aesthetic. For those seeking an ultra-lightweight option, the Cityscape Classic fit the bill.
Boardwalk Slip-Ons blur the line between indoor and outdoor footwear. Their waterproof properties make them suitable for lounging at sea or visiting the ship’s spa.

The Weekend Chelsea is a recent addition to our collection. It features a knit fabric and high-sided design. It’s an excellent replacement for rubber boots. My husband has worn them in deeper rivers and during a monsoon.
Vessi’s color palette primarily consists of timeless neutrals like black, white, linen beige, and various shades of grey. However, they occasionally release limited edition colors, including baby blue, pink, coral, purple, and green, for those seeking more vibrant options.
Most of our shoes are in timeless colors since they go with any outfit. However, I did add a baby pink, which ironically matches a pink Michael Kors handbag I own.
Most Vessi shoes have white soles, but some styles are available in an all-black option for a sleek, monochromatic look. The black-on-black is more versatile and can easily transition from day to night without a footwear change.
Vessi Shoe Fit
We’ve found that Vessi shoes generally fit true to size. However, some of their styles fit larger or smaller than others. Thanks to their generous 90-day exchange and return policy, ordering and returning ones that don’t fit correctly isn’t a problem.
They also offer free shipping in North America with a purchase minimum and a 365-day warranty against manufacturing defects.

One of Vessi’s newest designs, Soho, has a narrow, snug fit. We found we had to size up to wear these vegan leather shoes. The Soho resembles a classic tennis shoe.
The Weekenders work well for those with wider feet. Their wider fit makes the shoe roomier, so some people need to order a size down. While I loved the look of this design, I couldn’t wear the ladies shoes because their smallest size in women’s (size 5) was too big for me. However, the kids size 4 fit me well.
With its higher-cut design, the Weekend Chelsea offers a snug ankle fit, providing extra protection against water and debris. This makes it an excellent choice for wetter conditions or outdoor activities. We found these fit a little big.
For individuals with wider feet or those who prefer a roomier fit, we recommend considering sizing up. This is particularly relevant for the Everyday Classic and Cityscape models, which tend to have a sleeker profile.
While Vessi doesn’t make footwear to replace athletic footwear for intense workouts or long-distance running, there is one option. The Stormburst Low Top and High Top the perfect design for active lifestyles.
Our Vessi shoes have served us well through trips in Alaska, visiting the Canadian Rockies, and on our adventures in Singapore and Japan. Are these the best shoes for travel and wet climates? We think so, and don’t travel without ours.

Keeping Your Vessi Shoes In Top Shape
Vessi shoes are designed for easy maintenance. We’ve found that regular care can keep these waterproof shoes looking fresh for extended periods. A simple sponge wash often suffices for daily upkeep. I had to do this after a dusty ATV ride in Denali.
Most Vessi styles can be cleaned in the sink using a soft-bristled brush or sponge with mild soap for a more thorough cleaning. Some Vessi models, like the Weekenders, are machine washable, adding convenience to shoe cleaning.
Also, the stain-resistant properties of Vessi shoes mean that consumers don’t need to shy away from light-colored options, such as all-white versions.
Our personal collection of shoes has proven their durability in various environments, from rainy city streets to snowy paths and even tropical rainforests. Their versatility and easy care make them an excellent choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Vessi’s waterproof footwear has proven a massive hit with us and other travelers. They’ve added backpacks, coats, gloves, and hats to their line: all waterproof too.
