Comfier Than Sneakers, Cuter Than Galoshes: Why the Vivaia Sneaker Boot Has Become My New Favorite Shoe

Vivaia has a reputation for designing comfortable, walkable flats and other footwear (like these adorable Sneakerinas), so while I was already expecting something my feet would feel good in, I was blown away by just how cushy and supportive these boots are. The insoles offer sturdy arch support while still maintaining some bounce and are meant to relieve pressure from pain points—something they do without fail, given that I have not once felt that achy feeling in the balls of my feet, even after hours of wear.

When it comes to ankle boots especially, I will often run into the issue of chafing where the collar meets my calf, but not so with these. There’s a pillowy piece of padding all along the back of the shaft that not only prevents any uncomfortable rubbing, but also provides extra stability to my ankle by ensuring that it’s snugly hugged in place. The round, roomy toe box and stretchy knit upper (famously made from recycled plastic bottles), also allow me to wear thick socks without worrying about pinched toes or stifled movement.

As for the “sneaker” outsole? It’s just thick enough to give me some extra height, and since it’s extended a bit further past the heel, also promotes stability with every step. Having tramped over wet leaves and slick sidewalks aplenty, I can also confirm that the textured bottom supplies the grip it promises—no slipping or sliding.

I don't know about you, but I always inevitably find myself in a rush whenever I have to leave the house. The easy pull-on style of these babies makes running out the door that much quicker, as does the fact that, aesthetically, they’re so cute and versatile, I don’t have to think twice about styling them. Jeans, plaid minis, even leggings—they have that perfect ankle bootie look that goes with nearly everything (and, psst: they're available in a slew of colorways).
 
Plus, they’re a lot less bulky and difficult to wear than my big, heavy rain boots, which bring me to my next point…

The brand says that the aforementioned plastic-bottle upper is water-repellant, meaning drops just slide off rather than soaking into the fabric, and therefore, soaking into your socks. Although I was skeptical that a material as light, flexible and breathable as Vivaia’s could really keep out moisture, I ate my hat when I wore the boots out in the pouring rain, skirting puddles and jumping over gutter ponds the whole way, and they really did keep my feet dry.

And they’re not just effective against external elements; the insoles are actually crafted from artemisia argyi (Chinese mugwort), which is said to offer moisture-wicking and antibacterial benefits that can help prevent feet from getting sweaty and smelly, even in damp conditions.  

If you were to ask me to describe my perfect pair of shoes from getting to Point A to Point B to Point C and back again, the Vivaia Sneaker Boots would be it. They’re comfortable, true to size with just enough room to wiggle my toes and, in addition to being water-repellent, are also machine-washable. I’ll note that they have stayed remarkably clean these past few months, but it’s nice to know that I can just throw them in a cycle and have them looking as good as new if they do get stained or muddy.

Though I will admit that the boots’ sporty sole makes them a little harder to dress up, they are, for the most part, as stylish and versatile as I could hope for as someone who often finds herself in multiple environments throughout the day (office, work event, drinks with friends, etc.). And, of course, they’re the ideal choice for those rainy days when I don’t want to kill my #lewk with a big ol’ pair of rainboots.

Are they worth the investment? Considering how many boxes they check and how much wear I’ve already gotten out of them, this non-driving New Yorker sure thinks so. Who needs a hybrid car when you can have a hybrid shoe?