Vessi Shoes Review: Are They Actually Waterproof? (Unsponsored)
Published · UpdatedThe quick answer
The black Vessi Courtside Classic pair I bought kept water out in my pouring and dipping tests. Comfort was less convincing: the sides and midfoot felt snug, and I rated them about 6 out of 10.
I paid $135 for the pair discussed in this unsponsored review. I would consider them for wet everyday outings if the fit works, but I would try them on before choosing them for long days of walking.
Watch the full video
Watch the full video on YouTube
What worked and what did not
| Part of the test | My experience |
|---|---|
| Water poured over the shoes | Water beaded off and my feet stayed dry. |
| Dipping and muddy conditions | The tested pair kept water out. |
| Cleaning dried mud | A damp towel removed it easily in my test. |
| Fit | Enough length in the toe box, with pressure around the sides and midfoot. |
| Comfort | Fine for short errands; about 6 out of 10 for me. |
Waterproofing was the strongest part
I poured water directly over the shoes, dipped them into water and wore them through mud. The pair performed better than I expected in those tests.
After leaving mud on them for a few days, I could wipe the dried dirt away with a damp towel. That was convenient for everyday wet weather use.
These results describe my pair and the conditions shown in the video. They do not establish how every pair will perform after months of wear, and water can still enter through the opening at the ankle.
The fit was too snug for my preference
There was more padding around the top and sides than I expected. The toe box gave me enough room lengthwise, but the shoe squeezed around the width and midfoot.
For short errands, that was tolerable. Over a longer period, I did not find them particularly comfortable, which is why my score settled around 6 out of 10.
Fit is personal. Someone with a different foot shape may have a different experience, so my comfort score is not a measurement that applies to every buyer.
How I judge the $135 price
At the price I paid, I wanted both the waterproofing and a fit I enjoyed. The waterproofing did its job in the test, but the fit made the purchase harder to justify for my own use.
Ordinary sneakers may feel as comfortable or better for less money, while giving up the waterproof construction. That tradeoff matters more than comparing advertising claims about cushioning.
If wet commutes are the main problem, the extra cost may be worthwhile. If comfort is the reason for buying, compare several pairs in person and check the current price and return terms.
Would I recommend the Courtside Classic?
I would put it on the shortlist for someone who wants a sneaker for rain and puddles, provided it fits comfortably. The waterproofing was the clear success of my test.
I would keep looking if the sides or midfoot already feel tight during a fitting, or if the main goal is a comfortable shoe for long walks. The pair I tried did not give me enough comfort to recommend it to everyone.
Check that the model you are considering is the Courtside Classic. This review describes that pair, not the fit or performance of every Vessi design.