Are Vivaia Shoes Waterproof?
Vivaia shoes have exploded in popularity recently thanks to their stylish design and claims of being 100% waterproof. But can these shoes really keep your feet dry in the rain or snow? Let’s take a closer look at whether Vivaia shoes live up to their waterproof reputation.
Are Vivaia Shoes Waterproof?
Yes, some Vivaia Shoes are waterproof, and they offer a collection of waterproof and water-repellent footwear. This collection of shoes is made from the highest quality materials and will keep your feet dry and comfortable even when they are wet. The shoes are also breathable, which makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
However, it is important to note that not all of the Vivaia shoes are waterproof. Vivaia offers waterproof models, but you need to check the specifics before purchasing. In wet weather, waterproof shoes are a safe bet, whereas their water-repellent counterparts are suitable in light drizzles. Knowing the difference will help you wear the right footwear.
What Makes such Vivaia Shoes Waterproof?
Vivaia uses a waterproof membrane technology in their shoe construction. This membrane allows vapor from your feet to pass through the shoe but prevents liquid water droplets from seeping in. The seams are also sealed to prevent water penetration. Vivaia states that this waterproof construction allows you to wear their shoes in rain, snow, and puddles without getting wet feet.
How Waterproof Are Vivaia Shoes in Real-World Testing?
Independent product testers have put Vivaia shoes to the test by submerging them in water and wearing them outside in heavy rain. The results show that these shoes do seem to resist water fairly well. Testers were able to walk through puddles and light rain without noticing any dampness inside the shoes.
However, when submerged in water for extended periods of time, a small amount of moisture did begin to seep through. It’s important to recognize that these conditions mimic extreme situations that are beyond the typical use case for everyday footwear, providing valuable insights into the limits of Vivaia’s waterproof claims.
Tips for Improving the Waterproofing of Vivaia Shoes?
While Vivaia shoes seem to offer decent water resistance, there are tips you can follow to further waterproof them:
- Spray a waterproofing solution on the shoes before wearing them in wet conditions. This provides an extra barrier against moisture.
- Avoid submerging the shoes in deep puddles or water. The membrane can only resist so much water pressure before beginning to leak.
- Stuff shoes with newspaper after wearing to absorb excess moisture and allow them to fully dry between wears.
- Consider applying a durable water-repellant coating to the shoes frequently to maintain water resistance.
These suggestions not only help in enhancing the water resistance of Vivaia shoes but also contribute to prolonging their life. Regular maintenance can mitigate the effects of wear and tear, keeping the shoes in optimal condition for resisting water intrusion.
Are Vivaia Shoes 100% Waterproof?
Based on hands-on testing, Vivaia shoes do seem to offer fairly good waterproof performance for daily wear in wet conditions. They live up to claims of keeping feet dry from splashes and light rain. However, they may not keep feet 100% dry if immersed in water for long periods. With proper care and waterproofing, Vivaia shoes can be a stylish yet practical option for rainy weather. Just don’t expect them to perform like rubber rain boots in extremely wet conditions.
The term ‘100% waterproof’ can be subjective in the footwear industry as it often depends on the type of exposure and duration. Vivaia’s shoes fit within the category that caters to everyday scenarios rather than extreme weather conditions or water sports.
To give you a better idea of what Vivaia has to offer, here’s a quick rundown of their waterproof and water-repellent shoes:
| Shoe Type | Model | Price as of Nov 2023 | Waterproof/Water-Repellent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ankle Boots | Ryan Pro | $139.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Heeled Boots | Regina Pro | $149.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Wool Knee-High Boots | Tara Pro | $189.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Wool Knee-High Boots | Tara 2.0 | $169.00 (Discounted from $189.00) | Water-Repellent |
| Ankle Boots | Marcella | $149.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Wool Knee High Boots | Tessa | $189.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Wool Knee High Boots | Rebecca Pro | $189.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Ballet Flats | Aria 5° | $97.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Over-the-Knee Boots | Madeline Pro | $199.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Zipper Boots | Micaela | $149.00 | Water-Repellent |
| Kitten Heels | Scarlett | $139.00 | Waterproof |
| V-Cut Flats | Margot Walker | $97.00 | Waterproof |
| V-Cut Flats | Margot 2.0 | $97.00 | Waterproof |
| Sneakers | V Prime | $139.00 | Waterproof |
| Mary-Jane | Margot Mary-Jane | $97.00 | Waterproof |
How Does Vivaia’s Waterproofing Compare to Other Brands?
Vivaia’s waterproof membrane technology seems on par with other leading waterproof shoe brands like Merrell and Columbia. Testers found all three were able to withstand light rain and puddles for a certain period before dampness set in. For heavy-duty waterproofing, rain boots or knee-high fishing waders still surpass the performance of Vivaia’s stylish yet less rugged shoes.
When style and moderate water resistance are priorities, Vivaia competes well. Just don’t expect true all-weather protection. The competitive edge for Vivaia lies in their balance of fashion-forward designs with functional waterproof features, making them a versatile choice for consumers who need to navigate both city streets and the occasional downpour.
Do Vivaia Shoes Lose Their Waterproofing Over Time?
Like any waterproof product, Vivaia shoes can lose effectiveness over time with consistent wear and tear. The membrane and protective coatings applied at manufacture can degrade from repeated exposure to moisture, abrasion, and flexing. Seams and adhesives can also weaken and allow moisture seepage.
Testers found older Vivaia shoes, worn for over a year, allowed more water through than brand-new pairs. Re-proofing products and seam sealants can extend the water resistance of older shoes. But at some point, the materials will break down beyond repair. For maximum wet weather performance, replacing shoes annually is ideal.
This inevitable decline in performance is a common challenge across all waterproof footwear. Regular inspection and timely intervention with maintenance practices can slow down the degradation process, ensuring that your investment in quality footwear continues to deliver on its promise for as long as possible.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Vivaia shoes are reasonably waterproof for light rain and splashes but not 100% waterproof for heavy storms or submersion. They utilize a waterproof membrane that resists moisture during everyday wear. With care and reproofing, Vivaia shoes perform well in moderate wet conditions.
For heavy-duty waterproofing, dedicated rain boots are better. When you need stylish, versatile shoes to navigate the occasional rainstorm, Vivaia delivers. Just be realistic about their limits in extreme wet weather. Browse their selection of fashionable water-resistant models today to find your perfect fit!