Vessi

Vessi Footwear Ltd. is a Canadian footwear brand headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, operating primarily direct-to-consumer with retail expansion, specializing in 100% waterproof knit sneakers designed for all-weather use.^[1] The company was founded in 2018 by Mikaella Go, Tony Yu, and Andy Wang, who sought to create stylish, comfortable shoes that eliminate the discomfort of wet feet during rainy conditions without sacrificing breathability or aesthetics.^[2][3][4] Their launch via a Kickstarter campaign raised significant funding and established Vessi as a pioneer in waterproof knit technology, quickly gaining a global community of users who value functionality alongside fashion.^[5][6] At the core of Vessi's products is its proprietary Dyma-tex® material, a soft, flexible, and breathable knit that fully repels water while allowing moisture to escape, enabling shoes that are also vegan, machine-washable, and suitable for urban commuting, travel, and casual wear.^[6] The brand offers collections for men, women, and children, including slip-ons, high-tops, and lifestyle sneakers in various colors, all engineered to withstand rain, snow, sand, and sweat without compromising on lightness or durability.^[1][7] Vessi emphasizes sustainability through its cruelty-free materials and ethical manufacturing practices, while actively engaging its community through online sales and initiatives that promote environmental awareness and rain-positive attitudes.^[6] In 2021, the company reached sales of one million pairs, and as of October 2025, it has sold over 2.5 million pairs worldwide, reflecting its rapid growth and appeal in the competitive athleisure market.^[2][8][9]

History

Founding and early development

Vessi Footwear was founded in 2018 in Vancouver, Canada, by co-founders Mikaella Go, Tony Yu, and Andy Wang. Tony Yu, a University of Victoria economics graduate (BA, 2012), brought a background in economics and business, having previously engaged in entrepreneurial ventures including multiple Kickstarter campaigns. Mikaella Go, an experienced entrepreneur who immigrated to Canada from the Philippines as a teenager, partnered with Yu on prior projects involving product launches and crowdfunding. Andy Wang, originally from Taiwan, contributed expertise in textile manufacturing and footwear innovation, complementing the team's entrepreneurial focus.^[3][10][11] The initial motivation stemmed from the founders' frustration with traditional waterproof footwear, which they found heavy, clunky, and uncomfortable, often leading to "wet socks" during Vancouver's frequent rainy weather. Living in a city known for its persistent drizzle, Go, Yu, and Wang sought to create stylish, lightweight, breathable knit shoes that were fully waterproof without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics, addressing a gap in the market for everyday urban footwear suitable for all seasons. This vision contrasted sharply with existing options like rubber boots or water-resistant sneakers that compromised on style or functionality.^[6][11][3] Pre-launch development involved extensive research into knit fabrics and waterproof membranes, as the co-founders—lacking formal backgrounds in chemistry or materials science—taught themselves manufacturing processes and experimented with prototypes in Yu's garage. They developed the patented Dyma-tex technology, a porous polyurethane membrane integrated into the knit upper, to achieve seamless waterproofing while maintaining breathability. Initial testing occurred in Vancouver's challenging rainy climate, ensuring the prototypes could handle wet conditions without leaking or becoming cumbersome.^[12][6] Vessi debuted on Kickstarter on November 20, 2018, as a Vancouver-based direct-to-consumer brand, quickly achieving early funding success by raising $120,000 in just two hours and ultimately surpassing $1 million in total pledges. This crowdfunding campaign validated the prototype's appeal, enabling production scaling and market entry with the world's first 100% waterproof knit sneakers.^[13][3][10]

Growth and milestones

Following its successful 2018 Kickstarter launch, Vessi experienced rapid post-crowdfunding growth, establishing itself as one of North America's fastest-growing sneaker companies by leveraging innovative waterproof technology and direct-to-consumer marketing. The brand quickly scaled operations from Vancouver, achieving the milestone of commercializing the world's first 100% waterproof knit sneaker, which differentiated it in the competitive footwear market.^{[14][15][7][16]} Key milestones in Vessi's expansion included the opening of its first permanent retail store in Vancouver in late 2022, marking a shift from purely online sales to physical presence. This was followed by a second store in Toronto in 2023, with further retail openings across Canada. By October 2025, the company had opened additional stores in locations including Richmond and more in Toronto, alongside a refreshed flagship store at Metropolis at Metrotown. Vessi also announced plans for its first U.S. store in Bellevue, Washington, set to open in winter 2025, as part of its North American expansion. Initially focused on Canada and the United States, Vessi's international market entry emphasized North American growth, building a network of select retail partners to broaden accessibility.^{[17][14][18][19][20][21]} In 2025, Vessi unveiled a refreshed brand identity centered on "rain and water magic," which rolled out across its Canadian and U.S. stores and online platforms to support ongoing expansion. This rebranding highlighted the company's evolution toward a more versatile, weather-embracing aesthetic while reinforcing its core waterproof innovation. In April 2025, Vessi appointed Lorrin Pascoe, a marketing veteran from Sonos, as its Chief Marketing Officer to drive further growth. The company also entered partnerships, such as with Ledgestone for disc golf events, and teased a new waterproof footwear product in November 2025.^{[22][23][24][25][26][21]} Vessi began with bootstrapping through its Kickstarter campaign and has since pursued modest funding opportunities, including discussions with potential investors in 2024 to fuel further scaling. As a footwear manufacturing entity profiled on Crunchbase, the company reported $65 million in revenue from its primary online store in 2024, signaling strong valuation growth without major disclosed venture rounds.^[5][27][28] During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vessi sustained online loyalty through community-driven initiatives, including donating over 2,000 pairs of shoes to frontline healthcare workers and contributing profits to relief efforts, which unexpectedly tripled sales in early 2020. These efforts, guided by customer input, also involved sending 500,000 masks to hospitals across North America and supporting broader charitable causes.^{[29][30][31][32][33]}

Products

Core sneaker line

Vessi's core sneaker line consists of flagship waterproof knit models designed for everyday urban use, including the Cityscape, Everyday, and Weekend sneakers. The Cityscape, the original model launched in 2018 via Kickstarter, offers a lightweight design weighing just 6.7 ounces per shoe, providing cloud-like comfort suitable for city commutes and casual walks.^[34] The Everyday sneakers, introduced in 2019, adopt an athletic style tailored for active lifestyles, such as nature walks or gym sessions, while maintaining versatility across terrains.^[34] The Weekend sneakers, released in summer 2020, draw inspiration from 90s court shoes, featuring a relaxed silhouette for work-to-weekend transitions and machine-washable construction for easy maintenance.^[34] All core models emphasize 100% waterproofing enabled by patented Dyma-tex knit technology, ensuring breathability and preventing wet socks in rainy conditions, alongside fully vegan materials for ethical appeal.^[35] They prioritize all-day comfort through features like cushioning midsoles and arch support, making them ideal for individuals in wet climates who seek stylish, practical footwear without sacrificing functionality.^[34] Targeted at urban dwellers facing frequent rain, these sneakers fulfill Vessi's foundational promise of eliminating soggy feet during puddle-splashing outings. Design variants across the line include a wide array of colors such as Asphalt Black, Marble White, and seasonal hues like Sky Blue, with sizing options from narrow to wide fits to accommodate diverse foot shapes.^[36] Seasonal releases introduce limited-edition patterns and collaborations, keeping the collection fresh while focusing on timeless urban aesthetics.^[34] Product evolution has been driven by customer feedback, incorporating enhancements like the VZero2 midsoles in the 2021 Everyday Move variant for superior cushioning and improved arch support, addressing needs for prolonged wear during active days.^[34] These updates reflect Vessi's commitment to refining comfort based on user input from early Kickstarter backers and ongoing reviews.^[37]

Expansions and accessories

Vessi has diversified its offerings with a range of accessories tailored to complement its waterproof footwear, including socks, gloves, beanies, and bags. The sock collection features moisture-wicking options available in multipacks, promoted with incentives like "buy two, get one free" to encourage pairing with sneakers for enhanced comfort during wet conditions.^[35] Waterproof Forecast Gloves and All Weather Beanies provide hand and head protection against rain and cold, integrating seamlessly with the brand's all-weather ethos by using similar breathable, quick-drying materials.^[38] These items, along with lightweight bags for carrying essentials, support sneaker maintenance by allowing easy access to cleaning tools, as Vessi recommends hand-washing or machine-washing compatible fabrics to preserve waterproofing.^[39] All accessories are 100% vegan, aligning with the brand's commitment to animal-free materials.^[40] Beyond core sneakers, Vessi expanded into non-sneaker categories starting in the early 2020s, introducing fully waterproof boots and casual shoes to address varied weather needs. The men's boot line includes the Stormburst High Top for versatile urban wear, the Classic Chelsea for slip-on ease, and the Alta High Top for added ankle support, all featuring the same knit upper technology as sneakers but with extended coverage for rainier seasons.^[41] Women's equivalents, such as the Uptown Chelsea, offer similar functionality in low-profile designs. Casual expansions encompass flats and slip-ons, like the Everyday Move series, providing lightweight alternatives for daily activities without compromising on waterproof performance.^[42] These additions, launched post-2018, broaden Vessi's appeal for full-day wear in unpredictable climates.^[34] Limited-edition releases and collaborations have further enriched the accessory and expansion lineup, often tied to weather themes and sustainability. The 2025 Pride collection features artist-designed sneakers with matching bandanas, donating $20 per pair to Brave Trails, an LGBTQ+ youth summer camp, while emphasizing vegan materials.^[43] Seasonal drops, such as rain-ready limited editions certified through customer reviews, include complementary vegan add-ons like themed socks or beanies to complete outfits.^[44] Earlier collaborations, like the 2024 Year of the Dragon series, previewed this approach by incorporating cultural motifs into waterproof accessories.^[45] These expansions have responded to customer demands for comprehensive weather protection and gifting versatility, with reviews highlighting the convenience of bundled accessories for travel and everyday use. Trustpilot feedback praises the gloves and socks for matching sneaker durability, enabling full outfits that eliminate the need for separate rain gear.^[46] By 2025, such diversification has supported omnichannel growth, including retail pop-ups, to meet preferences for complete, sustainable ensembles.^[47]

Technology

Waterproofing innovation

Vessi's waterproofing innovation centers on Dyma-tex®, a patented technology that integrates a waterproof membrane directly into a flexible knit fabric, enabling 100% waterproof sneakers without the stiffness associated with traditional waterproof footwear.^[48] This approach uses thousands of nano-sized pores in the engineered knit to repel water molecules while permitting sweat and heat to escape, ensuring breathability during extended wear. The technology is PFAS-free, avoiding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly used in chemical sprays for waterproofing.^[49] Unlike conventional methods relying on chemical sprays or rigid coatings, Dyma-tex® achieves impermeability through the precise construction of four soft, flexible layers woven together, eliminating the need for additional treatments.^[48] The development of Dyma-tex® addressed key challenges in creating a knit material that remains breathable yet fully impermeable, overcoming the limitations of earlier waterproof technologies that often compromised comfort for protection.^[6] Engineers focused on combining hydrophobic outer layers with a central waterproof membrane, iterating on yarn flexibility to maintain a sock-like fit without sacrificing durability.^[48] Testing involved submersion trials and pressure simulations, confirming the material's ability to withstand full water immersion without leakage, far exceeding standard water-resistant benchmarks used by competitors.^[48] These metrics, including resistance to water penetration under dynamic conditions, validated the technology's performance in real-world scenarios like rain or puddles.^[48] In comparison to industry standards, Dyma-tex® differentiates Vessi from rubberized soles or treated leathers, which can feel bulky and restrict airflow, by offering the first fully knit waterproof sneaker upon its 2018 launch.^[50] It contrasts with Gore-Tex, a common membrane added post-construction, by embedding the waterproofing into the knit during manufacturing for seamless integration and enhanced flexibility.^[50] This innovation stemmed from research and development efforts starting prior to the 2018 Kickstarter debut, with subsequent refinements improving long-term durability against abrasion and maintaining odor resistance through the breathable structure.^[6] The technology is protected by U.S. Patent No. 11,607,005, granted in 2023, which details a moisture-permeable waterproof shoe upper incorporating an inner sleeve and outsole for comprehensive protection. Ongoing R&D has focused on scaling production while preserving the membrane's integrity, ensuring consistent performance across product lines.^[48]

Materials and design features

Vessi shoes are constructed using 100% vegan synthetic materials, including breathable knits and vegan leather alternatives that prioritize ethical production without animal-derived components.^[40] Many models incorporate recycled elements, such as Global Recycled Standard-certified polyester in the uppers, contributing to reduced environmental impact while maintaining durability.^[51] The cushioning features ultralight EVA foam midsoles, which provide rebound and support while keeping each shoe under 10 ounces—typically around 6.7 ounces—for a featherweight feel suitable for extended wear.^[52][53] Design principles emphasize practicality and hygiene, with many styles featuring seamless knit construction that eliminates irritating seams and allows for machine-washability in cold water followed by air drying.^[54] Ergonomic elements include flexible, 4-way stretch uppers for natural foot movement and anti-slip rubber outsoles with non-marking grip for secure traction on various surfaces.^[55][56] Aesthetically, Vessi's designs have evolved from minimalist, urban-inspired silhouettes to a broader range of modern styles, including low-tops, high-tops, and slip-ons that blend seamlessly with casual and semi-formal attire.^[57] The brand offers versatile color palettes—from neutrals like asphalt black and ivory white to vibrant patterns and seasonal hues—enhancing everyday adaptability without compromising on sleek, contemporary lines.^[36] Comfort is engineered for all-day wear, with moisture-wicking interiors in the mesh-lined designs that help manage internal perspiration and prevent dampness buildup, even during prolonged activity.^[58] Independent reviews confirm the shoes' ability to support extended use, such as 8-10 hour shifts, thanks to padded tongues, heel cushions, and the overall sock-like fit that molds to the foot.^[55][54]

Business model

Direct-to-consumer strategy

Vessi adopted a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model from its inception, launching initially through a Kickstarter campaign in late 2017 that raised funds for production and pre-orders of its waterproof knit sneakers, before transitioning to a dedicated e-commerce platform in 2018.^[59][60] This approach allowed the company to bypass traditional retail intermediaries, enabling lower pricing—starting at around $99 for early models—and fostering direct customer feedback loops that informed product iterations, such as refinements to breathability and fit based on backer input.^[61][21] Central to Vessi's DTC strategy are targeted marketing tactics centered on digital channels, with social media campaigns highlighting the brand's mission to "inspire happiness in all-weather" through visuals of users navigating rain, snow, and urban environments without compromising style.^[11] The company leverages influencer partnerships, particularly with micro-influencers on platforms like TikTok, to generate authentic user-generated content (UGC) that showcases real-world waterproof performance, such as puddle-jumping videos or all-season wear tests, amplifying reach without heavy reliance on paid ads during peak growth phases.^[62][63] These efforts emphasize community engagement over traditional advertising, as evidenced by Vessi's temporary pause on ad spend in 2019 after rapid sell-outs to prioritize inventory scaling.^[64] Customer experience forms a cornerstone of the DTC model, with policies including free standard shipping on orders over $110 within North America and complimentary 30-day returns or exchanges to reduce purchase barriers and build trust.^[49][35] Personalization is achieved through the shoes' flexible knit design, which molds to individual foot shapes for a custom-like fit, though options like monogramming are not standard. This frictionless online journey supports high conversion rates by allowing easy size trials and adjustments via digital tools, such as AR virtual try-ons introduced in 2020.^[65] The DTC strategy drove significant digital growth, with online sales comprising the majority of revenue—estimated at 85-90% as of 2024—and experiencing a tripling of sales starting in April 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, fueled by increased e-commerce demand and responsive community listening that adapted offerings to remote lifestyles.^[30][66][14] This online-first focus enabled rapid scaling, including initiatives like donating 40% of profits to frontline worker masks, which resonated with customers and boosted loyalty without physical retail dependencies at the time.^[29]

Retail expansion and partnerships

Vessi opened its first physical retail store in 2022 at Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby, British Columbia, serving as the brand's flagship location to test and refine its brick-and-mortar presence. This pilot store marked a strategic shift from its direct-to-consumer origins, allowing customers to experience the waterproof knit sneakers firsthand in a dedicated space. By the end of 2024, Vessi had expanded to four owned retail locations across Canada, including additional outlets at CF Richmond Centre in Richmond, British Columbia; Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga, Ontario; and a pop-up at CF Toronto Eaton Centre in Toronto, Ontario. These sites focused on high-traffic malls in urban areas to enhance brand accessibility and visibility. In 2025, Vessi continued its retail growth with plans for U.S. entry, including a new store at Bellevue Square in Bellevue, Washington, scheduled to open that winter, targeting rainy Pacific Northwest markets. The brand's hybrid expansion model integrates physical stores with its online platform, using in-store elements like shoe trade-in programs to bridge digital and offline shopping while boosting customer engagement and loyalty. This omnichannel approach aims to solidify market position by combining the convenience of e-commerce with tactile retail experiences. Vessi has formed distribution partnerships with select retailers in Canada and the United States to broaden product availability beyond owned stores, with styles varying by location to meet regional demands. Notable collaborations include a capsule collection with multidisciplinary artist Cynthia Tran Vo to celebrate the Vancouver flagship opening, featuring exclusive designs that highlighted the store launch. For retail distribution, Vessi works with wholesalers and partners accessible via its wholesale program, supporting gradual international entry while maintaining control over brand presentation. To support global retail scaling, Vessi has addressed supply chain challenges by diversifying sourcing and streamlining production processes, ensuring consistent inventory for new stores amid footwear industry disruptions. These adaptations enable reliable stock for international expansion, though the brand remains primarily focused on North American markets as of late 2025.

Sustainability and impact

Environmental initiatives

Vessi footwear is designed with 100% vegan materials throughout its production process, avoiding any animal-derived components such as leather or glues, which aligns with broader environmental goals by reducing the ecological impact associated with animal agriculture in the footwear industry.^[67] The company's knit uppers incorporate some recycled materials, contributing to lower resource demands compared to virgin synthetics, while its patented Dyma-tex technology enables waterproofing without PFAS chemicals or additional coatings, minimizing environmental pollution from "forever chemicals."^[68][67] In manufacturing, Vessi employs processes that use 30% less water and 600% less energy per pair than conventional shoe production methods, primarily due to the efficient knit construction and water-based adhesives that replace traditional solvent-based ones.^[69] This approach also results in 97% less trim waste, as the seamless design reduces material scraps during assembly.^[70] To address carbon emissions, Vessi focuses on mindful manufacturing practices and partners with certified suppliers adhering to standards like Global Recycled Standard (GRS) for recycled content and Oeko-Tex for chemical safety, though the company has not publicly detailed specific carbon neutrality targets.^[67] For waste management, Vessi utilizes recyclable packaging for all shipments and offers an end-of-life take-back program through its partnership with Soles4Souls Canada, allowing customers to return worn shoes for repurposing or recycling, which helps divert footwear from landfills.^[67] While Vessi emphasizes transparency in its supply chain via supplier certifications such as Bluesign for eco-responsible textiles and ISO 14001 for environmental management, it has not released comprehensive annual sustainability reports.^[67] These initiatives reflect Vessi's commitment to integrating environmental considerations into its direct-to-consumer model, though independent assessments rate its overall environmental performance as "not good enough" as of 2022 due to limited disclosure on full carbon impacts.^[68]

Social responsibility efforts

Vessi has demonstrated community engagement through various initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the company introduced a "pay-what-you-can" model to support customers while raising funds for essential supplies. This effort enabled donations of thousands of pairs of shoes to frontline healthcare workers and 500,000 surgical masks to hospitals across Canada and the United States. Additionally, Vessi launched the Vessi Community Fund, providing micro-grants to "everyday heroes" identified through customer feedback, fostering a collaborative approach to local support. More recently, the company donated 600 pairs of shoes to a non-profit serving Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, addressing immediate community needs. In terms of ethical manufacturing, Vessi partners with certified factories that prioritize fair labor standards, including equitable wages and safe working conditions, as part of its commitment to transparent supply chains. Vessi's vegan ethos further extends this responsibility, with all products made from 100% animal-free materials using water-based adhesives and engineered alternatives to leather and suede, promoting cruelty-free production without animal-derived components. Philanthropic activities form a core aspect of Vessi's social efforts, including partnerships with organizations focused on water access and empowerment. Through collaborations with charity:water, Vessi has donated over CAD$285,000, funding 78 clean water projects in 16 countries and providing more than 220 million liters of clean water. The company also supports Soles4Souls by redistributing shoes and clothing to create jobs and break cycles of poverty, and partners with Water First to address water challenges in Indigenous Canadian communities. Other initiatives include the annual Giving Week, where 98% of participating customers contributed the maximum donation amount to fully fund projects like a clean water initiative in Mali. Vessi promotes diversity and inclusion through targeted programs and product lines that celebrate underrepresented groups. The 2022 Pride Capsule Collection featured sneakers in Pride Flag colors with accents highlighting BIPOC and trans communities, with $5 from each pair donated to the Marsha P. Johnson Institute and PFlag Canada Foundation to support Black trans individuals and family resources. The Colours of Us project collaborated with a Vancouver high school to create an inclusive mural acknowledging LGBTQ+2S identities, aiming to boost student morale and visibility. Additionally, Vessi supports One Girl Can, an organization advancing gender equality by providing education to girls in Kenya, empowering future female leaders.