Vessi Weekend Sneaker Review: Lightweight Waterproof Comfort for Travel

Let’s dive into the Vessi Weekend Sneaker - a lightweight, waterproof sneaker that combines traditional sneaker comfort with 100% waterproof protection. For both me and Dan, the Weekend Sneaker runs the smallest of what we’ve tried from the rainproof travel shoe brand Vessi.

In this review, learn about the style, how I think it looks and performs during wet weather trips and why it just might be the one single pair of shoes we need to pack when we get outdoors for the weekend.

Why I chose the Vessi Weekend Sneaker

I opted for the Vessi Weekend Sneaker because they remind me of classic sneakers with an athletic flair. I have worn them in outfits with denim jeans, canvas shorts, mid-legth and maxi dresses and even leggings or joggers. I find that they’re super easy to slide on and off, and they go with mostly anything.

They’re hyper lightweight, as far as sneakers go, and with a minimal shape and design, they actually pack down pretty small (they can be compressed in a shoe cube) in luggage. And that’s if I’m not already wearing them on the plane ride to my destination!

When I choose my travel shoes, I have to be wise. If the forecast says rain, well, hmm: sandals won’t work, and neither will any leather or upscale materials that’ll get ruined in wet weather. I need a do-it-all shoe, and that’s where I’ve learned about Vessi. The Weekend shoes are casual, sure: but they’re great for leisure trips that have a hint of rainfall in the forecast.

First impressions and initial testing

When the Weekend Sneakers arrived, I was immediately impressed by how lightweight they felt. The waterproof material felt soft and flexible, not stiff like traditional waterproof materials. This was a pleasant surprise, considering I was not sure wha tto expect at all.

With our intial testing in some puddles in the neighborhood, we splashed in puddles, and walked straight through them. We really messed around with water on the ground after it rained. We watched the rain bead up and then roll right off our Vessi shoes.

The whole Vessi concept is still so incredible to me: completely waterproof shoes, disguised as everyday sneakers.

What makes the Weekend Sneaker special

The Weekend Sneaker is Vessi’s classic sneaker, and one of the original Vessi shoes. It’s an everyday essential, especially if you live somewhere where it rains half the year (Seattle and Vancouver!) or if you frequently travel to places where rain is a possibility (I’m thinking everywhere but deserts!).

• 100% waterproof Dyma-tex® technology that keeps feet dry in any weather condition
• Lightweight and breathable design that doesn’t feel like traditional rain boots
• Sneaker-boot hybrid style that works with everything from jeans and leggings to dresses
• Vegan and PFAS-free materials

Waterproof performance

In these photos taken in a rain puddle, my Weekend Sneakers have water beading up on all the waterproof material. I tried to get a photo of them with splashes, but they repel water so fast, I couldn’t even do it.

The waterproof protection was equally impressive. We walked through puddles that would have soaked my regular sneakers, and my feet stayed completely dry. The water beaded up on the surface and rolled right off, just like the other Vessi styles I’ve tried.

Perfect for travel

Shoes like the Weekend Sneaker look cute and casual with outfits from sweatpants to dresses. They’re great for travel because if there’s rain in the forecast, you can minimize the shoes you bring and have Vessi shoes double as your walking shoes or sneakers for wet days.

Fit and sizing

Here’s what I found: for the Weekend Sneaker, they are tight in a 6. What I really need is a 6.5, but they do not come in half sizes. There are only a few Vessi styles that are currently made in half sizes (not sure why), like the Tidal sneaker for both me and women.

I would say that for both me and Dan, the Weekend Sneaker runs the smallest of what we’ve tried. I would say that on the whole, Vessi shoes run big, but unfortunately, it’s also style by style that varies.

I talk more about my experience all over Vessi sizing at our Vessi travel shoe review, where I deep dive into all the styles I’ve tried and the sizes that have fit me, across those (spoiler: both size 6, and maybe 7).

Downfalls and criticisms

I have a few critiques of the Vessi Weekend shoe.

First, because they are a sneaker, I feel that they lack sole support and especially arch support. As I’m someone who has low arches, and foot pronation, I look for shoes that have arch support and cushion. Vessi doesn’t really tick either of those boxes in any of their styles. The Weekend Sneaker, being an all-day walking shoe, gives me pause because I’ve gotten footaches after walking miles and miles while traveling and sightseeing in new cities, if I’m wearing shoes that lack proper support for my arches and mid soles.

Second is the sizing: it’s just pretty confusing. My size has been here and there so many times with Vessi, and I’ve done quite a few exchanges with their customer service. I find myself to be a 6 in the Classic Chelsea, but I’d need a 6.5 in the Weekend Sneaker to be happy. I’ve tried size 7 for multiple styles and a 7 is too big.

Dan has had better luck with Vessi sizes: he is usually a Men’s 10 with no problem. All in all, your miles may vary, as they say. Keep in mind that you may need to do a return, and if you are stumped, order two pairs and return one.

Quick takeaways

Vessi’s Weekend Sneaker checks so many boxes for “looks good even with jeans” and “performs in wet environments.” I have recommended Vessi shoes, including this classic sneaker, to so many friends and families, as well as travelers I’ve met on the road who have complimented our footwear.

Here is the main summary to know about this specific shoe:

• The Weekend Sneaker runs the smallest of what we’ve tried from Vessi
• They look good and go with mostly anything, even dresses, leggings, jeans and shorts
• 100% waterproof protection that actually works (we tested them in rain puddles)
• Lightweight and breathable design, but no arch support
• Perfect for travel when you need one shoe that can do it all, and they’re lightweight for packing if you do choose to put them into luggage

The Vessi Weekend Sneaker is a great choice for travelers who need waterproof protection without sacrificing style. I hope this review was helpful, with the good, the areas for improvement and the general recommendation of this Vessi rainproof shoe option.