Are VIVAIA Shoes *Really* That Comfortable? Cosmo Editors Tested the Viral Brand
*Drumroll, pls* Our official review is in.
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If you've been on the internet lately (which you probs have been, considering you found your way here!), you've likely seen ads from VIVAIA—the viral sustainable shoe brand—all over your feeds. Initially, I rolled my eyes at the promise of heels that felt as comfortable as sneakers (I mean, running heels? A nice thought, but unlikely). But eventually, I caved and gave the brand a try for myself—and I'm so glad I did because I discovered just about the only heels I can wear all day without dealing with sore, aching feet.
My first introduction to VIVAIA was through the Elvia Chunky Heel (which is, sadly, no longer available on the site but is very similar to the Tamia style). I wore my new heels (without breaking them in first, mind you) to a wedding, where I was on my feet and on the dance floor for hours...and also five months pregnant...and I was comfortable the! whole! time! Sorcery, truly. Since then, I've invested in boots, flats, and even more heels from the brand, and I have yet to be disappointed.
But before I convinced everyone else to jump on board with me, my fellow Cosmo editors and I personally tested and reviewed some of VIVAIA's most popular styles to make sure these comfy shoes are really worth your coin (you're welcome!).
Our top picks for VIVAIA shoes:
If you're interested in learning a lil more before you shop, here's a quick rundown on the brand:
What is VIVAIA?
Founded in 2020, direct-to-consumer footwear brand VIVAIA is all about eco-friendly comfort and style. Its shoes are made using knit fabric from recycled plastic bottles, so they're super stretchy (and some styles are even machine-washable or water-repellent!) and comfortably mold to your feet. VIVAIA's sustainability efforts go beyond its recycled and nature-derived materials, the company also uses a low-waste production process while designing its footwear to reduce waste and minimize its environmental footprint—all while making v chic shoes that have attracted celeb fans like Emma Roberts, Selena Gomez, Alexa Chung, and Jenna Ortega, among many others.
Now keep scrolling to see which of VIVAIA's bestselling flats, loafers, boots, heels, and sneakers earned our seal of approval.
Pros
- Padded back heel helps prevent ankle chafing
- Provide a lil height without putting strain on your feet
Cons
- Run a bit smol, so you may want to size up
- Can take a few wears to break them in
Everyone from Jenna Ortega to Selena Gomez has been spotted wearing VIVAIA's "running heels," as they've been dubbed, so you know they gotta be good. I <3 the cute toe-cap detail (it's giving Chanel, no?) and that mid-heel height, which can easily take you from the office to happy hour. Plus, the shock-absorbing heel rebound and pressure-relieving insole will keep your feet feeling happy all day.
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 1.77"
- Colors: 11 options
- Machine washable? No
Glowing Customer Review: "Bought the Julie Pros because I'm a consultant and I walk a lot at work. These shoes are so cushioned and very COMFY to wear (you will know once put them on). Plus, the design is so cute that it always elevates my outfits! Love it."
Editor Review
According to Cosmo Shopping Editor Hannah Oh, "The small heel is really manageable and easy to walk in! Oh, and the sole is sooooooooooo nice. It’s quilted and cushioned with a rebound heel and arch support, which feels incredible on the feet. They’re a great office shoe and look veryyyy polished with a pair of black pants!"
Pros
- Won't squish your toes, despite the pointed design
- Impressive arch support for a flat shoe
Cons
- May not be the best fit for wider feet
- Some noticed gaping on the sides while wearing these
I'll be honest: As chic as they look, pointed-toe shoes are kind of my nightmare. I like a toe box with ample room—but my curiosity got the better of me when I saw these flexible lil flats. Spoiler alert: They are just as comfy as all those reviews claim. I love the cushiony, diamond-patterned insoles and the stretchy knit uppers, which allow for swelling throughout the day (and the fact that they're machine washable is def a big plus).
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 0.59"
- Colors: 23 options
- Machine washable? Yes
Glowing Customer Review: "These are so comfortable! I recently had knee surgery and I can’t wear heels anymore but wanted a fashionable pair of flats that would be as comfortable as wearing sneakers. These are definitely what I’ve been looking for! They are pricey but well worth the money!"
Editor Review
I always feel so sophisticated when I wear my Aria Walker flats to work (and they still look good as new, even though I chose the Almond color). I usually wear them with no-show socks, but they're just as comfy without—and yes, I can confirm they're true to size!
—Corinne Sullivan, Editor
Pros
- Structured but still so lightweight
- Many found them comfy from the very first wear
Cons
- Don't have the best arch support, per testers
Loafers that feel like slippers? You have my attention!! Featuring a wide toe box, a padded heel patch to prevent uncomfy rubbing, and tons of different embroidery patterns, these slip-ons are ideal for anyone who hates the feel of a heavy, clunky loafer—and yep, like most VIVAIA shoes, they have stretchy knit uppers made from recycled plastic bottles and are totally machine-washable.
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 0.34"
- Colors: 21 options
- Machine washable? Yes
Glowing Customer Review: "These are wonderful. I wore them right out of the box on a day that I had quite a bit of walking to do. Typically, I would try them out more slowly, but I was pleasantly surprised with their comfort all day long."
Editor Review
"Obviously, leopard is so in right now, and I loveee how subtle these shoes are so I can participate in the trend without looking like I'm cosplaying a Cheetah Girl," says Cosmo Associate Editor Chaise Sanders. "My fave part about the shoes is that they're super lightweight, and it takes literally zero minutes to break them in, unlike some of my other flats. Overall a great shoe to wear around the office and commuting, but I could see myself needing more to add an insert in the long run."
Pros
- Mesh knit fabric keeps feet cool and ventilated
- Adjustable back strap allows you to get a secure fit
Cons
- Pointed toe can feel a tad stiff initially
- Some noted that these run a slightly large
Slingbacks are ev-ery-where rn, and these cuties are a great way to hop on the trend. The unique droplet-shaped heel offers tons of support while still looking ~dainty~, and the ventilated uppers will keep your feet from overheating throughout the day. Plus, those thick, adjustable back straps will make these bbs don't slip off your feet with every step (no twisted ankles here!).
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 2"
- Colors: 7 options
- Machine washable? No
Glowing Customer Review: "Very comfy shoes. I’ve some problems with my feet and am not able to wear heels at all or even regular shoes besides trainers. I could wear my slingbacks for a whole day in the office without any problem."
Editor Review
"These days, I have switched out my super high heels for shorter styles in the name of comfort," Cosmo Associate Editor Siena Gagliano says. "These slingbacks are ventilated so my feet don't get sweaty, and the teardrop shape of the heel is super unique and super sturdy for walking. But my favorite part is the adjustable heel straps. I often have trouble keeping a slingback on without constantly having to readjust, but with these, I never run into that problem."
Pros
- Water-repellent design is v clutch
- Warm without feeling *too* hot
Cons
- Likely not the best choice for those with wider calves
- A few reviewers complained about these bunching around their ankles
Introducing: the knee-high boots of my dreams. Made with water-repellent yarn uppers and cozy terry lining, these stunners feel like sweaters for your feet and can really stand up to the elements, so no need to worry about inclement weather! Other perks include the roomy square toes, sculptural heels, pressure-relieving insoles, and the fact that you can easily roll down the calf for a whole new look.
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 2.16"
- Colors: 5 options
- Machine washable? No
Glowing Customer Review: "These have been popping up in my social media for months. I finally decided to give them a try. LOVE them. Perfect fit and so incredibly comfortable."
Editor Review
According to Hannah Oh, "As someone who No Longer Wears Most Heels, I miss the styling power of a really sleek, tall black boot. This wool pair is shockingly comfortable—I’ve dashed across streets in them, carried heavy bags with them on, and spent hours walking through Central Park with a date without complaining about my feet hurting (they didn’t). The upper is stretchy, so they won’t be too suffocating, and the water-repellant wool fabric is cozy without being sweaty."
Pros
- Machine-washable, so you can keep them clean more easily
- Allow you to slip on and off for convenience
Cons
- Footbed itself isn't specifically made for wide feet, so keep that in mind
- Some found the laces to be too long
I'm always on the hunt for actually-comfortable white sneakers, and let me tell ya, these more than fit the bill. Despite being made with recycled plastic bottles, these sneaks still feel very substantial, and they have the extra benefit of being wide-foot-friendly and water-repellent. That flexible back heel lets you slip 'em on and off without untying them (bless), and you can even throw them in the wash when they need a refresh!
- Sizes: 5-11.5
- Heel: N/a
- Colors: 9 options
- Machine washable? Yes
Glowing Customer Review: "I have problem feet and bought these sneakers in hopes of comfort for a trip to Ireland. They are the best purchase I have ever made in shoes! I was able to walk everywhere pain-free! They offer excellent support, and the wide toe box gives my problem toes plenty of room. I am going to order them in another color to have a second pair."
Editor Review
"I was a little worried my wide feet wouldn't fit into these sneakers, but they were comfortable from the very first try," says Cosmo Editor Olivia Truffaut-Wong. "The super-stretchy knit upper expanded to accommodate my feet while keeping its shape, so I actually thought they had a slimming effect on my foot. The laces are elastic, so you can just slip the shoes on and off, which I fully love (though the laces are a little long). All in all, I find myself reaching for these more and more as we get into fall."
Pros
- Thick block heel helps with walkability
- Water-repellent fabric is a plus
Cons
- Pointed toe isn't for everyone
- No zipper, so you have to slip them on
Listen, when I hear "three-inch heel," I don't usually think "comfortable." However! Testers were so impressed with just how walkable these Western-style booties proved to be. The thick block heel and pressure-reliving insole keep your feet feeling supported with each step—and best of all, they're water-repellent, so you can wear them in snow, sleet, or rain without fear of ruining 'em.
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel: 3"
- Colors: 3 options
- Machine washable? No
Glowing Customer Review: "The moment I saw these on the website I ordered. These boots are beautiful. They are extremely comfortable and stylish. It takes a little bit to get them on, but once on they fit perfectly. Definitely purchase."
Editor Review
“These boots fit like a glove from the moment I first slipped them on," Cosmo Senior Editor Lauren Fisher raves. "I have wider feet, so pointed-toe shoes can sometimes be tricky for me, but I had no issue with these. I love the chunky block heel, which I found so comfortable to walk in, and while I was worried the soft fabric wouldn’t look sleek enough for my liking, the silhouette still makes them look and feel elevated.”
Pros
- Adjustable strap helps you get a comfy fit
- Slight heel offers *just* enough support
Cons
- Only a few color options available for extended sizes
- Some found they needed a few wears to break these in
The trick to finding comfortable Mary Jane shoes: getting a pair with 1) enough arch support and 2) an adjustable instep strap. Luckily, these bbs check both boxes, all while looking very, very cute. I'm obsessed with the square toe and subtle ribbed design—and if you're someone with wider feet, you'll appreciate that the Margot is available in extended sizes as well.
- Sizes: 5-11, Standard or Wide
- Heel: 0.34"
- Colors: 20 options (*available in 4 colors for wide sizes)
- Machine washable? Yes
Glowing Customer Review: "Incredible shoes! I decided to invest in these as I always struggle to find a comfortable pair of Mary Janes. I read good reviews so thought I’d risk it...and the shoes are indeed incredible and SO comfortable! Material is stretchy and does not rub my heel. Really happy I finally found a pair of stylish Mary Janes I can wear all day long."
Editor Review
According to Hannah Oh, "Red was THE hottest color last fall and winter, so I had to invest in a pair of bright red flats (and they turned out to be the most worn 'neutral' shoe I owned because they went with literally Every. Single. Outfit.). The tiny, tiny heel helped with shock absorption (no heel pain!), the square toe felt nice and roomy, and there’s a little padding on the back to prevent blisters. Can’t emphasize enough how breathable, soft, and comfortable these flats are!!"
Pros and cons of VIVAIA:
Pros
- Quality and affordability: Though VIVAIA shoes are not cheap by any means, the prices are pretty reasonable considering the quality. For instance, Rothy's Max Square Mary Janes (which are also made from recycled materials) are very similar to VIVAIA's Margot Mary-Jane, but they're priced at $159, while the Margot is priced at $97.
- Return policy: Finding the perfect fit with shoes is tough, especially when you're shopping online. That's why I love VIVAIA's 30-day returns and exchange policy, which gives you a month to swap out your shoes if they just aren't working for you.
- Customer reviews: One of the best things about the VIVAIA site is the thousands of real-life customer reviews it has accumulated. Tons of testers share photos and honest reviews to help you make your selection (and with many styles also available on Nordstrom and Amazon, you can get access to even more reviews!).
Cons
- Limited wide-foot styles: While VIVAIA has many styles that it considers "wide-feet friendly," there are currently only a few products that are actually made to accommodate sizes D-EE, and even those tend to be pretty limited with the colors that are available. (The Margot 2.0, for example, comes in nearly 50 color options, but you can currently only get 11 of those colors in size A-EE.)
- Sizing inconsistencies: My biggest gripe with VIVAIA is that the sizing can vary widely depending on the style. In my own experience, I've found that flats tend to run true to size while heels run a bit small—but that isn't the case for everyone, so make sure you read those reviews and take advantage of the return policy if need be!
Why trust 'Cosmo'?
Cosmo's team of digital fashion and lifestyle experts have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing, accessory, home goods, and gadget picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
For this specific story, Cosmo editors wear-tested and tried some of the best-selling VIVAIA pieces and products over a period of time, judging the fit, performance, comfort, and durability.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
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