The co-founder and CEO of Vancouver-based footwear company Vessi has revealed exciting news for Canadian consumers: a new waterproof shoe is currently in development.
From Wet Socks to Waterproof Innovation
Andy Wang, who leads the Canadian brand, shared details about the upcoming launch, emphasizing the company's ongoing commitment to solving a problem familiar to all Vancouver residents: wet feet. The brand's entire existence was inspired by the city's consistently rainy climate and the unpleasant experience of soggy socks.
"Our goal is to make life easier and to inspire happiness in the rain," Wang stated, highlighting the company's core mission.
The Technology Behind Dry Feet
What sets Vessi apart in the crowded footwear market is its proprietary material technology. When the company began, the necessary material for a comfortable, waterproof knit shoe did not exist. This led to the development of Dyma-tex, a patented waterproof knit material created in Vancouver.
Wang explained that before Vessi, consumers were typically forced to choose between heavy hiking boots or inflexible rubber boots to stay dry. Dyma-tex represents a third option—a soft, flexible knit that behaves like a sneaker but incorporates a flexible membrane that seals out water. The CEO proudly noted that the company's waterproof testing standards are roughly three times the industry average.
Vessi's Evolution and Future
The brand's journey started on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, building a loyal community through direct customer engagement. Wang acknowledged that after initial growth, the company is now re-entering a product-focused phase dubbed "Vessi 2.0."
This new chapter involves significant reinvestment in design and functionality. Parts of the product creation process are being moved to Portland, Oregon, to leverage the region's world-class footwear talent. This strategic shift also includes a recent partnership with Studio Noyes, aimed at strengthening the brand's premium product offerings and elevating its overall design language.
The upcoming shoe launch represents the next step in Vessi's mission to create footwear for everyday life that eliminates the need to check the weather forecast before heading out the door.
