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Since their resurgence last year, I’ve been on the hunt for a fresh pair of flats that are equal parts utilitarian and aesthetically pleasing, and it’s been a more difficult task than one might think. Flats, while lovely, are notoriously unsupportive — it’s right there in the name. But as someone who is constantly on the move and loves to walk, I need to know that I won’t wreck my feet — or the shoes — while going about my daily life.
That said, I want my shoes to be cute and cool as well. When shoe brand Vivaia first came on my radar, I dismissed them as another overly-orthopedic option that sacrificed style for comfort. But I’m pleased to report that I couldn’t have been more wrong. From the moment I stepped into a pair of Vivaia flats, I’ve been delighted by how fun, kicky and devastatingly comfy these shoes are.
Available in a shocking number of colors and patterns, these truly lightweight flats have a square toe, a V-cut upper silhouette and soft, flexible and subtly ribbed fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. I generally lean towards leather flats and was wary that the fabric would make the shoes look and feel cheap or basic, but it couldn’t be further from the truth.
The square toe feels edgy without being too aggressive, and the v-shape adds a some unexpected of visual interest. Best of all, the springy insole and sturdy rubber outer sole make them great for long walks or days spent standing.
I wore my Vivaia shoes on a nearly two mile walk to the office this week and found that I had a bounce in my step the entire way, and I didn’t even need to break them in first. The arch support couldn’t be better, and my ankles felt secure and steady the entire journey without chafing or the creation of any blisters.
And while I’ve seen a few shoe brands out there (like Rothy’s) that have similar designs and fabrics, I think the Vivaia shoes look much more elegant than their counterparts while still providing ample comfort. They really nail the aesthetic in a way that competitors haven’t. I’m also very excited about the fact that they are washable, which is ideal for dealing with city grime.
They’re available in sizes 5–11 in regular and wide widths, and with prices starting at $79, depending on the colorway, they’re a great…
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