Best Vinyl Shoes That Are Clearly The Best Reviewed
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
In this day and age, footwear is no longer just for practicality. It also has to do with fashion. No matter what the occasion is, the shoes not only have to go well with your outfit, but they should also be suitable and appropriate for the occasion.
Recently, vinyl shoes have been gaining popularity. This material is smooth, flexible, and often has a nice glossy finish that gives it a polished appearance. Vinyl shoes are often clear or translucent, which really gives a unique touch to the footwear and can make you stand out from the crowd as exquisite and elegant.
But it's not all about what looks the best. Sometimes, it's also about whether or not the look is suitable for the occasion. That's why a vinyl shoe that is not so "stylish" can also be desirable. Take a plain flat, for example. They're not runway material, but they are excellent for professional environments because they look modest and polished. These are times when style should be reconsidered.
Materials
The quality of the materials used to make a vinyl shoe is crucial to their comfort, durability, and flexibility. Before jumping into what is and isn't high-quality vinyl, we first need to clarify what this material is in the first place.
We are talking about a synthetic resin or a plastic when it comes to vinyl shoes. It is a radical of ethane and can rerfer to a variety of ethylene-base compounds. This material can be seen in fences and gates because it is so durable and will not rot or splinter like wood. When used in vinyl shoes, the same benefit applies - the footwear tends to be long-lasting and will not wear out easily.
There are different types of this material, many of which have very chemical names that you would probably immediately forget. However, the one that's important to remember when it comes to vinyl shoes is PVC. This is an abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride, the type most often seen in vinyl shoes, usually in the outsoles. Its light weight means you carry less bulk when wearing vinyl shoes, and their durability protects your foot from the ground beneath.
In short, look for vinyl shoes with more PVC as opposed to less. This way, you can get the full benefit of their sturdiness and light weight.
Versatility
Different occasions require different kinds of footwear. For example, what you wear to the beach isn't something you'll want to wear into the office. But to avoid cluttering up your closet floor and spending your entire life savings on different styles of vinyl shoes, we recommend you choose ones that are multi-use. This way, one pair can do the job of several, saving you space and money.
Vinyl shoes are excellent when it comes to versatility. It looks quite neutral and often has a glossy finish. It is used to make all kinds of shoe styles from glamorous high-heels to modest work flats. The flexibility they provide is also a pro, since it makes it easier to walk and stay comfortable at all times.
Within the realm of this type of vinyl shoes, make sure to consider the color and design of them as well. Neutral colors are suitable for both formal and informal occasions whereas bright, eye-catching colors are harder to wear professionally. With design, a closed-toe vinyl shoe is more versatile than an open-toe vinyl shoe because it has a more modest appearance but can still be dressed down. Minimal embellishments are also preferable. In short - less is more when it comes to versatility with vinyl shoes.
Durability
One of the most important aspects to consider when buying any kind of footwear is their durability. It doesn't matter how stylish, comfortable, or high-quality they are - if they aren't durable, your money is wasted.
Now, the lucky thing with vinyl shoes is that this material is one of the sturdiest synthetics out there. Nearly all footwear with uppers or soles made of this material has excellent durability. Most of the vinyl shoes we've listed have scored high on this criterion as a result.
However, though the uppers are nearly guaranteed to be durable, the rest of the shoe isn't. For instance, other materials might be used in the uppers. Leather and canvas are amongst the most durable, while cheap patent leather and other synthetics might be less durable. It's also important for the vinyl shoe to be put together properly to begin with, but unfortunately, this isn't something you would know until after your purchase arrives. We recommend you take a look at customer reviews to get a general idea of a specific pair's sturdiness.
Lastly, you won't like hearing this, but we've got to say it anyway - good, durable vinyl shoes cost more. Their production costs are higher, their designs more precise, and that naturally drives up their value. If the pair of vinyl shoes you're considering is versatile, or if you plan on wearing them as everyday footwear, trust us when we say that the extra bucks will pay off in the long run.
Heel
The height of your heels can make a huge difference on your appearance and your comfort. As a woman, you are forced to choose between heel and no heel each time you step out the door. Both options have their benefits.
Those vinyl shoes with tall heels tend to be more trendy and fashionable than those without heels. As the material is coming back into style, the heels really give them the desirable retro look. However, the downside is that comfort is often undermined. Vinyl shoes with heels measuring over four inches in height can make it very uncomfortable to walk or stand, and in the long term, can lead to foot fatigue, blisters, and even bleeding feet.
Footwear with a low heel or no heel at all don't have the same fierce, feminine look, but they are much more comfortable. They provide more stability, and are best for all-day wear. Besides, these kinds vinyl shoes appear more modest and are the safer choice for professional occasions.
If you do plan on buying a vinyl shoe that is a heel, here are some tips. Look for heels with rubber on the heel, which will prevent slipping and make it easier to walk. Ensure that a comfortable lining is in place and is made of a soft material such as leather rather than synthetics. Give your toes enough room to move a bit, and look for chunkier rather than thinner heels to ensure more stability. And above all, try not to walk or stand too much to avoid foot aches afterwards!
Our Favorites
1. VANDIMI Clear Stilettos
Transparent heels are reminiscent of Cinderella's glass slipper, in the romantic fairytale that everybody has no doubt heard. With these vinyl shoes, you'll be able to bring out your inner Cinderella and strut into the scene with elegance.
Though these vinyl shoes are not made of glass, they still have the same exquisite appearance. The entire upper, save for the back of the heel, is made of clear PVC, and glittering rhinestones gather at the toe and are scattered across the whole upper. As a result, they will sparkle under light, creating a super glamorous effect. This pair of vinyl shoes even come in four different colours - black, silver, pink, and gold.
Problems might arise when it comes to comfort, especially for those who don't normally wear heels but need a pair for a special occasion. The pointed toe might squish the toes, and the thin 4-inch heels provide minimal stability. However, many customers still claim that they are a very comfortable vinyl shoe due to the softness of the insole and the sturdiness of the rubber outsole. The flexibility of the material also comes into play.
2. Pleaser Car401
Though the name of this model isn't graceful, the actual vinyl shoe sure is. This platform sandal by Pleaser is simple yet oh-so-stylish, making them the perfect summer footwear.
The clear strap across the toes not only looks simple and classy, but it also holds the foot down comfortably when walking. The material is flexible and even slightly stretchy so that your foot size is better accommodated. However, some customers have claimed that their size is too snug, so it would also be good to order a size up to be safe in this vinyl shoe.
The heel measures a bit over 3 inches tall, giving you a classy, elegant look without sacrificing comfort. The peep toe gives more room for the toes and also ensures more breathability. To top it all off, they are of an affordable price for a vinyl shoe.
3. Olivia Jaymes Gladiator Stilettos
When normal heels get too boring, gladiator stilettos are here to help. This lace-up style of heels can add the perfect sleek touch to your outfit.
The biggest pro about these mid-priced vinyl shoes is definitely their style. They've got bold laces, a clear upper, and a cut-out at the heel. As a whole, it's not a look you see every day! They make it a bit easier to pair with an outfit with their solid colours (red, white, and black), but they are still a great pair of vinyl shoes with which you can experiment with your style.
Looks aside, the uppers are super flexible, allowing the feet to have their natural movements when you're walking. The laces not only serve as decoration, but they also render the shoes adjustable in size, which is super useful when ordering online because it's hard to know which size will be the right one. Speaking of which - they run slightly small in size, so we recommend you order half a size larger for this vinyl shoe than you normally would.
4. J. Adams Daisy
J. Adams is an amazing footwear brand for women that offers sneakers, stilettoes, and everything in between, including vinyl shoes. Their products are vegan- and eco-friendly, keeping you stylish without sacrificing the environment.
These kitten heel vinyl shoes are brilliant in their simplicity, Though their look consists of just a clear block heel, a clear toe strap, and an ankle strap, they give off an air of timeless elegance. Their simplicity allows them to be dressed up (or down!) in whatever way you desire, and they can even be worn as last-minute vinyl shoe option for a formal or semi-formal occasion.
Not only that, they also have great, practical features. Not only is the 2 1/4 inch kitten heel classy and feminine, but it also allows you to keep your stability when walking and reduces the risk of foot fatigue and strain. The non-skid also adds to stability to the vinyl shoe. The straps hold the foot in place, and the cushioned footbed makes your strides more comfortable. What's more, they are made of vegan leather alongside vinyl, which is comfortable and also environmentally friendly. With an affordable price, we think the Daisy kitten heel is a must-have vinyl shoe for every woman.
5. Melissa Ultrafly Flat
This ultra adorable and cute little flat will steal your heart on first wear. This vinyl shoe is constructed from perfumed PVC, helping to keep your footwear fresh. A slight heel is hidden in the design, and gives about a one inch boost. It’s a perfect vinyl shoe for both work and casual settings, especially in spring and summer.
The Ultrafly Flat vinyl shoe has a beautiful embellishment of a butterfly at the toe which matches the hue of the shoe in different tones. Monogram Melissa ‘M’ is at the heel, and the toe is rounded with a little peep toe for ventilation and comfort. Coming in a few different neutral colors, it can match anything in your wardrobe collection.
This vinyl shoe is also quite versatile with its design elements. Pair with skirts and slacks for a business style, or with shorts or jeans for a casual look. A lightly padded footbed helps add some comfort when walking around. Overall a great shoe by Melissa that is sure to become a favorite in your footwear collection!
6. Jessica Simpson Seena
We are in love with this vinyl shoe from Jessica Simpson! The Seena is an airy, transparent dual strap wedge, made from a mix of PVC uppers, and gorgeous texture cork outsole. It’s a vinyl shoe that’s sure to turn heads when paired with a summery strappy dress, and will definitely keep you cool when things heat up in summertime. With it’s easy slip on design, you can slide right into these and step out on the town for the evening in no time.
Uppers are made from a clear PVC, consisting of two wide straps which criss cross across the foot. Open toe and heel help prevent blistering, and keep the sandal breathable and cool during wear. The wedge itself adds a good bit of height, with a one inch platform and high heel that will lengthen legs and show off calves. The cork outsole gives extra shock absorption naturally, helping to keep a spring in your step when walking about.
The sole of this vinyl shoe is synthetic, with a diamond pattern tread to help add a bit of traction. The Seena also has a memory foam midsole and lightly padded footbed, both of which add to the cushioned comfort of the sandal, creating a pleasant experience for wear. It’s the perfect mix of sexy, classy, summery, and sophisticated all in one gorgeous vinyl shoe!
7. Michael Kors Plate
Summertime brings about the best of the weather, warming up to temperatures that get us outside and active. We shed our winter boots and coats for tank tops and sandals, and the Michael Kors Plate will have you stepping out in style. This vinyl shoe will keep you cool, calm, collected and chill in the summertime heat!
Keeping maximal breathability, the Plate has a T-strap design and open toe perfect for showing off a new pedicure. Translucent PVC creates the upper in a smoky tone color, while the sole is a tacky rubber that will keep you walking comfortably. Straps wrap the ankle and have an adjustable buckle closure in the heel, allowing you to find your perfect fit.
And what shoe from this designer wouldn’t be complete without the Michael Kors logo? Atop the T-strap that’s just what you’ll find, subtle enough to match the smoky color of the vinyl shoe, it adds the element of designer style to the Plate. Easy for wear, you can simply slip on into these and head out for an evening stroll on the boardwalk, or dress them up for dinner out with friends and family.
8. AZALEA WANG Clear PVC Sandal
As they all say, less is more. Though the design is simple with this pair of vinyl shoes, they are super stylish and offer a look of timeless elegance.
The upper is made of translucent vinyl with no complicated straps, cut-outs, or laces. There is a simple peep-toe cutout that gives the toes as much room as they want, and the heel is open to ensure breathability during the summer in this vinyl shoe. Their neutral colors means they can be paired with outfits of nearly any color.
In terms of comfort, they've got a lightly cushioned footbed that makes walking easy enough. The 4-inch heel means they aren't the best for all-day walking or standing, but if necessary, they can still help you stick through. The con is that they are a bit pricey for such a simple sandal, but because they are so versatile and can be worn for a variety of different occasions, we think the money's worth it for this pair of vinyl shoes.
9. Schutz Cendi
If you’re a fan of the traditional stiletto pump, you’ll love this spin that Schutz has created in the Cendi vinyl shoe. This sexy pump is best suited for fun nights out on the town, or even more formal classy occasions. Of course, any good pump is easily dressed down when paired with some jeans or leggings while still adding some oomph to your outfit. With a mix of clear vinyl and colored leathers from blacks and blues, to neon pink or yellow, you’ll be wearing this pair with confidence and attitude!
We always adore a good stiletto design, and the design of this vinyl shoe has us staring. A unique mix of clear vinyl combined with leather at the heel and toe of the pump create a wonderfully attractive aesthetic. Diamond shaped pointed toe comes in a myriad of colors, and gives structure to the shoe. It’s the simplistic style of a pump dressed up to be sophisticated and sassy, and makes for a perfect accessory to more formal outfits and attire.
A sexy tall stiletto heel gives ample height to this vinyl shoe, while a textured sole helps to provide more traction when walking about. A lightly padded footbed helps provide comfort during wear with some arch support as well. One look at this pump, and you may find yourself purchasing more than just one pair. It’s a vinyl shoe that screams for attention, and we’re happy to oblige!
10. Melissa Cosmic
Is there a vinyl shoe style more convenient than slides? With the slip-on efficiency of flip-flops without the annoying toe post, they are great for lazy days. Because of their simple style, they have recently become even stylish for street wear.
The Cosmic slides by Melissa are the perfect example of the combination of practicality and style in vinyl shoes. With their synthetic sole and vinyl straps, they are nice, lightweight, and even water-resistant, which is perfect for summer days. The wideness of the two straps, combined with their slightly snug fit, ensure they stay on comfortably when walking, and the curve of the insole cradles the shape of the foot. Though unsuitable for formal events, they are great for casual and some semi-formal occasions.
In terms of looks, the Cosmic slides come in different colors, but the ones with vinyl uppers are by far the best because of their originality. There is clear white, translucent brown, and also black/brown. The clear straps give them a distinct look that sets you apart from the rest of the crowd in vinyl shoes. Plus, you can take the "socks and sandals" faux-pas and turn it fashionable by wearing a pair of fun socks underneath them. We do have to warn you that these slides cost quite a bit, which is their only downside.
Sources
- A Girl's Guide to High Heels - Part 2: How to Buy High Heels, ,
- Benefits of PVC , Info Piece ,
- Shoe Size, How-To Guide ,