Our verdict
The Rothy’s Mary Jane and the Vessi Shoes are too close to call — we rated both 8/10. There's no clear winner here, so it comes down to what you want it for. We break that down below.
Rothy’s Mary Jane

Vessi Shoes
Side by side
| Attribute | Rothy’s Mary Jane | Vessi Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Best for | My favorite Rothy's yet—elegant, comfy, and eco-conscious, but the tight bow can strain straps. | Quality product worth testing. Worth investment if aligned with needs. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Rothy’s Mary Jane if…
My favorite Rothy's yet—elegant, comfy, and eco-conscious, but the tight bow can strain straps.
- Elegant bow design that's cute and stylish
- Very comfortable fit with rounded toe
Choose the Vessi Shoes if…
Quality product worth testing. Worth investment if aligned with needs.
- Truly waterproof—water beads off, interior stays completely dry under testing
- Lightweight and breathable, no sweaty feet unlike traditional rain boots
Why we rate them this way
Rothy’s Mary Jane — 8/10
My favorite Rothy's yet—elegant, comfy, and eco-conscious, but the tight bow can strain straps.
What we liked: Elegant bow design that's cute and stylish, Very comfortable fit with rounded toe, Made from recycled plastic (sustainable), Vegan leather soles add sophistication, Good value at $155 for the quality.
Worth knowing: Bow must be tied extremely tight to stay secured, Straps can rip from tight bow—reviewer's pair failed after a couple wears, Poor customer service (only $30 credit on $165 shoe, no replacement), Durability concerns offset eco-friendly positioning.
Vessi Shoes — 8/10
Quality product worth testing. Worth investment if aligned with needs.
What we liked: Truly waterproof—water beads off, interior stays completely dry under testing, Lightweight and breathable, no sweaty feet unlike traditional rain boots, Slip-resistant sole for safety, Durable vegan knit material for regular wear, Water-repellent coating that doesn't wear off like chemical treatments.
Worth knowing: Won't protect from puddles deeper than the shoe height, May struggle to dry if water enters from the top.
Common questions
Is the Rothy’s Mary Jane or the Vessi Shoes better?
We rated both 8/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Rothy’s Mary Jane: My favorite Rothy's yet—elegant, comfy, and eco-conscious, but the tight bow can strain straps. Vessi Shoes: Quality product worth testing. Worth investment if aligned with needs.
What's the difference between the Rothy’s Mary Jane and the Vessi Shoes?
Short version — Rothy’s Mary Jane: My favorite Rothy's yet—elegant, comfy, and eco-conscious, but the tight bow can strain straps. Vessi Shoes: Quality product worth testing. Worth investment if aligned with needs.