VIVAIA

Sustainability:

• Recycled Materials: A key aspect of VIVAIA is their commitment to using recycled materials, most notably PET plastic from water bottles, which are processed into threads for their knit shoe uppers. They also incorporate other eco-friendly materials like sugarcane EVA, recycled faux fur, rice husks, herbal insoles, natural rubber, and TPE.
• Waste Reduction: VIVAIA emphasizes a low-waste production process using knit-to-shape technology, which they claim reduces production waste by over 30% compared to traditional footwear manufacturing.
• Eco-conscious Packaging: Their packaging is made from 100% recycled cardboard.
• Certifications: VIVAIA states they utilize the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) to assess their products, with their shoes containing around 20% recycled materials. Their manufacturing factory in China undergoes annual independent audits.
• Controversy: It's worth noting that some discussions exist regarding the sustainability of using highly recyclable PET plastic in a way that prevents its further recycling after the shoe's lifespan. There are also questions about potential microplastic release.

Products:

• VIVAIA offers a diverse range of footwear for women, including ballet flats, loafers, heels, boots, sneakers, sandals, and more.
• They emphasize comfort, often featuring padded insoles, arch support, and designs that accommodate wider feet.
• Many of their flats are machine washable or easy to clean.
• They are known for their "Ballet Sneaker," a machine-washable satin sneaker.

Company Information:

• Founded: 2020
• Headquarters: Initially based in Miami, United States, but also lists an address in Dover, Delaware, and New York.
• Business Model: Primarily a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand, selling online through their website. They are also expanding into physical retail with their first permanent US store opening in SoHo, New York City, in April 2025, following successful pop-up shops. They also have wholesale partnerships with retailers like Nordstrom, Dillard's, and Von Maur.
• Global Reach: VIVAIA products are available in over 61 countries and regions worldwide.
• Manufacturing: Their shoes are manufactured in Dongguan, China.
• Funding: As of early 2025, VIVAIA was reported as an unfunded company.
• Mission: To create comfortable and stylish footwear for everyday life, using eco-friendly materials. They aim to address the common pain point of women's shoes lacking sneaker-like comfort.
• Technology: They utilize 3D knitting technology for their seamless and flexible shoe designs.
• Marketing: They leverage digital marketing and social media, and have gained popularity with celebrity endorsements.

In essence, VIVAIA positions itself as a brand that combines fashion and comfort with a focus on environmental responsibility by utilizing recycled materials in its footwear. They are expanding their reach through both online sales and physical retail presence.