Veja Campo 35, V-10 35, Esplar 35. For a lower priced alternative, I tried these sneakers recently and loved the look and feel (size 5.5 US fit best)!
I’ve been meaning to do an updated post on Veja’s sustainable sneakers, as their styles have changed a bit from back when I first got mine! While trying on new styles in their latest materials, I was pleased to find that they are more comfortable and softer right out of the box than the first pair I got in early 2020. I continue to get lots of questions on Veja sneakers from sizing to comfort tips, so I wanted to compare 3 popular Veja styles: the Campo, V-10 and Esplar and share a few hacks! I also demonstrated these fit hacks in my IG Reel.
Veja Sneaker Style Comparison
Veja Campo Sneakers
What I would recommend as a first pair. Many people find the Campos to be the most comfortable Veja style due to the slightly higher footbed and more support they provide. I was really impressed by these out of the box and loved the soft pebbled leather, support and platform sole (higher than my Esplars) for a little boost.
Veja V-10 Sneakers
Their sportier, retro-inspired style. I first tried the V-10 a few years ago and found them to be very stiff and uncomfortable at the ankles, so at the time I chose the Esplar style instead (Campo was not yet available).
I recently gave these another try and found them to be softer all around. The tongue and sides of the ankles DO come up higher, so as someone with low ankles, I needed to make a few adjustments for these to be comfy (see below).
Veja Esplar Sneakers
These are one of Veja’s original styles and my first pair. They’re lower profile than the Campo and with a comparably lower platform. If I were to be making my first purchase now, I would probably choose the Campo for the thicker pebbled leather and higher platform.
Veja Sizing – order in your EUR size, not US size
I’ve heard many people say that Veja sizing runs large, but I’ve found it really depends on wether you’re ordering in US or EUR sizing. Most brands convert an EUR 35 to a US 5 on the inside label, but Veja converts a 35 to a US size 4, which I personally find to be inaccurate. So, if you’re ordering on a site that uses EUR sizing, I would stick to your usual shoe size. I am usually a US size 5 to 5.5 in almost all brands, and I take a EUR 35 / US 4 in Veja sneakers (I never take a 4 in any other brand).
Break-in Tips for Making Vejas More Comfortable
The most common Veja complaint is that the the tongue of the sneaker is too long and rubs. If you’re running into that problem, here are three easy fixes:
- Leave the top 2 holes un-laced. This gives the tongue more room and flexibility to move around. Plus, it looks better in my opinion!
- Slide the tongue off to one side. A lot of people do this, but I prefer the third method.
- Push the tongue inward under the laces. Try this if the above fixes aren’t working for you. This one is harder to describe, so see my latest Instagram video for a quick demo of this tip!
For those (like me) with a low ankle, you might find that the sides come up too high and rub painfully against the bottom of your ankle bone. I shared my inexpensive hack in this post, but adding a heel lift to your shoe may give you just the little bit of added height you need to fix this issue.
Where to Shop
- Campo
- V-10
- Esplar
Thanks so much for this! I was going back and forth between the Campo and Esplar. After seeing the side by side comparison, I just ordered the Campo!! Also appreciate the sizing tip.
So glad you found this helpful, Michelle!
Do you have to use a shoe lift with the Campo too? I’ve only tried the V10 and my ankles did not like them at all. I’ve got the same low ankle problem as you.
Hi Charmaine, I didn’t keep the Campo since I’m still getting a lot of wear out of my Esplars which are super similar. I don’t think I would need a lift with the Campo because he heel isn’t cut as high as the V10, but I wear one anyways in most sneakers for added comfort!
Thank you for this helpful post! It’s often incredibly difficult to see the differences between the Campo and Esplar on retailers’ websites, so seeing them side-by-side is a huge help.
Appreciate the reviews! I’ve always thought Veja sneakers were cute but heard terrible things about the comfort in terms of the tongue so have never tried them. The Campo looks like a great option! FYI, just saw that Gilt.com is running a VEJA boutique for the next four days with all options under $150, including various styles of the three you reviewed here.
Thanks for mentioning that!
I have the Esplars are never thougth they were all that comfortable. Especially for all day walking. But just bought the V-10s and they feel AMAZING. Such a good roundup and good tips on sizing!
xo Jessica
What makes Veja’s so popular if they’re not comfortable immediately, especially with plenty of other white and higher end sneakers on the market? Genuinely curious!
I like their look better than most other sneakers! A lot of people also love the brand’s mission for sustainability.
I am currently mulling over SAS sneakers (San Antonio Shoes).
How does the Vega campo sneaker compare with everlane relea her court sneakers? Comfort?
Everlane Court is more cushy and comfortable, however mine are an older version of the court from years ago and I have not tried their most recent version. I did try the Madewell sneakers on in store and it feels comparable to my Everlane ones but slightly lower.