Veja Volley review: These lace-up trainers offer the ultimate balance of comfort and style

When it comes to the perfect pair of trainers, few brands have nailed style, sustainability, and comfort quite as well as Veja. And their Volley trainers, a nod to the 1970s Brazilian volleyball shoes, are no exception. Plus their vintage-inspired design aligns perfectly with the brands French heritage, giving off an effortlessly chic Parisian feel.

I was immediately drawn to the sleek, minimalist design that's timeless and somehow super on trend too, and it's safe to say after putting this style to the test they are definitely on my list of most comfortable trainers for women. I wore these trainers during morning park walks and running errands in the city, and these shoes held up exceptionally, proving that they aren't just stylish but also practical too.

And if you're looking for a vintage-inspired shoe that's on-trend but adidas Sambas aren't for you, this style is the perfect alternative. The Volley trainer has a 20-year history at Veja, with the original trainers launching in 2005. However, they have now come back with a new, fresh design. They are heavily influenced by Brazilian volleyball shoes; however, they have created a more minimalist, contemporary feel, which makes them some of the best white trainers on the market.

Not only are they great on the comfort and style front, they are also made with the planet in mind. The Volley Trainer is made with sustainably sourced suede and organic trade leather.

Veja Volley Trainer Review

Veja Volley Leather: Comfort & Support

In terms of comfort, I was surprised by how well the Veja Volleys felt throughout the day. While the soles aren't particularly plush or bouncy like some of the more tech-heavy trainers, such as the Sketcher Summits, they didn’t leave me wishing for extra cushioning, and I barely noticed them on my feet. I wore them for hours without discomfort and absolutely no rubbing.

Another thing to note was that there was no breaking-in period, and I didn’t experience any blisters, which is especially fantastic for someone who used to wear more structured footwear. They provided a solid, stable base for walking, making them ideal for wearing all day and running errands. So if you're after a pair of shoes that can keep up with you without the bulk or squishiness of athletic trainers, these are a great choice - and they look great!

Veja Volley Trainers: Style

What truly makes these trainers stand out, however, is their style, this design feels effortlessly cool while maintaining a timeless quality, that not many brands can easily pull off. Plus their light cotton upper and leather panels give a retro feel thats also looks refined and chic, and perfectly ties to the brands French heritage.

They also come in a range of materials and vibrant colours—canvas, suede, and leather—offering a lot of variety to choose from. I opted for the white leather version, an easy option to pair with almost anything in my wardrobe. Whether you’re putting them on with a pair of the best wide leg jeans, tailored trousers, or even a casual dress, they provide that perfect balance of laid back elegance. It’s no wonder Veja is a firm favourite amongst celebrities and even royalty, with Kate Middleton often spotted sporting a pair of their Esplar trainers.

Veja Volley Trainers: Cleaning and Care

One of the great things about getting the leather version of the Veja Volley trainers is how easy they are to keep clean, you can easily use a cloth to wipe the leather to keep them fresh, even after a full day of wear. However, if you choose one of the suede or canvas options, especially in lighter colours, it's worth buying a crepe protector spray as suede is more delicate and easily marked too, this will certainly help to keep them looking new.

Veja Volley Trainers: Verdict

After trying several trainer styles, these are some of the best white trainers in my eyes. They are a brilliant addition to any wardrobe, and have versatile styling options too, so if you are finishing off your autumn capsule wardrobe these should be a top contender.

While they might not have the most plush sole, they have a solid design and the style more than makes up for it. Whether you're heading out for a walk or running errands, these trainers will take you through the day without causing any discomfort—and you’ll look effortlessly chic while doing it!

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