VEJA, the French-born sneaker brand you'll want to choose again and again. A thorough comparison of the three classic white sneaker styles.

"VEJA," born in France in 2005, is a fair trade shoe brand whose products are assembled by hand, one at a time, by local artisans using materials sourced through clean methods. While many of us don't often think about where our shoes are made, VEJA pays close attention to where and through what production processes its materials are made, and from whom they are sourced, and makes this information available to consumers. This transparency for both producers and consumers has earned VEJA particular popularity in France, where awareness of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) runs high, and the brand has become a familiar sight on the streets of Europe.

When you're drawn to VEJA's brand philosophy and clean design, one thing that can leave you puzzled is which shape suits you best. Since so many of the sneakers are based on white, many people find themselves torn between options. This article is for anyone struggling to choose a VEJA style. We compared the three classic models: ESPLAR, CAMPO, and V-10.

The three models compared this time are as follows.

ESPLAR

ESPLAR EXTRA WHITE BABE

Upper: Leather (tanned in Brazil, free of any harmful or prohibited chemicals)

Lining: Recycled polyester (made from PET bottles)

Outsole: Natural rubber

Shoelaces: Organic cotton

CAMPO

CAMPO / EXTRA-WHITE NATURAL SUEDE

Upper: Low-chrome leather

Lining: Recycled polyester (made from PET bottles)

Outsole: Natural rubber

Shoelaces: Organic cotton

V-10

V-10 EXTRA-WHITE NATURAL SAHARA

The V-10 is a series born to celebrate the brand's 10th anniversary. Its distinctive feature is the punched detailing on the toe.

Upper: Chrome-free leather

Sole: Natural rubber

Shoelaces: Organic cotton

Comparing the construction.

1. How about the weight?

→ESPLAR (298g) > CAMPO (342g), V-10 (342g) 　*Measured in size 38, one shoe

When choosing a comfortable pair of sneakers, weight is one thing that matters. ESPLAR was the lightest, while CAMPO and V-10 weighed the same. The V-10 has a material change at the toe and gives a somewhat heavier impression in terms of design, but it's actually the same weight as the CAMPO—surprisingly light.

2. How about the fit?

→ESPLAR > V-10 > CAMPO　

There isn't a major difference in the actual size of the shoes across the three styles, but differences in cushioning create differences in how they feel when worn.

The ESPLAR's upper is made of leather, with cotton fabric lining its inside. Since cushioning material is used only at the opening of the shoe, there's no tight, cinched feeling, and there's some room inside the shoe as well.

The V-10 is similar to the ESPLAR, but the cushioning material extends to cover roughly the area in front of the ankle. Because of this, only the heel area feels snug against the foot. The toe area is somewhat narrow, so compared to the ESPLAR, there isn't much extra room.

The CAMPO uses a plush, cushiony material throughout the entire inside of the upper, including the tongue, all the way to the toe. This gives it a snug feeling that wraps the whole foot.

3. What about sole thickness and construction?

→V-10 (3.4cm) > CAMPO (2.8cm) > ESPLAR (2.2cm)

Sole thickness affects not only how a shoe feels to wear but also the overall impression it gives. A thicker sole creates a more casual look, absorbs shock from the ground more effectively, and tends to be less tiring even after a lot of walking. On the other hand, for those who drive, a thinner sole is recommended since it's easier to operate the pedals.

The V-10 also differs from the CAMPO and ESPLAR in terms of sole construction.

The V-10 uses what's called a cup sole, where a cup-shaped sole is sewn onto the upper.

The CAMPO and ESPLAR are made using what's called a vulcanized sole, a method in which heat and pressure are applied to bond the upper and sole together.

Because cup soles are so durable, they may feel a bit stiff when you first start wearing them. Vulcanized soles, by contrast, are flexible and soft right from the start.

All three models share the same insole, which uses a thick, springy material designed to reduce fatigue even during long periods of walking.

4. What are the differences in materials and design?

ESPLAR uses leather, while CAMPO and V-10 use chrome-free leather. ESPLAR has a smooth surface, whereas the leather on CAMPO and V-10 has a slightly textured finish. Because of this, even in the same white color, ESPLAR looks more vividly white and clean, while CAMPO and V-10 have a softer impression.

ESPLAR and CAMPO have similar designs, but ESPLAR looks sleeker overall. This difference comes not only from the sole thickness but also from the toe design. ESPLAR narrows slightly toward the tip, while CAMPO's toe is a bit flatter.

Comparing them in everyday outfits

We tried pairing the three sneakers with slim-fit bottoms, wide-silhouette bottoms, and a long skirt. Sneakers can often give a sporty impression, but VEJA's clean design lets you wear them in a sleek, refined way. We've also included recommended styling from a staff member who wears all three models regularly.

▼Pairing with slim pants

Our staff member's recommendation is "slim denim × CAMPO

Denim: Côte d'Ivoire Cotton Sono Tight Straight Denim OW

T-shirt: coming soon

Staff M: Compared to the slim ESPLAR, CAMPO has a bit more volume and fullness. When I wear ESPLAR with slim bottoms, it tends to emphasize the shape and slimness of my legs, so CAMPO gives me a better balance.

▼Pairing with wide pants

Our staff member's recommendation is "relaxed chinos × V-10

Pants:

T-shirt: coming soon

Staff M: With its design reminiscent of NIKE's Air Force, V-10 pairs well with casual outfits. Slim bottoms tend to make the shoe stand out too much, so I like to wear it with wide, relaxed bottoms.

▼Pairing with a long skirt

Our staff member's recommendation is "pencil skirt × ESPLAR

Skirt:

Cardigan:

T-shirt: coming soon

Staff M: With its slim shape and thinner sole, ESPLAR gives a sleek look. The smooth leather has a refined feel, so I often bring it in as a casual contrast piece when my outfit is a bit more polished. It's great for those moments when leather shoes would feel too formal.

See the full lineup here