From ethnic vibes to highway rides: Review of VENII footwear, Royal Enfield boots
Discover if VENII leather sandals and Royal Enfield boots are worth the investment for festive ethnic wear and highway travel.
As the festive season kicks into high gear, two major trends are taking over: the urge to dress in traditional ethnic attire and the desire to escape on long-weekend road trips. However, matching your footwear to these vibes is often a struggle. Whether you are looking for something to wear with a kurta or something rugged enough for a motorcycle ride, the right pair makes all the difference.
VENII: Bridging the Gap in Indian Footwear
For a long time, the Indian footwear market has overlooked a crucial cultural nuance: the "shoes-off" culture. In South Asia, removing footwear before entering a home is a daily ritual. Most premium brands focus on closed shoes designed for outdoor endurance, which are cumbersome to lace and unlace at every doorstep. While mass-market rubber sandals exist, they lack style, and traditional Kolhapuris are often reserved strictly for weddings.
VENII aims to fill this middle ground by creating high-quality, open footwear that works for both daily life and special occasions. The brand focuses on a leather-first approach that respects the quick-on, quick-off cadence of Indian lifestyles.
Testing the Craftsmanship: Mahogany and Nutmeg
The testing involved two distinct models: the men's Mahogany and the women's Nutmeg. Both pairs showcase a level of handcrafted detail that sets them apart from mass-produced alternatives.
- The Men's Mahogany: A premium evolution of the Peshawari cross-strap sandal. It is crafted from full-grain Argentinian leather with a rich, burnished cognac finish and features a signature handcrafted woven braid.
- The Women's Nutmeg: A gladiator-style silhouette featuring multiple leather straps that cage the foot, each adorned with a handcrafted chevron braid.
The Comfort Factor and a Pro-Tip
Because these sandals are made from genuine, premium leather, they do require a bit of patience. During the initial testing, both pairs experienced a brief "shoe bite" phase. If you are planning to purchase these, it is important to be mindful during the first few wears.
The Hack: To resolve the initial stiffness, wear a very thick pair of socks around the house for a short period. This helps the leather soften. Once the break-in period is over, the leather beautifully molds to the unique shape of your feet, making them incredibly comfortable for regular wear.
The Nutmeg model includes a natural latex cushioned suede-lined insole, while the Mahogany version also incorporates a cushioned insole to ensure ease of movement throughout the day.
Surprising Performance on Wet Surfaces
One of the most unexpected highlights was the traction. Despite being open sandals, the outer soles feature anti-skid rubber inserts. During testing on very wet surfaces, the grip proved to be phenomenal, providing stability where others were struggling to keep their footing.
Is the Investment Worth It?
With the women's Nutmeg priced at approximately Rs 4,795 and the men's Mahogany at Rs 6,995, these are certainly considered investment pieces. However, for those seeking a blend of cultural relevance, high-quality materials, and versatile style that works beyond just a wedding context, they offer significant value.