Step by step
Take a look behind the scenes at our factories and see how your favorite VIA VAIs take shape.
Discover the journey
The design of a VIA VAI item starts long before you are introduced to it. It begins with inspiration, an idea, and a drawing, and ultimately takes shape as a final product thanks to materials and production. We would like to take you through this process; discover the origins of your favorite VIA VAI items.
From sketch to shoe
Sketch
The design of a new collection begins at the drawing board in Waalwijk. This is still done in the traditional way: with pencil and paper. Up to eight hand-drawn sketches are made for each model. We strive for perfection in every detail. Whether it's an eyelet, zipper, or tongue label, every feature is carefully thought out to achieve a unique result. And so, the shoe love story begins...
Materials
The materials used are crucial to the quality and lifespan of your new shoes. We select only the highest quality and most durable materials for our collections. Our styling and production team makes a critical selection at an international leather fair in Milan. You can read more about our materials and their origins here:
Last
A hand-drawn sketch is the starting point for a technical, digital drawing. The foundation for our shoes is still laid in Italy. Our Italian modeler determines the technical dimensions of the shoe, using optimal fit as the starting point. Here we design the shoe mold, also known in technical terms as the “last.” The last forms the basis for the fit of every shoe.
Sole
Our entire sneaker collection features soles that we have designed and developed ourselves. From extremely lightweight EVA soles to recyclable thermoplastic rubber soles with foam: ultimate comfort and optimal cushioning are guaranteed. The soles for our sneakers are produced in Portugal and Italy, where we use only recyclable materials for every sneaker sole.
Protoypes
Last and sole designs finalized, materials selected, and colors chosen? Check! This is when the first prototypes arrive in Waalwijk. The very first version of a new shoe, which is fine-tuned until it is absolutely perfect, both in terms of fit and design. Did you know that we have a proper fit panel at VIA VAI? A shoe is tested by up to five different feet before it goes into production.
Production
Once all prototypes have been approved, production can begin. From this point on, our manufacturers are given the green light. From soles to leather and from zippers to eyelets: everything goes directly from our suppliers to Portugal and Spain, where all the individual parts are assembled into the final product. Curious about how the production process works? Read more here:
Packaging
After undergoing strict quality control checks at both the factory and our headquarters, your new fashion favorites are ready to be packaged. All our packaging is made from FSC-certified paper. This paper comes from sustainably managed forests.
Shipping
When sending parcels, transport comes into play. Our established transport partners have an active CO₂ emissions policy. In addition, we are constantly looking for other alternatives ourselves. For example, we encourage consumers to use a pick-up point, we work paperless whenever possible, and we try to limit returns as much as possible.
A love that lasts
Finally, your new VIA VAI items have arrived! They are exactly as you imagined them, love at first sight. Of course, you want them to always look like new, so you can enjoy them time and time again. And with the right care, you can also extend their lifespan. Win-win! In our blog, we tell you everything you need to know about the proper care and cleaning of leather, suede, and mesh.
