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It isn't that calcium chloride specifically is not needed for vinyl pools, it is that calcium hardness is not generally a concern for vinyl pools. Also calcium hypochlorite is just sold as shock, usually in 1 pound bags. Make sure it says calcium hypochlorite on the label.
As for your pH, that depends. What is your TA level and how are you chlorinating your pool? If your TA level is low and/or you are using pucks to chlorinate then soda ash might be the way to go (sold as pH up or washing soda). Otherwise borax can be used to raise your pH without messing with your TA much.