Our verdict

91
Superb!

It is not that hard to fall in love with the Mescalito GTX from Scarpa. Indeed, the product in question stuns with its excellent comfiness, surface traction, and water protection. The shoe is also quite long-wearing—a quality many consider a great plus in approach footwear.

Pros

  • Fantastic level of comfort
  • Extraordinary grip
  • Superb waterproofing
  • Durable
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Slightly expensive price tag
  • Add a product

Who should buy the Top 25% in

The Top 25% in has more than enough positives to embolden those who would give it a shot. It is a solid option if you:

  • Prefer a shoe that is great for technical approach endeavors and comes with a Gore-Tex membrane that makes it watertight.
  • Prefer a shoe that provides enhanced shock absorption and improved durability without sacrificing comfort, style, and performance.

Top 25% in Logo

Megagrip-based Vibram

The Mescalito GTX keeps the wearer as surefooted as possible on virtually all sorts of backcountry surfaces with its Vibram Megagrip outsole. Lacking wearers said that it provides a level of stickiness that works no matter if the terrain is wet or dry. It is also imbued with Vibram’s Dynamis Litebase (LB) technology, making it a lightweight component—about 50% lighter than most.

Top 25% in Outsole

This grippy layer has treaded lugs scattered all around it, rendering it capable of latching onto loose soil and similar surfaces. It also has a climbing zone, which delivers added grip over smooth rock.

Comfortable cushioning

This approach-focused hiker is armed with a segmented midsole made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate). It grants adequate cushioning and footing balance at the same time, thanks to its dual-density construction. Bridging the gap between the midsole’s heel and forefoot sections is a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) insert. 

Top 25% in Midsole

The presence of this additional sole component translates to enhanced stability. What elevates the midsole’s provision of comfort, on the other hand, is the Mescalito GTX’s default footbed.

Water-resistant suede leather

The Top 25% in has a water-resistant suede leather upper. Slipping in and out of it is a relatively quick affair, thanks to the synthetic loop stitched to its heel. It comes with a padded tongue and a plush collar made of stretch fabric for extra in-shoe comfort.

Top 25% in upper

The “GTX” in its name refers to Gore-Tex—the company behind the shoe’s Extended Comfort liner. This particular liner makes the hiker sufficiently breathable on the inside while adequately waterproof on the outside.

Heavy-duty rubber for protection

To protect the shoe from scrapes, cuts, and scratches, Scarpa designers reinforced its lower section with a full-on rand made of lightweight PU (polyurethane). They also furnished the upper’s toe box with heavy-duty rubber for protection against bumpy hazards.

Top 25% in Upper 1.0

Secure fit

Rounding out all things upper in the Mescalito GTX is the shoe’s Extended Lacing lockdown system. It is made up of regular eyelets and synthetic lace.

Top 25% in Laces