It’s hard not to notice the automobile-inspired contours of the Monviso. Given Pininfarina’s involvement, it’s hard to imagine a sneaker coming out any other way. Yet despite its hypercar heritage, the Monviso is about anything but going fast. Velasca and Pininfarina put comfort above all else (except style, of course). This shoe is ready to stand up to almost any hiking condition, from Italian cobblestone streets to rugged, snow-covered trails.
The Monviso owes this versatility to its Vibram Trail sole, a shock-resistant and light material specifically designed to offer enhanced grip on the ground. It’s also made from 30% recycled rubber: eco-conscious collectors need not shy away from these soles. A removable insole further increases longevity.
Velasca’s experts form the handmade body from tanned calf leather buffed to a velvety suede finish. Available colors include Grey, Beige, Black, and Blue, with Velasca binding the colors to the leather via a unique process. The impermeable membrane within the shoe ensures that lasting water damage is minimal and that feet stay dry even in soggy conditions.
Velasca even appears to have taken a page from the Pininfarina supercar playbook by focusing more attention on the safety of this shoe’s passengers. Newly-added rigid bumps on this design protect the wearers’ feet from bumps. $400 puts a pair in closets just in time for that Valentine’s day hike to a secluded Italian vineyard.
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