In any Italian alpine town hundreds of pairs of Scarpa Mojitos will be pounding the pavement at any given time, and in as many different colours as there are climbing routes in the Aosta Valley. Scarpa pitch this shoe at exactly that - pavement-pounding, climber-about-town, lifestyle. But surely that substantial Vibram Spyder sole unit is capable of more than just helping you put your feet up whilst you sip a cappucino?
There are three things that have made the Scarpa Mojito the insanely popular shoe it is. Firstly, the kind of bomber construction you'd expect from a world-leader in climbing, hiking and mountaineering boots.
Secondly, Italian outdoor styling and the seemingly endless colour options. It may not be marketed as a climbing or approach shoe, but it has that heritage dripping all the way down to its toe-end lacing.
Thirdly, that sole. It seems overkill to have a Vibram Spyder sole unit, with 'climbing zone' rubber underneath the toe rand, on a 'lifestyle' shoe. And it indicates a degree of modesty on Scarpa's part.
A couple of features probably preclude the Mojito from being an out and out approach shoe. The fit is wider in the forefoot than the likes of the Zen Pro. This means less precision in placements, although with the increasing popularity of biomechanics and natural foot movement, this is not necessarily an issue.
The suede upper may be more of an issue if you plan to regularly use the Mojito in the outdoors. More durable materials are certainly available, but then the suede is part of the 'lifestyle' look, and should ensure access to most Prosecco-cocktail-serving establishments.
That is the compromise, but is also the selling point for the active traveller. Those among us who don't wish to book an extra suitcase purely for footwear will appreciate the styling for day-to-day travel needs, but when your travels take you off the beaten track, you won't need a change of shoes.
Many people would accept the price tag for a mere street shoe, but when you factor in the techy Vibram sole, the all-day sightseeing comfort (you may need to swap the flat insole for a more supportive one) and the occasional all-terrain ability, then you understand the incredible popularity of the Scarpa Mojito.
