A few months ago, we were introduced to a new running shoe company — Veloci. Their debut model, the Ascent, wasn’t perfect (how many first launches are?), but for a brand-new company — and one founded by a college student, no less — it was a very solid inaugural release.
Now, Veloci is back with its second offering, the Mesa, a shoe that aims to bring a bit more stability into the mix while maintaining the clean, modern aesthetic that caught our attention the first time around.
Looks
Like the Ascent, the Mesa carries a minimalist sophistication. It’s available in two colorways — a soft grey and Mocha (what I call a warm, almost “dirty brick dust” brown) — both featuring Veloci’s signature feather motif. It’s a subtle yet memorable design element that stands out without shouting for attention. I love the look of this shoe — it says enough without saying too much.
Construction and Fit
The wide toe box is one of the first things you’ll notice — and for some runners, it’s a game changer. While I don’t personally need a wide fit, I always appreciate when brands nail the balance between space and structure. Veloci has managed to do just that. The Mesa’s toe box allows for natural toe splay and comfort without making the shoe look bulky or clownish, which can be a challenge for wider designs.
For runners who crave a bit more wiggle room but don’t want to jump into the zero- or low-drop world (where wide options are more common), the Mesa offers a rare combo — a roomy toe box paired with a higher 10mm drop.
Specs
- Stack Height: 39mm/29mm
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 9.5 oz
The numbers are identical to the Ascent, but the Mesa’s focus is stability. That’s where this model carves out its niche.
Upper
The upper feels familiar — and that’s because it may be the same woven material used in the Ascent. It’s soft, supportive, and provides a snug, foot-hugging fit without feeling restrictive. The stiff heel counter helps lock the foot in place, while the gusseted tongue adds comfort and prevents slipping or hot spots.
Breathability isn’t its strongest suit — it’s not stuffy, but I wouldn’t call it airy either. During testing in moderate temperatures, it performed well, but I’m curious to see how it fares in the peak of summer.
The Wingwall Stability system — essentially a firm sidewall designed to guide the foot — adds noticeable support without being intrusive. It gently corrects overpronation, making it a solid option for runners who need some help keeping their stride aligned.
Midsole
The midsole combines EVA, OBC POE, and TPU, and the result is a ride that feels firm but responsive. With 39mm of cushioning in the heel, there’s plenty of protection, but don’t expect a “cloud-like” sensation. Compared to some modern trainers, the Mesa rides on the firmer side — possibly influenced by the 10mm drop.
This firmness isn’t a bad thing — it translates into stability and a bit of pop when you pick up the pace. Thanks to the rocker geometry, the shoe transitions smoothly through your stride. It’s not a speed shoe, but there’s a touch of hidden liveliness here — more than you’d expect from a stability-focused daily trainer.
If you like a plush, marshmallow-soft experience, this probably isn’t your jam. But if you value a stable, grounded feel with some spring, the Mesa delivers.
Outsole
The outsole is straightforward and effective. There’s plenty of rubber coverage for road running and decent traction even on damp pavement. I still maintain that the central channel looks like an homage to the Colorado River running through the designer’s hometown of Austin — but maybe that’s just my imagination.
Either way, the design works. It’s durable, grippy, and can handle light, dry trails if needed.
Conclusion
The Veloci Mesa represents a confident step forward for a young brand that’s clearly listening, learning, and refining. It won’t be for everyone — the wide box and double-digit drop won’t appeal to every runner — but it fills an important niche for those seeking a stable, structured daily trainer with more room and a focus on protecting the lower legs.
While there are a few areas that could evolve (slightly more breathable upper, perhaps a bit more midsole softness), the Mesa is another strong entry from Veloci. For a company still in its infancy, this is an impressive, well-thought-out shoe that proves the Ascent was no fluke.
Bottom line:
If you’re a runner who values stability, space, and a secure ride, the Mesa is absolutely worth a look.