VIBRAM

Vibram is an Italian outsole company best known for the rubber soles and yellow octagon logo found on hiking, work, and everyday footwear. According to Wikipedia and our collection page, it was founded in 1937 by Vitale Bramani, who is credited with inventing the first rubber lug soles to replace heavy iron studs, and the company is headquartered in Albizzate, Italy. At Sole Provisions, the Vibram collection includes hiking shoes, walking shoes, sneakers, and boots built on Vibram soles, and it sits naturally beside our wider hiking shoes, walking shoes, and work shoes selections.

The sole is the part of a shoe that touches the ground, so it shapes traction, cushioning, and how long a pair lasts. Vibram has made that its entire focus, supplying soles to many footwear makers as well as selling its own styles. The sections below explain what makes Vibram soles different, the main technologies, and how to choose a pair for your terrain.

An Italian Story Rooted in the Mountains

Vitale Bramani founded Vibram in 1937 after developing the Carrarmato sole, a rubber lugged design that replaced heavy iron studs, according to our collection page. Our page says he tested an early sample on a climb of the North West face of Pizzo Badile, which helps explain the brand's alpine heritage. The company is private and operates in several countries. For other outdoor and hiking brands, you may also like Merrell, Keen, and Danner.

Megagrip for Wet and Dry Traction

Our collection page describes the Megagrip compound as providing traction on wet and dry surfaces. Traction depends on the compound, the lug pattern, and the surface, so no sole grips equally well everywhere. Walk carefully on ice, wet rock, and polished floors, and check each product page for the details of your style. If you walk in rain often, explore our women's waterproof and men's waterproof shoes.

Directional Lug Patterns

Lug patterns are designed for the terrain a shoe is meant for. Deeper lugs bite into dirt and loose ground, while shallower patterns suit pavement and urban walking. Our collection page describes directional lug patterns for terrain specific grip, so choose a pattern that matches where you walk most.

Ecostep Recycled Rubber

Ecostep uses recycled rubber in the sole. Recycled materials are one way brands approach sustainability, and the details differ by product, so check each product page for how much recycled content a style uses.

Vibram FiveFingers

Vibram FiveFingers have individual toe pockets for a barefoot like feel, according to our collection page. They are a very different kind of shoe from a cushioned trail shoe, and they take time to adapt to. Wikipedia notes that a 2012 class action over FiveFingers health claims was settled in 2014, with Vibram denying fault. Because minimalist footwear is not right for everyone, check with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your feet.

Lightweight, Shock Absorbing Options

The collection includes lightweight and shock absorbing sole options. A lighter shoe tends to feel easier over long distances, and shock absorbing midsoles soften the impact of each step. How long a sole lasts depends on the compound, your weight, the surface, and how often you wear the shoe, so there is no single answer. Replace shoes when the tread is worn smooth or the cushioning feels flat. Explore our shoe inserts if you want added comfort.

Hiking, Walking, and Everyday Styles

The collection includes styles such as the V Trek, V Trail 2.0, V Alpha, Furoshiki, and the Furoshiki Mid Boot. Hiking shoes suit trails, walking shoes suit city and travel days, and sneakers and boots work for everyday wear. Browse more in our hiking shoes, walking shoes, men's sneakers, and work shoes. Many styles are discounted and can sell out, so check availability.

Choosing the Right Fit

Width and sizing details are not listed on the collection page, so check each product page and try a pair in store when you can. Wear the socks you plan to wear for hiking or work, and try shoes later in the day, when feet tend to be fullest. Pair them with women's socks or men's socks. If you need more room, browse our wide width shoes. For a personal fitting, visit one of our Sole Provisions locations, or read more in our educational hub.

A Few Vibram Details Worth Knowing

• Italian outsole company founded in 1937 by Vitale Bramani.

• Headquartered in Albizzate, Italy, according to Wikipedia.

• Megagrip compound for wet and dry traction, according to our collection page.

• Ecostep recycled rubber.

• FiveFingers with individual toe pockets.

• Hiking, walking, sneaker, and boot styles.

• Styles and availability change often.

• Free shipping on orders over $75, see our shipping policy and returns page.

Explore More Hiking and Outdoor Footwear

If you like Vibram, compare it with Merrell for hiking shoes, Keen for outdoor sandals and boots, Danner for work and hiking boots, Hoka for cushioned trail shoes, or Altra for roomy toe boxes. Check new arrivals and sale items for the latest styles and markdowns.

Related Collections: Hiking Shoes · Walking Shoes · Work Shoes · Men's Sneakers · Men's Waterproof · Merrell · Keen · Danner