Vibrams are one of the most popular types of footwear for hiking and walking enthusiasts. Created by mountaineer Vitale Bramani in response to the deaths of six of his friends in a mountaineering accident, Vibram walking boots are made from rubber creating an unparalleled grip, especially on slippery and muddy surfaces.
Blaming their inadequate footwear for the tragedy, he engineered the first rubber lug sole which features a deep tread. His design quickly became the go-to sole in the world of mountaineering and Vibram soles were worn by an Italian climber in the first ascent of K2 in 1954.
What is a Vibram sole? And what's so special about them?
Vibram soles are made from exclusive rubber compounds that feature a deep tread similar to one you’d expect to find on a tank or tractor tyre. This provides an exceptional grip and optimal stability that help to enhance performance and improve safety.
The soles are designed specifically for outdoor sports such as mountaineering and climbing and the rugged terrains commonly found in the areas where these activities take place.
Are Vibram Soles Better Than Regular Soles?
The key to the Vibram outsole lies in how the rubber is made. Each type of rubber sole is treated to specifically improve performance in the activity they’ve been designed for. The rubber compounds have either been cooked or heated to alter the material to create the desired effect.
Vulcanised rubber is used for mountaineering boots so that they can withstand extreme terrains such as icy mountaintops and slippery boulders. Vibram sole boots that are designed for climbing are manufactured from rubber that has been treated in a way that creates increased flexibility for enhanced agility and exceptional grip when scaling rock faces.
What Are The Benefits of Vibram Walking Boots?
Walking boots made with Vibram soles have several benefits compared to standard ones. The key benefits include stability, enhanced comfort, and durability.
Superior Traction
Vibram outsoles are renowned for their excellent grip due to their unique, deep tread design. They create stability and increased traction on all types of surfaces such as rocky terrains, wet pavement, and slippery trails.
This traction helps prevent slips and falls, providing stability and safety while walking or climbing.
Durability
The soles are highly durable and designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor activities. Walking boots with a Vibram sole are resistant to abrasion, punctures, and wear and tear.
They’re built to last. But if the rigours of your hill or mountain walking get the better of them, they can be repaired or replaced making them a sustainable option.
Comfort
Many Vibram-equipped walking boots are made with cushioning and support features. The soles move with your feet as one unit providing enhanced comfort straight from the box.
The combination of a supportive midsole and a reliable outsole provides comfort during long walks or hikes making them a popular choice for those who like to push their bodies and their boots to the limit with their outdoor activities.
They are machine washable so can be kept clean easily.
Stability and Versatility
When you’re walking on difficult, unstable terrain, you don’t want to be worrying about whether your footwear is up to the job.
Vibram walking boots are definitely up to the job when it comes to providing stability and support to help you maintain proper alignment. This helps to prevent your ankle from rolling on slippery surfaces and reduces injury risk.
Their versatility makes Vibram soles suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, backpacking, and trail walking.
Weather Resistance
Many Vibram sole boots are waterproof helping to keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable, so you can wear them in wet and muddy conditions, knowing that your feet will be protected.
Our Best Vibram Walking Boots Range
With an ultra-comfortable support system created from its Vibram sole, leather upper and waterproof, breathable membrane, and padded toe joint, it’s easy to see why Quatro is a best-selling walking boot.
Fuse Lowland Trekking Boot (Brown Waxed Leather)
If you’re looking for a lightweight, low-cut walking boot with great comfort, and support providing high performance and a traditional look, Fuse is the walking boot for you.
Lady Glide is an ultra-stylish hiking boot with lots of comfort features including a padded to-joint and collar, jointed padded tongue, and triple-density cushioned mid-sole making them comfortable straight from the box.
Made using renewable solar energy, these Vibram soled boots provide excellent grip and comfort right from the box with their cushioned midsole.