Vibram was named one of the top ten most significant gear innovations in the history of outdoor sports according to the February 2004 issue of Hooked on the Outdoors.
“Vibram is honored to be named as a manufacturer of gear that has changed the world,” said Tony Post, president of Vibram USA. “Since 1937, Vibram has passionately committed itself to designing and producing functional footwear soles of the highest quality, crucial for top performance and safety. As a result, weve established valuable partnerships with premium footwear companies in a variety of categories from mountaineering, backpacking and industrial to sports and fashion. We will continue to pursue new and challenging opportunities where Vibram can add value and enhance experiences in peoples lives.”
The editors at Hooked on the Outdoors identified revolutionary gear, noting that all ten winners were dedicated to “protecting the environment, saving lives and changing popular culture.” They recognized Vibram founder Vitale Bramani, who in 1937 created the first rubber sole used for mountaineering after archaic approach boots contributed to the deaths of several climbing partners in the Alps. In addition, the editors cited the importance of Vibrams rubber soles for maintaining maximum surface contact and traction resulting in increased safety.
