Vibram announced it is launching a cutting edge interpretation of a watersport approach shoe. FiveFingers is a unique glove-styled shoe with five individually wrapped toes, offering a barefoot sensation with the benefits of a Vibram sole for superior grip and protection from the elements. Ideal as an approach shoe for watersports such as surfing, windsurfing, sailing and other ocean sports, the shoes are also well suited for canoeing, kayaking, canyoneering and sport fishing.

“There are many advantages to going barefoot, it stimulates muscles in the feet and promotes a natural walking motion for better posture and improved foot health,” explains Tony Post, president of Vibram USA. “We’ve taken the best of barefoot walking and added a Vibram sole that protects the foot from the scorching earth and sharp rocks.”

FiveFingers features a proprietary Vibram sole designed to follow the contours and flex points of the foot and toes. It promotes a natural bare foot sensation, yet protects the foot from hot sand, rocks and sharp coral. The sole is razor siped, for additional grip in wet slippery conditions.

Available in Spring 2006, FiveFingers will be distributed in the US to a very limited number of premium outdoor retailers with expertise in and knowledge of high quality watersports products. FiveFingers was originally part of the limited and exclusive “Just For Me” shoe collection from Marco Bramani, grandson of Vibram founder Vitale Bramani. The shoe was launched through a small premium distribution network in Italy in late spring, where it sold out almost immediately.