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Vibram Soles

A Vibram sole should be one of the biggest features you look for when making a hiking boot selection.

Deciding on how to differentiate one boot from the next can get overwhelming, especially with all the variety of hiking boots to choose from.

You have to find the right size, the right fit, make sure its waterproof, and make sure it’s just overall the right boot for your adventure.  

However, the 2 most important criteria for finding the right boot for you should include comfort and performance on the trail.

Comfort really comes down to personal preference.

But performance on the trail starts from the bottom up, specifically in the sole.

Your boot asks a lot out of the sole including traction, stability, comfort, durability

This is why we recommend including a Vibram sole as part of your selection criteria.  

RELATED: Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners: How To Choose Your Right Trail Footwear In 2024

Men’s Hiking Boots

[su_spoiler title=”Click Here To Reveal The Men’s Hiking Boots Of 2024” style=”simple” icon=”caret-square”]{div id="bullet_points"} {/div}

[su_tabs style=”wood”][su_tab title=”Best Of List” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]

KEEN Men’s Revel III Hiking Boot

KEEN Men's Revel 3 Mid Height Hiking Boot
(4.8 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Lots of heat trapping insulation with the Nubuck Leather and Keen's Heat Trapolator technology
  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight for a Winter boot
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Some customers have complained about faulty stitching and problems with the laces
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The KEEN Men’s Revel III Hiking Boot is a stylish, all-terrain, winter hiking boot that will keep your feet happy in tough conditions. The Revel III’s are built with waterproof Nubuck leather and provide enough insulation thanks to Keen’s “Heat Trapolator” technology which works as a 3 layer system to keep heat inside the shoe.

Price not available

Salomon Men’s X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Multifunctional Hiking Boot

Salomon Men's X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Multifunctional Hiking Boot
(4.7 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • 4 season boots built for most conditions and weather
  • Strong waterproofing and breathability
  • Tough Sole/heel/and toe
  • Incredibly flexible and comfortable
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Kind of narrow for wider feet
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Salomon Men’s X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Multifunctional Hiking Boot is a great lightweight hiking boot that will offer protection from the elements and foot pain. The Ultra Mid 2’s uppers are made with a polyurethane coated leather and textile combo fabric that helps make it waterproof and flexible for comfort and dryness.

Price not available

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
(4.6 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Vibram TC5 outsole with 5mm lugs offer great traction
  • M SELECT™ Dry makes these boots waterproof
  • Durable yet breathable upper made from suede/leather/mesh
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • They fit tight so order a half size up from your normal shoe size
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is an incredibly comfortable boot that offers great support in challenging environments. The Vibram TC5 outsole with 5mm lug depth gives you a ton of traction along with the Merrell air cushion in the heel give you much-needed comfort and reliability when climbing or declining.

Price not available

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot

Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot
(4.3 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Good hot weather hiking boot
  • Great ventilation
  • Very durable
  • Strong and comfortable Vibram sole
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Not at all waterproof
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot is a great boot for those shorter, low maintenance hikes where you don’t need the robustness and durability of a more expensive boot. The Moab 2 Vents offer great traction and control thanks to the Vibram sole and the Merrell air cushion in the heel.

Price not available

Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot

Salomon Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX Lightweight & Durable Leather /...
(4.2 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Incredible durability
  • Very breathable and waterproof
  • Great traction on sole
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • The toe box can be a little tight
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot is a comfortable, yet technical boot that offers premium performance no matter what distance or conditions you pose them. The Salomon Quest 2’s are a top 3 season boot choice for amongst thru-hikers and have developed a bit of a cult following.

Price not available

KEEN – Men’s Durand Mid Waterproof Boot

KEEN - Men's Durand Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
(4.2 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Waterproof, 4 season
  • Plenty of grip and traction
  • Wide toebox
  • Durable for short and longterm backpacking
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Loose in the heel
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The KEEN Men’s Durand Mid Waterproof Boot is a great 4 season mid-length boot that performs well on a variety of terrain. Like other Keen boots, the Durand Mid’s were very durable and the waterproofing keeps the water out while staying breathable on the inside thanks to Keen’s Dry waterproofing materials, nubuck leather, and mesh uppers.

Price not available

Merrell Men’s Moab Polar Waterproof Winter Boot

Merrell Men's Moab Polar Waterproof Winter Boot
(4.2 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Very warm and waterproof boot
  • Tough outer and midsoles with plenty of ice grip traction
  • They look great in pants
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Inside is too narrow for wide feet
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Merrell Men’s Moab Polar Waterproof Winter Boot is a well-insulated winter boot that will keep your feet very warm and dry. The 400 Gram insulation will give you plenty of warmth and cushion inside the boot including so unless you are dealing with frigid temps you don’t have to worry about sock thickness.

Price not available

Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot

Timberland Men's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
(4.1 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Lots of waterproofing features including seam sealed waterproof liner and EVA breathable footbed
  • Good for hiking or city work
  • B.S.F.P. (Brake, Support, Flex, and Propel) lug system gives dynamic control and traction,
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Lots of stiffness especially near the front of the tongue
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Timberland White Ledge Men’s Waterproof Boot is the big guns you call in when you need a durable boot that looks good and can stand up to the roughest outdoor terrain. These leather boots will keep your feet dry with a seam-sealed waterproof liner and a removable, dual-density EVA breathable footbed which provides better circulation.

Price not available

Timberland Men’s Mt. Maddsen Hiker Boot

Timberland Men's Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt....
(4.1 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Built for comfort and versatility on the top and bottom,
  • Strong outsole with great traction and grip for rigid day hikes
  • Versatile for the trail and city work
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Narrow fit for a wider fit
  • The tongue tends to dig into the top of your feet
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Timberland Men’s Mt. Maddsen Hiker Boot are great boots on and off the trail. Like most Timberland’s they are high quality on top and bottom. The waterproof leather uppers are comfortable and flexible which makes these a great boot to stay fearless in most weather conditions including the rain and snow.

Price not available

Merrell Men’s Turku Trek Waterproof Winter Boot

Merrell Men's Turku Trek Waterproof Winter Boot
(3.9 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Versatile/stylish boot
  • Good for Snow and Ice in the city
  • Good odor control
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • The waterproofing doesn't seem to hold up
  • Padding under your feet is kind of weak
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Merrell Men’s Turku Trek Waterproof Winter Boot are a stylish hiking boot that will pair well with street clothes, but maybe not the best for long hikes or winter treks. They have some nice features like Merrell’s patented M Select DRY for water and moisture proofing along with M Select Fresh which helps keep out the odor.

Price not available

Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boot

Timberland Men's Flume Waterproof Boot
(3.9 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Fully waterproof and durable
  • Great comfort inside the foot
  • BFSP motion efficiency system
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Not well ventilated or breathable
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

Timberland Men’s Flume Waterproof Boot is a stylish, waterproof boot that’s built tough to withstand mother nature all year round. The uppers are made with a fully waterproof, abrasion proof leather and seam-sealed construction that can handle rain, snow, puddles, streams or and spilled coffee.

Price not available

Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking...
(3.8 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Great arch support
  • Excellent traction
  • Good for 4 seasons
  • Lightweight
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Waterproofing is a bit suspect. Not a deal-breaker though
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots are a comfortable, 4 season hiking boot that feels great right out of the box. The Newton Ridge 2’s are light on the feet and offer a lot of support due to the shank under the arch.

Price not available

Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boot

Timberland Men's Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof Boot
(3.7 / 5)

The Timberland Men’s Chocorua Trail Gore-Tex Mid Hiking Boot is a super comfortably fitting boot. This is one of Timberland’s signature hiking boots. Right out of the box your feet ease into the boot and will find a very cozy fit. They are lightweight and work well for hiking and as work boots.

Price not available

KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
(3.5 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Very lightweight
  • Water resistant
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Heel and lowers wear down
  • Shoe laces tear easily
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a comfortable boot that looks better than it actually performs. On your feet, the Keen’s are light weighing in at 17 ounces with a waterproof exterior and tough 4mm multidirectional lugs.

Price not available
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[su_tab title=”In-Depth Comparison Chart” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””][/su_tab][/su_tabs]

Last update on 2023-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

[/su_spoiler]

Men’s Trail Runners

[su_spoiler title=”Click Here To Reveal The Men’s Trail Runners Of 2024” style=”simple” icon=”caret-square”]{div id="bullet_points"} {/div}

[su_tabs style=”wood”][su_tab title=”Best Of List” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]

[/su_tab]

[su_tab title=”In-Depth Comparison Chart” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]

[posts_table post_type="product_review" term="product_type:Footwear" sort_by="cf:star_rating_table_display" sort_order="desc" cf="sexshoes:men,shoe_style1:Trail Runners" columns="cf:amazon_small_thumb:Image,cf:amazon_link:Name,cf:star_rating_table_display:Our Rating,cf:waterproof2:Waterproof,cf:rainfly_included:Rainfly,cf: sack_included:Stuff Sack,cf:straps_included1:Straps Incl,cf:amazon_price:Price,cf:amazon_button:Where to Buy" image_size="150" post_limit="10" shortcodes="true" priorities="1,2,12"]

[/su_tab][/su_tabs]

Last update on 2023-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

[/su_spoiler]

Women’s Hiking Boots

[su_spoiler title=”Click Here To Reveal The Women’s Hiking Boots Of 2024” style=”simple” icon=”caret-square”]{div id="bullet_points"} {/div}

[su_tabs style=”wood”][su_tab title=”Best Of List” disabled=”no” anchor=”” url=”” target=”blank” class=””]

KEEN Women’s Targhee II

KEEN Women's Targhee ILI Mid WP Hiking Boot
(4.9 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Great looking boot
  • Lots of ankle and foot support
  • Easily removable and comfortable insole
  • Lots of traction on the outsole
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Even though the toe box is wide it is kind of vertically short for bigger toes
  • The tongue pokes into the top part of the ankle
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot is a great waterproof boot built to handle even the roughest trails. The Keen Dry waterproof lining will keep water out of the boot while keeping the inside nice and ventilated. The boots are extremely lightweight and offer amazing arch support.

Price not available

Timberland Women’s White Ledge

Timberland Women's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
(4.8 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Lots of comfort and waterproofing, ,
  • Strong/supportive outsole
  • Easy removable insole
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • The back tends to chafe against your heel
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot durable boot that provides amazing traction and toughness for any trail or outdoor professional. These boots are built with dependable leather uppers in which the waterproofing is worked into the tanning process and then add a seam taped waterproof membrane lining which works to protect your feet from rain, snow, streams, and puddles.

Price not available

Ahnu Women’s Montara

Ahnu Women's Montara Waterproof Boot
(4.8 / 5)

The Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Boot offers great support and comfort for your adventure on or off the trail. The uppers are made with Nubuck waterproof leather and a suede collar and a shock dispersal plate in the front of the boot.

Price not available

Salomon Women’s Quest 4D GTX

Salomon Women's Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot
(4.8 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Waterproof with Gore-Tex
  • Lightweight for a backpacking boot
  • Lots of traction and stability
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • They take a little time to break in
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Salomon Women’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boot is a great fitting boot that’s built for heavy-duty hiking and backpacking. The uppers are very durable made from 3D mesh textile and Nubuck leather. They’re also made with Gore-Tex for complete waterproof protection.

Price not available

KEEN Women’s Voyageur Mid

KEEN Women's Voyageur Mid Hiking Boot
(4.7 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Extremely breathable and well ventilated
  • Plenty of traction in the outsole
  • Lots of shock absorption and heel support
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Not waterproof
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The KEEN Women’s Voyageur Mid Hiking Boot is a great boot for warmer dry weather. Keen made a compromise with this boot to trade the waterproofing barrier for a more breathable upper lining. As a result, the Voyageurs are some of the best-ventilated women’s hiking boots on the market.

Price not available

Merrell Women’s Moab 2

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
(4.6 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Deep lugs and traction on the outsole
  • Plenty of shock absorption and support on the bottom of your feet
  • Waterproof uppers
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • They run a little small be sure to order a 1/2 size up
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a tough mid-cut hiking boot that will help make your hike a little less demanding. The boots weigh less than a pound but provide enough traction below that you can feel confident trekking through most terrain.

Price not available

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot
(3.8 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Lightweight at only 16 ounces
  • Waterproof full grain leather uppers with Omnishield
  • Inexpensive
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • The insoles are kind of thin,
  • Very narrow toebox
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot is a stellar, affordable boot that will keep you light on your feet and your wallet. These boots are absolutely on point with their performance and Columbia’s craftsmanship. The “Plus” comes from the fact that the back comes up higher on your ankle and will provide plenty of ankle support.

Price not available

Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine

Ahnu Women's Sugarpine Hiking Boot
(3.7 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Very waterproof, comfortable right out of the box
  • Plenty of traction and durability
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • Inner tongue stitching is pokey
  • Quite warm on the inside
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot is a stylish, lightweight boot that will keep your feet happy even on longer trails. These boots feel super light on your feet and the extra interior padding helps keep your feet comfy.

Price not available

Salomon Women’s X Ultra Mid 2 GTX

Salomon Women's X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Hiking Shoe
(3.5 / 5)
[su_row][su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Pros

[su_list icon="icon: check-circle-o" icon_color="#008000"]
  • Goretex and mesh in the uppers
  • Strong and durable lacing eyelits
  • Great traction in the outsoles
  • Very breathable
[/su_list] [/su_column] [su_column size="1/2" center="no" class=""]

Cons

[su_list icon="icon: times-circle-o" icon_color="#ff0000"]
  • TIght on the sides and up against the tongue
[/su_list] [/su_column][/su_row]

The Salomon Women’s X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Hiking Shoe is a great hiking boot/running shoe hybrid perfect for those looking for some extra versatility in a lightweight hiking shoe. The shoes are waterproof with Gore-Tex for protection and ventilation and will keep you protected in most terrain and weather.

Price not available
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Last update on 2023-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Women’s Trail Runners

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Last update on 2023-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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What Is A Vibram Sole

Vibram soles are a lightweight, durable brand of shoe and boot soles that come with particular shoes and boots for sale.

They can also be added on after the initial sale of the footwear.  

You can simply purchase the soles yourself and bring them into a shoe repair shop.

Or you can catch the Vibram Sole Factor tour bus in your town where you can purchase new Vibram soles.

In fact, they’ll even install them for you on the spot!

Vibram Men's V Trail Runner
The Vibram Men’s V Trail Runners are lightweight and durable.

Vibram Sole History

The Vibram company was founded in 1935 in Italy by Vitale Bramani after 6 of his mountaineering friends lost their lives climbing through the Italian Alps.  

Footwear and a particularly nasty blizzard were to blame.  

Back then climbers used to wear boots with leather soles, pounding hobnails and cleats to the bottom for better grip.  

This was only a minor patch on a bigger problem with trekking and mountaineering boots.

And for the most part, this lack of dependable boots kept people off the trail.  

Vitale eventually went to work creating a new lugged, rubber boot sole.  

With the financial backing of Leopoldo Pirelli (Pirelli Tires), Vitale Bramani created the Vibram company specializing in rubber, high traction soles.  

The first sole traction patterns were inspired by the aggressive tread on military tanks. 

The purpose of the Vibram soles was to be functional and provide support on a variety of different surfaces.

These included snow, forest floor, and slippery rocks.  

Ahnu Women's Montara Waterproof Boot
The Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Boot provides lots of traction and outsole support thanks to the Vibram sole.

As time went on Bramani’s rubber boot soles became more sophisticated including improved traction and longevity.  

This almost singlehandedly made outdoor adventuring and mountaineering more popular in the mainstream.

Hiking in the outdoors was no longer just a fringe thing for crazy mountain climbers with makeshift boots.

Almost 20 years after Vitale rolled out the first Vibram sole, a group of Italian climbers made the first ever ascension to the top of K2 (the world’s 2nd tallest mountain) wearing boots equipped with Vibram soles.  

Today you find Vibram soles gracing the bottoms of some of the most popular outdoor footwear.  

They provide lightweight comfort as well as superb shock absorption.  

They also help keep you less fatigued on the trail.  

 

Why Vibram Soles Are Great For Hiking

Much in the same spirit as when Vitale Bramani modeled his first soles after the traction on tanks, Vibram soles will also turn your footwear into a tank.

Whether it’s a boot or shoe, the Vibrams are lightweight, durable, and incredibly grippy. 

Merrell Men's Trail Glove 4 Runner
The Merrell Men’s Glove 4 Trail Runner has plenty of ventilation and comfort in the uppers.

 

One of the top complaints among adventurers regarding footwear is the lack of tread.  

Vibram soles eliminate this concern as their number one priority is providing excellent grip and traction while providing amazing comfort.

Each sole made by Vibram is made with care and is subject to a 4 point quality control inspection conducted by a real person. 

These points include checking for rheometry, hardness, abrasion, and density.

While the sole protects your feet from all the ground elements, you will also notice how light the bottom of the shoe is and how fearless you’ll become of most terrain.  Whether you’re ascending or descending the firm grip you get from Vibram soles will make the outdoors an even more enjoyable experience.  

The Best Vibram Soles For Hiking

Vibram offers a number of different styles and compounds of soles that will work for most anyone’s specific needs and adventures.  

Each sole is made from a number of different compounds including Vibram’s own patented materials.  

For hiking look for soles with the compound XS Trek.  

This was designed for added stability and comfort along with flexibility and wet traction.  

The best Vibram soles for your standard hiking boot should also include Megagrip, Morflex, or Idrogrip.  

For icier and colder conditions Arctic Grip works best.  

Vibram Soles Are For More Than Just Hiking

The beauty of Vibram’s products is their flexibility.  

Of course, they give you peace of mind and performance on the trail, but you can also attach them to your city shoes.

This can totally revitalize an old, worn out pair of shoes that were literally steps from being thrown out.

A lot of people will use the soles on regular walking and running shoes.  

They even work on the bottoms of dress shoes.  

For these occasions stick with the Cityplus and XS City grips and the Gumlite and Vi-lite products 

They also work as a great addition for shoes worn by elderly folks who are at risk of slipping or anyone working on slippery surfaces for that matter.

Many heavy duty construction boots also include Vibram soles.

 

Last update on 2023-02-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Erik

Erik grew up as a desert rat in Arizona. After exploring the backcountry of the west coast he came east for a job but still finds time to explore the beauty of the northeast.