What Does Shoe Width (AAA, AA, A,B,C,D,E, EE and EEE) Mean ?

Finding shoe sizes is a maze of numbers and letters for the layman. The U.S. and Europe measure sizes differently, men and women have different size standards, and there is virtually no true standard shared by all manufacturers.

However, amidst this chaos of size descriptions, there is another often-overlooked description. That is shoe width. Choosing shoe width is as important for comfort as length.

This is especially important for shoes that are stiff, narrow, and planned to be used extensively for walking, commuting, and cycling. Narrow shoes can compress the foot and cause cramping, while wide shoes can cause friction as the foot moves, which can lead to blisters.

While it may be possible to narrow or widen the width of a shoe after purchase, especially in the case of leather shoes, it is much easier and more comfortable in the long run to decide on a shoe width from the start. The key to determining shoe width is a series of cryptic letters that are usually listed along with the length.

There are nine different shoe widths used in the United States, and the combination of letters can designate narrow, medium, or wide. Of course, there are deviations from this scale if it is not complex enough.

If you have ever wondered what a notation such as b(m) or 2e on a shoe label means, this article is for you. We will teach you all you need to know about how to read the shoe width letters to find the perfect shoe for your foot width.

Shoe Width Scale

In the United States, there are nine different shoe width scales, in order from narrowest to widest: AAA, AA, A, B, C, D, E, EE, and EEE. This scale is somewhat easier to remember because of its alphabetical order, but of course, it is not always obvious at a glance.

Double and triple sizes A and E are often abbreviated as 2a, 3e, and so on. To complicate matters further, some manufacturers have adopted additional designations for oversized shoes, such as 4th and 5th. These unorthodox designations are most often found on men’s boots that are marketed as extra wide.

The physical dimensions represented by the shoe width letter vary depending on the length of the shoe. For example, in men’s shoe sizes, a size 10 D-width shoe may have a width of 10 cm at the ball of the thumb, while the same size 14 D-width shoe may have a width of 10 cm at the same height.

Therefore, if you have to select multiple lengths for the same shoe, you should also check if you need to specify different widths for the two shoe sizes.

• A-Width

The A width is typically used for women’s shoes that are labeled as suitable for narrow feet. Since relatively few men have such narrow feet, it is rarely used in men’s shoes. A-width shoes are generally 3.4 to 3.9 inches in diameter at the top of the foot.

AA or 2A-width shoes are also commonly used for women and are slightly narrower, but the difference between A and 2A is largely due to manufacturer standards.

• B width

B width is the standard width for women’s shoes and is considered extremely narrow for men’s shoes. If the width is not specified as wide or narrow in women’s shoes, it is most likely B width. B-width shoes are generally 3.6 to 4.1 inches in diameter at the top of the foot.

• D width

D width is generally considered medium width for men’s shoes and wide for women’s shoes. For men, shoes that are not labeled “wide” or “narrow” are generally D-width. D-width refers to a width of 3 to 5 inches at the ball of the thumb, but generally 4 to 4.5 inches.

• E-Width

E-Width is a typical classification of wide shoe size for men and is considered extra wide for women’s shoes. Typically, men’s shoes are between 10 cm and 15 cm at the top of the foot.

• EE width

EE width, the widest on the conventional scale, is rarely found in women’s shoes and is considered extra-wide in men’s shoes. However, transgender people have created a niche for extra-wide women’s shoes, and many EE-width shoes for women have appeared in recent years. EE-width shoes are generally 4.4 to 4.9 inches wide, but there are also shoes available in 3.4 to 5.4-inch widths.

Manufacturers And Availability

It is important to remember that each manufacturer uses its own footprint to make shoes and specify sizes. Therefore, shoe widths vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and even between different models of the same manufacturer.

In addition, how the physical width of a given character adapts to changes in shoe length depends on the make and model of the shoe in question. Unfortunately, not all shoes are available in all lengths and widths.

In particular, shoes in sizes 2A or narrow and 2E or wide are relatively rare, according to people with narrow or wide feet. These extra-narrow and extra-wide sizes are often only available in short and long lengths, respectively. Unfortunately, extra wide shoe sizes are traditionally lacking in women’s shoes, while extra narrow shoe sizes are traditionally lacking in men’s shoes.

Fitting

The best way to determine the width of the shoe you need is to have your feet measured by a shoe expert in a store. Scales sold in stores are very accurate. However, your feet may swell or shrink over time as you gain weight or as your body’s water retention capacity changes, so be sure to have them measured each time you go to the store.

Of course, don’t forget to try on the same shoe in several widths to find the width that best fits your feet in that shoe model. Wearing shoes that fit not only the length of your foot but also the width, is very important to keep your feet comfortable for a long time.

Shoes that are too narrow or too wide can quickly cause discomfort, so a good fit is essential for shoes that you plan to walk in for long periods of time.

Unfortunately, the notation of shoe width is somewhat complicated and varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, from one shoe model to another, and even from one version of the same shoe model to another.

Therefore, it is essential to try on the shoes before purchasing them to ensure that they fit properly, and to use the width measurements as a guide, not as an absolute measurement.

Now that you know how to read shoe-width letters, we’d love to know if this information helped you with your last pair of shoe fittings! Let us know in the comments section below.

You can also share this article with your friends so they know how to decipher the shoe width letter.

The stagehands are always on their feet. I mean, no other profession is so demanding.

I tend to complain about the long hours of standing, but I have never seen another man spend as much time on his feet as my friend Barry. I’ve known Barry since high school and he is a machinist. He is on his feet 12 hours a day, every day, without a break, operating machinery. I told him I wanted work shoes that were very comfortable and supportive, but he said he had tried several and none seemed to work.

So I decided to help Barry and many other friends in the same line of work with this article about the 9+ Best Boots for Machinists.

Best Boots for Machinists

Finding the Best Boots for Machinists was not always difficult. In Rome, there were two types of sandals, those with traction nails and those without; by 1800, workers had a choice between laces and buckles. A little later, anatomical left and right boots appeared. Rubber soles became popular with the introduction of the Goodyear welt, and by the end of World War II, steel toe protectors were developed. Since then, functions and options have snowballed. Today, there is a boot for every type of industry. There are variations in width, height, color, material, type of toe protection, water resistance, oil resistance, chemical resistance, and more.

Here you can find brief information about the Best Boots for Machinists. Then you can read what you need to know before you buy and detailed reviews about these boots and other top-performing boots.

Best Boots for Machinists | Comparison Table 2022

Best Boots for Machinists | Product Overview 2022

How To Choose The Best Boots for Machinists | Ultimate Guide 2022

Things to consider when choosing work boots can include what you want them to wear and whether you need features such as safety toe options (such as steel toe or rubber toe caps), rubber outsoles, mesh lining, waterproof membrane or electrical hazard safety features.

Safety toe caps provide maximum protection, while leather uppers add comfort to your workday. Combine these elements with other features such as a roomy toe box, and you can have an ideal pair of work boots that offer maximum protection.

Protection Against Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards in the workplace are a serious problem. Mechanics have many machines connected to them, so work boots with toe safety as well as electrical hazard (EH) in line with safety standards can save lives.

Because EH-rated footwear provides secondary protection against electrical shock and electrical hazards, we have included several antistatic work boots on our list.

Types of Work Boots

Here are the different types of work boots and the benefits of each for different work situations.

Composite Toe Cap.

Traditional steel toe boots are not the only safe toe boot option, composite toe work boots can be equally safe and also lightweight.

Steel Toe Work Boots

To maximize toe protection, steel toe boots are the go-to steel toe, steel toe can make work boots heavier.

Resistance

Oil-resistant or waterproof work boots combined with a rubber outsole can help prevent slipping and minimize the possibility of falls.

Rubber Outsole

In addition, to slip resistance, a good rubber sole and heel provide anti-static safety features and can make mechanical work boots comfortable to wear for 8 hours or more.

Arch Support

For comfortable arch support, choose a work boot with a leather upper. Other options include EVA memory foam midsoles and removable insoles that can be replaced with special orthopedic insoles if needed.

Three Features Required For The Best Boots for Machinists

Durability Tested

If I have learned anything after many years of looking at boots, it is that the best work boots for mechanics need to be durable. The reason for this is that when it comes to the environment where mechanics work, there are a lot of sharp machines and metal used. Some of them are so sharp that you will want to try any boots on them.

Remember, I don’t use boots that won’t last more than 6 months. I feel no better than spending a little extra money and knowing that I will get boots with top-quality leather that will withstand harsh outdoor conditions as if it was nothing.

Protection Against Falling Objects

As a machinist, the protection starts at your toes. I can’t believe how many of my machinist friends have told me about accidents that happen in their workplaces. That’s why you need boots that can provide the right level of protection.

And what better way to keep your feet safe than with a pair of steel-toed safety boots? I remember the first time I used a pair of steel-toed boots like it was yesterday. They saved my life when a heavy hammer fell off a table and crushed my foot.

Solid Comfort For 12 Hours Of Standing work

When getting the best work boots for mechanics, comfort is paramount.

You will quickly understand that in manufacturing and other industries that use heavy machinery, most of the time you will need to work standing up. In this context, comfortable work shoes are designed to prevent you from getting tired quickly. This allows you to work comfortably for extended periods of time.

Second, if you choose the wrong boots, you run the risk of injuring your feet, among other things. I have seen many people suffer from such injuries. This is especially true for machinists since they perform all kinds of heavy work, such as carrying tools and operating heavy machinery.

FAQs

Do heavy equipment operators need steel boots?

Handling heavy tools is routine for machine operators. That is why they need good protective features such as safety steel toe caps on these Timberland pit bosses, which keep the toes fully insulated from any falling heavy objects that could seriously damage them.

Steel toe or composite toe?

Steel toe boots offer better protection than composite toe boots, as they can withstand higher impacts. They are cheaper than composite toe boots. However, steel-toe boots are heavier than composite-toe boots and do not breathe. Therefore, they are not suitable for prolonged wear.

How should work boots be chosen?

Wear the same socks you wear at work. Polyester or wool and synthetic blends are more comfortable for the feet than cotton …
Check the length …
Make sure the laces hold the foot comfortably …
Make sure the boots flex at the ball of the thumb …
At the end of the day, try on your work boots.

Conclusion

In this guide, you will find 9+ Best Boots for Machinists and also their features. hope you like our guide.

Happy Shopping!

There is a common misconception that all work boots need to be heavy and bulky.

But while this may be true in some cases, it is not the case in others, as some brands are investing millions of dollars in new technology to make ever lighter and safer work boots.

But who is making these “lightweight” work boots?

Well, we will answer that in this article. Let’s begin.

Who makes the lightest work boots?

Let’s take a look at all the brands that have invested millions of dollars to bring lightweight, well-equipped work boots to the market.

1. Timberland

The first thing to note with Timberland work boots is that they have excellent features that make them extremely comfortable and lightweight.

This time, their anti-fatigue technology provides work boots with insoles and outsoles that absorb shock and return energy to the feet, preventing foot pain and foot fatigue.

In general, their Timberland Pro work boots weigh no more than 4 pounds, which is quite amazing for work boots that are usually equipped with safety toe caps, slip-resistant soles, and waterproof leather.

2. Wolverine

Regardless of their controversial design, Wolverine work boots are known as very light work boots.

This is mainly due to their amazing features, such as the Wolverine Mutishox midsole, which consists of compression padding scattered under the soles to absorb shock when walking on hard surfaces.

In addition, a combination of materials called “Wolverine Peak AG” makes for an extremely durable and lightweight work boot, ideal for workers looking for safety and flexibility.

3. Thorogood

We always recommend work boots from trusted brands that take comfort into consideration, and Thorogood is no exception.

Thanks to their fully cushioned Poron Comfort sole, which provides excellent arch support and shock absorption, Thorogood is able to offer some of the very lightest work boots on the market.

In addition, most of their work boots are made with a fiberglass shank construction that provides tremendous flexibility and durability without adding a ton of weight.

And they are made in the USA. This is a welcome relief in these days when most work boots are made overseas.

4. Keen Utilities

I have tested hundreds of work boots and I can honestly say that it is hard to find a work boot that is as lightweight and comfortable as what Keen Utility offers.

The company features lightweight work boots, such as the low-top trainer type, that don’t put a lot of stress on the feet and joints.

In addition, its work boots feature a removable metatomical PU direct-fit footbed that cushions the foot and a dual-density compression EVA midsole for long-lasting shock absorption.

Finally, made with the perfect blend of leather and breathable fabrics, it makes a great safety shoe option if you are looking for both protection and ergonomics.

5. Carhartt

If you are looking for a trusted and credible brand that offers lightweight safety work boots, look no further than Carhartt.

The company’s work boots are known for their cushioned PU soles and shock-absorbing midsoles, which reduce foot fatigue by absorbing the impact caused by walking, rather than transferring it to the feet and joints.

The company’s work boots also use lightweight yet reliable leathers that look great and protect feet without adding extra weight or bulk.

Most boots also feature breathable “FastDry” linings that promote air circulation to keep feet dry and reduce odor.

FAQs

Which is the lightest safety tip?

Unfortunately very often (especially in the construction field) safety tips are essential to prevent unnecessary injuries in the workplace.

But which safety tip is the lightest?

Well, you have many options and many things to consider. Let’s go one at a time.

• Steel tip: The most popular choice, but not the lightest. In fact, it is probably the bulkiest and heaviest option among safety tips.
• Composite safety tip: The second most popular choice, composite safety tips are made from a mixture of non-metallic, very lightweight but durable components (carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass, etc.), making them much lighter than steel tips.
• Alloy tips: made from lightweight materials such as iron, copper, zinc, titanium, and chrome, they are fairly lightweight and highly protective, placing them between composite and steel tips. They are metallic and conduct electricity.
• Aluminum tips: one of the lightest tips, but somewhat expensive and difficult to obtain.

Are alloy tips lighter than composite tips?

Yes, alloy tips are lighter than composite tips.

Alloy tips are made from chrome, titanium, silicon, iron, etc., and are lighter than composite tips, which are made from slightly heavier materials such as Kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon.

What is the average weight of a work boot?

Work boots generally weigh 2 to 3 pounds, but steel toe work boots can weigh up to 4.5 pounds and aluminum toe boots are about 1.5 pounds lighter.

Why Do Ironworkers Wear Wedge Boots?

In ironworking, one has to take many risks. Because they work with steel rods all day long, fixing steel frames in building construction and cutting steel rods, they are always at risk of hurting their feet and must wear good shoes to protect their feet from the steel. They need good boots to protect their feet from heavy metals because they are constantly at risk of hurting their feet while working.

The best boots for this purpose are wedge boots because when walking through steel beams during construction work, no boot can beat the traction provided by wedge boots. The wedge shape itself is non-slip, and the outsole is made of a non-slip, oil- and heat-resistant material such as polyurethane, which makes wedge boots ideal for any fitter.

In addition to this, there are numerous reasons why wedge boots are the perfect pair for an ironworker’s feet, and we’ll talk about them all in this article! Wedge boots are ideal for the ironworker.

11 Reasons Ironworkers Wear Wedge Boots

Wedge boots have a number of features that are absolutely essential to the working conditions of an ironworker. I am going to tell you about all the important features of the platform boot so that you understand the importance of wearing these boots in the ironworks.

1.) The Traction Provided By The Wedge Boot Is Unmatched.

The outsole of the wedge boot is made of non-slip material to prevent falls and stumbles on any slippery thin ground. 1.) The outsole is made of slip-resistant, oil- and heat-resistant polyurethane to prevent injuries from falls and stumbles by steelworkers walking on beams at construction sites.

2.) Outsole Is EH Certified.

The outsole of the wedge boots is EH certified to be impervious to electricity. This is very important in ironworks where there is a risk of electrocution from walking on live wires due to machines used to cut steel, or when metal may be connected to live wires and you walk on that metal.

In both cases, there is a risk of electrocution, which can be avoided with EH-standard platform boots. The soles of wedge boots may also absorb electric shock in some cases.

3.) Toe Protection.

Wedge-soled work boots are manufactured with a secure toe cap that provides protection against falling or rolling of heavy objects.

4.) They Provide Ankle Protection.

The material of the wedge boot extends above the ankle, protecting the ankle and preventing ankle sprains and twists.

5.) Boots Protect Against Cuts And Burns.

These cushioned boots are made of very high-quality materials that protect feet from cuts caused by sharp tools and burns caused by sparks from welding.

6.) Fiberglass Soles For Arch Support.

Yes, the fiberglass shank is much lighter in weight than a steel shank, and it supports the arch area, relieving foot fatigue even when standing all day long.

7.) The Outsole’s Larger Surface Area Reduces Pressure Points.

In cushioned boots, the outsole is more exposed to the ground. This means that much of the outsole’s surface area is in direct contact with the ground so that no particular part of the foot is too close to the ground to bear pressure.

Thus, when the entire sole is subjected to body pressure, the pressure is automatically distributed, relieving foot fatigue and pain even when standing all day long.

8.) Cushioned Boots Have Shock-Absorbing Inserts.

In an ironworking shop, feet ache from walking on metal beams all day long. But wedge boots have shock-absorbing inserts that prevent the shock (pressure) from entering the foot and returning to the ground.

9.) Cushioned Boots Have Moisture-Wicking Linings.

Wedge boots use cotton for the lining to wick away moisture from sweaty feet and keep ironworkers’ feet dry all day long.

10.) Boost Wedges Are Durable.

Made from materials such as full-grain leather, polyurethane, fiberglass, and composite uppers, Boost Wedge boots are not only more comfortable but also more durable, which is of great interest to ironworkers who walk in their boots every day in harsh environments.

11.) Less Likely To Leave Stain Marks Than Conventional Boots.

The outsole of wedge boots is flatter than that of conventional boots. As a result, less dirt and debris are left behind when walking. Maintenance is therefore much easier.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wedge boots are the best choice for ironworkers. Ironworkers have to work on high surfaces and tall buildings, so these boots are perfect for them. Wedge boots are comfortable, durable, insulated, waterproof, and well padded. Wedge boots have all the characteristics a good boot should have and are ASTM (American Standard Test Method for Foot Protection) certified. These are some of the best boots for ironworkers because they are versatile and have extra safety features. Now you know why ironworkers prefer wedge boots over other boots. If you enjoyed reading our article, don’t forget to get your wedge boots soon.

When you say ” mountain boots,” you say “Vibram soles”. But what does this exotic abbreviation mean, which abroad insists on pronouncing Vaibrem, not knowing that the origin of the name is all Italian? And what are the secrets of its ten-year success?

Today we pass from jackets to shoes, delving into the maze of a patent that – started from the Alps – has conquered the world.

The Vibram sole, what is it?

Vibram soles are abrasion-resistant rubber outsoles. They were invented by two Italians (Vitale Bramani ) who noticed in 1935 after the death of six miners who had fallen because their shoes were unsuitable for the steep terrain of the Alps. The two Italians then embarked on research on soles more suited to Alpine terrain.

These soles were originally only used for mountain shoes, they gradually developed into hiking shoes, winter shoes, and many other disciplines. Shoes equipped with this sole are easily recognizable thanks to the yellow logo of the brand.

How are they made:

These soles are made of a special rubber compound that provides very good grip and abrasion resistance for longer life.

Today, the majority  of hiking shoes are made with Vibram soles such as the brands:

One type of shoe even consists of a Vibram sole, these are the five fingers shoes.

To properly maintain it:

Do not leave mud on your shoes, use a little hot water, remove encrusted stones, and your shoes will last over time.

Very little maintenance for these soles, it is still necessary if you are a great walker to regularly check the condition of the sole and re-sole if necessary, do not wait for the sole to be totally worn out.

Vibram soles: everything you need to know

How did this Italian jewel manage to resist the assaults of so many international competitors over the years?

Vulcanized rubber

Well, Vibram soles were the first shoe soles made with vulcanized rubber.

Rubber vulcanization is a process invented by the Englishman Charles Goodyear (yes, it is still tiring) in 1855.

It consists of adding sulfur and other additives into the rubber – a mixture called elastomer. This process takes place in the heating phase of the rubber and is the basis not only of the wheels of our car but also of commonly used tools.

Vulcanization allows to obtain an elastic material, resistant to abrasion and above all to traction. Here is created a wear-resistant rubber, which reacts well to both heat and cold. Essential thing on the road … or on the trail.

Today vulcanized rubber soles are quite common… but thanks to Vibram, which is the brand that led the change almost a century ago. And it is questionable whether without Bramani we would still be wearing shoes with felt soles.

But the Vibram secret is not just the mix. The famous tank structure represents the other half of that technological revolution. Today those rectangular plugs separated by “drain” channels are used everywhere.

It is worth noting that Vibram has expanded into several markets since its launch. For example, it entered the casual wear market with lightweight EVA soles.

Vibram soles are still mainly rubber, but their Ecostep and Ecostep EVO collections use 30% recycled rubber. While the Vibram N-Oil sole is made with 90% natural materials.

Characteristics of Vibram soles

There are many benefits to having Vibram soles on your shoes. The number one advantage is durability: Vibram soles are certainly the strongest shoe soles on the planet.

They can last for years and even decades if you don’t wear shoes that often. They don’t actually degrade over time: the only way to wear outsoles is to wear them on rough terrain.

Furthermore, Vibram soles usually have very deep lugs, about 5 mm. And that makes the shoe last longer, without sacrificing too much performance.

Sure, after a couple of years you may not have the same level of grip and traction you did in the beginning, but you can always recycle them for less strenuous walks or as work shoes.

Plus, it’s really easy to replace Vibram soles . The brand works with shoemakers all over the world and you can find a professional who soles your boots when the original Vibram sole wears too much.

Another huge advantage of having boots with Vibram soles is an extraordinary performance. They never disappoint – there’s a reason soles are expensive: consistent, out-of-the-ordinary performance.

Longevity

As already mentioned, Vibram soles are incredibly resistant and this has been one of their main strengths, since the 1930s.

At one point, this company also produced soles for the labor market, therefore real devices for individual safety. Which speaks volumes about their reliability.

However, it is not possible to indicate the exact duration of a shoe with a Vibram sole. It mainly depends on how much and how you wear it. If these are your favorite hiking boots you wear every weekend, you can think about a change after two / three years.

If, on the other hand, we’re talking about shoes that spend most of their life in your closet and you only wear them a few times a year, then you’re good to go for the next decade, at the very least.

You don’t want to change shoes, because you feel very comfortable there? When you notice that your soles have worn out so much that you no longer feel stable, it’s time to get them resolved.

Vibram Arctic Grip

Vibram Arctic Grip is a very popular sole in the world of hiking and winter mountaineering boots. This is the most advanced traction system ever at Vibram.

The outsoles are made entirely of rubber with no metal inserts, a completely new approach to designing outsoles that have great traction on ice.

Arctic Grip outsoles are designed specifically for great performance on the ice, yet still feature basic Vibram quality and durability.

The main quality of the design of these soles is the wide lugs: with a wider contact surface, you have more stability and grip on slippery ground.

The Arctic Grip All-Terrain is also on the market: what is it? It is practically an updated version of the original Arctic Grip sole. The All-Terrain version is combined with Vibram’s latest model and compound, the XS Trek Evo. This allows the soles to perform better on dry terrain while maintaining exceptional performance on wet and icy surfaces.

Instead of wearing your Vibram boots only in the middle of winter, you can now also wear them in late autumn and early spring. With consistent shoe performance regardless of weather and terrain.

Vibram soles and environmental sustainability

The Italian company is at the forefront of sustainable practices.

Vibram Eco soles are an excellent example of this: by recycling their by-products and post-consumer materials, they are able to minimize the overall waste derived from production.

Additionally, Vibram has a code of ethics and a zero-tolerance policy for all suppliers who violate the code in any way.

They also require their business partners to adopt policies that minimize workplace injuries, promote safe and clean work environments, and ensure that all workers are adequately compensated.

Furthermore, the company is committed to minimizing its environmental impact. They are slowly converting their factories to renewable energy: the main Italian factory is already using 100% renewable energy.

The company is also implementing various practices that will ultimately lead to zero waste, including reducing consumer office waste and eliminating hazardous waste.

Vibram: a mountaineering brand lent to fashion

In recent years, the world of men’s clothing has been dominated by two overlapping trends: voluminous and oversized footwear and a mix of casual and work clothes.

This new wave, therefore, seeks to combine style and utility, cool and practical. Inevitably, Vibram was brought up.

In fact, no brand seems to benefit more from this new trend in technical equipment. Vibram has now become one of the favorite brands of fashionistas and stylists, with collaborations with rapper/designer Kanye West, Nike, Supreme …

Low trekking boots in satin, low-cut work shoes with straps and boots carefully worn by the elements … all stuff that until now was only seen in the factory and on the trails, and which now finds its space also on the catwalk or on the street in New York.

Vibram focused on mountain sports in its early years and only started experimenting with outsoles for extra-mountain shoes in the 1950s.

Today the company produces an average of 35 million soles per year, collaborating with more than 1,000 different brands and shipping its product to more than 120 countries. Mountains, of course, but not only.

Their real breakthrough in fashion, however, came in the early 2000s, thanks to the help of another not exactly unknown Italian brand: Prada.

Vibram has in fact collaborated with Prada to launch its innovative Prada Sport collection, which featured a range of fashion shoes, but with Vibram soles also suitable for the Dolomite peaks.

From that collection, the company has further entered the world of fashion. Brands like Maison Margiela, Mark McNairy, Giorgio Armani, and Thom Browne have all turned to Vibram, for high-tech design and unmatched quality.

An independent label known to fashion lovers is Our Legacy, a Swedish brand famous for its strange reinterpretations of Scandinavian minimalism.

Since 2014 Our Legacy has been selling versions of its Mono Runners with Vibram soles: a type of design shoe (questionable!) That you see on the feet of artists, creative directors, and lovers of nightlife.

Virgil Abloh, the famous designer and recently deceased entrepreneur, with his Off-White label has launched the fashion of bulky sneakers in premium leather, suede, and thick Vibram sole.

Vibram’s growing success is not just about the aesthetics of a sole or its durability: it is a sign of the growing interest of the sneaker industry for authenticity, practicality, and reliability.

Even an iconic luxury house like Maison Margiela, which has access to any material or method in the world, has used Vibram soles for its new fall-winter sneakers lines.

Ultimately, Vibram may not be the brightest star in these high-end products. It is simply the ultra-rugged platform upon which designers build increasingly high-performance sneakers.

But the small, modest yellow octagonal logo of the Italian house lets a person know that what they are buying is the result of almost a century’s experience of roads, mountains, and workshops.

FAQs

Why should I buy boots with Vibram soles?

Vibram soles have a reputation for being durable and extremely grippy. You can also replace the Vibram soles, which means you’ll get more use out of your work boots.

How long can Vibram soles last?

This will depend on the purpose of your shoes and how often you use them. They may not last as long if you live in harsh environments.

They can last up to five years if worn in an office or on the street. They will last about three years on average.

Are Vibram soles non-slip?

Vibram soles have been specially designed to increase and improve traction.

What does Vibram mean?

Vibram is a brand name that combines the beginnings of the first and last name of the unique inventor Vi tale bra mani. It is pronounced vee-Brum in Italian.

Conclusion

Vibram soles for work boots offer comfort and performance. The unique brand is internationally recognized and sold. He helped establish a high standard of work boot manufacturing through the use of premium rubber compounds.

Vibram soles are synonymous with durability, quality, traction and, above all, waterproofness. Vibram soles for work boots can withstand any task, in any environment.