Vibram Five Fingers: Fit for the feet

MANILA, Philippines - Engaging in outdoor activities has become more exciting with Vibram FiveFingers footwear. Offering exceptional grip and performance, today’s favorite outdoor shoes provide the wearer more flexibility, and yes more fun, in move around different terrains of one’s preferred nature adventure.

Vibram has come out with two new exceptional models that offer the FiveFinger performance and power of the popular footwear. Like the rest of their precision models, the two new designs, Signa and Treksport Sandal, were also conceptualized to offer utmost protection to the wearer, and at the same time enhance performance to any sport one is engaged in.

Three of the country’s top nature enthusiasts gave their own take on the new designs  a testament to Vibram’s amazing performance!

 When it comes to the fine adventure that is surfing, using footwear for the sport may seem like an outlandish idea. Getting stoked don’t usually require wearing anything – except maybe a hot, wet suit and some guts to catch the biggest waves.

But not for surfing star Paolo Soler. The owner and founder of the Philippine Surfing Academy shared how his search for good booties to navigate sharp coral reef breaks led him to the discovery of Vibram footwear — and the better enjoyment of the sport that he has loved for 15 years.

“I discovered Vibram when I was looking for booties that I could use while surfing sharp coral reef breaks. Then came the Vibram Signa, which is ultra light and ultra flexible. These are the best surf booties I’ve ever used. I can feel my board when riding and it allows me to feel more confident. I also use them when teaching my students.”

The segmented Coral outsole made of Vibram performance rubber ensures ultimate grip and protection in the water and allows natural foot flexion when swimming. Small perforations in the sole encourage water drainage, minimize weight, and speed up drying time. The upper is built with a combination of synthetic and abrasion resistant fabrics to protect the foot. The Signa is finished off with a structural hook-and-loop strap for a secured fit.

According to Paolo, who started the Philippine Surfing Academy and Soul Adventure Surf Tours in 2007, the Vibram Signa definitely complements his lifestyle as a professional surfer, which he describes as pretty much laidback and very connected with nature. “Being one with the ocean gives you a strong sense of spirituality and positive energy. This basically changes your whole outlook on life, making you realize that simple things can make you happy. While many who don’t surf find it superficial, those who do and know the feeling live for it. As a surf coach and surf school owner, I take pride in sharing the stoke with my students and giving them this gift. And with Vibram, I get to do that without hitch.”

Father and son Buboy and Nico Francisco are now enjoying the new Vibram Treksport Sandal.

“As mountaineers, you have to be serious about what you do. Aside from being in a certain level of fitness, you have to be prepared with what’s ahead. Having the necessary gear such as an able footwear like Vibram FiveFingers will help you do just that,” said Buboy, who is one of the founders of the now famous UP Mountaineer’s Club.

As for his 23-year old son, Nico, who is the outgoing president of the same mountaineering group, the right shoe also assure safety even on the simplest trails.  “It feels different compared to wearing hiking boots. It’s like you’re wearing the ground, there’s cushioning, and that makes it comfortable during easy treks,” he said.

“The Vibram Treksport Sandal is snug and very light. It causes less muscle fatigue, and you can really feel that the grip on whatever surface is secure,” Buboy added.

The Vibram Treksport Sandals are breathable but protective. It is the perfect shoe for every weekend excursion. The lightly cleated four mm trek outsole made with Vibram TC-1 Dura rubber delivers increased traction on a variety of surfaces.

The padded tongue and synthetic upper with “windows” make this the most breathable and versatile FiveFingers to date. Other features include a speed lace system, reflective surfaces and an EVA midsole for plating protection. From light hiking to hitting the links, the TrekSport Sandal is bound to make you feel more connected to any activity, making it the perfect multi-use FiveFingers model.

Buboy, for one, along with other pioneers of the mountaineering group, discovered many of today’s famous trails such as the trek going up Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Romblon, and Mt. Romelo in Famy, Laguna which brings trekkers to the beautiful Buruwisan Falls — a training ground for those who wish to become a serious mountaineer.

So how does one become a mountaineer? One needs ample preparation, said Buboy. “They have to be fit to walk for hours and tough it out outdoors. Invest on good gear but try not to overpack.”

A good pair of shoes is also important, added Nico. “As footwear is personal preference, choose one which can truly work for you like Vibram Treksport Sandal.  But most of all, remember to be a responsible mountaineer and make the experience worthwhile.”

Vibram Treksport Sandal and Signa are available at the second level of SM Mall of Asia, third level of TriNoma, and fourth level of Megamall Atrium Bldg. B.  Vibram is also available at Planet Sports (Rockwell, Glorietta, Newport and Greenhills), TAF (Galleria, Ermita, ATC, Parkade & Robinsons Magnolia), Sports Central, ROX and Chimes Davao. 

For more information, visit FB: BarefootWear Inc. or www.vibramfivefingers.ph.