New mountain biking soles at Vibram
Italy-based sole specialist Vibram has developed new high-tech products for mountain bikers.
The MTBike is a sole developed specifically for freeriding. Made with the company’s XSTrek compound for excellent grip on all surfaces, the tread design has deep grooves for high performance. It has lateral lugs for better traction and stability, a streamlined profile, flexion lines for better comfort and to assist the natural roll of the foot, a rubber toe bumper for better protection and is compatible with SPD automatic bindings.
Developed exclusively for Shimano, the new Freeride sole uses Vibram’s IdroGrip compound for better grip on the pedals. The front section includes deep grooves for non-slip contact with the pedals while the large, flat surfaces at the heel improve traction and reduce friction.
The Freeride sole has been used in the Shimano AM40 Enduro, a shoe for downhill and enduro mountain biking. The lacing has been reinforced and there is protection on the sides and for the ankles. The modular midsole ensures solid contact with the Freeride sole.
The X-Cross is a two-colour trekking sole that is also suitable for mountain biking. It helps to clear out mud and provides good grip during treks or when pushing the bike. The sole is made using the firm’s MultiTrek compound for high traction on the many different types of terrain encountered during long trips.
Finally, the Northwave Mission is a freeride shoe. The upper materials are designed to meet the needs of "off-track" riders facing mud and rocks on difficult, steep terrain. The structure of the shoe offers a high level of protection and a snug fit without sacrificing comfort.