Vibram awarded for its ‘barefoot’ bridging product

21/11/2014
Sole maker Vibram has been recognised by judges at Grandesign Etico, a Milan-based ethical design awards ceremony, for its Bikila EVO.

The judges assessed entrants on social commitment, environmental efforts, materials and working conditions, among others, with the parameters regarding the design including functionality and ergonomics, quality of fit, technological innovation and ease of use.

The Bikila EVO is part of the Five Fingers family, redesigned with more cushion to offer more comfort on a medium distance road run. The sole is still thin, but has more underfoot to ensure confidence “while making the switch” to barefoot, says the company.

Barefoot running shoes hit a peak in 2011 but trend has since died down, with conflicting reports questioning its benefits.

Headquartered in Albizzate, Varese, Vibram manufactures more than 40 million soles annually worldwide.