Japan's First: Exhibition of the High-Performance Rubber Sole "Tractuin Lug" Begins

VIBRAM | Vibram

Ensuring High Traction with a 3D Structure Utilizing Patented Technology

Merrell's "MOAB SPEED GORE-TEX" featuring lugs from Italian rubber sole manufacturer VIBRAM has been released in Japan. This product fuses traction suitable for various scenes with a design sensibility.

Text by WASEDA Kosaku (OPENERS)

Featured on Merrell Shoes. First Release in Japan.

VIBRAM is a global manufacturer based in Italy, specializing in the production and sale of high-performance rubber soles. Since its founding in 1937, its exceptional functionality has earned the trust of countless professionals.

The latest rubber sole developed by Vibram, "Traction Lug," was unveiled at ISPO Munich 2020, Europe's largest sports equipment trade show.

Compared to previous products, it firmly grips the ground, increasing forward propulsion by 25 percent and delivering superior performance in all environments.

Japan's First: Exhibition of the High-Performance Rubber Sole "Tractuin Lug" Begins | VIBRAM

Its most distinctive feature is the three-dimensional structure, with finer lugs arranged on the sides of the main lugs. This increases the surface area by up to 50 percent compared to conventional lugs, ensuring traction on all types of surfaces.

Furthermore, Vibram's proprietary rubber compounds allow for precise control over "density, hardness, abrasion resistance, and tensile strength," enabling the creation of soles suited for diverse environments. The combination of optimal compounds and the 3D structure results in exceptional slip resistance.

Merrell Boot Company has now released the "MOAB SPEED GORE-TEX," a versatile trail shoe featuring the "Traction Lug." This marks the first time shoes equipped with these lugs are available in Japan.

Establishing itself as a "diverse trail" shoe—a hybrid of hiking and trail running footwear—this model embodies the fusion of performance, comfort, and a stylish silhouette.

Concurrently, Vibram Japan has launched its first brand booklet, "Yellow Map," which will be published twice a year.

Each issue will feature Vibram's history and culture as an Italian brand, the technology and dedication behind its world-renowned outsoles, and interviews with mountaineers, photographers, artists, designers, and craftspeople deeply connected to the brand.

It will be published in both Japanese and English, with plans for global distribution.

MOAB SPEED GORE-TEX

Men's