A. Since the mid-1930s, Vibram has been making soles for mountaineering hiking boots. Prior to Vibram coming onto the scene, mountaineering boots were made with shabby rubber materials that were prone to slipping off of the sole of the shoe, causing injury to the people who were wearing the boots. This opened an opportunity where Vibram was able to fill a niche. Today, the Vibram sole brand offers soles that are not only superior when it comes to durability, but also superior in providing mountaineers and trail runners with shoes that are safer, resistant to abrasions, and more functional. It’s important to understand that even though Vibram began only as a company that was dedicated to providing ruggedized soles for boots, today they have adapted and provide soles for shoes that exist within a variety of different niches. These categories include sporting shoes, mountain shoes, and even fashion shoes. For example, Prada is one great example of how Vibram been able to expand its client reach over the years. The Vibram brand’s commitment to excellence and safety is what has allowed them to diversify and flourish within the athletic and non-athletic community alike.