Vibram's Biomechanics Advisory Board to Study Barefoot Training

Vibram®, the designer of the unique glove-styled shoe, FiveFingers, announced the foundation of the Vibram Biomechanics Advisory Board to offer research on and analysis of foot and gait biomechanics in sports, the Board will also be an invaluable asset for new product planning for the FiveFingers line. FiveFingers is a glove-styled shoe offering all the health benefits of going barefoot with the protection of a Vibram sole. Originally developed as a “barefoot alternative” for sailing, climbing, and light trekking, FiveFingers footwear is quickly gaining popularity among runners; yoga and Pilates practitioners; martial artists; fitness enthusiasts; surfers; kayakers; hikers and travelers.

“We’ve seen and heard countless examples of health and performance improvements associated with FiveFingers,” explained Tony Post, president, Vibram USA. “With such an overwhelming response, we determined a scientific advisory board was an important next step to further promote the value of barefoot training.”

The Vibram Biomechanics Advisory Board consists of two experts in the field of foot, ankle and gait biomechanics in sports. Dr. Ivo Waerlop is a board certified Chiropractic Neurologist, Chiropractic Rehabilitation Physician and certified Chiropractic Sports Physician. His patients include Olympic level, professional and paraprofessional running, skiing and cycling athletes. He lectures nationally on foot-ankle and gait biomechanics in sports.

Diplomate of American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists, Dr. Shawn Allen has an established chiropractic, conservative orthopedics and sports medicine-based practice. Dr. Allen also works with a wide variety of athletes including Olympic, professional and para-professional runners, gymnasts, dancers, baseball and tri-athletes. He is an instructor in advanced orthopedics and functional biomechanics at National University in Lombard, Illinois.

The board members’ contributions will include published research on the benefits and challenges of barefoot training as well as major foot and gait issues associated with athletic endeavors. In addition, they will provide valuable personal and patient feedback on new product development and serve as scientific and technical expert spokesmen for consumers and the editorial community. For more information on the Board and to view their most recent literary contributions visit vibramfivefingers.com

Vibram® is recognized worldwide as the leader in high performance soles for outdoor, recreational, work and fashion footwear and is relied on by the world’ s greatest climbers and athletes. Vibram® soles have set the standard since Vitale Bramani created mountaineering’s first rubber lugged sole in the late 1930’s. Vibram® soles have gone on to conquer Mt. Everest, K2 and a host of the world’s tallest peaks. Today, the company works with premium brands including Danner, La Sportiva, Lowa, Merrell, Red Wing, Scarpa, The North Face, Timberland, Vasque, Wolverine and many more. For further information, visit www.vibram.com or www.vibramfivefingers.com.
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