Vibram Japan and Hender Scheme Unveil Their Second Collaborative Sole

Vibram Japan and Hender Scheme Unveil Their Second Collaborative Sole – U.F.O

Introduction

Vibram Japan, the Japanese arm of the Italian sole manufacturer renowned for its high-performance rubber soles, has announced the launch of its second collaborative project with Hender Scheme. The U.F.O (Unidentified Footwear Object) sole introduces a groundbreaking footwear system that merges innovative design with advanced technology, set to hit stores on July 18, 2026.

The U.F.O Sole Unit

The U.F.O sole unit is a unique construction featuring both an outsole and footbed, eliminating the need for traditional lasting processes. This allows for an innovative footwear design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The first models to debut these soles are the "U.F.O / mar" and "U.F.O / ven" sandals, which will be available for purchase at Hender Scheme's stores and official online shop.

Collaboration Background

Hender Scheme has successfully integrated Vibram soles into many of its products over the years. This partnership began in 2021 when Hender Scheme expressed a desire to use Vibram's expertise to craft an original sole that better reflects its brand identity. This led to collaborative research and development focusing on creating unique footwear solutions. Following the success of the first release, the KAMABOKO VIBRAM SOLE, the U.F.O is the second outcome of their shared vision to innovate.

Design Concept

The design of the U.F.O not only embraces Hender Scheme's vision of footwear that doesn’t require lasting but combines it with Vibram’s expertise in durability, comfort, and user experience. Through iterative design and rigorous testing, the U.F.O sole has been meticulously crafted to ensure it meets high performance standards while maintaining a high degree of manufacturability.

Unique Construction

Traditional shoe-making involves shaping an upper around a wooden last through a lasting process. However, the U.F.O sole unit utilizes a structure where the outsole's perimeter extends outward, allowing for direct stitching to the upper. The outsole is secured to the EVA footbed using a snap-fit system, eliminating the need for adhesives and streamlining assembly while facilitating potential future repairs or part replacements.

Innovative Rubber Design

In the process of developing the U.F.O sole, Vibram focused on optimizing the rubber material to balance durability and grip. It was critical to select a material that was neither too rigid, which could complicate stitching, nor too soft, which could compromise stability. The resulting U.F.O sole unit blends an advanced rubber compound with a cushioned midsole to provide a comfortable walking experience, achieving a harmonious balance between durability, ease of wear, and manufacturability.

Original Tread Patterns

The outsole of the U.F.O features a unique tread design inspired by Vibram's iconic Carrarmato sole, incorporating spirals and kamaboko-shaped lugs to enhance grip and water drainage. This design not only embraces humorous aesthetics but supports a traditional walking style known as "nanba-aruki" in Japanese culture, further bridging modern design with historical context.

From Concept to Creation

The development of the U.F.O falls under Vibram's "Connection Lab," a co-creation program that seeks to explore new footwear possibilities with partner brands. Rather than merely providing existing soles, Vibram collaborates closely with partners, sharing insights from design to production processes to craft new soles that embody shared cultural and technical backgrounds.