A guide wire having a damped force vibration mechanism which isolates vibrations or shockwaves which otherwise would be transmitted along the length of the guide wire to its distal end. The damped force vibration mechanism helps absorb some of the energy created during the exchange of a delivery catheter or an interventional device on the guide wire or any shock or force generated from an external source. The damped force vibration mechanism absorbs vibrations or shock which would otherwise act on medical devices attached near the distal end of a guide wire. The damped force vibration mechanism may consist of a reduced segment on the guide wire which can be made from a material such as superelastic or plastically deformable, biocompatible materials. The damped force vibration mechanism can have a relatively straight configuration or can have a wave-shaped form, or other shape which helps absorb vibratory motion.