At ALCMY, we believe technical products should speak for themselves. That’s why we created the ALCMY System — a smart, symbolic way to categorize, rate, and communicate the performance of every sole and material we produce. Inspired by the periodic table, this system uses iconography and performance ratings to clearly highlight what each product is capable of.
Why We Built It
Most footwear brands use made-up names to differentiate foams and outsoles. These labels often lack any technical grounding, leaving designers and customers guessing. The ALCMY System flips this approach. Rather than creating sub-brands, we focus on measurable performance — giving brands the tools to compare, choose, and communicate better.
Our system focuses on the three most important properties of midsoles and outsoles, each rated on a scale of 2 (Basic), 4 (Medium), or 6 (Maximum). This creates a modular, flexible way to represent and compare different constructions.
Midsole Performance Metrics
Every ALCMY midsole is graded based on:
1. Cushioning (Cu)
Indicates how well the foam absorbs impact. A high score means better shock absorption and comfort.
- Basic (2): For ground feel and minimal cushioning
- Medium (4): Balanced comfort for everyday wear
- Maximum (6): Soft, responsive foams for running and long shifts
2. Rebound (Re)
Measures how much energy is returned with each step. The higher the rating, the more “bounce” you feel.
- Basic (2): Minimal energy return, more dampened feel
- Medium (4): Balanced ride for most use cases
- Maximum (6): High-performance energy return (e.g. ETPU)
3. Durability (Du)
Reflects abrasion resistance, fatigue life, and long-term performance.
- Basic (2): Casual use or lifestyle shoes
- Medium (4): Regular wear with moderate performance retention
- Maximum (6): Built to last under pressure — for safety, trail, or performance use
Examples from our collection:
- Trampoline 2: Cu 4 / Re 6 / Du 6
- Q-Blue: Cu 4 / Re 4 / Du 6
- Diamond: Cu 6 / Re 4 / Du 4
Outsole Performance Metrics
Each outsole is scored using:
1. Grip (Gr)
Assesses surface traction — critical for safety and trail use.
- Basic (2): Light-duty or indoor wear
- Medium (4): General-purpose grip
- Maximum (6): Trail, safety, and extreme terrain
2. Abrasion (Ab)
Tests how long the outsole lasts under wear.
- Basic (2): For low-impact environments
- Medium (4): Standard outdoor and work conditions
- Maximum (6): Long-wear, rugged applications
3. Flexibility (Fx)
Measures how easily the sole bends. Some applications need support; others need freedom.
- Basic (2): Rigid stability
- Medium (4): Balanced movement
- Maximum (6): Dynamic flexibility for active use
Examples from our collection:
More Than Just Icons — A True Technical System
The ALCMY System goes beyond visual identity — it’s backed by real material science and data. Behind every score are measurable test values:
- Energy Return: ETPU midsoles can return 70%+ energy (Re 6), while EVA averages around 50–60% (Re 4)
- Compression Set: Premium compounds retain cushioning after 800km of use
- Abrasion Resistance: Outsoles are tested for wear loss over thousands of cycles
- Flex Endurance: Flex testing simulates years of bending and performance
- Elongation at Break: Durable foams stretch 400%+ before tearing
All these properties feed into the scores we assign. The result? A transparent, modular language for footwear that anyone — from designers to end users — can understand.
Designed for Modularity and Clarity
Just like the periodic table, the ALCMY system allows brands to mix, match, and label products clearly. Want to design a running shoe with max energy return but moderate durability? Look for a Cu 6 / Re 6 / Du 4 sole. Need a safety outsole with grip and wear resistance? Go for Ab 6 / Gr 6 / Fx 2.
It’s a better way to specify. A smarter way to communicate. And a more responsible way to innovate.
ALCMY isn't just a name — it’s a system built to empower better choices.
Want to learn more about the different technical properties of outsole? We cover this more in depth in this blog post.
