In work environments where safety is a top priority, slip resistance is more than just a performance feature—it’s a regulatory requirement and a matter of daily protection. But what exactly makes a shoe slip-resistant? And how can footwear designers and developers ensure compliance while delivering real-world performance?
Let’s take a closer look at what defines slip resistance, how it's tested, and how you can optimize your outsoles to meet today’s standards.
Why Slip Resistance Matters
Slip-related injuries are among the most common workplace accidents globally. Whether it’s oil on a workshop floor or wet tiles in a commercial kitchen, reducing the risk of slipping can dramatically improve safety outcomes.
Slip-resistant soles are designed to maintain grip on various surfaces by channeling away fluids, maximizing surface contact, and using rubber compounds that optimize traction.
Testing Methods for Slip Resistance
Slip resistance is typically tested according to international standards, such as ISO 20345 and ISO 20344. These involve measuring the friction between the shoe sole and testing surfaces—usually ceramic tiles or steel plates—under both dry and lubricated conditions.
Some key test parameters include:
- Forward heel slip
- Forward flat slip
- Backward slip
- Slip on inclined surfaces
The most commonly referenced slip resistance ratings include:
- SRA – Tested on ceramic tile with water and detergent.
- SRB – Tested on steel with glycerol.
- SRC – Tested on both surfaces (SRA + SRB).
Designing for SRC means your outsole must perform well across a wide range of real-world situations.
Key Design Factors
If you're developing a slip-resistant outsole, consider these important factors:
- Rubber Compound: A softer rubber compound generally improves grip, but must be balanced with abrasion resistance.
- Tread Design: Outsoles with deep grooves and multidirectional patterns offer better grip and fluid dispersion.
- Surface Area: Larger ground contact zones improve grip on flat surfaces, while cleats help on uneven terrain.
Innovation in Grip Technology
At Alcmy, we incorporate advanced rubber formulas and trail-inspired tread designs into many of our outsoles. Some of our products even feature zoned grip areas and wrap-up rubber for enhanced lateral traction. Whether you're designing for slippery workshop floors or icy outdoor environments, we help you engineer outsoles that deliver confidence with every step.
Final Thoughts
Understanding slip resistance is essential not only for meeting safety standards but for building better, more dependable products. If you're designing a new shoe or refining an existing model, our team at Alcmy is ready to support you with materials, construction expertise, and mold-ready solutions.
