Effect of Oblique Outsole Tread Orientation on Slip Performance

This chapter provides information on the effect of the change in tread pattern of the footwear outsoles on the slip risk probability. The various parameters such as tread contact region and shore A hardness of the footwear and its effect on the slip probability especially in contaminated flooring scenarios were particularly highlighted. The recent study involving the oblique tread patterns that are commonly found in the formal footwear was discussed. The process of replicating and fabrication of the oblique pattern-based polyurethane outsoles was specifically elaborated. The process of slip testing experiments utilizing the biofidelic slip tester was also highlighted. The variation in the frictional performance of the developed oblique footwear tread patterns when slip testing was performed in dry, wet and floor cleaner (Lizol) condition was specifically focused upon in this chapter. The effect of tread width and tread gap on the tractional performance of the square tread outsoles in dry, wet and floor cleaner (Lizol applied) slip testing conditions was highlighted. The parameters mainly tread width and tread gap were ultimately found to be the main footwear tread design factors in manufacturing slip-resistant footwear.