FAQ
What is SKYDEX? SKYDEX is a patented cushioning and protective material used to enhance the performance of a wide variety of products. SKYDEX materials can be adapted and "tuned" for superior performing footwear, helmets, seating, protective gear, playground surfacing and many other applications.

How does SKYDEX work? Like two halves of a ball being squeezed together, highly durable polymers molded into this spring-like twin-hemisphere design can repeatedly absorb large amounts of shock in small amounts of space. By varying the geometry of the twin-hemisphere design, changing materials or changing the profile, SKYDEX technology can be precisely tuned for a nearly infinite number of different applications.

What applications has SKYDEX been developed for? SKYDEX materials are ideally suited for performance cushioning applications such as footwear, helmets, seating (bike, wheelchair, snowmobile), surfacing (playground, wall pads, anti-fatigue mats), protective gear (shin guards, pads, backpack straps), and even automotive applications. SKYDEX has been or is currently being developed for all of these applications. Additionally, SKYDEX has begun development of products designed to the impact of vibration and sound.

How can I use SKYDEX materials for my product? SKYDEX has a variety of stock materials , but most SKYDEX is customized for specific applications, or, we would be happy to discuss a unique solution for your product. Contact a SKYDEX representative to discuss the specifics of your application or idea.

What products currently use SKYDEX? SKYDEX materials are used by some of the most innovative brands in a wide variety of high performance products, including Nike Tuned Air running shoes, Schutt Sports DNA football helmet used in the NFL and by top college teams, Burton ION snowboard boots and Ariat equestrian boots. Additionally, several branches of the United States military are using applications ranging from helmet liners to boat decking. SKYDEX is constantly developing new and innovative uses of our materials. Please visit our Portfolios page for a complete list of projects.

How much do SKYDEX materials cost? SKYDEX materials have an excellent price-value relationship and add real value to your product. To learn more about price and our customer product lines, please contact a SKYDEX representative to receive a price quote.

How is SKYDEX manufactured? SKYDEX materials can be adapted to a number of manufacturing processes, the most important of which is twin-sheet thermoforming. In this process, two sheets of plastic are drawn together in a vacuum over aluminum tooling. Twin-sheet thermoforming is highly efficient and economical, in fact, it is one of our strongest and most attractive assets as a material. Additionally we can use blow molding and other alternative manufacturing techniques.

How long does it take the SKYDEX team to develop a final product? The process of creating a product that utilizes SKYDEX technology is extremely tailored and custom. In general, it takes us about a month to generate a prototype of a product. Combined with extensive industry research and interaction between our engineers and our client company, a final product base can be developed shortly after the prototype is completed.

What is SKYDEX's relationship with Nike? Shortly after development in 1999, SKYDEX entered into a non-exclusive agreement with Nike to use its patented product.

What is TPU? Thermal Plastic Polyurethane? SKYDEX uses this particular type of resin in many of its products.

Does SKYDEX sell plastic? While many of our products contain plastic, currently SKYDEX does not sell plastic pieces in part or whole.