POSITIVE RELIEF

WHY POSITIVE RELIEF?

The technologies used for manufacturing of grips are two depending on the type of surface the grip assumes. Technologies for positive and for negative relief. We use only technology for making positive relief. This is indeed more work consuming and more difficult technology than those involved in the making of negative relief, but the positive relief has one particular advantage which may be observed in the chart (Fig. 1). The surface structure of the holds with negative relief could be seen as a smooth surface with many different size ripples. The ridged surface formed where the ripples intersect with the surface generates friction. When the grip is still new the edges are sharp and the friction is very good. With time, however, these edges absorb moisture, get filled with magnesium and become dirty that makes the surface of the holds greasy and slippery. In addition the edges get worn out which is another factor decreasing the friction. The hold must be then dismounted and carefully washed with hot water, brush and detergent. A simple scrub with a brush would not be enough that is a tedious and boring job. It becomes even more unpleasant if the holds are used daily and need to be cleaned very often. We use a /HRT positive relief/ technology in which the friction is created not by the ripples in the surface, but by tiny bumps above the surface. In that case the surface cannot be smoothed in contrast to the negative relief holds. Besides, the cleaning is done easily with a brush and without the need to wash with water. This is very important for competitions where the friction has to be constant from the first to the last competitor and when there is no time for washing.