• Korean Journal of Applied Biomechanics
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• v.12 no.2
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• pp.361-380
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• 2002

The purposes of this study were to a analysis of friction relation between tennis outsole and tennis playing surfaces. Tennis footwear is an important component of tennis game equipment. It can support or damage players performance and comfort. Most importantly athletic shoes protect the foot preventing abrasions and injuries. Footwear stability in court sports like tennis is incredibly important since it is estimated that as many as 45% of all lower extremity injuries occur in the foot and ankle. The friction force is the force exerted by a surface as an object moves across it or makes an effort to move across it. The friction force opposes the motion of the object. Friction results when two surfaces are pressed together closely, causing attractive intermolecular forces between the molecules of the two different surfaces. The outsole provides traction and reduces wear on the midsole. Today's outsoles address sport specific movements (running versus pivoting) and playing surface types. Different areas of the outsole are designed for the distinct frictional needs of specific movements. Traction created by the friction between the outsole and the surface allows the shoe to grip the surface. As surfaces, conditions and player motion change, traction may need to vary. An athletic shoe needs to grip well when running but not when pivoting. Laboratory tests have demonstrated force reductions compared to impact on concrete. There is a correlation between pain, injury and surface hardness. These are a variety of traction patterns on the soles of athletic shoes. Traction like any other shoe characteristic must be commensurate and balanced with the sport. The equal and opposite force does not necessarily travel back up your leg. The surface itself absorbs a portion of the force converting it to other forms of energy. Subsequently, tennis court surfaces are rated not only for pace but also for the percentage of force reduction.