A guide to Icebug’s traction technologies

We currently work with four different traction technologies: BUGrip®, RB9X™, Nordic Traction™, and OLX. Together, they cover all seasons and needs – from ice and snow to wet rocks and muddy trails. In this guide, we describe our traction technologies and their specific areas of use, so you can find the perfect grip for you.

BUGrip® – dynamic carbide steel studs

BUGrip® is the name of our traction technology for the most slippery conditions. A BUGrip outsole is made of a specially developed rubber compound with 13–19 integrated carbide steel studs. What makes BUGrip unique is that the studs work independently. They’re not fixed, but move dynamically against the surface.

When your foot hits the ground, the studs are pressed into the rubber – varying in depth depending on how hard you step and what surface you’re on. This allows the grip to adapt automatically, whether you’re walking on dry asphalt, wet wood, or pure ice. The result? The best possible traction without sacrificing comfort.

We design our BUGrip-outsoles with a surplus of studs – ensuring full function even if a few fall out over time. After use in wet conditions, the studs may develop light surface rust, but that doesn’t affect grip. The carbide steel tips do the real work – and they don’t rust.

Note: We cannot guarantee that slipping will never occur. BUGrip® shoes are not recommended for indoor use or on delicate surfaces. If you plan to wear them indoors, we recommend FloorSavers – click here to learn more.

Nordic Traction™ – designed for Nordic winter

Nordic Traction is an excellent choice for winter walks, snowy trails, and everyday activities in areas where icy streets are uncommon. For pure ice, however, we recommend shoes with BUGrip steel studs for maximum safety.

The traction technology is based on a durable rubber compound combining 49% FSC-certified natural rubber for superior grip with synthetic rubber for high abrasion resistance. The result is a tough outsole that maintains both grip and comfort even in very cold temperatures.

The tread pattern is inspired by winter tires, featuring longer lugs with fine siping that grip packed snow and loose surfaces alike – while the spacing between the lugs prevents snow from getting stuck.

RB9X™ – durable traction rubber for wet and dry surfaces

Icebug first became known for its market-leading studded traction, allowing people to walk and run safely on ice. When we expanded beyond winter, we created RB9X™ – a rubber compound that provides outstanding grip without studs. Independent testing shows that RB9X stands in a class of its own when it comes to traction on both wet and dry surfaces.

This technology is made for those who run on slippery rocks, wet trails, piers, or who simply want reliable grip on rainy sidewalks. RB9X is quick-drying, durable, and trustworthy. Its abrasion resistance matches that of road running shoes, giving you long-lasting traction without compromising comfort or ground feel.

OLX – fixed studs for demanding terrain

OLX is our most extreme traction technology – built for terrain where you need maximum grip at all times. The studs are fixed in the sole, providing constant and stable traction no matter what’s underfoot. OLX is used in our off-trail running and orienteering shoes, where traction must be absolutely reliable.

We use our business to do good

At Icebug, we want to make really good shoes that help you get outside every day, no matter the weather or season. Our goal is to change the footwear industry by taking responsibility for our climate footprint. We make shoes that last, with low emissions and respect for both people and the planet. Part of what you invest in us, we give back to the Earth – for example by supporting organizations that protect old-growth forests.