Inside the Development of AX SubZero: Creating a Material That Won’t Crack With Cold
The story of AX SubZero began with one core challenge: how to engineer the best glove material for cold weather that could withstand low temperatures without cracking. After consistently receiving feedback from brands about issues such as cracking and peeling on the palms of winter gloves, as well as a lack of flexibility in low temperatures, we decided to develop a solution based on this real-world input.
Early prototypes struggled against cold temperatures, often becoming brittle and unreliable just when performance mattered most. Through years of research, trial, and innovation, the AX Materials team developed a breakthrough blend that not only survived the cold but thrived in it.
SubZero is offered in two textures: DE-145 and UM-11K. Displayed here with the DE-145 texture.Proven and Tested for Cold Durability
AX SubZero is engineered to perform in the coldest conditions, proven by rigorous laboratory and field tests. An advanced TPEE rubber coating keeps the palm flexible and strong down to -30°C/-22°F.
Using the “Cold Crack” test, SubZero demonstrates its resilience by enduring 30,000 cycles in these subzero temperatures without surface cracking in any length or width direction. The material’s design ensures reliable performance shift after shift, no matter how harsh the environment.
Prototype gloves made with SubZero were field tested by the terrain park crew at McIntyre Ski Area.Choosing the Rubberized Palm
For SubZero, the choice was clear: using a rubberized palm would offer superior grip, flexibility, and abrasion resistance compared to traditional polyurethane (PU) coatings. The importance of the rubberized palm becomes especially evident in extreme cold, where PU can become rigid, cracked, or even shatter when exposed to freezing temperatures. Rubber, on the other hand, retains its flexibility and structural integrity, ensuring the glove stays comfortable while remaining protective and functional in winter conditions.
SubZero prototype gloves showing the rubberized palm.SubZero fills a longstanding industry gap and addresses the need for a palm that truly performs when temperatures plummet. This solution was developed directly in response to testimonials and survey feedback from users who shared the specific qualities they sought in a cold-weather glove: reliable grip, flexibility, and cold resistance where other materials had failed.
SubZero’s innovation delivers reliable grip and protection, giving users control and confidence in the job. That’s why it’s become the new standard for cold-weather glove materials.
Who Relies on SubZero? The Go-To Material for Cold, Demanding Jobs
Since its debut, gloves with a SubZero palm have been field-tested by gear manufacturers and demanding professionals in industries where performance in the cold is non-negotiable. From icy construction sites to high-stakes winter sports, SubZero has proven it can maintain flexibility, grip, and protection when other materials fail. Its reliability has made it a new standard for cold-weather gloves, reinforcing SubZero as more than a breakthrough.
- Industrial Workers: SubZero was built to be the go-to palm material for workers braving the cold in construction, warehousing, utilities, and refrigerated environments. Gloves made with SubZero provide lasting grip and flexibility for safely handling tools, machinery, and materials, even in subzero temperatures.
- Athletes: From hockey and skiing to winter running, athletes can count on SubZero for a secure grip and consistent performance in the cold. Its durability means the gear stays flexible and responsive, even after repeated use on ice or snow.
- Everyday Use: Whether it’s shoveling snow, driving, or walking the dog, SubZero is equally at home in daily winter routines. It brings professional-grade protection and comfort to anyone facing the cold season after season.
No matter the challenge or environment, SubZero is built to deliver protection, grip, and flexibility when temperatures drop.