Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE, or UHMW for short) is a tough white plastic with a very low coefficient of friction and a tendency to chip on impact instead of warping, making it ideal for a number of combat robotics applications. I use it for ReBoot's shuffler feet, but the same slipperiness which makes it a great bearing surface also would have terrible traction on arena floors if left bare, as in ReBoot version 1.
Meanwhile, Vytaflex polyurethane is a favorite in the combat robotics community for its high coefficient of friction, durability, and ease of application. However, there was one major obstacle to connecting these two materials: the long molecular bonds that give UHMW its slipperiness also make it near-impossible for it to adhere to other substances, even paint.
After some research, I happened upon this article , where