Let’s be honest—picking the right protective gear can be tricky, but knowing the tech behind it makes a huge difference. That’s where RE ZRO® comes in, with materials that tap into a something called shear thinning to keep you safe. Want to know how it works? Let’s break down how RE ZRO® uses shear thinning to keep you protected.

What the Heck is Shear Thinning?

How Shear Thinning Works
Shear thinning might sound like complicated science, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. It happens in non-Newtonian fluids (a fancy way of saying stuff that doesn’t act like regular fluids).

There are 2 types of non-Newtonian fluids.

Shear thickening: The more force you apply, the harder the material gets, and, Shear thinning: The more force you apply, the more easily the material flows.

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Breaking away from the conventional shear thickening.

Conventional protectors harden under stress, which can protect against strong impacts but may bounce the force back to the user. Shear thickening materials can also cause discomfort by hardening during constant movements, especially in limb protection. Conventional shear thickening protectors come in thick thermoset foams with little ventilation.

Why is Shear Thinning a Big Deal for Impact Protection?

Shear thinning materials become softer and more flexible under stress, allowing them to absorb more energy and spread out the force smoothly instead of bouncing it back sharply. This also adds more comfort and freedom of movement.

The coolest part? As soon as the force is gone, it goes right back to its original comfortable state.

In RE ZRO® gear, this means the material stays soft, flexible and comfortable, but when impact hits, it absorbs more of the energy by becoming more fluid. No hard rebound, no pressure spikes, and less injury risk. This combo of flexibility and shock absorption is what makes RE ZRO such a game-changer for impact protection.

Suitable for situations where comfort + impact absorption is needed together.

This smart adaptation means you get top-notch protection which is low profile and lightweight —whether you’re playing sports, biking, or just going about your day.

Comfort That Lasts


Shear thinning isn’t just about protection—it makes your gear more comfortable, too. RE ZRO’s flexible materials fit snugly to your body, letting you move naturally without feeling like you’re wrapped in bubble wrap. This is crucial for athletes who need full range of motion to perform at their best. Plus, since our materials are lightweight, you can wear your gear for longer without feeling weighed down.

And because we don’t wear out easily, you can count on RE ZRO® gear lasting through all your adventures. The result? A user experience that’s comfortable, safe, and built to last.

In short, shear thinning is the unsung hero behind RE ZRO’s impact protection. It gives you flexibility when you need it and strength when it matters most—without any of the bulk. So whether you’re smashing tackles, hitting the slopes, or just out and about, RE ZRO® has got your back (and everything else).