Abstract: A layered engagement structure includes a first layer with a multiple of openings, the first layer at least partially corresponds to a shape of a foot sole and a multiple of columns, each of the multiple of columns correspond with one of the multiple of openings in the first layer to extend at least partially therein.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a layered structure including a first layer with a multiple of openings, a second layer, and a component including a multiple of columns with connecting segments therebetween, the connecting segments are disposed between the first layer and the second layer so that each of the columns extend at least partially through at least one of the multiple of openings.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a multi-layered structure including a first layered structure with a multiple of first openings, a first component with a multiple of first columns, each of said multiple of first columns extend at least partially through one of the multiple of first openings, a second layered structure with a multiple of second openings, and a second component with a multiple of second columns, each of said multiple of second columns extend at least partially through one of the multiple of second openings, wherein the first layered structure includes a first characteristic and the second layered structure includes a second characteristic, the first characteristic different than the second characteristic.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a layered structure including a top layer, a bottom layer, and a grip component disposed between the two layers such that columns from the grip component extend at least partially through openings in the top layer and/or bottom layer. Also provided are mats including the layered structure such that different grip characteristics are provided on the ends of the mat and/or the two sides of the mat by varying one or more characteristics or components of the layered structure.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a mat including a compressible first layer, openings formed through one or more first portions and columns disposed in/proximate to the openings. One or more second portions, or at least one column, or both may be configured to be depressed to provide support and traction. The present disclosure further provides a towel including an absorption layer and a compressible region of flexible fiber disposed on one or more first portions of a top surface of the absorption layer. The towel may further include one or more columns disposed either on one or more second portions or in/proximate to openings formed through the one or more second portions. The compressible region of flexible fiber may be configured to be depressed in a compressed configuration to provide support and traction. The mat or the towel may be further adapted to form a grip apparatus.