Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a sealing assembly for partitioning a first fluid from a second fluid includes a first machine component defining a seal groove adjoined to a pocket recess and a second machine component having a relatively rotatable surface. A rotary seal is in sealing engagement with the first and second machine components. The rotary seal includes a seal body of generally ring-like construction. The seal body has a predetermined modulus of elasticity and defines a dynamic sealing lip having a dynamic sealing surface. The seal body has an annular recess defining a plurality of retaining ridges and retaining depressions. The annular recess has a first volume in an uninstalled condition and a compressed volume when the rotary seal is in sealing engagement with the first and second machine components. An energizer element is positioned in the annular recess and engages the plurality of retaining ridges and depressions in the annular recess.