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Glides are specialized devices used to provide smooth, non-rolling motion for furniture and equipment. A typical glide consists of a fastener or insert and a flat or rounded smooth surface. Metal bolts are often used as fasteners, and they screw into a matching thread on the furniture base or legs. Once affixed, the smooth surface takes the place of the foot or base, allowing for easier movement across different surfaces. Alternatively, glides can be engineered with contoured synthetic inserts, which form a soft lock when placed in the appropriate cavity, or attached via a flange or similar fixture.

Glides provide a number of advantages for both purchasers and manufacturers. For purchasers, glides offer an easily replaced component in a location that receives the most wear and stress. For manufacturers, glides facilitate the production of standard components and can reduce machining costs; plastic insert glides are easily manufactured through various molding processes.

More sophisticated glides are also produced by manufacturers, including swivel, ball, leveling and adjustable glides. Swivel glides contain a sturdy rotating axle that allows one side to turn while the other remains in place. Leveling and adjustable glides allow end users to easily correct balance and positioning issues in equipment and furniture. Ball glides have a rounded base and provide specific movement characteristics for certain pieces of equipment and furniture. A wide range of custom shapes and designs are also produced by manufacturers according to customer specifications.

Materials used in the production of glides range from PVC to nickel and chrome plated steel. Heavy duty glides use harder synthetic materials, such as nylon, as bases to ensure better safety and function. Non-skid varieties are available. Certain glides contain cushion mounts that help them move fluidly over irregular surfaces; wider, temporary glides are used for furniture and equipment moving applications.