High performance apparel for protection

Tyler, DJ (2017) High performance apparel for protection. In: High-performance apparel: materials, developments and applications. The Textile Institute Book Series . Elsevier. ISBN 978-0-08-100904-8

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Abstract

All animals have a protective covering of skin, generally supplemented by an additional layer of fur, scales, feathers or body armour. Consequently, we are surrounded by instructive models of protection – applicable to a great variety of environments and hazardous events. This chapter is particularly concerned with protection from injury resulting from impacts to the human body. The goal is the development of apparel (an additional layer designed for humans) that reduces risks of injury whilst maintaining usability and comfort for wearers. Understanding the mechanisms relevant to protection provides a starting-point for designing garments that absorb and diffuse the energies of impacts. However, a user-centred design approach must recognise that impact protection is just one of many factors to be considered during product development.