ITAA - KSCT Joint Symposium

Nieve: Children’s Safety Jacket with Integrated Harness for Mounting Ski Lifts

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Abstract

The Nieve Jacket System is a children’s ski jacket integrating a lift-assist harness to address safety challenges faced by young skiers when boarding and disembarking ski lifts. Current solutions rely on external harnesses that add bulk, restrict movement, and require additional purchases. Using a human-centered design approach, qualitative interviews with caregivers and analysis of existing child-safety harness systems informed the ergonomic placement, structure, and usability of the integrated handle and buckle mechanism. Prototypes were constructed with a polyester shell, fleece lining, and a nylon-webbing harness sewn into the jacket interior. Wear testing with children and parents demonstrated improved ease of lifting, comfort, and perceived security. Preliminary findings also indicate broader applications beyond skiing, including balance support and guided mobility during outdoor activities. A pending utility patent supports continued development of integrated safety apparel and future exploration of year-round, multi-scenario use.

Keywords: Children's Alpine Safety, Ski Lift Ergonomics, Integrated Harness Design, Human-Centered Design, Youth Skiwear Innovation, Lift-Assist Apparel, Prototyping and Wear Testing, Child Mobility Support, Force-Distribution Harness System, Outdoor Sports Safety Equipment

How to Cite:

Seiner, M., (2025) “Nieve: Children’s Safety Jacket with Integrated Harness for Mounting Ski Lifts”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21749