Design and Product Development

Ice Hockey Elbow Pad Design Tailored for Female Athletes

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Abstract

With the recent surge in female hockey, this study sought to examine the challenges female players encounter by sharing a single sizing system with male players. The research involved conducting semi-standardized interviews with nine female hockey players (age 20 ± 1.0 years, height 164.3 ± 6.7cm, weight 62.6 ± 7.2kg), which were subsequently analyzed alongside Size USA data and comprehensive market research to identify specific issues. Interviews and 3D body scanning data revealed that fit and mobility were critical concerns which led players to sacrifice protection as well, as they exhibited different body proportions from their male counterparts. Drawing on the feedback provided by the players, an elbow pad that resolves the identified problems was prototyped and tailored to fit female players. The mobility, protection, and fit of the prototype were effectively evaluated by the participants, subjectively and objectively, as well as through controlled laboratory experiments.

Keywords: female protective gear, ice hockey elbow pad, prototype design

How to Cite:

Do, H. & Park, H., (2025) “Ice Hockey Elbow Pad Design Tailored for Female Athletes”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21806