Design of novel buoyant swimming vest using inlay knitting technology

Abstract

The use of children’s buoyant swimwear has become more common. However, its bulkiness and hardness restrict the wearer’s movement. For better fit, comfort and mobility, a knitted buoyant swimming vest is developed. It is compared with two market samples using subjective evaluation according to the Functional, Expressive and Aesthetic (FEA) Consumer Needs Model and laboratory tests of objective measurements. The results of a paired-sample t-test show that a tightly fitting buoyant swimming vest should be worn out of water, as the vest becomes a perfect fit in water. Tests on the knitted buoyant swimming vest demonstrate improved functionality and higher buoyancy than that of two market samples conforming to British Standard EN13138-1:2014. The results of repeated measures analysis of variance show an overall significant higher satisfaction level in the knitted buoyant swimming vest than two market samples in terms of fit, comfort and mobility. The results of this study are significant for both the textile industry and the fast-growing sportswear industry.

The effect of body shape and swimsuit type on the comfort of Chinese women wearing swimsuits

“…[59][60][61][62] Participants said that the choice between the two depends on how much of the body is exposed; there was broad consensus on this issue. [63][64][65] Some studies have found that, although bikinis exert less pressure on the body than, for example, one-piece swimsuits, the fact that they expose a larger part of the body may be the reason why bikinis are less preferred by women. 66,67 Another reason may be related to professional swimming or water sports, in which a bikini might not be the first choice for women engaged in professional swimming.…”

“…Several studies have investigated the effects of exercise on breast pain and how bra type, design and fit affect an individual’s perceived comfort. 19,39 These studies suggest that the type of bra used affects the level of discomfort felt by the wearer. Other studies have focused on the effects of larger breasts during exercise.…”

Novel weft-knitted spacer structure with silicone tube and foam inlays for cushioning insoles

“…23 This method has been used to manufacture compression garments and buoyant swimwear . [24][25][26][27][28][29] In fact, Li et al showed that inlaid fabric has better recoverability with an increase in the diameter of the inlaid material. 30 Yu et al showed that inlaid silicone tubes increase the compression resistance and impact force absorption of spacer fabrics.…”