• Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles
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• v.47 no.4
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• pp.696-710
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• 2023

This study investigated the problems of Korean female combat uniforms and collected primary data for developing new combat uniforms with improved functionality. We analyzed fit and motion suitability by administering a questionnaire evaluating the current uniforms to 20 Korean female soldiers. The evaluation of fit suitability found that satisfaction with the combat uniforms was generally high. However, short sleeve length, large wrist circumference, small hip circumference, large ankle circumference, and low crotch height were discomfort factors. In the evaluation of motion suitability, dissatisfaction was found with the sleeve circumference, elbow circumference, armhole circumference, knee crease and crotch height, and back waist height during motion. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a more segmented size system that suits the physique of current female soldiers and to devise appropriate solutions for improving motion suitability. This study is meaningful for its evaluation of the current combat uniform of female soldiers, and it is expected to serve as a reference for the future development of military combat uniforms for this group.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles
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• v.47 no.2
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• pp.311-322
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• 2023

In this study, the properties of various material combinations were evaluated and an ideal material for fabricating protection pads for women's army combat uniforms was determined. Eight specimens were used for the evaluation: two types of materials, namely thermoplastic polyurethane for 3D printing, T and ethylene-vinyl acetate, E; two infill densities, namely 10%, 10 and 30%, 30; two types of pad designs, i.e., without holes, A and with holes, B; 2×2×2=8 and control E. The tensile strength, flexural strength, impact absorption, and weight of these specimens were evaluated. Results revealed that E was the most flexible material; however, its tensile strength and impact absorption were very low. Protection pads made from T (T-10A, T-10B, T-30A, and T-30B) had excellent tensile strength and impact absorption; however, they had low performance in ease of movement. Alternatively, protection pad with holes and an infill density of 30% produced using a combination of T and E had a high initial tensile modulus and exhibited excellent impact absorption. Moreover, it was flexible and light, which satisfies the standards and conditions required by protection pads. However, if T-E-10A and T-E-30B exhibited low impact absorption, as required, they can be regarded as appropriate materials for protection pads.