Design and Product Development

Selected Kirigami Pattern Cutout for Optimal Flexibility and Wicking in Triathlon Performance Wear T-Shirt

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Abstract

The performance of athletes can be negatively impacted because of lack of comfortable garments. It is essential to ensure sweat evaporation and range of motion are not hindered because of clothing. The present study proposed the use of kirigami slits, that is, precise geometrics cuts that opened up to enable localized thermal and moisture management as well as improve stretchability. The skin deformation and sweat evaporation patterns were analyzed through an exploratory review of literature to identify appropriate locations for incorporating the slits. Five different kirigami cut patterns were tested for (1) young’s modulus using the Instron test and (2) water vapor permeability (WVP) using upright wet cup test. The slit pattern that had the highest stretchability and highest WVP was selected and a prototype was developed. The design of the prototype was also expected to prevent sensorial discomfort, facilitate easy donning and doffing, and provide aerodynamic advantage.

Keywords: Triathlon, Kirigami, Thermal Comfort, Ease of Motion

How to Cite:

Galada, A., Melissas, A., Collins, A. & Park, H., (2022) “Selected Kirigami Pattern Cutout for Optimal Flexibility and Wicking in Triathlon Performance Wear T-Shirt”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 79(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.15848