Comparison and Evaluation of Sizing Systems Used in Commercial Women’s Compression Sportswear

• Main Author: Kristina Brubacher
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-06-01
• Series: Proceedings
• Subjects: compression sportswear; garment fit; sizing; anthropometry; three-dimensional body scanning; Laplace’s Law
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2504-3900/49/1/140

Currently, there is no published research evaluating sizing methodologies for commercial sports compression garments (SCGs), so this study addresses the research gap by analysing sizing systems used for women-specific SCGs. Firstly, fit trials with whole-body SCGs were conducted with 33 active females. Secondly, the upper and lower body size charts of 12 SCG brands were analysed. Thirdly, the fitness of the size charts for the sample was assessed. Findings of the fit trials indicated that the fit of the SCGs varied from the intended fit in most participants at certain body locations, which is problematic for consistent pressure delivery. New sizing approaches are needed for SCGs, as fit requirements differ from conventional clothing, and current approaches appear to be inappropriate. The inclusion of a limb circumference measurement as a key dimension could be beneficial due to the interrelation of fabric tension and limb girth in pressure delivery (Laplace’s Law).