Assessment of Posture and Mobility to Improve the Outer Layer Design of Korean Military Cold Weather Jackets

This study examined the wearability of cold-weather military outerwear using a posture assessment and a mobility protocol that simulates a range of combat scenarios, including shooting, crawling, grenade throwing, and sprinting. Nine male subjects participated in this assessment under three clothing conditions: Control (the current jacket), Improved A (a wider and longer jacket with an improved hood), and Improved B (a wider and longer jacket with a different hood design). All three military jackets were made from identical materials. The subjects felt more restricted in the Control jacket than the Improved A and B jackets, especially when bending or twisting their arms and waist ( P<0.05). During the mobility test, the microclimate humidity on the chest and back exceeded 80%RH, with no significant differences among the three conditions. Despite no significant differences in thermal sensation or humidity perception, the subjects reported feeling less comfortable in the Control jacket than in the Improved A jacket ( P<0.05). Individual interviews highlighted issues with the Control jacket, such as restricted fit, discomfort in the hood, and impaired visibility. In contrast, the Improved A and B jackets produced enhanced psychological comfort, suggesting combat and training performance benefits. Thus, improving the size and hood design of a jacket without altering the materials can enhance mobility during various activities.