Thermal Sensation and Thermal Comfort while Wearing Down-Padded Jackets with a Regional-Baffle Design in a Cold Environment

This study investigated the effects of regional down insulation on thermal sensation, thermal comfort, and shivering responses during cold exposure while wearing a baffle-type padded jacket.Eight healthy young males (23.4 2.5 y) participated in nine trials in a climate chamber set at -9.7 1.0C, each lasting 60 min in a seated posture.The experimental padded winter jacket was divided into eight compartments (chest, front waist, abdomen, upper back, lower back, hips, upper arms, and forearms), and insulation was selectively removed from one compartment per trial, with the fully filled jacket serving as the control.Whole-body and local thermal sensation and comfort were assessed every 10 min using standardized categorical scales, and shivering frequency and location were recorded.Removal of insulation from the chest, abdomen, or hips did not significantly affect whole-body thermal sensation or thermal comfort.In contrast, removing insulation from the upper back or upper arms significantly increased local cold sensation (p < 0.05) and reduced thermal comfort.Clothing insulation measured by a thermal manikin decreased only slightly ( 0.07 clo) when any single compartment was unfilled, suggesting minimal overall thermal impact.These results indicate that maintaining insulation at the upper back and upper arms is critical for preserving thermal sensation/comfort and reducing shivering, whereas partial insulation reduction at the chest or abdomen is possible without compromising overall thermal perception.The findings provide practical insights for designing energy-efficient winter jackets that minimize down usage while maintaining wearer comfort and supporting behavioral thermoregulation.