Preference-Based Design and Prototype Development of Farm Clothing for Youth Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria

<h2>Abstract</h2> <p>This study adopted a preference-based design approach to develop prototype farm clothing<br>for youth farmers in Cross River State , Nigeria . A survey and research -and-development (R&D)<br>design were employed. From a population of 1,471,967 youth farmers, a sample of 400 respondents<br>was selected using a multi -stage sampling technique . Data were collected using the Protective<br>Clothing Needs Assessment Questionnaire (PCNAQ ), which was validated by experts , with<br>reliability established using Cronbach ’s alpha . Mean and standard deviation were used for data<br>analysis. The findings identified 24 farming activities commonly performed by youth farmers and 14<br>functional clothing needs rated as important for farm work. Most proposed protective clothing design<br>options were preferred , while a sleeveless apron and pleated nose mask fell below the acceptance<br>benchmark and were excluded . Based on these preferences , prototype farm clothing items were<br>developed in three size categories, including overalls (with and without hood), head protection, face<br>masks , and gloves . The prototypes were assessed for fit and functional attributes by a panel of 15<br>judges. The study demonstrates how user-identified activities and preferences can be systematically<br>translated into locally appropriate farm clothing prototypes</p>