Development of optimal sizing system for tactical gloves applying empirical loss coefficient ratio

Abstract

This study aims to improve Korean male soldiers’ mission performance and protect them from safety accidents by establishing an optimal sizing system that considers the fit of tactical gloves and production and supply efficiency. First, the wearing condition of tactical gloves was investigated through in-depth interviews and surveys. The optimal glove fit and loss coefficient ratio was then analyzed through a glove size selection experiment. Finally, the sizing system was optimized and verified by comparing the coverage rate to the current sizing system. The empirically derived loss coefficient ratio was 0.075, and the optimal sizing system for tactical gloves was S-hand length: 168 mm, hand width: 81 mm, M-hand length: 177 mm, hand width: 83 mm, L-hand length: 184 mm, hand width: 86 mm, XL-hand length: 191 mm, and hand width: 89 mm. The coverage rate of the optimal sizing system proposed in this study was 86.4%, showing an improvement of approximately 21.1% compared to the current sizing system (65.3%). In conclusion, the optimal sizing system for tactical gloves proposed in this study can realistically solve current sizing issues, as it improved the coverage rate by 21.1% without incurring additional costs for production or hindering the supply efficiency.