Biophysical Evaluation of Footwear for Cold-Weather Climates
Abstract
Proper selection of footwear for cold-wet environments is important in determining individual performance and comfort. Testing only total dry insulation (lt) is not a wholly adequate basis for boot selection. The present study demonstrates an effective method for evaluating the effects of surface moisture on boot insulation. This method allows a more knowledgeable selection of footwear for cold-wet climates. In this study, regional insulation values were obtained under dry conditions, then during a soak in shallow water, and finally for insulation recovery after removal water. Results for seven boots show no advantage of presently used synthetic materials during short soak episodes. Insulated leather-synthetic boots, however, recovered to dry insulation levels more rapidly than more traditional insulated leather boots. Rubber waterproof bottoms were the most effective boot construction for retaining insulation levels during water exposure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA192672
Entities
People
- Thomas L. Endrusick
- William R. Santee
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine