Can smaller body armour improve thoracolumbar range of motion and reduce interference when female soldiers perform dynamic tasks?

• Published in: Applied ergonomics 2022-01, Vol.98, p.103602-103602, Article 103602
• Main Authors: Coltman, Celeste E., Brisbine, Brooke R., Molloy, Richard H., Steele, Julie R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Body armour; Comfort; Dynamic postures; Female soldiers; Range of motion
• ISSN: 0003-6870; 1872-9126
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103602

Most female soldiers report that in-service body armour systems are too large. We investigated whether a smaller prototype body armour system could improve thoracolumbar range of motion (ROM) and reduce interference when female soldiers performed dynamic postures. 97 female soldiers completed three ROM tasks and seven dynamic postures wearing no armour, an in-service body armour system, and a smaller prototype system. Feedback on comfort of the prototype system was also obtained. Thoracolumbar ROM and dynamic posture completion were both hindered by using body armour, although the participants’ performances were significantly less impeded when they wore the smaller prototype system compared to the in-service system. A smaller body armour system that is better matched to the anthropometric dimensions of female soldiers appears to improve overall fit and function. An increased range of body armour sizes and female-specific designs should be systematically explored to further enhance fit and function of body armour. •Thoracolumbar range of motion improved when participants wore a smaller prototype body armour system.•Interference during dynamic posture performance improved when participants wore a smaller prototype body armour system.•Findings support the notion that oversized body armour contributes to performance detriments reported by female soldiers.•The smaller prototype body armour system was rated as comfortable by most, but not all, female soldiers.•Researchers need to systematically explore smaller sizes and design modifications of body armour for female soldiers.