Evaluation of Footwear Thermal Performance through Manikin Test and Simulation

A unique combination of manikin measurement and mathematical simulation was used to evaluate the thermal performance of two prototype modular boot systems intended to provide protection across a range of environmental conditions. Measured thermal insulations ranged from 0.91 to 1.85 clo (1 clo = 0.155 m²°C/W), and predicted endurance times (e.g. time for the toe temperature to reach 5°C) ranged from 56 to 169 min at -20°C, from 40 to 102 min at -30°C, and from 27 to 62 min at -50°C. Both systems provided appropriate thermal protection in a wide range of environmental conditions. The approach is time-saving and cost-effective, and is useful to understand the physical characteristics and thermal protection afforded by complex modular footwear, and better meet the needs of the customer.