Body position-dependent pressure redistribution across bra designs
Kristina Shin, Kaoru Leung, King Yan Chung, Qiu Qiong ShiPurpose
Bra design features influence how mechanical load is distributed across the body during wear, yet limited empirical evidence exists on how body position alters regional interface pressure across different bra constructions. This study aims to examine body position-dependent pressure redistribution patterns across multiple bra designs using a multi-sensor wear protocol.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 12 women wore four bra designs (crossover, frame, wired and wireless), while interface pressure was measured at ten anatomically defined locations during relaxed sitting, upright sitting and standing. Mean interface pressure data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance, followed by Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons to identify significant design-related differences within each position. Pressure redistribution patterns were visualized using radar (spider) charts.
Findings
Body position produced distinct region-specific pressure changes, with standing associated with higher pressure at the shoulder strap and underband, and upright sitting associated with increased pressure at the center gore. Bra design effects were localized, with the crossover bra showing reduced pressure at the underband region alongside altered lateral pressure distribution, and the wireless bra exhibiting increased pressure at the center gore under upright conditions. No single design minimized pressure across all regions, indicating that bra constructions redistribute load across anatomical sites rather than uniformly reducing pressure.
Originality/value
This study provides quantitative, region-specific evidence of how body position interacts with bra construction to influence interface pressure distribution. By integrating multi-sensor measurements with body position-aware analysis, the findings provide design-relevant insight for improving bra comfort and structural performance through region-specific pressure management.