Identifying key evaluation criteria and design attributes to optimize sports bra design for senior females

Abstract

The sports bra plays an important role in providing adequate support and minimizing breast movement to prevent exercise-induced discomfort, pain, and potential damage. However, there has been limited investigation into the evaluation of sports bras specifically designed for senior females. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify key multi-criteria for evaluating the design attributes of sports bras for senior women. Another aim was to systematically and numerically assess sports bra performance based on human perceptions. To achieve these objectives, the Delphi study was employed to identify key criteria, and the Analytic Hierarchy Process was utilized to rank the importance of both design attributes and sports bra styles. Unlike traditional evaluation methods, this study stands out by first identifying the multi-dimensional criteria for sports bras and then assessing intangible perceptions based on both subjective and objective feedback. The results indicate that the top three important criteria for subjective self-evaluation were overall support, shaping effect, and tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the top criteria for objective third-party evaluation were appearance, underband stability, and fit. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the long-shirt encapsulation-style sports bra, featuring a high neckline and a double back layer, was more suitable for senior women than the other three styles tested. This design provides ample support, an excellent shaping effect, sufficient back support for maintaining good posture, and freedom of movement during physical activities. These findings can inspire designers and manufacturers to develop sports bras tailored specifically for senior women by combining optimal attributes and design features.