1. Committee Members
Design and Evaluation of Functional Gear for
Protection, Fit and Mobility
Ruchireeka Rath
School of Design and Community Development
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Design
704E Allen Hall | P.O. Box 6124
Morgantown, WV 26505
Craig Nelson, MID, Advisor
Cindy Beacham, Ph.D.
Kerry Odell, Ph.D.
November 16, 2016
Thesis Defense for Degree of Masters in Science

2.  Introduction
 Purpose & Objectives
 Conceptual Framework
 Methodology
 Thesis Structure
 Planning Phase
 Overview of Literature
 Establishment of Design Criteria
 Research Phase
 Market Reviews
 Comparison between different type of Closures
 Concept Development Phase
 Ideation and Technical Sketches
 Concept Selection: Questionnaire response
 Concept Selection: Data Analysis
 Concept Detailing Phase
 Different component of Design in detail
 Evaluation Phase
 Decision Matrix and Results
 Conclusion
 Potential Applications
Contents

3. Introduction
 Importance of innovative tools in product use is of primary importance to both
consumer and the design industry1
 More than 140 million Americans make outdoor recreation a priority and over
$646 billion was spent on outdoor products in 2012.2
 Despite progress by industry, 25% of the shoes Americans own are too
uncomfortable to wear3
 Comfort factor is claimed to be of utmost importance in wading boots – one of
the most important pieces of angler’s fishing gear4
 Anglers commonly prone to sprained or broken ankle due to tumbling into the
river unexpectedly.
 Injuries can be prevented by wearing wading boot that provides solid
protection with wet, slippery rocks5
 Anglers endure safety and fit issues with their footwear because of their unique
conditions posed during fishing
 Functional and aesthetical innovations in fastening systems of wading boots
yet unknown and worth in-depth research
1 Justel, D., Vidal, R., Arriaga, E., Franco, V., & Val-Jauregi, E. (2007). Evaluation method for selecting innovative product concepts with greater potential market success.
International Conference of Engineering Design. Paris: Iced.
2 Outdoor Industry Association. (2012). The Outdoor Recreation Economy. Boulder, Colorado: Outdoor Industry Org.
3 Kelton Research. (2009). The Eneslow Survey. New York: Business Wire.
4 Guide to Wading Boots. (n.d.). Retrieved February 2, 2016, from Bigskyfishing.com: http://www.bigskyfishing.com/fly-fishing-articles/wading-boots-guide.php
5 Brown, R. H. (n.d.). personal communication.

4. Purpose & Objectives
To design a novel, utilitarian fastening concept in fishing footwear,
conceptualized to offer optimum protection, fit and mobility to anglers.
Understand
Functioning requirements of fishing footwear
Identify
Design issues through user reviews and market research
reports
Find
A conceptual design-solution through innovative ideations
and expert selection
Transform
The product concept into a design-for-manufacturability
prototype

5. Conceptual Framework
Planning
Research
Concept
Development
Concept
Detailing
Evaluation
1. Problem Finding (Planning & Research)
2. Problem Selecting (Reframing & Needs Establishment)
3. Solution Finding (Converging & Conceptualizing)
4. Solution Selecting1 (Experimenting & Screening)
CONTEXT
INSIGHT
IDEA
SOLUTION
1 Owen, C. (1998). Design Research: Building the Knowledge Base. Design Research , 19, 9-20.
2 Barry, M., & Beckman, S. L. (2008, July). Developing Design Thinking Capabilities. Step Inside Design .
The Iterative Design Process Cycle2
A project based research was conducted based on the
Iterative process cycle in order to aid in engaging design
process.
The project structure describes the focus points of the
project divided into the respective parts of the process.
Methodology
Project Structure
Process Model: Problem solving process
Research
 Practice-led and exploratory in nature
 Knowledge produced through creative practice with a novel concept

6. Planning Phase
Closures in other functional
gears
Constant engaging/disengaging of
the fastener eventually weakens
Velcro
Velcro Closure – unpleasant and
disruptive 4
Overview of Literature
Project is defined:
Conceptualization
of closure systems in
fishing footwear
Literature
Reviews
Establish Design
Criteria
Initial Problem
Area
Goal/Purpose Activities Output
Types of Fishing Shoes and
Boots
Fly fishing- Waterproof, Great
Choice for hikers 1
Shore Fishing - High breathability,
Great for getting in/off water,
Potential risk for fungus activity, low
protection
Boat fishing- Similar to Kayak shoes,
Ideally lightweight, Drains water
quickly 3
Canoe and kayak fishing shoes-
Designed to quickly drain water,
Lightweight 2
Velcro loosens during wear. Shoe is
discarded when the Velcro fails 4
Thus, replacement cost of Velcro is
higher than shoelace
Conventional Fastening
Systems
Tying laces is time consuming,
involves manual dexterity
Lacing loosens, increasing the risk of
tripping 5
1 Hudson, S. (2016, May 17). Fishing Footwear. Retrieved from Sports Fishing: http://www.sportfishingmag.com/fishing-footwear.
2 Outdoor sports gear reviews. (2015). The Best Kayaking Shoes Reviews Guide For 2016. Retrieved from OutdoorSportsGearReviews.
3 Afsar (2016, August 10). 10 Best Fishing Shoes 2016 – Buying Guide and Reviews. Kayakbase .
4 U.S Patents. (2013). "shoe closure device" in patent application approval process. Chicago: Politics & Government Week.
Closure should enhance the shoe’s
fit & function, optimizing
performance 6
Buckle & button systems provide a
crude discrete circumference
length adjustment
Lacing systems are still preferred
closure 7
Shoe closure configurations have
not changed over last 50 years 7
Hook/loop, lacing & cleat-based
buckles have variable adjustment
Velcro strap system &
buckle/ratchet system is mostly
used in Cycling sports 8
5 Neale, T. (2012). Patent No. 343801. U.S.
6 Conenello, R. (n.d.). Personal Communication. New York, US.
7 Burke, M. (2010, Novemeber 15). The Best Fly-Fishing Gear. Forbes
8 Hughey, J. (2013, February 27). How to Choose the Best Mountain Bike Shoes. Retrieved from Singletracks:
http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/how-to-choose-the-best-mountain-bike-shoes/

7. Fitting issues
Lacing provides greater strength
than zippers or hook and loop
fasteners, but it can cause
pressure on the instep of the foot
User's foot may swell slightly during
the course of the day and the
user may accordingly loosen the
laces a desired amount to
accommodate the swelling 11
Protection issues
Exposed laces ends may be
stepped on/ become caught/
entangled on another object
Exposed recess for the spring or
rigid element would tend to
collect dirt, mud, other debris,
thereby increasing the weight of
the footwear 12
Hardware items also tend to catch
on other objects on the ground,
thereby causing safety issues
Mobility issues
Buckle, straps or laces require
manipulation by a user, by
loosing or tightening the laces
or by stretching the elastic, to
provide for foot
insertion/retention and/or to
release the foot 13
14 Patent invention
(Gasparovic, Dieter, & Dalton, 2001)
Planning Phase
Great fit and support
Superior Protection
Water and corrosion resistant
Easy maneuverability
Establishment of Design
Criteria
9 Owl, J., Marin, I., & Enriquez, A. (2015). Laced with uncertainty: The impact of shoe gear fastening on dorsal shear stress. American Podiatric Medical Association annual meeting. Orlando, FL.
10Fraser, K. (n.d.). personal communication. Winnipeg, Canada
11 Neale, T. (2012). Patent No. 343801. U.S.
12 Nike. (2012). Patent No. 552120. U.S.
13 Frydlewski, G., Waingarten, M. R., & Reeb, D. (2014). Patent No. 20150082587. U.S.
Overview of Literature
Continued…
Medical Perspective in Shoe
Closure Systems
Clutch Reel Technology - only to turn
the knob to the set level of tension
Causes pressure if shoe opening is too
narrow or user has high arch 10
Useful for wearer with circulatory
restrictions 10
Clutch reel system would theoretically
eliminate the guesswork that goes with
adjusting laces 9

8.  Best Fishing Shoes (all types)
 Best Wading Boots for Fly Fishing & Hiking
 Test Results and Ratings of Best Overall Fishing-
Hiking Shoes for men
 Test Results and Ratings of Best Overall Fishing-
Hiking Boots for men
 Existing shoelace and fastener materials
 Shoelace Technology & Specialized Systems
Research Phase
To research user
problems related to
closure systems in
fishing footwear
Market research -
Product reviews
and
Editor ratings
Assembling
collective data
for existing
closures,
drawbacks &
benefits
Need
establishment
of innovation
in closure
systems
related to
fishing
footwear
Goal/Purpose Activities Output
The central
problem
definition
Gain understanding
of utility of closure
systems pertaining to
consumer’s
protection, fit and
mobility
Case studies on
bestsellers
Market Reviews
Test Results and Ratings of Best Overall Men’s fishing-hiking Boots (Lampley, 2015)

9.  Other Footwear
Categories
 Cycling Shoes
 Running Shoes
 Walking Shoes
 Sandals
 Boots
 Utilitarian products
 Bag-packs
 Clothes
 Helmets
 Luggage Mount
 Belts and
 Diabetic and
Medical Products
Research Phase
Popular Forms of
Closures
Collective data for existing closures, drawbacks & benefits

10. Concept Development Phase
Shortlisted
design
solution
To apply research
findings in ideation
and brainstorming
Concept ideation
& technical
sketching
Concept
elaboration
Goal/Purpose Activities Output
Develop concepts
that tries to solve the
central problem
Concept screening
by market experts
To evaluate and
select concept for
detailing
Concept
evaluation
Ideation - Design 1: Buckle with Dial System
Technical Sketch
Inspiration: Helmet & measuring tape
Convenience features:
 Dial offers greater degree of micro adjustability
 Dial provides fit consistency across the entire shoe- ensures
perfect fit every single time
 Padded strap not only holds the threaded mount for passage of
wires, but also evenly spreads pressure across the arch area
 No more hassle of loose shoelace ends, as the wires wind up
inside the reel
 Tightness can be fine-tuned by dialing in perfect closure force.

11. Concept Development Phase
Ideation - Design 2: Four-point lock Magnetic Harness
Technical Sketch
Technical Sketch
Convenience features:
 Advantages of two tried-and-tested fastening concepts –
Magnetic and Mechanical fastener
 Magnetic closure complimented by mechanical locking securely
and reliably fixes the fastener in its closed state.
 Magnets are held together securely by attractive force, allowing
for high closure force
Inspiration: Seat Belt
Functioning features:
 Use of slidable magnets combined with stable mechanical locking
 Opened through lateral sliding
 Enables virtually automatic closing by 4 magnetic touch points
 2 straps on each side of the shoe has quick release Cam buckle,
which is slided by each tooth

12. Concept Development Phase
Ideation - Design 3: Tightening Dial System
Technical Sketch
Convenience features:
 Independent wings are attached from the bottom side of a
stretchable neoprene liner that offers flexibility and moving space
with apt adjustments
 Due to the unique lace guides and precise closure, pressure points
are eliminated
 Tightness can be adjusted instantly to dial in the perfect fit every
time
 On-the-fly adjustments like this are impossible with shoelaces
Ideation: Positioning of dials to optimize flexibility in fit
adjustments
Functioning features:
 Simply loosen the dials and unhook the cables to reroute them and
find the perfect fit
 Toe box’s length & width can be adjusted independently with
several ways of lacing for achieving best fit acc. to width and shape
 Flexible side and outer “wings” can be adjusted to the foot’s width
and let the anglers fine tune the length with the pull of cable wire

13. Concept Development Phase
Ideation - Design 4: Calibrating Buckle with Micrometer Gauge
Technical Sketch
Convenience features:
 Micrometric closure called “calibrating buckle” ratchets allows
for precise, incremental tightening and loosening of the closure,
for easy on-the-fly micro adjustment
 Design allows grit to be cleared easily for reliable function on-
and off-trail
 High security Velcro is a double secure closure at the back of
the shoe for further holding back of heel during rigorous
movement activity
Ideation: Attempt to create an ultra-minimalist, yet an innovative
fastening system
Functioning features:
 Simple functionality and user interaction describes the uniqueness of
this model
 Maximum freedom of flexing with cross over straps all over the foot,
with which one could accommodate all the extensions during the
activity
 Push the center button to slightly loosen one tooth at the time; an
outward pull on both side levers completely releases the buckle

14. Concept Development Phase
Ideation - Design 5: Double Closure system
Cord Lace Inner Closure
Zippered Outer Closure
Technical Sketch
Convenience features:
 The inside boot closure to focus on comfort and fit and the
outside boot to focus on protection and water resistance
 Design allows grit to be cleared easily for reliable function
on- and off-trail
 Inner boot are kept snug by a draw cord
 Outer shell closes with a zipper and Velcro flap to keep out
the dirt, debris, gravel and mud from the river
 Could be a good choice for transition seasons as this model
keeps light snow and water out
Ideation: Integrated gravel guards
Functioning features:
 Boot is actually made of an inside boot within an outside boot,
although they cannot be taken apart
 Inner boot with traditional cord lace closure, outer boot functions as a
mid-calf gaiter with a zippered closure and a hook-and-loop flap
 Inside part has a pull-up for inserting the foot

15. Concept Selection: Instrument
Opinion rating using a linear 5-point Scale matrix
“Concept 1 is very viable, it also offers the cleanest look and the
easiest entry system.”
“Concept 2 was also interesting, I like the seat belt reference and
the overall ability to be able to customize fit with this design”
“Concept 2 was most interesting, especially the seat belt
reference and the overall ability to be able to customize fit with
this design”
“Concept 2 has an external fixation system and anglers may run
the potential for the fishing line and hooks getting caught on the
loose straps”
“Concept 3 would be my personal favorite and it has infinite
possibilities in its uses and adaptability in fit, comfort and
technical ability.”
“Concept 4 has excellent use of a system with an adjustable
tension and release on a shoe or boot design.”
“Concept 5 utilize a few too many closure systems while workable
requires the wearer to execute too many steps.”
“Most trout fisherman wear waders. These concepts could be a
great solution for surf fishing, could also have some potential for
commercial (long liners, blue fin fishermen, sine netters)”.
Additional Reviewer Comments
Part I: Protection
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Secure 4.0 4.5 4.5 5.0 4.5
Clean look 5.0 4.0 4.5 4.0 3.0
Powerful lock 5.0 4.5 5.0 4.5 4.5
Lightweight 5.0 3.5 4.5 3.5 3.5
Durable 4.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 5.0
Fight water retention 5.0 3.5 3.5 4.0 5.0
Sturdy mechanism 5.0 5.0 4.5 4.5 4.5
Reliable 4.5 4.0 4.0 4.5 4.0
Fail-safe mechanism 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.0
No transport of aquatic invasives 5.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.5
Water protection 4.5 4.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
51.0 44.5 45.5 45.5 46.0
Part II: Mobility
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Fast on/off transition 5.0 4.0 4.5 4.5 3.0
Convenient 4.0 3.5 4.0 4.0 3.0
Freedom of movement 5.0 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.0
Less user-engagement 4.0 3.5 4.5 4.5 3.0
Easy maneuver 4.5 3.5 4.0 4.0 2.5
Cushioning and motion control 4.5 4.0 4.5 4.5 3.5
Easy opening 4.0 3.5 4.0 3.5 3.0
31.0 26.5 30.0 29.5 22.0
Part III: Fitting
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Micro-adjustability 4.5 4.5 5.0 4.5 4.0
Snug fit 4.5 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.0
Custom fit comfort 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.0 4.0
No pressure points 3.5 3.5 4.0 4.0 4.0
16.5 17.5 19.0 18.5 16.0
Part IV: General
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Most innovative 4.5 5.0 4.0 3.5 2.5
Diverse area of applications 4.0 4.5 4.5 4.0 3.0
Commercial stand-point 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 3.0
Easy maintenance 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 4.0
16.5 17.5 16.5 15.5 12.5
Weighted Average
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Protection 51.0 44.5 45.5 45.5 46.0
Mobility 31.0 26.5 30.0 29.5 22.0
Fitting 16.5 17.5 19.0 18.5 16.0
General 16.5 17.5 16.5 15.5 12.5
30.5 27.8 29.4 28.9 25.8
Mean Average Scores of Questionnaire Responses

16. 22%
19%
19%
20%
20%
Protection
Design 1
Design 2
Design 3
Design 4
Design 5
22%
19%
22%
21%
16%
Mobility
Design 1
Design 2
Design 3
Design 4
Design 5
19%
20%
22%
21%
18%
Fitting
Design 1
Design 2
Design 3
Design 4
Design 5
21.4%
19.5%
20.6% 20.3%
18.1%
Overall (Weightage Average)
Design 1
Design 2
Design 3
Design 4
Design 5
21%
22%
22%
22%
13%
Commercialization Potential
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
23%
26%
20%
18%
13%
Innovation
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
20%
22%
23%
20%
15%
Diversity in Application
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
20%
20%
20%
20%
20%
Ease of Maintainance
Design 1 Design 2 Design 3 Design 4 Design 5
Concept Selection: Data
Analysis Results
Pie charts showing average design ratings related to various miscellaneous parameters
Criterion
Weightage
Factor
Weight
Percentage
Protection 2 28.57%
Mobility 2 28.57%
Fit 2 28.57%
Innovation 0.25 3.57%
Diversity in Application 0.25 3.57%
Commercial Standpoint 0.25 3.57%
Easy Maintenance 0.25 3.57%
Total 7 100.00%
HighestRated
avg
weight point
W
weight




Design 1
Design 4
Design 3
Design 2
Design 5

17. Concept Detailing Phase
Technical
specifications
To clarify the
concept mechanism
Design-for-
manufactura
bility solution
Instruction
manual of the
mechanism -
Technical
sheet
To iterate/modify
according to
feedback from the
reviewers
Feature
modification as
needed
Goal/Purpose Activities Output
To clarify the
concept details
Design features:
 Upper and sole - molded rubber that offer significant
resistance towards rough terrains, so that anglers do not
have to deal with unpleasant mishaps
 Waterproof materials featured in the upper provide
protection in wet conditions
 Sealed seams onto the molded toe covering ensure that
no water/dirt/debris or invasive species can enter the boot
 Large back loop of the boot helps easy foot insertion
Highlighted features of wide, soft, thermo-foamed
EVA padded strap :
 Increased cushioning and comfort Increased
cushioning and comfort
 Distributes pressure evenly over the arch area
 Adjustable from both sides for perfect centering

18. Your logo here
Concept Detailing Phase
Technical features:
 Simply turn the dial, to tighten
the wires and form a
comfortably stable envelope
around the foot
 To remove, simply pinch both
side small surfaces around the
dial and the cables instantly
release
 The red button releases the
ratchet lever making
adjustment
 Lifting up the buckle flap then
adjusts the fit along the entire
length of the shoe

19. Concept Detailing Phase
The soft instep strap is adjustable from both sides, to perfectly center
the EVA pad over a high or low instep

20. Collecting data
Evaluation Phase
Final design
solution
Validation of
the concept
for solving the
purpose
To evaluate final
concept
Taking feedback
decision from
market experts
Goal/Purpose Activities Output
To conclude on
central problem,
ensuring that the
fastening concept
provides optimum
protection, fit and
mobility
Documenting
feedback/revision
from experts
Analyzing data
to verify the
results
Decision Matrix
Performance Assessment
Criterion
Weight A1 A2 B1 B2 B3 Total Min. Max.
Secure & Sturdy mechanism 1.0 1 -1 1 0 1 2 -5 5
Fight water retention 1.0 1 1 0 1 1 4 -5 5
No transport of aquatic
invasives
1.0 1 1 1 0 0 3 -5 5
Fast on/off transition 1.0 1 -1 1 0 1 2 -5 5
Convenient & Easy opening 1.0 1 1 -1 1 1 3 -5 5
Less user-engagement 1.0 -1 0 1 1 1 2 -5 5
Micro-adjustability 1.0 1 1 1 1 1 5 -5 5
No pressure points 1.0 1 0 1 0 1 3 -5 5
Diverse area of applications 0.5 1 1 0 1 1 4 -5 5
Commercial stand-point 0.5 0 1 1 0 1 3 -5 5
Weighted Sum 27.5 -45 45
Normalized Weighted Sum 0.61 -1 1
Conclusion from Decision Matrix
 Additional reviewers (B1, B2, B3) prevent population bias
 Developed design has net positive utilitarian value
 Agreed upon by experts w.r.t. major design parameters
 Protection
 Mobility
 Fit

21. Summary
 Conceptual development of a fastening system in fishing
footwear - by assimilating utilitarian-design values in a
product-design model
 Achieved through project-based research methodology
 Extensive review conducted towards establishing a need for
research around fastening systems for fishing footwear
 Five illustrative design concepts for fishing footwear fastening
systems created based on iterative ideation process
 One fastening concept selected using feedback from
footwear design experts
 Selected fastening concept refined and detailed using
intricate 3-D models and detailed technical specification
 Verification of the final-design solution based on decision
matrix technique was done

22. Other Potential Applications
 Could be theoretically used in inter-disciplinary for future
development of other functional wearable products
 Concepts can be translated into any realm of product design /
outdoor sports
 Application in other significant utility products like bag packs,
helmets, sports equipment

23.  Advisor – Prof. Craig Nelson
 Dr. Cindy Beacham
 Dr. Kerry Odell
 Industrial Experts / Reviewers
 Dept. Administration – Pam, Joy
 Friends – Angie, Kristina, Hanna, Pariya…
Acknowledgement

24. Committee Members
Design and Evaluation of Fastening Systems in
Functional Gear for Protection, Fit and Mobility
Ruchireeka Rath
School of Design and Community Development
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Design
704E Allen Hall | P.O. Box 6124
Morgantown, WV 26505
Craig Nelson, MID, Advisor
Cindy Beacham, Ph.D.
Kerry Odell, Ph.D.
November 16, 2016
Thesis Defense for Degree of Masters in Science