The Influence of Backpack-Design on Thermophysiological Parameters during Simulated Hiking Activities

Abstract

To assess the thermoregulatory capacities of backpack-designs, five male participants were equipped with a temperature and moisture measuring system. Relative humidity (rH) and temperature (T) were measured underneath the participants’ t-shirt—microclimate (MC)—and between shirt and backpack—interlayer climate (ILC). Participants completed a test protocol simulating a hiking exercise in three conditions in a randomized order: (W) without backpack and (B1-B2) with each of the backpacks (total weight: 5.4 kg). The test-protocol consisted of a 5-min rest, 10-min walk at 4 km/h without gradient, 15-min walk at 4 km/h with 8% incline, and a final 10-min rest. Results showed that the temperature and absolute humidity (aH) values generally decreased from the microclimate to the interlayer climate. Differences of up to ΔT = 1.27 °C and ΔaH = 2.55 g/m3 in the microclimate of the upper back area were observed for different backpack designs, indicating the influence of backpack design on thermoregulation.

Investigation on the thermal insulation and evaporative resistance of outdoor backpacks based on a sweating thermal manikin

“…This may cause a decrease in users' physical performance, even heat stroke in some cases. 5 Therefore, the heat dissipation property of backpacks is vital for users in summer.…”

“…Another study on the effects of load, ventilation design, and body movement demonstrated that the synergy of these factors could affect the heat dissipation property of backpacks. 11 However, research on human subjects could not avoid the systematic error caused by individual differences.…”