Impact reactive materials for sports applications
d3o is a rate sensitive material, when it is struck or under impact it spreads the load of the strike over a wider area reducing forces and damage. This material has many applications that are still being actively developed. The design team worked with international Olympic athletes, key players from the world of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and emergency services. Each intervention relied on not just the material but the direct forming, lamination and material composite for optimum performance.
This type of work relied on continuous field-testing from the users, working in teams with engineers, textile experts, operatives and designers. All of the projects adhered to strict international standards, whilst maintaining brand value in a competitive market.
Riot/hostile situation apparel
Utilising a material to work in dedicated riot control situations. The products had to have maximum function with minimum restriction to the officers wearing it but remain within strict performance requirements. The project required extensive field-testing and simulation of scenarios for internationally based officers. This included simulated riots and reviewing the officers’ training for these situations.
The simulated riot events used actors and participants to create real world testing situations that are akin to real life events. These solutions informed protection for national sports teams representing Great Britain at international level, including the Parcour team, downhill ski team, mountain bike team and bobsled team, and premiered at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
“It protects, supports and does not restrict me from movement. This is critical when faced with explosive environments”.
Police staff, Brussels
“It is hard to explain: it just fits, performs and operates to the highest standards”.
Team GB