Investigating Upper Shaft Material in Military Boots: Implications for Gait and Design Optimization

چکیده مقاله

FEATURE AT A GLANCE: This study examined how shaft material in military boots affects biomechanics and muscle activity. Twenty healthy males walked in formal shoes and three boot types: two leather and one hybrid leather synthetic. Using force plates and EMG, ground reaction forces, rate of force development, impulse, and muscle activity were recorded. Results showed lower muscle activity in shoes versus boots. The hybrid design reduced tibialis anterior activation, minimized negative impulse, and enhanced positive impulse. These outcomes suggest that incorporating synthetic materials, which reduce shaft stiffness, can improve mobility and efficiency offering biomechanical benefits particularly relevant for military applications.