Exploring Women's Perception of High Metabolic Clothing

Abstract

This study presents the first exploratory inquiry into women's perception of High Metabolic Clothing (HMC) that could aid in weight loss and/or muscle maintenance/gain. A mixed methods study was conducted combining an online survey (n = 502) and interviews (n = 30). A composite variable combining BMI and exercise engagement was used to group and compare participants for data analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and content analysis guided by the FEA (functional, expressive, and aesthetic) Consumer Needs Model. Results revealed that 83.5% of survey respondents were interested in wearing HMC; high BMI non-exercisers were identified as the biggest market for HMC. Four future directions were identified for HMC to address a range of user needs. Clothing that resisted movement was perceived as acceptable providing HMC helped a wearer to achieve their goals and the design adhered to consumers’ aesthetic needs and societal clothing norms.