Newcastle University researchers have worked with clothing and equipment brand Berghaus applying scientific testing and analysis to develop new legwear technology that truly adapts to the female form.

ZonalAdapt is a legwear technology developed by Berghaus’s innovation space, MtnHaus, in response to a need to re-engineer women’s outdoor gear particularly trousers and leggings.

Market research with more than 100 women at hiking clubs, climbing circles and dance studios revealed a consistent set of issues in clothing. Whether from bloating, cycle-related changes, IBS, or fatigue, discomfort is commonly felt between the mid-torso and upper thigh, with waistbands that dig in, clothing rolling down, and chafing among the most frequent issues.

Physiological testing to inform design

To tackle the challenges of ill-fitting clothing, Berghaus wanted to take a robust, scientific approach to analysis and testing of new product designs.

Rosie O’Sullivan, Head of New Product Innovation, Berghaus explained: “Most gear isn’t designed to support the ergonomic, physiological or the anatomical needs of the female body.

“To tackle these issues, we wanted to work with a partner that could underpin the whole process with science, critically analyse the product, and help us make an informed, validated decision at the end.

“There is such a wealth of expertise in the Newcastle University team around biomechanics and sports science that they really helped us to focus and refine our designs and testing.

“Like the university, Berghaus is rooted in the North East. It has been great to collaborate on a pioneering project that has global relevance for our industry, here in this region.”

The University’s advanced sport and exercise research and testing facilities were used to carry out biomechanical modelling and physiological analysis, helping to validate and refine the product design.

Dr Iain Spears from the School of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences at Newcastle University was part of the testing. He said: “This project allowed us to apply advanced biomechanical modelling to a real-world challenge. By analysing how the body responds to movement and pressure, we were able to help shape a product that supports women’s comfort and performance in the outdoors.

“We were also able to involve some of our undergraduate students in the project with Berghaus giving them practical experience at the leading-edge of design and testing for performance products.”

A project led by women for women

Margot Gandelin, Senior Designer – Apparel, Berghaus explained: “I think designing for women is really important because historically most products have been developed for men. Women’s products have just been an adaptation of men’s products. As a designer, the collaborative working on this project has been a fantastic experience.”

The testing undertaken at the University was coordinated by the Business Development team, who work with industry to translate research into real-world impact.

Dr Bethan Sayers, Business Development Manager said: “This project is a great example of the broad range of work we’re able to undertake with businesses, bringing academic rigour and advanced technical facilities to real world problems.

“We collaborate with innovative companies like Berghaus to help answer their research questions and deliver meaningful insights that inform product development. Ultimately, we aim to create real-world impact for both the company and its consumers.”

Rosie O’Sullivan concluded: “What we hope to see is the science behind these new products showing up across our main product ranges in future.”

The first products from the collaboration with Berghaus - the ZonalAdapt Farren leggings and trousers - launch today.

Any business interested in collaborating with Newcastle University can find out more on our Business and Partnership pages.