| Background: While technology has improved, the safety of athletes is still a primary focus of research on athletic performance and success. College football players are at a higher risk for heat illnesses and deaths due to elevated core body temperatures, the extreme environments they practice in, and the microenvironments their protective equipment creates. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different types of clothing on core temperature (Tc), skin temperature (Ts), and the microenvironments (ME) of well-trained males. Study Design: We followed a crossover study design, with each participant completing a cotton and channeled fabric clothing (CFC) trial. Methods: Well-trained males (n = 10) volunteered to participate in the study. Subjects participated in a sprint protocol. Physiological components were monitored throughout the protocol. All work was performed in a climate-controlled chamber at a mean temperature of 35°C and a mean relative humidity of 55%. Subjects performed two separate trials, each consisting of 85 minutes, separated by a 48-hour washout period. The order of sprints was randomized, and the subjects were not informed as to which series they were performing. Results: Change in Tc was significantly lower with cotton than CFC from 5 min to 85 min (p < 0.05). Change in thigh temperature (Tth) was significantly lower with CFC than cotton from 5 min to 85 min (p < 0.05). Significantly lower change in arm temperature (DeltaTa) was seen with CFC than with cotton (p < 0.05). Chest humidity and temperature within the ME were significantly lower (p < 0.05) with CFC while thigh humidity and temperature within the ME were significantly lower (p < 0.05) when cotton was worn. Conclusion: We concluded there was a significant difference in Tc between the CFC and cotton, the clothing seemed to have greater effects in regards to Ts and temperatures within the ME. Key Terms: Thermoregulation, microenvironment, skin temperature, football. What is known about the subject: Heat illness occurs world wide with intense bouts of exercise and occurs most often in hot-humid conditions. Heat illnesses include heat cramps, heat syncope, heat exhaustion, and exertional heat stroke. Prevention of these problems is the key aspect of our research. What this study adds to existing knowledge: The use of channeled fabric clothing does not produce large decreases to Tc. |
