A methodological approach to wetsuit design based on the formation of a classification of water sports

This article is devoted to the development of methodological approaches to wetsuit design based on the classification of water sports. The goal of this research is to create innovative wetsuits adapted to the specifics of water sports, increasing reliability and protective properties, while improving comfort and performance. The subject of the study is the "person-wetsuit-aquatic environment" system, with a particular focus on protecting the wearer from external factors by developing rational variants of wetsuit components, taking into account ergonomics and the dynamic conformity of the product. The article proposes a systematic classification of aquatic sports, taking into account the nature of the aquatic environment, the degree of its control, temperature parameters, and the requirements for protective equipment. A model for the combination of the type of sports discipline and the characteristics of wetsuits (neoprene thickness, design, and mandatory application conditions) has been developed. Special attention was paid to the water sport "slalom" as a sport with maximum hydrodynamic variability and increased thermal protection requirements. The dependence of equipment selection on temperature ranges, flow velocity, and wind conditions has been substantiated. The presented classification can be used in the development of new types of wetsuits with enhanced protective properties, as well as in athlete training, regulatory requirements, and improvement of training logistics. 

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