Explorations of Design Factors for Developments of Protective Gardening Gloves

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify important design factors for protective gardening gloves and consider possible design features for these gloves. A mixed methods procedure was used involving market research, an online survey, and a focus group. Ten design factors of protective gardening gloves were identified: skin cut and puncture protection, dirt and insect protection, UV ray protection, water resistance/waterproofness, dexterity, comfort of movement, breathability, ease of donning and doffing, durability, and ease of care. Potential consumers’ preferred design features for each design factor were investigated through the online survey and focus group. Designers can apply the identified preferred design features in this study as guidelines to satisfy each design factor so that designs can be more easily accepted by consumers. The results of this research can be beneficial for designers in the development process of protective gardening gloves and ultimately benefit gardeners.