Dissertation
Military Boot Fit Research
Enhancing Soldier Performance and Reducing Foot Injuries
Introduction & Context
Introduction
Ill-fitting shoes are a major contributor to foot pain and injuries. Research has shown that over 50% of soldiers wear ill-fitting military boots, exacerbating their risk of serious foot problems due to the physical demands of their activities. Improperly sized boots can significantly hinder a soldier's performance and overall health.
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Research Context
As an expert in footwear product development, Oliver VOLTE brings extensive industry experience to this research, specializing in product development and export sales. This research topic emerged from both professional expertise and personal insight when her son, a serving soldier, experienced foot injuries due to poor boot sizing during active duty.
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Research Objectives
To enhance soldier performance and reduce foot injuries through the development of innovative boot-sizing methodologies.
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Methodology
Our research employs a mixed-method approach, including:
Literature review of existing studies on military footwear
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Questionnaires for active military personnel
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Analysis of current military boot sizing practices
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Development and testing of new sizing methodologies
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Research Significance
Proper boot fitting is crucial for:​
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Enhancing soldier mobility and comfort
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Reducing the risk of foot injuries and related health issues
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Improving overall mission readiness and performance
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Participate in Our Research
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​Military Personnel
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The survey will be available from 25th November 2024 for about 30 days
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Link to survey: Military Boot Survey
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Estimated completion time: about 5 minutes
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Special Offer: Free ebook on military foot care (Limited to first 100 participants)
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Military Regiments
Collaborate to reduce administrative costs and medical expenses while receiving practical boot-fitting education.
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Footcare Professionals
Share expertise to enhance understanding of foot-related issues and develop effective solutions.
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​Military Footwear Manufacturers
Partner in developing innovative sizing methodologies to reduce return rates and improve product fit
We welcome collaboration opportunities with Regiments, Foot Care Specialists and Manufacturers to enhance this research. For more information or to discuss potential participation:
Contact: research@oliverlandconsulting.com
Subject line: "Military Boot Research Collaboration"
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References & Academic Context
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Pilot Study 2024
A pilot study was conducted in 2024 on the impact of military boot fitting on operational performance. This initial research phase identified key areas for improvement and justifies expanding the study to a larger sample through this survey.
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Current Phase
We are currently expanding our research sample to strengthen the scientific validity of our findings. Participate in our survey.
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Upcoming Publication
"Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Addressing Foot Injuries in Military Personnel Through Improved Shoe Sizing Education" (In progress)
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References
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Franklyn-Miller et al. (2011) Military footwear and stress injuries
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Schulze et al. (2014) Influence of footwear fit on military performance
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Wilson et al. (2017) Prevention of lower extremity stress injuries
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Andersen et al. (2020) Combat boot ergonomics analysis
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Ahmed, S. (2024b, August). *Over 50% of soldiers are wearing poorly fitting shoes* [Video interview].
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Rossi, W. A., & Ross, T. (2012). *Professional Shoe Fitting*. National Shoe Retailers Association.
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Nesterovica, D., Vaivads, N., & Stepens, A. (2021). Relationship of footwear comfort, selected size, and lower leg overuse injuries among infantry soldiers. *BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 22*, 952.
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Expected Impact
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Improvement of military boot fitting criteria
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Reduction in injuries related to poor fit
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Optimization of operational performance
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​​​​​​​​​​​​Research conducted by Wing Fa Oliver VOLTE
Federation for European Education (FEDE)
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