When I research concept designs to feature, I try to find items that would truly be useful for people with disabilities. Sometimes I come across designs where it’s obvious the designer did not consult anyone with a disability. Now they have good intentions but consultation with an end user is crucial to any product design. Fashion and product designer Liesel Sylwester of Portland, Oregon took heed to this advice. When designing her Vertex wheelchair rugby gloves, she worked extensively with World Wheelchair Rugby Champion and Paralympian Will Groulx.

Lack of Specialized Equipment

I’ll admit that I’m not very familiar with wheelchair rugby but do know that it’s physically demanding. Lots of maneuvering is done which can take a toll on the hands. Unfortunately there is not a major market available for specialized wheelchair rugby gloves. Instead standard wheelchair gloves are tinkered with by the players. Sylwester sought a better solution.

Extensive Research

First she analyzed feedback from Groulx about what needs should be addressed such as temperature control, stability and balance, hand protection, and mobility. She then looked at other sporting equipment such as compression pants and sports arm sleeves to analyze their features. Finally bringing together what she learned to make prototypes.

More Than A Glove

The Vertex glove begins as a glove that goes up a little past the wrists. A zipper on the side makes for a tighter and better forming fit. Straps with velcro wrap around the wrist area for stability and to prevent glove slippage. To prevent hand sweating and overheating, the sides of the fingers are made of mesh.

In The Palm of Your Hand

Padding and grips for the palm and fingers is especially important. Padding to protect the hands and grips for maneuverability. Here the Vertex gloves have replaceable pads for the palm and fingertips. The palm pads come on and off with snaps while the fingertip pads pop into housings. Each pad is textured with bumps that work with a textured wheel decal. The textured wheel decal can also be replaced easily after the surface wears down.

Conclusion

The Vertex wheelchair rugby gloves are a well researched an implemented concept design. With solid feedback from the highest of end users. For more on the Vertex Glove and to see more of Liesel Sylwester’s designs, visit this website.







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