Impact of Anthropometric Foot Measurements on Gender-Specific Shoe Design for University Students

Abstract

The human foot is a complex biomechanical structure that plays a fundamental role in locomotion, balance, and overall well-being. For university students, who often engage in diverse activities ranging from academic pursuits to sports and social engagements, well-fitting footwear is not merely a matter of comfort but a critical determinant of health, performance, and injury prevention. This study employed a descriptive survey design to investigate anthropometric foot measurements for gender-specific shoe design among university students. A convenience sample of (100) males and (100) females was drawn from the Mechanical and Industrial & Production Engineering departments. Data collection utilized the Arch Height Index Measurement System (AHIMS), capturing standing foot length, width, dorsum height, and truncated length, along with Arch Height Index (AHI) in sitting and standing positions. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics and Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Coefficient at a (0.05) significance level to test hypotheses. Descriptive statistics revealed gender differences; for instance, males had a higher mean standing foot width ([8.8187]) but also greater variability, while females showed larger mean standing foot length ([20.2323]) and dorsum height ([20.2323]). Most distributions were non-normal, with high skewness and kurtosis noted in male foot width and length. Correlation analyses indicated no significant linear relationship between standing foot length and width for either gender (male: r=[0.001], p=[0.994]; female: r=[0.045], p=[0.656]). However, a perfect and highly significant correlation was found between standing foot length and dorsum height for both males and females (r=[1.000], p=[0.000]). Lastly, no significant correlation existed for standing truncated length between genders (r=[0.060], p=[0.554]). These findings underscore the necessity of a multi-dimensional, gender-specific approach to shoe last design. The study concludes that footwear for university students must move beyond generic models, incorporating precise anthropometric data to ensure optimal fit, comfort, and support, thereby preventing foot-related issues and enhancing overall well-being.