Exploring the material experience of fungal textiles in orthopaedic garments

Orthopaedic garments improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions, injuries, or in search of preventative support. This study explores the potential application of fungal textile materials to orthopaedic garments for the hand and wrist areas, focusing on identifying key experiential qualities for seven participants. Iterative exploration in creating fungal materials with differential flexibility and cushioning resulted in three distinct material samples, four textural patterns, and three concepts, each showcasing the varied qualities. These outcomes were assessed through semi-structured qualitative interviews, focusing on qualities of fungal textile and user perceptions of their comfort, relevance, and desirability. Participants valued the materials’ natural qualities and potential for varying combinations to suit breathability and temporal needs in their unique use cases, informing further prototyping. By harnessing the unique qualities of fungal textiles, this research proposes how these materials can meet diverse wellness needs while reducing reliance on synthetic and non-renewable materials.