Skin tribology in sport

This review describes the principles of skin friction and wear for benefit sports scientists, engineers clinicians. Skin exhibits complex behaviour, defying tribological laws dry contact; hence, its characteristics are affected by sliding speed, normal load, contact area. Some seek to increase enhance performance; however, this needs be offset against injury risk given that abrades when slid across a rough hard surface, delaminates smooth chafes or blisters repeatedly rubbed some fabrics. Whilst interactions can both define hinder athlete performance, there exists need better understand biomechanics optimise balance versus reward.