2. Durawork chest panel

1. Chest panel is already released in 2024, design patented in US and korea 

This is released in 2024 and has been selling around 7,000 units over the world.

2. Why I Developed This

I saw a need for a modular panel designed for light, quick tasks. Most options on the market were either too bulky or lacked the flexibility professional workers need.

3. My Development Goals

• Lightweight and Comfort: It had to be something you could wear all day without fatigue.

• Versatility: I believe that excessive features and oversized designs actually hinder the advantages of a chest panel. I applied DURAWORK’s core philosophy: functional minimalism.

4. Premium Materials

I didn't compromise on quality. I chose:

• Cordura 1000D: For extreme durability.

• Fidlock Magnetic Buckles (Germany): For seamless, one-touch operation.

• YKK Zippers: The industry standard for reliability.

5. The Evolution: From Prototype to Product

1st Prototype (Dec 2023): 3 Rows of Webbing I initially thought more webbing meant more convenience, but it only added unnecessary weight. The first and second rows were redundant, and if a pouch was placed on one side, the entire panel would tilt, losing its balance.

• The Lesson: I decided to reduce the webbing and make the panel more compact to ensure it stays centered and light.

2nd Prototype (Mar 2024): 2 Rows + Pockets & Zippers I added a top zipper and pockets to diversify storage. I also condensed the bottom webbing into two sections in the center.

• The Lesson: The combination of zippers and pockets felt redundant and clunky. The zipper was positioned too high for practical use. I decided to remove the zipper but was satisfied with reducing the webbing.

3rd Prototype & Launch (May 2024): The Final Form

• Refined Pockets: I kept only the top pockets but changed their sizes—one for a smartphone and one for pencils—to maximize utility.

• Optimized Webbing: I extended the length of the bottom webbing to allow pouches to slide left and right more comfortably.

6. The Buckle Dilemma: Fidlock vs. Standard

• Fidlock: Incredibly convenient, but expensive (adding about $12 just to the cost).

• Standard: Affordable, but felt "cheap" and lacked the premium touch.

• The Decision: I decided to offer both versions to give customers a choice.

7. Inner Comfort (The Hidden Detail)

• I applied Mesh Fabric to the back to minimize sweat and heat buildup.

• I paid close attention to the zipper placement so it wouldn't touch or irritate the body, making it perfect for holding heat packs or small notebooks.

8. Market Response

The response has been clear: The Fidlock version is overwhelmingly preferred. Professional workers are willing to invest a bit more for the comfort and efficiency it provides. I’m glad I stuck to my intuition regarding the streamlined webbing and asymmetrical pocket design.