The heat transfer coefficients of the hands are critical inputs of the thermoregulation model that can simulate thermal responses of the hand and fingers. Besides, the hand has a greater surface area to mass ratio and complex anthropometric parameters, thus is extremely important in heat transfer and thermoregulation.

However, the convective heat transfer coefficients of the fingers, palm, and dorsal of the hand are not fully investigated and understood. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for full understanding of the convective heat transfer coefficients in both the whole-hand and regional segments. The results of this study will provide guidance for the thermal model development, cold and burn injuries assessment, and design of high-performance protective gloves.