This paper theoretically discussed and anal,yzed the engineering practice of the application of geotextile filters to the protective works applied mainly by forces of wave and water flow, such as riverside, tide barrier, and apron of sluice , etc. through field investigation. The new design criteria of geotextile filters for protective works have been drawn up. Espe cially, the design index Oeo lOdeo compared with Oao (l-2)deo conventionally used shows a great break.through in the design work, and provides a sci ntific basis for enabling the geotextiles With larger opening size can be popularized.