Patent Publication Number: US-7721353-B2

Title: Hand covering with a hood and a movement mechanism

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/554,134, entitled “Hand Covering With a Hood and a Movement Mechanism,” filed Mar. 18, 2004. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/577,447, entitled “Hand Covering With a Hood and a Movement Mechanism,” filed Jun. 5, 2004. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   This invention relates generally to a hand covering, and in particular, to a hand covering with a hood and a movement mechanism coupled to the hood to move the same. 
   Conventional hand coverings include a shell with a finger portion that is configured to receive the fingers of a user&#39;s hand. Some conventional hand coverings include a cover that can be disposed so as to cover part of the finger portion of the shell. The cover can be moved away from the finger portion to expose the finger portion. The adjustment of the cover relative to the shell in such conventional hand coverings is difficult. 
   Thus, a need exists for a hand covering that includes a hood that can be easily adjusted by the user. A need also exists for a hand covering with a hood that can be easily retracted while the hand covering is being worn by and used by the user. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   A hand covering comprises a shell and a hood. In one embodiment, the hand covering is a glove. In another embodiment, the hand covering is a mitten. The shell includes a finger portion which may include one or more receptacles for one or more fingers of a user&#39;s hand. The hood of the hand covering is selectively disposable in multiple configurations. In one configuration, the hood can be disposed so that it covers part of the finger portion. In another configuration, the hood can be disposed so that it does not cover the finger portion and the entire finger portion is exposed. 
   In one embodiment, the hand covering includes a movement mechanism. The movement mechanism is coupled to the hood. The movement mechanism can be manipulated to move the hood relative to the shell. The movement mechanism can be manipulated to move the hood from a deployed configuration to a retracted configuration. In a deployed configuration, the hood covers part of the finger portion. In a retracted configuration, the hood does not cover the finger portion. 
   In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes an elongate member. The elongate member can be coupled to the hood. In another embodiment, the elongate member is coupled to the hood and to the shell. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 3  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a movement mechanism according to the invention. 
       FIG. 4  is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a movement mechanism according to the invention. 
       FIG. 5  is a top view of an embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 6  is a bottom view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 5 . 
       FIG. 7  is a top view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 5  in a different configuration. 
       FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  in a first configuration. 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  in a second configuration. 
       FIG. 11  is an exploded perspective view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIGS. 12 and 13  are opposite side views of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  are opposite end views of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 16  is a top view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  in another configuration. 
       FIG. 17  is a top view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  in another configuration. 
       FIG. 18  is a side view of the hood of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 19  is a top view of the hood illustrated in  FIG. 18 . 
       FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional side view of the hood illustrated in  FIG. 19  taken along line “ 20 - 20 ”. 
       FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  taken along line “ 21 - 21 ”. 
       FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 24  is a partial cross-sectional side view of the hood of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  taken along line “ 24 - 24 ”. 
       FIGS. 25-29  are partial cross-sectional side views of some of the components of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 7  in different configurations. 
       FIGS. 30 and 31  are perspective views of alternative embodiments of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIGS. 32-35  are plan views of alternative embodiments of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 36  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 37  is a cross-sectional side view of several components of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 36  taken along line “ 36 - 36 ”. 
       FIG. 38  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 39  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 40  is a cross-sectional side view of several components of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 39  taken along line “ 40 - 40 ”. 
       FIG. 41  is a cross-sectional side view of several components of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIGS. 42-43  are plan views of alternative embodiments of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIGS. 44-45  are plan views of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering in different configurations. 
       FIG. 46  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIGS. 47-48  are plan views of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 49  is a perspective view of the pull guide of the hand covering illustrated in  FIGS. 47-48 . 
       FIG. 50  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 51  is a bottom view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 50 . 
       FIG. 52  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 53  is a cross-sectional side view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 52  taken along line “ 53 - 53 ”. 
       FIG. 54  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering in a first configuration according to the invention. 
       FIG. 55  is a plan view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 54  in a second configuration. 
       FIG. 56  is plan view of some components of the movement mechanism and the suspension mechanism of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 54 . 
       FIG. 57  is a plan view of the components of the movement mechanism and the suspension mechanism illustrated in  FIG. 56  in an alternative embodiment. 
       FIG. 58  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 59  is an exploded perspective view of the hand covering illustrated in  FIG. 58 . 
       FIG. 59A  is a view of an alternative embodiment of an outer layer according to the invention. 
       FIG. 60  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
       FIG. 61  is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   A hand covering comprises a shell and a hood. In one embodiment, the hand covering is a glove. In another embodiment, the hand covering is a mitten. The shell includes a finger portion which may include one or more receptacles for one or more fingers of a user&#39;s hand. The hood of the hand covering is selectively disposable in multiple configurations. In one configuration, the hood can be disposed so that it covers part of the finger portion. In another configuration, the hood can be disposed so that it does not cover the finger portion and the entire finger portion is exposed. 
   In one embodiment, the hand covering includes a movement mechanism. The movement mechanism is coupled to the hood. The movement mechanism can be manipulated to move the hood relative to the shell. The movement mechanism can be manipulated to move the hood from a deployed configuration to a retracted configuration. In a deployed configuration, the hood covers part of the finger portion. In a retracted configuration, the hood does not cover the finger portion. 
   In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes an elongate member. The elongate member can be coupled to the hood. In another embodiment, the elongate member is coupled to the hood and to the shell. 
   Reference is made herein to the “palm side” and “back side” portions of a shell of a hand covering. The references to “palm side” and “back side” are intended to be representative of different sides of the shell. The term “back side” is used to identify the portion of a hand covering that covers the back of a user&#39;s hand inserted therein. The term “palm side” is used to identify the portion of a hand covering that covers the palm of a user&#39;s hand. The “palm side” and “back side” portions can be referred to as the “front side” and “back side” portions, respectively. Alternatively, the back side and the palm side can be referred to as the outside and the inside, respectively, of the hand covering. 
   A functional block diagram of an embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The hand covering  10  includes a shell  12 , a hood  14 , and a movement mechanism  16 . In this embodiment, the hood  14  is coupled to the shell  12 , as represented by the line connecting the two elements. The hood  14  is also coupled to the movement mechanism  16 . The movement mechanism  16  can be manipulated by a user to move the hood  14  relative to the shell  12 . For example, the movement mechanism  16  can be adjusted to retract the hood  14 . 
   The “shell” of a hand covering is any material that has a configuration into which a user can insert a portion of the user&#39;s hand. A shell may include one or more layers of the same or different materials. A shell may include a single material or multiple materials. For example, the hand covering may include an inner layer of material, an intermediate layer of material and an outer layer of material. In one embodiment, the intermediate layer of material can be an insulation type of material. Alternatively, a fluid such as air can be inserted between the inner and outer layers of material. In alternative embodiments, more than three layers of material can be provided. In such an alternative, the hand covering can include multiple intermediate layers. In alternative embodiments, the extent to which a user&#39;s hand is covered by the shell may vary. 
   In one embodiment, a shell includes a finger portion. A finger portion can include one or more receptacles that can receive one or more fingers of a user&#39;s hand. In one embodiment, the finger portion can include a single receptacle for multiple fingers, such as in a mitten. In another embodiment, the finger portion can include multiple receptacles, one for each of the fingers. 
   The term “hood” is intended to encompass a piece of material that can cover a portion of a hand covering. The “hood” can be referred to also as a cover, a protector, etc. A hood can be made of any material, such as a wind-resistant and/or water-resistant material. Examples of hoods are described in greater detail below. 
   In one embodiment, the hood  14  is fixedly coupled to the shell  12  using any conventional coupler or technique, such as sewing, adhesive, connectors, fasteners, etc. Similarly, the movement mechanism  16  is fixedly coupled to the hood  14  using any conventional coupler or technique. The term “fixedly coupled” means that to separate the coupled articles, either the coupler or one of the articles is destroyed. 
   In alternative embodiments, the hood can be removably coupled to the shell. Similarly, the movement mechanism can be removably coupled to the hood. The term “removably coupled” indicates that the coupled articles can be separated without destroying or damaging either of them. Such exemplary couplers or techniques that can be used to removably couple articles include magnets, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, clips, etc. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 2 . The hand covering  20  includes a shell  22 , a hood  24 , and a movement mechanism  26 . In this embodiment, the movement mechanism  26  is coupled to the shell  22  and the hood  24 . The movement mechanism  26  can be manipulated to move the hood  24  relative to the shell  22 . 
   An embodiment of a movement mechanism according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 3 . In this embodiment, the movement mechanism  30  includes a coupling portion  32  and an actuating portion  34 . The coupling portion  32  is coupled, either removably or fixedly, to a hood (not shown in  FIG. 3 ). The actuating portion  34  is coupled to the coupling portion  32  and configured to be moved by a user to impart movement to the hood. As the actuating portion  34  moves, the coupling portion  32  and the hood move relative to the shell of the hand covering. 
   An alternative embodiment of a movement mechanism according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 4 . In this embodiment, the movement mechanism  40  includes a coupling portion  42 , an actuating portion  44 , and a mounting portion  46 . The mounting portion  46  is configured to be coupled to the shell using any conventional techniques. 
   An embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 5 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  100  includes a shell  102  with a finger portion  104 , a distal end  106 , and a proximal end  108 . The proximal end  108  is proximate to the user&#39;s arm when the hand covering  100  is disposed on the user&#39;s hand. The distal end  106  is the opposite end of the hand covering  100  from the proximal end  108 . 
   The shell  102  includes a finger portion  104 , which in this embodiment, includes a thumb receptacle  120  and several finger receptacles  122 . The shell  102  includes side portions  114  and  116 . The shell  102  also includes a palm side surface or portion  110  and a back side surface or portion  112 . 
   The shell can include several different pieces that are coupled together to form the shell. In one embodiment, the shell can be formed by coupling together a front half portion and a back half portion. Alternatively, several different pieces and materials can be used depending on the desired functionality of the hand covering. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , several components of an embodiment of the shell  102  are illustrated. While several different materials and configurations of multiple panels are described with reference to shell  102  of hand covering  100 , any number of panels with different materials and configurations can be coupled together to form the shell in alternative embodiments. 
   Referring to  FIG. 6 , the shell  102  includes a palm panel  124  that forms the palm side portion  110  of the shell  102  and substantially covers the palm side of the user&#39;s hand, including the user&#39;s fingers. In one embodiment, the palm panel  124  is made of a breathable material. The breathability of the material allows the palm of the user&#39;s hand to cool when the user&#39;s fingers are extended. In one embodiment, the palm panel  124  includes multiple holes or openings that enhance the passage of air therethrough. In another embodiment, the palm panel  124  is a moisture-wicking material that can remove moisture or perspiration from the user&#39;s skin. 
   The shell  102  includes a wrist panel  126  that forms the remainder of the palm side portion  110  (see  FIG. 6 ). In one embodiment, the wrist panel  126  is made from a moisture-wicking material. In an alternative embodiment, the wrist panel  126  is made from a wind-resistant material, which may or may not be a breathable material. The wrist panel  126  is coupled to the palm panel  124  along seam  134 . 
   The cuff of the wrist portion of the hand covering  100  extends to the user&#39;s wrist to allow space for the use of electronic devices, such as stop watches and/or heart rate monitors. 
   The shell  102  includes a back panel  130  that forms the back side portion  112  of the shell  102  (see  FIG. 5 ). The back panel  130  extends from the distal end  106  to the proximal end  108  of the shell  102 . In one embodiment, the back panel  130  is made from a moisture-wicking material. In an alternative embodiment, the back panel  130  is made from a wind-resistant material, which may or may not be a breathable material. The back panel  130  is coupled to the palm panel  124  along seam  140 . 
   The shell  102  includes a thumb panel  128  that forms part of the thumb receptacle  120 . In one embodiment, the thumb panel  128  is made of an absorbent material, such as a terry cloth material. The absorbent material can function as a sweat or perspiration wipe. The thumb panel  128  is coupled to the back panel  130  along seam  138  and coupled to the palm panel  124  and wrist panel  126  along seam  136 . The locations of seams  136  and  138  and the configuration of the thumb panel  128  enhance the mobility of the user&#39;s thumb. 
   The shell  102  includes an outer layer or panel  190  that forms a receptacle  150  with the outer surface of the back panel  130  and back side portion  112  of the shell  102 . The outer panel  190  is made of an absorbent material, such as a terry cloth material. The absorbent material can function as a sweat or perspiration wipe with which the user can wipe a forehead or other part of the body. The outer panel  190  is coupled to the thumb panel  128  at seam  138 . The outer panel  190  includes an end  148  that has a protective binding or piping  152  disposed thereon to reduce wear and fraying of the end  148 . Binding  152  can be any material, including a reflective material. 
   The outer panel  190 , back panel  130 , thumb panel  128 , and wrist panel  126  extend to the proximal end  108  of the shell  102 . A binding  142  is disposed around the ends of the panels  190 ,  130 ,  128  and  126  and coupled thereto using stitching  146 . In other embodiments, the ends of the panels  190 ,  130 ,  128 , and  126  can be coupled together using any conventional device or technique, such as welding or an adhesive. 
   In one embodiment, each of the panels of the shell is cut or trimmed to a particular configuration and then the panels are sewn together. Other coupling devices and techniques can be used to couple the panels together. In alternative embodiments, the panels are welded together by heating the material of each panel, such as by ultrasonically welding the panels together. The panels can be coupled together in any order. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  100  includes a hood  160 . The hood  160  is selectively disposable in different configurations with respect to the shell  102 . The hood  160  is disposable in a deployed configuration  162  in which the hood  160  covers part of the finger portion  104 . The hood  160  is also disposable in another configuration in which the hood  160  does not cover the finger portion  104  (see  FIGS. 5 and 6  for reference in which the hood is in the receptacle  150 ). The hood  160  can be disposed in any configuration therebetween as well. 
   The hood  160  is made of a lightweight wind-resistant material that provides protection to the exposed area of the back of the hand covering. The hood  160  protects fingers and fingertips from a very low wind chill. The hood  160  also keeps the heat within key heat loss areas, such as the back of the user&#39;s hand and the fingertips. As the user&#39;s hand temperature increases, the hood  160  can be pulled back and stored in the receptacle. 
   Referring to  FIG. 7 , the hand covering  100  includes a movement mechanism  200 . In this embodiment, the movement mechanism  200  includes an elongate member  210  that is coupled to the shell  102  and to the hood  160 . The hood  160  can be retracted or moved from its configuration illustrated in  FIG. 7  by pulling on the elongate member  210 , as described in detail below. 
   The elongate member  210  has ends  212  and  214 . The elongate member  210  also includes an actuating portion  216  that is disposed between ends  212  and  214 . End  212  is coupled to the shell  102 . In this embodiment, end  212  is disposed within an interior  147  of the binding  142  and coupled to the panels (see  FIG. 21 ). End  214  is coupled to the hood  160  using any conventional device or technique. For example, the end  214  can be sewn to a fabric tab that is attached to the hood. Alternatively, the end  214  can be coupled directly to the hood. 
   Any material and size of elongate member can be used. In one embodiment, the elongate member is a nylon cord with a diameter of 2 millimeters. 
   The layer  190  includes an opening  199  located proximate to the proximate end  108  of the shell  102 . The opening  199  is configured to receive the elongate member  210  as illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
   In one embodiment, the hand covering  100  can include one or more guides that guide the path and movement of the elongate member. For example, guide  220  can be coupled to an inner surface of the hood  160 . Guide  220  can include mounting portions  222  and  224  that are coupled to the hood  160 , such as by sewing or an adhesive. Guide  220  includes a channel portion  226  through which the elongate member  210  passes. In alternative embodiments, multiple guides can be located on the inner surface of the hood. 
   A palm side view of the hand covering  100  is illustrated in  FIG. 8 . The hood  160  includes a covering portion  172  with an end  174 . The covering portion  172  is sized so that the hood  160  covers part of the finger receptacles  122  when the hood  160  is in its deployed configuration  162 . The covering portion  172  includes side portions  178  and  180  and a central portion  182 . The end  174  of the hood  160  is folded over and sewn along seam  176 . 
   The configuration of the end  174  can vary in different embodiments. In one embodiment, side portion  178  extends toward the proximal end  108  of the shell  102  so that the user can insert the thumb receptacle  120  beneath side portion  178  to disengage the finger receptacles  122  from the hood  160 . The end  174  along the central portion  182  is curved toward the distal end  106  of the shell  102 . The end  174  can be located closer to the distal end  106  than the seats of the finger receptacles  122 , thereby facilitating the curling of the finger portion  104  and the hood  160  when the user closes the user&#39;s hand because of less material in that region. In another embodiment, the end  174  can extend closer to the proximal end  108  of the shell  102 . 
   Perspective views of the hand covering  100  in different configurations are illustrated in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . In  FIG. 9 , the hood  160  of the hand covering  100  is disposed in receptacle  150 . In this location, the hood  160  is in its retracted configuration. In  FIG. 10 , the hood  160  of the hand covering  100  is disposed in its deployed configuration  162  in which it covers the finger portion  104 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 11 , an exploded perspective view of the hand covering  100  is illustrated. The outer layer  190  includes a distal end  192 , a proximal end  194 , and side portions  196  and  197 . The hood  160  includes a coupling portion  168  that is coupled to the shell  102 . The coupling portion  168  is disposed proximate to an end  170 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , side views of the hand covering  100  are illustrated. The shell  102  has a palm side portion  110  and a back side portion  112 . The hood  160  is illustrated in its deployed configuration  162  in which the covering portion  172  covers the finger portion  104 . The hood  160  includes portions  184  and  185  that are coupled together along seam  186 . In one embodiment, portions  184  and  185  can be sewn together. 
   A distal end view of the hand covering  100  is illustrated in  FIG. 14 . As illustrated, the hood  160  of the hand covering  100  extends around the finger receptacles  122 . In this embodiment, the hood  160  does not cover the thumb receptacle  120 . 
   A proximal end view of the hand covering  100  is illustrated in  FIG. 15 . The hand covering  100  includes a shell  102  that has an inner surface  154  that defines an interior region  156  into which a user can insert a hand. The relative positions of end  212  of the elongate member  210  and the opening  199  of outer panel  190  are shown. 
   Referring to  FIG. 16 , the hood  160  of the hand covering  100  is illustrated in a partially retracted configuration. Once the hood  160  is disengaged from the finger receptacles  122 , the hood  160  can be moved toward the proximal end  108  by pulling the elongate member  210  along the direction of arrow A. As the hood  160  is pulled to a partially retracted configuration  164 , a portion of the hood  160  moves into the receptacle  150 . As the hood  160  moves, a larger amount of the back side portion  112  of the hand covering  100  is exposed. 
   Referring to  FIG. 17 , the hood  160  of the hand covering  100  is illustrated in a fully retracted configuration  166 . When a user continues to pull on the elongate member  210  along the direction of arrow B, the hood  160  is pulled into the receptacle  150  into its retracted configuration  166 . 
   The hood  160  is illustrated in more detail in  FIGS. 18-20 . In this embodiment, the hood  160  includes a coupling portion  168  proximate to end  170  and a covering portion  172  that has an end  174 . As previously described, the extent to which the covering portion  172  of the hood  160  covers the finger receptacles  122  can vary. In one embodiment, the end  174  extends toward end  170  sufficiently so that the covering portion  172  covers the entire length of the finger receptacles  122 . While hood  160  is illustrated as comprising two portions, one or more portions can be used and/or coupled together to form the hood in alternative embodiments. 
   Referring to  FIG. 20 , the hood  160  includes an inner surface  187  that defines an interior region  188 . The inner surface  187  and interior region  188  can have any configuration that can accommodate the finger receptacles  122  of the hand covering  100 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 21 , a partial cross-sectional view of some of the components of hand covering  100  is illustrated. This cross-sectional view is taken along the line “ 21 - 21 ” in  FIG. 7 . As shown, the shell  102  has a palm side portion  110  and a back side portion  112 . The outer layer  190  forms a receptacle  150  with the back side portion  112  to receive the hood  160 . A portion of the hood  160  is disposed in and coupled within the receptacle  150  such as by sewing. For example, the coupling portion  168  of the hood  160  is coupled to the shell  102 . The hood  160  can be coupled along the proximal end of the hand covering  100  as shown. The hood  160  can also be coupled to the shell  102  along the sides  196  and  197  of the outer layer  190  (see  FIG. 11 ). The hood  160  can be included in the seams  138  and  140  along sides  196  and  197 . In an alternative embodiment, the hood  160  can be coupled along a portion of the sides  196  and  197  and not to the distal end  192 . Such an arrangement allows more of the hood  160  along its sides to be retracted into the receptacle. 
   As shown, the elongate member  210  has ends  212  and  214 . End  212  is disposed within the interior  147  of the binding  142  and the binding  142  is coupled to the shell  102 . In other embodiments, the end  212  can be coupled to any location on the distal end of the shell  102 . End  214  is coupled to the inner surface  187  of the hood  160 . As a user pulls on the elongate member  210  along the direction of arrow C (see  FIG. 21 ), the end  214  of the elongate member  210  and the hood  160  move in the same direction and the hood  160  is drawn into the receptacle  150 . 
   The outer layer  190  includes an opening  199  formed therethrough. Opening  199  can have any size or configuration so long as the elongate member  210  can be inserted through the opening  199 . Elongate member  210  can be inserted through opening  199  after the shell  102  is assembled. While opening  199  is illustrated proximate to the proximal end  108  of the hand covering  100 , the opening can be located at any location on the outer layer or other part of the shell in alternative embodiments. 
   Referring to  FIG. 22 , an alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, the hand covering  320  includes a shell  322  with a palm side portion  324  and a back side portion  326 . The shell  322  includes an interior region  328 . An outer layer  340  is disposed proximate to the back side portion  324  of the shell  322 . The layer  340  and the back side portion  324  form a receptacle  342  therebetween. The outer layer  340  is coupled to the shell  322  at coupling region  344  using any conventional mechanism or technique. 
   The hand covering  320  includes a hood  350 , a portion of which is disposed in the receptacle  342 . The hood  350  has a coupling end  354  and a covering portion  352 . The coupling end  354  is coupled to the shell  322 . The hood  350  has an inner surface  356  that defines the interior region of the hood  350 . 
   The hand covering  320  includes an elongate member  360  that has an end  362  coupled to the shell  322  and an opposite end  366  that is coupled to the inner surface  356  of the hood  350 . Disposed between ends  362  and  366  is an actuating portion  364 . As a user pulls on the actuating portion  364  along the direction of arrow D, end  366  of the elongate member  360  and the hood  350  are pulled along the same direction. 
   In this embodiment, the back side portion  326  of the shell  322  includes an opening  330  formed therein. The shell  322  includes an insert  332 , such as a grommet, with a passageway  334  disposed in the opening  330 . The elongate member  360  is inserted through the opening  330  and the passageway  334  as illustrated in  FIG. 22 . In this arrangement, a portion of the elongate member  360  is disposed in the interior of the shell  322 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 23 . In particular, a partial cross-sectional view of some of the components of a hand covering  300  is shown. The hand covering  300  includes a shell  302  and an outer layer  304  that define a receptacle  306  therebetween. The outer layer  304  and shell  302  are coupled together at coupling region  308 . The coupling can be achieved using any conventional coupling mechanism or technique. 
     FIG. 24  illustrates a cross-sectional side view of some of the components of a hood and a movement mechanism. In this embodiment, the hood  160  includes a covering portion  172  and an inner surface  187 . An elongate member  210  is coupled to the inner surface  187  of the hood  160 . A guide  220  is coupled to the inner surface  187  of the hood  160 . The guide  220  includes a body or channel portion  226  that defines an opening or passageway therethrough. The guide  220  includes mounting portions  222  and  224  (only one shown in this view) on both sides of the body  226 . The mounting portions  222  and  224  are coupled to the inner surface  187  of the hood  160  using any conventional technique or method. The passageway is configured to slidably receive a portion of the elongate member  210 . 
   In one embodiment, multiple guides can be coupled to the inner surface of the hood. In an alternative embodiment, a guide may include a single mounting portion. In other embodiments, the guide can have any configuration, such as a U-shaped configuration, and can be formed from a piece of material that is coupled to the inner surface of the hood. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 25-29 , an exemplary process of adjusting a hood is illustrated. In each Figure, only portions of the shell, the hood, and the elongate member are illustrated for simplicity and ease of illustration. 
   Referring to  FIG. 25 , the hand covering  100  includes a finger portion  104  and a hood  160 . The hood  160  is illustrated in its deployed configuration  162  in which the hood  160  covers part of the finger portion  104 . The hand covering  100  also includes an elongate member  210  that is coupled to an inner surface  187  of the hood  160 . In this configuration, the user can curl the finger receptacles toward the user&#39;s palm close the user&#39;s hand and keep the user&#39;s fingers warm. When user&#39;s fingers are extended and the finger portion  104  straightens as shown in  FIG. 25 , the palm region of the shell  102  is exposed and not covered. 
   Turning to  FIG. 26 , the user disengages the finger receptacles  122  from the hood  160  and curls the user&#39;s fingers along the direction of arrow E. Such movement removes the finger portion  104  from the hood  160 . The hood  160  remains in its deployed configuration  162 . One technique to remove the finger receptacles  122  from the hood  160  is to insert the thumb receptacle  120  inside the side portion  178  of the hood  160  and to lift outwardly on the side portion  178 . Such movement creates clearance for the removal of the finger portion  104 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 27 , the user keeps the finger portion  104  curled and pulls on the elongate member  210  along the direction of arrow F, thereby moving the hood  160  to a partially retracted configuration  164 . In an alternative embodiment, the user can pull on the elongate member  210  as the finger portion  104  is extended provided that the finger portion  104  is disengaged from the hood  160 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 28 , the user continues to pull on the elongate member  210  along the direction of arrow G, thereby continuing to move the hood  160  toward the proximal end  108  of the hand covering  100 . The user can keep the finger portion  104  in a curled configuration or in an extended configuration. 
   Referring to  FIG. 29 , the outer layer  190  and the receptacle  150  of the hand covering  100  are illustrated. The elongate member  210  has been pulled so that the hood  160  is in a fully retracted configuration  166  in which the hood  160  is disposed within the receptacle  150 . In this configuration, the finger portion  104  is not covered at all by the hood  160 . Such configuration allows the user&#39;s fingers to be exposed and cooled. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 30 . Hand covering  400  includes a shell  402  that has a finger portion  404  and an outer surface  406 . The finger portion  404  is a single receptacle for the user&#39;s fingers, similar to that of a mitten. 
   Hand covering  400  includes a receptacle  408  disposed on the outer surface  406 . In this embodiment, receptacle  408  only extends along a portion of the outer surface  406 , which in this example is the back side surface of the shell  402 . The receptacle  408  does not extend between the sides of the shell  402  and does not extend to the proximal end of the shell  402 . A hood (not shown) can be pulled from the receptacle  408  to a deployed configuration in which it covers the finger portion. 404  of the shell  402 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 31 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  500  includes a shell  502  with a finger portion  504  with finger receptacles and a thumb receptacle. The shell  502  has an outer surface  506  that has a receptacle  508  coupled thereto. The receptacle  508  does not extend between the sides of the shell  502  and does not extend to the proximal end of the shell  502 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 32 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  600  includes a shell  602  with a finger portion  604 . The hand covering  600  includes an outer layer  610  coupled to the shell  602 . The hand covering  600  also includes a hood  620  that is selectively disposable in different configurations in which the hood  620  covers a finger portion  604  of the shell  602  or is retracted into a receptacle formed between the outer layer  610  and the shell  602 . 
   The hand covering  600  has a movement mechanism  630  that includes an elongate member  632  with ends  634  and  636 . End  636  is coupled to a portion of the hood  620 . In this embodiment, end  634  is not coupled to the shell  602  and extends from the hand covering  600 . 
   The elongate member  632  can be inserted through a portion of the outer layer  610  and/or a portion of the shell  602  of the hand covering  600 . When a user pulls on the elongate member  632  along the direction of arrow I, the hood  620  moves from its deployed configuration to a partially or fully retracted configuration. The elongate member  632  can be extended, as shown by extension  638  in dashed lines, and coupled proximate to the proximal end of the shell  602 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 33 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  700  includes a shell  702  that has a finger portion  704 . The shell  702  includes an outer layer  710  coupled to the shell  702 . The hand covering  700  includes a hood  720  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  700  includes multiple movement mechanisms  730  and  740  coupled to the hood  720 . Movement mechanism  730  includes an elongate member  732  with ends  734  and  736 . End  736  is coupled to a portion of the hood  720 . In this embodiment, end  734  is not coupled to the shell  702  and extends from the hand covering  700 . Movement mechanism  740  includes an elongate member  742  with ends  744  and  746 . End  746  is coupled to a portion of the hood  720 . In this embodiment, end  744  is not coupled to the shell  702  and extends from the hand covering  700 . 
   The elongate members  732  and  742  can be inserted through a portion of the outer layer  710  and/or a portion of the shell  702  of the hand covering  700 . When a user pulls on the elongate member  732  and  742  along the direction of arrow J, the hood  720  is moved from its deployed configuration to a partially or fully retracted configuration. 
   In an alternative embodiment, either one or both of the ends  734  and  744  of the elongate members  732  and  742  can be coupled to a portion of the shell  702  or layer  710 , as shown by extensions  738  and  748 , respectively, which are illustrated in dashed lines. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 34 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  800  includes a shell  802  with a finger portion  804 . The hand covering  800  includes an outer layer  810  coupled to the shell  802 . The hand covering  800  includes a hood  820  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  800  includes a movement mechanism  830  that has an elongate member  832  with an end  834 . The elongate member  832  includes a first elongate member portion  840  and a second elongate member portion  850 . Portions  840  and  850  are coupled to the hood  820  at ends  842  and  852 , respectively. 
   The elongate member  832  can be inserted through a portion of the outer layer  810  and/or a portion of the shell  802  of the hand covering  800 . When a user pulls on the elongate member  832  along the direction of arrow K, the hood  820  is moved from its deployed configuration to a partially or fully retracted configuration. The elongate member  832  can be extended, as shown by extension  836  in dashed lines, and coupled proximate to the proximal end of the shell  802 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 35 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  860  includes a shell  862  and an outer layer  864  coupled to the shell  862 . The hand covering  860  includes a hood  870  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  860  has a movement mechanism  880  that includes an elongate member  882  with ends  884  and  886 . End  886  is coupled to a portion of the hood  870  and end  884  is coupled to the shell  862 . Several guides  890  and  892  are coupled to an inner surface of the hood  870 . Guides  890  and  892  define the path of the elongate member  882 . 
   The elongate member  882  can be inserted through a portion of the outer layer  864  and/or a portion of the shell  862  of the hand covering  860 . When a user pulls on the elongate member  882  along the direction of arrow L, the hood  870  moves from its deployed configuration to a partially or fully retracted configuration. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 36 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  900  includes a shell  902  and an outer layer  910  coupled to the shell  902 . The hand covering  900  includes a hood  920  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  900  includes a movement mechanism  930  that has an elongate member  932  with ends  934  and  936 . End  936  is coupled to a portion of the hood  920 . In this embodiment, end  934  is coupled to a positioner  940  that is movably coupled to a guide  950 . Positioner  940  can be any sliding mechanism, such as a non-opening zipper, that can be moved and retained in a particular position relative to the shell  902 . The positioner  940  is disposed on the guide  950 , such as a zipper track or a rail that is coupled to the hand covering  900 . In this embodiment, the positioner  940  and guide  950  are disposed on the outer layer  910 . When a user moves or slides the positioner  940  along the direction of arrow M, the elongate member  932  moves in the same direction and the hood  920  moves from the illustrated deployed configuration to a partially or fully retracted configuration. 
   When the user wants to cover the finger portion of the shell  902  with the hood  920 , the user pulls on the hood  920  along the direction of arrow N, thereby moving positioner  940  along guide  950  in the same direction. The elongate member  932  can be inserted through a portion of the layer  910  and/or a portion of the shell  902  of the hand covering  900 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 37 , a cross-sectional side view of the some of the components of the hand covering  900  is illustrated. The hand covering  900  can include a retaining mechanism or release  960 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 37 , outer layer  910  includes a slot  912  formed therein that receives a portion of the positioner  940 . The positioner  940  includes a coupler  942  and a retainer  944  with a hook portion  946 . End  934  of the elongate member  932  is connected to the coupler  942 , which can have any size or configuration. The retainer  944  can be located at any location on the positioner  940  provided that it can engage the retaining mechanism  960 . 
   The retaining mechanism  960  includes a body  962  that has an actuator  964 , a latch  966  and a biasing mechanism  968 , which in one embodiment, is a coil spring. When the positioner  940  is moved along the direction of arrow M, the hook portion  946  on the positioner  940  engages and is retained by the latch  966 . When the actuator  964  is moved along the direction of arrow O against the force of the biasing mechanism  968 , the latch  966  moves along the same direction and releases the hook portion  946  of the positioner  940 . Biasing mechanism  968  provides force along the direction of arrow P to the retaining mechanism  960 . 
   In one embodiment, the hand covering  900  can include a launching mechanism  951 . The launching mechanism  951  can be used to move the positioner  940  toward the distal end of the hand covering  900 . An exemplary launching mechanism is illustrated in  FIG. 37 . In this embodiment, the launching mechanism  951  includes an extension  952  and a biasing mechanism  954 . 
   When the actuator  960  is moved along arrow O and the hook portion  946  disengages from the latch  966 , the biasing mechanism  954  pushes the positioner  940  along the direction of arrow N. Any movement of the positioner  940 , and therefore the elongate member  932  and the hood  920 , in the direction of arrow N (which is toward the proximal end of the hand covering  900 ), moves the hood  920  out of the receptacle and facilitates the moving of the hood  920  by the user to its deployed configuration. 
   In alternative embodiments, other configurations of launching mechanisms can be used to move the positioner relative to the shell. In alternative embodiments, the positioner and the retaining mechanism of the hand covering can have any size or configuration. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 38 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  970  includes a shell  972  with an outer layer  974  coupled thereto to form a receptacle therebetween. The hand covering  970  includes a hood  976  and a movement mechanism  980  coupled to the hood  976 . The movement mechanism  980  includes an elongate member  982  that has ends  984  and  986 . 
   The hand covering  970  includes an actuator  990  that is coupled to the shell  972 . End  984  of the elongate member  982  is operably coupled to the actuator  990 . End  986  of the elongate member  982  is coupled to the hood  976 . Actuator  990  is a mechanism that has a component that can be moved along the direction of arrow Q to pull on the end  984  and move the elongate member  982  along the direction of arrow R to retract the hood  976 . For example, the actuator  990  can be a rotating wheel, pulley or disk, or a ratchet mechanism with teeth. The moving component or components of the actuator  990  can be moved along the direction of arrow S to enable the elongate member  982  to be moved along the direction of arrow T. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIGS. 39-41 . Referring to  FIG. 39 , the hand covering  1000  includes a shell  1002  with a finger portion  1004 . Coupled to the shell  1002  is an outer layer  1010  that forms a receptacle with the outer surface of the shell  1002 . The layer  1010  includes an outer surface  1012  (see  FIG. 40 ). 
   The hand covering  1000  includes an elongate member  1030  that is coupled to the shell  1002  and a hood, which is not shown and in this configuration is disposed in the receptacle of the hand covering  1000 . The elongate member  1030  is inserted through an opening in the outer layer  1010  and/or the shell  1002  and is coupled to the hood. The elongate member  1030  can be disposed in multiple positions  1032  and  1034 . 
   The hand covering  1000  includes a coupler or retainer  1020 . In one embodiment, the retainer  1020  is coupled to the outer surface  1012  of the outer layer  1010 . Referring to  FIG. 40 , a cross-sectional side view of the retainer  1020  is illustrated. Retainer  1020  includes a base  1022  with an outer portion  1024  and an opening or channel  1026 . The channel  1026  is configured to receive a portion of the elongate member  1030 . 
   After the elongate member  1030  is pulled to retract the hood into the receptacle, the elongate member  1030  is in its extended position  1032 . The elongate member  1030  can be moved to a retained position  1034  in which it engages the retainer  1020 . In this position  1034 , the elongate member  1030  does not flop or move around while the user wears the hand covering  1000 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a retainer is illustrated in  FIG. 41 . A cross-sectional side view of some components of a hand covering, particularly the retainer, is shown. The retainer  1040  includes a base  1042  with coupling portions  1044  and  1046  that define openings or channels  1048  and  1050 . The elongate member can be disposed in opening  1048  (see deployed position  1052 ) when the hood is in its deployed configuration which increases the amount of the elongate member that extends from the hand covering. The elongate member can be disposed in opening  1050  (see retracted position  1054 ) when the hood is in a retracted configuration which increases the amount of the elongate member that extends from the hand covering causing the elongate member to extend closer to the distal end of the hand covering. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 42 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1100  includes a shell  1102  with a finger portion  1104 . The hand covering  1100  includes an outer layer  1106  that forms a receptacle  1108  with the back portion of the shell  1102 . The outer layer  1106  includes an outer surface  1110 . 
   The hand covering  1100  includes a coupler  1112  attached thereto. In  FIG. 42 , coupler  1112  is attached to the outer surface  1110  of outer layer  1106 . In alternative embodiments, the coupler  1112  can be attached to any component of the hand covering  1100  at any location. 
   The hand covering  1100  includes an elongate member  1120  that is coupled to a hood, which in this configuration is located in the receptacle  1108  and is not shown. To reduce the movement of the elongate member  1120  during use of the hand covering  1100 , the elongate member  1120  can include a coupler  1122 . Coupler  1122  can be formed separately from and mounted to the elongate member  1120 . Alternatively, coupler  1122  can be integrally formed with the elongate member  1120 . 
   Couplers  1112  and  1122  cooperate with each other to retain the elongate member  1120  in a particular position relative to the remainder of the hand covering  1100 . Couplers  1112  and  1122  can be any type of coupler or fastener that removably couples the elongate member  1120  to the shell  1102 . In one embodiment, couplers  1112  and  1122  can be mating hook and loop fasteners. In another embodiment, couplers  1112  and  1122  can be magnets. In another embodiment, couplers  1112  and  1122  can be cooperating clips, hooks or other retaining devices. In an alternative embodiment, couplers can be provided on the hand covering and on the elongate member even if the elongate member is coupled only to the hood. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 43 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1200  includes a shell  1202  with a finger portion  1204 . The hand covering  1200  includes an outer layer  1206  that forms a receptacle with the back portion of the shell  1202 . The hand covering  1200  also includes a hood  1210  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  1200  has a movement mechanism that includes an elongate member  1220  with ends  1222  and  1224 . End  1224  is coupled to the hood  1210 . End  1222  can extend from the shell  1202  as shown, or alternatively, can be coupled to the shell  1202 . 
   In this embodiment, the hand covering  1200  has a suspension mechanism  1230  that includes an elastic member  1232 . The elastic member  1232  has ends  1234  and  1236  and elastic properties so that it can be stretched and return to its original configuration. For example, the elastic member  1232  can be a “bungee” like cord. End  1234  of the elastic member  1232  is coupled to the shell  1202 . End  1236  of the elastic member  1232  is coupled to the elongate member  1220 . The elastic member  1232  has greater elastic properties than the elongate member  1220  and therefore imparts movement to the elongate member  1220  when released. 
   When the user pulls on the elongate member  1220  along the direction of arrow U, the elongate member  1220  moves to an extended position  1228  and the elastic member  1232  moves to an extended position  1238 . When the user releases the elongate member  1220 , the elastic member  1232  retracts to a retracted position  1237 , thereby moving the elongate member  1220  closer to the shell  1202  to a retracted position  1227 . 
   The extent to which the elastic member  1232  retracts and thereby pulls the elongate member  1220  closer to the shell  1202  is determined by the length of the elastic member  1232  and the location at which the elastic member  1232  is coupled to the shell  1202 . In one embodiment, the elastic member  1232  is coupled to either the outer layer  1206  or back side portion of the shell  1202 . The elastic member  1232  can be sized or configured such that in its retracted or unbiased configuration, end  1236  is disposed proximate to the proximal end of the hand covering  1200 . In another embodiment, the elastic member can be coupled to an outer surface on the hand covering. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIGS. 44-45 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1250  includes a shell  1252  with a finger portion  1253  (see  FIG. 45 ). The hand covering  1250  includes an outer layer  1254  that forms a receptacle with the back portion of the shell  1252 . The outer layer  1254  includes an opening in which an insert  1256 , such as a grommet, is disposed. The grommet  1256  can have any size or configuration and includes an opening  1258  that allows the insertion and passage of members identified below. The hand covering  1250  also includes a hood  1255  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   The hand covering  1250  has a movement mechanism  1260  that includes an elongate member  1262  with ends  1264  and  1266 . End  1266  is coupled to the hood  1255  and end  1264  is coupled to a pull tab  1280 . 
   The hand covering  1250  has a suspension mechanism  1270  that includes an elastic member  1272 . The elastic member  1272  has ends  1274  and  1276  and elastic properties so that it can be stretched and return to its original configuration. End  1276  of the elastic member  1272  is coupled to the shell  1252  and end  1274  is coupled to the pull tab  1280 . In one embodiment, the end  1276  is coupled to the inner surface of layer  1254  or another part of the shell. 
     FIG. 44  illustrates the elongate member  1262  in a retracted position  1267  that corresponds with the hood  1255  being in its deployed configuration. After the user has released the pull tab  1280 , the elastic member  1272  retracts to its unbiased position  1277 , which causes the pull tab  1280  to be moved proximate to the grommet  1256 . In these positions, the amounts of the elongate member  1262  and the elastic member  1272  that extend outwardly from the hand covering  1250  are reduced. 
     FIG. 45  illustrates the elongate member  1262  in an extended position  1268  which corresponds to the position to which a user is pulling on the elongate member  1262  via the pull tab  1280 . When the user pulls on the pull tab  1280 , the elastic member  1272  is stretched to its extended position  1278  as shown. When the user releases the pull tab  1280 , the elongate member  1262  and the elastic member  1272  return to their retracted positions  1267  and  1277 , respectively, as illustrated in  FIG. 44 . The extent to which the elastic member  1272  retracts and pulls the end  1264  of the elongate member  1262  toward the shell  1252  is determined by the length of the elastic member  1272  and the location at which the elastic member  1272  is coupled to the shell  1252 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 46 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1300  includes a shell  1302  with a finger portion  1304  and an outer surface  1306 . The hand covering  1300  includes a receptacle  1310  coupled to the shell  1302 . In one embodiment, the receptacle  1310  is coupled to the outer surface  1306 . 
   The hand covering  1300  includes a hood  1320  that is selectively disposable relative to the shell  1302 . The hand covering  1300  includes a movement mechanism  1330  that has an elongate member  1332  that is coupled to the hood  1320 . In this embodiment, the hood  1320  is configured to cover the finger receptacles and the thumb receptacle of the shell  1302 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIGS. 47-49 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1400  includes a shell  1402  with a finger portion  1404  and an outer layer  1406 . The outer layer  1406  is coupled to a portion of the shell  1402  and forms a receptacle  1408 . 
   The hand covering  1400  includes a hood  1410  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. For example, the hood  1410  can be disposed in a deployed configuration  1412  (see  FIG. 47 ) and in a retracted configuration  1414  (see  FIG. 48 ). 
   The hand covering  1400  includes a movement mechanism  1420  that has an elongate member  1422  that can be manipulated by the user to move the hood  1410 . In this embodiment, a pull guide  1430  is provided on the elongate member  1422 . 
   An embodiment of the pull guide is illustrated in  FIG. 49 . Pull guide  1430  includes a body portion with an opening or passageway  1432  therethrough. The passageway  1432  is configured to slide along the elongate member  1422 . Referring to  FIG. 47 , the pull guide  1430  is shown in a first position along elongate member  1422  that is a distance V from the shell  1402 . When the user pulls on the pull guide  1430  along the direction of arrow W (see  FIG. 48 ) to retract the hood  1410 , the pull guide  1430  moves along the elongate member  1422  along the direction X. As the user pulls, the pull guide  1430  moves to a distance Y from the shell  1402 . As the user pulls on the pull guide  1430 , the movement of the pull guide  1430  facilitates the retraction of the hood  1410 . As the user pulls on the pull guide  1430 , the pull guide  1430  remains approximately at the mid-point of the length of the elongate member  1422  that is disposed outside of the shell  1402 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 50 and 51 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1500  includes a shell  1502  with a finger portion  1504  and a thumb receptacle  1506 . The shell  1502  includes a back side portion  1510  and a palm side portion  1512 . In this embodiment, the palm side surface  1512  includes an opening  1514  formed therein. The size and location of the opening  1514  can vary provided that the opening  1514  is on the palm side portion  1512 . The shell  1502  also includes side portions  1516  and  1518 . 
   The hand covering  1500  includes an outer layer  1520  that forms a receptacle  1522  with a portion of the shell  1502 . The hand covering  1500  includes an elongate member  1530  that has ends  1532  and  1534  and an actuating portion  1536  proximate to end  1534 . The actuating portion  1536  includes an opening  1538  formed therein that is configured to receive a portion of a finger or thumb receptacle to allow the user to pull on the elongate member  1530 . The hand covering  1500  also includes a hood  1550  that has side portions  1552  and  1554 . A portion of the hood  1550  is disposed in the receptacle  1522 . End  1532  of the elongate member  1530  is coupled to the hood  1550 . 
   The hand covering  1500  includes guides  1540  and  1542  that are disposed on the shell  1502  and that direct the elongate member  1530  around the hand covering  1500 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 50 and 51 , the elongate member  1530  extends from the distal tip of the back side portion around the thumb receptacle  1506  and exits the shell on the palm side portion. 
   To retract the hood  1550 , the user inserts the thumb receptacle  1506  inside of side portion  1552  and disengages the finger portion of the shell  1502  from the hood  1550 . The user can insert one of the finger or thumb receptacles into the opening  1538  formed in the elongate member  1530  and pull the actuating portion  1536  of the elongate member  1530  along the direction of arrow Z 1 . Such movement causes the elongate member to move along the directions of arrows Z 2 , Z 3  and Z 4 , thereby pulling the hood into the receptacle  1522 . 
   The opening  1538  can be configured so that a user can slip the actuating portion  1536  off of the finger or thumb receptacle after the hood  1550  has been retracted into the receptacle  1522 . A coupler (not shown) can be provided on one or both of the shell and the elongate member to couple the elongate member to the shell and reduce the relative movement of the two elements. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIGS. 52 and 53 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1600  includes a shell  1602  with a finger portion  1604  and an interior region  1605  (see  FIG. 53 ). The hand covering  1600  includes an outer layer  1606  that is coupled to the shell  1602 . The outer layer  1606  and the shell  1602  define a receptacle  1608  therebetween (see  FIG. 53 ). The hand covering  1600  also includes a hood  1610  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. The hood has an outer surface  1612  and an inner surface  1614 . 
   The hand covering  1600  includes a movement mechanism  1630  that has an elongate member  1640  with ends  1642  and  1644 . The elongate member  1640  extends outwardly from the hand covering  1600  so a user can grasp the end  1642  of the elongate member  1640  and pull it along the direction of arrow AA. 
   In this embodiment, the hand covering  1600  includes a grommet  1650  that is inserted through and coupled to the outer layer  1606  and the hood  1610 . The grommet  1650  has an opening  1652  through which the elongate member  1640  is inserted. In alternative embodiments, the elongate member  1640  can be inserted through any portion of the hand covering  1600  as previously described. 
   A tether or tab  1632  is coupled to end  1642  of the elongate member  1640 . Tab  1632  provides a larger gripping area for the user to pull the elongate member  1640 . As illustrated in  FIG. 52 , the other end  1644  of the elongate member  1640  is connected to a coupler  1620 . Coupler  1620  can be any type of material, such as a fabric. Coupler  1620  is coupled to the inner surface  1614  of the hood  1610  using any conventional technique, including sewing or an adhesive. In alternative embodiments, coupler can have any shape or configuration. 
   Referring to  FIG. 53 , several components of the hand covering  1600  are illustrated. Coupler  1620  is coupled to the inner surface  1614  of the hood  1610 . In this embodiment, coupler  1620  is coupled to the hood  1610  at a location that is spaced inwardly from the perimeter of the hand covering  1600 . Disposing the coupler  1620  toward the proximal end of the hand covering  1600  shortens the length that the elongate member  1640  must be to pull the hood  1610  into the receptacle  1608 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIGS. 54-57 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1700  includes a shell  1702  with a finger portion  1704 . The hand covering  1700  includes an outer layer  1706  that is coupled to the shell  1702 . The hand covering  1700  includes a hood  1710  that is selectively disposable in different configurations. 
   In this embodiment, the hand covering  1700  includes a coupler  1720  that is coupled to the hood  1710 . In alternative embodiments, the hand covering  1700  does not include a coupler  1720 . 
   The hand covering  1700  includes a movement mechanism  1730 . The movement mechanism  1730  includes an elongate member  1740  with ends  1742  and  1744  and a tab  1732  coupled to end  1742 . Elongate member  1740  can be made of a relatively non-elastic material. In this embodiment, the hand covering  1700  includes a grommet  1747  that is inserted through the outer layer  1706 . Grommet  1747  includes an opening  1749  through which the elongate member  1740  is inserted. 
   In this embodiment, the hand covering  1700  has a suspension mechanism  1750  that includes elastic members  1760  and  1770 . The elastic members  1760  and  1770  are disposed in the receptacle formed by the outer layer  1706  and the shell  1702  and are illustrated in dashed lines in  FIGS. 54 and 55 . 
   Each of the elastic members  1760  and  1770  is coupled at one of its ends to the elongate member  1740  and at its other end to the hand covering  1700 . When the elongate member  1740  is pulled outwardly along the direction of arrow AB in  FIG. 55  to move the hood  1700  from a deployed configuration to a retracted configuration, the elastic members  1760  and  1770  are stretched. When the elongate member  1740  is pulled outwardly, a portion of the elastic member  1760  is also pulled outwardly through the grommet  1747 . When a user releases the elongate member  1740 , the elastic members  1760  and  1770  return to their unbiased or retracted configurations (shown in  FIG. 56 ). Such movements cause all or substantially all of the elongate member  1740  to be pulled into the hand covering  1700 . 
   Elastic member  1760  has ends  1762  and  1764  and elastic properties so that it can be stretched and return to its original configuration. For example, the elastic member  1760  can be a “bungee”-like cord. End  1762  is coupled to the elongate member  1740  using any conventional technique, including sewing, an adhesive, welding, molding, weaving, etc. End  1764  is coupled to the shell  1702  of the hand covering  1700  using any conventional technique. In this embodiment, end  1764  is coupled proximate to a coupling region  1734  which is spaced apart from the elongate member  1740 . Coupling region  1734  is disposed proximate to a side of the hand covering  1700 . In an alternative embodiment, the elastic member  1760  can be formed integrally with elongate member  1740 . Also, coupling region can be disposed at any location on the hand covering  1700 . 
   Elastic member  1770  has ends  1772  and  1774  and elastic properties so that it can be stretched and return to its original configuration. For example, the elastic member  1770  can be a “bungee”-like cord. End  1772  is coupled to the elongate member  1740  using any conventional technique, including sewing, an adhesive, welding, molding, weaving, etc. End  1774  is coupled to the shell  1702  of the hand covering  1700  using any conventional technique. In this embodiment, end  1774  is coupled proximate to the coupling region  1734 . In an alternative embodiment, the elastic member  1770  can be formed integrally with elongate member  1740 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 56 and 57 , different configurations of embodiments of the suspension mechanism and the movement mechanism are illustrated. In  FIG. 56 , the elastic members  1760  and  1770  are illustrated in their retracted or unbiased configurations  1768  and  1778 , respectively. As shown, elastic members  1760  and  1770  are in their shortest configurations in the unbiased configurations. 
   In  FIG. 57 , the elongate member  1740  is illustrated in a configuration in which it has moved along the direction of arrow AC. As elongate member  1740  is pulled, it substantially retains its shape and moves. As a result, end  1762  of the elastic member  1760  moves and the elastic member  1760  is pulled along the direction of arrow AD to an extended configuration  1766 . As elongate member  1740  moves, end  1772  of the elastic member  1770  moves and the elastic member  1770  is pulled along the direction of arrow AE to an extended configuration  1776 . 
   When the user releases the elongate member  1740 , elastic member  1760  moves along the direction of arrow AF and elastic member  1770  moves along the direction of arrow AG. Such movement causes the elongate member  1740  to be retracted along the direction of arrow AH. The extent of retraction of the elongate member  1740  depends on the length of the elongate member  1740  and the length and properties of the elastic members  1760  and  1770 . 
   In an alternative embodiment, the elastic member portions  1760  and  1770  can be a single elastic member that is coupled to the shell at a central location proximate to coupling region  1734  and coupled to the elongate member  1740  at its ends. 
   In alternative embodiments, the locations at which the elastic members are coupled to the hand covering can be proximate to each other or spaced apart from each other. The locations and configurations of the elastic members can vary so long as the elastic members are oriented to apply forces to the elongate member to retract all or part of the elongate member into the hand covering. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 58 and 59 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1800  includes a shell  1802  and an outer layer  1806  that is coupled to the shell  1802  to form a receptacle  1808  therebetween. As shown in  FIG. 58 , the hand covering  1800  includes an elongate member  1840  and two elastic members  1860  and  1870 . Members  1840 ,  1860 , and  1870  can be similar to members  1740 ,  1760  and  1770  previously described. 
   The hand covering  1800  includes a stiffener  1880  disposed proximate to the distal edge  1807  of the outer layer  1806  (see  FIG. 59 ). The stiffener  1880  includes ends  1882  and  1884 . In this embodiment, the length of the stiffener  1880  corresponds to the length of the distal edge  1807  of the outer layer  1806 . In alternative embodiments, the stiffener can be shorter than the distal edge. 
   The stiffener  1880  is made of a material that is more rigid than the material of the outer layer  1806 . The increased strength that the stiffener  1880  provides along the distal end of the receptacle  1808  helps the outer layer  1806  retain its shape and configuration while the hood  1810  is being pulled into the receptacle  1808 . The stiffener  1880  resists movement of the distal edge  1807  inwardly into the receptacle  1808  as the hood  1810  is retracted. 
   The stiffener  1880  can be made from any type of material. For example, the stiffener  1880  can be made from plastic, rubber, metal, binding, or any other material. In the event that the stiffener  1880  is disposed so that the hood  1810  contacts the stiffener  1880  as the hood  1810  is retracted, the material of the stiffener  1880  can also have a smooth surface or coating to reduce friction between the stiffener  1880  and the hood  1810 . 
   The stiffener  1880  can be coupled to the outer layer  1806  using any conventional technique. For example, the stiffener  1880  can be coupled to the outer layer  1806  via sewing, adhesion, welding, or any other method. 
   The stiffener  1880  can be disposed so that all, part, or none of the stiffener  1880  is visible to the user on the outer layer  1806 . In one embodiment, the stiffener  1880  can be coupled to an inner surface  1809  of the outer layer  1806 . In another embodiment, the stiffener can be coupled to the outer surface of the outer layer  1806 . In another embodiment, the stiffener can be coupled to both the inner surface and the outer surface of the outer layer  1806 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 59A , an alternative embodiment of an outer layer is illustrated. In this embodiment, the outer layer  1806 A has an inner surface  1809 A that has a receptacle  1811 A formed thereon or coupled thereto. The receptacle  1811 A can be formed by folding over a portion of the outer layer  1806 A and coupling the free end. Alternatively, the receptacle  1811 A can be formed by disposing a piece of material proximate to the inner surface  1809 A and coupling the piece of material on both sides along its length to the outer layer  1806 A. 
   The receptacle  1811 A has a channel  1813 A extending therethrough. As illustrated, the channel  1813 A is configured to receive the stiffener  1880 . In this embodiment, the stiffener  1880  can be removably coupled to the outer layer  1806 A. Alternatively, the stiffener  1880  can be inserted and the open ends of the receptacle  1811  A can be closed using any conventional technique, such as sewing. 
   Referring back to  FIGS. 58 and 59 , the hand covering  1800  can also include another stiffener  1890 . It is to be understood that in alternative embodiments, a hand covering can include one, both, or none of the stiffeners such as those described herein. The stiffener  1890  can be any type of material, as set forth in the description of stiffener  1880  above. 
   Stiffener  1890  has ends  1892  and  1894  and extends between opposite sides of the hand covering  1800 . As shown in  FIG. 58 , the stiffener  1890  can be aligned with the elastic member  1860 . Such an orientation reduces the movement of the coupling region  1834  (the location at which the elastic member  1860  is coupled to the hand covering  1800 ) toward the elongate member  1840  when the elongate member  1840  is pulled outwardly. Thus, the stiffener maintains the spacing between opposite sides of the hand covering when the elongate member  1840  is pulled. 
   The stiffener  1890  can be coupled to any component of the hand covering  1800 . In one embodiment, the stiffener  1890  is coupled to the outer surface of the shell  1802 . In other embodiments, the stiffener  1890  is coupled to either the inner surface or the outer surface of the hood  1810 . In other embodiments, the stiffener  1890  can be coupled to either the inner surface or the outer surface of the outer layer  1806 . The stiffener  1890  can be coupled to any of these components by sewing, adhesion, welding, bonding, or any other conventional technique. 
   In alternative embodiments, the length, shape and configuration of the stiffener  1890  and the orientation of the stiffener  1890  on the hand covering  1800  can vary so long as some stiffening properties are provided from side-to-side on the hand covering  1800 . 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering is illustrated in  FIG. 60 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  1900  includes a shell  1902  which has an outer layer  1906  coupled thereto to form a receptacle. The hand covering  1900  includes a hood  1910  that is movable between different configurations. The hood  1910  includes a coupler  1920  attached to an inner surface of the hood  1910 . 
   The hand covering  1900  has a movement mechanism  1930  that includes an elongate member  1940  that is connected to the coupler  1920  and extends outwardly through a grommet  1960 . The hood  1910  includes a loop  1950  that is coupled to the inner surface of the hood  1910 . The loop  1950  can be made from fabric, metal, plastic or any other material that can be configured to define a channel or path through which the elongate member  1940  can be inserted. 
   In an alternative embodiment, the location of the loop and the quantity of loops coupled to the hood can vary. For example, the elongate member can pass through multiple loops that are coupled to the hood proximate different sides of the hood. 
   In an alternative embodiment, the hand covering can include a suspension mechanism with one or more elastic members coupled to the elongate member. 
   An alternative embodiment of a hand covering according to the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 61 . In this embodiment, the hand covering  2000  includes a shell  2002  with an outer layer  2006  and a hood  2010 . A coupler  2020  is attached to the inner surface of the hood  2010 . The movement mechanism  2030  includes an elongate member  2040  that is attached to coupler  2020  and extends outwardly through grommet  2060 . 
   In this embodiment, a loop  2050  is disposed proximate to the distal end of the hood  2010 . When a user pulls on the elongate member  2040 , a pulling force is exerted on the loop  2050 , thereby initially pulling the distal end of the hood  2010  toward the receptacle and the proximal end of the hand covering  2000 . 
   In an alternative embodiment, the coupling portion of the hood does not extend to the proximal end of the shell. In another embodiment, the hood can be coupled to one of the outer layer and the back panel and not the other. In an alternative embodiment, the outer layer can be coupled to an inner surface of the shell in the interior region. In an alternative embodiment, the receptacle can be located on the palm side portion of the hand covering. 
   In one embodiment, the wrist portion of the hand covering includes a stretch binding that acts as a closure. In another embodiment, the hand covering includes a wrist closure mechanism, such as an adjustable strap, to seal the hand covering. 
   In one embodiment, the hood includes a laminating film disposed thereon. The hood can be made of nylon material. Alternatively, a polyurethane coating film can be used on the hood material as well. 
   While the invention has been described in detail and with references to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.