Patent Publication Number: US-2011061154-A1

Title: Cushioning Elements For Apparel And Other Products

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This non-provisional U.S. patent application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e)(1) to provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/158,653, which was filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on 9 Mar. 2009 and entitled Cushioning Elements For Apparel And Other Products, such provisional U.S. patent application being entirely incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Materials or elements that impart padding, cushioning, or otherwise attenuate impact forces are commonly incorporated into a variety of products. Athletic apparel, for example, often incorporates cushioning elements that protect the wearer from contact with other athletes, equipment, or the ground. More specifically, pads used in American football and hockey incorporate cushioning elements that provide impact protection to various parts of a wearer. Helmets utilized during American football, hockey, bicycling, skiing, snowboarding, and skateboarding incorporate cushioning elements that provide head protection during falls or crashes. Similarly, gloves utilized in soccer (e.g., by goalies) and hockey incorporate cushioning elements that provide protection to the hands of a wearer. In addition to apparel, mats (e.g., for yoga or camping), chair cushions, and backpacks all incorporate cushioning elements to enhance comfort. 
     SUMMARY 
     Various cushioning elements that may be utilized in apparel and a variety of other products are disclosed below. In general, the cushioning elements include a first material layer, a second material layer, a plurality of pad components, and a frame component. The pad components are located between and secured to the first material layer and the second material layer. The frame component is also located between the first material layer and the second material layer, but is unsecured to the first material layer, the second material layer, and the pad components. In some configurations, various pad components have different thicknesses. In further configurations, the frame component defines a plurality of apertures that receive at least a portion of the pad components. In other configurations, some pad components may have different colors, with the pad components being visible through at least one of the first material layer and the second material layer. 
     Articles of apparel are also disclosed below, including shorts, pants, shirts, wraps, gloves, helmets, and footwear, for example. In general, the articles of apparel include, a first material layer, a second material layer, and a plurality of foam components located between the first material layer and the second material layer. At least one of the foam components is secured to both of the first material layer and the second material layer, and at least one of the foam components is unsecured to both of the first material layer and the second material layer. Additionally, the foam components have corresponding shapes that mate with each other to form a foam layer within the apparel. 
     In another configuration, a cushioning element may include a first material layer, a second material layer, a plurality of first strips, and a plurality of second strips. The first strips are located between and secured to the first material layer and the second material layer, and the first strips are spaced from each other. The second strips are also located between the first material layer and the second material layer, and the second strips may be unsecured to the first material layer and the second material layer. Also, the second strips are positioned between the first strips. 
     The advantages and features of novelty characterizing aspects of the invention are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. To gain an improved understanding of the advantages and features of novelty, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and accompanying figures that describe and illustrate various configurations and concepts related to the invention. 
    
    
     
       FIGURE DESCRIPTIONS 
       The foregoing Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. 
         FIG. 1  is a front elevational view of an individual wearing an article of apparel. 
         FIG. 2  is a front elevational view of the article of apparel. 
         FIGS. 3 and 4  are side elevational views of the article of apparel. 
         FIG. 5  is a rear elevational view of the article of apparel. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a cushioning element. 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded perspective view of the cushioning element. 
         FIG. 8  is a top plan view of the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 9A and 9B  are cross-sectional views of the cushioning element, as defined by section lines  9 A and  9 B in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  are cross-sectional views corresponding with  FIG. 9A  and depicting the cushioning element in compressed states. 
         FIGS. 11A-11F  are schematic perspective views of a manufacturing process for the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 12A-12E  are schematic cross-sectional views of the manufacturing process, as respectively defined by section lines  12 A- 12 E in  FIGS. 11A-11E . 
         FIGS. 13A-13E  are exploded perspective views corresponding with  FIG. 7  and depicting further configurations of the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 14A-14P  are top plan views corresponding with  FIG. 8  and depicting further configurations of the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 15A-15H  are cross-sectional views corresponding with  FIG. 9A  and depicting further configurations of the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 16A-16H  are elevational views of articles of apparel incorporating the cushioning element. 
         FIGS. 17A-17C  are perspective views of further products incorporating the cushioning element. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of another configuration of the cushioning element. 
         FIG. 19  is an exploded perspective view of the cushioning element depicted in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 20  is a side elevational view of an article of footwear incorporating the cushioning element depicted in  FIG. 18 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various cushioning elements that may be incorporated into a variety of products, including articles of apparel (e.g., shorts, pants, shirts, wraps, gloves, helmets, and footwear), mats, seat cushions, and backpacks, for example. Additionally, the following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various processes for manufacturing the cushioning elements. 
     Apparel Configuration 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , an individual  10  is depicted as wearing an article of apparel  100  with the general configuration of a shorts-type garment. Although apparel  100  may be worn under other articles of apparel, apparel  100  may be worn alone, may be exposed, or may be worn over other articles of apparel. Apparel  100  may also be worn in combination with other pieces of equipment (e.g., athletic or protective equipment). Accordingly, the configuration of apparel  100  and the manner in which apparel  100  is worn by individual  10  may vary significantly. 
     Apparel  100  is depicted individually in  FIGS. 2-5  as including a pelvic region  101  and a pair of leg regions  102  that extend outward from pelvic region  101 . Pelvic region  101  corresponds with a pelvic area of individual  10  and covers at least a portion of the pelvic area when worn. An upper area of pelvic region  101  defines a waist opening  103  that extends around a waist of individual  10  when apparel  100  is worn. Leg regions  102  correspond with a right leg and a left leg of individual  10  and cover at least a portion of the right leg and the left leg when worn. Lower areas of leg regions  102  each define a thigh opening  104  that extends around a thigh of individual  10  when apparel  100  is worn. Additionally, apparel  100  includes an exterior surface  105  that faces away from individual  10  when apparel  100  is worn, and apparel  100  includes an opposite interior surface  106  that faces toward individual  10  and may contact individual  10  when apparel  100  is worn. 
     A plurality of cushioning elements  200  are incorporated into various areas of apparel  100  to impart padding, cushioning, or otherwise attenuate impact forces. When apparel  100  is worn during athletic activities, for example, cushioning elements  200  may protect individual  10  from contact with other athletes, equipment, or the ground. With regard to apparel  100 , cushioning elements  200  are located in both of pelvic region  101  and leg regions  102  and are positioned, more specifically, to protect the hips, thighs, and tailbone of individual  10 . As described in greater detail below, a variety of different articles of apparel may incorporate cushioning elements  200 , and cushioning elements  200  may be positioned in various areas of the apparel to protect specific portions (e.g., muscles, bones, joints, impact areas) of individual  10 . Additionally, the shapes, sizes, and other properties of cushioning elements  200 , as well as the materials utilized in cushioning elements  200 , may vary significantly to provide a particular level of protection to the specific portions of individual  10 . 
     Cushioning Element Configuration 
     An example configuration for cushioning element  200  is depicted in  FIGS. 6-9B  as including a first material layer  210 , a second material layer  220 , a plurality of pad components  230 , and a frame component  240 . In general, pad components  230  and frame component  240  are positioned between first material layer  210  and second material layer  220 . Although pad components  230  are secured to first material layer  210  and second material layer  220 , frame component  240  is unsecured to each of first material layer  210 , second material layer  220 , and pad components  230 . 
     First material layer  210  and second material layer  220  cooperatively form an outer surface or covering for cushioning element  200 . That is, first material layer  210  and second material layer  220  cooperatively form a pocket or void, in which pad components  230  and frame component  240  are located. Whereas second material layer  220  is depicted as having a generally planar configuration, first material layer  210  extends over pad components  230  and frame component  240  and also along sides of pad components  230  to join with second material layer  220  (e.g., through stitching, an adhesive, or thermal bonding). Although cushioning element  200  may be incorporated into apparel  100  in a variety of ways, first material layer  210  may be positioned exterior of second material element  220 . That is, first material layer  210  may form a portion of exterior surface  105 , whereas second material layer  220  may form a portion of interior surface  106 . An advantage to this configuration is that cushioning element  200  protrudes outward from apparel  100 , rather than protruding inward and toward individual  10 . In some configurations of apparel  100 , however, cushioning element  200  may protrude inward. 
     A variety of materials may be utilized for first material layer  210  and second material layer  220 , including various textiles, polymer sheets, leather, or synthetic leather, for example. Combinations of these materials (e.g., a polymer sheet bonded to a textile) may also be utilized for material layers  210  and  220 . Although material layers  210  and  220  may be formed from the same material, each of material layers  210  and  220  may also be formed from different materials. With regard to textiles, material layers  210  and  220  may be formed from knitted, woven, or non-woven textile elements that include rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, cotton, wool, or silk, for example. Moreover, the textiles may be non-stretch, may exhibit one-directional stretch, or may exhibit multi-directional stretch. Accordingly, a variety of materials are suitable for first material layer  210  and second material layer  220 . 
     Pad components  230  are located between and secured to each of material layers  210  and  220 . Each of pad components  230  has a first surface  231  secured to first material layer  210 , an opposite second surface  232  secured to second material layer  220 , and a side surface  233  that extends between surfaces  231  and  232 . Although the shapes of pad components  230  may vary significantly, each of surfaces  231  and  232  are depicted as having an elliptical or generally elongate shape with rounded end areas, and side surface  233  extends in a generally straight fashion between surfaces  231  and  232 . Pad components  230  are spaced evenly from each other and arranged in offset rows. Given that cushioning element  200  is depicted as having a generally rectangular configuration, various pad components  230  around a perimeter of cushioning element  200  exhibit a truncated or partial configuration. 
     Although many of pad components  230  may exhibit similar shapes, the thicknesses of pad components  230  may vary significantly. As utilized in the present document, the term “thickness” or variants thereof is intended to refer to a distance that is generally perpendicular to portions material layers  210  and  220  that are secured to surfaces  231  and  232  of pad components  230 . As such, the thickness of pad components  230  is generally defined as the distance between surfaces  231  and  232 . Referring to the cross-sectional views of  FIGS. 9A and 9B , for example, the various pad components  230  across a width of cushioning element  200  are depicted as having a range of three different thicknesses. More particularly, a group of pad components  230  located in a central area of cushioning element  200  exhibit a maximum thickness, a group of pad components  230  located around the central area exhibit a medium thickness, and a group of pad components  230  located adjacent to a periphery of cushioning element  200  exhibit a minimum thickness. In general, therefore, the thicknesses of pad components  230  may decrease depending upon their relative proximity to the periphery of cushioning element  200 . 
     Pad components  230  exhibiting the maximum thickness are depicted as being located in the central area of cushioning element  200 . In further configurations, these pad components  230  may extend to the periphery of cushioning element  200  or may be entirely located at the periphery. Even when pad components  230  exhibiting the maximum thickness extend to the periphery, pad components  230  with a lesser thickness may extend at least partially around the pad components  230  with the maximum thickness to form areas or groups of pad components  230  with a common thickness in cushioning element  200 . 
     An advantage of forming pad components  230  to have varying thicknesses relates to the comfort of apparel  100  and the integration of apparel  100  with other articles of apparel or equipment. The lesser thickness of pad components  230  located adjacent to a periphery of cushioning element  200  imparts a lower profile to cushioning element  200  at the periphery. Given the lower profile, portions of cushioning element  200  at the periphery may be less noticeable to individual  10  and may interfere less with the other articles of apparel or equipment. The thicknesses of pad components  230  may vary significantly. As examples, the various groups of pad components  230  may have thicknesses of approximately (a) 12 millimeters, 9 millimeters, and 6 millimeters; (b) 12 millimeters, 6 millimeters, and 3 millimeters; (c) 10 millimeters, 7 millimeters, and 4 millimeters; (d) 7 millimeters, 5 millimeters, and 3 millimeters; or (e) 5 millimeters, 3 millimeters, and 1 millimeter. More generally, the various thicknesses of pad components may range from 1 to 20 millimeters or more. 
     A variety of materials may be utilized for pad components  230 , including various polymer foam materials that return to an original shape after being compressed. Examples of suitable polymer foam materials for pad components  230  include polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene foams. Moreover, both thermoplastic and thermoset polymer foam materials may be utilized. In some configurations of cushioning element  200 , pad components  230  may be formed from a polymer foam material with a varying density, or solid polymer or rubber materials may be utilized. Also, different pad components  230  may be formed from different materials, or may be formed from similar materials with different densities. As discussed above, the thicknesses of pad components  230  may vary significantly. In some configurations, pad components  230  with the maximum thickness may be formed from a polymer foam material with a different density than pad components with a lesser thickness. Alternately, pad components  230  with different thicknesses may all be formed from polymer foam materials with the same densities, or pad components  230  with different thicknesses may all be formed from different materials. As discussed in greater detail below, the polymer foam materials forming pad components  230  attenuate impact forces to provide cushioning or protection. By selecting thicknesses, materials, and densities for each of the various pad components  230 , the degree of impact force attenuation may be varied throughout cushioning component  200  to impart a desired degree of cushioning or protection. 
     Frame component  240  is located between each of material layers  210  and  220 . In contrast with pad components  230 , frame component  240  is unsecured to each of first material layer  210  and second material layer  220 , and frame component  240  is also unsecured to pad components  230 . This configuration permits frame component  240  to float or otherwise move relative to first material layer  210 , second material layer  220 , and pad components  230 . Frame component  240  has a first surface  241 , an opposite second surface  242 , and a side surface  243  extending between surfaces  241  and  242 . Additionally, frame component  240  defines a plurality of apertures  244  having the general shape of pad components  230 . Given this configuration, frame component  240  extends around and between various pad components  230 . In areas where frame component  240  is present, the combination of pad components  230  and frame component  240  effectively forms a foam layer within cushioning element  200 . Although the dimensions of apertures  244  may substantially match the dimensions of pad components  230 , frame component  240  may also be formed such that a gap extends between edges of apertures  244  and side surfaces  233  of pad components  230 . 
     Frame component  240  is depicted as being located in the central area of cushioning element  200  and extending around only the pad components  230  that exhibit the maximum thickness. As an alternative, frame component  240  may extend (a) throughout cushioning element  200  and define apertures  244  that extend around all of pad components  230 , (b) around the pad components  230  that exhibit the medium thickness, or (c) around only some of the pad components having the maximum, medium, and minimum thicknesses. Additionally, frame component  240  may extend to the periphery of cushioning element  200  in some areas, but not in other areas. Accordingly, the portions of cushioning element  200  into which frame component  240  extends may vary significantly. 
     Referring to the cross-sectional views of  FIGS. 9A and 9B , for example, frame component  240  is depicted as exhibiting lesser thickness (i.e., distance between surfaces  241  and  242 ) than each of pad components  230 . An advantage of this configuration is that frame component  240  may move relative to material layers  210  and  220 , thereby enhancing the flexibility of cushioning element  200 . As an example, frame component  240  may have a thickness of approximately 2 millimeters in a configuration wherein the pad components  230  with the minimum thickness are 3 millimeters. In other configurations, the thickness of frame component  240  may range from 1 to 20 millimeters or more. Although frame component  240  may exhibit lesser thickness than each of pad components  230 , frame component  240  may also be thicker than some or all of pad components  230 . 
     Any of the variety of materials discussed above as being suitable for pad components  230  may also be utilized for frame component  240 , including various polymer foam materials that return to an original shape after being compressed. Examples of suitable polymer foam materials for frame component  240  include polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene foams. Moreover, both thermoplastic and thermoset polymer foam materials may be utilized. In some configurations of cushioning element  200 , frame component  240  may be formed from solid polymer or rubber materials. 
     The compressible polymer foam materials forming pad components  230  and frame component  240  attenuate impact forces that compress or otherwise contact cushioning element  200 . When incorporated into apparel  100  or another article of apparel, for example, the polymer foam materials of pad components  230  and frame component  240  may compress to protect a wearer from contact with other athletes, equipment, or the ground. Accordingly, cushioning element  200  may be utilized to provide cushioning or protection to areas of a wearer that are covered by cushioning element  200 . Referring to  FIGS. 10A-10C , an object  20  is depicted as impacting various portions of cushioning element  200 . Given the configuration of cushioning element  200 , particularly with regard to the combination of pad components  230  and frame component  240 , object  20  may not generally project through cushioning element  200  regardless of the area of contact with cushioning element  200 . More particularly, when object  20  contacts a portion of cushioning element  200  corresponding with one of pad components  230 , as depicted in  FIG. 10A , the pad component  230  compresses to attenuate impact forces and provide cushioning or protection. When object  20  contacts a portion of cushioning element  200  corresponding with an edge of one of pad components  230 , as depicted in  FIG. 10B , the pad component  230  and frame component  240  cooperatively compresses to attenuate impact forces and provide cushioning or protection. Similarly, when object  20  contacts a portion of cushioning element  200  corresponding with frame component  240  (i.e., at a location between two pad components  230 ), as depicted in  FIG. 10C , frame component  240  compresses to attenuate impact forces and provide cushioning or protection. Accordingly, regardless of the area at which an object contacts cushioning element  200 , either or both of pad components  230  and frame component  240  attenuates impact forces associated with the contact. 
     In addition to attenuating impact forces, cushioning element  200  has an advantage of simultaneously providing one or more of breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability. When incorporated into an article of apparel, particularly apparel used for athletic activities, a wearer may perspire and generate excess heat. By utilizing a permeable textile for material layers  210  and  220  and also forming gaps between adjacent pad components  230  and areas between pad components  230  and frame component  240 , areas for air to enter the apparel and for moisture to exit the apparel are formed through cushioning component  200 . More particularly, air and moisture may pass through material layers  210  and  220 , between pad components  230  in areas where frame component  240  is absent, and between pad components  230  and frame component  240  in areas where frame component  240  is present to impart breathability to areas of the apparel having cushioning element  200 . Moreover, the materials and structure discussed above for cushioning element  200  impart flexibility and a low overall mass to cushioning element  200 . Furthermore, the materials and structure discussed above for cushioning element  200  permits cushioning element  200  to be laundered without significant shrinkage or warping, even when temperatures associated with commercial laundering processes are utilized. Accordingly, cushioning element  200  may simultaneously provide impact force attenuation, breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability to an article of apparel. 
     Manufacturing Processes 
     A variety of techniques may be utilized to manufacture cushioning element  200 . With reference to  FIGS. 11A-11F  and  12 A- 12 E, an example of a suitable manufacturing process is discussed. Initially, pad components  230  and frame component  240  are formed to have intended shapes and thicknesses through, for example, molding, die-cutting, or laser-cutting operations. Pad components  230  may also be extruded as a long element that is cut to desired thicknesses. Once pad components  230  and frame component  240  are formed, second material layer  220  and pad components  230  may be placed within a mold having a first mold portion  31  and a second mold portion  32 , as depicted in  FIGS. 11A and 12A . Frame component  240  is then located between mold portions  31  and  32 , as depicted in  FIGS. 11B and 12B . More particularly, frame component  240  is positioned such that apertures  244  align with selected pad components  230 . First material layer  210  is then placed over pad components  230  and frame component  240 , as depicted in  FIGS. 11C and 12C , and frame component  240  is located between and around various pad components  230 . That is, frame component  240  is positioned such that apertures  244  extend around selected pad components  230 . 
     Whereas second mold portion  32  has a generally flat upper surface, first mold portion  31  has a stepped configuration. As discussed above, pad components  230  exhibit various thicknesses, and the stepped configuration of first mold portion  31  corresponds with the various thicknesses. Once material layers  210  and  220 , pad components  230 , and frame component  240  are properly positioned between mold portions  31  and  32 , mold portions  31  and  32  may close upon and compress material layers  210  and  220 , pad components  230 , and frame component  240 , as depicted in  FIGS. 11D and 12D , to effect bonding between (a) first material layer  210  and first surfaces  231  of pad components  230  and (b) second material layer  220  and second surfaces  232  of pad components  230 . 
     Mold portions  31  and  32  effectively compress pad components  230  between material layers  210  and  220  to ensure bonding. As an example, an adhesive may be utilized to bond pad components  230  to each of material layers  210  and  220 . At prior stages of the manufacturing process, an adhesive may be applied to either (a) areas of material layers  210  and  220  that are intended to bond with pad components  230  or (b) surfaces  231  and  232  of pad components  230 . Although the adhesive may be applied to material layers  210  and  220 , an advantage of applying the adhesive to surfaces  231  and  232  of pad components  230  is that the adhesive is absent from areas of material layers  210  and  220  that may contact frame component  240 . As another example, heat may be utilized to bond pad components  230  to each of material layers  210  and  220 . In configurations where pad components  230  are formed from a thermoplastic polymer foam material, heating and melting of pad components  230  at surfaces  231  and  232  may be utilized to bond pad components  230  to each of material layers  210  and  220 . Similarly, material layers  210  and  220  may also incorporate a thermoplastic polymer material. In order to elevate the temperatures, various radiant heaters, radio frequency emitters, or other devices may be utilized. Alternately, mold portions  31  and  32  may be heated such that contact with mold portions  31  and  32  raises the temperature of pad components  230  to a level that facilitates bonding. In some configurations, a thermally-activated adhesive may be utilized. 
     Following compression and bonding, mold portions  31  and  32  separate to expose material layers  210  and  220 , pad components  230 , and frame component  240 , as depicted in  FIGS. 11E and 12E . At this stage of the manufacturing process, first material layer  210  is unsecured to second material layer  220 . Additional stitching, adhesive, or thermal bonding steps may now be utilized to join material layers  210  and  220  around the periphery of pad components  230 , as depicted in  FIG. 11F , thereby substantially completing the manufacture of cushioning element  200 . 
     When incorporated into apparel, such as apparel  100 , one of material layers  210  and  220  may be utilized to form other areas of the apparel. For example, second material layer  220  may form portions of apparel  100  that extend over the pelvic area or legs of individual  10 . That is, second material layer  220  may extend outward from cushioning element  200  to form other portions of apparel  100 . In these situations, second material layer  220  may have a shape and size that forms the other portions of apparel  100 . 
     Further Cushioning Element Configurations 
     Aspects of cushioning element  200  may vary, depending upon the intended use for cushioning element  200  and the product in which cushioning element  200  is incorporated. Moreover, changes to the dimensions, shapes, and materials utilized within cushioning element  200  may vary the overall properties of cushioning element  200 . That is, by changing the dimensions, shapes, and materials utilized within cushioning element  200 , the compressibility, impact force attenuation, breathability, flexibility, and overall mass of cushioning element  200  may be tailored to specific purposes or products. A plurality of variations for cushioning element  200  are discussed below. Any of these variations, as well as combinations of these variations, may be utilized to tailor the properties of cushioning element  200  to an intended use or particular product. 
     A further configuration of cushioning element  200  is depicted in  FIG. 13A , wherein frame component  240  extends around and between each of pad components  230 . That is, frame component  240  extends to peripheral areas of cushioning element  200  and defines apertures  244  that receive each of pad components  230 . In another configuration, as depicted in  FIG. 13B , frame component  240  is located in the peripheral areas of cushioning element  200  and is absent from the central area of cushioning element  200 . Frame component may also be absent from cushioning element  200 , as depicted in  FIG. 13C . Depending upon the spacing of pad components  230 , the dimensions of frame component  240  and the spacing between apertures  244  may vary. Referring to  FIG. 13D , pad components  230  exhibit greater spacing and the spacing between apertures  244  is varied accordingly. Although one frame component  240  may be utilized in cushioning element  200 , multiple frame components  240  may be utilized in some configurations. Referring to  FIG. 13E , two separate and spaced frame components  240  are located at opposite ends of cushioning element  200 . 
     Pad components  230  are discussed above as having an elliptical or generally elongate shape with rounded end areas. Pad components  230  may, however, have a variety of other shapes, including round, triangular, and hexagonal, as respectively depicted in  FIGS. 14A-14C . Pad components  230  may have an irregular shape, as depicted in  FIG. 14D , or may be a mixture of different shapes, as depicted in  FIG. 14E . Although each of pad components  230  may have the same shape and size, pad components  230  may also have generally similar shapes with a variety of different sizes, as depicted in  FIG. 14F . 
     In addition to aspects of pad components  230  and frame component  240  that may vary significantly, the overall shape of cushioning element  200  may vary. Referring to  FIG. 14G , cushioning element  200  exhibits a generally circular shape. In further configurations, cushioning element  200  may have a triangular, hexagonal, or H-shaped structure, as respectively depicted in  FIGS. 14H-14J . Various shapes for cushioning element  200  are also depicted in association with apparel  100  in  FIGS. 1-5 . As examples of these, one of cushioning elements  200  from apparel  100  that has a shape suitable for a hip pad is depicted in  FIG. 14K , one of cushioning elements  200  from apparel  100  that has a shape suitable for a thigh pad is depicted in  FIG. 14L , and one of cushioning elements  200  from apparel  100  that has a shape suitable for a tailbone pad is depicted in  FIG. 14M . A configuration for cushioning element  200  that has a shape suitable for an elbow pad (e.g., for a shirt, jacket, or arm sleeve) is depicted in  FIG. 14N . 
     Various aspects relating to first material layer  210  and second material layer  220  may also vary significantly. As discussed above, material layers  210  and  220  may be formed from various textiles, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather, or combinations of materials, for example. Referring to  FIG. 14O , first material layer  210  is depicted as having the configuration of a mesh material that defines a plurality of holes, through which pad components  230  and frame component  240  are visible. In addition to imparting greater breathability that allows the transfer of air and moisture, a mesh material may allow for various aesthetic properties. More particularly, pad components  230  and frame component  240  may have different colors that are visible through first material layer  210 , or pad components  230  with different thicknesses may have different colors to assist with identifying the internal configuration of cushioning element  200 . In addition to a mesh material, other at least semi-transparent textile or polymer sheet materials may also permit pad components  230  with different colors to be visible. In further configurations, first material layer  210  may be entirely absent from cushioning element  200 , as depicted in  FIG. 14P . 
     Although the thicknesses of pad components  230  may vary in the manner discussed above, pad components  230  may also have substantially identical thicknesses, as depicted in  FIG. 15A . In some configurations of cushioning element  200 , pad components  230  located in the central area may have lesser thickness than pad components  230  located in the peripheral area, as depicted in  FIG. 15B . The thicknesses of pad components  230  may also decrease across the width of cushioning element  200 , as depicted in  FIG. 15C , or may taper across the width of cushioning element  200 , as depicted in  FIG. 15D . Referring to  FIG. 15E , the thicknesses of pad components  230  may also alternate. Although pad components  230  may have a common thickness, two different thicknesses, or three thicknesses, the number of thicknesses may vary significantly. As an example, a configuration wherein pad components  230  exhibit four thicknesses is depicted in  FIG. 15F . 
     In each of the configurations discussed above, frame component  240  exhibits lesser thickness than each of pad components  230 . Referring to  FIG. 15G , frame component  240  exhibits a thickness that is substantially equal to the thicknesses of pad components  230 , but the thickness of frame component  240  may also be greater than the thickness of pad components  230  in some configurations. Another example is depicted in  FIG. 15H , wherein the thickness of frame component  240  varies across the width of cushioning element  200 . 
     Further Apparel and Product Configurations 
     Apparel  100  is depicted in  FIGS. 1-5  as having the general configuration of a shorts-type garment. Referring to  FIG. 16A , leg regions  102  of apparel  100  extend downward to a greater degree, thereby imparting the configuration of a pants-type garment that includes additional cushioning elements  200  for the knees of individual  10 . A similar configuration is depicted in  FIG. 16B , wherein apparel  100  includes additional cushioning elements  200  for the ankles or lower legs of individual  10 . 
     In addition to shorts-type garments and pants-type garments, a variety of other types of apparel may also incorporate cushioning elements  200  in any of the configurations discussed above. Referring to  FIG. 16C , an article of apparel  110  having the configuration of a shirt-type garment is depicted as including two cushioning elements  200  in locations that correspond with elbows of a wearer. When worn, cushioning elements  200  may provide protection to the elbows. That is, cushioning elements  200  may attenuate impact forces upon the elbows. In addition to attenuating impact forces, cushioning elements  200  may also simultaneously provide one or more of breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability. Although apparel  110  is depicted as a long-sleeved shirt, apparel  110  may have the configuration of other shirt-type garments, including short-sleeved shirts, tank tops, undershirts, jackets, and coats, for example. Referring to  FIG. 16D , apparel  110  is depicted as including six cushioning elements  200  in locations that correspond with elbows, shoulders, and sides of a wearer. 
     Cushioning elements  200  may also be incorporated into apparel that covers other areas of the wearer, such as hats, helmets, wraps, footwear, socks, and gloves, for example. As an example, a wrap  120  with one cushioning element  200  is depicted in  FIG. 16E . Wrap  120  has a generally cylindrical configuration that may be placed upon an arm or a leg of a wearer. When, for example, the elbow is sore or injured, cushioning element  200  of wrap  120  may be located over the elbow to assist with protecting the elbow during athletic activities. As another example, a sockliner  130  that incorporates a cushioning element  200  is depicted in  FIG. 16F . Sockliner  130  may be located within an article of footwear to cushion a lower (i.e., plantar) surface of the foot. Additionally, one or more cushioning elements  200  may be incorporated into a glove  140 , as depicted in  FIG. 16G , to impart protection to a hand of the wearer. One or more cushioning elements  200  may also be incorporated into a helmet  150 , as depicted in  FIG. 16H , to impart protection to a head of the wearer. In addition to attenuating impact forces, cushioning elements  200  in these configurations may also simultaneously provide one or more of breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability. 
     Cushioning elements  200  may also be utilized in products other than apparel. Referring to  FIG. 17A , a mat  160  is depicted as being primarily formed from one cushioning element  200 . Mat  160  may be utilized, for example, during yoga or as a camping pad to provide a comfortable surface for sitting or laying on the ground. A cushioning element  200  may also be incorporated into a chair  170 , as depicted in  FIG. 17B , to provide a comfortable place to sit. Similarly, a cushioning element  200  may be incorporated into a cushion that may be placed upon a chair or upon bleachers at a sporting event, for example. Also, a cushioning element  200  may be incorporated into a backpack  180 , as depicted in  FIG. 17C , to provide cushioning against the back of the wearer. Accordingly, various configurations of cushioning elements  200  may be incorporated into a plurality of products. 
     Another Cushioning Element Configuration 
     An example configuration for a cushioning element  300  is depicted in  FIGS. 18 and 19  as including a first material layer  310 , a second material layer  320 , a plurality of first strips  330 , and a plurality of second strips  340 . In addition to attenuating impact forces, cushioning element  300  has an advantage of simultaneously providing one or more of breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability. 
     First material layer  310  and second material layer  320  cooperatively form an outer surface or covering for cushioning element  300 . In general, strips  330  and  340  are positioned between first material layer  310  and second material layer  320 . Although first strips  330  are secured to each of first material layer  310  and second material layer  320 , second strips  340  are unsecured to each of first material layer  310 , second material layer  320 , and first strips  330 . Any of the various materials discussed above for material layers  210  and  220  may also be utilized for material layers  310  and  320 . 
     First strips  330  are located between and secured to each of material layers  310  and  320 . Moreover, each of first strips  330  are arranged in a generally spaced and parallel relationship, and edges of first strips  330  exhibit a wavy or undulating configuration. Second strips  340  are also located between each of material layers  310  and  320 . In contrast with first strips  330 , second strips  330  are unsecured to each of material layers  310  and  320 , and second strips  340  are also unsecured to first strips  330 . This configuration permits second strips  340  to float or otherwise move relative to first material layer  310 , second material layer  320 , and second strips  330 . As with first strips  330 , second strips  340  exhibit a wavy or undulating configuration. The corresponding wavy or undulating configurations in strips  330  and  340  effectively prevent longitudinal or sliding movement of second strips  340 . That is, strips  340  may be able to move toward and away from material layers  310  and  320 , but may be prevented from sliding relative to material layers  310  and  320  due to the corresponding wavy or undulating configurations in strips  330  and  340 . Although the corresponding wavy or undulating edges in strips  330  and  340  effectively prevent longitudinal or sliding movement of second strips  340 , a variety of other configurations may be utilized, including T-shaped cutouts in one of strips  330  and  340  that receive T-shaped protrusions from the other of strips  330  and  340 . 
     Any of the variety of materials discussed above for pad components  230  and frame component  240  may be utilized for strips  330  and  340 , including various polymer foam materials that return to an original shape after being compressed. Examples of suitable polymer foam materials for strips  330  and  340  include polyurethane, ethylvinylacetate, polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene foams. Moreover, both thermoplastic and thermoset polymer foam materials may be utilized. Polymer sheet materials or combinations of various materials may also be utilized for strips  330  and  340 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 19 , for example, second strips  340  are depicted as exhibiting lesser thicknesses than each of first strips  330 . As an example, first strips  330  may have a thickness of approximately 4 millimeters, whereas second strips may have a thickness of approximately 2 millimeters. The thicknesses of strips  330  and  340  may, however, range from 1 to 20 millimeters or more. Although second strips  340  may exhibit lesser thickness than each of first strips  330 , second strips  340  may also be thicker in some configurations. 
     In addition to thickness, the relative density between first strips  330  and second strips  340  may vary. For example, first strips  330  may be formed from a material with lesser density than second strips  340 . More particularly, first strips  330  may be formed from a lighter and more compressible polymer foam material than second strips  340 . Alternately, second strips  340  may be formed from a material with lesser density than first strips  330 . 
     Although strips  330  and  340  may be molded or die-cut, a laser-cutting operation may also be utilized to impart precise tolerances between strips  330  and  340 . In some configurations, end areas of first strips  330 , for example, may be connected. That is, a single material element forming first strips  330  may be formed to ensure that first strips  330  remain properly positioned relative to each other, and the material element may define apertures (i.e. areas between first strips  330 ) that receive second strips  340 . 
     An advantage of cushioning element  300  relates to moldability. When at least some of first material layer  310 , second material layer  320 , first strips  330 , and second strips  340  incorporate a thermoplastic polymer material, cushioning element  300  may be heated, molded to a desired shape, and allowed to cool in order to retain that shape. Referring to  FIG. 20 , cushioning element  300  is depicted as being incorporated into an upper portion of an article of footwear  190 , which is utilized to comfortably and securely receive a foot of a wearer. Given that the upper portion of footwear  190  has a shape that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the foot, around a heel area of the foot, and under the foot, cushioning element  300  effectively has a three-dimensional shape. By heating, molding, and cooling cushioning element  300  (or multiple joined cushioning elements  300 ), cushioning element  300  may form a three-dimensional structure that extends around the foot. Moreover, cushioning element  300  may impart one or more of impact force attenuation, breathability, flexibility, a relatively low overall mass, and launderability to footwear  190 . In addition to footwear  190 , cushioning element  300  may be incorporated into various other articles of apparel (e.g., shorts, pants, shirts, wraps, gloves, and helmets) and products (e.g., mats, chairs, and backpacks). 
     The invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying figures with reference to a variety of configurations. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the configurations described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.