Patent Description:
Sports garments are typically worn to support and minimize user's breast movement while engaged in a strenuous activity, such as participating in an athletic event.

One typical design for a sports garment is a pre-sized sports bra that includes a non-adjustable elastic rib band having a fixed circumference. However, putting on a pre-sized sports-bra can be cumbersome because one must normally place the sports bra over her head and stretch the rib band around her shoulder to secure the sports bra in place. Moreover, pre-sized sports-bras lack adjustment options for modifying the tension of the sports bra, thereby failing to provide a tailored fit for the user.

Another conventional design for a sports garment is an adjustable sports bra that includes a pair of straps that fasten together along the back of the user. The straps typically include a hook-and-eye closure system, in which one of the straps clips to the other one of straps at about the spinal region of the user. Because the straps meet at the back, the user needs to reach behind her back to readjust the tension and fit of the sports bra. Consequently, one cannot conveniently readjust the fit of the sports bra in the midst of activity, often needing to slow down before attempting to adjust the tension of the straps.

In addition, adjustment sports bras typically include a clunky design, which encumbers the user in the midst of activity.

<CIT> refers to a bra for covering the upper part of a body. The bra discloses a left and a right part, which are connected at the back. The left and right part can be wrapped to cover the frontside of a body, such that the left and right parts are overlapping each other at the frontside.

<CIT> is directed to a support garment, and more specifically to a bra that has support features that simultaneously provides stability, support and comfort. Thereby, an adjustable athletic bra is provided that minimizes three- dimensional movement of breasts laterally (side to side), vertically (up and down), and in and out (i.e., eight dimensional movements of breasts) to provide stability of breasts in multiple directions and allows for customization of the fit of the bra as desired.

<CIT> relates to a bra that is easy to put on, take off and adjust and provides good support for the user's chest.

The present disclosure includes various embodiments of a sports garment for supporting and minimizing breast movement of a user engaged in an athletic activity.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles thereof and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the same.

The present inventions will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to indicate identical or functionally similar elements. References to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "an example embodiment", etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic.

The following examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of the present inventions. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the scope of the inventions.

While various designs for sports garments (e.g., sports bras) are known, conventional sports garment designs have many flaws, such as failing to provide proper support for the user's breasts, lacking convenient adjustment features, or simply being cumbersome to put on or take off.

For example, pre-sized sports bras with a non-adjustable elastic rib band having a fixed circumference usually require the process of placing the sport's bra over the user's head and stretching the rib band around the user's shoulder for the sports bra to be worn by the user. Moreover, pre-sized sports bras typically include a single molded cup, which fails to provide adequate support for the user's breast.

Another example includes the adjustable sports bra with a pair of straps that clasp together at about the spinal region of the user. Once secured to the user, these types of sports bras are difficult to readjust along the user's torso because the user must reach behind her back to adjust the tension of the straps. Thus, one usually must pause from her activity to adjust the fit of the sports bra.

While other sport bras have adjustment features on the front side of the sports bra, these types of bras typically require connecting multiple pieces, such as straps, clips, and panels, together, rendering the sports bra clunky. The clunky design encumbers the user during athletic activity, ultimately slowing the user down and being uncomfortable.

Accordingly, there is a need for a sports bra that may be secured to the user with little effort, and at the same time, still provide high support for the user. Moreover, there is a need for a sports bra that allows the user to easily adjust the fit and tension of sports bra after being placed on the user, while still providing a sleek design that does not encumber the user in the midst of strenuous activity.

According to various embodiments described herein, the sports garment of the present disclosure may overcome one or more of the deficiencies noted above by comprising a cup portion configured to receive and conform to the user's breast, a base portion disposed below the cup portion and configured to stretch along the user's torso to support the cup portion, a first strap portion disposed along a first side edge of the base portion, and a second strap portion disposed along a second side of the base portion. The first and second strap portions are configured to flex away from a torso of a user and wrap around the torso of the user so that the user may don or remove the sports garment without pulling the sports garment around the user's head and shoulders. The cup portion, base portion, first strap portion, and second strap portion are integrated as a single piece sports bra comprising a streamlined contour that does not encumber the user in the midst of activity, ultimately promoting more comfort to the user. The first and second strap portions are configured to be removably coupled to a front surface of the base portion so that the user may adjust the tension and fit of the sports garment without reaching behind the user's back.

<FIG> illustrate a sports garment <NUM> for supporting and minimizing breast movement of a user engaged in an athletic activity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Sports garment <NUM> may include a cup portion <NUM>, a base portion <NUM>, a first strap portion <NUM>, and a second strap portion <NUM> that are integrated together to form a single piece sports bra configured to wrap around a torso of the user and flap apart toward an open configuration such that the user may don or remove sports garment <NUM> without pulling sports garment <NUM> around the user's head and shoulders.

In various embodiments, cup portion <NUM> is shaped to receive and cover breasts of the user. In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, cup portion <NUM> extends in a vertical direction along a chest of the user from a bottom edge <NUM> to a first shoulder edge <NUM> and a second shoulder edge <NUM>. Cup portion <NUM> extends in a lateral direction along a chest of the user from a first arm edge <NUM> to a second arm edge <NUM>, in which first arm edge <NUM> extends from bottom edge <NUM> to first shoulder edge <NUM> and second arm edge <NUM> extends from bottom edge <NUM> to second shoulder edge <NUM>. Cup portion <NUM> includes a neckline edge <NUM> extending in the lateral direction from first shoulder edge <NUM> to second shoulder edge <NUM> and curving towards bottom edge <NUM>. In some embodiments, cup portion <NUM> may have fewer or more edges, so long as cup portion <NUM> is configured to receive and cover breasts of the user.

In various embodiments, cup portion <NUM> includes a plurality of sections defining different shapes and comprising various layers of material so that the cup portion <NUM> may conform and support breasts of the user. Referring to <FIG>, for example, in one embodiment, cup portion <NUM> includes a first cup section <NUM> and a second cup section <NUM> each comprising a cup mold protruding away from the chest of the user for receiving a breast of the user. First cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM> each comprise a sufficient amount of elasticity to conform to breasts of the user. Cup portion includes a center section <NUM> disposed between first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM> and configured to press against a sternum of the user. Cup portion <NUM> includes a first side section <NUM> adjacent to first arm edge <NUM> and extending from first shoulder edge <NUM> to bottom edge <NUM>. Cup portion <NUM> includes a second side section <NUM> adjacent to second arm edge <NUM> and extending from second shoulder edge <NUM> to bottom edge <NUM>. Center section <NUM>, first side section <NUM>, and second side section <NUM> each comprise a sufficient amount of rigidity to cradle the more elastic first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM>. In some embodiments, cup portion <NUM> may have fewer or more sections, so long as cup portion <NUM> is configured to receive and conform to breasts of the user.

In various embodiments, cup portion <NUM> may include at least two layers comprised of different materials so that cup portion <NUM> provides suitable compressibility and support against breasts of the user. <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of some of the layers of different materials used for constructing cup portion <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, for example, cup portion <NUM> includes a seamless frontal layer <NUM> extending continuously between all sides of cup portion <NUM> without any gaps or interruptions. In various embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> may be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> is comprised of an elastomer material so that front layer <NUM> may stretch and conform to the shape of breasts of the user. In some embodiments, front layer <NUM> comprises a polymeric material, such as polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyethylene (PE), and co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> comprises a blend of polyamide in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>% and elastane in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>%.

In various embodiments, cup portion <NUM> may include one or more interior layers disposed on a back surface of frontal layer <NUM>. In one embodiment, as shown for example in <FIG>, one or more interior layers of cup portion <NUM> includes a first interior layer <NUM> comprising a first surface disposed against back surface of frontal layer <NUM> and configured to define the cup mold of first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM>. In various embodiments, first interior layer <NUM> may be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, first interior layer <NUM> is comprised of polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyester, polyamide, polyethylene (PE), PE foam, polyurethane (PU) foam, elastane, co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In one embodiment, first interior layer <NUM> comprises a blend of polyester in a arrange. In various embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first interior layer <NUM> covers the entire first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM>. In some embodiments, first interior layer <NUM> extends continuously between all sides of cup portion <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, cup portion <NUM> may include a second interior layer <NUM> comprising a front surface disposed against a back surface of first interior layer <NUM> or frontal layer <NUM>. Second interior layer <NUM> is disposed in center section <NUM>, first side section <NUM>, and second side section <NUM> and displaced from first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM>, such that first interior layer <NUM> is exposed along first cup section <NUM> and second cup section. In various embodiments, second interior layer <NUM> may be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, second interior layer <NUM> comprises a rigid material so that second interior layer <NUM> may cradle first cup section <NUM> and second cup section <NUM>. In some embodiments, second interior layer comprises a laminated polymeric material.

In various embodiments, base portion <NUM> is disposed along bottom edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> and configured to stretch along a torso of the user to support cup portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, base portion <NUM> is band-shaped and extends in a lateral direction along torso of the user between a first side edge <NUM> and a second side edge <NUM>. In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, base portion <NUM> includes an upper edge <NUM> that extends contiguously along bottom edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>, where the base portion <NUM> and cup portion <NUM> are joined together. In some embodiments, upper edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> is joined with bottom edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> by any suitable process, such as adhesive bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a piece of elastic trim may be sewn or bonded to the intersection between upper edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and bottom edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>. Base portion <NUM> terminates at a bottom edge <NUM> extending from first side edge <NUM> to second side edge <NUM>. The length of base portion <NUM> is limited in the lateral direction such that the base portion <NUM> is not configured to circumvent the entire torso of the user. When sports garment <NUM> is worn by the user, first side edge <NUM> and second side edge <NUM> are configured to terminate along sides or latissimus muscle of the user.

In various embodiments, as shown for example in <FIG>, base portion <NUM> may include a first fastening section <NUM> disposed on a front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and a second fastening section <NUM> disposed on front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, where the first fastening section <NUM> is spatially separated from second fastening section <NUM> along the length of the base portion <NUM>. In the illustrate embodiment, first fastening section <NUM> is disposed proximate to first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, and second fastening section <NUM> is disposed proximate to second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, first fastening section <NUM> and second fastening section <NUM> are equally spaced apart from first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> by a predetermined distance (for example, based on the size of the garment). In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first fastening section <NUM> and second fastening section <NUM> are hook straps of a hook-and-loop fastener. However, in some embodiments, first fastening section <NUM> and second fastening section <NUM> may include any other suitable fastener, such as a series of holes to receive a hook, loops to catch a button, clips to connect with a corresponding clip, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, a single fastening section may be used, and may extend along base portion <NUM> from proximate to first side edge <NUM> to proximate second side edge <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of some of the layers of materials used for constructing base portion <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, base portion <NUM> includes a seamless frontal layer <NUM> extending continuously between all sides of base portion <NUM> without any gaps or interruptions. In various embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> may be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> is comprised of an elastomer material so that frontal layer <NUM> may stretch and conform to the contour of the user's torso. In some embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> comprises a polymeric material, such as polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyethylene (PE), and co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In some embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> comprises a blend of polyamide in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>% and elastane in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>%. In some embodiments, frontal layer <NUM> of base portion <NUM> comprises the same material or polymeric layer as frontal layer <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, base portion <NUM> may include one or more interior layers disposed flushed against a back surface frontal layer <NUM> and joined together by any suitable process, such as adhesive bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof. The one or more interior layers of base portion <NUM> may be comprised of an elastomer material. In some embodiments, the one or more interior layers of base portion <NUM> comprises a polymeric material, such as polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyethylene (PE), and co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In some embodiments, the one or more interior layers of base portion <NUM> is comprised of the same material as frontal layer <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first fastening section <NUM> and second fastening section <NUM> may be comprised of a synthetic fabric strap <NUM> disposed against frontal surface of frontal layer <NUM>. Fabric strip <NUM> comprises a plurality of macro-sized hooks configured to fasten to a corresponding loop strap of a hook-and-loop fastener.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in various embodiments, first strap portion <NUM> is disposed along first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, and second strap portion <NUM> disposed along second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for example, first strap portion <NUM> and second strap portion <NUM> are each configured to pivot or flex away from a back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> toward an open configuration so that the user may put on or remove sports garment <NUM> without pulling sports garment <NUM> over her head. As shown in <FIG>, for example first strap portion <NUM> and second strap portion <NUM> are each configured to pivot or flex toward a back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> toward a wrapped configuration such that first strap portion <NUM> and second strap portion <NUM> wrap around the back of the user to adjust the fit and tension of sports garment <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first strap portion <NUM> includes a first back panel <NUM> that extends contiguously along first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, where the base portion <NUM> and cup portion <NUM> are joined together. In some embodiments, first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> is joined with first back panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM> by any suitable process, such as adhesive bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, first back panel <NUM> extends in a vertical direction from a bottom edge <NUM> to an upper edge <NUM> and terminates at an intersection edge <NUM> in a lateral direction away from first side edge <NUM>. First back panel <NUM> is configured to pivot about first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> in a direction toward or away from back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. When pivoted toward back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, first back panel <NUM> is configured to cover substantially half of back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and at least a portion of first cup section <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first strap portion <NUM> includes a first shoulder strap <NUM> extending away from first back panel <NUM> in a first direction and a first side strap <NUM> extending away from first back panel <NUM> in a second direction, where first shoulder strap <NUM> and first side strap <NUM> merge at about intersection edge <NUM> of first back panel <NUM>. First shoulder strap <NUM> and first side strap <NUM> each extend continuously from first back panel <NUM> without any gaps or seams such that first strap portion <NUM> comprises a streamlined contour. In some embodiments, first shoulder strap <NUM> includes a width in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>, and first side strap <NUM> includes a width in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>. In one embodiment, first shoulder strap <NUM> includes a width of <NUM>, and first side strap <NUM> includes a width of <NUM>.

In various embodiments, second strap portion <NUM> includes a second back panel <NUM> that extends contiguously along second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, where the base portion <NUM> and cup portion <NUM> are joined together. In some embodiments, second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> is joined with second back panel <NUM> of second strap portion <NUM> by any suitable process, such as adhesive bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, second back panel <NUM> extends in a vertical direction from a bottom edge <NUM> to an upper edge <NUM> and terminates at an intersection edge <NUM> in a lateral direction away from second side edge <NUM>. Second back panel <NUM> is configured to pivot about second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> in a direction toward or away from back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. When pivoted toward back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, second back panel <NUM> is configured to cover substantially half of back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and at least a portion of second cup section <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, second strap portion <NUM> includes a first shoulder strap <NUM> extending away from second back panel <NUM> in a third direction and a second side strap <NUM> extending away from second back panel <NUM> in a fourth direction, where second shoulder strap <NUM> and second side strap <NUM> merge at about intersection edge <NUM> of second back panel <NUM>. Second shoulder strap <NUM> and second side strap <NUM> each extend continuously from second back panel <NUM> without any gaps or seams such that second strap portion <NUM> comprises a streamlined contour. In some embodiments, second shoulder strap <NUM> includes a width in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>, and second side strap <NUM> includes a width in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>. In one embodiment, second shoulder strap <NUM> includes a width of <NUM>, and second side strap <NUM> includes a width of <NUM>.

In various embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first shoulder strap <NUM> and second shoulder strap <NUM> are configured to intersect each other along the back of the user and hang over a shoulder of the user. First shoulder strap <NUM> and second shoulder strap <NUM> each include a fastener <NUM>, <NUM> such that the first shoulder strap <NUM> and second shoulder strap <NUM> may be removably coupled to cup portion <NUM>. Fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> are each configured to allow the length of first shoulder strap <NUM> and <NUM> to be modified to adjust the tension and fit of sports garment <NUM>.

In some embodiments, first shoulder strap <NUM> is configured to pass through a slot <NUM> disposed on cup portion <NUM> proximate to second shoulder edge <NUM>, and second shoulder strap <NUM> is configured to pass through a slot <NUM> disposed on cup portion <NUM> proximate to first shoulder edge <NUM>. In some embodiments, fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> are each a hook-and-loop fastener comprising a hook strap disposed proximate to a distal end <NUM>, <NUM> of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> and a loop strap disposed adjacent to the hook strap. However, in some embodiments, fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> may include any other suitable fastener, such as a series of holes to receive a hook, loops to catch a button, clips to connect with a corresponding clip, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise hook-and-loop fasteners disposed along an exterior surface of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise hook-and-loop fasteners disposed along an interior surface of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first shoulder strap <NUM> may include a hemmed tab <NUM> disposed at distal end <NUM> of first side strap <NUM> to secure fastener <NUM> to first shoulder strap <NUM>, and second shoulder strap <NUM> may include a hemmed tab <NUM> disposed at distal end <NUM> of second side strap <NUM> to secure second fastening member <NUM> to second side strap <NUM>. In various embodiments, hemmed tabs <NUM>, <NUM> each extend contiguously from the distal end <NUM>, <NUM> of their respective shoulder strap <NUM>, <NUM> such that hemmed tabs <NUM>, <NUM> and first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> form a streamlined contour.

In various embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first side strap <NUM> includes a first fastening member <NUM> configured to be removably coupled to second fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM> to adjust tension and fit of sports garment <NUM>, and second side strap <NUM> includes a second fastening member <NUM> configured to be removably coupled to first fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM> to adjust tension and fit of sports garment <NUM>. In embodiments, first fastening member <NUM> and second fastening member <NUM> are each a loop strip of the hook-and-loop fastener. However, in other embodiments, first fastening member <NUM> and second fastening member <NUM> may include any other suitable fastener, such as a series of holes to receive a hook, loops to catch a button, clips to connect with a corresponding clip, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first side strap <NUM> may include a hemmed tab <NUM> disposed at a distal end <NUM> of first side strap <NUM> to secure first fastening member <NUM> to first side strap <NUM>, and second side strap <NUM> may include a hemmed tab <NUM> disposed at a distal end <NUM> of second side strap <NUM> to secure second fastening member <NUM> to second side strap <NUM>. In various embodiments, hemmed tabs <NUM>, <NUM> each extend contiguously from the distal end <NUM>, <NUM> of their respective side strap <NUM>, <NUM> such that hemmed tabs <NUM>, <NUM> and first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM> form a streamlined contour.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, first side strap <NUM> and second side strap <NUM> are each configured to flex between an open position (e.g., <FIG>) and a wrapped position (e.g., <FIG>). When first side strap <NUM> and second side strap <NUM> are set at the open position, a distal end <NUM> of first side strap <NUM> is moved away from second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, and a distal end <NUM> of second side strap <NUM> is moved away from first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. When first side strap <NUM> is set at the wrapped position, distal end <NUM> of first side strap <NUM> is pulled across second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, and first fastening member <NUM> is fastened to second fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. When second side strap <NUM> is set at the wrapped position, distal end <NUM> of second side strap <NUM> is pulled across first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>, and second fastening member <NUM> is fastened to first fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of some of the layers of different materials used for constructing first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of some of the layers of different materials used for constructing first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown <FIG>, for example, first strap portion <NUM> includes a seamless frontal layer <NUM> extending continuously between all edges of first strap portion <NUM>, including the first shoulder strap <NUM> and first side strap <NUM>, without any gaps or interruptions, and second strap portion <NUM> includes a seamless frontal layer <NUM> extending continuously between all edges of second strap portion <NUM>, including the first shoulder strap <NUM> and the second side strap <NUM>, without any gaps or interruptions. In various embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> may each be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each comprised of an elastomer material so that frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> may stretch and conform to the contour of the user's torso. In some embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a polymeric material, such as polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyethylene (PE), and co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In some embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a blend of polyamide in a range between <NUM>-<NUM> % and elastane in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>%.

In various embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> of first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> comprise the same materials as frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM>. In various embodiments, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM> of first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> each extend contiguously with frontal layer <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Accordingly, frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of each portion of sports garment <NUM> extend contiguously with each other such that sports garment <NUM> may be formed as a single piece sports bra comprising a streamlined contour.

As shown in <FIG>, for example, first shoulder strap <NUM> and second shoulder strap <NUM> may each include one or more interior layers disposed on a back surface of their respective frontal layer <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, one or more interior layers of first shoulder strap <NUM> may include a first interior layer <NUM> and a second interior layer <NUM>, and one or more interior layers of second shoulder strap <NUM> may include a first interior layer <NUM> and a second interior layer <NUM>. In various embodiments, first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a first surface disposed against back surface of their respective frontal layer <NUM>, <NUM>. In various embodiments, second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a front surface disposed against a back surface of their respective first interior layer <NUM>, <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first interior layers <NUM>,<NUM> and second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> may each be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer. In various embodiments, first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> and second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each comprised of polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyester, polyamide, polyethylene (PE), PE foam, polyurethane (PU) foam, elastane, co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In one embodiment, first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> are ach comprised entirely of polyamide.

As shown in <FIG>, for example, first side strap <NUM> and second side strap <NUM> may each include one or more interior layers disposed on a back surface of their respective frontal layer <NUM>, <NUM>. In one embodiment, one or more interior layers of first side strap <NUM> includes a first interior layer <NUM> and a second interior layer <NUM>. In one embodiment, one or more interior layers of second side strap <NUM> includes a first interior layer <NUM> and a second interior layer <NUM>. In various embodiments, first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a first surface disposed against back surface of their respective frontal layers <NUM>, <NUM>. In various embodiments, second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a front surface disposed against a back surface of their respective first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM>.

In various embodiments, first interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> may each be a bonding film. In various embodiments, second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> may each be a be a woven, non-woven, or knitted polymeric layer adhered to their respective frontal layer <NUM>, <NUM> via the bonding film of their respective first interior layer <NUM>, <NUM>. In various embodiments, second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each comprised of polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyester, polyamide, polyethylene (PE), PE foam, polyurethane (PU) foam, elastane, co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In one embodiment, second interior layers <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise the same material as their respective frontal layer <NUM>, <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, first fastening member <NUM> may comprise a synthetic fabric strap <NUM> disposed against exterior surface of frontal surface <NUM>, and second fastening member <NUM> may comprise a synthetic fabric strap <NUM> disposed against exterior surface of frontal layer <NUM>. Fabric strips <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise a plurality of macro-sized loops configured to fasten to a corresponding hook strap of a hook-and-loop fastener.

In various embodiments, any of the edges of cup portion <NUM>, base portion <NUM>, first strap portion <NUM>, and second strap portion <NUM> may be reinforced by any suitable process, such as bonding, bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, edges of cup portion <NUM>, base portion <NUM>, first strap portion <NUM>, and second strap portion <NUM> are reinforced by bonding tape.

Referring to <FIG>, sports garment <NUM> may further include a slot <NUM> configured to receive one of the first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, slot <NUM> is disposed on first panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM>, where slot <NUM> is proximate to first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and configured to receive second side strap <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> is disposed on second panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM>, where slot <NUM> is proximate to second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> and configured to receive first side strap <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> is disposed on base portion <NUM> between first fastening section <NUM> and first side edge <NUM>, where slot <NUM> is configured to receive second side strap <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> is disposed on base portion <NUM> between second fastening section <NUM> and second side edge <NUM>, where slot <NUM> is configured to receive first side strap <NUM>.

Whether located on base portion <NUM>, first side strap portion <NUM>, or second side strap portion <NUM>, slot <NUM> is disposed proximate to one of first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> to receive a side strap extending from an opposite edge of the base portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, by being disposed proximate to first side edge <NUM> and receiving side strap <NUM>, slot <NUM> allows side strap <NUM> of second strap portion <NUM> to extend behind first back panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM>, thereby allowing the first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> to overlap each other continuously along the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> may be disposed proximate to second side edge <NUM> and configured to receive side strap <NUM>, such that side strap <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM> extends behind second back panel <NUM> of second strap portion <NUM>.

In some embodiments, slot <NUM> is spatially separated from one of first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> by a predetermined distance in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>. In one embodiment, slot <NUM> is spatially separated from one of the first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> by a predetermined distance of <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the location of slot <NUM> with respect to one of first and second edges <NUM>, <NUM> of base portion <NUM> is selected to allow first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> to overlap each other continuously along the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> when first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM> are set in the wrapped position. In the context of the present disclosure, the continuous overlap between the first and strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> along the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> includes the base portion <NUM>, first strap portion <NUM>, and second strap portion <NUM> forming a complete, encircled band not interrupted by any void spaces. By overlapping each other continuously along the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> while set in a wrapped configuration, first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> ensure that the sports garment <NUM> may be wrapped around the torso of the user with sufficient tension, thereby providing maximum support for the breasts of the user.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, for example, slot <NUM> extends parallel with respect to one of first and second side edges <NUM>, <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> may extend in any direction suitable for receiving one of first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> may have a height in a range between <NUM>-<NUM>. In one embodiment, slot <NUM> has a height of <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the contour of slot <NUM> may be reinforced with one or more layers of material suitable for maintaining the integrity of the slot <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more layers may comprise a polymeric material, such as polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyethylene (PE), and co-polymers or polymer blends including one or more these polymers. In some embodiments, the one or more layers may be joined along the contour of slot <NUM> by any suitable process, such as adhesive bonding, knitting, stitching, sowing, threading, weaving, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> illustrate a sports garment <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>, sports garment <NUM> includes a cup portion <NUM>, a base portion <NUM>, a first strap portion <NUM>, and a second strap portion <NUM> that may include all the same or similar features of the embodiments described above.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, cup portion <NUM> may extend higher in the vertical direction along the chest of the user, and sports garment <NUM> may further includes a coupling unit <NUM> extending along cup portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM> in a vertical direction, bifurcating cup portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM> into a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM> that are removably coupled together.

In some embodiments, first segment <NUM> includes first strap portion <NUM> and a first half segment of cup portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM>, and second segment <NUM> includes second strap portion <NUM> and a second half segment of cup portion <NUM> and base portion <NUM>. First segment <NUM> includes a mating edge <NUM> extending from neckline edge <NUM> of cup portion to bottom edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Second segment <NUM> includes a mating edge <NUM> extending from neckline edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> to bottom edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

In one embodiment, coupling unit <NUM> comprises a zipper member and a pair of zipper lines disposed on mating edges <NUM>, <NUM> of first and second segments <NUM>, <NUM> to removably couple first and second segments <NUM>, <NUM> together. In some embodiments, coupling unit <NUM> may comprise other types of fasteners suitable for removably coupling first and second segments <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a detailed view of coupling unit <NUM> according one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, coupling unit <NUM> may include a first zipper line <NUM> disposed along a first mating edge <NUM> of a first segment <NUM> and a second zipper line <NUM> disposed along a second mating edge <NUM> of a second segment <NUM> and configured to mate with first zipper line <NUM>. Coupling unit <NUM> may include a zipper member <NUM> coupled to first zipper line <NUM> and configured to couple second zipper line <NUM> with a first zipper line <NUM> so that the first and second mating edges <NUM>, <NUM> are coupled together and extend contiguously with each other.

In some embodiments, coupling <NUM> may further include a zipper flap <NUM> extending from second mating edge <NUM> of second segment <NUM>, a loop <NUM> connected to the first mating edge <NUM> of the first segment <NUM>, and a hook <NUM> connected to the second mating edge <NUM> of second segment <NUM> and configured to be removably coupled to the loop <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a sequence of steps for securing the sports garment <NUM> to a user, and <FIG> show a flow chart of an exemplary method <NUM> for securing the sports garment <NUM> to a user.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of flexing first strap portion <NUM> and second strap portion <NUM> to an open configuration, wherein first and second strap portions <NUM>, <NUM> do not extend across the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> such that the back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> is exposed to receive the torso of the user. Step <NUM> may include pivoting first and second back panels <NUM>, <NUM> away from back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include flexing or pulling first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM> to an open position, as shown in <FIG>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of placing back surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM> against the chest of user. Step <NUM> may include placing cup portion <NUM> over the breasts of user and flexing first and second arm edges <NUM>, <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> outward so that cup portion <NUM> covers the breasts of the user.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of pulling first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> over the shoulders of user, such that first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> cross each other along a back of the user. Step <NUM> may include pulling first shoulder strap <NUM> toward second shoulder edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM> and pulling second shoulder strap <NUM> toward first shoulder edge <NUM> of cup portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of coupling first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> to cup portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include passing first shoulder strap <NUM> through slot <NUM> proximate to second shoulder edge <NUM>, and subsequently, attaching the loop strap to the hook strap of fastener <NUM> so that first shoulder strap <NUM> is secured to cup portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include passing second shoulder strap <NUM> through slot <NUM> proximate to first shoulder edge <NUM>, and subsequently, attaching the loop strap to the hook strap of fastener <NUM> so that the second shoulder strap <NUM> is secured to cup portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a state in method <NUM> after the completion of steps <NUM>-<NUM>, in which sports garment <NUM> is received on the shoulders of the user and partially wrapped around the torso of the user. As shown in <FIG>, for example, first shoulder strap <NUM> crosses second shoulder strap <NUM> along the back of user, and first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> hang over the shoulders of the user and are coupled to cup portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of pulling second side strap <NUM> of second strap portion <NUM> behind first back panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM> and through slot <NUM>, such that distal end <NUM> of second side strap <NUM> extends past first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may further include pulling first side strap <NUM> away from the back of user to allow second side strap <NUM> easily slip behind first back panel <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of coupling second fastening member <NUM> disposed on second side strap <NUM> to first fastening section <NUM> disposed on front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include adjusting the tension of second side strap <NUM> by repositioning second fastening member <NUM> along first fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a state in method <NUM> after the completion of steps <NUM>-<NUM>, in which second side strap <NUM> is secured to front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for example, second side strap <NUM> extends behind first back panel <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM> and is received through slot <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of pulling first side strap <NUM> of first strap portion <NUM> over second back panel <NUM> of second strap portion <NUM> and past second side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of coupling first fastening member <NUM> disposed on first side strap <NUM> to second fastening section <NUM> disposed on front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include adjusting the tension of second side strap <NUM> by repositioning second fastening member <NUM> along first fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a state in method <NUM> during the process of step <NUM>, in which the user is coupling first side strap <NUM> to front surface <NUM> of base portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for example, distal end <NUM> of first side strap <NUM> extends beyond first side edge <NUM> of base portion <NUM> such that first fastening member <NUM> is proximate to second fastening section <NUM> of base portion <NUM>.

In various embodiments, method <NUM> may include a step <NUM> of adjusting tension and fit of sports garment <NUM> against the torso of the user. Step <NUM> may include modifying the length of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> to increase or reduce the tension of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM>. Step <NUM> may include reducing the length of first and second shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> to provide further lift to the breasts of the user. Step <NUM> may include modifying the positioning of the first and second fastening members <NUM>, <NUM> on first and second fastening sections <NUM>, <NUM> to adjust the tension of first and second side straps <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a state in method <NUM> during the process of step <NUM>, in which the user is adjusting the tension and fit of sports garment <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for example, the length of shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> may be modified by repositioning the loop strap on the hook strap of fasteners <NUM>, <NUM>. Shortening the length of shoulder straps <NUM>, <NUM> provide more lift against the breasts of user, thereby maximizing support of the breasts.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention(s) that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

Claim 1:
A sports bra comprising:
a cup portion (<NUM>) configured to receive and conform to breasts of a user;
a base portion (<NUM>) disposed along a bottom edge (<NUM>) of the cup portion (<NUM>) and configured to stretch along a torso of the user to support the cup portion (<NUM>), the base portion (<NUM>) comprising a front surface and a back surface (<NUM>);
a first strap portion (<NUM>) disposed along a first side edge (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>), the first strap portion (<NUM>) comprising a first side strap (<NUM>) configured to be removably fastened to the front surface (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>) to adjust tension of the sports bra;
a second strap portion (<NUM>) disposed along a second side edge (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>), the second strap portion (<NUM>) comprising a second side strap (<NUM>) configured to be removably fastened to the front surface (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>) to adjust tension of the sports bra; and
a slot (<NUM>) disposed on the sports bra and configured to receive one of the first and second side straps (<NUM>; <NUM>), wherein the first and second side straps (<NUM>; <NUM>) are configured to flex between an open position and a wrapped position, wherein when the first and second side straps (<NUM>; <NUM>) are set in the wrapped position, one of the first and second side straps (<NUM>; <NUM>) is received through the slot (<NUM>) such that first and second strap portions (<NUM>; <NUM>) continuously overlap each other along the back surface (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>) to wrap around a back of the user, wherein when the first and second side straps (<NUM>; <NUM>) are set in the open position, the first and second strap portions (<NUM>; <NUM>) do not overlap each other along the back surface (<NUM>) of the base such that the back surface (<NUM>) of the base portion (<NUM>) is exposed to receive the torso of the user.