U.S. patent application number 11/745742 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-29 for cycling garment.
This patent application is currently assigned to Shimano Inc.. Invention is credited to Shinpei Okajima.
Application Number | 20070271671 11/745742 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38748136 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070271671 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Okajima; Shinpei |
November 29, 2007 |
CYCLING GARMENT
Abstract
A cycling garment or bicycle jersey is provided with a front
panel, a back panel, and a pair of sleeve sections. The back panel
has a first back section at least partially made of a first fabric,
and a pair of second back sections attached to the first back
section in first and second regions being at least partially
located outside of first and second areas corresponding to a
wearer's shoulder blades when the cycling garment worn. The second
back sections are made of a second fabric that is more flexible
than the first fabric. The sleeve sections attached to the front
and back panels.
Inventors: |
Okajima; Shinpei; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GLOBAL IP COUNSELORS, LLP
1233 20TH STREET, NW, SUITE 700
WASHINGTON
DC
20036-2680
US
|
Assignee: |
Shimano Inc.
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
38748136 |
Appl. No.: |
11/745742 |
Filed: |
May 8, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/69 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 1/04 20130101; A41D
2600/104 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/69 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/00 20060101
A41D013/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 11, 2006 |
JP |
2006-132618 |
Claims
1. A cycling garment comprising: a front panel; a back panel
including a first back section at least partially made of a first
fabric, and a pair of second back sections attached to the first
back section in first and second regions being at least partially
located outside of first and second areas corresponding to a
wearer's shoulder blades when the cycling garment worn, the second
back sections being made of a second fabric that is more flexible
than the first fabric; and a pair of sleeve sections attached to
the front and back panels.
2. The cycling garment according to claim 1, wherein the front
panel is at least partially made of the first fabric.
3. The cycling garment according to claim 1, wherein the sleeve
sections are at least partially made of the first fabric.
4. The cycling garment according to claim 1, wherein the second
back sections are attached to an upper section of the first back
section, respectively.
5. The cycling garment according to claim 1, further comprising a
pair of side pieces being at least partially made of the second
fabric, with the side pieces joining the front and back panels
together downward from along positions corresponding to armpits,
respectively.
6. The cycling garment according to claim 5, wherein each of the
sleeve sections includes a main sleeve part made of the first
fabric, and a side-connecting part made of the second fabric, with
the side-connecting parts connecting the main sleeve parts under
the armpits, respectively.
7. The cycling garment according to claim 6, wherein each of the
side pieces includes an upper side piece made of the second fabric
integrated with the side-connecting section, and a lower side piece
made of the first fabric, with the lower side pieces arranged under
and sewn to the upper side pieces, respectively.
8. The cycling garment according to claim 5, wherein the second
fabric includes a mesh material with ventilation holes.
9. The cycling garment according to claim 8, wherein the
ventilation holes in the second fabric of the second back section
are smaller than the mesh holes in the second fabric of the upper
side piece.
10. The cycling garment according to claim 1, wherein the front
panel includes right and left sections with a slide fastener
arranged at dividing edges of the right and left sections of the
front panel to selectively join and separate the right and left
sections with respect to each other.
11. The cycling garment according to claim 1, wherein the first and
second fabrics are made of blended polyester fibers having a high
tear-resistance and flexible polyester elastic fibers, with a
polyester elastic fiber count of the second fabric being higher
than that of the first fabric.
12. The cycling garment according to claim 2, wherein the sleeve
sections are at least partially made of the first fabric.
13. The cycling garment according to claim 2, wherein the second
back sections are attached to an upper section on both sides of the
first back section.
14. The cycling garment according to claim 2, further comprising a
pair of side pieces being at least partially made of the second
fabric, with the side pieces joining the front and back panels
together downward from along positions corresponding to armpits,
respectively.
15. The cycling garment according to claim 14, wherein each of the
sleeve sections includes a main sleeve part made of the first
fabric, and a side-connecting part made of the second fabric, with
the side-connecting parts connecting the main sleeve parts under
the armpits, respectively.
16. The cycling garment according to claim 15, wherein each of the
side pieces includes an upper side piece made of the second fabric
integrated with the side-connecting section, and a lower side piece
made of the first fabric, with the lower side pieces arranged under
and sewn to the upper side pieces, respectively.
17. The cycling garment according to claim 14, wherein the second
fabric includes a mesh material with ventilation holes.
18. The cycling garment according to claim 17, wherein the
ventilation holes in the second fabric of the second back section
are smaller than the mesh holes in the second fabric of the upper
side piece.
19. The cycling garment according to claim 2, wherein the front
panel includes right and left sections with a slide fastener
arranged at dividing edges of the right and left sections of the
front panel to selectively join and detach the right and left
sections with respect to each other.
20. The cycling garment according to claim 2, wherein the first and
second fabrics are made of blended polyester fibers having a high
tear-resistance and flexible polyester elastic fibers, with a
polyester elastic fiber count of the second fabric being higher
than that of the first fabric.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119
to Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-132618, filed May 11, 2006.
The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No.
2006-132618 is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention generally relates to sports clothing such as
a cycling garment or bicycle jersey. More specifically, the present
invention relates to a bicycle riding outfit for a rider to wear
when riding a bicycle.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] Cycling is becoming an increasingly more popular form of
recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, cycling
has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and
professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation,
transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly
improving the apparel worn by casual cyclists and serious cycling
enthusiasts alike.
[0006] Cycling apparel, such jerseys are well known. Cycling
jerseys are typically worn by cyclists when riding in both amateur
and professional competitions, such as a road race or an off-road
mountain trail course race. Many conventional cycling jerseys are
produced with designs that include raglan sleeves. Such a jersey is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,877. The conventional cycling
jersey is constructed with front and back panels with a gentle
curve on both upper sections, and a pair of right and left sleeves
attached to the front and back panels. Each of the sleeve is formed
by a sleeve panel or section having a cuff or sleeve edge, a
neckline or edge, a pair of sleeve forming portions and a pair of
suture or sewn portions. The neckline and the cuff of each of the
sleeve sections are formed at opposite ends of the sleeve panel.
The sleeve forming portions extend at least part way from the
sleeve edge and toward the neck portion. The sewn portions extend
from respective ones of the sleeve-forming sections to the neckline
where they are sewn to the upper section of the front and back
panels on both sides. The cuff of the sleeve section on each side
faces downward.
[0007] On the conventional bicycle jersey, the cuffs of the sleeve
sections face downward on the sides in an unstretched state.
However, the problem is that when a cyclist is riding, the cyclist
assumes a riding posture where the cyclist leans forward and the
rider's arms are extended forward to grasp the handlebar of the
bicycle. In particular, drop handlebars on a road racer or a
straight handlebar in a mountain bicycle require the cyclist's
upper arms to extend outward approximately perpendicular to the
cyclist's torso and forearms extend forward toward the handlebar.
Therefore, the cuffs face the front body. Consequently, the sleeves
are pulled back towards the shoulder and become tight, thereby
making it uncomfortable to wear.
[0008] In view of the above, it will be apparent to those skilled
in the art from this disclosure that there exists a need for an
improved cycling garment. This invention addresses this need in the
art as well as other needs, which will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] One object of the present invention is to provide a cycling
garment that improves the comfort level of a cyclist wearing
cycling garment when the cyclist is either in a riding posture
holding a bicycle handlebar or walking.
[0010] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a
cycling garment is provided that basically comprises a front panel,
a back panel, and a pair of sleeve sections. The back panel
includes a first back section at least partially made of a first
fabric, and a pair of second back sections attached to the first
back section in first and second regions being at least partially
located outside of first and second areas corresponding to a
wearer's shoulder blades when the cycling garment worn. The second
back sections being made of a second fabric that is more flexible
than the first fabric. The sleeves are attached to both the front
and back panels.
[0011] This bicycle riding outfit uses the second fabric that is
more flexible than the first fabric on the second back section,
which is at least partially arranged in the first and second
regions outside the first and second positions where the wearer's
shoulder blades contact the inner edge. When the wearer's arms are
extended forward or lowered down to the side, the second fabric
moves more dynamically than that of the other sections since the
edge of the shoulder blade moves more than other sections of the
back. Since the second back section made of the flexible second
fabric is arranged in the first and second regions outside the
first and second positions where the shoulder blades contact the
inner edge, when the arms are extended forward while riding, the
second back section stretches more than the other sections, making
it harder for the sleeves to be pulled back, thereby not feeling
tight and making the outfit comfortable to wear. Also, when the
arms are lowered down on the side as one walks, the second back
section contracts and there is no slackness or tightness at the
shoulder, thereby improving comfort. In this case, when the arms
are extended forward while riding or lowered down on the sides
while walking, the second back section stretches more than the
other sections, preventing slackness or tightness, and thereby
improving the comfort while riding or walking.
[0012] With regard to the cycling garment according to a second
aspect of the present invention, at least the front panel is
partially made of the first fabric in the cycling garment according
to the first aspect of the present invention. In this case, since
the front panel is not as flexible as the second back section, the
front panel does not stretch when worn.
[0013] With regard to the cycling garment according to a third
aspect of the present invention, at least the sleeves are partially
made of the first fabric in the cycling garment according to the
first or second aspect of the present invention. In this case,
since the sleeves are not as flexible as the second back section,
the sleeves do not stretch when worn.
[0014] With regard to the cycling garment according to a fourth
aspect of the present invention, the second back sections are each
attached to the upper section of the first back section
respectively, in the cycling garment according to the first to
third aspects of the present invention. In this case, the
stretchable section is positioned outside the first and second
positions where the shoulder blades contact the inner edge, thereby
making it comfortable to wear for riders with a variety of body
frames.
[0015] With regard to the cycling garment according to a fifth
aspect of the present invention, the cycling garment according to
the first to fourth aspects of the present invention further
comprises a pair of side pieces being at least partially made of
the second fabric, with the side pieces joining the front and back
panels together downward from along positions corresponding to
armpits, respectively. In this case, the side pieces arranged
between the front and back panels are flexible when the arms are
extended forward or lowered down to the side, and at least the side
pieces partially stretch, thereby further improving comfort.
[0016] With regard to the cycling garment according to a sixth
aspect of the present invention, the sleeves comprise a main sleeve
section made of the first fabric and the side-connecting section
made of the second fabric to connect the main sleeve section under
the armpit in the cycling garment according to the first to fifth
aspects of the present invention. In this case, the armpit end of
the sleeve stretches easily and the sleeve resists being pulled
back, thereby further improving comfort.
[0017] With regard to the cycling garment according to a seventh
aspect of the present invention, the side piece in the outfit
according to according to the sixth aspect of the present invention
comprises upper side pieces made of the second fabric that are
integrated with the side-connecting sections, and lower side pieces
made of the first fabric arranged under and sewn to the upper side
pieces. In this case, when the arms are moved, as with the section
covering the shoulder blade, the section extending from the armpit
on the side moves dynamically and stretches easily, thereby further
improving comfort.
[0018] With regard to the cycling garment according to an eighth
aspect of the present invention, the second fabric comprises the
mesh in the cycling garment according to the fifth to seventh
aspects of the present invention. In this case, breathability is
improved in the side pieces or the sleeve sections arranged in the
armpit sections, which tend to perspire.
[0019] With regard to the cycling garment according to a ninth
aspect of the present invention, the mesh holes in the second
fabric used for the second back section are smaller than the mesh
holes in the second fabric used for the upper side pieces in the
cycling garment according to the eighth aspect of the present
invention. In this case it is possible to improve breathability of
the upper side pieces due to having larger mesh holes than those of
the second back section.
[0020] With regard to the cycling garment according to a tenth
aspect of the present invention, the front panel is divided into
right and left sections, which further comprise a fastener arranged
at the dividing edged to selectively join and separate the dividing
edged of the front panel of the cycling garment according to the
first to ninth aspects of the present invention. In this case, even
in an outfit wherein the front opens to make it easy to put on and
take off, the fastener-joined section resists stretching and the
second back section stretches easily, thereby improving comfort
while riding or walking.
[0021] With regard to the cycling garment according to an eleventh
aspect of the present invention, the first and second fabrics are
fabric wherein a polyester fiber having high tear-resistance is
blended with a flexible polyester elastic fiber (spandex), the
second fabric having a higher count of higher polyester elastic
fibers than the second fabric in the cycling garment according to
the first to tenth aspects of the present invention. In this case,
it is possible to obtain the advantageous effect of the present
invention without greatly changing the materials of the first and
second fabrics.
[0022] According to the present invention, when the arms are
extended forward while riding or lowered down to the sides while
walking, the second back section stretches more than the other
sections, resisting slackness or tightness and thereby improving
comfort while riding or walking.
[0023] These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of
the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the
art from the following detailed description, which, taken in
conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of
this original disclosure:
[0025] FIG. 1 is a front side elevational view of a cycling garment
for bicycle riding in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 is a back side elevational view of the cycling
garment illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with the illustrated
embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 3 is a back side elevational view, similar to FIG. 2,
of the cycling garment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 with the
arrangement of a second back section shown by diagonal lines;
[0028] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the various sections of the
cycling garment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 after they have been
cut from fabric using pattern paper and prior to being sewn
together; and
[0029] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a bicycle and a cyclist
with the cyclist in a riding posture wearing the bicycling jersey
in accordance with the present invention; and
[0030] FIG. 6 is a back side elevational view, similar to FIG. 2,
of a cycling garment for bicycle riding accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0031] Selected embodiments of the present invention will now be
explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to
those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following
descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention are
provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting
the invention as defined by the appended claims and their
equivalents.
[0032] Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, a cycling garment or
bicycle jersey 10 of a bicycle riding outfit is illustrated in
accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. The
bicycle jersey 10 is primarily an outfit to be worn for riding a
bicycle for the purpose of sport riding, such as a road racer or a
mountain bike. The bicycle jersey 10 is a short sleeve jersey with
raglan sleeves extending down and opening at the cuff. The bicycle
jersey 10 includes a pair of (right and left) front panel sections
21 and 22, a back panel 23, a pair of (right and left) sleeve
sections 24 and 25, a pair of (right and left) side pieces or
sections 26 and 27 arranged between the front panel sections 21 and
22 and the back panel 23, and a collar section 30. The side
sections 26 and 27 are arranged between the front panel sections 21
and 22 and the back panel 23. Each of these sections and the panel
23 are attached together, typically by sewing.
[0033] At a lower portion of the back panel 23, a pocket 31 is
formed for carrying items such as a water bottle, etc. Further, the
front panel sections 21 and 22 are each attached to respective
portions of a mechanical zipper or slide fastener 32 that allows
joining and separation of the front panels 21 and 22.
[0034] Next, the shape of each section above, other than the
fastener 32, will be explained with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4
illustrates the shape after the patterns are placed, for example,
on the breathable and flexible polyester knit fabric to cut each
section. In FIG. 4, the outer right side of each section is
visible. A thin line on the outer circumference of each section is
the sewing or folding line and the distance from the sewing or
folding line to the outer circumference is the seam allowance or
folding allowance.
[0035] Next, the individual panels of the bicycle jersey 10 will
now described individually with specific reference to FIG. 4. FIG.
4 illustrates each of the separate panels that are sewn together to
form the cycling jersey 10 in a layout corresponding to cutouts
from fabric. The panels of the bicycle jersey 10 can be cut from
any of a variety of fabric materials, such as a polyester material,
that includes a mesh configuration that is able to breathe or vent
moisture. The panels of the bicycle jersey 10 are preferably cut
out using a pre-configured pattern such that the panels shown in
FIG. 3 are obtained. The panels of the bicycle jersey 10 shown in
FIG. 4 are laid out such that an outward side of the cut material
is shown. Specifically, the panels of the bicycle jersey 10
depicted in FIG. 4 subsequently form the outer side of the garment.
It should be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that
the additional flaps of material around the periphery of each panel
of the bicycle jersey 10 and the corresponding line spaced slightly
apart from the periphery of each panel represents a suture line, a
fold line or sewing line where adjacent panels of the bicycle
jersey 10 are joined. More specifically, the lines are spaced
slightly apart from the periphery of each panel to provide seam
allowance or folding allowance. Thus, these lines represent
preferred locations of seams between adjacent panels of the bicycle
jersey 10.
[0036] The front panel sections 21 and 22 are preferably made of
fabric containing a polyester fiber with high tear-resistance
blended with polyester elastic fiber (spandex). The front panel
sections 21 and 22 are symmetrical pieces as illustrated on the
lower section on both sides in FIG. 4. The front panel sections 21
and 22 has a first sleeve sewing edge 21a, a first front-back
sewing edge 21b, a back panel sewing edge 21c, a first neckline
section 21d, and a fastener sewing edge 21e, and a front bottom
edge 21f. The front panel section 22 has a first sleeve sewing edge
22a, a first front-back sewing edge 22b, a back panel sewing edge
22c, a first neckline section 22d, a fastener sewing edge 22e, and
a front bottom edge 21f. The first sleeve sewing edges 21a and 22a
are formed to curve diagonally toward both outer upper sections and
sewn to the sleeve sections 24 and 25. The first front-back sewing
edges 21b and 22b are arranged under the first sleeve sewing edges
21a and 22a on both sides to be sewn to the side pieces 26 and 27.
The back panel sewing edges 21c and 22c are arranged inside the
first sleeve sewing edges 21a and 22a to be sewn to the back panel
23. Also, the first neckline sections 21d and 22d extend circularly
from the back panel sewing edges 21c and 22c to be sewn to the
collar section 30. The fastener sewing edges 21e and 22e extend
downwardly from inside the first neckline sections 21d and 22d to
link the front bottom edges 21f and 22f that join the fastener
sewing edges 21e and 22e and the first front-back sewing edges 21b
and 22b.
[0037] The first sleeve sewing edges 21a and 22a each have a
substantially expansive S-shaped convex curve extending diagonally
downward to both sides and curving outward in the opposite
direction. The first front-back sewing edges 21b and 22b each have
a line formed to curve downward from the first sleeve sewing edges
21a and 22a, then slightly curved concavely and becoming a straight
line. The back panel sewing edges 21c and 22c each have a slight
curve. The first neckline sections 21d and 22d each have a circular
inward curve. The fastener sewing edges 21e and 22e are attached
with the slide fastener 32 (FIG. 1) to connect both the front panel
sections 21 and 22. The attaching front bottom edges 21f and 22f
each have a convex curve formed upward and outward to be joined to
the center section. This makes the jersey 10 resist bunching when
slumped over.
[0038] The back panel 23 as illustrated in FIG. 2 includes a first
back section 40 and preferably a pair of (right and left) second
back sections 41 and 42 attached to the first back section 40. The
first back section 40 is made of a first fabric having polyester
fibers with a high tear-resistance that are blended with polyester
elastic fiber (spandex).
[0039] The first back section 40 is a piece that includes a main
section of the back panel 23. The first back section 40 has a pair
of second back panel sewing edges 40a and 40b and a pair of second
front-back sewing edges 40c and 40d. The second back panel sewing
edges 40a and 40b are arranged on the upper section on both sides
to be sewn to the second back section 41 and 42. The second
front-back sewing edges 40c, 40d are joined together via the first
front-back sewing edges 21b and 22b and the side pieces 26 and 27.
The second front-back sewing edges 40c and 40d are arranged on both
outer sides below the second back panel sewing edges 40a and 40b.
The second back section 40 also has a back bottom line section 40e,
a second neckline section 40f, a neckline section 40f, and a pair
of third front-back sewing edges 40g and 40h. The back bottom line
section 40e is joined to the bottom end of the second front-back
sewing edges 40c and 40d. The second neckline section 40f is formed
to protrude from the center of the upper section. The third
front-back sewing edges 40g and 40h are sewn to the back panel
sewing edges 21c and 22c, and the sleeve sections 24 and 25.
[0040] The second back panel sewing edges 40a and 40b are
substantially formed to curve convexly inward, extending diagonally
down to both sides. The second front-back sewing edges 40c and 40d
have a slightly swollen outward curve. The back bottom line section
40e has a circular curve extending to be joined to the center.
Therefore, the back panel 23 is longer than the front panel
sections 21 and 22. Consequently, the jersey 10 can cover the pants
when slouched over. The second neckline section 40f is formed to be
circularly concave. The third front-back sewing edges 40g and 40h
are formed to gradually fall toward the first back panel sewing
edges 40a and 40b on the outside to form a slight convex curve.
[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the second back sections 41 and 42
are at least partially arranged in first and second regions R1 and
R2 that are located outside of first and second positions S1 and S2
where the wearer's shoulder blades contact the inner edge of the
seams between first back section 40 and the second back sections 40
and 41. Here, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first and second
regions R1 and R2 are regions covering the innermost position of
the first and second positions S1 and S2. The second back sections
40 and 41 are pieces made of the second fabric having a higher
count of polyester elastic fibers than the first fabric, i.e., a
higher content, and therefore are more flexible. As illustrated in
FIG. 2 the second fabric used in the second back sections 41 and 42
has a first mesh M1 preferably comprising a plurality of flat
hexagonal mesh or ventilation holes. The second back sections 41
and 42 together with the first back section 40 have a similar shape
as the back panel with an ordinary raglan sleeve. As illustrated in
FIG. 4, the second back section 41 has a second sleeve sewing edge
41a and a first back panel sewing edge 41b, while the second back
section 42 has a second sleeve sewing edge 42a and a first back
panel sewing edge 42b. The second sleeve sewing edges 41a and 42a
are arranged diagonally on the outside to be sewn to the sleeve
sections 24 and 25. The first back panel sewing edges 41b and 42b
are arranged inside and outside the positions where the shoulder
blades contact and are sewn to the upper section on both sides of
the first back section 40. The second sleeve sewing edges 41a and
42a are formed to curve convexly outward. The first back panel
sewing edges 41b and 42b are formed to curve concavely inward.
[0042] Normally, the rider's shoulder blades move to protrude from
other areas of the back. As illustrated in FIG. 3, in the second
back sections 41 and 42, the fabric moves more than the other parts
when the rider's arms are extended forward or lowered down to the
side. The highly flexible second fabric is used for the second back
sections 41 and 42 at least partially arranged in the first and
second regions R1 and R2. Therefore, when the rider's arms are
extended forward or lowered down to the side, the second back
sections 41 and 42 stretch to make the jersey comfortable to
wear.
[0043] The right and left sleeve sections 24 and 25 are shaped like
raglan sleeves that are attached to the front panel sections 21 and
22 and the back panel 23 to cover the shoulders. As illustrated in
FIG. 4, the sleeve sections 24 and 25 are symmetrical right to
left. Each of the sleeve sections 24 and 25 comprises the main
sleeve sections 44 and 45, as well as the side-connecting sections
46 and 47, which are sewn to the main sleeve sections 44 and 45
under the armpit.
[0044] The main sleeve sections 44 and 45 are preferably a piece of
the first fabric, comprising first cuff sections 44a and 45a, first
sleeve forming portions 44b and 45b, and the second sleeve forming
portions 44c and 45c curving sharply on both sides and extending to
be joined via the side-connecting sections 46 and 47, wherein the
first sewing edges 44d and 45d extend diagonally upward from the
first sleeve forming portions 44b and 45b, as in FIG. 4, to be sewn
to the first sleeve sewing edges 21a and 22a, and the second sewing
edges 44e and 45e extend diagonally upward from the second sleeve
forming portions 44c and 45c to be sewn to the second sleeve sewing
edges 40a and 41a and the third front-back sewing edges 42g,
42h.
[0045] The first cuff sections 44a and 45a form a substantially
straight line. The first sleeve forming portions 44b and 45b and
the second sleeve forming portions 44c and 45c extend from both
ends of the concave first cuff sections 44a and 45a. The first
sleeve forming portions 44b and 45b are arranged in front of the
second sleeve forming portions 44c and 45c. The first sleeve
forming portions 44b and 45b are shorter than the second
sleeve-forming section 44c and 45c.
[0046] The side-connecting sections 46 and 47 made of pieces of the
flexible second fabric are preferably formed as a unit with the
upper side pieces 48 and 49 on the side pieces 26 and 27 to be
described later. The second fabric used in the side-connecting
sections 46 and 47, as illustrated in FIG. 2, has a second mesh M2
preferably comprising a plurality of flat hexagonal mesh holes. The
second mesh M2 has larger holes than those of the first mesh M1.
This improves breathability in the armpit section, which tends to
perspire.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the side-connecting sections 46
and 47 comprise the second cuff sections 46a and 47a, linked to the
first cuff sections 44a and 45a, comprising the cuffs 24a and 25a
(refer to FIGS. 1 and 2) on the sleeve sections 24 and 25, the
third sleeve forming portions 46b and 47b curved to extend from one
end of the second cuff sections 46a and 47a to be sewn to the first
sleeve forming portions 44b and 45b, and the fourth sleeve forming
portions 46c, 47c curved to extend from the other end of the second
cuff sections 46a and 47a to be sewn to the second sleeve forming
portions 44c and 45c. These side-connecting sections 46 and 47 help
to fit the sleeve sections 24 and 25 to the upper arm easily, and
assist in reducing air resistance caused by bunching of the fabric.
Additionally, the sleeve sections 24 and 25 resist being pulled
back during the ride, thereby improving comfort.
[0048] The right and left side pieces 26 and 27 are partially
curved, the shape of the left and right pieces being symmetrical.
The side pieces 26 and 27 preferably comprise upper side pieces 48
and 49 made of the flexible second fabric to be formed together
with the side-connecting sections 46 and 47 as a unit, with the
lower sides pieces 50 and 51 preferably made of the first fabric
arranged below the upper side pieces 48 and 49.
[0049] The upper side pieces 48 and 49 comprise first attaching
sections 48a and 49a and the second attaching sections 48b and 49b.
The first attaching sections 48a and 49a are sewn to the upper
section of the first front-back sewing edges 21b and 22b on the
front panel sections 21 and 22. The second attaching sections 48b
and 49b are joined to the first attaching sections 48a and 49a to
be sewn to the upper section of the second front-back sewing edges
42c, 42d on the second back section 42 and the lower side pieces 50
and 51. The second attaching sections 48b and 49b bordering on the
upper side pieces 48 and 49 and the lower side pieces 50 and 51 are
formed to curve slightly inward, extending diagonally downward from
both sides of the back panel 23 toward the front panel sections 21
and 22.
[0050] The lower sides pieces 50 and 51 has first attaching
sections 50a and 51a, fourth attaching sections 50b and 51b; fifth
attaching sections 50c, 51c and attaching bottom edges 50d and 51d.
The first attaching sections 50a and 51a are sewn to the lower
section of the third front-back sewing edges 21b and 22b on the
front panel sections 21 and 22. The fourth attaching sections 50b
and 51b are arranged opposite to the third attaching sections 50a
and 51a and are sewn to the lower section of the second front-back
sewing edges 42c and 42d in the back panel 23. The fifth attaching
sections 50c, 51c extend diagonally upward and are sewn to the
first attaching sections 48a and 49a. The attaching bottom edges
50d and 51d link the front bottom edges 21f and 22f and the back
bottom line section 42e.
[0051] These side pieces 26 and 27 help to fit the jersey 10 to the
human body easily, and assist in reducing air resistance caused by
bunching of the fabric. Additionally, the front panel sections 21
and 22 and the back panel 23 resist being pulled back on either
side of the body, thereby improving comfort. The side-connecting
section 47 and the upper side piece 49 made of the second fabric
comprising the second mesh M2, in between which the armpit is
located, are formed as a unit, and thereby improve breathability as
well as flexibility in this area.
[0052] The collar section 30 is sewn to the first and second
neckline sections 21d and 22d and 42f folded over lengthwise along
the center. The pocket 31 is formed along the entire width of the
back panel 23 and divided into 3 sections.
[0053] In the bicycle jersey 10 in one embodiment configured in
this manner according to the present invention, the second back
sections 41 and 42 stretch more than other sections when the arm
faces forward while riding or when the arms are lowered to the
sides while walking. Consequently, as illustrated in FIG. 5, while
riding a bicycle such as a road racer 60 with a slouching posture
and holding the handles such as a drop handle 61 with both hands 62
with the arms 63 extended in front of the jersey 10, the back
sections 41 and 42 arranged on the outside of the shoulder blade on
the shoulder's back rear section are extended, thereby the jersey
does not become tight and resists bunching at the sleeve sections
24 and 25 on the front of the shoulder. Consequently, it is more
comfortable to wear when one holds the drop handle 61, and the air
resistance is reduced as well.
[0054] When the arms are lowered down on the side as one walks, the
second back sections 41 and 42 shrink, resisting both slackness and
tightness, thereby improving comfort for both walking or
riding.
[0055] If the side-connecting sections 46 and 47 and the upper side
pieces 48 and 49 as well as the second back sections 41 and 42 are
made of the flexible second fabric, when the arms are extended
while riding or when the arms are lowered to the sides while
walking, the side-connecting sections 46 and 47 or the upper side
pieces 48 and 49 stretch, thereby further improving comfort.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0056] (a) In the previous embodiment, the second back sections 41
and 42 are arranged outside the first and second positions S1 and
S2 where the shoulder blades contact the inner edge of the. It is
also acceptable to partially arrange the second back sections 41
and 42 in the first and second regions R1 and R2 outside the first
and second positions S1 and S2. In FIG. 6, the second back section
141 made of the second fabric of the back panel 123 in the bicycle
jersey 110 is formed by connecting the outer part of the first and
second positions S1 and S2 to the inner part thereof as a unit.
Consequently, the first back section 140 made of the second fabric
consists of the section other than the second back section 141 of
the back panel 123.
[0057] (b) In the previous embodiment, the front panel is divided
into two sections for ease of putting on and taking off. It is also
acceptable to form the front panel with one piece of cloth such as
the back panel. In this case, for ease of putting on/taking off, it
is preferable to provide a fastener on the upper section.
[0058] (c) In the previous embodiment, essentially the fabric of
the first back section 40 and the second back section 41 and 42
that comprise the back panel 23 were be described. However,
considering the strength of the garment with regard to the fabric
making up not only the first back section 40 but also the front
panel 23, the collar section 30, and the pocket 31, it is
preferable to use a fabric with tear resistance and less
flexibility than the second fabric comprising the second back
sections 41 and 42. Particularly, if the first fabric is used for
the front panel, the collar section, and the pocket such as the
first back section 40, it is possible to reduce the number of
materials used, thereby reducing the production cost.
[0059] The side-connecting sections 46 and 47 of the sleeve
sections 24 and 25 and the upper side pieces 48 and 49 of the side
pieces 26 and 27 are made of the second fabric. However, it is
acceptable to use the first fabric as well.
[0060] Further, it is acceptable to divide the side-connecting
sections 46 and 47 and the upper side pieces 48 and 49. Further, it
is acceptable to form the upper side pieces 48 and 49 and the lower
sides pieces 50 and 51 as a unit. In these cases, the material may
be either the first fabric or the second fabric.
[0061] (d) In the previous embodiment, a bicycle riding jersey for
a road racer is illustrated as an example. The bicycle riding
outfit according to the present invention may be used for riding
mountain bikes or other bicycles.
[0062] (e) In the previous embodiment, the bicycle jersey without
pants is illustrated as an example. The present invention can be
applied to an all-in-one bicycle riding outfit including pants.
Also, the embodiment is explained using the example of a short
sleeve; however, the present invention can be applied to a long
sleeved bicycle riding outfit as well.
[0063] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to
illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and
modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope
of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore,
the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the
present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for
the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended
claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *