Textile and method of manufacturing the same

By allowing bicomponent fiber textiles to expand or contract under external moisture stimulation, the comfort issue of clothing when perspiration levels change is solved, achieving dynamic heat regulation and improved comfort.

CN114847568BActive Publication Date: 2025-12-12NIKE INNOVATE CV
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202210412139.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2017-03-17
Filing Date
2018-03-14
Publication Date
2025-12-12
Estimated Expiration
2038-03-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

During sports activities, users of clothing or footwear may find it difficult to adapt to changes in perspiration levels to maintain or dissipate heat in real time, leading to the need to frequently change clothes to adjust for comfort.

Method used

Textiles containing bicomponent fibers are used, and external moisture stimulation (such as the user's perspiration) triggers the fibers to expand or contract, causing the textile to change shape to adapt to the user's physiological conditions and achieve dynamic heat regulation.

Benefits of technology

Textiles can adapt to changes in the user's perspiration levels in real time, reducing the need for removing or adding layers, improving athletic performance and comfort, and adjusting thermal insulation performance through changes in bulkiness.

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Abstract

The present application relates to textiles and methods of making the same. Various aspects disclosed relate to structures such as textiles, garments, garment components, footwear, or footwear components. The present disclosure includes a structure having a first region having one or more first fibers. The individual first fibers include a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material. The first region contracts or expands relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers upon the change in relative humidity.
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Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 201880028752.5, filed on March 14, 2018, having the title "Textile and method of making the same".

[0002] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 472,795, filed on March 17, 2017, entitled "Textile Material and Method of Making the Same", the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. This application also claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 472,817, filed on March 17, 2017, entitled "Garment, Garment Component, Footwear or Footwear Component and Method of Making the Same", the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0004] During athletic activities, a user of an article such as a garment or footwear can experience changes in their perspiration levels. Typically, the changes in the user's perspiration levels are due to the user's body attempting to either reject or retain heat. To remain comfortable, for example, the user can change garments. This is because some garments are more suited to retaining heat, while other garments are more suited to helping reject heat. This characteristic of a garment, which can be a function of the structure and material of the fibers forming the garment, relates to its ability to retain or reject heat. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Further aspects of the disclosure will be more readily appreciated when the detailed description of the various aspects of the present disclosure, as described below, is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate aspects of the disclosure and together with the description serve to explain various principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0007] Figures 1A-1C is a plan view of a garment containing a textile according to various aspects.

[0008] Figures 2A-2H is an end view of different examples of textile fibers according to various aspects.

[0009] Figure 2I illustrates a garment according to various aspects Figure 2Aperspective view of fibers in

[0010] Figure 3A end view of a plurality of fibers after extrusion and drawing according to various aspects.

[0011] Figure 3B schematic view of a plurality of fibers after heat treatment according to various aspects.

[0012] Figure 4A photograph of a first set of dry fibers that are not heat treated and a second set of dry fibers that are heat treated according to various aspects.

[0013] Figure 4B photograph of a first set of fibers that are not heat treated and a second set of fibers that are heat treated under wet conditions according to various aspects. Figure 4A Figure 4A photograph of a first set of fibers that are not heat treated and a second set of fibers that are heat treated under wet conditions according to various aspects.

[0014] Figure 5 schematic view of a textile including fibers in a woven pattern according to various aspects.

[0015] Figure 6 photograph showing one aspect of a textile according to various aspects.

[0016] Figure 7 schematic depiction of one aspect of a textile shown in Figure 6

[0017] Figures 8A-8D schematic depiction of some aspects of a textile having regions of partial heat treatment according to various aspects.

[0018] Figure 9A and Figure 9B schematic view of some aspects of a textile including heat treated and untreated yarns adjacent to each other, respectively, according to various aspects.

[0019] Figure 10A and Figure 10B schematic depiction of a garment including fibers in a contracted or expanded state according to various aspects.

[0020] Figures 11A-11C schematic view of a textile including an adhesive layer.

[0021] Figures 12A-12D scanning electron microscope images (SEM images) showing bi-component fibers at a draw ratio. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] ​​The present disclosure provides a textile or an article (e.g., a garment, a garment component, footwear, or footwear including a textile) including the textile that can undergo a mechanical change in response to, for example, a moisture stimulus generated by perspiration of a user. The mechanical change can include a shape change of the textile or article. The shape change can be caused by a shrinking or swelling of individual fibers forming the textile. For example, the individual fibers can be configured to swell or shrink by at least one of a length percentage, a width percentage, and a length percentage and a width percentage. The swelling or shrinking can be triggered by a moisture stimulus generated by the user.

[0023] The swelling or shrinking of the individual fibers can be adapted to occur at a level of perspiration expected by the user. As the individual fibers swell or shrink, the shape of the textile can change to better accommodate the condition of the user. For example, the textile can alternate between a lofty structure that retains heat and a less lofty or substantially flat structure that helps to expel heat.

[0024] In one aspect, the textile includes: a first region of the textile including one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber including a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymer material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament having an interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or swells by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of swelling or shrinking of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity changes by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity. In a further aspect, an article including the textile is provided.

[0025] In one aspect, the first filament and the second filament are substantially laminated to each other at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber. In one aspect, the first fiber has a characteristic that it will shrink relative to the equilibrium state of the first region prior to the change in relative humidity when a relative humidity changes by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0026] In one aspect, the first filament and the second filament are substantially delaminated at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber. In one aspect, the first fiber has a characteristic that it will swell relative to the equilibrium state of the first region prior to the change in relative humidity when a relative humidity changes by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0027] In an aspect, the interface defines an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber is defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber.

[0028] In an aspect, the first filament has a cross-section comprising a concave surface and the second filament is formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and has a cross-section comprising a convex surface.

[0029] In an aspect, the co-extruded first filament and second filament have an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament.

[0030] In an aspect, the second filament is formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material, wherein at the interface the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament.

[0031] According to various aspects, the present disclosure provides a textile as described above and herein included in a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component.

[0032] In an aspect, a method of forming a textile includes: forming the textile from one or more first fibers, a length of the individual first fiber is at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber includes a co-extruded first filament and a second filament, the first filament is formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament have an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the first filament and the second filament are joined to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; incorporating the textile into a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component.

[0033] Before the additional details of the disclosure are described in greater detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the particular aspect described and, as such, can vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting since the scope of the present disclosure will be defined only by the appended claims.

[0034] Where a numerical range is provided, it should be understood that every number within that range and each tenth thereof can be separately and individually claimed; for example, every number within the range 1-10, and every tenth thereof, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, can be claimed. To the extent that any open-ended range is recited, it is intended that the endpoints of these ranges are included. These and other naturally occurring ranges are also encompassed even if the upper or lower limit is not expressly stated or otherwise ascertained from this disclosure.

[0035] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, the preferred methods and materials are now described.

[0036] As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present disclosure, each of the individual aspects described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features that can be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several aspects without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Any recited method can be implemented in the order of events recited or in any other order that is logically possible.

[0037] Aspects of the present disclosure will employ, unless otherwise indicated, chemistry, textile and the like, which are within the skill of those in the art.

[0038] The following examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use the textile articles and methods disclosed and claimed herein. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.) but some errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, temperature is in degrees Celsius, and pressure is at or near atmospheric. Standard temperature and pressure is defined as 20 °C and 1 atmosphere.

[0039] Before the aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to specific materials, reagents, reaction materials, manufacturing processes, etc. unless otherwise specified, unless otherwise specified, unless otherwise specified, as such can vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. In the present disclosure, steps can also be performed in different order than described where logically possible.

[0040] It must be noted that as used herein the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] General Discussion

[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to certain aspects of the disclosed subject matter, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with the enumerated claims, it will be understood that the subject matter exemplified is not intended to limit the claims to the disclosed subject matter.

[0043] According to the present disclosure, it can be desirable to develop articles including textiles that are capable of undergoing a shape change triggered at least in part by an external moisture stimulus (e.g., perspiration from a user). This can allow the textile or article to adapt to the user's conditions substantially in real-time. This can improve the performance of the article and increase the comfort of the article to the user, which can improve the user's athletic performance and the user's level of comfort. As a non-limiting example, as described herein, the adaptive capability of a garment containing the textile can reduce the need for the user to shed or add layers during exercise. This is because the article itself is capable of adapting through the textile to provide the user with more or less insulation as appropriate.

[0044] According to various aspects described herein, the present disclosure is generally directed to textile materials and articles including the textile materials that undergo a mechanical change in response to an external moisture stimulus. The external moisture stimulus can be the presence or absence of moisture contacting the textile material. The external moisture stimulus can be provided by, for example, perspiration or by the humidity of the environment surrounding the textile. The mechanical change can be a reversible contraction or expansion of the textile. The textile material can be formed of a plurality of fibers including at least one bicomponent fiber that can be tuned to contract or expand, resulting in the mechanical change or shape change, such as a contraction or expansion of the textile. The textile can be incorporated into a garment (e.g., a shirt or pants), a garment component (e.g., a patch or a breathable portion), footwear (e.g., a shoe or sock), or a footwear component (e.g., a shoelace or an upper). In some examples, the textile defines the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component in its entirety. In other examples, the textile can define only a portion of the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0045] The ability of the textile material to undergo a mechanical change in response to an external moisture stimulus can allow the textile to produce an adaptation in response to the physiological conditions of a user, such that, for example, the textiles of various aspects described herein can expand or contract in response to a triggering event in which the external moisture stimulus exceeds or falls below a threshold value. The external moisture stimulus can exceed or fall below the threshold value, for example, by a change in the level of perspiration of the user or a change in the relative humidity of the environment surrounding the textile at the time.

[0046] Such behavior of the textile can help to selectively increase or decrease the loft of the garment in response to the level of perspiration of the user. Loft is the density of fibers in a textile with respect to thickness; the higher the loft of a textile, the thicker the thickness corresponding to its density. For example, in a garment, increased loft results in more air being trapped between the user and the garment, while less loft results in less air being trapped between the user and the garment. When the user produces less perspiration, the user can need more loft to achieve more insulation. In this case, the user's body is not trying to reject heat to a great extent. Conversely, when the user produces more perspiration, the user can need less loft to achieve less insulation. In this case, the user's body is trying to reject heat. A less-lofted structure can reduce insulation and can increase the egress of user perspiration, resulting in, for example, a cooling effect on the user.

[0047] Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B and Figure 1C is a plan view of a garment 100 comprising a textile 102 according to the present disclosure. Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B and Figure 1C show many of the same components and will be discussed concurrently. As shown, the garment 100 is a shirt. A shirt is one non-limiting example of a suitable garment. Additional non-limiting examples of garments include socks, pants, gloves, wristbands, headbands, hats, liners, and undergarments.

[0048] As shown in Figures 1A-1C , 100% of the surface area of the garment 100 is bounded by the textile 102. In other examples, the textile 102 can bound less than 100% of the surface area of the textile 102. For example, the textile 102 can bound from about 1% to about 99% of the surface area of the garment 100, or from about 5% to about 95%, about 10% to about 90%, about 15% to about 85%, about 20% to about 80%, about 25% to about 75%, about 30% to about 70%, about 35% to about 65%, about 40% to about 60%, or about 45% to about 55% of the surface area of the garment 100.

[0049] Figure 1A shows the fully contracted region 104. Figure 1B shows the fully contracted region 104. Figure 1C shows the contracted region 104 and the expanded region 106. The first region 104 of the textile 102 is adapted to undergo a mechanical change in response to an external moisture stimulus. For example, the first region 104 can change shape when exposed to a moisture level above or below some threshold. For example, as shown in Figure 1A andFigure 1C As shown, the first region 104 can be contracted (indicated by the slash), or as... Figure 1B The expansion is shown (indicated by the horizontal line). Other mechanical changes may include adapting the first region 104 to a bulky or flattened structure. Additionally, breathable portions (not shown) in the textile 102 may open or close in response to external moisture stimuli.

[0050] The first region 104 may cover approximately 5% to approximately 100% of the total surface area of ​​the textile 102, or approximately 10% to approximately 95%, approximately 15% to approximately 90%, approximately 20% to approximately 85%, approximately 25% to approximately 80%, approximately 30% to approximately 75%, approximately 35% to approximately 70%, approximately 40% to approximately 65%, approximately 45% to approximately 60%, or approximately 50% to approximately 55% of the total surface area of ​​the textile 102. The size of the first region 104 may depend on the type of article to which the textile 102 is bonded. For example, the first region 104 may cover approximately 0.05 mm. 2 approximately 10mm 2 Approximately 1.0mm 2 To approximately 9.5mm 2 Approximately 1.5mm 2 To approximately 9.0mm 2 Approximately 2mm 2 To approximately 8.5mm 2 Approximately 2.5mm 2 To approximately 8.0mm 2 Approximately 3.0mm 2 To approximately 7.5mm 2 Approximately 3.5mm 2 To approximately 7.0mm 2 Approximately 4.0mm 2 To approximately 6.5mm 2 Approximately 4.5mm 2 To approximately 6.0mm 2 Or approximately 5.0mm 2 To approximately 5.5mm 2 Additionally, the range of the first region 104 may be from about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% of the total surface area of ​​the textile 102, or from about 10 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 90 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 85 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 75 wt%, about 35 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 65 wt%, about 45 wt% to about 60 wt%, or about 50 wt% to about 55 wt%.

[0051] In some examples, if the first region 104 expands, the second region 106 of the textile 102 is adapted to contract, or if the first region 104 contracts, the second region 106 of the textile 102 is adapted to expand. This is shown in Figure 1C . The extent of the second region can be from about 5% to about 95% of the total surface area of the textile 102, or from about 10% to about 90%, about 15% to about 85%, about 20% to about 80%, about 25% to about 75%, about 30% to about 70%, about 35% to about 65%, about 40% to about 60%, or about 45% to about 55% of the total surface area of the textile. Similar to the dimensions of the first region 104, the dimensions of the second region 106 can depend on the type of article to which the textile 102 is incorporated. For example, the extent of the first region 104 can be from about 0.05 mm 2 to about 10 mm 2 , from about 1.0 mm 2 to about 9.5 mm 2 , from about 1.5 mm 2 to about 9.0 mm 2 , from about 2 mm 2 to about 8.5 mm 2 , from about 2.5 mm 2 to about 8.0 mm 2 , from about 3.0 mm 2 to about 7.5 mm 2 , from about 3.5 mm 2 to about 7.0 mm 2 , from about 4.0 mm 2 to about 6.5 mm 2 , from about 4.5 mm 2 to about 6.0 mm 2 , or from about 5.0 mm 2 to about 5.5 mm 2 .

[0052] In some examples, the first region 104 or the second region 106 expands or contracts at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to a quiescent state in response to moisture stimulus. In some examples, the first region 104 or the second region 106 expands or contracts in a range from about 1% in length to about 50% in length, from about 5% in length to about 45% in length, from about 10% in length to about 40% in length, from about 15% in length to about 35% in length, or from about 20% in length to about 30% in length. In some examples, the first region 104 or the second region 106 expands or contracts in a range from about 1% in width to about 50% in width, from about 5% in width to about 45% in width, from about 10% in width to about 40% in width, from about 15% in width to about 35% in width, or from about 20% in width to about 30% in width. In some further examples, the first region 104 or the second region 106 expands or contracts in a range from about 1% in length and width to about 50% in length and width, from about 5% in length and width to about 45% in length and width, from about 10% in length and width to about 40% in length and width, from about 15% in length and width to about 35% in length and width, or from about 20% in length and width to about 30% in length and width.

[0053] The mechanical change of the textile 102 occurs in response to an external moisture stimulus, such as a change in relative humidity that exceeds a threshold value. For example, the mechanical change can be triggered when the change in relative humidity is in a range from about 10% to about 50%, from about 15% to about 45%, from about 20% to about 40%, or from about 25% to about 35%. The change in relative humidity is measured in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity. The expansion or contraction of the textile 102 is relative to a quiescent or resting state of the first region 104 or the second region 106 prior to the change in relative humidity. The textile 102 is able to return to the quiescent state when the humidity or moisture level is below the threshold level. In some examples, the temperature experienced by the textile 102 can also affect the degree to which the textile 102 expands or contracts relative to the quiescent state.

[0054] At least a portion of the textile 102 is formed from bicomponent fibers. The mechanical change of the textile 102 is driven at least in part or in whole by one or more first fibers 108 included (e.g., woven, entangled, or knitted) therein. Figure 2A and Figure 2I Various examples of a single first fiber 108 are shown. Figures 2A-2H is an end view of various examples of a first fiber 108. Figure 2I is Figure 2AA partial perspective view of a first fiber 108 is shown. The first fiber 108 is a bi-component fiber including a first filament 110 and a second filament 112 that are co-extruded. The length L of the first fiber 108 ranges from about 10 to about 100 times greater than the width W of the first fiber 108, from about 15 to about 95 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 20 to about 90 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 25 to about 85 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 30 to about 80 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 35 to about 75 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 40 to about 70 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, from about 45 to about 65 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108, or from about 50 to about 60 times greater than the width of the first fiber 108.

[0055] The first filament 110 and the second filament 112 include respective first and / or second thermoplastic polymeric materials. In some aspects, as shown, Figure 2A The first filament 110 has a generally circular cross-section including a concave surface 114, as shown. The second filament 112 also has a generally circular cross-section including a convex surface 116. However, one of skill in the art will recognize that the first fiber 108 can have other cross-sectional shapes or features. For example, as shown, Figure 2B Figure 2C Figure 2D Figure 2E Figure 2G Figure 2H As shown, the first filament 110 or the second filament 112 can include more than one convex surface 116 or concave surface 114. Further, the cross-section of either or both of the first filament 110 or the second filament 112 can have a generally elliptical shape, as shown, Figure 2F Figure 2H The cross-section of either or both of the first filament 110 or the second filament 112 can have a crescent shape, as shown. Figure 2E The cross-section of either or both of the first filament 110 or the second filament 112 can further include a protrusion, as shown. Figure 2C Figure 2D

[0056] The interface 118 defines an inner surface of the first fiber 108. At the interface 118, the surface of the first filament 110 and the surface of the second filament 112 are in direct contact with one another. For example, as shown, Figure 2A Figure 2I The direct contact between the first filament 110 and the second filament 112 is facilitated by the concave surface 114 at least partially encircling the convex surface 116, as shown. In some examples of a single first fiber 108, the first filament 110 completely (e.g., about 90% or more, about 95% or more, about 99% or more, or about 100%) encircles the second filament 112. This is shown, Figure 2F ​​​​​​​​​In other examples, the second filament 112 at least partially (e.g., about 5%, about 10%, about 25%, about 40%, about 55%, or about 70%, and ranging up to 90%, about 80%, about 70%, about 60%, or about 50%) surrounds the first filament 110. This is shown in Figure 2E

[0057] The first filament 110 and the second filament 112 can be in direct contact along a majority of the length L of the first fiber 108 and are laminated or joined to one another at the interface 118 along a majority (e.g., about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 75% or more, about 90% or more, about 95% or more, or about 100%) of the length of the first fiber 108. When the interface 118 defines an inner surface, the outer surface 120 of the first fiber 108 is defined by a portion of the first filament 110 along a majority (e.g., about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 75% or more, about 90% or more, about 95% or more, or about 100%) of the length of the first fiber 108 and a corresponding portion of the second filament 112. A delamination region can also be defined along the interface 118.

[0058] Laminated, as used herein, refers to the state of filaments being firmly bound (e.g., by compression, expansion, or thermal bonding). The laminated process can be reversed, resulting in delamination. Delamination occurs when the filaments or regions of filaments are no longer united due to, for example, cooling, drying, or shrinking. Lamination or delamination can be continuous or discontinuous along the interface 118 of the fiber 108, resulting in a delamination region.

[0059] In a single first fiber 108, the first filament 110 and the second filament 112 can comprise different weight percentages of the first fiber 108. In some aspects, the first filament 110 will comprise a greater weight percentage of the first fiber 108. For example, the first filament can range from about 5 wt% to about 90 wt% greater than the weight percentage of the second fiber, or from about 10 wt% to about 90 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 85 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 75 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 35 wt% to about 65 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 60 wt%, or about 45 wt% to about 55 wt% greater than the weight percentage of the second fiber.

[0060] ​As described herein, the first filament 110 can include a first thermoplastic polymeric material. The first thermoplastic polymeric material can include one or more first polymers. The one or more first polymers can range from about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material, or from about 82 wt% to about 98 wt%, about 84 wt% to about 96 wt%, about 86 wt% to about 94 wt%, about 88 wt% to about 92 wt%, or about 90 wt% to about 91 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0061] The one or more first polymers of the first thermoplastic material can be selected from a number of suitable polymers. For example, the one or more first polymers can be selected from polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyacrylamides, polycarbonates, polyethers, celluloses, polyimides, copolymers thereof, or mixtures thereof. In examples where the one or more first polymers include a polyamide, suitable examples of the polyamide include nylon 6; nylon 4,6; nylon 6,6; nylon 6,10; nylon 11; nylon 12, copolymers thereof, or mixtures thereof. In some examples, about 90 wt% to about 100 wt% of the one or more first polymers is a polyamide.

[0062] The one or more first polymers can be selected to be a substantially hydrophilic polymer. For example, the one or more first polymers absorbs about 10 wt% to about 100 wt% water, or about 15 wt% to about 95 wt% water, about 20 wt% to about 90 wt% water, about 25 wt% to about 85 wt% water, about 30 wt% to about 80 wt% water, about 35 wt% to about 75 wt% water, about 40 wt% to about 70 wt% water, about 45 wt% to about 65 wt% water, or about 50 wt% to about 60 wt% water after exposure to a range of 30% to 100% relative humidity at 80°C for a duration ranging from about 1 hour to about 48 hours.

[0063] In some aspects, the extent to which the one or more first polymers absorb water can be a function of the inherent hydrophilic properties of the one or more first polymers. Additionally, the hydrophilicity of the one or more first polymers can be adjusted. For example, the degree of crosslinking of the one or more first polymers can be adjusted, in some examples, hydrophilic or hydrophobic groups can be attached to the one or more first polymers. Non-polymeric additives can also be added to the first thermoplastic material. The non-polymeric additives can increase the hydrophilicity of the first polymer. In some examples, the non-polymeric additives can range from about 1 wt% to about 10 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material, or from about 2 wt% to about 9 wt%, about 3 wt% to about 8 wt%, about 4 wt% to about 7 wt%, or about 5 wt% to about 6 wt% of the first thermoplastic material. Suitable examples of non-polymeric additives include sulfonate components, clay components, phenol resin components, cellulose components, nanogel components, or mixtures thereof.

[0064] As described herein, the second filament 112 can further include a second thermoplastic polymeric material. The second thermoplastic polymeric material can include one or more second polymers. The second thermoplastic polymeric material can include one or more second polymers. The one or more second polymers can range from about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the second thermoplastic polymeric material, or from about 82 wt% to about 98 wt%, about 84 wt% to about 96 wt%, about 86 wt% to about 94 wt%, about 88 wt% to about 92 wt%, or about 90 wt% to about 91 wt% of the second thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0065] The one or more second polymers of the second thermoplastic material can be selected from suitable polymers. For example, the one or more second polymers can include a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof. In some examples, about 90 wt% to about 100 wt% of the one or more first polymers is a polyester. Suitable examples of the polyester can include polyglycolide, polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyhydroxybutyrate, polyethylene adipate, polybutylene succinate, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0066] In some aspects, the one or more second polymers can be selected to be relatively hydrophobic relative to the one or more first polymers. For example, the one or more second polymers can absorb about 0.1 wt% to about 30 wt% water, or about 0.5 wt% to about 29.5 wt% water, about 1 wt% to about 29 wt% water, about 1.5 wt% to about 28.5 wt% water, about 2 wt% to about 28 wt% water, about 2.5 wt% to about 27.5 wt% water, about 3 wt% to about 27 wt% water, about 3.5 wt% to about 26.5 wt% water, about 4 wt% to about 26 wt% water, about 4.5 wt% to about 25.5 wt% water, about 5 wt% to about 25 wt% water, about 5.5 wt% to about 24.5 wt% water, about 6 wt% to about 24 wt% water, about 6.5 wt% to about 23.5 wt% water, about 7 wt% to about 23 wt% water, about 7.5 wt% to about 22.5 wt% water, about 8 wt% to about 22 wt% water, about 8.5 wt% to about 21.5 wt% water, about 9 wt% to about 21 wt% water, about 9.5 wt% to about 20.5 wt% water, about 10 wt% to about 20 wt% water, about 10.5 wt% to about 19.5 wt% water, about 11 wt% to about 19 wt% water, about 11.5 wt% to about 18.5 wt% water, about 12 wt% to about 18 wt% water, about 12.5 wt% to about 17.5 wt% water, about 13 wt% to about 17 wt% water, about 13.5 wt% to about 16.5 wt% water, about 14 wt% to about 16 wt% water, or about 14.5 wt% to about 15.5 wt% water after exposure to 30% to 100% relative humidity at 80°C for a duration ranging from about 1 hour to about 48 hours.

[0067] Regardless of how much wt% the one or more second polymers absorb, the first thermoplastic polymer material absorbs about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% more water than the second thermoplastic polymer material, about 10 wt% to about 95 wt% more water than the second thermoplastic polymer material, about 15 wt% to about 90 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 85 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 75 wt%, about 35 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 65 wt%, about 45 wt% to about 60 wt%, or about 50 wt% to about 55 wt% more water than the second thermoplastic polymer material.

[0068] The individual first fibers 108 of the first region 104 and the second region 106 can have the same tensile strength or different tensile strengths. For example, the tenacity of the individual first fibers can range from about 3 grams per denier (g / d) to about 15 g / d, where g / d = ((11.3 / density g / cm3) x 9000 meters) / 1 denier.3 The tensile strength of the individual fibers can range from about 3.5 g / d to about 14.5 g / d, about 4 g / d to about 14 g / d, about 4.5 g / d to about 13.5 g / d, about 5 g / d to about 13 g / d, about 5.5 g / d to about 12.5 g / d, about 6 g / d to about 12 g / d, about 6.5 g / d to about 11.5 g / d, about 7 g / d to about 11 g / d, about 7.5 g / d to about 10.5 g / d, about 8 g / d to about 10 g / d, or about 8.5 g / d to about 9.5 g / d. In cases where the tensile strength of the individual first fibers 108 differs between the first region 104 and the second region 106, the difference can range from about plus or minus 10% to about 70%, about 15% to about 65%, about 20% to about 60%, about 25% to about 55%, about 30% to about 50%, or about 35% to about 45%.

[0069] The individual first fibers 108 are typically formed by co-extruding the first filament 110 and the second filament 112. Co-extrusion can include placing a first amount of a first thermoplastic polymer material and a second amount of a second thermoplastic polymer material into an extruder. The thermoplastic polymer materials are extruded through a shaping die that includes two ports. Each port receives one of the thermoplastic polymer materials. While the particular shape of the die can vary to accommodate different applications, the die is shaped to form the interface 118, as described above, in which the first filament 110 partially (e.g., about 5%, about 10%, about 25%, about 40%, about 55%, or about 70%, and this range can go up to 90%, about 80%, about 70%, about 60%, or about 50%) encloses the second filament 112. For example, the first port through which the first thermoplastic polymer material passes can have a crescent-shaped cross-section. Additionally, the second port through which the second thermoplastic polymer material passes has a circular cross-section. When the two thermoplastic polymer materials are simultaneously extruded through the die, the second thermoplastic polymer material is shaped by the portion of the die that has a circular cross-section, while the first thermoplastic polymer material is shaped by the portion of the die that has a crescent-shaped cross-section. When the two thermoplastic polymer materials exit the die, they contact one another and are substantially (e.g., about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more, about 95% or more, or about 99%) joined or laminated along the interface 118, with a small amount of gap in between. Due to the shape of the first port and the second port of the die, the interface can be crescent-shaped.

[0070] After extrusion, the individual first fibers 108 can be drawn along the length of the fiber. Once the individual fibers 108 are drawn, the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 are substantially layered along the length of the fiber 108 along the interface 118. For example, the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 can be layered along the interface 118 along about 10% of the length of the first fiber 108 to about 100% of the length, about 15% of the length to about 95% of the length, about 20% of the length to about 90% of the length, about 25% of the length to about 85% of the length, about 30% of the length to about 80% of the length, about 35% of the length to about 75% of the length, about 40% of the length to about 70% of the length, about 45% of the length to about 65% of the length, or about 50% of the length to about 60% of the length of the first fiber 108. The layering along the interface 118 across the length of the first fiber 108 can be continuous or discontinuous. For example, if the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 are layered along the interface 118 along 80% of the length of the first fiber 108, the layering will be continuous if the layering is constant over the 80% of the length of the first fiber 108. Alternatively, the layering will be discontinuous if there is at least one layering-free portion between two layered portions along the length of the first fiber.

[0071] Regardless of the extent of layering or whether the layering is continuous, the second filaments remain at least partially surrounded by the first filaments. Thus, the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 remain in substantial (e.g., about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more, about 95% or more, or about 99%) direct contact along the length of the individual first fiber 108. Figure 3A is a schematic depiction of a plurality of individual first fibers 108 after extrusion and drawing. As shown, the individual fibers are layered along the interface at the layering region. Figure 3A

[0072] After the drawing stage, the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 can be joined or layered along the length of the individual first fiber 108 at the interface 118. This is shown in Figure 3B which is a schematic depiction of a plurality of individual first fibers 108 with the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 joined together. The first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 can be joined along about 5% of the length of the individual first fiber 108 to about 100% of the length, or about 10% of the length to about 95% of the length, about 15% of the length to about 90% of the length, about 20% of the length to about 85% of the length, about 25% of the length to about 80% of the length, about 30% of the length to about 75% of the length, about 35% of the length to about 70% of the length, about 40% of the length to about 65% of the length, about 45% of the length to about 60% of the length, about 50% of the length to about 55% of the length.​

[0073] In one aspect, layering the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 can be achieved by heating the individual first fibers 108 or portions thereof to create Figures 1A-1C the first region 104 or the second region 106. The heating can be achieved by, for example, a heat bath or by embossing. By heating, the individual first fibers 108 of the first region 104 or the second region 106 can be selectively heated. Additionally, the individual fibers 108 of the first region can be heated to layer the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112, while the individual fibers 108 of the second region 106 can not be heated such that the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 therein remain unlayered.

[0074] As discussed herein, whether the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 110 are layered or unlayered affects whether the individual first fibers 108 expand or contract in response to moisture stimulus. In short, if the filaments 110 and 112 are unlayered, then the first fibers 108 will expand; whereas, if the filaments 110 and 112 are layered, then the first fibers 108 will contract in response to moisture stimulus.

[0075] The first region 104 can be heated for a period of time ranging from about 30 seconds to about 6 hours, from about 5 minutes to about 5.5 hours, from about 30 minutes to about 5 hours, from about 1 hour to about 4.5 hours, from about 1.5 hours to about 4 hours, from about 2 hours to about 3.5 hours, or from about 2.5 hours to about 3 hours. The temperature range at which the first region 104 is heated can range from about 50 °C to about 280 °C, from about 60 °C to about 270 °C, from about 70 °C to about 260 °C, from about 80 °C to about 250 °C, from about 90 °C to about 240 °C, from about 100 °C to about 230 °C, from about 110 °C to about 220 °C, from about 120 °C to about 210 °C, from about 130 °C to about 200 °C, from about 140 °C to about 190 °C, from about 150 °C to about 180 °C, or from about 160 °C to about 170 °C.

[0076] Increasing the temperature of, for example, the individual first fibers 108 at the first region 104, can change the mechanical change (e.g., expansion or contraction) of the first region in response to external moisture stimulus (e.g., a change in relative humidity) relative to the state of the first region prior to the increase in temperature. For example, if the individual first fibers 108 of the first region are heated such that the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 are layered, then the individual first fibers contract in percentage of length when the relative humidity changes. Conversely, if the individual first fibers 108 of the first region are not heated after the drawing such that the first filaments 110 and the second filaments 112 remain unlayered, then the individual first fibers expand in percentage of length when the relative humidity changes. This is illustrated in Figure 4A and Figure 4BAn image of a single first fiber 108 is shown in FIG. 1 A. Figure 4A Drawn first fibers 108A and heated first fibers 108B in an "equilibrium state" under humidity conditions ranging from 40% relative humidity to about 60% relative humidity are shown. Figure 4B Drawn first fibers 108A and heated first fibers 108B in an activated state exposed to external moisture stimulus above a threshold are shown. The external moisture stimulus is provided by lightly spraying the first fibers 108A and 108B with water.

[0077] Without intending to be bound by any theory, the mechanical changes in the first region 104, and the mechanical changes in the second region 106 if present, are driven by the response of the single first fibers 108 to changes in relative humidity. The two thermoplastic polymer components respond differently to humidity changes above a threshold. An increase in relative humidity causes an increase in length of the first thermoplastic polymer component, while under the same conditions, the second component does not increase in length as much as the first component. When there is a relatively large number of single first fibers 108 layered or including layered regions along the length of the fiber, both filaments 110 and 112 can expand freely. Conversely, when the number of single first fibers 108 that are layered or include layered regions along the length of the fiber is relatively high, the increase in length of the first filament 110 in combination with the smaller increase in length of the second filament 112, if any, causes the fiber 108 to "kink" or "crimp" along its length. The second filament 112 appears to act as an "anchor" that prevents the first filament 110 from fully expanding, thereby shortening the overall length of the fiber. Thus, if the textile 102 is formed from single fibers 108, when exposed to increasing moisture levels, the regions that have not been heat treated will expand, while the regions that have been heat treated will contract.

[0078] The textile 102 formed from single fibers 108 can be one of many different types of textiles. For example, the textile 102 can be a nonwoven fabric. Examples of suitable nonwoven fabrics include a spunbond nonwoven fabric, a meltblown nonwoven fabric, a needle entangled nonwoven fabric, or a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric. Alternatively, the textile 102 can be a woven textile, a knitted textile, a braided textile, or a nonwoven fabric. In some examples of the textile 102, the textile can be formed from a collection of single first fibers 108 that can be aligned in substantially the same direction. In other examples, the textile 102 can be formed from one or more yarns, each including a plurality of first fibers 108.

[0079] The individual first fibers 108 can be incorporated into the textile 102 in a number of different ways. For example, the individual first fibers 108 can entirely form the textile 102. If the textile 102 is entirely formed from the individual first fibers 108, then the response of the textile 102 to moisture will depend on whether the individual first fibers 108 have been heat treated. Alternatively, the individual first fibers 108 can be selectively incorporated into the textile 102.

[0080] Selectively incorporating the individual first fibers 108 into the textile 102 can impart a change that is local rather than global to the textile 102. For example, instead of the entire textile 102 shrinking or expanding in response to a moisture stimulus, only a portion will react to the stimulus.

[0081] In an aspect, a textile can include a yarn that includes one or more fibers of the present disclosure (e.g., first fibers). Yarns are the raw materials used to form textiles. Generally, "yarn" is defined as a member having considerable length and a relatively small cross-section, which is formed of at least one filament or a plurality of fibers or filaments. A yarn can be formed of a single filament, which conventionally refers to a "monofilament yarn," or a plurality of individual filaments grouped together. A yarn can also include separate filaments formed of different materials, or a yarn can include a plurality of filaments, each filament formed of two or more different materials.

[0082] Examples of textiles 102 having selectively incorporated yarns 122 (which include first fibers 108) are shown in Figure 5 An example of a textile 102 having selectively incorporated yarns 122 (which include first fibers 108) is shown in Figure 5 is a schematic depiction of a textile 102. As shown, the textile 102 includes yarns 122 (which include first fibers) and yarns 124 (which include second fibers). The second fibers can differ from the first fibers in a number of ways. For example, the second fibers can be single component fibers; made from a material different than the thermoplastic polymer component described herein; the cross-section of the second fibers can be different. Whatever the difference, in some aspects, the second fibers will not expand or contract to the same extent, if at all, as the first fibers in response to a moisture stimulus. In some examples, the second fibers are elastic fibers, which have the ability to deform in response to a force and subsequently recover their shape in the absence of the force.

[0083] When the yarns 122 are interwoven with the yarns 124, the yarns 122 can be referred to as actuation yarns, in some examples, the yarns 122 will expand or contract in response to a moisture stimulus. Because the yarns 122 are interwoven with the yarns 124, expansion or contraction of the yarns 122 will also cause at least one of the yarns 124 to expand or contract. This can be because the yarns 122 and the yarns 124 are interwoven in a manner that causes the yarns 122 to pull on the yarns 124 when the yarns 122 expand or contract. Figure 5The interweaving is shown in such a way that the yarns 124 bias the yarns 122. Thus, when the yarns 122 expand or contract, the yarns 124 are forced to contract or expand in the same manner.

[0084] The ability of the yarns 122 to expand or contract at least one of the yarns 124 can result in the corresponding portions of the textile 102 and garment 100 having a flat or puffy structure depending on the expanding or contracting yarns 122. For example, if the yarns 122 are not heat treated, when the yarns 122 are exposed to moisture, they can have a flat structure. This is because the yarns 122 expand, thereby stretching and flattening the textile 122. Alternatively, if the yarns 122 are heat treated and exposed to moisture above a threshold, the yarns 122 contract, thereby compressing and kinking the textile, which results in a puffy structure.

[0085] Another example of a single first fiber 108 incorporated in a textile 102 is shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 Another example of a single first fiber 108 incorporated in a textile 102 is shown in Figure 6 is a photograph of a textile 102. As shown in Figure 6 the yarns 122 (including the single fibers 108) are incorporated into the textile 102. In this example, the yarns 122 are embroidered into the textile 102, with the yarns 124 securing the yarns 122 to the textile 102.

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic depiction of the textile 102 shown in Figure 6 once exposed to moisture. In this example, the single first fibers 108 or yarns 122 are heat treated, and then, as shown, once the single first fibers 108 contract upon exposure to a moisture stimulus, the contraction causes a change in shape of the textile 102. As shown, the textile 102 has a generally compressed shape. As shown, this can result in a puffy structure in the textile 102 and resulting garment 100. Alternatively, if the single first fibers 108 of the yarns 122 are not heat treated, or when the single first fibers 108 are heat treated but are in a "dry" (e.g., no moisture or moisture levels below a threshold) condition, then the yarns 122 will expand, which can flatten the textile 102.

[0087] In addition to the single fibers 108 or yarns 122 being selectively incorporated into the textile 102, the single fibers 108 can be selectively treated such that portions of the textile 102 will selectively expand or contract upon exposure to moisture. Figure 8A is a schematic depiction of a textile 102 that includes a first heat treated portion 128 and a second heat treated region 130. The portions 128 and 130 can be heat treated in many different ways. As shown in Figure 8BAs shown, selectively heat treating the textile 102 can result in a local shape change of the entire textile 102.

[0088] Additional features that work in conjunction with the individual fibers 108 and / or the portions 128 and 130 can be incorporated into the textile 102. For example, Figure 8C As shown, the textile 102 is shown as Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the textile 102, in which slits 132 are incorporated into the textile 102. As shown, Figure 8D Upon exposure to a moisture stimulus, the contraction of the portions 128 and 130 can cause the slits 132 to open, creating openings in the textile 102 that can be used for ventilation, among other things.

[0089] Individual first fibers 108 or yarns 122 can result in other shape changes in the textile 102. For example, a heat-treated individual fiber 108 can be placed adjacent to an untreated individual fiber 108. As shown, Figure 9A and Figure 9B A yarn 122A formed from untreated individual fibers 108 is paired with a yarn 122B formed from heat-treated individual fibers 108. As shown, Figure 9B Upon exposure to an external moisture stimulus, each of the yarns 122 either expands or contracts. Specifically, the yarn 122A expands, while the yarn 122B contracts. In dry conditions, as shown, Figure 9A The yarn 122A contracts, while the yarn 122B expands. As shown in both Figure 9A and Figure 9B Selectively heat treating the yarns 122, upon exposure to a moisture stimulus, can significantly alter the behavior of the yarns 122, and the shape of the textile 102. That is, the garment 100, or at least a portion of the garment 100 that includes the textile 102, can have a first shape in dry conditions, and a second shape in "wet" (e.g., moisture level above a threshold) conditions. For example, the opposite motion of each yarn can change the shape of the textile 102. The shape change can result in the textile 102 kinking or wrinkling, which can increase the bulkiness of the textile 102. The textile 102 can bound the entirety of the garment 100 or footwear item, or only a portion thereof. For example, the textile 102 can be selectively incorporated into the shoulder or armpit area of the garment 100, or into the upper of a footwear item.

[0090] Individual first fibers 108 can also be used within the garment 100 to move or reposition components of the garment 100. Figure 10A and Figure 10Bis a schematic view of a portion of garment 100 showing individual first fibers 108, elastic component 134, and thermal insulation 136. Elastic component 134 can be any suitable elastic material, examples of which include polyurethane or thermoplastic polyurethane. Thermal insulation 136 can be any suitable thermal insulation material, such as wool or down material, as non-limiting examples. Individual first fibers 108 are heat treated such that they shrink when exposed to moisture above a threshold. Both individual first fibers 108 and elastic component 134 are attached to thermal insulation 136 and to layer 138 of garment 100. Layer 138 can be a cotton material, for example. As Figure 10A shown, prior to exposure to a moisture stimulus, the shrink force A of individual first fibers 108 is overcome by the expansion force B of elastic component 134. This creates a puffy structure in garment 100 between 136 and 138. Conversely, when the garment is exposed to moisture above the threshold, the shrink force A of individual first fibers 108 overcomes the expansion force B of elastic component 134, as Figure 10B shown. This results in garment 100 having a smaller puffy structure between 136 and 138.

[0091] Local shape changes in garment 100 can be further achieved by affixing an adhesive to textile 102. Textile 102 can then be attached to a garment (or any other item, such as footwear). The adhesive can be, for example, a double-sided tape or film applied to textile 102 or garment 100. The adhesive can be applied to textile 102 to varying degrees. Figures 11A-11C is a schematic view of textile 102 including adhesive layer 104. For example, as Figure 11A shown, adhesive layer 140 covers substantially 100% of the surface area of one side of textile 102. As Figure 11B shown, adhesive layer 140 covers approximately 50% of the surface area of one side of textile 102. As Figure 11C shown, adhesive layer 140 is applied along the perimeter of one side of textile 102. The degree to which the adhesive is applied to the textile affects the adhesion of textile 102 to garment 100. Once the adhesive is applied to textile 102 or garment 100, textile 102 can be directly adhered to a portion of the garment. Depending on whether individual fibers 108 are heat treated, that portion of garment 100 will shrink or expand in response to moisture. Embodiments

[0092] Having now described the aspects of the present disclosure, in general terms, the examples describe some additional aspects. Although aspects of the present disclosure are described in conjunction with the examples and corresponding text and drawings, it is not intended that the aspects of the present disclosure be limited to such descriptions. Rather, the intention is to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of the aspects of the present disclosure.

[0093] The bicomponent fiber is formed by dispensing a polyamide resin and a polyethylene terephthalate resin into an extruder. The polyamide resin is PA-6. The resins are passed through a die having two ports. The first port of the die has a concave, substantially crescent shaped cross-section. The second port of the die has a convex, oval shaped cross-section. The polyamide is passed through the first port to form a first filament having a substantially crescent shaped cross-section. The polyethylene terephthalate is passed through the second port to form a second filament having a substantially circular cross-section. The polyamide filament and the polyethylene terephthalate filament are interfaced along an interface layer defined as having a substantially crescent shaped cross-section. This is shown schematically in Figure 2A and Figure 2B .

[0094] After extrusion, the bicomponent fiber is drawn down. Upon drawing down, the first filament and the second filament delaminate along the interface. This is shown schematically in Figure 3A . The degree to which the first filament and the second filament delaminate depends on the draw down ratio. As the draw down ratio increases, the degree of delamination increases. Figures 12A-12D are SEM images showing the bicomponent fiber at different draw down ratios. Figure 12A shows the bicomponent fiber at zero draw down ratio. Figure 12B shows the bicomponent fiber at a draw down ratio of 120. Figure 12C shows the bicomponent fiber at a draw down ratio of 140. Figure 12D shows the bicomponent fiber at a draw down ratio of 160.

[0095] The selected bicomponent fibers can be heat treated to re-interface the interface between the first filament and the second filament. Those heat treated fibers are heated with a heat gun at a temperature of about 104°C.

[0096] Figure 4A shows two sets of bicomponent fibers. One set is not heat treated after being drawn down and the other set is heat treated after being drawn down. Figure 4A shows each set of bicomponent fibers in a quiescent state. Figure 4B shows the bicomponent fibers exposed to moisture. Figure 4Aof the bicomponent fibers. Specifically, the group of bicomponent fibers is initially exposed to an environment having a humidity of 40% to about 60%, and the fibers are in turn lightly sprayed with water. As shown, the bicomponent fibers that are not heat treated expand in length percentage by about 30% in length, while the bicomponent fibers that are heat treated shrink in length percentage by about 50% in length.

[0097] The group of bicomponent fibers that are not heat treated are combined into a yarn. The group of bicomponent fibers that are heat treated are also combined into a yarn. The yarns are selectively used to form a woven textile that is incorporated into a garment.

[0098] It should be emphasized that the foregoing aspects of the disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations, and are merely presented to clearly understand the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications of the foregoing aspects of the disclosure can be made without departing from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein, within the scope of the disclosure.

[0099] The disclosure will be better understood by reading the following clauses, which are not to be confused with the claims.

[0100] Clause 1 : A textile comprising: a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or expands in length, in width, or in length and in width, by at least 1% relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity, when the relative humidity is changed by at least 10% in a range of about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity, due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers.

[0101] Clause 2: A textile comprising: a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% within a range of about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0102] Clause 3: A textile comprising: a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% within a range of about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0103] Clause 4: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-3, wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or expands at least 1% in width to about 60% in width, at least 1% in length to about 60% in length, or at least 1% in width to about 60% in width and 1% in length to about 60% in length.

[0104] Clause 5: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-4, wherein the first region of the textile defines about 5% to about 100% of a total surface area of the textile.

[0105] Clause 6: The textile of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the first region of the textile is in the range of about 0.05 mm 2 to about 10 mm 2 .

[0106] Clause 7: The textile of any of clauses 1-6, wherein: the textile further comprises a second region, and the second region contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to the quiescent state when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in the range of about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0107] Clause 8: The textile of clause 7, wherein the second region of the textile contracts if the first region expands or the second region expands if the first region contracts.

[0108] Clause 9: The textile of any of clauses 7 or 8, wherein the tensile strength of the first fibers of the second region of the textile differs by at least ±10% from the tensile strength of the first fibers of the first region of the textile.

[0109] Clause 10: The textile of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the first region of the textile comprises first fibers that are heat treated.

[0110] Clause 11: The textile of any of clauses 7-9, wherein the first region of the textile comprises a first concentration of the first fibers, and the second region of the textile comprises a second concentration of the first fibers, and the first concentration differs by at least ±10% from the second concentration.

[0111] Clause 12: The textile of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the first filaments have a weight percentage that is at least 5 wt% greater than the weight percentage of the second fibers on an individual fiber basis.

[0112] Clause 13: The textile of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more first polymers.

[0113] Clause 14: The textile of clause 13, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0114] Clause 15: The textile of any of clauses 13 or 14, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyester, a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyacrylamide, a polycarbonate, a polyether, a cellulose, a polyimide, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0115] Clause 16: The textile according to any one of clauses 13-15, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyamide.

[0116] Clause 17: The textile according to any one of clauses 13-16, wherein the one or more first polymers consist essentially of a polyamide.

[0117] Clause 18: The textile according to clause 16, wherein the polyamide comprises nylon 6; nylon 4,6; nylon 6,6; nylon 6,10; nylon 11; nylon 12, copolymers thereof, or mixtures thereof.

[0118] Clause 19: The textile according to any one of clauses 1-18, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs at least 10 wt% water.

[0119] Clause 20: The textile according to any one of clauses 1-19, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises a non-polymeric additive.

[0120] Clause 21: The textile according to clause 20, wherein the non-polymeric additive comprises from about 1 wt% to about 10 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0121] Clause 22: The textile according to any one of clauses 20 or 21, wherein the non-polymeric additive is a sulfonate component, a clay component, a phenol resin component, a cellulose component, a nanogel component, or mixtures thereof.

[0122] Clause 23: The textile according to any one of clauses 1-22, wherein the second thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more second polymers.

[0123] Clause 24: The textile according to clause 23, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise from about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the second thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0124] Clause 25: The textile according to any one of clauses 23 or 24, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, copolymers thereof, or mixtures thereof.

[0125] Clause 26: The textile according to any one of clauses 23-25, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester.

[0126] Clause 27: The textile according to any one of clauses 23-26, wherein the one or more second polymers consist essentially of one or more polyesters.

[0127] Clause 28: The textile according to Clause 26, wherein the one or more polyesters include polyglycolide, polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyhydroxybutyrate, polyethylene adipate, polybutylene succinate, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, copolymers thereof, or mixtures thereof.

[0128] Clause 29: The textile according to any of Clauses 23-28, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs at least 5 wt% more water than the second thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0129] Clause 30: The textile according to any of Clauses 23-29, wherein the second thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs less than 2 wt% water.

[0130] Clause 31 : The textile according to any of Clauses 1-30, wherein the textile is a nonwoven fabric.

[0131] Clause 32: The textile according to Clause 31, wherein the nonwoven fabric is a spunbond nonwoven fabric, a meltblown nonwoven fabric, a needle entangled nonwoven fabric, or a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric.

[0132] Clause 33: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-32, wherein in the first region, a majority of the first fibers are oriented in substantially the same direction relative to one another.

[0133] Clause 34: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-32, wherein the textile is a woven textile, a knitted textile, a knitted textile, or a nonwoven fabric.

[0134] Clause 35: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-31, wherein the textile comprises one or more yarns, the yarns comprising one or more first fibers.

[0135] Clause 36: The textile according to any of Clause 34 or Clause 35, wherein the textile is a knitted textile.

[0136] Clause 37: The textile according to any of Clauses 1-36, further comprising an adhesive attached to the textile.

[0137] Clause 38: The textile according to Clause 37, wherein the adhesive is at least one of a tape and a discontinuous film.

[0138] Clause 39: The textile according to any of Clause 37 or Clause 38, wherein the adhesive is a tape.

[0139] Clause 40: An article comprising the textile according to any of Clauses 1-39.

[0140] Clause 41 : The article of any of clauses 40, wherein the article comprises a plurality of panels.

[0141] Clause 42: The article of clause 41, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels comprises a textile.

[0142] Clause 43 : The article of clause 42, wherein the textile defines from about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% of the at least one panel.

[0143] Clause 44: The article of any of clauses 41-43, wherein the garment comprises a plurality of adjacent layers.

[0144] Clause 45 : The article of clause 44, wherein the textile is joined between the adjacent layers.

[0145] Clause 46: The article of clause 44 or clause 45, wherein at least one of the adjacent layers is a thermal barrier layer.

[0146] Clause 47 : The article of any of clauses 40-46, further comprising a slit defined by a surface of the article, and the slit extends at least partially through the article.

[0147] Clause 48: The article of clause 47, wherein the slit is adjacent to the textile.

[0148] Clause 49 : The article of any of clauses 47-48, wherein the slit is switchable between a first, substantially open position and a second, substantially closed position.

[0149] Clause 50: The article of clause 49, wherein the slit is in the substantially open position when the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width.

[0150] Clause 51 : The article of clause 49, wherein the slit is in the substantially closed position when the textile contracts at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width.

[0151] Clause 52: A method of forming a textile, comprising: forming the textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed from a second thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity, as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers, when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0152] Clause 53: A method of forming a textile, comprising: forming the textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed from a second thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity, as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers, when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0153] Clause 54: A method of forming a textile, comprising: forming the textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile shrinks or swells at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to swelling or shrinking of the one or more first fibers.

[0154] Clause 55: The method of any of clauses 52-54, further comprising increasing a temperature of the first region, wherein increasing the temperature of the first region of the textile will change a swelling or shrinking of the first region of the textile by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to a state of the first region prior to the temperature increase when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0155] Clause 56: The method of clause 55, wherein the increase in temperature of the first region is from about 30 seconds to about 6 hours.

[0156] Clause 57: The method of any of clauses 55 or 56, wherein the increase in temperature of the first region is a temperature range of about 50 degrees Celsius to about 280 degrees Celsius.

[0157] Clause 58: The method of any of clauses 52-57, wherein the first region comprises from about 10 wt% to about 100 wt% of the textile.

[0158] Clause 59: The method of any of clauses 52-58, further comprising applying an adhesive to the textile.

[0159] Clause 60: The method of clause 59, wherein applying the adhesive to the textile comprises at least one of spray coating the adhesive onto the textile and attaching an adhesive film to the textile.

[0160] Clause 61 : The method of any of clauses 52-60, further comprising arranging the one or more first fibers in substantially the same direction.

[0161] Clause 62: The method of any of clauses 52-61, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving the one or more first fibers in the form of a yarn, and the method further comprises the step of knitting, braiding, or weaving the yarn to form the first region of the textile.

[0162] Clause 63: A garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component, comprising: a textile, a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0163] Clause 64: An article of apparel, article of apparel component, article of footwear, or article of footwear component, comprising: a textile, a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second filament, the first filament formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0164] Clause 65: An article of apparel, article of apparel component, article of footwear, or article of footwear component, comprising: a textile, a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second filament, the first filament formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the first co-extruded filament and the second filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an interior surface of the individual first fiber, an exterior surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0165] Clause 66: The article of apparel, article of apparel component, article of footwear, or article of footwear component of any of clauses 63-65, wherein the first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in width to about 60% in width, at least 1% in length to about 60% in length, or at least 1% in width to about 60% in width and 1% in length to about 60% in length.

[0166] Clause 67: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-66, wherein the first region of the textile defines from about 5% to about 100% of the total surface area of the textile.

[0167] Clause 68: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-67, wherein: the textile further comprises a second region, and the second region contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to the quiescent state when the relative humidity varies by at least 10% over a range of from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0168] Clause 69: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 68, wherein the second region of the textile contracts if the first region expands or the second region expands if the first region contracts.

[0169] Clause 70: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-68, wherein the tensile strength of the first fibers of the second region of the textile differs from the tensile strength of the first fibers of the first region of the textile by at least ±10%.

[0170] Clause 71: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-70, wherein the first region of the textile comprises first fibers that are heat treated.

[0171] Clause 72: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-71, wherein the first region of the textile comprises a first concentration of first fibers and the second region of the textile comprises a second concentration of first fibers, and the first concentration differs from the second concentration by at least ±10%.

[0172] Clause 73: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-72, wherein the first filaments have a weight percentage that is at least 5 wt% greater than the weight percentage of the second fibers on an individual fiber basis.

[0173] Clause 74: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-73, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more first polymers.

[0174] Clause 75: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 74, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise from about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0175] Clause 76: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 74 or 75, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyester, a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyacrylamide, a polycarbonate, a polyether, a cellulose, a polyimide, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0176] Clause 77: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 74-76, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise one or more polyamides.

[0177] Clause 78: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 74-77, wherein the one or more first polymers consist essentially of a polyamide.

[0178] Clause 79: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clauses 77 or 78, wherein the polyamide comprises nylon 6; nylon 4,6; nylon 6,6; nylon 6,10; nylon 11; nylon 12, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0179] Clause 80: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-79, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs at least 10 wt% water.

[0180] Clause 81: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-80, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises a non-polymeric additive.

[0181] Clause 82: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 81, wherein the non-polymeric additive comprises from about 1 wt% to about 10 wt% of the first thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0182] Clause 83: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 81 or 82, wherein the non-polymeric additive is a sulfonate component, a clay component, a phenol resin component, a cellulose component, a nanogel component, or a mixture thereof.

[0183] Clause 84: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-83, wherein the second thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more second polymers.

[0184] Clause 85: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 84, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise from about 80 wt% to about 100 wt% of the second thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0185] Clause 86: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 84 or 85, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0186] Clause 87: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 84-86, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise one or more polyesters.

[0187] Clause 88: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 84-87, wherein the one or more second polymers consist essentially of one or more polyesters.

[0188] Clause 89: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 88, the one or more polyesters comprise polyglycolide, polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyhydroxybutyrate, polyethylene adipate, polybutylene succinate, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0189] Clause 90: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 84-88, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs at least 5 wt% more water than the second thermoplastic polymeric material.

[0190] Clause 91 : The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 84-90, wherein the second thermoplastic polymeric material absorbs less than 2 wt% water.

[0191] Clause 92: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-91, wherein the textile is a nonwoven fabric.

[0192] Clause 93: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 92, wherein the nonwoven fabric is a spunbond nonwoven fabric, a meltblown nonwoven fabric, a needle-punched nonwoven fabric, or a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric.

[0193] Clause 94: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-93, wherein, in the first region, a majority of the first fibers are oriented in substantially the same direction relative to one another.

[0194] Clause 95: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-94, wherein the textile is a woven textile, a braided textile, a knitted textile, or a nonwoven fabric.

[0195] Clause 96: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-95, wherein the textile comprises one or more yarns comprising one or more first fibers.

[0196] Clause 97: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-96, wherein the textile is a knit textile.

[0197] Clause 98: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-97, wherein the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component comprises a plurality of panels.

[0198] Clause 99: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 98, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels comprises a textile.

[0199] Clause 100: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 99, wherein the textile comprises from about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% of the at least one panel.

[0200] Clause 101: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-100, wherein the textile comprises from about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% of the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0201] Clause 102: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-101, wherein the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component comprises a plurality of adjacent layers.

[0202] Clause 103: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 102, wherein the textile is joined between the adjacent layers.

[0203] Clause 104: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 102 or clause 103, wherein at least one of the adjacent layers is a thermal barrier layer.

[0204] Clause 105: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-104, further comprising a slit defined by a surface of the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component, and extending at least partially through the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0205] Clause 106: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 105, wherein the slit extends at least partially through the textile.

[0206] Clause 107: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of clause 105 or clause 106, wherein the slit is adjacent to the textile.

[0207] Clause 108: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 105-107, wherein the slit is switchable between a first, substantially open position and a second, substantially closed position.

[0208] Clause 109: The article of any of clauses 106-108, wherein the slit is in the substantially open position when the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width.

[0209] Clause 110: The article of any of clauses 106-108, wherein the slit is in the substantially closed position when the textile contracts at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width.

[0210] Clause 111: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-110, wherein the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component is a garment or garment component.

[0211] Clause 112: The garment or garment component of clause 111, wherein the garment or garment component comprises a plurality of panels.

[0212] Clause 113: The garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component of any of clauses 63-112, wherein the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component is footwear or a footwear component.

[0213] Clause 114: The footwear or footwear component of clause 113, wherein the footwear or footwear component is footwear, and the footwear comprises a sole structure; and an upper connected to the sole structure to form an enclosure that at least partially accommodates a foot, and wherein the upper comprises the textile.

[0214] Clause 115: The footwear of clause 113, wherein the textile defines from about 5 wt% to about 100 wt% of the upper.

[0215] Clause 116: A method of forming a garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component, comprising receiving a textile according to any of clauses 63-115, and incorporating the textile into the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0216] Clause 117: A method of forming a garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component, the method comprising: forming a textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed from a second thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein, due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers, a first region of the textile contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; and incorporating the textile into the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0217] Clause 118: A method of forming a garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component, the method comprising: forming a textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed from a second thermoplastic polymer material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein, due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers, a first region of the textile contracts or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; and incorporating the textile into the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0218] Clause 119: A method of forming a garment, garment component, footwear, footwear component, comprising: forming a textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second filament, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the first co-extruded filament and the second filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an interior surface of the individual first fiber, an exterior surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber, the first filament and the second filament being joined to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile contracts or expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity of at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers; and incorporating the textile into the garment, garment component, footwear, or footwear component.

[0219] Clause 120: The method of any of clauses 117-119, further comprising increasing a temperature of the first region, wherein increasing the temperature of the first region of the textile will change expansion or contraction of the first region of the textile by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to a state of the first region prior to the temperature increase when relative humidity is changed by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0220] Clause 121: The method of clause 117, wherein the increase in temperature of the first region is from about 30 seconds to about 6 hours.

[0221] Clause 122: The method of any of clauses 117 or 118, wherein the increase in temperature of the first region is a temperature range of about 50 degrees Celsius to about 280 degrees Celsius.

[0222] Clause 123: The method of any of clauses 117-119, wherein the first region comprises from about 10 wt% to about 100 wt% of the textile.

[0223] Clause 124: The method of any of clauses 117-123, further comprising applying an adhesive to the textile.

[0224] Clause 125: The method of clause 124, wherein applying the adhesive to the textile comprises at least one of spraying the adhesive onto the textile and attaching an adhesive film to the textile.

[0225] Clause 126: The method of any of clauses 117-125, further comprising arranging the one or more first fibers in substantially the same direction.

[0226] Clause 127: The method of any of clauses 117-126, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving the one or more first fibers in the form of a yarn, and the method further comprises the step of knitting, braiding, or weaving the yarn to form the first region of the textile.

[0227] Clause 128: A textile comprising: a first region of the textile comprising one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament having an interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or swells by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of swelling or shrinking of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0228] Clause 129: The textile of clause 128, wherein the first filament and the second filament are substantially layered with respect to one another at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber.

[0229] Clause 130: The textile of clause 129, wherein the first fiber is characterized by shrinking relative to the equilibrium state of the first region prior to the change in relative humidity when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0230] Clause 131: The textile of clause 128, wherein the first filament and the second filament are substantially delaminated at the interface along the majority of the length of the individual first fiber.

[0231] Clause 132: The textile of clause 131, wherein the first fiber is characterized by swelling relative to the equilibrium state of the first region prior to the change in relative humidity when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

[0232] Clause 133: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the interface defines an inner surface of the individual first fiber, an outer surface of the individual first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber.

[0233] Clause 134: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the first filament has a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament is formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and has a cross-section comprising a convex surface.

[0234] Clause 135: The textile of Clause 134, wherein the co-extruded first filament and second filament have an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and partially surrounds the convex surface of the second filament.

[0235] Clause 136: The textile of Clause 134, wherein the second filament is formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material, wherein at the interface, the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament.

[0236] Clause 137: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the first region is present in a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component.

[0237] Clause 138: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the textile is a woven textile, a braided textile, a knitted textile, or a nonwoven fabric.

[0238] Clause 139: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the first region of the textile shrinks or expands relative to a resting state at least 1% in width to about 60% in width, at least 1% in length to about 60% in length, or at least 1% in width to about 60% in width and 1% in length to about 60% in length when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; wherein the textile further comprises a second region and the second region shrinks or expands relative to a resting state at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; wherein the second region of the textile shrinks if the first region expands or the second region expands if the first region shrinks.

[0239] Clause 140: The textile of Clause 128, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more first polymers, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyester, a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyacrylamide, a polycarbonate, a polyether, a cellulose, a polyimide, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0240] Clause 141 : The textile of Clause 128, wherein the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises a non-polymeric additive, wherein the non-polymeric additive is a sulfonate component, a clay component, a phenol resin component, a cellulose component, a nanogel component, or a mixture thereof.

[0241] Clause 142: The textile of Clause 136, wherein the second thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more second polymers, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

[0242] Clause 143: An article comprising the textile of Clause 128.

[0243] Clause 144: The article of Clause 143, wherein the article comprises a plurality of panels, wherein at least one panel of the plurality of panels comprises the textile, wherein the article comprises a slit defined by a surface of the article and extending at least partially through the article.

[0244] Clause 145: The article of Clause 144, wherein the slit is in a substantially open position when the textile shrinks by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width, wherein the slit is in a substantially closed position when the textile shrinks by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, and at least one of at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width.

[0245] Clause 146: The article of Clause 145, wherein the first region is present in a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component.

[0246] Clause 147: A method of forming a textile, comprising: forming the textile from one or more first fibers, a length of an individual first fiber being at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first co-extruded filament and a second co-extruded filament, the first co-extruded filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the first co-extruded filament and the second co-extruded filament having an interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber; wherein a first region of the textile shrinks or expands by at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity as a result of an expansion or a contraction of the one or more first fibers when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; incorporating the textile into a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component.

[0247] It should be noted that ratios, concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data can be expressed herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. To illustrate, a concentration range of "about 0.1 % to about 5%" should be interpreted to include not only about 0.1 wt% to about 5 wt%, but also the individual concentrations (e.g., 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and the sub-ranges (e.g., 0.5%, 1.1%, 2.2%, 3.3%, and 4.4%) within the indicated range. In an aspect, "about 0" can refer to 0, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1. In an aspect, the term "about" can include traditional rounding according to significant figures of the value. Additionally, the phrase "about 'x' to 'y'" includes "about 'x' to about 'y'".

[0248] It is to be emphasized that the foregoing aspects of the disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations and are merely set forth as examples in order to explain the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications of the foregoing aspects of the disclosure can be made which fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A textile comprising: a first region of the textile, the first region comprising one or more first fibers, an individual first fiber having a length at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament co-extruded, the first filament formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first filament and the second filament co-extruded having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament, wherein the first region is present in a garment or footwear; wherein the first filament and the second filament are layered to one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber, and due to shrinkage of the one or more first fibers, the first region of the textile shrinks at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; or wherein the first filament and the second filament are delaminated from one another at the interface along a majority of a length of the individual first fiber, and due to expansion of the one or more first fibers, the first region of the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

2. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first region is present in a garment component or footwear component.

3. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the textile is a knitted textile or a nonwoven.

4. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the textile is a woven textile.

5. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the textile is a braided textile.

6. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first region of the textile shrinks from 1% in width to about 60% in width, 1% in length to about 60% in length, or 1% in width to about 60% in width and 1% in length to about 60% in length relative to a quiescent state when relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; wherein the textile further comprises a second region, and the second region expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to a quiescent state when relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

7. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first region of the textile shrinks from 1% in width to about 60% in width, 1% in length to about 60% in length, or 1% in width to about 60% in width and 1% in length to about 60% in length relative to a quiescent state when relative humidity is varied at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

8. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first region of the textile expands from 1% of a width to about 60% of a width, 1% of a length to about 60% of a length, or 1% of a width to about 60% of a width and 1% of a length to about 60% of a length relative to a state of rest when the relative humidity is varied by at least 10% over a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

9. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more first polymers, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyester, a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyacrylamide, a polycarbonate, a polyether, a cellulose, a polyimide, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

10. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises a non-polymeric additive, wherein the non-polymeric additive is a sulfonate component, a clay component, or a mixture thereof.

11. The textile of claim 1, wherein, the second thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more second polymers, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

12. An article comprising the textile of claim 1.

13. The article of claim 12, wherein, the article comprises a plurality of panels, wherein at least one panel of the plurality of panels comprises the textile, wherein the article comprises a slit defined by a surface of the article and extending at least partially through the article.

14. The article of claim 13, wherein, the slit is in a substantially open position when the textile contracts by at least one of at least 1% of a length, at least 1% of a width, and at least 1% of a length and at least 1% of a width, or wherein the slit is in a substantially closed position when the textile contracts by at least one of at least 1% of a length, at least 1% of a width, and at least 1% of a length and at least 1% of a width.

15. The article of claim 14, wherein, the first region is present in a garment component or a footwear component.

16. A method of forming a textile, comprising: forming a first region of the textile, the first region comprising one or more first fibers, a single first fiber having a length that is at least 10 times greater than a width of the single first fiber, the single first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a concave surface, and the second filament being formed of a second thermoplastic polymeric material and having a cross-section comprising a convex surface, the first filament and the second filament that are co-extruded having an interface at which the concave surface of the first filament directly contacts and completely surrounds the convex surface of the second filament; wherein the first filament and the second filament are laminated to one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, and wherein the first region of the textile shrinks at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to shrinkage of the one or more first fibers; or wherein the first filament and the second filament are delaminated from one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, and wherein the first region of the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to expansion of the one or more first fibers. incorporating the textile into a garment or footwear.

17. A textile comprising: a first region of the textile, the first region comprising one or more first fibers, an individual first fiber having a length that is at least 10 times greater than a width of the individual first fiber, the individual first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an interior surface of the individual first fiber; wherein the first filament and the second filament are laminated to one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, and wherein the first region of the textile shrinks at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to shrinkage of the one or more first fibers; or wherein the first filament and the second filament are delaminated from one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the individual first fiber, and wherein the first region of the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% in a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity due to expansion of the one or more first fibers.

18. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first region is present in a garment or footwear.

19. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first region is present in a garment component or footwear component.

20. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the textile is a knitted textile or a nonwoven.

21. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the textile is a woven textile.

22. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the textile is a braided textile.

23. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first region of the textile contracts from 1% of a width to about 60% of a width, 1% of a length to about 60% of a length, or 1% of a width to about 60% of a width and 1% of a length to about 60% of a length relative to a resting state when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% over a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; 24. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first region of the textile contracts from 1% of a width to about 60% of a width, 1% of a length to about 60% of a length, or 1% of a width to about 60% of a width and 1% of a length to about 60% of a length relative to a resting state when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% over a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

25. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first region of the textile contracts from 1% of a width to about 60% of a width, 1% of a length to about 60% of a length, or 1% of a width to about 60% of a width and 1% of a length to about 60% of a length relative to a resting state when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% over a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity.

26. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more first polymers, wherein the one or more first polymers comprise a polyester, a polyamide, a polyurethane, a polyacrylamide, a polycarbonate, a polyether, a cellulose, a polyimide, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

27. The textile of claim 17, wherein, the first thermoplastic polymeric material comprises a non-polymeric additive, wherein the non-polymeric additive is a sulfonate component, a clay component, or a mixture thereof.

28. The textile of claim 27, wherein, the second thermoplastic polymeric material comprises one or more second polymers, wherein the one or more second polymers comprise a polyester, a polyether, a polycarbonate, a polyolefin, a polystyrene, a polyacrylate, a polyvinyl chloride, a polyvinyl ether, a fluoropolymer, a copolymer thereof, or a mixture thereof.

29. An article comprising the textile of claim 28.

30. The article of claim 29, wherein, the article comprises a plurality of panels, wherein at least one panel of the plurality of panels comprises the textile, wherein the article comprises a slit defined by a surface of the article and extending at least partially through the article.

31. The article of claim 30, wherein, the slit is in a substantially open position when the textile contracts by at least one of at least 1% of a length, at least 1% of a width, and at least 1% of a length and at least 1% of a width, or wherein the slit is in a substantially closed position when the textile contracts by at least one of at least 1% of a length, at least 1% of a width, and at least 1% of a length and at least 1% of a width.

32. The article of claim 31, wherein, the first region is present in a garment or footwear.

33. The article of claim 31, wherein, the first region is present in a garment component or footwear component.

34. A method of forming a textile, comprising: the first region of the textile contracts from 1% of a width to about 60% of a width, 1% of a length to about 60% of a length, or 1% of a width to about 60% of a width and 1% of a length to about 60% of a length relative to a resting state when relative humidity is varied by at least 10% over a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; forming a first region of the textile, the first region comprising one or more first fibers, a single first fiber having a length that is at least 10 times greater than a width of the single first fiber, the single first fiber comprising a first filament and a second filament that are co-extruded, the first filament being formed from a first thermoplastic polymeric material, the co-extruded first filament and second filament having an interface at which the first filament directly contacts the second filament, the interface defining an inner surface of the single first fiber, an outer surface of the single first fiber being defined by a portion of the first filament along a majority of a length of the single first fiber and a portion of the second filament along a majority of the length of the single first fiber; wherein the first filament and the second filament are layered with respect to one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the single first fiber, and due to a contraction of the one or more first fibers, the first region of the textile contracts at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; or wherein the first filament and the second filament are delaminated from one another at the interface along a majority of the length of the single first fiber, and due to an expansion of the one or more first fibers, the first region of the textile expands at least 1% in length, at least 1% in width, or at least 1% in length and at least 1% in width relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to a change in relative humidity when a relative humidity is varied by at least 10% within a range from about 30% relative humidity to about 100% relative humidity; incorporating the textile into an article of apparel or footwear.

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