Articles of apparel containing ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

Abstract

An article of clothing is disclosed. The article of apparel includes at least one base knit zone and at least one reinforcing knit zone. Each base knit zone is formed from a base knitted fabric comprising ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers and at least one base drawn fiber knitted together in a plaited structure to form a plain knitted fabric. Each reinforced knit zone is formed from a reinforced knit comprising UHMWPE fibers and at least one base stretched fiber. The UHMWPE fibers and the at least one base drawn fiber are knitted together in a plaited structure to form a plain knitted fabric. The reinforced knit region further includes reinforced stretched fibers that are alternately knitted with the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric. Within each given weft path of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, for m + n consecutive stitches of each sequence of the weft path, the reinforced stretched fibers are looped with m consecutive stitches of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric and the n consecutive stitches of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric are not looped with the reinforced stretched fibers.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This Patent Cooperation Treaty application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 335,514, filed on April 27, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to articles of apparel comprising ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Background Art

[0004] UHMWPE fibers made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene resins have high performance tensile properties, such as tensile strength, tensile modulus, and energy to break. Clothing articles comprising UHMWPE fibers can benefit from the high performance properties of UHMWPE fibers.

[0005] Seamless garments generally refer to garments that are constructed in a single and continuous knitting process. This method eliminates side seams, requires less sewing and stitching, and fewer joints. Seamless garments offer increased comfort and aesthetics, and are now widely used in all types of garments, including intimate fitness apparel such as leggings, shirts, tops, as well as shapewear, bras, and underwear. Seamless underwear has gained popularity over the years. Seamless underwear has fewer seams, which reduces friction, reduces the visibility of the underwear, and makes the underwear smoother and more contoured.

[0006] A disadvantage of seamless underwear, especially seamless bras, is that although seamless underwear provides better comfort, it does not provide as much breast support as traditional seamed bras (e.g., bras with underwires). In addition, seamless bras without any molded cups tend to cause mono-breasting or a sense of oppression. Molded or separate cups keep the breasts neatly placed and separate. Increasing the transparency and thinness of areas of the underwear (e.g., the chest area or the hip area) can make people feel comfortable and pleasant. However, increasing the transparency of the material is usually detrimental to its resistance and tensile strength.

[0007]

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for articles of clothing, particularly seamless undergarments, that exhibit a desired level of transparency while providing support, tensile strength, tear resistance, and an attractive appearance to the wearer. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to one aspect, a clothing article is provided. The clothing article includes at least one basic knitted area and at least one reinforced knitted area. Each of the at least one basic knitted area is formed by a basic knitted fabric, and the basic knitted fabric includes ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber and at least one basic stretch fiber. The UHMWPE fiber and the at least one basic stretch fiber are knitted together in a plated structure to form a plain knitted fabric. Each of the at least one reinforced knitted area is formed by a reinforced knitted fabric including UHMWPE fiber and at least one basic stretch fiber, and the UHMWPE fiber and the at least one basic stretch fiber are knitted together in a plated structure to form a plain knitted fabric. The reinforced knitted area also includes reinforced stretch fibers knitted alternately with the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric. In each given weft path of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, for each sequence of m+n continuous coils of the weft path, the reinforced stretch fiber is looped with the m continuous coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, and the n continuous coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric (after the m continuous coils) are not looped with the reinforced stretch fiber.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one base knit region and at least one reinforcement knit region are integrally formed by a continuous knitting operation.

[0010] In some embodiments, m is equal to or greater than 1, and n is equal to or greater than 1.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforced knitted area comprises at least one vertical reinforced knitted area. A sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any given weft of the at least one vertical reinforced knitted area is aligned with a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any other weft of the at least one vertical reinforced knitted area.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforced knitted area comprises at least one bias reinforced knitted area. For at least one group of two adjacent weft paths of the at least one bias reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a first weft path of the at least one group of two adjacent weft paths is offset relative to a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a second weft path of the at least one group of two adjacent weft paths.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least one oblique reinforced knitted area includes an S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area. The S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have an offset of a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a first weft path and a second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths. The offset of the sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of the first weft path and the second weft path in each of the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths is offset in the same left direction.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one diagonal reinforced knitted area includes a diagonal reinforced knitted area in the Z direction. The diagonal reinforced knitted area in the Z direction includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have an offset of a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a first weft path and a second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths. The offset of the sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of the first weft path and the second weft path of each of the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths is offset in the same rightward direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knitted area includes at least one check reinforced knitted area. For at least one first group of two adjacent wefts of at least one diagonal reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a first weft of at least one first group of two adjacent wefts is offset in a first direction relative to a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a second weft of at least one first group of two adjacent wefts. For at least one second group of two adjacent wefts of at least one diagonal reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a first weft of at least one second group of two adjacent wefts is offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a second weft of at least one second group of two adjacent wefts.

[0016] In some embodiments, the article of apparel further comprises at least one pinch area having pinch stitches.

[0017] In some embodiments, the elasticity of at least one base knitted area is greater than the elasticity of at least one reinforced knitted area.

[0018] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises a plurality of UHMWPE microfilaments.

[0019] In some embodiments, the article of clothing is a breast support garment including a base. The at least one basic knitted area includes a first breast area, a second breast area, an upper back area, a first shoulder strap area extending from an upper edge of the first breast area to the upper back area, and a second shoulder strap area extending from an upper edge of the second breast area to the upper back area. The at least one reinforced knitted area includes a first breast reinforcement area, a second breast reinforcement area, and a central reinforcement area. The first breast reinforcement area extends from a lower edge of the first breast area to an upper edge of the base, the second breast reinforcement area extends from a lower edge of the second breast area to an upper edge of the base, and the central reinforcement area is defined between the first breast area and the second breast area and extends downward to the upper edge of the base.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises a back reinforcement area extending from a lower edge of the upper back area to an upper edge of the base.

[0021] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises a first lateral reinforced area and a second lateral reinforced area. The first lateral reinforced area extends between the first breast reinforcement area and the back reinforcement area, and extends longitudinally between the lower edge of the first arm hole defining the garment article and the upper edge of the bottom circumference. The second lateral reinforced area extends between the second breast reinforcement area and the back reinforcement area, and extends longitudinally between the lower edge of the second arm hole defining the garment article and the upper edge of the bottom circumference.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first breast reinforcement zone, the second breast reinforcement zone, the central breast reinforcement zone, the back reinforcement zone, the first lateral reinforcement zone, and the second lateral reinforcement zone form a single continuous reinforcement zone.

[0023] In some embodiments, each of the reinforcement zones is a vertical reinforcement knit zone.A sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any given weft of the vertical reinforcement knit zone is aligned with a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any other weft of the vertical reinforcement knit zone.

[0024] In some embodiments, a support band for providing breast support is formed on at least one reinforced knitted area.

[0025] In some embodiments, the support strip is a single continuous support strip.

[0026] In some embodiments, the support band is configured to conform to the contours of the underside of the wearer's breast.

[0027] In some embodiments, the support band is W-shaped, extending from the first lateral reinforcement zone, through the first breast reinforcement zone, up to the central reinforcement zone, and through the second breast reinforcement zone to the second lateral reinforcement zone.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the support strap extend upward toward lower edges defining the first and second arm apertures, respectively.

[0029] In some embodiments, the support strap is formed from a rope.

[0030] In some embodiments, the breast support garment is a bra. In some embodiments, the bra is a wire-free bra or a racerback bra. In some embodiments, the breast support garment is a strapless bra.

[0031] In some embodiments, the strapless bra is a low waist bra.

[0032] In some embodiments, the article of clothing is an underpants comprising a waistband, a gusset, a first bottom end and a second bottom end. The first bottom end and the second bottom end define a first leg hole and a second leg hole, respectively. The at least one base knitted area comprises a rear region of a rear portion of the article of clothing.

[0033] In some embodiments, the rear region extends from a left side to a right side of the rear of the article of clothing and from the waistband.

[0034] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knitted area includes a vertical reinforced area extending on a central sub-portion of the front portion of the garment article, a first S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the left side of the vertical reinforced area, and / or a first Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area, wherein the first Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extends from the right side of the vertical reinforced area (and extends from the waistband to the bottom end of the garment article).

[0035] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knitted area includes a first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area and / or a first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area. The first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the right side of the central part of the front of the garment article toward the rear of the garment article, or from the left side of the central part of the front of the garment article toward the rear of the garment article. The first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the left side of the central part of the front of the garment article or from the right side of the central part of the front of the garment article toward the rear of the garment article.

[0036] In some embodiments, one or more of the reinforced knitted areas extend longitudinally from the waistband to the first bottom end or the second bottom end of the garment article. In some embodiments, the vertical reinforced area extends from the waistband of the garment article to the bottom end. In some embodiments, the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the waistband of the garment article to the bottom end. In some embodiments, the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the waistband of the garment article to the bottom end.

[0037] In some embodiments, the vertical reinforcement area extends from the waistband to the gusset. In some embodiments, the first S-direction oblique reinforcement knitted area extends from the waistband of the garment article to the first bottom end or the second bottom end. In some embodiments, the first Z-direction oblique reinforcement knitted area extends from the waistband of the garment article to the first bottom end or the second bottom end.

[0038] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knitted area further includes a second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, a first checkered reinforced knitted area, a second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, and / or a second checkered reinforced knitted area. The second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the left edge of the front of the garment article to the outer edge of the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, and the outer edge of the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the left side of the central part of the front of the garment article. The first checkered reinforced knitted area extends between the S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the left side of the central part of the front of the garment article and the second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area in the front of the garment article. The second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the right edge of the front of the garment article to the outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, and the outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the right side of the central part of the front of the garment article. The second checkered reinforced knitted area extends between the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the right side of the central part of the front of the garment article and the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area in the front of the garment article.

[0039] In some embodiments, the second Z-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband and the first bottom end of the article of clothing to the first bottom end of the article of clothing.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area also extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband and the second bottom end of the clothing article to the second bottom end of the clothing article.

[0041] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises a third Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the left edge of the rear portion of the garment article, and / or a third S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending along the right edge of the rear portion of the garment article.

[0042] In some embodiments, a third S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the right edge of the rear portion of the garment article and a second Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the left edge of the front portion of the garment article are joined together to form a first V-shaped pattern.

[0043] In some embodiments, a third Z-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from a left edge of the rear portion of the article of clothing and a second S-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from a right edge of the front portion of the article of clothing are joined together to form a second V-shaped pattern.

[0044] In some embodiments, at least one base knit region further includes a front area.

[0045] In some embodiments, at least one basic knitted area further comprises a first front basic area. The first front basic area extends longitudinally from an intermediate position between the waistband of the article of clothing and the first bottom end of the front portion to the waistband, and optionally extends transversely from the left side of the article of clothing toward the central portion of the front portion of the article of clothing.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least one basic knitted area further comprises a second front basic area, which extends longitudinally from an intermediate position between the waistband and the second bottom end of the article of clothing to the waistband, and optionally extends transversely from the right side of the front of the article of clothing toward the central portion of the front of the article of clothing.

[0047] In some embodiments, the underpants are briefs, optionally low-waisted briefs or high-waisted briefs. In some embodiments, the underpants are boxer briefs.

[0048] In some embodiments, the waistband contains no UHMWPE.

[0049] In some embodiments, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of 40 or less, an apparent denier of 30 or less, or an apparent denier of 20 or less.

[0050] In some embodiments, at least one reinforced knit region has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 120, an apparent denier of about 70 to about 110, or an apparent denier of about 80 to about 100.

[0051] In some embodiments, the stretch fibers include spandex, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyolefin, and polyester fibers, and combinations thereof.

[0052] In some embodiments, the base knit and / or the reinforcement knit further comprises one or more companion fibers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The present invention can be best understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. On the contrary, the sizes and spatial relationships of the various features may be arbitrarily enlarged or reduced for the sake of clarity. Throughout the specification and drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same features. In the drawings:

[0054] Figure 1 is a front view of a wire-free bra according to some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A rear view of a wire-free bra;

[0056] Figure 3 is a front view of a boxer brief according to some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Rear view of boxer briefs;

[0058] Figure 5 is a front view of a high waist brief according to some embodiments;

[0059] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Rear view of high waisted briefs;

[0060] Figure 7 is a picture of a vertically reinforced knitted area according to some embodiments;

[0061] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a knitting pattern of a vertically reinforced knitted area, wherein the reinforcing tensile fibers are shown in red;

[0062] Fig. 9 is a photograph showing a Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area according to some embodiments;

[0063] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a knitting pattern of a Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area of ​​a reinforced knitted area, wherein the reinforced tensile fibers are shown in red and include the letter "Z" to show the direction;

[0064] Fig.11 is a photograph showing an S-direction oblique reinforced braided region of a reinforced braided region according to some embodiments;

[0065] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A schematic diagram of a weaving pattern of an S-direction oblique reinforcement weaving region of a reinforcement weaving region, wherein the reinforcement tensile fibers are shown in red and include the letter "S" to indicate the direction;

[0066] Fig.13 is a photograph showing a checkered reinforced knitted area according to some embodiments;

[0067] Fig.14 is a schematic diagram showing 1x1 offset knitting of a knitted fabric according to some embodiments;

[0068] Fig.15 is a front view of a racer-back bra according to some embodiments; and

[0069] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Rear view of a racerback bra. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Although the above description provides examples of embodiments, it will be understood that some features and / or functions of the embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and operating principles of the embodiments. Therefore, the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and those skilled in the art will understand that other variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0071] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures are not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments. Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and the appended claims, the word "include" and variations thereof (e.g., "comprising") should be interpreted as open, inclusive meanings, i.e., as "including but not limited to". In addition, the titles provided herein are for convenience only and are not intended to explain the scope or meaning of the claimed invention.

[0072] References to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" throughout the specification mean that the particular features, structures, or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing in various places in this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. In addition, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner. In addition, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally used in its sense that includes "and / or" unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "about" has the meaning that one skilled in the art would reasonably give it when used in conjunction with a stated value or range, i.e., to mean slightly larger or smaller than the stated value or range, within ±20% of the stated value; within ±19% of the stated value; within ±18% of the stated value; within ±17% of the stated value; within ±16% of the stated value; within ±15% of the stated value; within ±14% of the stated value; within ±13% of the stated value; within ±12% of the stated value; within ±11% of the stated value; within ±10% of the stated value; within ±9% of the stated value; within ±8% of the stated value; within ±7% of the stated value; within ±6% of the stated value; within ±5% of the stated value; within ±4% of the stated value; within ±3% of the stated value; within ±2% of the stated value; or within ±1% of the stated value.

[0073] As used herein, the term "UHMWPE" refers to ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, also known as high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) or high performance polyethylene (HPPE).

[0074] As used herein, the term "fiber" refers to a single source matrix composed of one or more filaments. A fiber has an elongated body with a length dimension much greater than the transverse dimensions of width and thickness.

[0075] As used herein, the term "filament" refers to a single fibril of material, which may be a fiber by itself or may be combined with other filaments to produce a multifilament fiber. A single fiber may be formed from only one filament or from a plurality of filaments.

[0076] As used herein, the term "microfilaments" refers to filaments having a denier of 5 or less.

[0077] The term "denier" as used herein refers to a unit of weight that indicates the fineness of fiber filaments. Denier can be measured in grams per 9,000 meters of fiber. Lower deniers indicate finer fibers, and higher deniers indicate thicker or heavier fibers.

[0078] The term "dtex" as used herein refers to another weight unit that indicates the fineness of fiber filaments. Decitex can be measured in grams per 10,000 meters.

[0079] The term "tensile strength" as used herein relates to the durability of a garment and is measured by the maximum stress a material can withstand when stretched or pulled before breaking. Tensile strength is measured as force per unit area and can be expressed in units of grams-force (gf) and centinewtons (cN) per dtex.

[0080] As used herein, the term "elongation" refers to the stretching of individual fibers and composite fibers that results in the elasticity of the final embodiments of the present invention. Elongation is measured as a percentage of the initial length.

[0081] As used herein, the term "natural fibers" refers to the category of fibers that can be obtained from materials of natural origin.

[0082] The term "synthetic fiber" used herein refers to a fiber category separated from natural fibers. Therefore, synthetic fibers include polymeric materials synthesized by polymerization of monomers, fibers obtained by regenerating natural fibers after, for example, dissolving in a solvent, and glass fibers.

[0083] As used herein, the term "stretch fiber" refers to a class of fibers that can be stretched to at least about 130% of their original dimensions without breaking when a force is applied. Stretchable fibers include, but are not limited to, spandex, polypropylene, polyamide, polyurethane, polyolefin, and polyester fibers.

[0084] As used herein, the term "high performance fibers" refers to a class of fibers having high tenacity values ​​(e.g., greater than 10 g / denier), making high performance fibers suitable for applications where high abrasion and / or cut resistance is important. Typically, high performance fibers have a high degree of molecular orientation and crystallinity in the final fiber structure.

[0085] The term "plating" as used herein refers to the technique of knitting two fibers together to form two different layers. Although knitted in the same stitch, one of the fibers remains on the back, behind the front fiber.

[0086] As used herein, the term "apparent denier" refers to the total denier of the visible fibers used in a woven fabric, wherein transparent fibers are considered non-apparent fibers for purposes of this application.

[0087] "Tensile properties" are properties measured when a material is subjected to a tensile force, and properties measured when the tensile force is removed. Exemplary tensile properties include, but are not limited to, tensile strength at break, percent elongation at break, elastic modulus, toughness or tensile energy at break, permanent set, tensile load at a specified elongation, etc. The tensile properties of polymer fibers can be determined, for example, by standard test methods (e.g., ASTM D2256 / D2256M-21, "Tensile Properties of Yarns by the Single Ply Method").

[0088] Therefore, the present invention provides a clothing article containing UHMPE fibers. The clothing article includes at least one basic knitted area and at least one reinforced knitted area. At least one basic knitted area is formed by a basic knitted fabric, the basic knitted fabric includes UHMWPE fibers and at least one basic stretch fiber, and the UHMWPE fibers and the at least one basic stretch fiber are knitted together in a plaiting structure to form a plain knitted fabric. At least one reinforced knitted area is formed by a reinforced knitted fabric, the reinforced knitted fabric includes UHMWPE fibers and at least one basic stretch fiber, and the UHMWPE fibers and the at least one basic stretch fiber are knitted together in a plaiting structure to form a plain knitted fabric. The reinforced knitted area also includes a reinforced stretch fiber knitted alternately with the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, wherein in each given weft course of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, for each sequence of m+n consecutive coils of the weft course, the reinforced stretch fiber is looped with the m consecutive coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, and the n consecutive coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric (after the m consecutive coils)) are not looped with the reinforced stretch fiber. Thus, the sequence of m+n consecutive coils is repeated throughout the weft.

[0089] In some embodiments, at least one base knit region and at least one reinforcement knit region are integrally formed by a continuous knitting operation.

[0090] In some embodiments, m is equal to or greater than 1, and n is equal to or greater than 1.

[0091] In some embodiments, the reinforced knitted area includes at least one vertical reinforced knitted area, and the sequence of m+n consecutive loops of any given weft of the vertical reinforced knitted area is aligned with the sequence of m+n consecutive loops of any other weft of the vertical reinforced knitted area.

[0092] Now refer to Figure 7 ,in particular Figure 8 (where the reinforcing tensile fibers are shown in red), wherein is a knitted reinforcement area, wherein m is equal to 1 and n is equal to 3, in this exemplary configuration, the reinforcing tensile fiber is looped with 1 continuous loop of the jersey knit of the reinforcing knitted fabric, and 3 continuous loops of the jersey knit of the reinforcing knitted fabric are not looped with such reinforcing tensile fiber. The alignment of the vertical reinforcing knitted areas provides a vertical ribbed appearance to the knit, such as Figure 7 and 8 shown. Figure 1 and 2 The exemplary non-wired bra shown and Figure 3 The boxer briefs shown (and described further below) include portions that exhibit vertical ribbing.

[0093] It will be appreciated that the appearance of the vertical rib pattern can be modified by changing the values ​​of m and n stitches. For example, a thicker rib pattern can be obtained by increasing the value of m, and the distance between ribs can also be changed by changing the value of n. For example, increasing the value of n will provide a wider rib pattern (i.e., a greater distance between ribs), while decreasing the value of n will provide a narrower rib pattern.

[0094] In some embodiments, the reinforced braided area includes at least one diagonal reinforced braided area, such as Figure 3 and 4 Boxer briefs and Figure 5 and 6 The twill pattern is the result of misalignment of a subsequent given weft path. In this structure, for at least one set of two adjacent weft paths, the sequence of m+n consecutive loops of a first weft path of the set of two adjacent weft paths is offset relative to the sequence of m+n consecutive loops of a second weft path of the set of two adjacent weft paths.

[0095] Now refer to Fig.11 and 12, which is an enlarged view of an exemplary S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area. In one embodiment, the S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have an offset of a sequence of m+n continuous loops of a first weft path and a second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths. The offset of the sequence of m+n continuous loops of the first weft path and the second weft path of each of the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths is offset in the same leftward direction, whereby the offset of the weft paths across the S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area forms at least one S-direction diagonal rib.

[0096] like Fig.11 and 12 As shown, m is equal to 2, n is equal to 3, and in this exemplary configuration, for each weft, the reinforcing stretch fiber is surrounded by 2 consecutive loops of the jersey knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric, while 3 consecutive loops of the jersey knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric are not surrounded by such reinforcing stretch fiber. This will be Fig.12 Specifically shown in FIG. 5 , the reinforcing tensile fibers are shown in red.

[0097] Reference now Fig. 9 and 10 In some embodiments, the clothing article may include at least one Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area. In one embodiment, the Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have an offset of a sequence of m+n continuous loops of a first weft path and a second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths. The offset of the sequence of m+n continuous loops of the first weft path and the second weft path of each of the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths is offset in the same right direction, thereby forming at least one Z-direction diagonal rib by the offset of the weft paths across the Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area.

[0098] like Fig. 9 and 10 As shown, m is equal to 2, n is equal to 3, and in this exemplary structure, for each weft, the reinforcing stretch fiber is surrounded by 2 consecutive loops of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric, and 3 consecutive loops of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric are not surrounded by such reinforcing stretch fiber. This will be Fig.10 Specifically shown in FIG. 5 , the reinforcing tensile fibers are shown in red.

[0099] As will be readily appreciated, the appearance of the bias ribbing (whether in the Z or S direction) can be modified by changing the values ​​of m and n stitches. For example, a thicker bias ribbing pattern can be obtained by increasing the value of m. The distance between ribs can also be changed by changing the value of n. For example, increasing the value of n will provide a wider ribbing pattern (i.e., a greater distance between ribs), while decreasing the value of n will provide a narrower ribbing pattern.

[0100] According to Fig.11 and 12 In another illustrated embodiment, the article of clothing further includes at least one checkered reinforced knit area. Fig.13 An enlarged view of the knit pattern showing the check reinforced knit area.

[0101] Special reference Fig.14 (wherein the reinforced tensile fibers are shown in red), for at least one first group of two adjacent weft paths of the oblique reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a first weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the first group is offset in a first direction from a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a second weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the first group; and wherein for at least one second group of two adjacent weft paths of the oblique reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a first weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the second group is offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction from a sequence of m+n continuous coils of a second weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the second group.

[0102] like Fig.13 and 14 As shown, m is equal to 1, n is equal to 1, and in this exemplary structure, for each weft path, the reinforcing stretch fiber forms a loop with one continuous loop of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric, and one continuous loop of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforcing knitted fabric does not form a loop with such reinforcing stretch fiber.

[0103] In some embodiments, an article of clothing may have at least one pinch seam area having pinch stitching. Figure 1 The breast support garment includes a pinched area with pinched stitching. The pinched area provides a pleated effect, which helps to define a separate cup for accommodating the breast, thereby preventing the appearance of a mono-breast.

[0104] In one aspect, the present invention relates to an undergarment article. Figure 1 and Figure 2, an exemplary breast support garment 10 is provided. The breast support garment 10 includes a base 12, a first breast area 14, a second breast area 16, an upper back area 18, and a first shoulder strap area 20 and a second shoulder strap area 22. The first shoulder strap area 20 extends from the upper edge of the first breast area 14 to the upper back area 18. The second shoulder strap area 22 extends from the upper edge of the second breast area 16 to the upper back area 18. The exemplary underwire-free bra includes a plurality of reinforced woven areas. The first breast reinforcement area 24 extends from the lower edge of the first breast area 14 to the upper edge of the base 12. The second breast reinforcement area 26 extends from the lower edge of the second breast area 16 to the upper edge of the base 12. The central reinforcement area 28 is defined between the first breast area 14 and the second breast area 16, and extends downward to the upper edge of the base 12. In this particular example, the reinforced woven area extends all around the back of the underwire-free bra, forming a back reinforcement area 42 extending from the lower edge of the upper back area 18 to the upper edge of the base 12. As shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the at least one reinforced knitted area also includes a first lateral reinforcement area 30, which extends between the first chest reinforcement area 24 and the back reinforcement area 42, and extends longitudinally between the lower edge of the first arm hole 38 defining the garment article 10 and the upper edge of the bottom circumference 12. Similarly, the second lateral reinforcement area 32 extends between the second breast reinforcement area 26 and the back reinforcement area 42, and extends longitudinally between the lower edge of the second arm hole 40 defining the garment article 10 and the upper edge of the bottom circumference 12.

[0105] In some embodiments, the reinforcement knitted area is divided, for example, between sections of the basic knitted area (one or more). Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first breast reinforcement area 24, the second breast reinforcement area 26, the central breast reinforcement area 28, the back reinforcement area 42, the first lateral reinforcement area 30 and the second lateral reinforcement area 32 form a single continuous reinforcement area. Figure 1 and 2 Each of the reinforced areas of the underwire-free bra is a vertical reinforced knitted area and has a sequence of m+n continuous coils in any given weft path of the vertical reinforced knitted area, which is aligned with the sequence of m+n continuous coils in any other weft path of the vertical reinforced knitted area.

[0106] In some embodiments, additional support straps are included on or near the vertical reinforced knitted area to provide additional breast support. Figure 1, wherein a support band 34 formed on at least one reinforced knitted area is provided. The support band can be a single continuous support band, or can be composed of smaller support band segments that are included where breast support is most desired, such as under the breasts and on the outside of each breast. For example, the support band is configured to conform to the underside contour of the wearer's breasts. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the support band is W-shaped, extending from the first lateral reinforcement area 30, through the first breast reinforcement area 34, upward into the central reinforcement area 28, through the second breast reinforcement area 26 and reaching the second lateral reinforcement area 32. The first end and the second end of the support band 34 extend upward toward the lower edge defining the first arm hole 38 and the second arm hole 40, respectively. In some embodiments, the support band is included on the vertical reinforcement braided area. In other embodiments, the support band is included at the edge defining the reinforcement braided area and the base area.

[0107] In some embodiments, the support band 34 may be made of a cord or other braid that provides increased rigidity compared to the base and reinforcement braid regions to provide breast support (similar to a traditional bra underwire).

[0108] Figure 1 and 2 The breast support garment shown is a non-wired bra, however, other breast support garments are also contemplated, including but not limited to rackbacks, tanks, crop tops, etc.

[0109] In some embodiments, the breast support garment is a racerback tank top, such as Fig.15 and 16 As shown in FIG. 1 , it can be seen that the exemplary racerback vest is similar to the racerback vest except that the straps are thinner and cross at the rear end. Figure 1 and 2 Similar to a wire-free bra.

[0110] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a pair of underpants (or underwear hem). Figure 3 and Figure 4 , a boxer (or short) underpants 50 includes a waistband 52, a gusset 54, a first bottom end 56, and a second bottom end 58, the first and second bottom ends defining a first leg hole and a second leg hole, respectively. At least one base knitted area includes a rear region of a rear portion 60 of the boxer 50. In some embodiments, the rear region extends from a left side to a right side of the rear portion 60 and extends longitudinally from the waistband 52 to the bottom ends 56, 58 and the gusset 54.

[0111] Still refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4, the boxer pants 50 has a vertical reinforcement area 62 extending over a central sub-portion of the front of the boxer pants 50. The front of the boxer pants 50 also has a first S-direction oblique reinforcement woven area 64 extending from the left side of the vertical reinforcement area 62 and a first Z-direction oblique reinforcement knitted area 66 extending from the right side of the vertical reinforcement area 62.

[0112] In some embodiments, one or more of the reinforced knit areas extend longitudinally from the waistband to the first or second bottom end or gusset of the article of apparel.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, the vertical reinforcement area 62 extends from the waistband 52 to the gusset 54.

[0114] In other embodiments, the article of clothing has no vertical reinforcement areas, but instead includes one or more diagonal reinforcement knit areas. Figure 5 and Figure 6 , wherein there is a high waist brief 90 including a waistband 92, a triangular gusset 94, and a first bottom end and a second bottom end defining a first leg hole and a second leg hole, respectively. The brief 90 includes two reinforced woven areas, namely, a first S-direction oblique reinforced woven area 98 extending from the right side of the center portion of the front of the brief 90 toward the back of the brief 90, and a first Z-direction oblique reinforced woven area 96 extending from the left side of the center portion of the front of the brief 90 toward the back of the brief 90.

[0115] In other embodiments (not shown), the underpants may include a first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the left side of the center portion of the front of the garment article toward the back of the garment article; and / or a first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the right side of the center portion of the front of the garment article toward the back of the garment article.

[0116] The first S-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area and / or the Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area can also extend from the waistband to the first bottom end or the second bottom end of the clothing article, such as Figure 3 and Figure 5 shown.

[0117] In some embodiments, the clothing article further includes: a second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, which extends from the left edge of the front of the clothing article to the outer edge of the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, and the outer edge extends from the left side of the center part of the front of the clothing article; a first checkered reinforced knitted area, which extends between the S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the left side of the center part of the front of the clothing article and the second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted fabric in the front of the clothing article; a second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, which extends from the right edge of the front of the clothing article to the outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, and the outer edge extends from the right side of the center part of the front of the clothing article; and / or a second checkered reinforced knitted area, which extends between the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the right side of the center part of the front of the clothing article and the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area in the front of the clothing article.

[0118] Return to reference Figure 3 The boxer pants 50 further include: a second Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area 70, which extends from the left edge of the front of the boxer pants 50 to the outer edge of the first S-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area 64 extending from the left side of the front of the boxer pants 50, and the outer edge extends from the left side of the center part of the front of the boxer pants 50; a first plaid reinforced knitted area 72, which is between the first S-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area 64 extending from the left side of the center part of the front of the boxer pants 50 and the second Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area in the front of the boxer pants 50. knitted area 70; a second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 68, which extends from the right edge of the front of the boxer pants 50 to the outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 66, and the outer edge extends from the right side of the center part of the front of the boxer pants 50; and a second plaid reinforced knitted area 74, which extends between the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 66 extending from the right side of the center part of the front of the boxer pants 50 and the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 68 within the front of the boxer pants 50.

[0119] In some embodiments, the second Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area extends longitudinally from the middle position between the waistband and the first bottom end of the garment article to the first bottom end of the garment article. In other embodiments, the second S-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area also extends longitudinally from the middle position between the waistband and the second bottom end of the garment article to the second bottom end of the garment article.

[0120] Still refer to Figure 3The second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 70 extends longitudinally from the middle position between the waistband 52 and the first bottom end 56 of the boxer pants 50 to the first bottom end 56; and the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 68 also extends longitudinally from the middle position between the waistband 52 and the second bottom end 58 of the boxer pants 50 to the second bottom end 58.

[0121] The back of the underpants may include one or more oblique reinforced knitted areas. According to an exemplary embodiment, Figure 4 The boxer pants 50 also include: a third Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 76 extending from the left edge of the rear portion 60; and a third S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 78 extending along the right edge of the rear portion 60 of the boxer pants 50.

[0122] Similarly, refer to Figure 6 The high-waisted briefs 90 include: a Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 104 extending from the left edge of the rear portion 102; and an S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area 106 extending along the right edge of the rear portion of the briefs 90.

[0123] In some embodiments, the rear oblique reinforced knitted area extends longitudinally from the waistband to the bottom end (e.g. Figure 5 In other embodiments, the rear oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the bottom end toward the middle portion between the waistband and the bottom end (as shown in FIG. Figure 4 shown).

[0124] According to some examples, the front oblique reinforced knitted area can be connected to the rear oblique reinforced knitted area to form a V-shaped pattern. It has been found that such a V-shaped pattern on both sides of the underpants provides the desired aesthetic properties and an increased smooth profile. In addition, the V-shaped pattern and the triangular shape (the apex of the triangle is located at the edge between the front and back of the underpants) provide additional rigidity to the sides, thereby reducing the underpants from lifting up in the side when worn by the wearer.

[0125] The front portion of the underpants may include one or more areas made of a base knitted fabric. See, for example, Figure 3 , the front portion of the boxer pants 50 includes a first front basic zone 80, which extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband 52 of the boxer pants 50 and the first bottom end 56 of the front portion to the waistband 52, and extends transversely from the left side of the boxer pants 50 toward the center portion of the front portion of the boxer pants 50. Similarly, the boxer pants 50 includes a second front basic zone 82, which extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband 52 and the second bottom end 58 of the boxer pants 50 to the waistband 52, and extends transversely from the right side of the front portion of the boxer pants 50 toward the center portion of the front portion of the boxer pants 50.

[0126] In other embodiments, the underpants include a front portion having a single area made of a base knit fabric. Figure 5As shown, the briefs 90 include a front chassis region 100 that extends longitudinally from the waistband 92 to the bottom end of the briefs 90.

[0127] As shown in the figure, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The underwear is boxer briefs (or shorts), Figure 5 and Figure 6 The underpants are high waist briefs. It is understandable that other types of underpants or underwear can also be imagined, including but not limited to bikini underpants, hip-wrapped pants, shorts, etc.

[0128] In some embodiments, the underpants further include a support band at the rear thereof to provide hip support and lift. The support band is configured to conform to the contour of the underside of the wearer's hips.

[0129] In one aspect, there is also provided an article of apparel comprising one or more regions having a transparent or translucent appearance.

[0130] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first breast area 14, the second breast area 16, the first shoulder strap area 20, the second shoulder strap area 22 and the upper back area may have a transparent or translucent appearance. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The front base regions 80 and 82 and the rear portion 60 may have a transparent or translucent appearance. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the briefs, the front portion 100 and the back portion 102 may have a transparent or translucent appearance. The waistband may similarly have a transparent or translucent appearance. In some embodiments, the article of clothing is a fitness garment such as tights and has transparent or translucent portions. For example, the article of clothing may further include a reinforced knitted area configured to provide localized compression where desired.

[0131] In some embodiments, the waistband comprises UHMWPE fibers. In other embodiments, the waistband does not contain UHMWPE fibers.

[0132] In one embodiment, at least one base knit region has a lower apparent denier than the apparent denier of the reinforcement knit region.

[0133] For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 1 to about 60. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 1 to about 50. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 5 to about 60. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 10 to about 60. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 10 to about 50. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 15 to about 45. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 15 to about 40. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 15 to about 35. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 15 to about 30. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 20 to about 45. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier from about 20 to about 40. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of from about 20 to about 35. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of from about 20 to about 30. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of from about 25 to about 45. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of from about 25 to about 40. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of from about 25 to about 35. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 5. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 10. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 15. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 20. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 25. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 30. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 35. For example, at least one basic knitted area has an apparent denier of about 40. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 45. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 50. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 55. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 60. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 65. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 70. For example, at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of about 75.

[0134] For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 300. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 250. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 200. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 150. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 140. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 130. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 120. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 120. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 110. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 100. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 70 to about 110. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 75 to about 105. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 80 to about 100. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 60. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 70. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 80. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 90. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 100. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 110. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 120. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 130. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 140. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 150. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 160. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 170. For example, at least one reinforced knitted area has an apparent denier of about 180. For example, at least one reinforced knit region has an apparent denier of about 190. For example, at least one reinforced knit region has an apparent denier of about 200.

[0135] In one embodiment, the elasticity of at least one basic knitted area is greater than the elasticity of at least one reinforced knitted area.

[0136] In one embodiment, the UHMWPE fiber comprises a plurality of UHMWPE microfilaments.

[0137] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE microfilaments are untwisted. In other embodiments, the UHMWPE microfilaments are twisted together, optionally with a twist per inch (TPI) of 1 to 30, 4 to 25, 6 to 20, or 8 to 16, or any number therebetween.

[0138] In one embodiment, the base knitted fabric and / or the reinforcement knitted fabric further comprises one or more companion fibers.

[0139] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers of the present invention may be prepared according to the methods described, for example, in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20222256620, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0140] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have high impact strength, low density, low elongation at break, resistance to corrosive chemicals, low moisture absorption, and / or a low coefficient of friction. In other embodiments, the material is self-lubricating and / or highly wear and odor resistant.

[0141] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a weight average molecular weight (M) of at least about 200,000. w In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a weight average molecular weight (M) ranging from about 300,000 to about 7,000,000, about 700,000 to about 5,000,000, or about 900,000 to about 4,000,000. w ). The molecular weight distribution of UHMWPE fiber, that is, the weight average molecular weight (M w ) and number average molecular weight (M n ) is about 5.0 or less, about 4.0 or less, or about 3.0 or less.

[0142] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises a monofilament. In some other embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises a plurality of microfilaments. In some embodiments, each microfilament in the UHMWPE has a denier of about 5 or less, about 4 or less, about 3 or less, about 2.5 or less, about 2 or less, about 1.5 or less, about 1 or less, or about 0.5 or less.

[0143] The UHMWPE fiber may include any suitable number of microfilaments. In certain embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises 2 to 400 microfilaments, 10 to 300 microfilaments, or 20 to 200 microfilaments. In certain embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises 10 to 50 microfilaments. In certain embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises 5 to 50 microfilaments. In certain embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises 5 to 25 microfilaments. In certain embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber comprises 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or 50 microfilaments or any number therebetween.

[0144] The UHMWPE fibers can be of any suitable denier. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a denier of about 5 to about 150. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a denier of about 10 to about 60. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a denier of about 10, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 40, about 50, about 60, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 100, about 110, about 120, about 125, about 130, about 140, about 150. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a denier of 50 or less.

[0145] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber is a high-strength fiber. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a tensile strength (i.e., toughness) of at least 20 cN / dtex, at least 25 cN / dtex, at least about 30 cN / dtex, at least about 35 cN / dtex, at least about 40 cN / dtex, at least about 45 cN / dtex, at least about 50 cN / dtex, at least about 55 cN / dtex, or at least about 60 cN / dtex. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a tensile strength of about 26 cN / dtex, about 28 cN / dtex, about 30 cN / dtex, about 32 cN / dtex, about 36 cN / dtex, about 40 cN / dtex, about 45 cN / dtex, or about 50 cN / dtex.

[0146] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a modulus of about 1000 cN / dtex or more, about 1100 cN / dtex or more, about 1200 cN / dtex or more, about 1300 cN / dtex or more, about 1400 cN / dtex or more, about 1500 cN / dtex or more, about 1600 cN / dtex or more. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a modulus of about 1400 cN / dtex, about 1420 cN / dtex, about 1450 cN / dtex, about 1500 cN / dtex, or about 1360 cN / dtex.

[0147] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers allow an elongation of no greater than about 10%, no greater than about 8%, no greater than about 5%, no greater than about 4%, no greater than about 3.5%, no greater than about 3%, no greater than about 2.5%, no greater than about 2%, or no greater than about 1.5%.

[0148] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a breaking force of about 10 N or greater, about 11 N or greater, about 12 N or greater, about 13 N or greater, about 14 N or greater, about 15 N or greater, about 16 N or greater, about 18 N or greater, or about 20 N or greater.

[0149] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a work of rupture of at least about 100 N·mm, at least about 110 N·mm, at least about 120 N·mm, at least about 130 N·mm, at least about 140 N·mm, at least about 150 N·mm, at least about 160 N·mm, or at least about 170 N·mm.

[0150] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber is a colored UHMWPE fiber comprising a dye. In some embodiments, the dye has a color selected from black, blue, gray, red, blue, brown, yellow, green, orange, and nude.

[0151] In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers comprise a plurality of filaments that are not twisted together (ie, untwisted filaments).

[0152] In some other embodiments, in order to keep the filaments together and increase strength and reduce pilling, the UHMWPE fiber is twisted. In order to maintain strength, the twist per inch (TPI) should not be too high. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a twist per inch (TPI) of 1 to 30, 4 to 25, 6 to 20 or 8 to 16. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 1. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 2. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 3. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 4. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 5. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 6. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 8. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 10. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 12. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 15. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a TPI of 16. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a TPI of 18. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a TPI of 20. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a TPI of 25. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a TPI of 30.

[0153] In various aspects, the UHMWPE fibers described herein may be prepared according to the methods described in U.S. Publication No. US20220056620, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0154] The apparel articles of the present invention possess desirable properties including softness, hydrophobicity, surface lubricity, abrasion resistance, tear resistance, improved drape, pilling resistance, and anti-microbial properties.

[0155] The knitted fabric of the present invention has improved cut resistance and abrasion resistance, and provides a cooling effect to the wearer.

[0156] In some embodiments, the knitted fabric includes UHMWPE fibers, stretched fibers, and companion fibers. Unless otherwise specified, "knitted" referred to herein includes one or more of at least one basic knitted area and / or one or more of at least one reinforced knitted area.

[0157] In one embodiment, the stretch fibers include, but are not limited to, spandex, polypropylene, polyamide, polyurethane, polyolefin, and polyester fibers and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the stretch fibers have an elongation of about 130% or greater, about 200% or greater, about 300% or greater, or about 400% or greater.

[0158] The UHMWPE fiber can be any UHMWPE fiber described herein. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber includes multiple microfilaments, each of which has 5 or less deniers. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber is a colored fiber comprising a dye. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a color that varies along the length of the UHMWPE fiber. In some embodiments, the color variation along the length of the UHMWPE fiber is less than ± 2.5%, less than ± 3%, less than ± 3.5%, less than ± 4%, less than ± 5%, less than ± 6%, less than ± 7%, less than ± 8%, less than ± 9% or less than ± 10%.

[0159] The use of UHMWPE fibers provides benefits for knitting, such as cooling effect, light weight, moisture wicking and antibacterial. The antibacterial and moisture wicking properties are derived from the fact that UHMWPE is hydrophobic. The good tensile properties of UHMWPE fibers also resist tearing, abrasion or knitting breaks of knitted fabrics. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a denier that varies along the length of the UHMWPE fibers. In some embodiments, the denier variation along the length of the UHMWPE fibers is less than ±2.5%, less than ±3%, less than ±3.5%, less than ±4%, less than ±5%, less than ±6%, less than ±7%, less than ±8%, less than ±9% or less than ±10%. In some embodiments, the diameter of the UHMWPE fibers along the length of the UHMWPE fibers varies less than ±2.5%, less than ±3%, less than ±3.5%, less than ±4%, less than ±5%, less than ±6%, less than ±7%, less than ±8%, less than ±9% or less than ±10%. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fibers have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to a circle. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to an oval. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to a stadium. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a cross-sectional shape that is substantially similar to an ellipse. In some embodiments, the UHMWPE fiber has a cross-sectional shape that remains substantially constant along the fiber length.

[0160] The amount of UHMWPE fibers in the knitted fabric may be in the range of about 10% by weight to about 90% by weight based on the total amount of fibers in the knitted fabric. In some embodiments, the amount of UHMWPE fibers in the knitted fabric is in the range of about 15% by weight to about 80% by weight, about 20% by weight to about 80% by weight, about 30% by weight to about 70% by weight, or about 40% by weight to about 60% by weight. A higher UHMWPE fiber content means a more durable final product with higher antimicrobial properties.

[0161] In some embodiments, the knitted fabric includes a plurality of UHMWPE fibers. Each of the UHMWPE fibers includes a plurality of microfilaments, each of the microfilaments having a denier of 5 or less. Each of the UHMWPE fibers may contain 50 or less microfilaments.

[0162] The companion fiber is selected to enhance the properties of the knitted fabric, such as, but not limited to, the comfort, durability, dyeability / printability, and / or stretchability of the knitted fabric. In some embodiments, the companion fiber comprises a single fiber. In some other embodiments, the companion fiber comprises a plurality of fibers.

[0163] The companion fiber may be a synthetic fiber, a natural fiber, a stretch fiber, a non-stretch fiber, a high performance fiber, an elastomeric fiber, a thermoplastic fiber, an abrasion resistant fiber, or a memory fiber.

[0164] In some embodiments, the companion fiber comprises a synthetic fiber. Non-limiting examples of organic synthetic fibers include fibers made from polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, high molecular weight polypropylene, polybutylene, and the like; polyamides such as nylon; polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene succinate, polymethyl methacrylate; 1,2-polybutadiene; acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers; polystyrene; and copolymers of these polymers.

[0165] In some embodiments, the companion fibers include natural fibers. Examples of natural fibers include cotton, silk, wool, and similar fibers.

[0166] In some embodiments, the companion fiber comprises a draw fiber.Examples of draw fibers include fibers made from polyurethane, polyolefins (eg, low molecular weight polyethylene, polyamide, or polypropylene), and the like.

[0167] In some embodiments, the companion fibers include non-stretch fibers, which as used herein refers to a class of fibers that are substantially inelastic and have little or no elongation. Examples of non-stretch fibers include fibers made from polyester, cotton, nylon, rayon, and wool.

[0168] In some embodiments, the companion fiber comprises a high performance fiber. Examples of high performance fibers include high molecular weight polypropylene, aromatic polyamide, high molecular weight polyvinyl alcohol, high molecular weight polyacrylonitrile, and liquid crystal polyester.

[0169] In some embodiments, the companion fiber comprises an elastomeric fiber, which as used herein refers to a fiber having an elongation at break exceeding 100% and which quickly and forcibly retracts to substantially its original length when stretched and released. Examples of elastomeric fibers include spandex (also known as elastic fiber), lastol, polyurethane, and polyetherester.

[0170] In some embodiments, the companion fibers include thermoplastic fibers, which as used herein refers to a class of fibers obtained from polymers that are plastic or deformable, melt into a liquid when heated and freeze into a brittle glass state when sufficiently cooled. Examples of thermoplastic fibers include fibers made from polyamides, polyimides, polyurethanes, polyolefins, polystyrenes, aromatic polyesters, polycarbonates, polyketones, polyureas, polyvinyl resins, polyacrylates, and polymethacrylates.

[0171] In some embodiments, the companion fibers include wear-resistant fibers, which as used herein refers to a type of fiber that inhibits or reduces wear of the material to which it is adjacent. Examples of wear-resistant fibers include fibers made from nylon, polyester, and polyamide.

[0172] In some embodiments, the companion fibers include memory fibers, which as used herein refer to a class of fibers that have the ability to return to some previously defined shape or size when subjected to an appropriate thermal stimulus. Examples of memory fibers include fibers made from polynorbornene, styrene-butadiene copolymers, polyurethanes, and trans-polyisoprene.

[0173] In some embodiments, the companion fiber is a composite fiber formed by coating a first fiber with a second fiber. In some embodiments, the composite fiber is formed by coating a monofilament spandex fiber with a multifilament nylon fiber. In some embodiments, the first fiber and the second fiber are twisted together.

[0174] The companion fiber can include any suitable number of microfilaments. In some embodiments, the companion fiber contains 2 to 400 microfilaments, 10 to 300 microfilaments, 10 to 200 microfilaments, 10 to 150 microfilaments, 10 to 100 microfilaments, 10 to 50 microfilaments, 5 to 50 microfilaments, or 20 to 200 microfilaments.

[0175] The companion fiber can be any suitable denier. In some embodiments, the companion fiber has a denier in the range of about 2 to about 100, about 5 to about 100, about 10 to about 100, or about 15 to about 100. In some embodiments, the companion fiber has a denier of about 5, about 10, about 13, about 15, about 17, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 50, about 60, about 70, about 80, or about 90. In the case where the knitted fabric contains multiple companion fibers, the multiple companion fibers can have the same or different deniers from each other.

[0176] In some embodiments, the companion fibers allow for an elongation of greater than 100%. In some embodiments, the companion fibers have an elongation of about 130% or greater, about 200% or greater, about 300% or greater, or about 400% or greater.

[0177] In some embodiments, the companion fiber is a colored fiber comprising a dye. In some embodiments, the companion fiber has a black, blue, gray, red, blue, brown, yellow, green, orange, or nude color. In some embodiments, the companion fiber is white. In some embodiments, the companion fiber has the same color as the UHMWPE fiber. In some other embodiments, the companion fiber has a different color than the UHMWPE fiber.

[0178] The knitted fabric has high dimensional stability. In some embodiments, the dimensional stability of the knitted fabric in each of the length direction and the width direction is about ±6%, about ±4%, about ±2%, about ±1%, or about ±0.5%.

[0179] The knitted fabric is substantially hydrophobic. In certain embodiments, the knitted fabric has a contact angle with water in the range of about 45 to about 135 degrees when measured in air. In certain embodiments, the knitted fabric has a contact angle with water greater than about 45 degrees, greater than about 50 degrees, greater than about 60 degrees, greater than about 80 degrees, greater than about 90 degrees, greater than about 100 degrees, greater than about 110 degrees, greater than about 120 degrees, greater than about 125 degrees, or greater than about 130 degrees. In certain embodiments, the knitted fabric has a contact angle with water of about 120 degrees.

[0180] The knitted fabric is biologically inert and therefore does not stimulate unwanted growth nor is it susceptible to any attack by microorganisms. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial resistance provided by the knitted fabric is reduced by about 25% to about 100% compared to a knitted fabric composed of cotton. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial resistance provided by the knitted fabric is reduced by about 25% to about 75% compared to a knitted fabric composed of cotton. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial resistance provided by the knitted fabric is reduced by about 25% to about 50% compared to a knitted fabric composed of cotton. In some embodiments, when a knitted fabric composed of cotton is included, the antimicrobial resistance provided by the knitted fabric is reduced by at least 50%.

[0181] The knitted fabric also has good anti-odor properties and does not substantially absorb odor or body odor.

[0182] The knitted fabric has an apparent denier of about 150 or less, about 120 or less, about 100 or less, about 80 or less, about 60 or less, about 50 or less, about 40 or less, or about 30 or less.

[0183] The knitted fabric of the present invention can be manufactured using a knitting machine such as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20222256620, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0184] In some embodiments, knitted fabrics are made using UHMWPE fibers and nylon-coated spandex fibers as companion fibers. Both the UHMWPE fibers and the companion fibers can be textured or flat. In some embodiments, the denier of nylon is 1 to 20. In some embodiments, the denier of nylon is 5 to 20. In some embodiments, nylon is a multifilament fiber comprising 5 to 16 microfilaments. In some embodiments, the nylon-coated spandex fiber is formed by coating a monofilament spandex fiber with 17 deniers with a nylon fiber containing 5 to 20 microfilaments and having 1 to 20 deniers, and in some embodiments, the knitted fabric has a weft path alternating between the UHMWPE fiber and the nylon-coated spandex fiber, wherein the spandex fiber is a monofilament fiber with 40 deniers, and the nylon fiber is a multifilament fiber containing 7 microfilaments and having 20 deniers. In some embodiments, the apparent denier of the knitted fabric obtained is 15 to 60. In some embodiments, the apparent denier of the knitted fabric obtained is about 40.

[0185] In some embodiments, the knitted fabric is made of UHMWPE fiber and nylon fiber. The nylon fiber is a multifilament fiber containing 40 microfilaments and having a denier of 40.

[0186] Although the above description provides examples of embodiments, it will be understood that some features and / or functions of the embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and operating principles of the embodiments. Therefore, the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and those skilled in the art will understand that other variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A clothing product, comprising: at least one basic knitted area, each of the at least one basic knitted area being formed of a basic knitted fabric, the basic knitted fabric comprising ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers and at least one basic stretched fiber, the UHMWPE fibers and the at least one basic stretched fiber being knitted together in a plated structure to form a plain knitted fabric; and at least one reinforced knitted area, each of the at least one reinforced knitted area being formed of a reinforced knitted fabric comprising UHMWPE fibers and at least one basic stretch fiber, the UHMWPE fibers and the at least one basic stretch fiber being knitted together in a plated structure to form a plain knitted fabric, Wherein, the reinforced knitted area also includes reinforcing stretch fibers knitted alternately with the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, wherein within each given weft path of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, for each sequence of m+n consecutive coils of the weft path, the reinforcing stretch fibers are looped with the m consecutive coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric, and the n consecutive coils of the plain knitted fabric of the reinforced knitted fabric after the m consecutive coils are not looped with the reinforcing stretch fibers.

2. The article of clothing according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one basic knitted area and the at least one reinforcement knitted area are integrally formed by a continuous knitting operation.

3. The clothing article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: m is equal to or greater than 1, and n is equal to or greater than 1.

4. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area includes at least one vertical reinforced knitted area, and the sequence of m+n consecutive coils in any given weft path of the at least one vertical reinforced knitted area is aligned with the sequence of m+n consecutive coils in any other weft path of the at least one vertical reinforced knitted area.

5. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area includes at least one oblique reinforced knitted area; as well as For at least one group of two adjacent weft paths of the at least one diagonal reinforced knitting area, the sequence of the m+n consecutive coils of the first weft path of the at least one group of two adjacent weft paths is offset relative to the sequence of the m+n consecutive coils of the second weft path of the at least one group of two adjacent weft paths.

6. The article of clothing according to claim 5, wherein: The at least one oblique reinforced knitted area includes an S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area; The oblique reinforced knitted area in the S direction includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of the first weft path and the second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths offset; as well as The offset of the sequence of consecutive stitches of the m+n weft paths of the first weft path and the second weft path of each of the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths is offset in the same leftward direction.

7. The article of clothing according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The at least one oblique reinforced knitted area includes an oblique reinforced knitted area in the Z direction; The Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area includes a plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths, wherein the plurality of groups of two adjacent weft paths have an offset of a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of the first weft path and the second weft path in the two adjacent weft paths; as well as The offset of the sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of the first weft path and the second weft path of each of the plurality of groups of two immediately adjacent weft paths is offset in the same rightward direction.

8. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area comprises at least one checkered reinforced knitted area; For at least one first group of two adjacent weft paths of the at least one diagonal reinforced knitted area, a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a first weft path of the at least one first group of two adjacent weft paths is offset in a first direction relative to a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of a second weft path of the at least one first group of two adjacent weft paths; as well as For two adjacent weft paths of at least one second group of the at least one diagonal reinforced knitting area, the sequence of m+n consecutive coils of the first weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the at least one second group is offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the sequence of m+n consecutive coils of the second weft path of the two adjacent weft paths of the at least one second group.

9. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising at least one pinched area having pinched stitches.

10. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The elasticity of the at least one basic knitted area is greater than the elasticity of the at least one reinforcing knitted area.

11. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The UHMWPE fiber comprises a plurality of UHMWPE microfilaments.

12. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The article of clothing is a breast support garment including an underband; The at least one basic knitted area comprises: first breast area; Second breast area; Upper back area; a first shoulder strap region extending from an upper edge of the first breast region to the upper back region; and a second shoulder strap region extending from an upper edge of the second breast region to the upper back region; and The at least one reinforced knitted area comprises: a first breast enhancement area, the first breast enhancement area extending from a lower edge of the first breast area to an upper edge of the bottom circumference; a second breast enhancement area extending from a lower edge of the second breast area to an upper edge of the underband; and A central reinforcement area is defined between the first breast area and the second breast area and extends downwardly to the upper edge of the bottom circumference.

13. The article of clothing according to claim 12, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area further includes a back reinforcement area extending from a lower edge of the upper back area to the upper edge of the underband.

14. The article of clothing according to claim 13, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises: a first lateral reinforcement zone extending between the first breast reinforcement zone and the back reinforcement zone and extending longitudinally between a lower edge defining a first arm hole of the article of clothing and the upper edge of the bottom band; and A second lateral reinforcement zone extends between the second breast reinforcement zone and the back reinforcement zone and extends longitudinally between a lower edge defining a second arm hole of the article of garment and the upper edge of the underband.

15. The article of clothing according to claim 14, wherein: The first breast reinforcement area, the second breast reinforcement area, the central breast reinforcement area, the back reinforcement area, the first lateral reinforcement area, and the second lateral reinforcement area form a single continuous reinforcement area.

16. The article of clothing according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: Each of the reinforcement zones is a vertical reinforcement knit zone, and a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any given weft of the vertical reinforcement knit zone is aligned with a sequence of m+n consecutive stitches of any other weft of the vertical reinforcement knit zone.

17. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein: A support band for providing breast support is formed on the at least one reinforced knitted area.

18. The article of clothing according to claim 17, wherein: The support belt is a single continuous support belt.

19. The article of clothing according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The support band is configured to conform to the contours of the underside of a wearer's breast.

20. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein: The support band is W-shaped, extending from the first lateral reinforcement area through the first breast reinforcement area, upward to the central reinforcement area, and extending through the second breast reinforcement area and reaching the second lateral reinforcement area.

21. The article of clothing according to claim 20, wherein: The first end and the second end of the support belt extend upward toward lower edges defining the first arm hole and the second arm hole, respectively.

22. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein: The support belt is formed by a rope.

23. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein: The breast support garment is a bra.

24. The article of clothing according to claim 23, wherein: The bra is a bra without underwire or a I-shaped vest type bra.

25. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein: The breast support garment is a strapless bra.

26. The article of clothing according to claim 25, wherein: The strapless bra is a low waist bra.

27. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The article of clothing is a drawstring, the drawstring comprising a waistband, a gusset, a first bottom end and a second bottom end, the first bottom end and the second bottom end defining a first leg hole and a second leg hole, respectively; and The at least one base knitted area comprises a rear region of a rear portion of the article of clothing.

28. The article of clothing according to claim 27, wherein: The rear region extends from a left side to a right side of the rear portion of the article of clothing and from the waistband.

29. The article of clothing according to claim 27 or 28, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area comprises: a vertical reinforcement zone extending over a central sub-portion of a front portion of the article of clothing; A first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, wherein the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the left side of the vertical reinforced area; and / or A first Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area, wherein the first Z-direction obliquely reinforced knitted area extends from the right side of the vertically reinforced area.

30. The article of clothing according to claim 27 or 28, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area comprises: A first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the right side of the central part of the front of the clothing article toward the back of the clothing article, or extending from the left side of the central part of the front of the clothing article toward the back of the clothing article; and / or A first Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extends from a left side of the central portion of the front of the article of clothing or from a right side of the central portion of the front of the article of clothing toward the back of the article of clothing.

31. The article of clothing according to claim 29 or 30, wherein: One or more of the reinforced knitted areas extend longitudinally from the waistband to the first bottom end or the second bottom end of the article of clothing.

32. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein: The vertical reinforcement zone extends from the waistband to the gusset.

33. An article of clothing according to any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein: The first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the waistband of the clothing article to the first bottom end or the second bottom end.

34. An article of clothing according to any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein: The first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extends from the waistband to the first bottom end or the second bottom end of the clothing article.

35. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises: a second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from a left edge of the front portion of the garment article to an outer edge of the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the outer edge of the first S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from a left side of the central portion of the front portion of the garment article; a first checkered reinforced knitted area extending between the S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from the left side of the central portion of the front portion of the article of clothing and the second Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area within the front portion of the article of clothing; a second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from a right edge of the front portion of the clothing article to an outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the outer edge of the first Z-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending from a right side of the central portion of the front portion of the clothing article; and / or A second check reinforced knitted area extends between the first Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the right side of the central portion of the front of the article of clothing and the second S-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area within the front of the article of clothing.

36. The article of clothing according to claim 35, wherein: The second Z-directional oblique reinforced knitted area extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband and the first bottom end of the article of clothing to the first bottom end of the article of clothing.

37. The article of clothing according to claim 35 or 36, wherein: The second S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area also extends longitudinally from a middle position between the waistband and the second bottom end of the clothing article to the second bottom end of the clothing article.

38. An article of clothing according to any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein: The at least one reinforced knitted area further comprises: a third Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area, the third Z-direction diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from a left edge of the rear portion of the article of clothing; and / or A third S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area, the third S-direction oblique reinforced knitted area extending along the right edge of the rear portion of the clothing article.

39. The article of clothing according to claim 38, wherein: The third S-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the right edge of the rear portion of the clothing article and the second Z-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the left edge of the front portion of the clothing article are linked together to form a first V-shaped pattern.

40. The article of clothing according to claim 38 or 39, wherein: The third Z-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the left edge of the rear portion of the clothing article and the second S-directional diagonal reinforced knitted area extending from the right edge of the front portion of the clothing article are linked together to form a second V-shaped pattern.

41. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 27 to 40, wherein: The at least one basic knitted area also includes a front region.

42. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 27 to 40, wherein: The at least one basic knitted area also includes a first front basic area, which extends longitudinally from an intermediate position between the waistband of the clothing article and the first bottom end of the front portion to the waistband, and optionally extends laterally from the left side of the clothing article toward the central part of the front portion of the clothing article.

43. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 27 to 41, wherein: The at least one basic knitted area also includes a second front basic area, which extends longitudinally from an intermediate position between the waistband and the second bottom end of the clothing article to the waistband, and optionally extends laterally from the right side of the front part of the clothing article toward the central part of the front part of the clothing article.

44. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 27 to 43, wherein: The underpants are briefs, and can be optionally low-waist briefs or high-waist briefs.

45. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 27 to 43, wherein: The underpants are boxer pants.

46. ​​The article of clothing according to any one of claims 12 to 45, wherein: The waistband does not contain UHMWPE.

47. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 46, wherein: The at least one base knit region has an apparent denier of 40 or less, an apparent denier of 30 or less, or an apparent denier of 20 or less.

48. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 47, wherein: The at least one reinforced knit area has an apparent denier of about 60 to about 120, an apparent denier of about 70 to about 110, or an apparent denier of about 80 to about 100.

49. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 48, wherein: The stretch fibers include spandex, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyolefin and polyester fibers and combinations thereof.

50. The article of clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 49, wherein: The base knitted fabric and / or the reinforcement knitted fabric further comprises one or more accompanying fibers.

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