Fabric configured to facilitate cooling

Abstract

Aspects herein relate to a knitted spacer fabric (100) including a first knitted layer (110) formed from a first plurality of yarns or fibers. The first knitted layer (110) includes a first set of apertures (116), each aperture (116a) having a first opening size (118). The fabric (100) further includes a second knitted layer (112) formed from a second plurality of yarns or fibers. The second knitted layer (112) includes a second set of apertures (120). Each aperture (120a) of the second set of apertures (120) is axially aligned with a corresponding aperture (116a) of the first set of apertures (116). Each aperture (120a) of the second set of apertures (120) has a second opening size (122) that is smaller than the first opening size of the aperture (116a) of the first set of apertures (116). The first knitted layer (110) can be relatively more hydrophilic than the second knitted layer (112).

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Typical athletic garments are made from fabrics that are quick-drying and / or promote airflow through the garment and help cool the wearer. However, traditional characteristics of typical fabrics used in athletic garments may not provide adequate cooling under certain environmental conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0002] Examples of various aspects of this article are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0003] Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of an example knitted spacer fabric according to various aspects of this article is shown;

[0004] Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of a second example fabric according to various aspects of this article is shown;

[0005] Figure 1C A schematic cross-sectional view of a third example fabric according to various aspects of this article is shown;

[0006] Figure 2 Examples are given based on various aspects of this article. Figure 1A The first surface formed by the first knitted layer of the knitted spacer fabric;

[0007] Figure 3 Examples are given based on various aspects of this article. Figure 1A The second surface is formed by the second knitted layer of the knitted spacer fabric;

[0008] Figure 4 Examples are given based on various aspects of this article. Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the knitted spacer fabric located adjacent to the wearer's skin surface;

[0009] Figure 5 Examples of upper garments formed from the fabrics described herein are illustrated according to various aspects of this article;

[0010] Figure 6 Examples of lower garments formed from the fabrics described herein are illustrated according to various aspects of this article;

[0011] Figure 7 Examples of upper garments formed from the fabrics described herein are illustrated according to various aspects of this article;

[0012] Figure 8 Examples of upper garments are shown, partly made of the fabrics described herein and partly made of another fabric, according to various aspects of this article;

[0013] Figure 9Examples of lower garments formed from the fabrics described herein are illustrated according to various aspects of this article;

[0014] Figure 10 Examples of lower garments are shown, partly made of the fabric described herein and partly made of another fabric, according to various aspects of this article;

[0015] Figure 11 Examples of manufacturing based on various aspects of this article are provided. Figure 1A A flowchart of an example method for knitting spaced fabrics;

[0016] Figure 12 Examples of upper garments formed from the fabrics described herein and including one or more stress-relief zones are illustrated according to various aspects of this document;

[0017] Figure 13 Examples are given regarding the lifting of the arm, based on various aspects of this article. Figure 12 Upper body clothing;

[0018] Figure 14 Examples are given based on various aspects of this article. Figure 12 A side view of the upper body clothing;

[0019] Figure 15 Another example of an upper garment is illustrated, formed from the fabric described herein and including one or more stress-relief zones, according to various aspects thereof, wherein a second fabric piece is fixed in the opening of one or more stress-relief zones;

[0020] Figure 16 A top cross-sectional view of another example knitted spacer fabric is shown, according to various aspects of this article. Detailed Implementation

[0021] This article relates to a fabric, garments formed from the fabric, and methods of manufacturing the fabric, wherein the fabric includes features that help improve cooling when worn by a wearer in various environments.

[0022] Traditional fabrics, especially those used in high-performance clothing, often suffer from poor air circulation and cooling, particularly when exposed to moisture such as sweat, rain, or other liquids. When these fabrics get wet, the fibers can swell, and water (or other liquids) can clog the tiny openings formed by the knitted loops, significantly reducing breathability. Furthermore, due to insufficient structural stiffness or excessive drape, the fabric may cling to the skin, further hindering airflow and causing discomfort.

[0023] To address the shortcomings of conventional fabrics, the aspects disclosed herein provide a fabric (such as a knitted spaced fabric) comprising holes extending continuously from a front surface to a second surface. These holes are integrally formed during the knitting process and are orders of magnitude larger than the tiny gaps typically formed between loops in conventional knitted structures. Therefore, even when the yarn swells due to moisture absorption or when moisture is retained on the fabric surface, air can still flow freely through the larger, uninterrupted holes. Additionally, the fabric can be engineered to have controlled stiffness and drape, which reduces cling to the wearer's skin, thereby enhancing airflow and overall breathability.

[0024] As used herein, the term "hole" differs from the tiny gaps or crevices that naturally occur between yarns at the loop intersections of conventional knitted structures (i.e., between adjacent rows and warps). While such gaps may allow limited airflow, especially when dry, they are typically small and easily clogged when the fabric becomes wet or the yarns swell. In contrast, the holes described herein are discrete, intentionally formed structures that extend continuously from one surface of the fabric to another. These holes are much larger in size and are not merely incidental to the geometry of the knitted loops; rather, they are intentionally integrated into the fabric to maintain airflow and breathability even under wet conditions.

[0025] This structural configuration supports multiple forms of cooling depending on environmental conditions. For example, when the ambient temperature is lower than the wearer's body temperature, the continuous perforations promote convective cooling by allowing ambient air to flow more freely towards the skin. Conversely, when the ambient temperature is higher than the wearer's body temperature, the airflow through the perforations can still contribute to evaporative cooling, as moisture retained on or within the fabric evaporates and lowers the local temperature of the airflow. In all cases, the enhanced airflow enabled by the larger perforations, combined with the anti-clamping properties provided by the fabric's stiffness, delivers improved evaporative cooling and thermal comfort for the wearer.

[0026] In certain use cases, such as when a person engaged in active exercise (e.g., running) wears the fabrics disclosed herein, the combination of the fabric's structural stiffness and its integrally formed, continuously extending pores may promote a pumping effect. Movement of the garment relative to the body may periodically compress and release localized areas of the fabric, thereby facilitating air exchange between the internal and external environments. This dynamic airflow further enhances convective and evaporative cooling by drawing in fresh air and expelling warm, humid air from within the garment.

[0027] Exemplarily, the fabric includes at least one layer defining a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface includes a first set of holes, and the second surface includes a second set of holes. Holes in the first set of holes may be referred to as first holes, and holes in the second set of holes may be referred to as second holes. Each first hole has a corresponding first cross-sectional area (or "first area"), and each second hole has a corresponding second cross-sectional area (or "second area"). Any second cross-sectional area is smaller than any first cross-sectional area.

[0028] The cross-sectional area can also be characterized by the corresponding opening size. Therefore, it can be assumed that each first hole has a corresponding first opening size, and each second hole has a corresponding second opening size, wherein any second opening size is smaller than any first opening size.

[0029] In some examples, all first areas may be substantially the same, while in other examples, at least two first areas may be different from each other. Similarly, in some examples, all second areas may be substantially the same, while in other examples, at least two second areas may be different from each other. All combinations between examples of first and second areas are possible.

[0030] In a particular example, the fabric may include a first section and a second section. A first hole in the first section may have a first common first area, and a first hole in the second section may have a second common first area, wherein the second common first area is larger than the first common first area. Additionally or alternatively, a second hole in the first section may have a first common second area, and a second hole in the second section may have a second common second area, wherein the second common second area is larger than the first common second area.

[0031] The first and second holes can be aligned (e.g., axially or laterally). In other words, each first hole can be aligned with its corresponding second hole. As used herein, lateral alignment refers to a spatial relationship in which the first hole and its corresponding second hole are in an overlapping position when viewed along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the first layer. That is, the holes are aligned in the plane of the layer (e.g., in the XY plane) such that a portion or all of each first hole overlaps with its corresponding second hole in the outward direction.

[0032] A hydrophobic gradient may exist between the first and second surfaces, with the direction of the gradient from the first surface to the second surface. The second surface may be more hydrophobic than the first surface, or in other words, the first surface may be more hydrophilic than the second surface.

[0033] At least one layer may be a knitted layer, a nonwoven layer, a woven layer, or a combination thereof.

[0034] At least one layer may include a single layer. Alternatively, at least one layer may include a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer includes a first surface and the second layer includes a second surface. The fabric may be a knitted spacer fabric, wherein the first layer is a first knitted layer and the second layer is a second knitted layer, and wherein the fabric further includes a plurality of connecting yarns that connect the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0035] In one example, the knitted spacer fabric can be a warp-knitted fabric. In one example, the warp-knitted fabric includes a tricot knitted spacer fabric. The warp-knitted fabric can have a machine direction and a cross-direction, which is perpendicular to the machine direction. These directions can affect the mechanical properties of the fabric (e.g., stretch, strength, drape, etc.).

[0036] In each example, the fabric is a knitted spacer fabric comprising a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns. The first knitted layer includes a first set of holes, each hole having a first opening size. The knitted spacer fabric also includes a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns. The second knitted layer includes a second set of holes. Each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes. In the example, each hole in the second set of holes has a second opening size smaller than the first opening size of the hole in the first set of holes. A plurality of connecting yarns connect the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0037] In other examples, the fabric may include a double-knitted fabric having a first knitted layer with a first set of holes, each hole having a first opening size. The double-knitted fabric also includes a second knitted layer with a second set of holes, each hole having a second opening size smaller than the first opening size. The second knitted layer is located adjacent to the first knitted layer such that the holes in the second set of holes are axially aligned with corresponding holes in the first set of holes.

[0038] For example, a double-knitted fabric may comprise two separate fabrics joined together at one or more locations to maintain axial alignment of the holes in the first and second knitted layers. For example, the first and second knitted layers may be glued or adhesively bonded together to form a composite fabric. In another example, the first and second knitted layers may be secured to each other using stitching or other types of fastening techniques. In a different example, the double-knitted fabric may comprise a double-knitted fabric having yarns that transfer back and forth between the first and second knitted layers to secure the two layers together.

[0039] Various aspects of this paper also envision using non-knitting techniques to form layers of fabric, particularly layers of double-layer fabric. For example, one or more of the first and second layers may comprise a nonwoven fabric formed from fibers having the desired properties described below. The first layer may include a first set of holes, each having a first opening size, and the second layer may include a second set of holes, each having a second opening size smaller than the first opening size. The first layer may be secured to the second layer in such a manner that the first and second sets of holes are axially aligned. When both the first and second layers comprise nonwoven fabrics, the layers may be secured by entanglement (e.g., needle-punched entanglement, hydroentanglement) and / or by using adhesives, heat, and pressure, etc.

[0040] Further aspects of this paper envision the use of woven fabrics having the characteristics described above with respect to holes (e.g., a first and second woven layer interwoven with each other or fixed using adhesives, bonding agents, etc.). In the examples, layers with different constructions (e.g., knitted, woven, or nonwoven) can be combined with each other (e.g., a combination of knitted and woven layers, a combination of nonwoven and knitted layers, a combination of nonwoven and woven layers, etc.).

[0041] Various aspects of this paper further envision the use of a single-layer fabric with relatively high absorbency, and the application of a finishing agent to one side of the fabric to impart hydrophobic properties. For example, the single-layer fabric may comprise a 100% cellulose fabric treated with a durable water-repellent finishing agent on one side or surface. In this example, the single-layer fabric may optionally include pores with a uniform diameter and / or pores with a funnel-shaped structure (i.e., tapering diameter) extending from the absorbent side of the fabric to the hydrophobic side.

[0042] When the fabric is incorporated into the garment, a first layer forms the outer surface, which includes the outermost surface of the garment, and a second layer forms the inner surface, which includes the innermost surface of the garment. Therefore, larger-sized holes are positioned on the outermost surface of the garment, and smaller-sized holes are positioned on the innermost surface. Because the first and second sets of holes are axially aligned, they form a funnel-shaped structure. Air flowing over the outermost surface of the garment can enter the first set of holes, and the airflow velocity may increase as it flows through the smaller-sized second set of holes. In a different sense, the size and configuration of the first and second sets of holes can produce a Venturi effect, which helps to increase the airflow velocity through the holes into the internal volume surrounded by the garment, thereby enhancing breathability and cooling.

[0043] In one example, the air velocity increases as it passes through the continuous openings formed by the first and second layers of the knitted spacer fabric. In another example, the air velocity through the continuous openings in the fabric remains high for at least the first two millimeters behind the fabric. Therefore, even when the fabric is against the wearer's skin (e.g., without the need for gaps between the wearer and the fabric to facilitate increased cooling), the wearer should experience greater cooling when wearing clothing made of the fabric described herein. In examples where the ambient air temperature is lower than the wearer's body temperature, the faster-flowing air may then flow over the wearer's body surface, and heat from the wearer's body may be transferred to the relatively fast-flowing air, facilitating cooling of the wearer by means of, for example, convection cooling.

[0044] This cooling characteristic contrasts with more traditional clothing that uses perforations to attempt to cool the wearer. In the example of traditional clothing, because perforations consist of holes with a consistent opening size or diameter as the perforation extends through the fabric, air entering the clothing from the outside may not be accelerated as it flows through the perforations. Therefore, the airflow around the wearer's body may be relatively reduced compared to the perforation configuration described herein, and consequently, the cooling effect on the wearer achieved through convection may also be relatively reduced.

[0045] In contrast to the fabric described herein, various aspects of this document further envision selecting yarn or fiber types to form the fabric to further improve its cooling characteristics. In various example aspects, the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns may comprise the same yarn type or different yarn types, or some yarn types may be the same and some yarn types may be different (e.g., the first plurality of yarns and the second plurality of yarns may be the same yarn type, while the connecting yarns may be different; or the connecting yarns may be the same yarn type as one of the first plurality of yarns or the second plurality of yarns but different from the other). For example, the yarn or fiber types used to form the fabric described herein may include polyester fibers, recycled polyester fibers, nylon, and recycled nylon. In other examples, the yarn or fiber types used to form the fabric described herein may include other yarn or fiber types described herein.

[0046] In various examples, the first plurality of yarns used to form the first knitted layer may include absorbent yarns that retain moisture (i.e., yarns with a relatively high moisture regain). In some aspects, the yarns may include natural fibers, such as, for example, cotton, wool, etc. The second plurality of yarns used to form the second knitted layer may include yarns that are relatively more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns (i.e., yarns with a relatively low moisture regain). Cellulose yarns, such as viscose or LYOCELL®, may be used when it is desired to use natural yarns and / or semi-synthetic yarns. Forming a relatively hydrophobic surface near the wearer's skin can improve wearer comfort by minimizing the feeling of wet material contacting the skin surface. The connecting yarns may be selected to facilitate the transfer of moisture from the second knitted layer to the first knitted layer. For example, the connecting yarns may have features that promote moisture wicking or transfer. In various aspects, one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the connecting yarns may include stretch textured yarns (DTY). Using DTY provides better air circulation and transfers moisture away from the skin. Similarly, when it is desired to use natural yarns and / or semi-synthetic yarns, multiple connecting yarns may include, for example, wool (e.g., Merino wool), alpaca wool, etc.

[0047] Choosing the yarns described above creates a hydrophilic gradient, or push / pull effect, which, via moisture-wicking connecting yarns, pushes / pulls moisture from the relatively hydrophobic first knit layer to the relatively hydrophilic second knit layer. This push / pull moisture transfer effect improves the fabric's breathability by promoting air exchange and transferring water vapor away from the wearer's skin. Once moisture is transferred to the second knit layer, it can be stored there.

[0048] In an example where the ambient air temperature is higher than the wearer's body temperature, the air entering the fabric through the pores can be cooled by the evaporation of moisture stored in the second knit layer. For example, the heat of the ambient air can help evaporate sweat stored in the second knit layer (e.g., air helps evaporate liquid sweat into vapor). When this occurs, the fabric, as well as the air passing through the now cooler fabric, may cool down. As a result, the temperature of the air passing through the fabric will be lower than the temperature of the ambient air outside the fabric, thus contributing to cooling the wearer through enhanced evaporative cooling.

[0049] Choosing the right yarn is equally important for providing fabrics with the desired drape (e.g., stiffness) when worn, and for garments made from those fabrics. As used herein, the term “drape” refers to the tendency of a fabric to conform to the shape of the wearer’s body and / or to respond to movement. Fabrics with higher drape may exhibit localized displacement and flow around curved surfaces, while fabrics with lower drape (i.e., higher stiffness) move more evenly as a single structure. Adjusting the drape characteristics of a fabric affects not only the fit and comfort of the garment but also its ability to retain airflow and breathability. This drape (e.g., stiffness) affects how the fabric drapes over the body and helps maintain separation between the garment and the skin. By preventing excessive cling, the fabric allows air to flow along the skin surface and promotes breathability, including through the first and second sets of pores.

[0050] Many yarn properties are essential for providing suitable drape (e.g., stiffness), such as yarn denier, yarn toughness, yarn moisture regain percentage, and denier per filament. These yarn properties will be discussed in more detail below. Similarly, many fabric properties are essential for providing suitable drape (e.g., stiffness), such as fabric stiffness and thickness. These fabric properties will be discussed in more detail below.

[0051] The yarns used herein (e.g., for the first knit layer, the second knit layer, connecting yarns, etc.) may have various deniers. As noted above, the yarns or fibers used to form the fabric described herein may be the same for the first layer, the second layer, and the connecting yarns, or may be partially the same and partially different, or they may be completely different from each other. This applies not only to the type of yarn or fiber material but also to the properties of the yarn or fiber (e.g., denier, or any other property or parameter discussed herein). For example, the yarns used herein may have a denier of at least 70D. Some aspects may use yarns with deniers in the range of 70D to 160D. One aspect may use yarns with a denier of 80D.

[0052] Similarly, the yarns used in this article may have various tensile strengths. For example, the yarns used in this article may have a tensile strength of 4 grams per denier. In another example, the yarns may have a tensile strength in the range of approximately 3.6 grams to approximately 4.8 grams per denier. In yet another example, the yarns may have a tensile strength in the range of approximately 3.0 grams to approximately 5.0 grams per denier.

[0053] Similarly, the yarns used in this article may have various moisture regain percentages. For example, the yarn may have a moisture regain of about 10%. In some cases, yarns with a moisture regain in the range of about 9% to about 13% may be used. In another case, yarn with a moisture regain of 9.9% may be used.

[0054] Furthermore, the yarns used herein (e.g., yarns used in the first layer, second layer, and / or connecting layers, and any and all combinations thereof) may have a variety of denier per filament. Generally, a higher denier per filament results in yarns with higher stiffness (e.g., higher rigidity). As discussed below, the stiffness (e.g., rigidity) of the yarns used herein can affect how well a fabric drapes when worn by a wearer. If the fabric is too stiff, it may be uncomfortable to wear. If the fabric is not stiff enough, it may drape excessively (i.e., cling too tightly to the wearer), which may also be uncomfortable to wear. To balance the need for stiffness and comfort, a range of yarns with denier per filament that is particularly useful has been identified. For example, yarns may have a denier per filament in the range of 0.5 to 2.5 and provide the desired stiffness for the fabrics and garments disclosed herein. Some aspects requiring increased stiffness may use yarns with a denier per filament in the range of 1.5 to 2.5. In some aspects, yarns may have a denier per filament of about 2.08. Other aspects with lower stiffness can use yarns ranging from 0.75 to 1.4 denier per filament. In some aspects, the yarn may have a denier of about 1.04 per filament. Other aspects with even lower stiffness can use yarns with a denier of less than 0.75 per filament.

[0055] Fabric stiffness can be measured using the circular bending procedure described in ASTM D4032-2008, which calculates the average force on the fabric in kilogram-forces (e.g., kgf). Clothing fabrics can have a wide range of stiffness. For example, some clothing fabrics have a stiffness ranging from 0.02 kgf to 0.60 kgf. Fabrics with excessive stiffness will not conform to the wearer's body and may be uncomfortable. Furthermore, if the fabric is too stiff and does not occasionally come into contact with the wearer's body, moisture generated by sweat may not be effectively transferred to the outer knit layer. On the other hand, fabrics with insufficient stiffness may drape excessively (i.e., it may cling to the wearer or be too tight). If the fabric is too stiff, airflow between the wearer and the inner layers of the fabric may be restricted. In either case, excessive or insufficient stiffness will result in reduced cooling for the wearer.

[0056] The fabrics used in this article may have an average stiffness of 0.101 kgf. In another example, the fabrics used in this article may have an average stiffness in the range of about 0.09 kgf to about 0.11 kgf. In yet another example, the fabrics used in this article may have an average stiffness in the range of about 0.07 kgf to about 0.13 kgf. In yet another example, the fabrics used in this article may have an average stiffness in the range of about 0.05 kgf to about 0.3 kgf. Maintaining stiffness within this range enhances breathability and promotes improved airflow into and out of the space enclosed by the fabric. For example, the fabric is less likely to cling tightly to the wearer's body (even when wet), thus allowing ambient air to circulate and supporting increased airflow velocity across the skin.

[0057] In some respects, fabric thickness can be measured using the procedures described in Option 5 of ASTM D1777-2019. Fabric thickness can also be measured using the procedures described in ISO 5084-1996. Fabric thickness also affects the drape of the fabric. As described herein, both low-loft and high-loft fabrics are useful. According to one example, the low-loft fabric used herein may have a thickness of 1.38 mm as measured according to ASTM standards, or 1.75 mm as measured according to ISO standards. In another example, the fabric used herein may have a thickness in the range of about 1.35 mm to about 1.42 mm according to ASTM standards, or in the range of about 1.70 mm to about 1.80 mm according to ISO standards. In yet another example, the fabric used herein may have a thickness in the range of about 1.10 mm to about 1.60 mm according to ASTM standards, or in the range of about 1.50 mm to about 2.10 mm according to ISO standards.

[0058] Compared to the low-loft constructions described above, higher-loft fabrics can be used to enhance airflow paths, increase structural separation between knit layers, or improve thermal conditioning. In some respects, the thickness of such fabrics can be about 6.35 mm, or fall within the range of about 5.1 mm to about 7.6 mm. In more general implementations, the thickness can range from about 3.8 mm to about 8.9 mm. Generally, useful knitted spacer fabric constructions can include both low-loft and high-loft configurations, with thickness values ​​ranging from about 1.05 mm to about 12.7 mm, as measured according to ASTM D1777-2019 or ISO 5084-1996. In all respects, the thickness values ​​provided herein include the average thickness of the entire fabric. The choice of thickness can depend on the desired balance of drape, breathability, cushioning, or garment fit.

[0059] When using a double-knitted fabric, the first knit layer can be formed of relatively absorbent yarns, and the second knit layer can be formed of yarns that are more hydrophobic than those in the first knit layer. This configuration also creates a push / pull effect, causing moisture to be pushed directly from the relatively hydrophobic first knit layer to the relatively hydrophilic second knit layer. When the fabric includes a nonwoven structure, the fibers used to form the first nonwoven layer can be relatively more hydrophilic than the fibers forming the second nonwoven layer, again creating a push / pull effect. When the fabric includes a woven structure, the yarns used to form the first woven layer can be relatively more hydrophilic than the yarns forming the second woven layer.

[0060] As used herein, the terms "clothing article," "garment," or "sports clothing article or garment" mean garment configured for wear by a wearer. In various examples, the garment may be worn by the wearer during sports activities. Garment may take the form of: lower garments, which in some respects may be close-fitting, such as leggings, high-elasticity leggings, capri pants, shorts, etc.; upper garments, which in some respects may be close-fitting, such as shirts or pullovers; and supportive garments, such as sports bras or sports vests, etc.

[0061] When referring to clothing, the term "outer surface" means the surface facing away from the wearer's body and towards the external environment. When referring to clothing, the term "inner surface" means the surface facing inwards or towards the wearer's body. The term "outermost surface" means the surface located furthest from the wearer's body relative to other layers or components of the clothing, and the term "innermost surface" means the surface located closest to the wearer's body relative to other layers or components of the clothing.

[0062] As used herein, the term "knitted spacer fabric" is intended to encompass both warp-knitted and weft-knitted spacer fabrics known in the field of fabrics. Spacer fabrics are typically formed by connecting a first knitted layer to a second knitted layer using at least one connecting yarn. More specifically, each of the first and second layers may be knitted individually, and the connecting yarn is used to connect the first and second knitted layers. For example, the connecting yarn may have "loop" portions extending into each of the first and second knitted layers, wherein the loop portions interlock with the yarns in the first and second knitted layers to connect the two layers.

[0063] Since each of the first and second knitted layers is knitted separately, whether simultaneously or sequentially on the same or different machines, and regardless of whether it is integrally formed with connecting yarns, each layer can be constructed using different yarn types and / or different knitting constructions, although the two layers can also use the same yarn type and construction. Furthermore, the connecting yarns used to connect the layers can be formed from yarn types that are the same as or different from the yarn types used in any of the knitted layers. Within a given knitted layer, a particular yarn can extend through at least a portion of that knitted layer. To distinguish between knitted spacer fabrics and double-knitted fabrics, a criterion could be whether yarn transfer occurs. In double-knitted fabrics, yarns transfer from the face layer to the bottom layer and vice versa. In knitted spacer fabrics, yarns do not transfer from the first knitted layer to the second knitted layer. In other words, the yarns forming the first knitted layer and the yarns forming the second knitted layer are separate and distinct, and the first and second knitted layers are typically connected only by connecting yarns.

[0064] As used herein, the term "nonwoven fabric" refers to fibers held together by mechanical and / or chemical interactions without being knitted, woven, braided, or otherwise structured. In one specific aspect, a nonwoven fabric comprises an assembly of fibers mechanically manipulated to form a cushion-like material. In other words, a nonwoven fabric is made directly from fibers. A nonwoven fabric may comprise two nonwoven layers held together, for example, by entanglement of two layers of fibers (e.g., needle-punched entanglement, hydroentanglement), adhesives, bonding, sewing, etc. Different nonwoven layers may be formed from fibers with different properties (e.g., highly hygroscopic fibers, less hygroscopic fibers, etc.).

[0065] As used herein, the term "moisture regain" refers to the amount of water a material (e.g., fiber or yarn) is capable of reabsorbing after being dried, and is expressed as the weight / weight percentage (w / w%) of water in the fiber relative to the dry weight of the fiber. The term "moisture wicking" refers to the ability of a fiber or yarn formed from fibers to move moisture through capillary action. Capillary action typically causes moisture to move between fibers in a yarn. Moisture wicking characteristics can be imparted by properties of the fiber itself. For example, Merino wool fibers typically have a hydrophobic wax on the outer surface of the fiber, which helps to repel moisture and forces moisture to move between fibers through capillary action. In another example, the fiber may have an irregular shape (e.g., a trefoil cross-sectional shape, crimped fibers, etc.), which creates spaces between bundled fibers through which moisture is transported via capillary action.

[0066] As used herein, the term "breathability" refers to the ability of a fabric or garment to allow air and / or water vapor to pass through its structure. Increased breathability can result from structural features such as pores, fabric porosity, zoning variations in material construction, or the selection of yarns and fibers that promote airflow and moisture transport. Breathability can enhance wearer comfort by promoting convective cooling and / or evaporative cooling.

[0067] The term "aperture size" depends on the shape of the hole. When the hole is circular, the aperture size is the length (i.e., diameter) of a straight line from one side of the hole through the center of the hole to the other side. When the hole is oval, the aperture size is taken along the semi-major axis of the oval shape. When the hole has an irregular shape, all aspects of this paper assume that the aperture size is the longest dimension from one side of the hole to the other, with the line passing through a defined center of the shape.

[0068] As used herein, the term "axial alignment" means, for example, that the centers of the first hole in a first group of holes and the second hole in a second group of holes are located on the same line in space. In other words, the centers of the holes are collinear. In various respects, the axial alignment described herein can exist after the knitting process is completed. However, in some respects, after the fabric has undergone one or more post-knitting treatment steps (e.g., heat setting, hot pressing, molding, etc.), the axial alignment may deviate from the above description (i.e., the centers of the holes may not be collinear).

[0069] As used herein, the term “about” means within ±5% of the indicated value.

[0070] Unless otherwise specified, all measurements provided herein were taken at standard ambient temperature and pressure (25 degrees Celsius or 298.15 K and 1 bar), with the knitted spacer fabric in a resting (unstretched) state. Unless otherwise specified, the dimensional values ​​described herein may include approximately ±5% manufacturing tolerance to account for acceptable production variations. In some respects, the fabrics and garment constructions described herein may exhibit dimensional changes over time (e.g., due to washing or repeated use), including shrinkage of up to approximately 5%, without significantly affecting performance characteristics such as breathability, airflow, or fit.

[0071] Figure 1AAn example knitted spacer fabric 100 is depicted. The knitted spacer fabric 100 includes a first knitted layer 110 extending in the x, y plane and a second knitted layer 112 extending in the x, y plane, wherein the second knitted layer 112 is parallel to the first knitted layer 110 and is offset or spaced apart from the first knitted layer 110 by multiple connecting yarns 114 knitted together with the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112. Although only one connecting yarn 114 is depicted, it is envisioned herein that multiple connecting yarns 114 could be used to connect the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 together.

[0072] The connecting yarns 114, indicated by reference numerals 113 and 115 and shown in dashed lines to indicate the portions that are normally hidden and not visible, represent those areas of the connecting yarns 114 that interlock with the yarns forming the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112, respectively. As used throughout this disclosure, when referring to the connecting yarn, the term "loop" or "loop portion" means the portion of the connecting yarn that extends into the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 and interlocks with the yarns in the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112.

[0073] The discussion regarding the yarns used to form the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 will be relative to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 To provide. In various examples, multiple connecting yarns 114 may be selected to provide moisture-wicking capabilities. Some examples of natural fibers with moisture-wicking properties include wool, including merino wool, alpaca wool, etc. (e.g., natural protein fibers composed of keratin). Other examples may use natural cellulose fibers, including cotton, linen, hemp, etc. Still other examples may use semi-synthetic fibers, such as LYOCELL®, viscose, etc. (e.g., natural cellulose that has been chemically processed into a liquid and reshaped into fibers). Various aspects of this document also envision the use of synthetic fibers, such as polyester, recycled polyester, nylon, spandex, elastic fibers, LYCRA®, etc. Various aspects also envision the use of DTY, which provides sufficient stiffness to the fabric so that the garment formed from the fabric has a beneficial amount of drape (e.g., stiffness) while also having beneficial moisture-wicking properties to move sweat from the second knit layer 112 to the first knit layer 110.

[0074] In some examples, the connecting yarn 114 defines the overall thickness of the knitted spacer fabric 100 by spanning between the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112. The length of the connecting yarn 114 (i.e., the height of the spacer structure) directly affects the fabric's bulk and, consequently, its drape, breathability, and structural properties. By adjusting the length of the connecting yarn, the fabric can be engineered to achieve a desired balance between flexibility, structural resilience, and airflow management. The ability to customize the length of the connecting yarn allows for fine-tuning how the fabric fits the body and interacts with adjacent garment layers, thus supporting the wide range of thicknesses described above.

[0075] The knitted spacer fabric 100 also includes holes. For example, a first knitted layer 110 includes a first set of holes 116 that extend through the thickness of the first knitted layer 110. Each hole (such as hole 116a) has a first opening size 118. For each hole in the first set of holes 116, the first opening size 118 may be substantially the same (e.g., differing from each other within ±1 mm to 2 mm). In other respects, the first opening size 118 may differ for one or more holes in the first set of holes 116. In an example, the knitted spacer fabric 100 may include: a first section including one or more holes in the first set of holes 116 having the first opening size 118; and a second section including one or more holes in the first set of holes 116 with different opening sizes that are larger than the first opening size 118. The first opening size 118 may be from about 5 mm to about 2 cm.

[0076] In the example, the knitted spacer fabric 100 may include: a first section comprising one or more holes in a first set of holes 116 spaced apart from each other across the first knitted layer 110 by a first distance; and a second section comprising one or more holes in the first set of holes 116 spaced apart from each other across the first knitted layer 110 by a second distance, the first distance being different from the second distance. In various aspects, each hole in the first set of holes 116 may be spaced apart from adjacent holes by about 2 mm to about 8 mm, or about 4 mm to about 7 mm.

[0077] By varying the pore size and / or pore spacing between the zones (e.g., the first and second zones), the knitted spacer fabric 100 can be engineered to provide zones with increased breathability in areas corresponding to higher heat or sweat generation. For example, one or more zones may include a larger pore density (e.g., the number of pores per unit area) to facilitate air exchange and water vapor transport in these zones. Some examples may include a first knitted layer 110 having approximately 1.5 to approximately 25 pores per square centimeter.

[0078] In the example, the first knitted layer 110 may include a knitted layer having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. As discussed herein, a first set of holes 116 may be formed in the first knitted layer such that they have an oblong shape having a first diameter aligned with the longitudinal direction and a second diameter aligned with the transverse direction. In various aspects, the first diameter may be from about 5 mm to about 22 mm, and the second diameter may be from about 2 mm to about 10 mm. In other aspects, the first diameter may be from about 12 mm to about 19 mm, and the second diameter may be from about 4 mm to about 8 mm. In still other aspects, the first diameter may be from about 16.25 mm to about 17.25 mm, and the second diameter may be from about 5.5 mm to about 6.5 mm. In these examples, the hole area of ​​the first set of holes 116 may range from about 7.85 mm². 2 Approximately 172.8mm 2 or approximately 37mm 2 Approximately 119mm 2 Or approximately 70mm 2 Approximately 88mm 2 .

[0079] The second knitted layer 112 includes a second set of holes 120 extending through the thickness of the second knitted layer 112. Each hole (such as hole 120a) has a second opening size 122. For each hole in the second set of holes 120, the second opening size 122 may be substantially the same (e.g., differing from each other within ±1 mm to 2 mm). In other respects, the second opening size 122 may differ for one or more holes in the second set of holes 120. In an example, the knitted spacer fabric 100 may include: a first section comprising one or more holes in the second set of holes 120 having the second opening size 122; and a second section comprising one or more holes in the second set of holes 120 having a different opening size greater than the second opening size 122. The second opening size 122 may be about 2 mm to about 1.5 cm, or about 4 mm to about 1.3 cm.

[0080] In various examples, the second opening size 122 may differ from the first opening size 118 of the first set of holes 116. In various examples, the second opening size 122 is smaller than the first opening size 118. For example, the first opening size 118 may be at least about 1.25 times to about 2.5 times the second opening size 122, or it may be at least about 1.5 times to 2.0 times the second opening size 122. In the example, the knitted spacer fabric 100 may include: a first section comprising one or more holes in the second set of holes 120 spaced apart from each other across the second knitted layer 112 by a first distance; and a second section comprising one or more holes in the second set of holes 120 spaced apart from each other across the second knitted layer 112 by a second distance, the first distance being different from the second distance. In various aspects, each hole in the second set of holes 120 may be spaced about 2 mm to about 1 cm from an adjacent hole, or about 4 mm to about 7 mm from an adjacent hole.

[0081] By altering the pore size or pore spacing between the zones (e.g., the first and second zones), the knitted spacer fabric 100 can be engineered to provide zones with increased breathability in areas corresponding to higher heat or sweat generation. For example, one or more zones of the second knitted layer 112 may include a larger pore density (e.g., the number of pores per unit area) to facilitate enhanced air exchange, evaporative cooling, and localized moisture management. Some examples may include a second knitted layer 112 having approximately 1.0 pore to approximately 25 pores per square centimeter.

[0082] In the example, the second knitted layer 112 may include a knitted layer having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. As discussed herein, a second set of holes 120 may be formed in the second knitted layer such that each hole has an oblong shape having a first diameter aligned with the longitudinal direction and a second diameter aligned with the transverse direction. In various aspects, the first diameter may range from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, and the second diameter may range from about 1 mm to about 10 mm. In other aspects, the first diameter may range from about 5 mm to about 9 mm, and the second diameter may range from about 3 mm to about 6 mm. In still other aspects, the first diameter may range from about 7 mm to about 7.75 mm, and the second diameter may range from about 4.5 mm to about 5.25 mm. In these examples, the hole area of ​​the second set of holes 120 may range from about 1.57 mm² to about 117.8 mm², or from about 11.8 mm² to about 42.4 mm², or from about 24 mm² to about 31.9 mm².

[0083] Each hole in the second set of holes 120 can be axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes 116, such that a through-channel is formed through the thickness of the knitted spacer fabric 100. This can be illustrated, for example, by an axial alignment line 124 extending through the centers of holes 116a and 120a. Because the second opening size 122 is smaller than the first opening size 118, the through-channel narrows as it extends from the first knitted layer 110 through the second knitted layer 112, forming a funnel-shaped structure. As further described below, the funnel-shaped structure allows air flowing through the through-channel to accelerate as it moves from the first knitted layer 110 to the second knitted layer 112. Also as further described below, the funnel-shaped structure may include sidewalls defined by connecting yarns 114.

[0084] In various aspects, the connecting yarns 114 may extend perpendicular to either or both of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112. In further aspects, some of the connecting yarns 114 may extend at an angle of less than ninety degrees to either or both of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 (referred to herein as extending at an angle to such knitted layers). When at least some of the connecting yarns 114 extend at an angle to either or both of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112, the axially aligned holes are provided with a funnel-shaped structure.

[0085] In other words, axially aligned holes can present slanted edges. Depending on the number and spacing of the connecting yarns 114 extending at an angle, the slanted edge can be a solid slanted edge (or surface) or a defined effective slanted edge (or surface). As used herein, a solid slanted edge or surface refers to an edge or surface that is substantially continuous and uniform, without noticeable interruptions, gaps, or crevices, such that the solid slanted edge or surface presents a substantially uninterrupted profile in appearance and function. In contrast, an effective slanted edge or surface refers to an edge or surface that, despite potentially including spaces, gaps, or discontinuities, functions as a slanted edge or surface when intended for observation or use (such as guiding, deflecting, or supporting material). In the example, the slanted edge may have a constant angle relative to one or both of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112. In a further example, the slanted edge may have a variable angle at its periphery relative to one or both of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112. That is, the angle at which the connecting yarn extends at one location on the periphery is closer to ninety degrees than the angle at which the connecting yarn extends at another location on the periphery. For example, in the context of a warp-knitted spacer fabric having longitudinal and transverse directions, the inclination of the inclined edge at the transverse end can be less than the inclination of the inclined edge at the longitudinal end.

[0086] This structure occurs when the connecting yarn 114 extends from a position adjacent to a hole in the first knit layer 110 to a position adjacent to a hole in the second knit layer 112. When viewed from the side of the first knit layer 110, these connecting yarns 114 are visible through the holes in the first knit layer 110 (but are obscured and not visible when viewed through the holes in the second knit layer 112).

[0087] Although described as a funnel-shaped structure, this description is not limited to a set of circular holes with a constant diameter. As described below, the first set of holes 116 and / or the second set of holes 120 can have various shapes (e.g., circular, oblong, oval, elliptical, spindle-shaped, rectangular, regular, irregular, etc.), and these shapes do not need to match each other. In such cases, the funnel-shaped structure may not have a constant diameter, but only a cross-sectional area that decreases from the first knitted layer 110 to the second knitted layer 112.

[0088] In other respects, the first set of holes 116 may not be axially aligned with the second set of holes 120. For example, in these respects, the center of hole 116a may not be axially aligned with the center of hole 120a. In some respects, the corresponding holes may be partially aligned (e.g., when viewed from above, hole 116a may partially overlap with hole 120a).

[0089] In other respects, the corresponding holes may be offset from each other so that they do not overlap. In these aspects of non-axial alignment, air can enter the holes in the first set of holes 116 and pass through the space between the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112, and then through one or more holes in the second set of holes 120.

[0090] right Figure 1A The depiction of the knitted spacer fabric 100 shown is merely illustrative. For example, it is contemplated herein that the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 may be located closer to each other than shown. Similarly, the orientation of the connecting yarns 114 may differ from the orientation shown. For example, some or all of the connecting yarns 114 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the x, y plane of the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112, or some or all of the connecting yarns 114 may be oriented at an angle of less than 90 degrees. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0091] In one example, the first plurality of connecting yarns that connect the first set of holes 116 in the first knitted layer 110 and the corresponding second set of holes 120 in the second knitted layer 112 may be oriented at a smaller acute angle relative to the x, y plane (compared to the orientation of the plurality of connecting yarns that connect the first knitted layer 110 and the second knitted layer 112 to each other outside the perimeter of the holes).

[0092] In another example, when the first set of holes 116 in the first knitted layer 110 and the second set of holes 120 in the second knitted layer 112 are the same size, the connecting yarn 114 can be oriented at approximately 90 degrees.

[0093] Holes can be formed in either the first knitted layer 110 or the second knitted layer 112 in a variety of ways. For example, holes can be formed integrally by knitting, or they can be removed from the fabric layers (e.g., by cutting, punching, piercing, laser cutting, etc.).

[0094] Figure 1B A schematic cross-section of a second example configuration of the fabric described herein is depicted. Figure 1B The image depicts a fabric 150 comprising a first layer 152 and a second layer 154, the second layer being located adjacent to the first layer 152. The first layer 152 may include, for example, a first knitted layer of a double-knitted fabric, a first nonwoven layer of a nonwoven fabric, a first woven layer of a woven fabric, etc. The second layer 154 may include, for example, a second knitted layer of a double-knitted fabric, a second nonwoven layer of a nonwoven fabric, a second woven layer of a woven fabric, etc. As also described above, different constructions (knitted, woven, or nonwoven) can be combined with each other.

[0095] Depending on the structure of the first layer 152 and the second layer 154, layers 152 and 154 can be fixed to each other in various ways. For example, when the first layer 152 and the second layer 154 include a knitted structure, layers 152 and 154 can be fixed to each other adjacently by yarns transferred from the first layer 152 to the second layer 154 and / or yarns transferred from the second layer 154 to the first layer 152, or fixed to each other by adhesives, glues, etc. When the first layer 152 and the second layer 154 include a nonwoven structure, layers 152 and 154 can be fixed to each other by entanglement, adhesives, bonding, etc. When the first layer 152 and the second layer 154 include a woven structure, layers 152 and 154 can be interwoven with each other, or fixed to each other by adhesives, glues, etc.

[0096] The first layer 152 includes a first set of holes 156 having a first opening size 158. The second layer 154 includes a second set of holes 160 having a second opening size 162, which is smaller than the first opening size 158. Each hole in the first set of holes 156 is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the second set of holes 160. The opening size and spacing between adjacent holes can be relative to... Figure 1A Those described are similar or the same.

[0097] Figure 1CA schematic cross-section of a third fabric 170 according to various aspects thereof is depicted. In this example, fabric 170 comprises a single-layer fabric having a first surface 172 and an opposing second surface 174. When bonded to a garment, the first surface 172 forms an outer surface, which includes the outermost surface of the garment, and the second surface 174 forms an inner surface, which includes the innermost surface of the garment. Fabric 170 may include a knitted construction (e.g., a single-knitted construction or a double-knitted construction), a nonwoven construction, a woven construction, etc.

[0098] In various examples, finishing agent 176 may be deposited on the second surface 174 to help make the second surface 174 more hydrophobic than the first surface 172. For example, finishing agent 176 may include a durable water-repellent agent. In another example, plasma vapor deposition may be used to impart hydrophobic properties to the second surface 174.

[0099] In the example, fabric 170 may include holes 178 extending through the thickness of fabric 170. In the example, the holes 178 may be funnel-shaped, such that the opening size 180 on the first surface 172 is larger than the opening size 182 on the second surface 174. The opening size and spacing between adjacent holes may be relative to... Figure 1A Those described are similar or the same.

[0100] As discussed herein, each of fabrics 100, 150, and 170 may have a thickness. The thickness of the fabric can affect the stiffness of the fabric. In other words, the thickness of the fabric determines how well it drapes when worn by a wearer. For example, if the fabric is too thin, it may drape excessively, which could result in insufficient airflow between the fabric and the wearer. In some respects, fabrics with a thickness between 0.1 inches (2.54 mm) and 0.4 inches (10.16 mm) provide useful stiffness. In other respects, fabrics may have a thickness between 0.2 inches (5.08 mm) and 0.3 inches (7.62 mm). In another respect, fabrics may have a thickness of approximately 0.25 inches (6.35 mm). In still other respects, fabrics with a thickness between 0.03 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.3 inches (7.62 mm) provide useful stiffness. In other respects, the fabric may have a thickness between 0.06 inches (1.524 mm) and 0.08 inches (2.032 mm). On the other hand, the fabric may have a thickness of about 0.07 inches (1.778 mm).

[0101] Figure 2A view is depicted of the first surface 210 of the knitted spacer fabric 100, formed by the first knitted layer 110 of the knitted spacer fabric 100. Interlocking knitted loops forming the first knitted layer 110 are depicted on the first surface 210. The first surfaces of fabrics 150 and / or 170 will have a similar appearance, differing in that: when the fabric is nonwoven, the first surface will include tangled fibers; or when the fabric is woven, the first surface will include interlaced yarns. When incorporated into a garment, the first surface 210 will form the outer surface of the garment, and in some respects, the outermost surface of the garment.

[0102] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the first set of holes 116 is depicted as generally circular, although other shapes (e.g., oblong, oval, elliptical, rectangular, spindle-shaped, regular, irregular, etc.) are contemplated herein. Figure 2 The second set of holes 120 and multiple connecting yarns 114 on the second knitted layer 112 are also visible. Figure 2 The number of holes, hole sizes, arrangement of the first group of holes 116, and spacing between adjacent holes depicted herein are illustrative. Various aspects of this document envision irregular arrangements of holes, different spacing between adjacent holes, different hole sizes, different numbers of holes, etc. For example, irregular arrangements, different spacing, different sizes, different numbers, or other different characteristics of holes may differ between a first section and a second section of the fabric. In one aspect, the first section may include an edge area of ​​the fabric (e.g., a region of the fabric within three inches of the edge of the fabric), and the second section may include an inner area of ​​the fabric (e.g., a region of the fabric more than three inches from the edge of the fabric).

[0103] In various examples, the first knitted layer 110 is formed of a first plurality of yarns 111. When the first layer comprises a nonwoven fabric, the first layer will be formed of a first plurality of fibers. In some examples, the first plurality of yarns 111 (or fibers) may be selected to readily absorb moisture. In other words, the first plurality of yarns 111 (or fibers) may be selected to have a relatively high moisture regain, such as about 5% or greater, 6% or greater, 7% or greater, 8% or greater, 9% or greater, or 10% or greater. When natural fibers / yarns are desired, the first plurality of yarns 111 (or fibers) may include, for example, cotton, silk, wool, linen, etc. When synthetic fibers / yarns are desired, the first plurality of yarns 111 (or fibers) may include, for example, nylon 6 and / or nylon 66. In some examples, a phase change material (such as a hydrogel or other hygroscopic material) may be added to the first knitted layer 110 to further enhance the absorbent properties of the first knitted layer 110.

[0104] Figure 3A view is depicted of the second surface 310 of the knitted spacer fabric 100, formed by the second knitted layer 112 of the knitted spacer fabric 100, opposite the first surface 210. The second surfaces of fabrics 150 and / or 170 will have a similar appearance, differing in that: when the fabric is nonwoven, the second surface will include tangled fibers; or when the fabric is woven, the second surface will include interlaced yarns. When incorporated into garments, the second surface 310 is located adjacent to the wearer's skin surface and forms the inner surface of the garment, and in some respects, the innermost surface of the garment. Figure 3 The image further depicts the connecting yarn 114 and the first knitted layer 110.

[0105] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the second set of holes 120 is depicted as generally circular, although other shapes are contemplated herein. Furthermore, the shapes of the holes are contemplated in various aspects of this document to differ between the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120. For example, the first set of holes 116 may be circular, and the second set of holes 120 may be oval, or vice versa. Figure 3 The number of holes, hole sizes, arrangement of the second set of holes 120, and spacing between adjacent holes depicted herein are illustrative. Various aspects of this document envision one or more of the following: irregular arrangement of holes, different spacing between adjacent holes, different hole sizes, different numbers of holes, etc. For example, irregular arrangement of holes, different spacing, different sizes, different numbers, or other different characteristics may differ between a first section and a second section of the fabric. In one aspect, the first section may include an edge area of ​​the fabric (e.g., a region of the fabric within three inches of the edge of the fabric), and the second section may include an inner area of ​​the fabric (e.g., a region of the fabric more than three inches from the edge of the fabric). In some examples, the irregular arrangement may extend throughout the entire fabric. In various illustrative aspects, there is a one-to-one correspondence in the number of the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120, such that each hole in the first set of holes 116 is axially aligned with the corresponding hole in the second set of holes 120.

[0106] In various examples, the second knitted layer 112 is formed of a second plurality of yarns 113. When the second layer includes a nonwoven fabric, the nonwoven fabric may be formed of a second plurality of fibers. In some examples, the second plurality of yarns 113 (or fibers) may be selected to be relatively more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns 111. In other words, the second plurality of yarns 113 (or fibers) may be selected to have a lower moisture regain than the first plurality of yarns 111 (or fibers).

[0107] Examples of semi-synthetic yarns that can be used for the second multiple yarns 113 are cellulose yarns, such as viscose or LYOCELL®. In one example, the cellulose yarn may comprise a continuously extruded, wet-spun cellulose yarn. Using a continuously extruded cellulose yarn (such as LYOCELL®) imparts a smooth surface to the yarn compared to a staple-spun cellulose yarn. In turn, the smooth surface gives the second surface 310 a cooler feel or touch than a staple-spun yarn, because the fiber ends of the staple-spun yarn may protrude from the surface and give the second surface 310 a “rougher” feel. For example, in various examples, the second knitted layer 112 may have approximately 0.25 W / cm². 2 Q MAX (Q) MAX (Measurement of instantaneous heat transfer when the fabric surface is in contact with a sensor). In other examples, the second knitted layer 112 may have approximately 0.14 W / cm². 2 Up to 0.235W / cm 2 Q MAX In other examples, the second knitted layer 112 may have a strength of approximately 0.10 W / cm². 2 Up to 0.30W / cm 2 Q MAX Additionally, smoothness provides a low-friction surface, thereby improving the feel of the fabric.

[0108] Furthermore, using continuously extruded cellulose yarns can improve manufacturing efficiency compared to staple fiber spun yarns. For example, continuously extruded yarns are better able to withstand the tension imposed on the yarn during the knitting process, thus aiding in warping and warp or weft knitting. In one example, the second multiple yarn 113 may have a tensile strength of approximately 4 grams per denier. In contrast, staple fiber spun yarns may break under high tension and may produce more waste than continuously extruded yarns, thus reducing manufacturing efficiency.

[0109] In the example, cellulose yarns (such as viscose or LYOCELL®) can be selected because they have a relatively higher moisture regain than, for example, polyester and / or nylon yarns. This may be desirable because the second knitted layer 112 can retain some of the wearer's sweat, which helps to further cool the air entering the openings 116 and 120, as described further below. In one example, continuously extruded cellulose yarns can be combined with yarns having a relatively low moisture regain to reduce the overall moisture regain of the second multiple yarns 113. For example, LYOCELL® yarns can be twisted with polyester or recycled polyester yarns to reduce the overall moisture regain of the twisted yarns.

[0110] When synthetic fibers / yarns are desired, the second multiple yarns 113 (or fibers) may include, for example, polyester fibers (including recycled polyester fibers), spandex, acrylic fibers, modified acrylic fibers, etc. The use of thermally conductive yarns / fibers is also envisioned to help transfer heat away from the wearer's skin surface and to impart a "cool" feel to the second surface 310. The cool feel can also be imparted by a finishing agent (e.g., a "cooling" finishing agent) applied to the second surface 310.

[0111] Figure 4 A schematic diagram depicts a knitted spacer fabric 100 positioned relative to the wearer's body surface 410. Although the knitted spacer fabric 100 is shown, the following description generally applies to fabric 150 as well, unless otherwise indicated herein. A description of how fabric 170 works is described below. As shown, the second surface 310 of the second knitted layer 112 is located directly adjacent to the body surface 410. The first knitted layer 110 is spaced apart from the second knitted layer 112 by a plurality of connecting yarns 114, such that the first knitted layer 110 does not contact the wearer's body surface 410. Relative to fabric 150, the first layer 152 is spaced apart from the body surface 410 by a second layer 154.

[0112] When the wearer's body surface 410 begins to sweat, as indicated by reference numeral 412, the sweat 412 comes into contact with the second knit layer 112, and the second knit layer 112 helps to "pull" the sweat 412 away from the wearer's body, thereby improving the wearer's comfort. Because the second plurality of yarns 113 forming the second knit layer 112 are relatively hydrophobic (e.g., relative to the moisture-wicking connecting yarn 114 and / or the first plurality of yarns 111), they push the sweat 412 toward the moisture-wicking connecting yarn 114 (or the first plurality of yarns 111). This method of removing moisture from the skin surface enhances breathability by allowing sweat to be transported away from the body while allowing air to circulate along the wearer's skin. In examples using cellulose yarns (such as continuously extruded cellulose yarns), some of the sweat 412 may be retained in the second knit layer 112. This may enhance the cooling effect that occurs when ambient air enters the holes 116 and 120.

[0113] In all respects, where the second knitted layer 112 is a non-absorbent hydrophobic layer that does not absorb sweat 412 (e.g., where moisture absorption is prevented or significantly inhibited), the moisture-wicking connecting yarn 114, which interlocks with the second knitted layer 112, can transfer sweat 412 to the first knitted layer 110.

[0114] As indicated by arrow 414, the moisture-wicking connecting yarn 114 transfers sweat 412 to the first knit layer 110. Since the first knit layer 110 is relatively more hydrophilic than the second knit layer 112, it helps to draw sweat 412 out of the second knit layer 112 and the connecting yarn 114.

[0115] Once sweat 412 reaches the first knitted layer 110, it is absorbed by the first multiple yarns 111 (or fibers). The absorbed sweat 412 can diffuse laterally along the first knitted layer 110 as indicated by arrow 416. The sweat 412 retained in the first knitted layer 110 can help cool the wearer through evaporative cooling. This can be particularly beneficial when the ambient air temperature is higher than the wearer's body temperature. In this example, air entering the knitted spacer fabric 100 through, for example, holes 116 and 120 can transfer heat to the sweat 412, causing the sweat to change from liquid to vapor. This heat transfer helps cool the air. Evaporation of sweat 412 helps cool the knitted spacer fabric 100. As a result, the temperature of the air passing through the knitted spacer fabric 100 can be lower than the temperature of the ambient air outside the knitted spacer fabric 100, thereby helping to cool the wearer through enhanced evaporative cooling.

[0116] The first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 provide additional cooling. Air from the external environment enters the first set of holes 116, as indicated by arrow 418. In some examples, the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 may be positioned on the garment such that air from the external environment enters the holes 116 and 120 approximately perpendicular to the first surface 210 of, for example, the knitted spacer fabric 100. This, in turn, increases the pressure of the air entering the knitted spacer fabric 100, which may contribute to cooling. As air moves toward the smaller second set of holes 120, the air may accelerate, as indicated by the smaller dashed line in arrow 418. The relatively fast-moving air exits from the second set of holes 120 and flows over the wearer's body surface 410. Specifically, a fabric with sufficient stiffness so that the knitted spacer fabric 100 does not cling to the wearer allows the air entering the second set of holes 120 to flow more freely over the body surface 410.

[0117] When the air temperature is lower than the wearer's body surface 410, the heat generated by the body surface 410 is carried away from the body surface 410 by the cooler, fast-moving air. For example, when the outside air temperature is generally lower than the wearer's body temperature, convective airflow may form, in which warmer air rises and dissipates through the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120, while cooler air moves in to replace the warmer air. This can further contribute to cooling the wearer through convection. In addition, when cellulose yarn / fiber is used to form the second knitted layer 112, the cellulose yarn / fiber can retain some moisture. The air entering the spaced-out knitted fabric 100 through the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 can promote evaporative cooling of the second knitted layer 112, which can further enhance the cooling of the wearer.

[0118] Compared to Figure 1C The fabric 170 shown may be formed from relatively absorbent yarns or fibers (such as cellulose yarns / fibers, wool, alpaca wool, cotton, etc.). A relatively hydrophobic finishing agent (e.g., finishing agent 176) (such as a durable water repellent) may be applied to the second surface 174 to make the second surface 174 relatively more hydrophobic than the first surface 172 of the fabric 170. In another example, plasma vapor deposition may be used to impart hydrophobic properties to the second surface 174. When the fabric 170 is located adjacent to the wearer's body surface (e.g., body surface 410), sweat 412 is absorbed from the wearer's body surface 410 into the fabric 170. Due to the hydrophilic-hydrophobic gradient, the absorbed sweat 412 is then pushed toward the relatively more hydrophilic first surface 172, where the sweat evaporates and helps to cool the wearer. As described above, the pores 178 may further contribute to cooling the wearer's body surface 410.

[0119] Figure 5 An upper garment 500 formed wholly or partially of a knitted spacer fabric 100 is illustrated. In various examples, a first knitted layer 110 is positioned outwards or externally, as shown. Thus, the first knitted layer 110 forms an outer surface that includes the outermost surface of the upper garment 500. In various examples, a second knitted layer 112 faces inwards to form an inner surface that includes the innermost surface of the upper garment 500. When the upper garment 500 is formed of fabric 150, a first layer 152 faces outwards, and a second layer 154 faces inwards. When the upper garment 500 is formed of fabric 170, a first surface 172 faces outwards, and a second surface 174 faces inwards.

[0120] The upper garment 500 is depicted as a fitted vest having a front torso portion 510, a back torso portion 512, a neck opening 514, a waist opening 516, a first sleeve opening 518, and opposing second sleeve openings 520. Although shown as a fitted vest, the document contemplates that the upper garment 500 may include other configurations, such as, for example, a top with sleeves, a jacket, support garment, underwear, a hoodie, a half-length vest, etc. In each example, the upper garment 500 may be fitted, and in other examples, the upper garment 500 may be loose (e.g., loose-fitting).

[0121] A larger set of first-group holes 116 is located on the outermost surface of the front torso portion 510, and a smaller set of second-group holes 120 is also visible through the first set of holes 116. The second set of holes 120 is located on the innermost surface of the upper garment 500. Various aspects of this text contemplate that the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 may also exist on the rear torso portion 512. For example, as depicted near the neck opening 514, the second knitted layer 112 and the second set of holes 120 are visible. Figure 5 The depiction of the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 is illustrative, and various aspects herein envision that holes 116 and 120 may have dimensions different from those shown, configurations different from those shown, shapes different from those shown, etc.

[0122] Although the first set of orifices 116 and the second set of orifices 120 are depicted as existing throughout the anterior trunk portion 510 and the posterior trunk portion 512, various aspects herein envision that the first set of orifices 116 and the second set of orifices 120 may be zoned based on, for example, a thermal distribution map and / or a sweat distribution map of the human body. For example, the first set of orifices 116 and the second set of orifices 120 may be located in areas of high heat and / or sweating of the human body (e.g., the upper back, the anterior chest).

[0123] As described, air flowing outside the garment 500 can be introduced into the interior of the garment 500 through the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120. The rapidly flowing air then circulates around the wearer's body, thus helping to cool the wearer. This circulation of air within the garment enhances its breathability. The description of holes 116 and 120 also applies to holes 156 and 160 of fabric 150 and hole 178 of fabric 170.

[0124] Figure 6An example of a lower garment 600 formed wholly or partially of a knitted spacer fabric 100 is illustrated. In each example, a first knitted layer 110 is positioned outwards or externally, as shown. Thus, the first knitted layer 110 forms an outer surface that includes the outermost surface of the lower garment 600. In each example, a second knitted layer 112 faces inwards and forms an inner surface that includes the innermost surface of the lower garment 600. When the lower garment 600 is formed of fabric 150, the first layer 152 faces outwards, and the second layer 154 faces inwards. When the lower garment 600 is formed of fabric 170, the first surface 172 faces outwards, and the second surface 174 faces inwards.

[0125] The lower garment 600 is depicted as leggings having a front torso portion 610, a back torso portion 612, a waist opening 614, a first leg portion 616 having a first leg opening 618, and a second leg portion 620 having a second leg opening 622. Although shown as leggings, the lower garment 600 is contemplated herein to include other configurations, such as, for example, capri leggings, five-quarter leggings, shorts, trousers, culottes, a single-piece vest-style sportswear, a bodysuit, etc. Various aspects of the document contemplate that the lower garment 600 can be either form-fitting or loose-fitting.

[0126] The larger first set of holes 116 is located on the outermost surface of the forequarter portion 610, and the smaller second set of holes 120 is also visible. The second set of holes 120 is located on the innermost surface of the lower garment 600. Various aspects of this text conjecture that the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 may also exist on the rearquarter portion 612. Figure 6 The depiction of the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 is illustrative, and various aspects herein envision that holes 116 and 120 may have different dimensions, different configurations, etc. than those shown. Figure 6 The first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 are depicted as being zoned based on, for example, a thermal distribution map and / or a sweat distribution map of the human body. Various aspects of this document also envision the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120 being present throughout the entire forequarter portion 610 and the posterior trunk portion 612, as well as the first leg portion 616 and the second leg portion 620. The description of holes 116 and 120 also applies to holes 156 and 160 of fabric 150 and hole 178 of fabric 170.

[0127] As described, air flowing outside the lower garment 600 can be introduced into the interior of the lower garment 600 through the first set of holes 116 and the second set of holes 120. The rapidly flowing air then circulates around the wearer's body, thus helping to cool the wearer. This circulation of air within the garment enhances its breathability. The description of holes 116 and 120 also applies to holes 156 and 160 of fabric 150 and hole 178 of fabric 170.

[0128] In another embodiment, the garment may include a first set of perforations in one section and a second set of perforations in another section. The first set of perforations may have one or more properties different from the second set of perforations. In one example, the first set of perforations may have different dimensions compared to the second set of perforations, and therefore the airflow properties (e.g., air velocity) through the first set of perforations may differ from the airflow properties through the second set of perforations, which can achieve different cooling effects at different parts of the garment. The first set of perforations may each include a first hole and a second hole, such as hole 116a in the first knit layer 110 and second hole 120a in the second knit layer 112, both of which are as follows: Figure 1A In the fabric 100 shown, similarly, the second set of pore structures may each include a first pore and a second pore. Although the above example describes two sections, in some examples, garments may include more than two sections, each with a different pore structure.

[0129] In one example, the different sections of the garment may be formed integrally. For example, a first section having a first set of perforations and a second section having a second set of perforations may include a common yarn extending across the first and second sections on at least a first surface of the garment.

[0130] In another example, different sections can be formed by joining different fabrics together. For example, a first section can be formed from a first fabric having a first set of pore structures, and a second section can be formed from a second fabric having a second set of pore structures.

[0131] Turning Figure 7 The upper garment 700 is depicted as a shirt. In various respects, the upper garment 700 may be worn outside an inner layer (e.g., underwear worn for coverage, support, or other purposes). The inner layer may be associated only with a portion of the upper garment 700 (e.g., the chest area, etc.). Various aspects herein envision that the first set of holes and the second set of holes (e.g., 702 and 706) may be zoned based on, for example, the areas of the upper garment 700 associated with wearing an inner layer when the upper garment 700 is worn.

[0132] For example, the upper garment 700 may include a first set of perforations 702 and a second set of perforations 706. The first set of perforations 702 may be located in a first section 704 of the upper garment 700, and the second set of perforations 706 may be located in a second section 708 of the upper garment 700. As illustrated, the first section 704 is located in the chest area of ​​the upper garment 700, and the second section 708 is located in the sleeve area of ​​the upper garment 700.

[0133] Each of the first section 704 and the second section 708 may be made of fabrics such as fabric 100, 150, or 170. For the sake of simplicity, the structure of such fabrics will not be repeated here, but each such fabric may be used in the upper garment 700.

[0134] Although shown as spaced apart, the first section 704 and the second section 708 may be located adjacent to each other. Similarly, although depicted as two separate sections of the garment 700, in some aspects, the first section 704 or the second section 708 may comprise the entirety of the garment 700 except for the portion comprising the other section. In still other aspects, the garment 700 may include additional fabric to finish the garment beyond the first section 704 and the second section 708. Furthermore, the garment 700 may include multiple first sections 704 and / or multiple second sections 708.

[0135] In all respects, the first set of hole structures 702 may be larger than the second set of hole structures 706. Larger holes improve cooling when an inner layer is worn. In all respects, each of the first set of hole structures 702 includes a first hole passing through the first layer and a second hole passing through the second layer. Similarly, each of the second set of hole structures 706 includes a third hole passing through the first layer and a fourth hole passing through the second layer. In all respects, the first hole is larger than the third hole, and the second hole is larger than the fourth hole.

[0136] In another embodiment, the garment may include a first fabric in one section and a second fabric in another section. The first fabric may have one or more properties or structures different from the second fabric. In one example, the first fabric may include a knitted fabric, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, or a double-knitted fabric, while the second fabric may include one of fabric 100, fabric 150, or fabric 170. Although the above examples describe two sections, in some examples, the garment may include more than two sections, each with a different fabric.

[0137] In one example, the different sections of the garment may be formed integrally. For example, a first section having a first fabric and a second section having a second fabric may include a common yarn extending across the first and second sections on at least a first surface of the garment.

[0138] In another example, different sections can be formed by joining different fabrics together. For example, the first section can be formed from a first fabric, and the second section can be formed from a second fabric.

[0139] Figure 8 An example of an upper garment 800 is shown. The upper garment 800 is depicted as a shirt. In various respects, the upper garment 800 may be composed of two or more fabrics. Various aspects of this document envision a first fabric 802 and a second fabric 806 positioned in zones based on, for example, a heat distribution map and / or a perspiration distribution map of the human body. For example, the first fabric 802 may be present in a first zone 804, and the second fabric 806 may be present in a second zone 808, wherein the first zone 804 is associated with a lower perspiration zone of the human body, and the second zone 808 is associated with a higher perspiration zone of the human body.

[0140] The first fabric 802 may include a fabric having hydrophobic properties (such as those discussed above). In various aspects, the first fabric 802 may be a knitted fabric, a double-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, or a woven fabric. In various aspects, the first fabric 802 may include a durable water-repellent finishing agent applied to one surface. The hydrophobic properties of the first fabric 802 may cause the wearer's perspiration to move towards the less hydrophobic areas of the upper garment 800 (e.g., the second section 808).

[0141] The second fabric 806 may include any of fabrics 100, 150, or 170. For the sake of simplicity, the structure of such fabrics will not be repeated here, but each of these fabrics may be used in the upper garment 800. In all respects, the second layer of the second fabric 806 (e.g., 112, 154, 176) may have weaker hydrophobicity (or in other words, stronger hydrophilicity) than the first fabric 802. Thus, the second fabric 806 may absorb sweat more easily than the first fabric 802.

[0142] In various aspects, the upper garment 800 may include one or more first sections 804 and one or more second sections 808. For example, the depicted aspect includes a first section 804 that is laterally connected to a second section 808 on either side.

[0143] In various aspects, the first section 804 may be located adjacent to the second section 808. For example, the first fabric 802 may be connected to the second fabric 806. In various aspects, the first fabric 802 and the second fabric 806 are connected at a seam 810. The seam 810 may be formed by sewing, bonding, welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding), fusion, or other joining processes. In various aspects, the edges of the first fabric 802 and the edges of the second fabric 806 may be folded outward away from the inside of the garment being constructed to form the seam 810, which may enhance wearer comfort at the seam 810.

[0144] refer to Figure 9 The diagram illustrates a lower garment 900. The lower garment 900 may include trousers, shorts, skirts, etc. Therefore, it is envisioned that the lower garment 900 may include a first set of perforated structures 902 and a second set of perforated structures 906, which are positioned based on, for example, the partitioning of the inner layer when the lower garment 900 is worn. Thus, the first set of perforated structures 902 is located in the first partition 904, and the second set of perforated structures 906 is located in the second partition 908. Apart from this, the lower garment 900 is similar to the upper garment 700, and it is unnecessary to repeat references to each variant of the upper garment 700 discussed herein.

[0145] refer to Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a lower garment 1000. The lower garment 1000 may include trousers, shorts, skirts, etc. In various aspects, the lower garment 1000 may be composed of two or more fabrics (e.g., a first fabric 1002 and a second fabric 1006). It is envisioned that the first fabric 1002 and the second fabric 1006 are positioned in sections based on, for example, a thermal distribution map and / or a perspiration distribution map of the human body. Therefore, the first fabric 1002 may be positioned in a first section 1004, and the second fabric 1006 may be positioned in a second section 1008. The first section 1004 is shown located along the inner seam of the lower garment 1000, while the second section 1008 is shown located in the pelvic region of the lower garment 1000. In various aspects, the first section 1004 and the second section 1008 are adjacent, such that the first fabric 1002 and the second fabric 1006 are joined at seam 1010. In addition, the lower garment 1000 is similar to the upper garment 800, and there is no need to refer again to each of the variations discussed in the upper garment 800.

[0146] Figure 11 A flowchart depicts an example method 1100 for manufacturing a knitted spacer fabric (such as knitted spacer fabric 100). At step 1110, a first plurality of yarns (such as a first plurality of yarns 111) are knitted to form a first knitted layer (such as a first knitted layer 110). Knitting the first knitted layer further includes knitting into a first set of holes (such as a first set of holes 116), wherein each hole in the first set of holes has a first opening size. The first set of holes can be knitted using, for example, a transfer knitting process. In the example, the first plurality of yarns may be selected to be relatively hydrophilic, such that the yarns absorb moisture, for example, in the form of sweat. The first plurality of yarns may include natural yarns, semi-synthetic yarns, and / or synthetic yarns (including recycled yarns).

[0147] At step 1112, a second plurality of yarns (such as second plurality of yarns 113) are knitted to form a second knitted layer (such as second knitted layer 112). Knitting the second knitted layer further includes knitting into a second set of holes (such as second set of holes 120). The second set of holes can be knitted using, for example, a transfer stitch technique. Each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a hole in the first set of holes. Furthermore, each hole in the second set of holes has a second opening size that is smaller than the first opening size. In the example, the second plurality of yarns may be selected to be relatively more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns, such that the second plurality of yarns can “push” moisture in the form of sweat toward the first knitted layer. The second plurality of yarns may include natural yarns, semi-synthetic yarns, and / or synthetic yarns (including recycled yarns).

[0148] At step 1114, the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer are connected to each other using multiple connecting yarns (such as multiple connecting yarns 114). The connecting yarns may be selected to have moisture-wicking properties and may include natural yarns, semi-synthetic yarns and / or synthetic yarns (including recycled yarns).

[0149] Method 1100 may also include one or more post-knitting treatments. For example, after the knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above, the knitted spacer fabric may be heat-set into a desired configuration, shape, or position. Heat setting may retain the first set of holes and / or the second set of holes in the desired position, shape, or configuration.

[0150] Another example of post-knitting processing includes stretching the knitted spacer fabric to a desired configuration, shape, or position after the knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above. Stretching can open the first or second set of holes to a desired size, shape, or position.

[0151] Another example of post-knitting treatment includes applying a coating to one or more surfaces of the first and second knitted layers of the spacer fabric after the knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above. This coating may provide the treated surface with increased or decreased hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties, which can promote the moisture-wicking properties described above.

[0152] Another example of post-knitting treatment includes molding the knitted spacer fabric (with or without the application of heat and / or pressure) after the knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above to form patterns, recesses, raised structures, or other surface features on one or more surfaces of the first and second knitted layers of the spacer fabric. Patterns can provide aesthetic properties to the treated surface. Recesses (especially on the inner surface of the knitted spacer fabric) can reduce contact between the wearer's skin surface and the knitted spacer fabric, thereby reducing cling. Raised structures (especially on the inner surface of the knitted spacer fabric) can form a gap between the knitted spacer fabric and the wearer's skin surface to promote airflow between the two and also reduce cling.

[0153] Another example of post-knitting treatment includes sublimation printing on the knitted spacer fabric following the knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above. Sublimation printing on the knitted spacer fabric can enhance the aesthetic quality of the fabric by incorporating color or design elements on one or more surfaces of the knitted spacer fabric (e.g., the outer surface).

[0154] Although described as individual knitting post-treatments, in some respects, two or more knitting post-treatments may be applied to the knitted spacer fabric after knitting steps 1110, 1112, and 1114 discussed above. Consider any combination of knitting post-treatments described above.

[0155] Method 1100 may further include: forming a knitted spacer fabric into garments, such as upper garment 500 and / or lower garment 600. When incorporated into the garment, a first knitted layer forms the outermost or outermost surface of the garment, and a second knitted layer forms the innermost or innermost surface of the garment.

[0156] Now refer to Figures 12 to 15 Other aspects of upper garments constructed from knitted spacer fabrics are described here. As discussed here, the stiffness of the fabric's yarns determines how much the fabric drapes when worn by a wearer. Also as discussed here, stiffer yarns can facilitate airflow through the fabric. However, using stiffer yarns to create a fabric with less drape can lead to other less desirable effects. For example, stiff fabrics tend to wrinkle at the elbow crease due to bending and stretching of the arms. In another example, stiff fabrics tend to resist bending and conform to body movement. When the arms are raised, the garment may not flow or stretch to accommodate the movement, resulting in the entire garment being pulled upwards rather than allowing for localized stretching. Therefore, using stiffer yarns can result in undesirable wrinkling or stretching of the fabric, which can cause discomfort or an unsightly appearance on the wearer.

[0157] One way to eliminate unwanted wrinkles is to remove portions of the garment that bear the compressive forces (e.g., at the flexion of the elbow when bent). For example, a portion of the fabric can be removed so that the garment experiences only a reduced amount of compressive force at the flexion of the elbow, near the wearer's elbow. In another example, the removed portion of fabric can be large enough to eliminate all the compressive forces that the garment would otherwise experience at the elbow, near the wearer's elbow.

[0158] Similarly, one way to address undesirable upward pulling is to remove parts of the garment through which tension is transmitted. For example, a section of fabric can be removed so that when the wearer raises their arms, tension is not transmitted from the arm portion of the garment to the torso.

[0159] In some examples, gaps are formed at strategic locations within the fabric. In some aspects, gaps can be cut from the fabric. In others, garments are formed with the gaps integrated into them. Additionally, a second fabric can be incorporated into the gaps. For example, a corner structure can be formed. In some aspects, a second fabric can be attached to the main fabric to form a finished garment.

[0160] Turn now Figure 12 The text describes an upper garment 1200. The upper garment 1200 includes a torso portion 1202, a left arm portion 1204 extending from the torso portion 1202, and a right arm portion 1206 extending from the torso portion 1202. The upper garment 1200 may be made of any fabric described herein (e.g., knitted spaced fabric, double-knitted fabric, non-woven fabric, etc.). The upper garment 1200 may be made of any yarn having any stiffness described herein.

[0161] To reduce or eliminate wrinkles around the elbows, the left arm portion 1204 and the right arm portion 1206 may each include a stress-relief section 1208. Each stress-relief section 1208 may include an opening in the left arm portion 1204 and the right arm portion 1206. According to some aspects, the opening may be integrally formed in the upper garment 1200. In other aspects, the opening may be cut from the upper garment 1200. In some examples, the opening may include a ventilation section.

[0162] For reference Figures 12 to 15 The term "opening" used here refers to a stress-relief zone or ventilation zone, which is several orders of magnitude larger than the tiny gaps typically formed between loops in a traditional knitted structure. Similarly, see reference... Figures 12 to 15 The "opening" is several orders of magnitude larger than the opening size of the first or second set of holes. For example, Figures 12 to 15 The opening in the middle can be at least three times the opening size of the first set of holes.

[0163] Stress-relief zones 1208 are located in the areas of the left arm portion 1204 and the right arm portion 1206 associated with the bends of the wearer's left and right elbows. For example, stress-relief zones 1208 may have a center line 1210 extending in a lateral-to-inward direction and bisecting the stress-relief zone 1208. In various aspects, when the upper garment 1200 is worn, the center line 1210 may be aligned with the wearer's elbow crease. Stress-relief zones 1208 may include a periphery 1212, a nearest torso point 1214, and a farthest torso point 1216. In various aspects, the nearest torso point 1214 is offset upward and proximally along the arm portion, and the farthest torso point 1216 is offset downward and distally along the arm portion, both within 0.5 inches to 3 inches of the center line 1210.

[0164] In some respects, the stress-relief zone 1208 has an elliptical shape. In other respects, the stress-relief zone 1208 has a circular shape. In still other respects, the stress-relief zone 1208 has different regular or irregular shapes.

[0165] Setting an opening at the stress-relief zone 1208 reduces or eliminates the compressive force present in the garment 1200 when the wearer bends or flexes their arm at the elbow, which in turn reduces or eliminates wrinkling that may otherwise occur in such zones.

[0166] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The image depicts an upper garment 1200 having a left arm portion 1204 and a right arm portion 1206 raised relative to the torso portion 1202. In this view, only a portion of the stress-relief zones 1208 are shown of the upper garment 1200. Furthermore, the upper garment 1200 also includes a second set of stress-relief zones 1218 located in the armpit area 1220.

[0167] The second set of stress-relief zones 1218 may also include openings formed in the bodice 1200. In some aspects, these openings may be integrally formed in the bodice 1200. In other aspects, these openings may be cut from the bodice 1200. In still other aspects, these openings may include seam openings intentionally left in the left seam 1222 and right seam 1224. Any combination of the above is contemplated.

[0168] Positioning the opening in the armpit area 1220 reduces or eliminates tension that may occur in such areas when the wearer raises their arms overhead. Reducing or eliminating such tension may reduce or eliminate displacement of the torso portion 1202 when the arms are raised overhead (e.g., by pulling). In other words, the torso portion of the garment, having the stiffness associated with the yarn discussed herein, will not lift upwards when the wearer raises their arms overhead; instead, the sleeves will flip upwards like a hinge.

[0169] Therefore, the left arm portion 1204 and the right arm portion 1206 may only be partially connected to the torso portion 1202 (e.g., at the left seam 1222 and the right seam 1224). The second set of stress-relief portions 1218 may include a periphery 1226. The periphery 1226 may be partially defined by the unattached edge 1228 of the torso portion 1202 and partially defined by the unattached edge 1230 of the respective arm portion (e.g., 1206).

[0170] Although described as having both a first set of stress-relief zones 1208 and a second set of stress-relief zones 1218, other aspects of the upper garment 1200 may include only one set or the other set.

[0171] Now for reference Figure 15 The text describes upper body clothing 1500. Except as noted below, upper body clothing 1500 is substantially the same as upper body clothing 1200. Upper body clothing 1500 includes a torso portion 1502, a left arm portion (not shown), and a right arm portion 1506. Figure 15 In the upper garment 1500, the right arm portion 1506 is raised relative to the torso portion 1502. The upper garment 1500 also includes a second set of stress-relief sections 1518. However, unlike the stress-relief sections 1218, the stress-relief sections 1518 are filled with a second fabric 1540 and are larger in size. The second fabric 1540 can be attached to the periphery 1526 of the stress-relief sections 1518. The stiffness of the second fabric 1540 can be lower than that of the fabrics constituting the rest of the upper garment 1500 (e.g., knitted spacer fabric, double-knitted fabric, non-woven fabric, etc.). The second fabric 1540, with its lower relative stiffness, can still reduce or eliminate displacement (e.g., pulling) of the torso portion 1502 when the arm is raised overhead, while also providing enhanced coverage for the upper garment 1500.

[0172] Although not depicted, the upper garment 1500 may also include stress-relief sections in the elbow area adjacent to the corresponding arm portion. These stress-relief sections may also include inserts of a second fabric to fill openings in the arm portion. It is further envisioned that some aspects may include a second fabric in one set of stress-relief sections (e.g., 1208) while not including a second fabric in another set of stress-relief sections (e.g., 1218).

[0173] Although the second fabric 1540 has been described in terms of relative stiffness, other aspects envision that this different fabric may have other properties different from the main fabric. For example, the second fabric may have better drape than the main fabric. In another example, the second fabric may be a lighter fabric compared to the main fabric. In any of these examples, the second fabric may still reduce or eliminate stress (e.g., tension or compressive force) present in stress-relief zones when the wearer bends or raises their arms.

[0174] As discussed in this article and as... Figure 16 As shown, the knitted spacer fabric 1600 can be warp-knitted. That is, the first knitted layer, the second knitted layer, and multiple connecting yarns can be produced on a warp-knitting machine. The first set of holes in the first knitted layer and the second set of holes in the second knitted layer can be formed integrally. Producing the knitted spacer fabric 1600 in this way significantly reduces production costs and shortens the amount of time required for production.

[0175] Producing a knitted spacer fabric on a warp knitting machine results in a knitted spacer fabric 1600 having a longitudinal direction (e.g., the length of the fabric roll) indicated by arrow 1602 and a transverse direction (e.g., the width of the fabric roll) indicated by arrow 1604. The knitted spacer fabric 1600 may include the knitted spacer fabric 100 described above, and for the sake of brevity, this description will not be repeated here. The knitted spacer fabric 1600 may include a plurality of rows of 1606 pairs of holes (e.g., holes from a first set of holes and hole pairs from a second set of holes) extending across the knitted spacer fabric 1600 in the transverse direction. The knitted spacer fabric 1600 may include a plurality of rows of 1608 pairs of holes extending across the knitted spacer fabric 1600 in the longitudinal direction. Adjacent rows of holes in the longitudinal direction may be offset from each other in the transverse direction to provide more pairs of holes across the knitted spacer fabric 1600.

[0176] As discussed above, the holes in both the first group and the second group can have various shapes. Figure 16 The illustrated holes have an oblong shape, with a long axis in the longitudinal direction and a short axis in the transverse direction. Therefore, the hole pair presents an oblong funnel structure in the knitted spacer fabric 1600. The connecting yarns of the knitted spacer fabric 1600 may define an inclined edge 1610 between the first and second knitted layers of the knitted spacer fabric 1600.

[0177] like Figure 16As illustrated, at the center of the hole pair along the longitudinal direction, the inclined edge 1610 may be steeper (i.e., the connecting yarn may be closer to being perpendicular to the first knit layer), while at the front and rear of the hole pair along the longitudinal direction, the inclined edge 1610 may be gentler (i.e., the connecting yarn may be further away from being perpendicular to the first knit layer). In other words, at the front and rear of the hole pair, the transverse vector length of the inclined edge 1610 (and / or the connecting yarn) is greater than the transverse vector length at the center of the hole pair.

[0178] In all respects, when constructing garments from any of the fabrics described herein (e.g., fabrics 100, 150, 170, 1600, etc.), the orientation of the first set of holes (e.g., holes 116, 156, 178, etc.) and the second set of holes (e.g., holes 120, 160, etc.) can provide advantages. For example, when the first set of holes (e.g., holes 116, 156, 178, etc.) and the second set of holes (e.g., holes 120, 160, etc.) are oblong, it is advantageous to orient the long axis of the holes in the garment vertically when the garment is in the wearing state. This orientation can suppress hole sagging (e.g., such as at peripheral edges). Thus, in the example where the knitted spacer fabric is warp-knitted, the longitudinal direction of the knitted spacer fabric is aligned with the vertical direction of the garment in the wearing state.

[0179] For example, in bodice garments, the long axis of the hole (or the longitudinal direction of the knitted spacer fabric) can be oriented such that it extends from the neck opening to the waist opening. Similarly, in lower garments, for example, the long axis of the hole (or the longitudinal direction of the knitted spacer fabric) can be oriented such that it extends from the waist opening to the leg opening. Because the knitted spacer fabric is a substantially flat sheet of material, and garments formed from knitted spacer fabric are not perfect cylinders (i.e., garments have an irregular three-dimensional shape), not all the long axes (or all the longitudinal directions) of the hole will be perpendicular to the neck opening or the waist opening in the finished garment. Even if there is such a slight misalignment of the knitted spacer fabric near a portion of the garment's opening, the knitted spacer fabric as a whole will still maintain the long axis of the hole (or the longitudinal direction of the knitted spacer fabric) in an orientation that will resist the hole sagging.

[0180] In some aspects, the connecting yarns that interlock with adjacent holes in the first layer and are visible through such holes can extend to different lengths. For example, the first set of connecting yarns can extend from a position adjacent to the periphery of the corresponding hole in the first layer to a position adjacent to the second periphery of the corresponding hole in the second layer. Continuing this example, the second set of connecting yarns can extend from a position adjacent to the periphery of the corresponding hole in the first layer to a position on the second layer that is not immediately adjacent to the second periphery of the corresponding hole in the second layer (but still visible through the hole in the first layer). In aspects where the holes in the first layer have an elongated oval shape, the distance extended by the first set of connecting yarns can be shorter than that of the second set of connecting yarns. In some examples, the connecting yarns can extend across the fabric in a transverse direction. In some examples, connecting yarns located above or below the corresponding hole in the second layer in a longitudinal direction and visible through the hole in the first layer can extend to a dividing line on the second layer. The connecting yarns in this above or below area can extend from a position adjacent to the first periphery of the hole in the first layer to the dividing line. The dividing line can be the center line of the hole in the first layer. For example, a hole extending continuously through the fabric (e.g., a hole in the first layer of the fabric's thickness extending to a hole in the second layer) can be presented as a mirror image across the dividing line in the transverse direction. In some aspects, the dividing line is a row of loops in the second layer, wherein each connecting yarn in the connecting yarns interlocks with each other in a region located above or below the hole in the second layer in the longitudinal direction. Since the shape of the hole in the first layer can have a periphery spaced at different distances from the dividing line, the different connecting yarns interlocking with each other along the periphery can extend to different distances into the second layer.

[0181] The following clauses represent exemplary aspects of the concepts envisioned herein. Any of the following clauses may be combined in a dependent manner to be subordinate to one or more other clauses. Furthermore, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that explicitly rely on preceding clauses) may be combined while remaining within the scope of the aspects envisioned herein. The following clauses are illustrative and not restrictive.

[0182] Clause 1. A knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer including a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer including a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, the second set of holes having a second opening size different from the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0183] Clause 2. The knitted spacer fabric as described in Clause 1, wherein the second plurality of yarns is more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns.

[0184] Clause 3. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 2, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0185] Clause 4. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns have moisture-wicking properties.

[0186] Clause 5. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0187] Clause 6. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the plurality of connecting yarns.

[0188] Clause 7. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

[0189] Clause 8. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises yarns based on natural fibers or yarns based on keratin fibers.

[0190] Clause 9. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein the first opening size is at least about 1.5 to 2 times the second opening size.

[0191] Clause 10. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the first opening size comprises a size between about 5 mm and about 22 mm, and the second opening size comprises a size between about 2 mm and about 10 mm.

[0192] Clause 11. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the first opening size includes a first area and the second opening size includes a second area, the second area being smaller than the first area.

[0193] Clause 12. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein each hole in the first group of holes is spaced apart from an adjacent hole by a first distance of about 2 mm to about 8 mm, and each hole in the second group of holes is spaced apart from an adjacent hole by a second distance of about 4 mm to about 7 mm.

[0194] Clause 13. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 12, wherein the first knitted layer has a pore density of about 1.5 pores to about 5.0 pores per cm², and the second knitted layer has a pore density of about 1.0 pores to about 5.0 pores per cm².

[0195] Clause 14. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 13, the knitted spacer fabric further comprising a first section and a second section, wherein at least one of the size, spacing, density, shape or alignment of the first set of holes and the second set of holes is different between the first section and the second section.

[0196] Clause 15. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 14, wherein the first section is located adjacent to the peripheral edge of the fabric, and the second section is located on the side of the first section opposite to the peripheral edge.

[0197] Clause 16. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 15, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first set of holes to a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second set of holes, such that the portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first hole.

[0198] Clause 17. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 16, wherein the first set of holes has a first shape and the second set of holes has a second shape.

[0199] Clause 18. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 17, wherein the first shape is one of an ellipse, a circle, a rectangle, an oval, an oblong or a spindle shape, and the second shape is one of an ellipse, a circle, a rectangle, an oval, an oblong or a spindle shape.

[0200] Clause 19. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 18, wherein the second shape is different from the first shape.

[0201] Clause 20. A garment comprising: a knitted spacer fabric forming one or more portions of the garment, the knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes having a second opening size, the second opening size being smaller than the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0202] Clause 21. The clothing as described in Clause 20, wherein the clothing includes either upper body clothing or lower body clothing.

[0203] Clause 22. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 20 to 21, wherein the upper body garment includes one of a shirt, vest, or sleeveless top.

[0204] Clause 23. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 20 to 22, wherein the lower body clothing includes trousers or shorts.

[0205] Clause 24. The garment according to any one of Clauses 20 to 23, wherein the first knitted layer forms the outermost surface of the garment, and wherein the second knitted layer forms the innermost surface of the garment.

[0206] Clause 25. Garment according to any one of Clauses 20 to 24, wherein each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes.

[0207] Clause 26. Garment according to any one of Clauses 20 to 25, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns has moisture-wicking properties.

[0208] Clause 27. Garment according to any one of Clauses 20 to 26, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

[0209] Clause 28. Garment according to any one of Clauses 20 to 27, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises cellulose fibers or keratin fibers.

[0210] Clause 29. A knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer including a first plurality of yarns and a first set of holes; a second knitted layer including a second plurality of yarns and a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes such that a continuous opening is formed through the thickness of the knitted spacer fabric; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0211] Clause 30. The knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 29, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, and wherein each hole in the first set of holes and each hole in the second set of holes are elongated and oriented such that the long axis is parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0212] Clause 31. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 30, wherein each hole in the first set of holes has a first opening size, and each hole in the second set of holes has a second opening size, the second opening size being different from the first opening size.

[0213] Clause 32. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 31, wherein each successive opening gradually tapers from the first layer to the second layer.

[0214] Clause 33. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 32, wherein each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes.

[0215] Clause 34. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 33, wherein a first portion of the connecting yarn extends from a first periphery of a first hole in a first set of holes to a second periphery of a second hole in a second set of holes, wherein a second portion of the connecting yarn extends from the first periphery to the second knitted layer, wherein each of the first portion of the connecting yarn and the second portion of the connecting yarn is visible from the first layer side of the knitted spacer fabric through the first hole.

[0216] Clause 35. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 34, the knitted spacer fabric further comprising a first section and a second section, wherein in the first section, a first length of one or more first segments of the connecting yarn extending from the first layer to the second layer differs from a second length of one or more second segments of the connecting yarn extending from the first layer to the second layer in the second section.

[0217] Clause 36. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 35, wherein each of the first and second sections is located in the continuous opening.

[0218] Clause 37. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 36, wherein the knitted spacer fabric is an integral knitted fabric.

[0219] Clause 38. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 37, wherein each hole in the first set of holes and each hole in the second set of holes have the same size and shape, such that each successive opening has a uniform thickness along the z-direction.

[0220] Clause 39. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 38, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has an average thickness in the range of about 1.05 mm to about 12.7 mm.

[0221] Clause 40. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 39, wherein the knitted spacer fabric comprises a portion of the garment.

[0222] Clause 41. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 40, wherein the first layer forms the outer side of the garment and the second layer forms the skin-facing side of the garment.

[0223] Clause 42. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 41, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns have a hydrophilic finishing agent.

[0224] Clause 43. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 42, the knitted spacer fabric further comprising a hydrophilic finishing agent on one or more of a first side and a second side of the fabric, the first side comprising the first plurality of yarns and the second side comprising the second plurality of yarns.

[0225] Clause 44. The knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 29, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprise polyester fibers, recycled polyester fibers, polyamide, or recycled polyamide.

[0226] Clause 45. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 43, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprise natural or semi-synthetic fibers.

[0227] Clause 46. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 29 to 44, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprise cellulose fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0228] Clause 47. An integral knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer including a first plurality of yarns; a second knitted layer including a second plurality of yarns; a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other; and a plurality of continuous openings, each of the plurality of continuous openings extending from the first knitted layer to the second knitted layer and through the thickness of the fabric.

[0229] Clause 48. The integrated knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 47, wherein each of the continuous openings has a first periphery at the first knitted layer and a second periphery at the second knitted layer, the second periphery being smaller than the first periphery.

[0230] Clause 49. An integrally knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 47 to 48, wherein when viewed from the first knitted layer side of the integrally knitted spacer fabric, the first periphery and the second periphery are visible through the continuous opening.

[0231] Clause 50. An integral knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 47 to 49, wherein the continuous opening further comprises a sidewall, the sidewall comprising a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extending between the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer.

[0232] Clause 51. An integrally knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 47 to 50, wherein the continuous opening includes a nozzle that increases the flow rate of air flowing through the nozzle.

[0233] Clause 52. A method of manufacturing a knitted spacer fabric, the method comprising: knitting a first plurality of yarns to form a first knitted layer, wherein knitting the first plurality of yarns to form the first knitted layer comprises: forming a first set of holes having a first opening size; knitting a second plurality of yarns to form a second knitted layer, wherein knitting the second plurality of yarns to form the second knitted layer comprises: forming a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, the second set of holes having a second opening size, the second opening size being smaller than the first opening size; and connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other using a plurality of connecting yarns.

[0234] Clause 53. The method of manufacturing the knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 52, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0235] Clause 54. A method of manufacturing the knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 52 to 53, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns have moisture-wicking properties.

[0236] Clause 55. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 54, the method further comprising: performing a post-knitting treatment on the knitted spacer fabric.

[0237] Clause 56. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 55, wherein the knitting post-treatment comprises: heat setting the knitted spacer fabric.

[0238] Clause 57. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 56, wherein the post-knitting treatment comprises: applying a coating to one or more of the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer of the knitted spacer fabric.

[0239] Clause 58. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 57, wherein the post-knitting treatment comprises: sublimation printing on one or more of the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer of the knitted spacer fabric.

[0240] Clause 59. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 58, wherein the knitting post-processing comprises: molding the knitted spacer fabric.

[0241] Clause 60. The method according to any one of Clauses 52 to 59, wherein molding the knitted spacer fabric comprises: applying one or more of heat and pressure to the knitted spacer fabric using a mold to produce one or more of surface patterns, recesses and protrusions on one or more of the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer.

[0242] Clause 61. A knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes having a second opening size, the second opening size being different from the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first set of holes to a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second set of holes, such that the portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first hole.

[0243] Clause 62. The knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 61, wherein each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes.

[0244] Clause 63. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 62, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns provides an inclined surface between the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer.

[0245] Clause 64. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 63, wherein the inclined surface extends from the periphery of the first hole to the periphery of the second hole, wherein the inclined surface forms a first angle with the first knitted layer at a first location along the periphery of the first hole, and wherein the inclined surface forms a second angle with the first knitted layer at a second location along the periphery of the first hole.

[0246] Clause 65. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 64, wherein the second plurality of yarns is more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns.

[0247] Clause 66. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 65, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0248] Clause 67. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 66, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns have moisture-wicking properties.

[0249] Clause 68. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 67, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

[0250] Clause 69. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 68, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises one or more of cotton and wool.

[0251] Clause 70. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 61 to 69, wherein the first opening size is at least about 1.5 to 2 times the second opening size.

[0252] Clause 71. A knitted spacer fabric comprising: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes having a second opening size, the second opening size being smaller than the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0253] Clause 72. The knitted spacer fabric according to Clause 71, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a denier of at least 70D.

[0254] Clause 73. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 72, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a denier ranging from about 70D to about 160D.

[0255] Clause 74. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 73, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a denier of about 80D.

[0256] Clause 75. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 74, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a tensile strength in the range of about 3.0 grams to about 5.0 grams per denier.

[0257] Clause 76. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 75, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a tensile strength in the range of about 3.6 grams to about 4.8 grams per denier.

[0258] Clause 77. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 76, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a tensile strength of about 4.0 grams per denier.

[0259] Clause 78. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 77, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises multifilament yarns in the range of about 0.5 to about 2.5 denier per filament.

[0260] Clause 79. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 78, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises multifilament yarns with a denier of less than 0.75 per filament.

[0261] Clause 80. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 79, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises multifilament yarns with a denier of about 1.04 per filament.

[0262] Clause 81. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 80, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises multifilament yarns with a denier of about 2.08 per filament.

[0263] Clause 82. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 81, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a moisture regain percentage ranging from about 9.0% to about 13.0%.

[0264] Clause 83. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 82, wherein at least one of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises yarns with a moisture regain percentage of about 10%.

[0265] Clause 84. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 83, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a stiffness in the range of about 0.02 kgf to about 0.60 kgf as measured according to ASTM D4032-2008.

[0266] Clause 85. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 84, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a stiffness in the range of about 0.07 kgf to about 0.13 kgf as measured according to ASTM D4032-2008.

[0267] Clause 86. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 85, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a stiffness in the range of about 0.09 kgf to about 0.11 kgf as measured according to ASTM D4032-2008.

[0268] Clause 87. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 86, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a stiffness of about 0.101 kgf as measured according to ASTM D4032-2008.

[0269] Clause 88. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 87, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness in the range of about 1.10 mm to about 1.60 mm as measured according to ASTM D1777-2019 Option 5.

[0270] Clause 89. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 88, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness in the range of about 1.35 mm to about 1.42 mm as measured according to ASTM D1777-2019 Option 5.

[0271] Clause 90. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 89, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness of about 1.38 mm as measured according to ASTM D1777-2019 Option 5.

[0272] Clause 91. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 90, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness in the range of about 1.50 mm to about 2.10 mm as measured according to ISO 5084-1996.

[0273] Clause 92. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 91, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness in the range of about 1.70 mm to about 1.80 mm as measured according to ISO 5084-1996.

[0274] Clause 93. The knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 92, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a thickness of about 1.75 mm as measured according to ISO 5084-1996.

[0275] Clause 94. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 93, wherein the second plurality of yarns has an instantaneous heat transfer value in the range of 0.10 W / cm² to 0.30 W / cm².

[0276] Clause 95. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 94, wherein the second plurality of yarns has an instantaneous heat transfer value in the range of 0.14 W / cm² to 0.235 W / cm².

[0277] Clause 96. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 95, wherein the second plurality of yarns has an instantaneous heat transfer value of about 0.25 W / cm².

[0278] Clause 97. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 96, wherein the corresponding holes in the first set of holes and the second set of holes are laterally aligned.

[0279] Clause 98. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 97, wherein the first opening size is larger than the second opening size, such that when the knitted spacer fabric is viewed from one side of the first knitted layer, at least a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first set of openings.

[0280] Clause 99. A garment comprising a knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 71 to 98.

[0281] Clause 100. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 99, wherein said clothing includes upper garments.

[0282] Clause 101. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 100, wherein the upper garment includes shirts, vests, or sleeveless tops.

[0283] Clause 102. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 101, wherein said clothing includes lower garments.

[0284] Clause 103. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 102, wherein the lower garment includes shorts or trousers.

[0285] Clause 104. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 103, wherein the clothing comprises both an upper body portion and a lower body portion.

[0286] Clause 105. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 71 to 104, wherein the upper body portion comprises a shirt, vest, or sleeveless top, and the lower body portion comprises shorts or trousers.

[0287] Clause 106. A garment comprising: a first region of the garment, the first region comprising a knitted spacer fabric; and a second region of the garment, the second region comprising the knitted spacer fabric, wherein the first knitted spacer fabric comprises: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other, wherein the first knitted layer comprises a first set of holes in the first region having a first opening size, the first knitted layer comprises a second set of holes in the second region having a second opening size, the first opening size being larger than the second opening size, wherein the second knitted layer comprises a third set of holes in the first region having a third opening size, and the second knitted layer comprises a fourth set of holes in the second region having a fourth opening size, the third opening size being larger than the fourth opening size.

[0288] Clause 107. Clothing as described in Clause 106, wherein said clothing includes upper garments.

[0289] Clause 108. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 106 to 107, wherein the upper body garment includes one of a shirt, vest, or sleeveless top.

[0290] Clause 109. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 108, wherein the first region is associated with the chest area of ​​the upper garment and the second region is associated with the sleeve area of ​​the upper garment.

[0291] Clause 110. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 109, the garment further comprising a central area and a peripheral edge, wherein the first area is located in the central area and the second area is located between the first area and the peripheral edge.

[0292] Clause 111. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 106 to 110, wherein said clothing includes lower garments.

[0293] Clause 112. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 106 to 111, wherein the lower garment includes shorts or trousers.

[0294] Clause 113. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 112, wherein the first region is associated with the pelvic region of the lower garment and the second region is associated with the leg region of the lower garment.

[0295] Clause 114. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 113, the garment further comprising a central area and a peripheral edge, wherein the first area is located in the central area and the second area is located between the first area and the peripheral edge.

[0296] Clause 115. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 106 to 114, wherein the clothing comprises both an upper body portion and a lower body portion.

[0297] Clause 116. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 106 to 115, wherein the upper body portion comprises a shirt, vest, or sleeveless top, and the lower body portion comprises shorts or trousers.

[0298] Clause 117. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 116, wherein the first region is a region of the garment configured to be located above the underwear, and the second region is a second region of the garment configured not to be located above the underwear.

[0299] Clause 118. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 117, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first group of holes to a third position adjacent to a third hole in the third group of holes, such that the portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first hole, wherein a second portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second group of holes to a fourth position adjacent to a fourth hole in the fourth group of holes, such that the second portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the second hole.

[0300] Clause 119. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 118, wherein the first opening size is larger than the third opening size, and the second opening size is larger than the fourth opening size.

[0301] Clause 120. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 119, wherein each first hole in the first group of holes is aligned with a corresponding third hole in the third group of holes in the first region, wherein each hole in the second group of holes is aligned with a corresponding fourth hole in the fourth group of holes in the second region.

[0302] Clause 121. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 120, wherein the second plurality of yarns is more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns.

[0303] Clause 122. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 121, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0304] Clause 123. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 122, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns have moisture-wicking properties.

[0305] Clause 124. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 123, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

[0306] Clause 125. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 124, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises one or more of cotton and wool.

[0307] Clause 126. Garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 125, wherein the first opening size is equal to the third opening size, and the second opening size is equal to the fourth opening size.

[0308] Clause 127. The garment according to any one of Clauses 106 to 126, wherein the first region has a first stiffness and the second region has a second stiffness.

[0309] Clause 128. A garment comprising: a first fabric located in a first region of the garment; and a knitted spacer fabric located in a second region of the garment, the first fabric being coupled to the knitted spacer fabric, wherein the knitted spacer fabric comprises: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, the second set of holes having a second opening size different from the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

[0310] Clause 129. The garment as described in Clause 128, wherein the first fabric is a knitted fabric.

[0311] Clause 130. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 129, wherein the first fabric does not have the first set of holes or the second set of holes of the knitted spacer fabric.

[0312] Clause 131. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 130, wherein the first fabric has a first edge and the knitted spacer fabric has a second edge, wherein the first edge is connected to the second edge.

[0313] Clause 132. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 131, wherein the first edge is joined to the second edge at the seam.

[0314] Clause 133. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 132, wherein the first fabric is more hydrophobic than the second knitted layer of the knitted spacer fabric.

[0315] Clause 134. Garments according to any one of Clauses 128 to 133, wherein the first fabric comprises a cellulose fabric, the cellulose fabric being treated on the surface with a durable water-repellent finishing agent.

[0316] Clause 135. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 134, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0317] Clause 136. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 135, wherein the second region is associated with the high-perspiration zone of the garment.

[0318] Clause 137. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 136, wherein said clothing includes upper garments.

[0319] Clause 138. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 137, wherein the second region is associated with the underarm area of ​​the upper garment.

[0320] Clause 139. The garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 138, wherein the first region is associated with the inner torso area of ​​the upper garment and the second region is associated with the outer torso area of ​​the upper garment.

[0321] Clause 140. The garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 139, wherein the first region includes the outer region of the arm portion of the upper garment, and the second region includes the inner region of the arm portion of the upper garment.

[0322] Clause 141. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 140, wherein the upper garment includes a shirt.

[0323] Clause 142. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 141, wherein said clothing includes lower garments.

[0324] Clause 143. The garment pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 142, wherein the second region is associated with the pelvic region of the lower garment.

[0325] Clause 144. Clothing pursuant to any one of Clauses 128 to 143, wherein the lower garment includes trousers or shorts.

[0326] Clause 145. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 144, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first set of holes to a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second set of holes, such that the portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first hole.

[0327] Clause 146. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 145, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

[0328] Clause 147. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 146, wherein the plurality of connecting yarns have moisture-wicking properties.

[0329] Clause 148. Garments according to any one of Clauses 128 to 147, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

[0330] Clause 149. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 148, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises one or more of cotton and wool.

[0331] Clause 150. Garment according to any one of Clauses 128 to 149, wherein the first opening size is equal to the second opening size.

[0332] Clause 151. An upper garment comprising: a torso portion; a left arm portion extending from the torso portion; and a right arm portion extending from the torso portion, wherein the torso portion, the left arm portion, and the right arm portion each comprise a knitted spacer fabric, wherein the knitted spacer fabric comprises: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, the second set of holes having a second opening size different from the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other, and wherein the left arm portion and the right arm portion each comprise a stress-relieving zone.

[0333] Clause 152. The garment as described in Clause 151, wherein, when the garment is worn, each stress-relief zone is located on the left arm portion and the right arm portion, in a location adjacent to the area associated with the bend of the wearer's elbow.

[0334] Clause 153. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 152, wherein each stress relief zone is configured to release compressive forces borne in the area associated with the flexion of the wearer's elbow when the wearer bends or flexes his arm.

[0335] Clause 154. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 153, wherein each stress relief zone includes a cutout formed in each of the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0336] Clause 155. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 154, wherein the cut has a circular or elliptical shape.

[0337] Clause 156. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 155, wherein each stress relief zone includes an opening integrally formed in each of the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0338] Clause 157. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 156, wherein the opening is at least five times the size of any of the holes in the knitted spacer fabric.

[0339] Clause 158. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 157, wherein the opening is integrally formed in both the first knit layer and the second knit layer of the knitted spacer fabric.

[0340] Clause 159. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 158, wherein each stress relief zone extends at least 50% circumferentially along the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0341] Clause 160. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 159, wherein each stress-relief zone is located on the front side of the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0342] Clause 161. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 160, wherein the center line extending in the outer to inner direction of each stress relief zone is located adjacent to the positioning of the fold associated with the wearer's elbow.

[0343] Clause 162. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 161, wherein each stress relief zone comprises a proximal half and a distal half divided by the centerline.

[0344] Clause 163. The garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 162, wherein the nearest point of the proximal half is located about 0.5 inches to about 2 inches above the center line along the arm portion.

[0345] Clause 164. The garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 163, wherein the farthest point of the distal half is located approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 2 inches above the center line along the arm portion.

[0346] Clause 165. The garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 164, the garment further comprising a second fabric piece connected to the right arm portion at the periphery of the stress relief zone and a third fabric piece connected to the left arm portion at the periphery of the respective stress relief zone.

[0347] Clause 166. Garments according to any one of Clauses 151 to 165, wherein the second fabric piece and the third fabric piece each comprise the same type of fabric.

[0348] Clause 167. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 166, wherein the second and third fabric pieces have a lower stiffness than the knitted spacer fabric.

[0349] Clause 168. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 167, wherein, when the garment is worn, a stress-relief zone is located on each of the left and right arm portions in a region adjacent to the wearer's underarm area.

[0350] Clause 169. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 168, wherein the stress relief zone is located on the torso portion adjacent to the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0351] Clause 170. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 169, wherein a corresponding stress-relief zone located on the torso portion is aligned with a stress-relief zone located on the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0352] Clause 171. The garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 170, wherein the stress relief zone includes seam openings at a first seam connecting the left arm portion to the torso portion and a second seam connecting the right arm portion to the torso portion.

[0353] Clause 172. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 171, wherein each stress-relief zone is configured to release tension borne in the area associated with the wearer's armpit area when the wearer's arms are raised overhead.

[0354] Clause 173. Garment according to any one of Clauses 151 to 172, wherein each stress relief zone extends at least 50% circumferentially along the left arm portion and the right arm portion.

[0355] Clause 174. An upper garment comprising: a torso portion; a left arm portion extending from the torso portion; and a right arm portion extending from the torso portion, wherein the torso portion, the left arm portion, and the right arm portion each comprise a fabric, wherein the fabric comprises: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, wherein the upper garment includes one or more ventilation zones.

[0356] Clause 175. The upper garment as described in Clause 174, wherein the one or more ventilation zones comprise: a first ventilation opening located at the junction between the right arm portion and the torso portion; and a second ventilation opening located at the junction between the left arm portion and the torso portion.

[0357] Clause 176. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 174 to 175, wherein the one or more ventilation zones further comprises: a third ventilation opening located at the inner elbow portion of the right arm portion; and a fourth ventilation opening located at the inner elbow portion of the left arm portion.

[0358] Clause 177. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 174 to 176, the upper garment further comprising a second fabric attached to the upper garment at the one or more ventilation zones, wherein the fabric comprises the first fabric.

[0359] Clause 178. Upper garment according to any one of Clauses 174 to 177, wherein the stiffness of the second fabric is less than half that of the first fabric.

[0360] Clause 179. Upper garment according to any one of Clauses 174 to 178, wherein the average force of the second fabric is less than about 0.60 kgf.

[0361] Clause 180. The upper garment according to any one of Clauses 174 to 179, wherein the fabric further comprises: a second set of holes having a second opening size different from the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer to the second knitted layer.

[0362] Clause 181. A fabric comprising: a first layer formed of a first plurality of yarns or fibers, the first layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; and a second layer formed of a second plurality of yarns or fibers, the second layer including a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, the second set of holes having a second opening size different from the first opening size.

[0363] Clause 182. The fabric as described in Clause 181, wherein the first layer comprises one of a knitted structure, a woven structure, or a nonwoven structure.

[0364] Clause 183. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 182, wherein the second layer comprises one of a knitted structure, a woven structure, or a nonwoven structure.

[0365] Clause 184. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 183, wherein when the first layer and the second layer comprise a nonwoven construction, the first layer is secured to the second layer by fiber entanglement.

[0366] Clause 185. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 184, wherein when the first layer and the second layer comprise a knitted construction, the first layer is secured to the second layer by one of the connecting yarns or yarns transferred between the first layer and the second layer.

[0367] Clause 186. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 185, wherein when the first layer and the second layer include a woven construction, the first layer is interwoven with the second layer.

[0368] Clause 187. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 186, wherein the first layer is secured to the second layer by one or more of adhesives, glues, and sewing.

[0369] Clause 188. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 187, wherein the first layer is relatively more hydrophilic than the second layer.

[0370] Clause 189. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 181 to 188, wherein the second opening size is smaller than the first opening size.

[0371] Clause 190. A fabric comprising: a first layer formed of a first plurality of yarns or fibers, the first layer including a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first layer including a hole extending through the first layer, the hole having a first opening size at the first surface and a second opening size at the second surface, the second opening size being smaller than the first opening size; and a finishing agent applied to the second surface.

[0372] Clause 191. The fabric as described in Clause 190, wherein the first layer comprises one of a knitted structure, a woven structure, or a nonwoven structure.

[0373] Clause 192. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 190 to 191, wherein the first plurality of yarns or fibers comprises one or more of cotton and wool.

[0374] Clause 193. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 190 to 192, wherein the finishing agent is relatively more hydrophobic than the first layer.

[0375] Clause 194. Fabrics according to any one of Clauses 190 to 193, wherein the finishing agent comprises a durable water-repellent agent.

[0376] Clause 195. The fabric according to any one of Clauses 190 to 194, wherein the first opening size is about 1.5 to 2 times the second opening size.

[0377] Clause 196. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 19, the knitted spacer fabric further comprising one or more of a surface pattern in the XY plane, a recess along the Z direction, and a protrusion along the Z direction on one or more of the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer, wherein the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer substantially define the XY plane.

[0378] Clause 197. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 19 and 196, wherein one or more of the surface pattern, the recesses, and the protrusions are formed by a post-knitting process of applying one or more of heat and pressure to the knitted spacer fabric.

[0379] Clause 198. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 1 to 19 and 196 to 197, wherein at least one of the recesses and the protrusions is molded.

[0380] Clause 199. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 20 to 28, the knitted spacer fabric further comprising one or more of a surface pattern in the XY plane, a recess along the Z direction, and a protrusion along the Z direction on one or more of the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer, wherein the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer substantially define the XY plane.

[0381] Clause 200. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 20 to 28 and 199, wherein one or more of the surface pattern, the recesses, and the protrusions are formed by a post-knitting process of applying one or more of heat and pressure to the knitted spacer fabric.

[0382] Clause 201. A knitted spacer fabric according to any one of Clauses 20 to 28 and 199 to 200, wherein at least one of the recesses and the protrusions is molded.

[0383] Various aspects of this disclosure have been described in an illustrative and not restrictive manner. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art can develop alternative means to achieve the above improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0384] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations, and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the various figures need to be performed in the specific order described.

Claims

1. A knitted spacer fabric, the knitted spacer fabric comprising: A first knitted layer, the first knitted layer comprising a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer comprising a first set of holes, the first set of holes having a first opening size; The second knitted layer includes a second plurality of yarns and a second set of holes. Each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes. The second set of holes has a second opening size, which is different from the first opening size. And multiple connecting yarns, which connect the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

2. The knitted spacer fabric according to claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns and each of the plurality of connecting yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns.

3. The knitted spacer fabric according to claim 2, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the plurality of connecting yarns.

4. The knitted spacer fabric according to claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprises one or more of natural fibers and semi-synthetic fibers.

5. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of yarns comprises yarns based on natural fibers or yarns based on keratin fibers.

6. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 1, wherein the first opening size is at least about 1.5 to 2 times the second opening size.

7. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 1, wherein the first opening size comprises a size between about 5 mm and about 22 mm, and the second opening size comprises a size between about 2 mm and about 10 mm.

8. The knitted spacer fabric according to claim 1, wherein the first opening size includes a first area, and the second opening size includes a second area, the second area being smaller than the first area.

9. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 1, wherein each hole in the first group of holes is spaced apart from the adjacent hole by a first distance of about 2 mm to about 8 mm, and each hole in the second group of holes is spaced apart from the adjacent hole by a second distance of about 4 mm to about 7 mm.

10. The knitted spacer fabric according to claim 1, wherein the first knitted layer has a spacing of [missing information] cm. 2 A pore density of approximately 1.5 pores to approximately 5.0 pores, and the second knitted layer has a pore density of approximately 5.0 pores per cm. 2 Pore ​​density from approximately 1.0 pores to approximately 5.0 pores.

11. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 1, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first set of holes to a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second set of holes, such that the portion of the plurality of connecting yarns is visible through the first hole.

12. A garment, said garment comprising: A knitted spacer fabric, forming one or more parts of the garment, comprising: a first knitted layer formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes having a first opening size; a second knitted layer formed of a second plurality of yarns, the second knitted layer including a second set of holes having a second opening size, the second opening size being smaller than the first opening size; and a plurality of connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

13. The garment of claim 12, wherein the garment comprises either upper body garment or lower body garment.

14. The garment of claim 12, wherein the first knitted layer forms the outermost surface of the garment, and wherein the second knitted layer forms the innermost surface of the garment.

15. The garment of claim 12, wherein each hole in the second set of holes is axially aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes.

16. A knitted spacer fabric, said knitted spacer fabric comprising: A first knitted layer, the first knitted layer comprising a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer comprising a first set of holes; The second knitted layer includes a second plurality of yarns and a second set of holes, each hole in the second set of holes being aligned with a corresponding hole in the first set of holes, such that a continuous opening is formed through the thickness of the knitted spacer fabric. And multiple connecting yarns, which connect the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other.

17. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, and wherein each hole in the first set of holes and each hole in the second set of holes are elongated and oriented such that the long axis is parallel to the longitudinal direction, wherein each hole in the first set of holes has a first opening size, and each hole in the second set of holes has a second opening size, the second opening size being different from the first opening size.

18. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 17, wherein each successive opening gradually tapers from the first layer to the second layer.

19. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 17, wherein a first portion of the connecting yarn extends from a first periphery of a first hole in the first set of holes to a second periphery of a second hole in the second set of holes, wherein a second portion of the connecting yarn extends from the first periphery to the second knitted layer, wherein each of the first portion of the connecting yarn and the second portion of the connecting yarn is visible from the first layer side of the knitted spacer fabric through the first hole.

20. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, further comprising a first section and a second section, wherein in the first section a first length of one or more first segments of the connecting yarn extending from the first layer to the second layer differs from in the second section a second length of one or more second segments of the connecting yarn extending from the first layer to the second layer, wherein each of the first section and the second section is located in the continuous opening.

21. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein the knitted spacer fabric is an integral knitted fabric.

22. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein the knitted spacer fabric has an average thickness in the range of about 1.05 mm to about 12.7 mm.

23. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein the knitted spacer fabric comprises a portion of garment, wherein the first layer forms the outer side of the garment and the second layer forms the skin-facing side of the garment.

24. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprise polyester fibers, recycled polyester fibers, polyamide, or recycled polyamide.

25. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 16, wherein one or more of the first plurality of yarns, the second plurality of yarns, and the plurality of connecting yarns comprise cellulose fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers.

26. A knitted spacer fabric, the knitted spacer fabric comprising: A first knitted layer, the first knitted layer being formed of a first plurality of yarns, the first knitted layer including a first set of holes, the first set of holes having a first opening size; The second knitted layer is formed of a second plurality of yarns and includes a second set of holes having a second opening size that is different from the first opening size. And multiple connecting yarns, the multiple connecting yarns connecting the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer to each other, wherein a portion of the multiple connecting yarns extends from a first position adjacent to a first hole in the first group of holes to a second position adjacent to a second hole in the second group of holes, such that the portion of the multiple connecting yarns is visible through the first hole.

27. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 26, wherein a portion of the plurality of connecting yarns provides an inclined surface between the first knitted layer and the second knitted layer.

28. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 27, wherein the inclined surface extends from the periphery of the first hole to the periphery of the second hole, wherein the inclined surface forms a first angle with the first knitted layer at a first positioning along the periphery of the first hole, and wherein the inclined surface forms a second angle with the first knitted layer at a second positioning along the periphery of the first hole.

29. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 26, wherein the second plurality of yarns is more hydrophobic than the first plurality of yarns.

30. The knitted spacer fabric of claim 26, wherein the first plurality of yarns is more hydrophilic than the second plurality of yarns, and wherein the plurality of connecting yarns has moisture-wicking properties.

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