Knitted hosiery

Abstract

The invention relates to knitted hosiery (1) suitable for wearing as legwear. The knitted hosiery (1) has different properties in a first area (2) covering the leg than in a second area (3) covering at least the sole of the foot, yet it is easy to manufacture. The hosiery (1) is comfortable to wear and has a uniform, fine knit. For this purpose, the first area (2) and the second area (3) of the hosiery (1) are knitted together in a transition area (8) in such a way that they are connected. Additionally, the first area (2) has a higher stitch count than the second area (3) in order to achieve the desired properties of the hosiery (1).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to knitted hosiery for wearing as legwear. Knitted hosiery is a type of knitwear and has been known in a wide variety of forms for many years. It has been continuously developed to improve its feel, appearance, and function. However, particularly with sheer stockings, which are predominantly worn by women as legwear, a comfortable feel and a particularly fine, smooth, and high-quality appearance are still typically at odds.

[0002] US20130098118A1 discloses a sheer stocking that features a non-slip, moisture-regulating sock in the foot area. The sock is made of a different material than the other components of the sheer stocking. Preferably, the sock is made of cotton, and the adjoining leg section of the sheer stocking is made of nylon. Such a sheer stocking is intended to combine the appearance of nylon stockings with the slip resistance, moisture-regulating properties, and comfort of socks. The sock and the leg section of the sheer stocking are initially manufactured independently of each other and then joined together, for example, by sewing or gluing. The individual stitches of the sock and the leg section are not aligned in a specific order. The connection is therefore completely independent of the stitches of the sock and the leg section.While this is intended to make the sheer stocking particularly easy to manufacture, it requires additional steps in the production process to join the sock and leg section. Another disadvantage arises from the extra seam created when joining the sock and leg section. This additional seam can cause discomfort when worn.

[0003] US6735988B1 discloses a knitted sock with a foot section and a leg section, the foot section and leg section being knitted with different yarns. This allows the sock to have different properties in the foot and leg sections. For example, the yarn in the foot section can be a yarn with hydrophilic properties, such as cotton yarn. Alternatively, it can be a yarn with moisture-wicking properties. The sock is knitted as a tube, which is sewn closed at the foot section. For this purpose, the sock has a seam on its underside, which covers the sole of the foot when worn. This seam extends along the underside of the sock from the toe to the heel. When wearing the sock, this seam on the sole of the foot can cause discomfort or even skin irritation.Furthermore, problems can arise during knitting if the yarns used for the foot and leg sections differ too greatly in their material properties. The change in yarn can then lead to an uneven or unsightly stitch pattern at the transition between the foot and leg sections.

[0004] US 2010 / 125933 A1 discloses a knitted hosiery according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

[0005] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a knitted hosiery for wearing as legwear which has different properties in the foot area than in the leg area and is at the same time easy to manufacture, offers a good wearing feel and a uniform, fine stitch pattern.

[0006] The problem is solved by a knitted hosiery with the features of claim 1. When worn, the knitted hosiery covers at least one leg from the toes to the calf. It has at least a first section, formed by circular knitting from a plurality of first stitches of a first yarn, and at least a second section, formed by circular knitting from a plurality of second stitches of a second yarn. The second section comprises at least a sole section, which, when the hosiery is worn on one leg, covers at least the sole of the foot. The second section is thus located in the foot area of ​​the hosiery, which encloses the foot when worn on one leg. The sole section of the hosiery preferably has no seam to improve the feel and comfort of the hosiery. The first yarn and the second yarn are different yarns.In this way, different yarn properties can be utilized in the various sections of the hosiery. The first section can be specifically designed with different properties than the second. For example, the feel of the hosiery in the second section can be improved by using a yarn that is particularly moisture-regulating and / or heat-insulating. The first and second sections are connected by a transition section, where the first and second stitches are knitted together. The first and second stitches are specifically aligned with each other. This creates a single, integrated hosiery that has a uniform stitch pattern even in the transition section. The first and second sections are not joined by any additional joining method such as sewing or gluing.In particular, no seam is formed between the first and second sections. This makes the knitted hosiery especially easy to produce with just a few manufacturing steps. Additionally, the uniform stitch pattern in the transition area gives the hosiery a particularly high-quality appearance compared to similar hosiery made using state-of-the-art technology. Furthermore, the absence of an additional seam in the transition area prevents fraying or tearing of the hosiery in this area. This increases the durability and resilience of the hosiery.

[0007] The stitch count of knitted fabrics describes how densely the stitches are arranged next to each other. It indicates how many stitches are arranged next to each other along a given length. The stitch count is therefore a measure of how many stitches are in a row of circular knitted fabric or hosiery. A high stitch count means that more stitches are arranged next to each other along a given length than a low stitch count. For example, sheer stockings have a very high stitch count compared to ordinary socks. In the knitted hosiery according to the invention, the first section has a first stitch count and the second section a second stitch count, with the first stitch count being higher than the second stitch count. The first stitch count can, for example, be comparable to the stitch count of a sheer stocking, while the second stitch count can be comparable to the stitch count of a sock.By having a lower stitch count in the second section than in the first, the comfort of the hosiery is improved in the second section, while a very fine, dense knit is provided in the first section. Preferably, the first stitch count is adapted to the first yarn and the second stitch count to the second yarn. A yarn with a small diameter is preferably knitted with a higher stitch count than a yarn with a large diameter. In this way, different yarns can be used in the first and second sections while still ensuring a uniform knit in each section. Advantageously, the first stitch count is at least twice as high as the second stitch count. In a preferred embodiment of the knitted hosiery, the first section comprises no yarn other than the first yarn, and / or the second section comprises no yarn other than the second yarn.The different stitch counts in the first and second sections allow the use of yarns with significantly different material properties in each section. If the stitch count were the same in both sections, the selection of usable yarns would be much more limited.

[0008] Advantageously, the yarn diameter of the first yarn is smaller than the yarn diameter of the second yarn. In the second section, knitted with the second yarn, this creates a more comfortable feel when wearing the hosiery. It is particularly advantageous if the yarn diameter of the first yarn is a maximum of 75 percent of the yarn diameter of the second yarn, but preferably a maximum of 50 percent. However, it is especially preferred if the yarn diameter of the first yarn is a maximum of 40 percent of the yarn diameter of the second yarn. This results in a very fine, high-quality appearance of the hosiery in the first section, while the thicker yarn in the second section provides exceptional comfort.Only through the different stitch counts in the first and second areas of the hosiery is it even possible to combine such greatly different yarn diameters and thus yarns with very different properties in a single hosiery without obtaining a stitch pattern in the first area with the yarn that has a smaller diameter that is coarse and holey - i.e. rather net-like.

[0009] Preferably, when wearing hosiery, the second section covers only the sole of the foot, at least partially the heel, and preferably at least part of the instep, the outer side of the foot, and the toes. The second section does not cover the instep. Such hosiery is suitable for wearing with open-toed footwear, such as pumps. When wearing such footwear, the second section is concealed by the shoes – it lies in the "no-show" area. In this way, the hosiery offers good comfort in the area covered by the shoes while maintaining a very refined, high-quality appearance in the visible areas that are not concealed by the shoes.

[0010] A stitch is the smallest dimensionally stable unit of a knitted fabric. It consists of a loop of yarn held together by other stitches or loops. In circular knitting, a large number of adjacent stitches are arranged in a row, with a row containing all the stitches formed in one revolution of the circular knitting machine. Stitches that lie directly on top of each other in successive rows—that is, those typically formed one after the other with the same knitting needle in circular knitting—form a stitch cluster. This definition of stitches, rows, and stitch clusters is familiar to those skilled in the craft. More detailed descriptions can be found in the textbook "Circular Knitting: Theory and Practice of Stitch Techniques," Iyer; Mammel; Schäch; - 2nd expanded edition - Bamberg: Meisenbach, 2000.

[0011] According to the invention, in the transition area, at least two first stitches formed with the first yarn are layered on top of each other from adjacent stitches of a row, and only one second stitch, formed with the second yarn, passes through these two first stitches. In this case, the two layered first stitches are both held in place in the hosiery by the same second stitch that passes through them. In this way, the number of stitches in the first area can be greater than in the second area of ​​the hosiery without creating any loose stitches in the transition area. This reduces the risk of runs and increases the durability of the hosiery. Furthermore, the resulting uniform and consistent stitch pattern provides exceptional comfort, even in the transition area.In an alternative embodiment, three first stitches, consisting of adjacent stitches from a row, are layered on top of each other, and only one second stitch passes through these three first stitches. In this way, the number of stitches in the second section of the hosiery can be reduced even further compared to the number of stitches in the first section, without creating loose stitches in the transition area. This allows for the production of hosiery with even greater differences in properties between the first and second sections.

[0012] Further advantages arise if the second yarn has a higher hygroscopicity than the first. Hygroscopicity is a measure of a yarn's ability to absorb moisture. The more moisture a yarn can absorb, the greater its hygroscopicity. The second section of the hosiery, knitted from the second yarn, comes into contact with the wearer's foot. If the yarn in this section has high hygroscopicity, it can significantly improve wearing comfort. Preferably, the second yarn should be able to absorb at least 5% moisture, but preferably at least 10%, at 21°C and a relative humidity of 65%.

[0013] Preferably, the first yarn comprises predominantly chemical fibers made of synthetic polymers. Particularly preferably, the first yarn comprises at least 80% by weight of elastane fibers, elastodiene fibers, polyacrylic fibers, polyamide fibers, polychloride fibers, polyester fibers, polyethylene fibers, polypropylene fibers, acetate fibers, triacetate fibers, or a combination of the aforementioned fibers. All these yarns can be produced with comparatively small fiber diameters. They are therefore suitable for manufacturing knitted fabrics with a high stitch count. It is particularly preferred if the first yarn comprises at least 80% by weight of polyamide fibers. This allows for the very simple and cost-effective production of particularly fine hosiery.

[0014] A hosiery fabric is particularly preferred in which the second yarn consists predominantly of natural fibers and / or regenerated fibers. Regenerated fibers are fibers that can be produced from renewable raw materials through chemical processes. They are therefore classified as man-made fibers, but are not made from synthetic polymers. Regenerated fibers can be produced from cellulose, for example. Natural fibers can be plant fibers, animal fibers, or mineral fibers. However, plant or animal natural fibers are preferred. Advantageously, the second yarn comprises at least 80% by weight of wool fibers, virgin wool fibers, cotton fibers, flax fibers, cashmere fibers, viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, cupro fibers, angora fibers, bamboo fibers, or a combination of the aforementioned fibers. All of these yarns can be produced with comparatively large fiber diameters. They are therefore suitable for the production of a knitted fabric with a small stitch count.Hosiery made from these yarns offers a particularly comfortable feel and exhibits comparatively high hygroscopicity compared to the yarns mentioned in the preceding paragraph. Such hosiery provides thermal insulation in cold temperatures and reliably wicks away perspiration. Therefore, even in warm temperatures, it prevents the wearer's skin from feeling damp. It is especially advantageous if the second yarn comprises at least 80% cotton and / or wool fibers by weight. Cotton and wool fibers have excellent moisture-regulating properties. Therefore, the comfort of the hosiery can be further enhanced by using cotton and / or wool fibers.

[0015] Further advantages arise when the initial stitch count is 300 to 600 stitches per row. Preferably, however, the initial stitch count is 350 to 450 stitches per row. The initial stitch count refers to the stitch count of the hosiery in the first section. Such a high stitch count creates a particularly fine and dense knit in the first section of the hosiery. The hosiery then appears very uniform and closed. A net-like structure with large holes is avoided.

[0016] It is also advantageous if the second stitch count is between 50 and 300 stitches per row. Preferably, however, the second stitch count is between 100 and 250 stitches per row. It has been shown that the wearing comfort of the hosiery can be significantly improved if the second stitch count falls within the aforementioned selection ranges. Particularly in combination with a second yarn that exhibits high hygroscopicity and / or a second yarn that has a larger diameter than the first yarn, the wearing comfort can be surprisingly greatly enhanced. The wearer then experiences a sensation in the second row that is similar to the exceptionally comfortable feel of a sports sock.

[0017] Hosiery with a particularly fine and high-quality appearance is preferably constructed as a knit / purl knit in the first and second sections. A knit / purl knit is characterized by one side of the fabric having only knit stitches and the other side having only purl stitches, and by each stitch also having only knit or only purl stitches. A knit stitch is the side of a stitch where the loops are above and the base is below the head of the previous stitch. A purl stitch, on the other hand, is the side of a stitch where the loops are below the head and the base is above the head of the previous stitch. A knit / purl knit is stretchable in both the lengthwise and crosswise directions. It therefore offers a high level of comfort.Furthermore, right / left knit fabrics can be produced much more easily with areas of different stitch counts than left / left knit fabrics or right / right knit fabrics.

[0018] As previously described, it is advantageous if the second area is designed such that it is covered by the wearer's footwear. At the same time, the second area is preferably as large as possible to offer a high level of comfort, particularly in the contact area between the leg and the footwear. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that do not make contact with the footwear when worn. Therefore, depending on the footwear, various embodiments of the hosiery are conceivable to meet the aforementioned conditions. The preferred design of the second area, for example, to be covered by the footwear when worn with pumps, has already been described. Further embodiments are described below.

[0019] If the hosiery is intended to be worn in mid-height shoes, such as athletic shoes or sneakers, the second area preferably comprises a foot section that, when the hosiery is worn on one leg, encloses the entire foot up to the ankle – that is, including the instep but excluding the ankle itself. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that lie above the foot section.

[0020] If the hosiery is to be worn in ankle boots that just cover the wearer's ankle, the second area includes at least an ankle section that, when the hosiery is worn on one leg, at least encloses the ankle. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that lie above the ankle.

[0021] If the hosiery is to be worn in boots that cover the wearer's leg to just below the knee, the second area includes at least a calf section that, when the hosiery is worn on one leg, at least partially encloses the calf. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that lie above the calf.

[0022] If the hosiery is to be worn in boots that cover the wearer's leg to just above the knee, the second area includes at least a knee section that encloses the knee when the hosiery is worn on one leg. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that lie above the knee.

[0023] If the hosiery is to be worn in boots that also at least partially cover the wearer's thighs, the second area comprises at least one thigh section that, when the hosiery is worn on one leg, at least partially encloses the thigh. Preferably, the second area does not include any parts of the hosiery that lie above the thigh.

[0024] Further advantages arise when the knitted tights are pantyhose comprising two leg sections, two foot sections, and a panty section. When worn, each leg section encloses one of the wearer's legs, and each foot section encloses one of the wearer's feet. The panty section connects the two leg sections and, when worn, covers at least part of the wearer's torso. Additionally, the first section of the tights incorporates at least portions of the two leg sections. This first section can comprise at least two subsections separated by the second section or subsections of the second section. Tights offer a high level of comfort. Furthermore, they fit securely on the body and, in particular, prevent the leg sections from slipping down the legs.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the first section of the hosiery comprises the panty section. The high stitch count in this first section makes the hosiery particularly comfortable to wear over underwear. Additionally, it allows it to be worn discreetly and comfortably under tight-fitting outerwear.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment, the second section of the hosiery comprises the panty section. This second section then includes at least two subsections (at least a foot section and the panty section) separated from each other by the first section or subsections of the first section. The panty section of the hosiery then provides particularly good thermal insulation and moisture regulation, preventing the wearer from getting cold. Such hosiery is therefore very comfortable to wear, especially in cold ambient temperatures. The moisture-regulating properties of the panty section are also advantageous in warm ambient temperatures, where the wearer tends to sweat, because the skin in the panty section area is kept dry.

[0027] Advantageously, the knitted hosiery is knitted in one piece on a circular knitting machine, starting from one end of the garment. For example, the hosiery can be knitted in one piece from the thigh area towards the toe. In the case of pantyhose, the hosiery can be knitted in one piece from the leg part towards the toe. On a circular knitting machine, the hosiery is typically knitted as a tube, which initially has two openings. One of the openings is located at the toe. To close the opening at the toe, it is preferably sewn shut. It is particularly preferred if the opening at the toe of the hosiery is closed directly on the circular knitting machine at the end of the knitting process using a toe-closing device.Whether using a conventionally stitched opening or a toe closure device, a seam is created in the toe area. This seam is not located on the sole of the foot to prevent skin irritation caused by friction.

[0028] To improve the fit and comfort of knitted hosiery, it is common practice, and well known to those skilled in the art, to knit the hosiery in a heel-like shape in the heel area, which covers the wearer's heel when worn. Such a design of the heel area is advantageous for all the embodiments of knitted hosiery described above and below. Such a heel area is usually known to those skilled in the art as a gusset. A gusset is a wedge-shaped insert in the hosiery. Preferably, the wedge-shaped insert is formed by two trapezoidal areas of the hosiery lying with their narrow sides against each other. In the area of ​​the gusset, the hosiery includes rows of stitches that are not knitted over the entire circumference of the fabric and have fewer stitches per row than rows that extend over the entire circumference of the hosiery.In a circular knitting machine, a large number of knitting needles are set to a state in which they no longer form stitches. Yarn is then fed to the remaining stitch-forming needles to create stitches. The cylinder of the circular knitting machine is operated in a pendulum motion, reversing its direction of rotation once the yarn has passed all active, stitch-forming needles. The yarn then passes the active needles in the opposite direction until the direction of rotation of the knitting cylinder is reversed again. The hosiery is then no longer formed over the entire circumference of the knitted tube. Preferably, the number of active, stitch-forming needles is reduced by at least one needle with each row over several rows. In this way, the trapezoidal areas of the gusset can be knitted.The gusset conforms particularly well to the wearer's heel, thus significantly increasing the comfort of the hosiery. To finish the heel area, the number of stitches in successive rows is increased again until the number of stitches in a row is reached that extends over the entire circumference of the hosiery. Fig. 1 Figure 1 Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment of the hosiery 1 with a first area 2 and a second area 3. Figure 2 Fig. 3 shows the stitch pattern of the hosiery 1 in the transition area 8 between the first area 2 and the second area 3. Figure 3 Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the hosiery. Figure 4 Figure 5 shows a third embodiment of the hosiery. Figure 5 Figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment of the hosiery. Figure 6 Figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment of hosiery. Figure 7Figure 8 shows a sixth embodiment of the hosiery. Figure 8 Figure 9 shows a seventh embodiment of hosiery. Figure 9 Fig. 10 shows an eighth embodiment of the hosiery 1, wherein the hosiery 1 is a pair of pantyhose 26. Figure 10 Fig. 11 shows a ninth embodiment of the hosiery 1, wherein the hosiery 1 is a pair of pantyhose 26. Figure 11 Fig. 12 shows a hosiery product 1 with a wedge-shaped insert 30. Figure 12 shows the schematic structure of the wedge-shaped insert 30 made of Figure 11 .

[0029] The Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the hosiery 1, which is in the Figure 1This is illustrated on a leg 9 for clarification. In this embodiment, the hosiery 1 completely covers the leg 9 from the toe 10 over the ankle 17, the calf 11, the knee 23, and up to and including the thigh 25. The hosiery 1 has a first area 2 and a second area 3, the knit structure of which differs. The two areas are therefore clearly distinguishable visually in the hosiery 1. Figure 1This is illustrated by the transition area 8, shown with a line, and the hatching of the second area 3. The knit pattern of the two areas differs in that the number of stitches in the hosiery is higher in the first area 2 than in the second area 3 – the first area 2 therefore has more stitches per row than the second area 3. The first area 2 thus has a finer and more luxurious appearance, whereas the second area 3 offers greater wearing comfort. In the illustrated embodiment, the second area 3 includes a sole area 12 that covers the sole of the leg 9. Additionally, the second area 3 covers the toes at the tip of the foot 10, the heel, the inner side of the foot, and the outer side of the leg 9. The instep, however, is covered by the first area 2. Such hosiery is particularly suitable for wearing with open-cut shoes, such as pumps.In such shoes, the second area 3, which has a rougher and less premium appearance, is concealed by the shoes. It is therefore not visible while wearing the shoes – it lies in the "no-show" area. Hosiery 1 thus offers the advantages of the high-quality-looking first area 1 in the visible area and the superior comfort of the second area 3 in the non-visible area.

[0030] The Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows an exemplary section of the transition area 8 of the hosiery 1 according to the invention. The explanations regarding Fig. 2 These apply to all previously and subsequently described embodiments. Fig. 2 It can be seen that the transition area 8 is located between the first area 2 and the second area 3. The hosiery 1 is entirely constructed as a right / left knit fabric. In the Fig. 2This can be recognized by the fact that all the stitches shown are purl stitches – meaning that in all stitches, the legs are below the head and the feet are above the head of the previous stitch. In the Figure 2This shows the wrong side of the hosiery. The first section 2 is knitted from the first stitches 4 of a first yarn 6, whereas the second section 3 is knitted from the second stitches 5 of a second yarn 7. Different yarns are therefore used for the two sections. The transition section 8 connects the first stitches 4 of the first section 2 and the second stitches 5 of the second section 3. The first section 2 and the second section 3 are thus knitted together in the transition section 8. In particular, this creates a connection in which the first stitches 4 and the second stitches 5 are aligned in an orderly fashion to form a uniform transition section 8. Two first stitches 4 from adjacent double crochet stitches 14 of a row 15 are placed on top of each other in the transition section 8. Only one second stitch 5 passes through these two first stitches 4 and holds them in their position.In this way, four stitches (14) in the first section (2) become only two stitches (14) in the second section (3). In other words, the number of stitches (stitches per row) is twice as high in the first section (2) as in the second section (3). This improves the comfort of the second section (3) of the hosiery (1). In this example, every second first stitch (4) of a row (14) is placed over an adjacent first stitch (4) to halve the number of stitches in the second section (3) compared to the number of stitches in the first section (2). However, many variations of the stitch pattern are conceivable. For example, only every third first stitch (4) or only every fourth first stitch (4) in the transition section (8) could be placed over an adjacent first stitch (4) as described above to reduce the number of stitches in the second section (3) less drastically.The knitted connection between the first section (2) and the second section (3) eliminates the need for a seam between the two sections. This avoids an additional manufacturing step and increases the comfort of the hosiery (1). Furthermore, it creates a smooth transition between the sections and prevents runs or fraying. The neat and even arrangement of the stitches also provides excellent comfort in the transition area.

[0031] The reduced number of stitches in the second area 3 allows for the use of a second yarn 7 with a larger yarn diameter 13 in the second area 3 than in the first area 2. In the Figure 2It is clearly evident that the second yarn 7 has a larger yarn diameter 13 than the first yarn 6. In this way, different yarn types than those used in the first area 2 can be employed in the second area 3, which have a larger yarn diameter 13 and / or high hygroscopicity. A selection of such yarns has already been listed above. This can further improve the wearing comfort in the second area 3 of the hosiery 1.

[0032] The Figure 3Figure 1 shows a second embodiment of the hosiery 1. It differs from the first embodiment in that the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 comprises a foot section 16 that encloses the entire foot 18 of the leg 9 up to the ankle 17. The ankle 17 itself, however, is enclosed by the first section 2. Such hosiery 1 is particularly suitable for wearing in mid-height shoes – such as sports shoes or sneakers. The second section 3 is then covered by the shoes when worn.

[0033] The Figure 4 A third embodiment of the hosiery 1 is shown. It differs from the second embodiment. Fig. 3This is achieved by the fact that the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 additionally includes an ankle section 19 that encloses the ankle 17. The areas above the ankle 17 – in particular the calf 11 – are, however, enclosed by the first section 2. Such hosiery 1 is especially suitable for wearing with ankle boots. The second section 3 is then covered by the ankle boots when worn, but offers a very high level of comfort within the ankle boots.

[0034] The Figure 5 A fourth embodiment of the hosiery product 1 is shown. It differs from the third embodiment. Fig. 4This is achieved by the fact that the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 additionally includes a calf section 20 that encloses the calf 11. The areas above the calf 11 – in particular the knee 23 – are, however, enclosed by the first section 2. Such hosiery 1 is especially suitable for wearing in boots that cover the wearer's leg to just below the knee 23. The second section 3 is then covered by the boots when worn, but offers a very high level of comfort inside the boots.

[0035] The Figure 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the hosiery product 1. It differs from the fourth embodiment. Fig. 5This is achieved by the fact that the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 additionally includes a knee section 22 that encloses the knee 23. The areas above the knee 23 – in particular the thigh 25 – are enclosed by the first section 2. Such hosiery 1 is especially suitable for wearing in boots that cover the wearer's leg to just above the knee 23. The second section 3 is then covered by the boots, but offers a very high level of comfort. In cold ambient temperatures, such hosiery can also be worn advantageously in any type of footwear. The second section 3 of the hosiery then acts as thermal insulation and protects the wearer from the cold ambient air.

[0036] The Figure 7 Figure 1 shows a sixth embodiment of the hosiery product 1. It differs from the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 1. Fig. 6This is because the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 additionally includes a thigh section 24 that partially encloses the thigh 25. Such hosiery 1 is particularly suitable for wearing with boots that cover the wearer's leg up to the thigh 25 and partially the thigh 25 itself. The second section 3 is then covered by the boots, but offers a very high level of comfort inside the boots. The hosiery is also suitable for wearing with any type of footwear in cold temperatures. The second section 3 of the hosiery has a heat-insulating effect. In this way, it is also very comfortable to wear short outerwear – for example, dresses, skirts, or shorts – over the hosiery in winter.

[0037] The Figure 8 Figure 1 shows a seventh embodiment of the hosiery 1. It differs from the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. Fig. 1This is because the second section 3 of the hosiery 1 only covers the sole area 12, which covers the sole of the foot when worn. The outer and inner sides of the foot, the toes, and the heel are therefore not covered by the second section 3. Such hosiery is particularly suitable for wearing with sandals or strappy sandals. The second section 3 is then completely covered by the sandals or strappy sandals. Nevertheless, this hosiery offers a very high level of comfort in the sole area and prevents the foot from slipping inside the footwear.

[0038] The Figure 9 Figure 1 shows an eighth embodiment of the hosiery 1. The hosiery 1 is designed as pantyhose 26 and comprises two leg sections 27, two foot sections 28, and a panty section 21. When worn, the leg sections 27 each enclose one leg 9 of the wearer, whereas the foot sections 28 each enclose one foot 18 of the wearer. In the Figure 9No leg is shown. The leg parts 27 and the foot parts 28 enclose a leg 9 when worn, but in the same way as in the previous embodiments. Fig. 1 and Figs. 3-8 as already shown. The panty section 21 of the pantyhose 26 connects the two leg sections 27 and, when worn, encloses at least part of the wearer's torso. The pantyhose 26 has a first section 2 with a first number of stitches and a second section 3 with a second number of stitches. The first number of stitches is greater than the second number of stitches. In this way, the first section 2 and the second section have a different appearance, which is shown in the Fig. 9 The second area 3 is indicated by hatching. The first area 2 and the second area 3 are intertwined in a transition area 8 and thus firmly connected. The transition area 8 is in Fig. 2As shown and already described in detail above, the first area 2 comprises sections of the leg parts 27. When wearing the hosiery, the first area 2 is therefore visible, but not covered by shoes. The high stitch count in this area gives the tights 26 a high-quality appearance. In this embodiment, the first area 2 also includes the panty section 21. Due to the high stitch count of the first area 2, such a panty section 21 can be worn discreetly even under tight-fitting outerwear. Furthermore, any type of underwear can be worn under the panty section 21 without making it uncomfortable.

[0039] The Figure 10 Figure 9 shows a ninth embodiment of the hosiery 1. The hosiery 1 is again designed as pantyhose 26 and differs from the eighth embodiment in that Fig. 9This is because the panty section 21 is comprised not by the first section 2, but by the second section 3. The second section 3 comprises a total of three subsections (two foot sections 28 and one panty section 21), which are separated from each other by two subsections of the first section 2. Due to the properties of the second section 3, the panty section 21 of the pantyhose 26 offers a particularly high level of comfort. By using a second yarn 7 with a large yarn diameter 13 and / or high hygroscopicity, such pantyhose 26 can be worn very comfortably, especially in cold ambient temperatures.

[0040] The Figure 11Figure 1 shows an exemplary hosiery 1 with a wedge-shaped insert 30 in the heel area 29 of the hosiery. The heel area 29 of the hosiery 1 is arranged as a component of the foot section 28 of the hosiery 1. When the hosiery 1 is worn, the wearer's heel is received in the wedge-shaped insert 30. All previously described embodiments of the hosiery 1 can advantageously have such a wedge-shaped insert 30 in the heel area 29 of the hosiery 1.

[0041] The Figure 12Figure 1 schematically shows how the wedge-shaped insert 30 is formed in the hosiery 1. Two trapezoidal areas 31 of the hosiery 1 lie with their narrow sides 33 against each other. The trapezoidal areas 31 are connected to the adjacent areas of the hosiery 1 via their long sides 34. The slanted sides 32 of the trapezoidal areas 31 lie against each other in the hosiery 1 and are connected (or knitted) to each other via the stitches of the trapezoidal areas 31. The connection of the slanted sides 32 is shown in the Fig. 12 indicated by arrows with dashed lines. The position of the long sides 34 and the slant sides 32 is also shown in the diagram for clarification. Fig. 11 As shown in the Fig. 11 As can be seen, a heel-shaped pocket is formed in the heel area 29, which is usually referred to as a gusset by experts. Reference symbol list 1 Knitted hosiery 2 First area 3 Second area 4 First trick 5 Second trick 6 First yarn 7 Second yarn 8 Transition area 9 leg 10 toe 11 calf 12 sole area 13 Yarn diameter 14 stitch 15 row of stitches 16 foot area 17 ankle 18 Foot 19 ankle area 20 calf area 21 trouser part 22 knee area 23 Knee 24 thigh area 25 Thigh 26 tights 27 Leg part 28 footboard 29 heel area 30 Wedge-shaped insert 31 Trapezoidal area 32 sloping side of the trapezoidal area 31 33 Narrow side of the trapezoidal area 31 34 Long side of the trapezoidal area 31

Claims

1. Knitted hosiery (1) that is suitable for wearing as legwear, comprising a) at least one first region (2) that is formed in the circular knitting method from a plurality of first stitches (4) from a first yarn (6), b) at least one second region (3) that is formed in the circular knitting method from a plurality of second stitches (5) from a second yarn (7), c) wherein the hosiery (1) when worn covers a leg (9) at least from the tip of the foot (10) as far as the calf (11) , d) wherein the second region (3) comprises a sole region (12) which, when the hosiery (1) is worn on the leg (9) covers at least the sole of the foot, e) wherein the first yarn (6) and the second yarn (7) are different yarns, f) wherein the first stitches (4) and the second stitches (5) are knitted together in a transition region (8) so that the first region (2) and the second region (3) are connected to one another through the transition region (8), g) wherein the first region (2) has a first stitch count, h) wherein the second region (3) has a second stitch count, i) wherein the first stitch count is greater than the second stitch count, j) and wherein the stitch count specifies how many stitches are arranged next to one another over a predefined section in a stitch course (15) characterized in that k) in the transition region (8) at least two first stitches (4) of adjacently arranged stitch wales (14) of a stitch course (15) are laid one above the other and only one second stitch (5) passes through these two first stitches (4).

2. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the yarn diameter (13) of the first yarn (6) is smaller than the yarn diameter (13) of the second yarn (7).

3. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second yarn (7) has a higher hygroscopicity than the first yarn (6).

4. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first yarn (6) predominantly comprises chemical fibres of synthetic polymers.

5. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second yarn (7) predominantly comprises natural fibres and / or reclaimed fibres.

6. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first stitch count is 300 to 600 stitches per stitch course (15).

7. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second stitch count is 50 to 300 stitches per stitch course (15).

8. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first region (2) and the second region (3) is a plain knit product.

9. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises at least a foot region (16) which, when wearing the hosiery (1) on a leg (9), surrounds at least the entire foot (18) as far as the ankle (17).

10. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises at least an ankle region (19) which, when wearing the hosiery (1) on a leg (9), surrounds the entire foot (18) and at least the ankle (17).

11. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises at least a calf region (20) which, when wearing the hosiery (1) on a leg (9), at least partially surrounds the calf (11).

12. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises at least a knee region (22) which, when wearing the hosiery (1) on a leg (9), surrounds at least the knee (23).

13. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises at least a thigh region (24) which, when the hosiery (1) is worn on a leg (9), at least partially surrounds the upper thigh (25).

14. Knitted hosiery (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a) the knitted hosiery (1) is a knitted pantyhose (26) which comprises two leg parts (27), two foot parts (28) and a trouser part (21), b) wherein the leg parts (27) during wear each surround one leg (9) of the wearer, c) wherein the foot parts (28) during wear each surround a foot (18) of the wearer, d) wherein the trouser part (21) connects the two leg parts (27) together and during ear surrounds at least a part of the trunk of the wearer, e) and wherein the first region (2) of the hosiery (1) surrounds at least partial regions of the two leg parts (27).

15. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first region (2) comprises the trouser part (21).

16. Knitted hosiery (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second region (3) comprises the trouser part (21).

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