Moisture management upper torso garments

Abstract

To provide a garment.SOLUTION: The garment includes: a body having a first opening positioned opposite second openings 120a, 120b; a first sleeve 110a and a second sleeve 110b that are coupled to the body proximate to the second openings 120a, 120b; and a first gusset 112a disposed at least in part in a first underarm region and coupled to the first sleeve 110a and the body. The first gusset 112a includes at least two fabric layers. A first fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is designed to transport moisture, and a second fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is provided with moisture-resistant properties.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 635,823, filed April 18, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to garments, and more particularly to upper torso garments that provide moisture management to the wearer. [Background technology]

[0002] Sweating is a natural physiological phenomenon intended to regulate body temperature and cool the human body. In addition, sweating can be a hormonal response, a result of prolonged physical activity, a response to heat exposure, and / or an emotional response. For some people, unwanted or excessive sweating can be a daily problem. Specifically, moisture can accumulate and become visibly evident on a person's clothing, leading to negative feelings such as embarrassment, discomfort, and anxiety. Furthermore, ineffective management of moisture and sweating can lead to soiling of clothing and noticeable odors, which can further increase a person's discomfort.

[0003] When purchasing clothing, consumers may consider many criteria (e.g., fit, appearance, price, and performance). For example, consumers may consider a garment's ability to manage moisture. To achieve moisture management, manufacturers may utilize fabrics, materials, and chemical treatments or finishes. However, until now, it has been difficult for manufacturers to provide clothing that provides effective moisture management and / or moisture transport while also simultaneously providing good fit and in-garment comfort. More specifically, current clothing solutions often face problems with excessive thickness and bulk (e.g., from utilizing five or more layers of fabric to absorb moisture), which can contribute to in-garment discomfort and, in some cases, trap moisture, causing the wearer to feel damp in certain areas (e.g., in the underarm area). Regardless of the reason why a wearer may experience sweating, there has long been a need for clothing that provides moisture management to the wearer without sacrificing comfort and adding bulk to the garment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The systems and methods disclosed herein overcome many of the drawbacks and limitations of the prior art devices discussed above. For example, the garments of the present disclosure are designed to provide improved moisture management and overcome many of the drawbacks and limitations of existing products. The garments of the present disclosure provide improved moisture management by incorporating moisture wicking or moisture adsorption zones in contact with areas of the body that produce greater amounts of sweat (e.g., areas with the highest sweat gland density). In one embodiment, a garment is disclosed. The garment includes a body having a first opening positioned opposite a second opening, a first sleeve and a second sleeve connected to the body proximate the second opening, and a first gusset disposed at least partially in a first underarm region and connected to the first sleeve and the body. The first gusset includes at least two fabric layers. A first fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is designed to transport moisture, and a second fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is provided with moisture-resistant properties. In some cases, the first gusset is substantially symmetrical about a coronal axis of the garment. In some cases, the first gusset is substantially symmetrical about a coronal axis of the garment. In some cases, the main body further includes a front torso portion coupled to the rear torso portion, wherein a first gusset is coupled to at least one of the first sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a first gusset seam, and a second gusset is coupled to at least one of the second sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a second gusset seam.

[0005] In certain cases, the main body further includes a front torso portion integrally formed with the rear torso portion, wherein the first gusset is coupled to at least one of the first sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a first gusset seam, and the second gusset is coupled to at least one of the second sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a second gusset seam. In some such cases, the front and rear torso portions may be formed from tubular structures. In some cases, the at least two fabric layers of the first gusset include a third fabric layer disposed between the first and second fabric layers, the third fabric layer being designed to transport moisture. In certain cases, a hydrophobic film is bonded to the second fabric layer, imparting moisture resistant properties to the second fabric layer. In some cases, the first gusset is comprised of a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer.

[0006] In certain instances, the first fabric layer includes a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer, and the second fabric layer includes a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer, and the first outward-facing sublayer is laminated with a hydrophobic film comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane. In some cases, the first fabric layer includes a technical facing having a plurality of pores designed to transport moisture. In certain cases, the body includes a first fabric, the second fabric layer includes a second fabric, and the first and second fabrics are each composed of hydrophilic fibers or yarns. Additionally, a moisture repellent finish is applied to the second fabric. In some cases, the first fabric layer is substantially hydrophobic. In some such cases, the first fabric layer comprises polyester. In some such cases, the first fabric layer comprises polyester and either elastic yarns or elastic fibers. In some such cases, the first fabric layer comprises hydrophobic fibers. In some such cases, the first fabric layer comprises hydrophobic yarns.

[0007] In another aspect, a garment is disclosed. The garment includes a main body, the main body being provided in the form of a front torso portion, a back torso portion, a neck opening disposed opposite a waist opening, left and right sleeves connected to the front and back torso portions, a left gusset disposed at least partially in the left underarm region and connected to the left sleeve and the front and back torso portions, and a right gusset disposed at least partially in the right underarm region and connected to the right sleeve and the front and back torso portions. The left and right gussets are designed to impart moisture management properties to the garment. The left and right gussets each include a first gusset layer having a first periphery and a second gusset layer having a second periphery. The first periphery is connected to the second periphery. In some cases, the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer are coextensive.

[0008] In certain cases, the left and right gussets each include a third gusset layer, and the first, second, and third gusset layers are substantially coextensive. In other cases, the left and right gussets each include a third gusset layer, and at least one of the first, second, and third gusset layers is not coextensive with one or more of the first, second, and third gusset layers. In such cases, the length of the first and / or second gusset layer may be less than the length of the third gusset layer.

[0009] In some cases, the first and second gusset layers of each of the left and right gussets are joined together via a bond, and the left gusset is joined to the front torso portion, the back torso portion, and the left sleeve via one or more stitches, while the right gusset is joined to the front torso portion, the back torso portion, and the right sleeve via one or more stitches. In certain instances, neither the left nor the right gusset includes a laminate film. In certain cases, at least one of the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer is treated with one or more agents selected from the group consisting of wicking agents, stain repellents, odor control agents, water repellents, water resistance agents, antibacterial agents, antimicrobial agents, sanitizing agents, and combinations thereof. In some cases, the left gusset and the right gusset each include a first gusset layer having a technical front surface and a technical back surface. The technical front surface of the first gusset layer is imparted with a first texture to facilitate moisture wicking, and the technical back surface of the first gusset layer is imparted with a second texture. In some such cases, the second texture is substantially flat and untextured.

[0010] In certain cases, the left gusset and the right gusset each include a first gusset layer having a technical front surface and a technical back surface. The technical front surface of the first gusset layer is imparted with a first texture to facilitate moisture absorption, and the technical back surface of the first gusset layer is imparted with a second texture. In some such cases, the second texture is substantially flat and untextured. In some cases, the left and right gussets each further include a third gusset layer positioned between the first and second gusset layers, the third gusset layer being substantially similar to the first gusset layer.

[0011] In certain cases, the left and right gussets each include a first gusset layer having a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer, and a second gusset layer having a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer, wherein the first wearer-facing sublayer and the first outward-facing sublayer of the first gusset layer are provided in substantially the same configuration, and the second wearer-facing sublayer and the second outward-facing sublayer of the second gusset layer are provided in substantially the same configuration. In some cases, the left and right gussets each include a first gusset layer having a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer, and a second gusset layer having a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer, wherein the first wearer-facing sublayer and the first outward-facing sublayer are provided in different configurations, and the second wearer-facing sublayer and the second outward-facing sublayer are provided in different configurations.

[0012] In a further aspect, an upper torso garment is disclosed. The garment includes a main body provided in the form of a front torso portion, a rear torso portion, a neck opening opposite a waist opening, left and right sleeves connected to the front and rear torso portions, and a gusset disposed at least partially in the right underarm region and extending into the front and rear torso portions. The gusset is connected to the right sleeve and the front and rear torso portions, and the gusset is configured to provide moisture management properties. The gusset is defined by a first gusset end, a second gusset end positioned opposite the first gusset end, and a linear length extending between the first and second gusset ends. The gusset is further defined by a first width at the second end of the gusset, a second width located between the first width and the first gusset end, a third width located between the second width and the first gusset end, and a fourth width located between the third width and the first gusset end, where the second width is greater than the first width, the third width is less than each of the first and second widths, and the fourth width is less than each of the first, second, and third widths.

[0013] In an additional aspect, a garment is provided, the garment including a front torso portion and a back torso portion, a neck opening and a waist opening, left and right sleeves connected to the front and back torso portions, a left gusset positioned at least partially in the left underarm region and connected to the left sleeve and the front and back torso portions, and a right gusset positioned at least partially in the right underarm region and connected to the right sleeve and the front and back torso portions, each of the left and right gussets comprising two or more fabric layers, including a first fabric layer that absorbs or adsorbs moisture and a second fabric layer that is resistant to moisture. In some cases, the left and right gussets are each substantially symmetrical about a coronal axis of the garment. In certain instances, the left and right gussets are each asymmetrical about the coronal axis of the garment.

[0014] In some cases, the left gusset is connected to at least one of the left sleeve, the front torso portion, and the back torso portion via a first gusset seam, and the second gusset is connected to at least one of the right sleeve, the front torso portion, and the back torso portion via a second gusset seam. In certain instances, at least a portion of each of the left and right gussets is seamless. In some cases, the left gusset and the right gusset each include a hydrophobic film. In certain cases, the left gusset and the right gusset each comprise a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer. In some cases, the first fabric layer includes a first wearer-facing surface and a first outward-facing surface, and the second fabric layer includes a second wearer-facing surface and a second outward-facing surface. In certain cases, the first outwardly facing surface is laminated with a hydrophobic film provided in the form of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0015] In another aspect, a garment is provided. The garment includes a main body having a front torso portion and a back torso portion, a neck opening opposite a waist opening, left and right sleeves connected to the front and back torso portions, a left gusset at least partially disposed in the left underarm region and connected to the left sleeve and the front and back torso portions, and a right gusset at least partially disposed in the right underarm region and connected to the right sleeve and the front and back torso portions. Each of the left and right gussets includes a first wearer-facing fabric layer having a first wearer-facing surface, a first outward-facing surface, and a first perimeter. Each of the left and right gussets further includes a second fabric layer disposed below the first wearer-facing fabric layer and having a second wearer-facing surface, a second outward-facing surface, and a second perimeter. The first perimeter is connected to the second perimeter. In some cases, the first wearer-facing fabric layer and the second fabric layer are coextensive. In certain cases, the first wearer-facing fabric layer and the second fabric layer are joined to one another via bonds, and the left and right gussets are joined to the front torso portion, the back torso portion, and the left and right sleeves, respectively, via seams. In some cases, the first outwardly facing surface is laminated with a hydrophobic film comprising thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In certain cases, the first, wearer-facing fabric layer and / or the second fabric layer are treated with one or more agents selected from the list including wicking agents, stain repellents, odor control agents, water repellents or water resistance agents, antibacterial agents, antimicrobial agents, and sanitary agents. In some cases, the first, wearer-facing surface is textured to facilitate moisture absorption, and the first, outward-facing surface is substantially flat and untextured. In certain cases, the left gusset and the right gusset each further include a third fabric layer positioned between the first, wearer-facing fabric layer and the second fabric layer. In some cases, the third fabric layer includes a third wearer-facing surface and a third outward-facing surface, and the third fabric layer is provided in substantially the same configuration as the first wearer-facing fabric layer.

[0016] In a further aspect, a method of manufacturing an upper torso moisture management garment is provided. The method includes providing a torso portion, a pair of sleeves, and a pair of gussets. Each of the gussets includes a first wearer-facing fabric layer and a coextensive second fabric layer disposed below the first wearer-facing fabric layer. The first wearer-facing fabric layer absorbs moisture, and the second fabric layer repels moisture. The method further includes joining the first wearer-facing fabric layer, the coextensive second fabric layer, the torso portion, and the pair of sleeves along peripheral edges of the first wearer-facing fabric layer and the coextensive second fabric layer.

[0017] In some cases, joining the first wearer-facing fabric layer, the coextensive second fabric layer, the torso portion, and the pair of sleeves along the peripheries of the first wearer-facing fabric layer and the coextensive second fabric layer further includes joining the first wearer-facing fabric layer of each pair of gussets to the associated coextensive second fabric layer via a bond, and joining the pair of gussets to the torso portion and the pair of sleeves via a seam extending at least partially along the periphery. These and other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a front elevational view of a moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the moisture management garment of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a left side elevational view of the moisture management garment of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 1 is a left side elevational view of another moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 5] 1 is a left side elevational view of yet another moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 6] 1 is a left side elevational view of an additional moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 7] 1. FIG. 4 is an enlarged elevational view of the outwardly facing surface of the left gusset of the moisture management garment of FIG. 1, constructed from section 7 of FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is an enlarged elevational view of the wearer-facing surface of the left gusset of the moisture management garment of FIG. 1 created by placing the garment of FIG. 7 in an inside-out configuration. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a section of a fabric layer provided within a panel of an exemplary moisture-wicking gusset such as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 9B]FIG. 9 is an exploded schematic view of a section of a fabric layer provided within a panel of another exemplary moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 10A] FIG. 9 is an enlarged elevational view of the technical front surface of a portion of the fabric layer of a moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. [Figure 10B] 9 is an enlarged elevational view of the technical underside of a portion of the fabric layer of a moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the fabric layers of a portion of an exemplary moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 12] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the fabric layers of a portion of another example moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 13] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the fabric layers of a portion of yet another example moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 14] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the fabric layers of a portion of a further example moisture-wicking gusset as depicted in any of FIGS. 1-8. [Figure 15] 1 is a front elevational view of another moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 16] 1 is a front elevational view of yet another moisture management garment constructed in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 17] 1 is a front elevational view of an additional moisture management garment in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 18] 1 is a front elevational view of a further moisture management garment in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 19] 1 is a front elevation view of yet another moisture management garment in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a left side elevational view of the moisture management garment of FIG. 19. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description presented herein are not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular examples disclosed, but rather, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0020] Before describing any example in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, but is limited only by the scope of the appended claims of this disclosure. The disclosure is capable of other examples and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for purposes of description and should not be considered as limiting. When used herein, the words "including," "comprising," or "having," and variations of these words, are intended to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents of those items as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," and variations thereof, are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mounting, connecting, supporting, and coupling. Furthermore, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. With respect to a garment laid flat on a horizontal surface, the "z-direction" is the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions, i.e., perpendicular to the horizontal surface.

[0021] With respect to each layer component within a moisture-wicking or moisture-adsorbing zone or portion (e.g., gusset) of a garment, when the garment is laid out on a horizontal surface with the surface facing the wearer facing upward (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 ), the terms “above,” “superjacent,” “below,” “subjacent,” and / or “beneath” between a first layer component and a second component within the moisture-wicking or moisture-adsorbing portion refer to the orientation of the components relative to one another along the z-axis. Thus, for example, with reference to FIG. 11 , the absorbent or adsorbent layer facing the wearer is positioned “above” the water-resistant layer, and conversely, the water-resistant layer is positioned “below” the absorbent or adsorbent layer facing the wearer. “Above” and “beneath,” with respect to two layer components, further mean that the two layer components are positioned directly surface-to-surface with one another. Regardless of the use of the above terms, those skilled in the art will also understand that the respective layer components within a moisture absorbing or moisture adsorbing zone or portion of a garment may be arranged in other manners and / or may even be positioned adjacent or adjacent to one another without direct surface-to-surface contact.

[0022] With respect to two opposing surfaces of a layer component of a garment, or of a combination of layer components, "wearer-facing" refers to the surface that faces the wearer's skin when the garment is worn in its intended configuration, and "outward-facing" refers to the surface that faces away from the wearer's skin when the garment is worn in its intended configuration. With respect to two separate layer components of a garment, the "wearer-facing" component is the component that is disposed closest to the wearer's skin when the garment is worn in its intended configuration, and the "outward-facing" component is the component that is disposed farthest from the wearer's skin when the garment is worn in its intended configuration.

[0023] The following description is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the examples of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles herein can be applied to other examples and applications without departing from the examples of the present disclosure. Thus, the examples of the present disclosure are not intended to be limited to those shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings have like reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives, still falling within the scope of the examples of the present disclosure. Additionally, while the following discussion describes features associated with particular devices or cases, it should be understood that additional devices and / or methods can be used with the described systems and methods, and that the disclosed devices and features are used to provide examples of possible cases, not to be limiting.

[0024] As mentioned above, sweating is a natural physiological phenomenon intended to regulate body temperature and cool the human body. Sweating, or perspiration, is composed primarily of water and some salts. When a person's core body temperature rises above a certain temperature, the human body begins to sweat to cool itself, which involves producing sweat and then evaporating the water in the sweat. Excess body heat can convert the water in sweat into gas, and as the excess body heat is used to evaporate the water in sweat, the body begins to cool. Clothing can provide moisture management by absorbing moisture from the skin and transporting it outward from the skin for evaporation. Certain properties of clothing can be selected and optimized to provide improved moisture management. For example, at least a portion of the fabric used to make the clothing can be selected and / or modified to enhance sweat absorption, transport, and / or evaporation. Certain fabrics, such as polyester, may be better at absorbing sweat, transporting sweat outward for evaporation, and drying quickly. Furthermore, within a class of fabrics, such as polyester, certain properties of the fabric and the fibers that make up the fabric may have more of an impact on moisture management than other properties.

[0025] Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that sweat absorption, adsorption, transport, and / or evaporation can be influenced by fiber properties and yarn and fabric construction parameters, as well as chemical treatments or modifications of the yarn or fabric. For example, fiber type, fiber size, fiber shape, yarn denier, filament count, and knit structure, among other properties, can affect sweat absorption, adsorption, transport, and / or evaporation. More specifically, the knit structure of a fabric may be modified to increase or decrease porosity and pore size, which can affect the water vapor permeability of the fabric. There are also several mechanisms that may be involved in moisture management, such as capillary action, denier differential mechanisms, and other processes that can facilitate sweat or moisture transport.

[0026] The present disclosure describes garments that include moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking zones or portions, such as, for example, moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbent gussets or gusset assemblies. Generally, the gussets or gusset assemblies may include one or more layers of fabric (e.g., at least two layers, at least three layers, at least four layers, etc.) of fabric. In some cases, the gussets or gusset assemblies may include at least two separate fabric layers, such as at least one fabric layer with moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking properties and at least one fabric layer with moisture-resistant or moisture-repellent properties. Suitable garments may include, for example, upper torso garments. Garments may be provided in the form of T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, jackets, sweaters, blazers, jumpsuits, rompers, etc. Generally, during use, the garments may be designed to cover at least a portion of the wearer's upper torso, including the wearer's shoulders, chest, and upper back, and optionally at least a portion of the wearer's arms. The garment may include one or more sleeves, e.g., a first sleeve and a second sleeve, and in use, the first sleeve may receive one of the wearer's arms, while the second sleeve may receive the wearer's other arm.

[0027] In various cases, one or more moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbing portions of a garment may be strategically positioned in contact areas of the body that generate greater amounts of sweating, such as, for example, underarms, the neck, or around the upper, mid, and / or lower back. The garment may be washable or reusable and may be constructed from any number of different materials and fabrics, including natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic materials such as cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex, viscose, modal, lyocell, rayon, other materials, and combinations thereof. For example, a garment may be at least partially formed from a microfiber jersey fabric that includes polyester, spandex, and / or other materials. In some cases, one or more fabrics of a garment may be provided with one or more treatments configured to impart odor control, temperature control, and / or other properties to the garment.

[0028] 1-3 illustrate an exemplary garment, such as an upper torso garment 100 ("garment 100"), that may be designed to provide moisture management and / or other benefits or characteristics to a wearer. In some cases, garment 100 may be provided in the form of a crew neck, short sleeve style upper torso garment. However, in other cases, garment 100 may take on a variety of styles. For example, garment 100 may be provided in the form of a V-neck, short sleeve upper torso garment, a long sleeve upper torso garment, an undershirt, a jacket, a hoodie, a sweatshirt, a pullover, a quarter-zip, and / or other upper torso garment.

[0029] A longitudinal axis A1 may divide the garment 100 into two portions or halves, i.e., a left portion and a right portion (see FIGS. 1 and 2). As shown, in some cases, the left and right portions of the garment 100 may be substantially symmetrical, while in other cases, one or more aspects of the garment 100 may be asymmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis A1. It should be understood that the longitudinal axis A1 is an imaginary or hypothetical line referenced herein to more clearly describe the structure of the garment 100. It should also be understood that the longitudinal axis A1 corresponds to the sagittal plane in common anatomical terms. Thus, when in use or worn, the left portion of the garment 100 may correspond to the left portion of the wearer's body, and the right portion of the garment 100 may correspond to the right portion of the wearer's body. The directional terms "left" and "right" are used for clarity and may be used interchangeably with numerical terms, such as first and second. In various cases, the garment 100 may have an upper end 102 and a lower end 104 opposite the upper end 102, and the upper end 102 and the lower end 104 may be positioned along a longitudinal axis A1. A lateral axis A2 may divide the garment 100 into an upper portion and a lower portion (see FIGS. 1 and 2). It should be understood that the lateral axis A2 is an imaginary or hypothetical line referenced herein to more clearly describe the structure of the garment 100. It should also be understood that the lateral axis A2 is parallel to a transverse plane in common anatomical terms. The lateral axis A2 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1 and may divide the overall length L1 of the garment 100 into an upper portion and a lower portion. The directional terms "upper" and "lower" are used for clarity and may be used interchangeably with numerical terms, such as first and second.

[0030] A coronal axis A3 may divide the garment 100 into a front portion and a back portion (see FIG. 3 ). It should be understood that the coronal axis A3 is an imaginary or hypothetical line referenced herein to more clearly describe the structure of the garment 100. It should also be understood that the coronal axis A3 corresponds to the coronal plane in general anatomical terms. Thus, in use, the front portion of the garment 100 corresponds to the front portion of the wearer's body, and the back portion of the garment 100 corresponds to the back portion of the wearer's body. The directional terms "front" and "back" are used for clarity and may be used interchangeably with numerical terms, such as first and second.

[0031] As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , garment 100 may be provided in the form of a front torso portion 106, a back torso portion 108, a right sleeve 110 a, a left sleeve 110 b, one or more gussets 112, and a collar 114 (collectively referred to as “garment portions”). In various cases, garment 100 may include one or more gussets 112, such as right gusset 112 a and left gusset 112 b. While garment 100 is shown including right sleeve 110 a and left sleeve 110 b and right gusset 112 a and left gusset 112 b, in other cases, garment 100 may include any other number of sleeves 110 or gussets 112. For example, in some cases, garment 100 may include only one sleeve 110 (e.g., either right sleeve 110 a or left sleeve 110 b may be omitted).

[0032] It should be understood that "torso portion" includes both the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108, "sleeves" includes both the right sleeve 110a and the left sleeve 110b, where the left sleeve 110b and the right sleeve 110a are substantially similar to one another (e.g., in dimensions), and "gusset" includes both the right gusset 112a and the left gusset 112b, where the right gusset 112a and the left gusset 112b are, in some cases, substantially similar to one another (e.g., given similar dimensions, surface area, and fabric layers). In some cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may include several layers of fabric and / or components, as further described below with reference to Figures 9A-14.

[0033] In some cases, when the garment 100 is worn, the gussets 112a, 112b are positioned near the wearer's respective armpits. For example, the right gusset 112a may be positioned in or adjacent to the right underarm region 101a of the garment 100, and the left gusset 112b may be positioned in or adjacent to the left underarm region 101b of the garment 100. However, in other cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be positioned at other locations relative to the wearer's body. The collar 114 may be disposed at the top end 102 of the garment 100 and may define a neck opening 116 configured to receive the wearer's neck, with the collar 114 disposed around a periphery of the neck opening 116. The front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108 may define a torso opening 118 configured to receive the wearer's torso. The sleeves 110a, 110b may be coupled to the gussets 112a, 112b, respectively, and to the front and back torso portions 106, 108. The sleeves 110a, 110b may be located at the right and left ends, respectively, of the garment. Each of the sleeves 110a, 110b may define at least two openings, including a first opening (first opening not shown) at a first end of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b and proximal to the front and back torso portions 106, 108, and a second opening 120a, 120b at an opposite second end of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b and distal to the torso portions.

[0034] Various portions or components of garment 100 (e.g., front torso portion 106 and back torso portion 108, sleeves 110a, 110b, gussets 112a, 112b, and / or collar 114) may be made from the same or different materials or fabrics. In some cases, garment 100 may be formed from a fabric composed of a substantially homogeneous material, and in various cases, the fabric may be provided in the form of cotton, cellulose, linen, nylon, polyester, knit (e.g., jersey, rib, mesh, etc.), knitted fabric, woven fabric, or combinations thereof. In other cases, garment 100 (or one or more portions thereof) may be made from any natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic fabric, including blends thereof.

[0035] 1 and 2 , certain portions of the garment 100 (e.g., the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110a, 110b, the gussets 112a, 112b, and / or the collar 114) may be joined to certain other garment portions via stitching, adhesives, bonding, tape, etc. In some cases, portions of the garment 100 may be joined to one another via one or more seams. Suitable seams include, by way of example, chain stitch seams, lock stitch seams, overlock seams, and / or other suitable seams. In further cases, one or more portions of the garment 100 (e.g., the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108) may be integrally formed with one another rather than being joined together. For example, one or more portions of the garment 100 (e.g., the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108) may be manufactured using a tubular structure.

[0036] In some cases, at least a portion of the collar 114 may be joined to the front and back torso portions 106, 108 via collar seams 122. Additionally, at least a portion of the front torso portion 106 may be joined to at least a portion of the back torso portion 108 via right and left shoulder seams 124a, 124b, which may extend at least partially from the collar 114 to the sleeves 110a, 110b, respectively, such that at least a portion of the collar 114 is joined to at least a portion of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b. Furthermore, at least a portion of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b may be joined to at least a portion of each of the gussets 112a, 112b via right and left gusset seams 134a, 134b, respectively. Each of the gussets 112a, 112b may form at least a portion of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b, respectively, and further, at least a portion of each of the gussets 112a, 112b may be joined to at least a portion of the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108 on the right and left sides of the garment 100 via gusset seams 134a, 134b, respectively. Additionally, at least a portion of each of the sleeves 110a, 110b may be joined to at least a portion of the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108 on the right and left ends of the garment 100 via right sleeve seams 126a and left sleeve seams 126b, respectively. Additionally, at least a portion of the front torso section 106 may be connected to at least a portion of the rear torso section 108 via right side seams 132a and left side seams 132b, which may correspond to or extend parallel to the coronal axis A3. However, in other cases, the front torso section 106 and the rear torso section 108 may be integrally formed with one another, and the left side seams 132a and right side seams 132b may be omitted.

[0037] In some cases, collar seam 122, shoulder seams 124a, 124b, sleeve seams 126a, 126b, side seams 132a, 132b, and / or gusset seams 134a, 134b may be provided in the form of straight stitch seams, full seams, felled seams, hemmed seams, pressed seams, double-stitch seams, glued or welded seams, decorative seams, triple-thread overlock seams, chain stitch seams, etc. In other cases, garment 100 may also be constructed in a seamless configuration (e.g., via circular knitting) and / or a tubular structure. In some cases, one or more of the aforementioned seams may be repositioned, combined with one or more other seams, provided continuously with one or more other seams, or not provided in garment 100.

[0038] The gusset seams 134a, 134b may join one or more of the fabric layers of the gussets 112a, 112b together. The gusset seams 134a, 134b may also join each of the gussets 112a, 112b to at least a portion of the sleeves 110a, 110b, respectively, and / or to at least a portion of the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108 on the right and left sides of the garment 100 via the gusset seams 134a, 134b, respectively. The bladder gusset seams 134a, 134b may be provided as any type of suitable seam known in the art. Alternatively, a first gusset seam may be used to join the layers of the gussets 112a, 112b together, and a second gusset seam may be used to join the gussets 112a, 112b to at least a portion of the sleeves 110a, 110b and / or to at least a portion of the front and back torso portions 106, 108. In other examples, the layers of the gussets 112a, 112b may be joined by bonding, adhesive, etc., and the gussets 112a, 112b may be joined to at least a portion of the sleeves 110a, 110b and / or to at least a portion of the front and back torso portions 106, 108 via a single continuous seam or via multiple seams.

[0039] In some cases, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may not extend around at least a portion of the periphery of each gusset 112a, 112b (i.e., at least a portion of the gussets 112a, 112b may be stitchless). In other cases, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may intersect the gussets 112a, 112b, dividing them lengthwise, widthwise, or both. For example, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may extend at least partially through a central portion of the gussets 112a, 112b. In some cases, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may bond one or more layers of the gussets 112a, 112b together. In other cases, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may also connect each of the gussets 112a, 112b to at least a portion of the sleeves 110a, 110b and / or to at least a portion of the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108. Because the seams on the wearer-facing surfaces of the gussets 112a, 112b may contact the wearer's skin, the precise location and arrangement of the gusset seams 134a, 134b can affect the in-garment comfort of the garment 100. Thus, locating the gusset seams 134a, 134b around the periphery of each gusset 112a, 112b can help improve in-garment comfort by reducing contact of the gusset seams 134a, 134b with the wearer's skin. Additionally, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may be provided in other locations and arrangements in addition to those described herein.

[0040] Although referred to above as separate seams, in some cases, collar seam 122, shoulder seams 124a, 124b, gusset seams 134a, 134b, sleeve seams 126a, 126b, and side seams 132a, 132b may form a continuous seam. For example, left sleeve seam 126b and left gusset seam 134b may diverge at gusset 112b to form a continuous seam that extends around the periphery of left gusset 112b. The garment may include a right sleeve hem seam 128a and a left sleeve hem seam 128b located near or adjacent to the second openings 120a, 120b of the sleeves 110a, 110b, respectively. Additionally, the sleeve hem seams 128a, 128b may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of each of the second openings 120a, 120b. The garment 100 may include a lower hem seam 130 at the torso opening 118 of the garment 100 that extends around at least a portion of the periphery of the torso opening 118. The lower hem seam 130 may also join the front torso portion 106 to the back torso portion 108. In some cases, the sleeve hem seams 128a, 128b and the lower hem seam 130 may be provided in the form of a twin-needle cover stitch. However, in other cases, the sleeve hem seams 128a, 128b and the lower hem seam 130 may be provided in any other suitable form.

[0041] In some cases, one or more of the shoulder seams 124a, 124b, sleeve seams 126a, 126b, cuff seams 128a, 128b, gusset seams 134a, 134b, and side seams 132a, 132b may be substantially similar and / or symmetrical across the longitudinal axis A1. In other cases, one or more of the shoulder seams 124a, 124b, sleeve seams 126a, 126b, cuff seams 128a, 128b, gusset seams 134a, 134b, and side seams 132a, 132b may be asymmetrical across the longitudinal axis A1.

[0042] 2, collar seam 122, shoulder seams 124a, 124b, gusset seams 134a, 134b, sleeve seams 126a, 126b, side seams 132a, 132b, optional sleeve hem seams 128a, 128b, and / or optional lower hem seam 130 may extend into the back torso portion 108 of garment 100. For example, optional lower hem seam 130 may extend from front torso portion 106 to back torso portion 108 around the periphery of torso opening 118. As another example, left sleeve seam 126b may extend from front torso portion 106 to back torso portion 108 at a first end of the left sleeve and around the periphery of a first opening in the adjacent left sleeve (first opening not shown) that is proximal to front torso portion 106 and back torso portion 108.

[0043] In some cases, one or more seams of the garment 100 (e.g., the gusset seams 134a, 134b) may be provided in the form of a mock safety stitch created using a 12-gauge sewing machine. Additionally, the gusset seams 134a, 134b and / or other seams of the garment 100 may be provided with moisture management properties. For example, in some cases, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may utilize needle and looper threads made from any natural, synthetic, or natural-synthetic blend material. For example, the needle thread may be provided in the form of a processed, lubricated polyester thread (e.g., T18 Txt Poly thread). In certain cases, the lubricated polyester thread may be created through the application of a lubricant coating (e.g., a silicone coating, a wax coating, a silicone and wax combination coating), heat treatment, lubricant impregnation, etc. The looper yarn may be provided in the form of a textured polyester yarn (e.g., T18 Txt Poly yarn) that has been imparted with moisture-wicking properties. In certain cases, the looper yarn may be imparted with moisture-wicking properties via a hydrophobic coating, fiber modification, specialty pigments or finishes, etc. Alternatively, the seams of the garment 100, including the gusset seams 134a, 134b, may be provided in any suitable form and may be formed from yarns comprising any suitable material and having other beneficial properties imparted thereto.

[0044] In some cases, one or more materials forming each of the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110 a, 110 b, and the collar 114 may be separate and distinct, or may be joined via stitching, adhesives, bonding, tape, etc. Such an approach may provide a designer with greater flexibility in the selection of materials for each of the front lower torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110 a, 110 b, and / or the collar 114 with respect to look, feel, weight, breathability, elongation, stretch, cost, and / or other properties. Alternatively, the material forming one or more of the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, and the sleeves 110 a, 110 b may be continuous with the material forming the collar 114, resulting in a garment 100 having a substantially unitary structure.

[0045] In some cases, one or more portions of the garment 100 (e.g., the front and back torso portions 106, 108, the sleeves 110a, 110b, the gussets 112a, 112b, and / or the collar 114) may be constructed, at least in part, from fabrics or materials that have been imparted with temperature regulation, moisture-wicking, odor-control, and / or other properties. For example, the fabric may be mechanically constructed to facilitate the transfer of moisture, vapor, or liquid through the fabric. In some cases, one or more portions of the garment 100 may have topical, chemical, and / or other treatments applied to impart moisture-wicking, vapor-transfer, odor-control, and / or other beneficial properties to the portions of the garment 100. Additionally or alternatively, the fabric may be treated with or impregnated with an antimicrobial substance (e.g., silver) to impart odor-control properties to the fabric. In some cases, one or more portions of garment 100 (e.g., front torso portion 106 and back torso portion 108, sleeves 110a, 110b, gussets 112a, 112b, and / or collar 114) may be constructed from different fabrics imparted with different properties that individually and / or collectively provide moisture management and in-garment comfort benefits. In further cases, one of gussets 112a, 112b may be imparted with one or more materials or properties as described above, while the other of gussets 112a, 112b may be provided in a different configuration.

[0046] In some cases, one or more of the front and back torso portions 106, 108, sleeves 110a, 110b, and collar 114 may be formed from a fabric that is up to about 100% cotton (or up to 100% cotton), such as 100% carded ring-spun cotton, combed cotton, mercerized cotton, or any other cotton fabric. As an additional example, one or more of the front and back torso portions 106, 108, sleeves 110a, 110b, and collar 114 may be composed of a fabric that is about 95% cotton and about 5% elastic fabric, such as spandex (e.g., 95% cotton and 5% spandex). In other cases, one or more of the front and back torso portions 106, 108, sleeves 110a, 110b, and collar 114 may be formed from a microfiber jersey fabric including a blend of polyester and spandex, or may be provided in any other suitable form.

[0047] In some cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be formed from fabrics or materials substantially similar to those described above with respect to the front and back torso portions 106, 108, the sleeves 110a, 110b, and the collar 114. However, in other cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be configured differently (e.g., to provide moisture management properties), as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 9A-14. In certain cases, at least one layer of the gussets 112a, 112b may include a fabric that is different from the fabric of the remainder of the garment 100. In other cases, the at least one layer of the gussets 112a, 112b may include a fabric that is the same or substantially the same as the fabric of the remainder of the garment 100.

[0048] With reference to FIGS. 3-6 , several exemplary structures of the gusset 112 are depicted. However, the gusset 112 may be given any suitable shape, structure, or configuration in addition to those specifically illustrated and / or described herein. As shown, the left gusset 112b may extend from a first gusset end 136 positioned along or parallel to the coronal axis A3 to a second gusset end 138 positioned along or parallel to the coronal axis A3. The left side seam 132b may extend from the second gusset end 138 to the bottom end 104 substantially along the coronal axis A3. While FIGS. 3-6 illustrate the left side of the garment 100, and the right side of the garment 100 is not separately illustrated, the right side of the garment 100 may be substantially similar to the left side. Accordingly, similar features on the right side of the garment 100 may, in some instances, be substantially the same as features described in the context of the left side of the garment 100. However, in other cases, the left and right sides of garment 100 may not be substantially symmetrical, and the features on the right side of garment 100 may differ from the features described above in the context of the left side of garment 100.

[0049] Garment 100 may include one or more moisture wicking and / or moisture absorbing portions or zones designed to provide moisture management benefits to the wearer. In some cases, garment 100 includes one or more moisture wicking and / or moisture absorbing gussets 112 (“gusset 112” or “gussets 112”). Gussets 112 may be durable, washable, reversibly bonded to garment 100, and / or irreversibly bonded to garment 100. Additionally, gussets 112 may be provided in any portion of garment 100, including areas where the wearer typically generates more sweat (e.g., the wearer's back, the wearer's armpits, and / or other areas of the wearer's body).

[0050] In some cases, the material forming the gusset 112 (e.g., the material forming one or more layers of the gusset 112) may be continuous with the material forming one or more of the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110 a, 110 b, and the collar 114. Alternatively, the material forming the gusset 112 may be substantially formed from one or more sections or layers of material that are separate from the material forming one or more of the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110 a, 110 b, and the collar 114. In such cases, the gusset 112 may be joined to one or more of the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, the sleeves 110 a, 110 b, and the collar 114 by tape, adhesive, bonding, one or more stitches, or via other joining mechanisms. In the illustrative but non-limiting example reflected in FIGS. 3-6, the gusset 112 may be separate and distinct from the front torso portion 106, the back torso portion 108, and the sleeves 110a, 110b, or may be joined thereto via stitching.

[0051] Gusset 112 and / or one or more layers of gusset 112 can be configured to absorb moisture, wick moisture, transfer moisture outwardly from the wearer's skin, and / or inhibit moisture from contacting or staining the outward-facing surfaces of garment 100. Additionally, gusset 112 may be designed to improve in-garment comfort, for example, by reducing the thickness and / or footprint or surface area of ​​gusset 112 compared to other garments. Further, the layers of gusset 112 may have substantially the same dimensions, e.g., length and width, and may be referred to as "coextensive." Alternatively, one or more of the layers may be longer and / or wider than the other layers (i.e., the dimensions of at least one of the one or more layers may differ from the other layers of the one or more layers).

[0052] The shape of the gusset 112 and the arrangement of one or more layers of the gusset 112 may vary. While the following description refers to the left gusset 112b as shown in FIGS. 3-6 , it should be understood that in some cases, the right gusset 112a may be substantially similar to the left gusset 112b in one or more of the aspects outlined below. For example, the front portion of the left gusset 112b (e.g., the portion of the left gusset 112b adjacent the front torso portion 106) and the rear portion of the left gusset 112b (e.g., the portion of the left gusset 112b adjacent the rear torso portion 108) may be substantially symmetrical across the coronal axis A3, as shown in FIGS. 3 , 4 , and 6 . In contrast, in other cases, the front portion of the left gusset 112b and the rear portion of the left gusset 112b may be substantially asymmetrical across the coronal axis A3, as shown, for example, in FIG. 5 . As shown in FIG. 3, in some cases, the left gusset 112b may be provided in the form of a V-shape including a rounded stem 131. In such cases, the width of the gusset may taper (e.g., decrease) along at least a portion of the gusset length L2. In some such cases, the left gusset 112b may terminate at a point provided at the first gusset end 136. Additional information regarding the shape of the left gusset 112b is provided below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4 , in some cases, the left gusset 112b may be provided in a U-shape or tulip-shape. In these cases, the width of the left gusset 112b may be approximately constant along most or substantially the entire gusset length L2. However, the left gusset 112b may gradually taper toward a point or toward a rounded end located at or adjacent to the first gusset end 136. For example, the width of the left gusset 112b may be widest at its intermediate portion and may taper along at least a portion of the length of the rounded trunk 131 (e.g., the width of the left gusset 112b may decrease). In some cases, the rate of tapering of the left gusset 112b may become more pronounced as the distance from the first gusset end 136 decreases.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 5 , in some cases, a front portion of the left gusset 112b (e.g., a portion of the gusset 112b adjacent the front fuselage portion 106) and a rear portion of the left gusset 112b (e.g., a portion of the gusset 112b adjacent the rear fuselage portion 108) may be asymmetric across the coronal axis A3. For example, when viewed downward, the left gusset 112b may be approximately symmetric up to a predetermined point along the length L2. Near, at, and / or after the predetermined point, the left gusset 112b may become asymmetric across the coronal axis A3. Specifically, a first area of ​​the rear portion of the gusset 112b may be smaller than a second area of ​​the front portion of the gusset 112b. In other cases, the left gusset 112b may have any other suitable asymmetric shape. 6, in some cases, the left gusset 112b may be provided in the form of a bullet. In these cases, the width of the left gusset 112b may be approximately constant along most or substantially the entire gusset length L2. However, the left gusset 112b may also be tapered (e.g., reduce in width) and terminate at or near the first gusset end 136.

[0055] While Figures 3-6 illustrate several possible shapes and configurations of the gussets 112a, 112b, the gussets 112a, 112b may be provided with any other suitable configuration or shape. For example, in some cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be provided with a substantially circular shape, an oval shape, a triangular shape, or other shapes. Furthermore, while Figures 3-6 illustrate the gussets 112a, 112b extending along most or all of the sleeves 110a, 110b, in other cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be arranged differently relative to the sleeves 110a, 110b. For example, in some cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may extend along only a portion (e.g., about half or about two-thirds) of the length of the sleeves 110a, 110b, respectively (see, e.g., Figures 19 and 20).

[0056] Additionally, while Figures 3-6 illustrate several possible arrangements and / or configurations of gussets 112a, 112b, gussets 112a, 112b may be arranged or positioned in any suitable location relative to garment 100. For example, as shown in Figures 3-6, gussets 112a, 112b may be substantially centered relative to a centerline of garment 100 (e.g., gussets 112a, 112b may be substantially centered about coronal axis A3 of garment 100). In some such cases, such as when gussets 112a, 112b are substantially symmetrical and centered about coronal axis A3, coronal axis A3 substantially bisects gussets 112a, 112b. However, in other cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be positioned at different locations relative to the coronal axis A3 of the garment 100 (i.e., the gussets 112a, 112b may be positioned elsewhere on the garment 100). For example, the gussets 112a, 112b may be offset relative to the coronal axis A3 (e.g., the gussets 112a, 112b may be positioned substantially on the front torso portion 106 or the rear torso portion 108). As an additional example, a larger surface area of ​​the gussets 112a, 112b may be positioned on the front torso portion 106 or the rear torso portion 108 of the garment 100. Thus, in various cases, the gussets 112a, 112b may be either substantially symmetrical or asymmetrical, and the gussets 112a, 112b may be either substantially centered with respect to the coronal axis A3 or offset relative to the coronal axis A3.

[0057] 3-6 collectively, the length L2 of gussets 112a, 112b may vary and may range from about 1% to about 65% of the overall length L1 (L1 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) of garment 100, or from 1% to 65% of the overall length L1. For example, length L2 may range from about 2% to about 50% of the overall length L1 (or from 2% to 50% of the overall length L1), or from about 5% to about 40% of the overall length L1 (or from 5% to 40% of the overall length L1). In other cases, length L2 may extend over other percentages of the overall length L1.

[0058] While FIGS. 3-6 depict the left side of garment 100, the right side of garment 100 may be substantially similar to the left side. Thus, in some cases, similar features on the right side of garment 100 (e.g., right gusset 112a) may be substantially the same as features described in the context of the left side of garment 100. Furthermore, the shapes and dimensions of gussets 112a, 112b are not limited to those shown in FIGS. 3-6. Gussets 112a, 112b may have shapes that include a combination of straight and curved lines and / or various polygonal shapes (e.g., triangular, rectangular, square, or other shapes). Also, although not shown, the right and left sides of garment 100 may be asymmetric in one or more respects, such that right gusset 112a and left gusset 112b may be sized and shaped differently from one another and / or may include different numbers of fabric layers.

[0059] 7 and 8 show enlarged views of the outward-facing surface 144 ( FIG. 7 ) and the wearer-facing surface 146 ( FIG. 8 ) of the left gusset 112b of the garment 100. As shown in FIG. 7 , in some cases, the width of the left gusset 112b may vary along the gusset length L2. For example, the left gusset 112b may have a first width W1 at the second gusset end 138. Additionally, at the central gusset axis A4 located between the first gusset end 136 and the second gusset end 138, the left gusset 112b may have a second width W2 that is greater than the first width W1. In some cases, the second width W2 may be the maximum width of the left gusset 112b. Additionally, the width of the left gusset 112b may increase continuously between the first width W1 and the second width W2 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Alternatively, the width of the left gusset 112b may increase discontinuously between the first width W1 and the second width W2 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Additionally, the rate at which the width of the left gusset 112b changes between the first width W1 and the second width W2 along the length L2 may be constant, or the rate may vary along that portion of the length L2.

[0060] At or near a point along the coronal axis A3 between the central gusset axis A4 and the first gusset end 136 (e.g., at or near a point about 20% to about 35% of the gusset length L2 away from the first gusset end 136), the left gusset 112b may have a third width W3. In some cases, the third width W3 may be less than the second width W2. For example, in some cases, the third width W3 may be substantially equal to the first width W1, while in other cases, the third width W3 may be greater than or less than the first width W1. Additionally, the width of the left gusset 112b may vary between the second width W2 and the third width W3 along the gusset length L2. For example, the width of the left gusset 112b may decrease discontinuously between the second width W2 and the third width W3 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Alternatively, the width of the left gusset 112b may decrease continuously between the second width W2 and the third width W3 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Additionally, the rate at which the width of the left gusset 112b changes between the second width W2 and the third width W3 along the length L2 may be constant, or the rate may vary along that portion of the length L2.

[0061] At or near a point along the coronal axis A3 between the central gusset axis A4 and the first gusset end 136 (e.g., at or near a distance of about 5% to about 15% of the gusset length L2 outward from the first gusset end 136), the left gusset 112b may have a fourth width W4 that is less than the first width W1, the second width W2, and / or the third width W3. Alternatively, the fourth width W4 may be substantially equal to the first width W1, the second width W2, and / or the third width W3, or the fourth width W4 may be greater than the first width W1, the second width W2, and / or the third width W3. The width of the left gusset 112b may vary between the third width W3 and the fourth width W4 along the gusset length L2. For example, the width of the left gusset 112b may decrease continuously between the third width W3 and the fourth width W4 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Alternatively, the width of the left gusset 112b may decrease discontinuously between the third width W3 and the fourth width W4 along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b. Additionally, the rate at which the width of the left gusset 112b changes between the third width W3 and the fourth width W4 along the length L2 may be constant, or the rate may vary along the aforementioned portion of the length L2.

[0062] Additionally, the width of the left gusset 112b may continue to decrease along the length L2 of the left gusset 112b between the fourth width W4 and the first gusset end 136. In such cases, the width of the left gusset 112b may continue to decrease along the length L2 between the fourth width W4 and the first gusset end 136 continuously, discontinuously, at a constant rate, and / or at a varying rate. As previously mentioned, the gusset seams 134a, 134b may extend along at least a portion of the periphery of the left gusset 112b and may vary in width to outline the shape of the left gusset 112b. In some cases, the width of the gussets 112a, 112b increases continuously from the first width W1 to the second width W2 along the gusset length L2, and then decreases discontinuously from the second width W2 to the first gusset end 136 along the gusset length L2. Alternatively, the width of the left gusset 112b may be substantially constant over the gusset length L2, where the first width W1, the second width W2, the third width W3, and the fourth width W4 are substantially equal to one another. In some cases, gusset seams 134a, 134b may define the perimeter of gussets 112a, 112b, respectively. In such cases, gusset seams 134a, 134b may at least partially define first width W1, second width W2, third width W3, and fourth width W4 of gussets 112a, 112b, respectively.

[0063] Generally, each of the gussets 112 may be provided with a first surface area and may be configured so that the first surface area represents a desired percentage of a second surface area, where the second surface area corresponds to the surface area of ​​one or more other portions of the garment 100. For example, the second surface area may correspond to the surface area of ​​the entire garment 100, the front and back torso portions 106 and 108, one of the sleeves 110, or another portion of the garment 100.

[0064] In some cases, the second surface area may correspond to the entire surface area of ​​the garment 100. In such cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 1% to at least about 15% of the second surface area, although the first surface area may be assigned a value somewhat greater than these values. For example, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 1%, or at least about 3%, or at least about 5%, or at least about 8%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 13%, or at least about 15% of the second surface area. In alternative cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least 1% to at least 15%. For example, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least 1%, or at least 3%, or at least 5%, or at least 8%, or at least 10%, or at least 13%, or at least 15% of the second surface area.

[0065] In some cases, the second surface area may correspond to a value obtained by summing the individual surface areas of the front fuselage section 106 and the rear fuselage section 108. In such cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 1% to at least about 25% of the second surface area, although the first surface area may be assigned a value somewhat greater than these values. For example, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 1%, or at least about 3%, or at least about 5%, or at least about 8%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 13%, or at least about 15%, or at least about 18%, or at least about 20%, or at least about 23%, or at least about 25% of the second surface area. In alternative cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least 1% to at least 25% of the second surface area. For example, the first surface area may be given a value that is at least 1%, or at least 3%, or at least 5%, or at least 8%, or at least 10%, or at least 13%, or at least 15%, or at least 18%, or at least 20%, or at least 23%, or at least 25% of the second surface area.

[0066] In some cases, the second surface area may correspond to the surface area of ​​the associated sleeve 110, and the first surface area may correspond only to the portion of the gusset 112 positioned on the sleeve 108 (e.g., excluding the portion of the gusset 112 positioned on the front torso portion 106 and the back torso portion 108). In such cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 10% to at least about 30% of the second surface area, although the first surface area may be assigned a value somewhat less than or greater than these values. For example, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 10%, or at least about 13%, or at least about 15%, or at least about 18%, or at least about 20%, or at least about 23%, or at least about 25%, or at least about 28%, or at least about 30% of the second surface area. In alternative cases, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least about 10% to at least 30% of the second surface area. For example, the first surface area may be assigned a value that is at least 10%, or at least 13%, or at least 15%, or at least 18%, or at least 20%, or at least 23%, or at least 25%, or at least 28%, or at least 30% of the second surface area.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the outwardly facing surface 144 and the wearer-facing surface 146 of the left gusset 112b may be substantially similarly shaped (e.g., the outwardly facing surface 144 and the wearer-facing surface 146 may be substantially similarly shaped and / or sized). For example, in some cases, the outwardly facing surface 144 ( FIG. 7 ) may be substantially flat and untextured, while the wearer-facing surface 146 ( FIG. 8 ) may be provided with a texture, material, surface treatment, or other property designed to facilitate moisture transport and / or removal. For example, the wearer-facing surface 146 may, in some cases, include a plurality of pores 151 or other features designed to facilitate moisture absorption, adsorption, and / or transport, as described in further detail below with reference to FIG. 10A . Meanwhile, in other cases, the wearer-facing surface 146 may be provided in other forms.

[0068] 7 and 8 show the left side of garment 100, the right side of garment 100 may be substantially similar to the left side of garment 100. Thus, similar features on the right side of garment 100 may be substantially the same as features described in the context of the left side of garment 100. For example, the description of left gusset 112b above may equally apply to right gusset 112a. In other cases, the right and left sides of garment 100 (e.g., including gusset 112) may be asymmetric in one or more respects.

[0069] 9A and 9B, in some cases, the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of a "gusset assembly" including one or more layers of fabric or material (e.g., one or more separate layers of fabric or material, one or more sub-layers of fabric or material comprising one or more layers of fabric or material). Additionally or alternatively, the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of a "moisture wicking zone" or "moisture wicking zone" including at least two separate layers (e.g., at least two layers, at least three layers, at least four layers, etc.), such as at least one moisture wicking or moisture absorbing layer and at least one moisture resistant, water resistant, moisture impermeable, or water impermeable layer. It should be understood that in some cases, any moisture resistant, water resistant, moisture impermeable, or water impermeable layer provided within the gusset 112 may allow penetration of water vapor or other gases therethrough, thereby allowing moisture dispersion out of the garment 100 while also partially, substantially completely, or completely preventing liquid migration therethrough. In other cases, any moisture-resistant or water-resistant layer provided within the gusset 112 can facilitate the movement of liquid across and / or through the layer, thereby distributing the liquid over a larger surface area and / or volume, which can facilitate evaporation of the liquid and help prevent the wearer from perceiving the layer as "wet."

[0070] 9A and 9B schematically represent how moisture may be introduced into the gusset 112 when the garment 100 is worn in its intended configuration. For example, when a wearer of the garment 100 sweats, the moisture may migrate outward from the wearer's body and contact the first gusset layer 135 before being provided to the second gusset layer 137 and / or other fabric layers provided within the gusset 112. However, in other embodiments, the fabric layers of the gusset 112 may be arranged in different configurations than those described herein. The composition of the fabric layers of the gusset 112, the arrangement of the fabric layers within the configuration of the gusset 112, and / or other aspects of the gusset 112 may be selected to optimize moisture management. Similarly, the composition of the fabric layers of the gusset 112, the arrangement of the fabric layers within the configuration of the gusset 112, and / or other aspects of the gusset 112 may be selected to optimize in-garment comfort and / or aesthetics. For example, using fabric layers including polyester, nylon, or other similar synthetic materials may enable the construction of thinner, more lightweight gussets 112. Importantly, the absorbent or absorbing zones (e.g., gusset 112) of the present disclosure may, in some cases, be designed to provide improved moisture management without adding thickness or bulk.

[0071] 9A and 9B, a "gusset assembly" or gusset 112 may include a first gusset layer 135 and a second gusset layer 137. In some cases, the gusset 112 is comprised of the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137, while in other cases, the gusset 112 may include one or more optional layers of fabric positioned therebetween (e.g., a third gusset layer 139 positioned between the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137, as shown in FIG. 9B). In some cases, the first gusset layer 135 may be provided in the form of a moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbing layer, the second gusset layer 137 may be provided in the form of a moisture-resistant, water-resistant, moisture-impermeable, or water-impermeable layer, and one or more additional layers, such as the third gusset layer 139, may be positioned between or on either side of the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 and may be adapted to absorb moisture, adsorb moisture, or facilitate the wicking or transfer of moisture away from the wearer's body. Each layer of the gusset 112 (e.g., the first gusset layer 135, the second gusset layer 137, and / or the third gusset layer 139) may include a technical back surface (e.g., the technical back surface 149, as shown, for example, in FIG. 9A ) and a technical front surface (e.g., the technical front surface 155, as shown, for example, in FIG. 9A ).

[0072] The first gusset layer 135, the second gusset layer 137, and / or other additional layers of the gusset 112 may be provided with substantially similar or different properties. For example, in some cases, the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 may be provided with substantially similar dimensions. In other words, the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 may be provided in the form of coextensive layers of fabric or material having substantially similar shapes and sizes. However, in other cases, the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 may not be coextensive. For example, one of the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 may be configured to fold over an edge of the other of the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer (e.g., at a location proximate the second end 138 of the gusset or the end of the associated sleeve 110, as shown in FIGS. 3-6 ). In certain cases, an inner layer of gusset 112, such as first gusset layer 135, may be somewhat smaller along one or more dimensions than an outer layer of gusset 112, such as second gusset layer 137 (although in other cases, the inner layer may be configured to fold over the outer layer). In some such cases, the length of first gusset layer 135 may be smaller than the length of second gusset layer 137 (e.g., second gusset layer 137 may extend along the entire length of sleeve 110, while first gusset layer 135 may extend along only a portion of sleeve 110), such that an additional length of second gusset layer 137 can fold over an adjacent end of first gusset layer 135 proximate second end 138 of the gusset. Thus, the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 can be secured (e.g., sewn) together with additional adjacent layers of the garment 100 by associated cuff seams 128 (see, e.g., FIG. 7).In some cases, by providing the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 of different sizes so that a portion of one of the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 can fold over a portion of the other of the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137, the bulk or volume factor associated with the gusset 112 can be reduced, thereby improving in-garment comfort, for example.

[0073] In some cases, first gusset layer 135 and second gusset layer 137 (and / or other layers of gusset 112) may be provided in the form of a single layer of fabric or material (see, e.g., FIG. 9B). However, in other cases, one or both of first gusset layer 135 and second gusset layer 137 (and / or other layers of gusset 112) may include two or more separate sub-layers of fabric or material that together make up first gusset layer 135 or second gusset layer 137, as described in further detail below with reference to FIG. 9A.

[0074] The layers (or sub-layers) of the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of fabrics and / or materials selected to improve moisture absorption, moisture wicking, and / or other moisture management related properties, such as odor control, antimicrobial properties, or other properties. For example, the inclusion of certain fabrics and materials, such as cotton, bamboo, wool, linen, hemp, and / or silver, within the gusset 112 can impart increased odor control and / or antimicrobial properties to the gusset 112.

[0075] Additionally, one or more layers of the gusset 112 may include fabrics including hydrophobic yarns or materials, hydrophilic yarns or materials, or a combination thereof. Generally, hydrophilic yarns and fibers, such as cotton yarns and fibers, absorb water, while hydrophobic yarns and fibers, such as polyester yarns and fibers, repel water. The yarns and fibers of the gusset 112 may also be chemically treated or modified (e.g., laminated) to increase or decrease the hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity of the fibers and / or to impart other moisture management benefits, such as odor control, to the gusset 112 (e.g., via antimicrobial agents such as silver). In some cases, the yarns and fibers of the gusset 112 may additionally be treated with a water-resistant agent (e.g., a durable water-resistant agent) to render at least a portion of the gusset 112 substantially water-resistant, water-impermeable, vapor-resistant, vapor-impermeable, etc. For example, the agent may be selected to increase the wicking distance and / or wicking rate of the gusset 112.

[0076] Additionally, one or more layers of the gusset 112 may include a fabric having one or more laminate surfaces. For example, the laminate surfaces may be provided in the form of a hydrophobic film, such as a thermoplastic film formed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and / or other materials (e.g., polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyester, nylon, etc.). The laminate surfaces may be configured to be substantially impermeable to water while allowing water vapor to pass through. For example, in some cases, the gusset 112 may include a thermoplastic film and / or a hydrophobic film 153, as described in further detail below with reference to FIG. 12 . In other cases, at least a portion of the gusset 112 may include a fabric treated or impregnated with an agent that provides odor control, stain removal or prevention, moisture repellency, hygiene, wicking, softness, and / or moisture absorption. The agent may generally be provided in the form of a gel, liquid, powder, or any other form that can be applied to the fabric by any number of well-known methods, such as padding or draining. In certain cases, the gusset 112 may be provided without one or more laminate surfaces. For example, the gusset 112 may not be provided with a TPU film. As a further example, the gusset 112 may not include a fabric laminated to a TPU film.

[0077] 9A shows a first configuration of the gusset 112. As shown, in some cases, the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of two layers, including a first gusset layer 135 and a second gusset layer 137 positioned adjacent to the first gusset layer 135. The first gusset layer 135 may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with the wearer's body and may be provided in the form of a moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbing layer. For example, the first gusset layer 135 may facilitate wicking or movement of moisture away from the wearer's body, and the second gusset layer 137 may be positioned opposite the wearer's body from the first gusset layer 135. The second gusset layer 137 may be provided in the form of a water-resistant layer. For example, second gusset layer 137 may be formed from a water-resistant or hydrophobic material, may be laminated with a hydrophobic film, or may be treated with a hydrophobic agent or substance to impart hydrophobic properties to second gusset layer 137. First gusset layer 135 and second gusset layer 137 may each be provided in the form of a single layer of fabric or material, or may each include two or more separate or independent layers of fabric.

[0078] In some cases, the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 may be arranged in opposite orientations relative to one another, such that the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135 is adjacent to the technical back surface 149 of the second gusset layer 137. In such cases, the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 135 may comprise the wearer-facing surface 146 of the gusset 112, and the technical front surface 155 of the second gusset layer 137 may comprise the outward-facing surface 144 of the gusset 112. In other cases, the first gusset layer 135, the second gusset layer 137, and the third gusset layer 139 may be arranged in any suitable configuration, and any surface of any layer of the gusset 112 may be provided as the outward-facing surface 144 or the wearer-facing surface 146. 9A , in some cases, the layers of gusset 112 may each include one or more separate sublayers. For example, first gusset layer 135 may include first wearer-facing sublayer 135a and first outward-facing sublayer 135b, and second gusset layer 137 may include second wearer-facing sublayer 137a and second outward-facing sublayer 137b. In some cases, sublayers 135a, 135b of first gusset layer 135 and sublayers 137a, 137b of second gusset layer 137 may be laminated, bonded, or otherwise coupled to one another.

[0079] 9B shows a second configuration of the gusset 112, which includes at least one additional layer of fabric or material. As shown, in some cases, the gusset 112 may include a first gusset layer 135, a second gusset layer 137, and a third gusset layer 139 positioned between the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137. In some cases, the third gusset layer 139 may be substantially similar to the first gusset layer 135 and may be configured to facilitate wicking or movement of moisture away from the wearer's body. However, in other cases, the third gusset layer 139 may be substantially similar to the second gusset layer 137 or may be different from the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137.

[0080] 9A and 9B, gusset 112 may be provided in other forms not specifically described herein. For example, gusset 112 may include any number of fabric layers in addition to or in place of first gusset layer 135, second gusset layer 137, and third gusset layer 139 described above, and the fabric layers of gusset 112 may be provided in any suitable form (e.g., formed from any suitable material). For example, first gusset layer 135, second gusset layer 137, and / or third gusset layer 139 may each include nylon, wool, bamboo, modal fabric, mesh, and / or any other natural or synthetic fiber or material.

[0081] 10A and 10B illustrate the technical front surface 155 and the technical back surface 149, respectively, of a moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking fabric layer of a gusset 112, such as the first gusset layer 135. In certain cases, the moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking fabric layer illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B may also include the third gusset layer 139 or any other fabric layer provided within the gusset 112. As shown in FIG. 10A , the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 135 may include one or more features (e.g., a plurality of pores 151) configured to facilitate moisture adsorption, absorption, and / or transport. That is, the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 135 may be imparted with a first texture, and the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135 may be imparted with a second texture. In some cases, the first texture and the second texture may be substantially similar, while in other cases, the first texture and the second texture may be different. For example, the first texture of the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 135 may include a plurality of pores 151 positioned thereon in a standardized pattern (e.g., a grid pattern, rows and columns), although the pores 151 need not be provided in a pattern.

[0082] In the example of FIG. 10A , the pores 151 may be substantially circular or oval in shape. However, in other cases, the pores 151 may be provided with other shapes, for example, the pores 151 may be provided with triangular, polygonal, rectangular, or other shapes. Additionally, the pores 151 may be provided with any suitable size to facilitate moisture management. For example, in some cases, the pores 151 may be provided in the form of nanometer-scale pores 151 (e.g., less than 1 micrometer in width or diameter) or macroscopic pores 151 (e.g., greater than 1 millimeter in width or diameter), or any other suitable size, including sizes between the nanometer and macroscopic scales referred to herein. The pores 151 are not drawn to scale in the drawings and may be provided with any suitable size; for example, in some cases, the pores 151 may be imperceptible to the human eye.

[0083] Furthermore, in certain cases, the porosity of the first texture of the technical front surface 155 (e.g., the number of pores within a given surface area and / or the size of the pores) may be adjusted to provide desired moisture management properties. For example, the porosity of the first texture may be adjusted by modifying one or more characteristics of the pores 151 or other features of the technical front surface 155. Such adjustment may include, but is not limited to, adjusting the ratio between the portion of the technical front surface 155 occupied by the pores and the remainder of the technical front surface 155. For example, in some cases, the ratio of a first surface area corresponding to the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 (e.g., the portion of the surface area of ​​the technical front surface 155 not including the pores 151) to a second surface area corresponding to the total surface area (or substantially all of the surface area) may be assigned a value of up to about 50%. For example, the ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area of ​​the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of up to about 5%, or up to about 10%, or up to about 15%, or up to about 20%, or up to about 25%, or up to about 30%, or up to about 35%, or up to about 40%, or up to about 45%, or up to about 50%. Alternatively, the ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area of ​​the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of up to 50%. For example, the ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area of ​​the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of up to 5%, or up to 10%, or up to 15%, or up to 20%, or up to 25%, or up to 30%, or up to 35%, or up to 40%, or up to 45%, or up to 50%. In other cases, the ratio of the voids 157 to the second surface area of ​​the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of at least about 50%. For example, the ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area of ​​the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of at least about 5%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 15%, or at least about 20%, or at least about 25%, or at least about 30%, or at least about 35%, or at least about 40%, or at least about 45%, or at least about 50%. Alternatively, the ratio of the voids 157 to the second surface area of ​​the technical front surface 155 may be assigned a value of at least 50%.For example, the ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area of ​​the voids 157 of the technical front surface 155 may be given a value of at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 65%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%, or at least 95%, or at least 100%.

[0084] In further cases, the pores 151 may be omitted, and the technical face 155 may include one or more other features configured to facilitate moisture management by absorbing, adsorbing, or transporting moisture. For example, in some cases, the technical face 155 may include a mesh structure including interconnected strands or fibers that allow moisture to pass through. In such cases, the size, thickness, geometry, arrangement, and / or other aspects of the strands or fibers of the mesh structure may be modified to provide desired moisture management properties. In other cases, the technical face 155 may include one or more (e.g., multiple) other features configured to wick, absorb, adsorb, or otherwise transport moisture, including, but not limited to, channels, grooves, gradient structures, capillary structures, absorbing coatings, etc. In certain cases, the technical back surface 149 of the first bladder layer 140 may also include pores, a mesh structure, and / or other features designed to help facilitate moisture transfer from the technical front surface 155 to the technical back surface 149 via capillary action. For example, the technical back surface 149 may include pores (not shown) that are smaller in size than the pores in the technical front surface 155, and / or the technical back surface 149 may be constructed from yarns having a different denier than the technical front surface 155. It should be understood that the technical front surface 155 and the technical back surface 149 are not limited to the structures or configurations explicitly described herein.

[0085] Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that differences in texture and / or characteristics between the technical front surface 155 and the technical back surface 149 of the gusset layers 135, 139 can facilitate moisture transfer from one surface of the gusset layers 135, 139 to the opposite surface of the gusset layers 135, 139. For example, the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 135 may be designed to draw moisture outward from the wearer when the first gusset layer 135 is disposed within the gusset 112 and positioned adjacent to the wearer's body. As the wearer sweats, the first gusset layer 135 can transfer moisture outward from the wearer via capillary action. The moisture can migrate toward the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135. After moisture is provided to the technical backing 149 of the first gusset layer 135, other layers of the gusset 112 (e.g., the third gusset layer 139, if provided, or the second gusset layer 137) can draw the moisture outward from the first gusset layer 135, and thus away from the wearer. Eventually, the moisture may reach the second gusset layer 137, which may be provided as the outermost layer of the gusset 112. The second gusset layer 137 can retain the moisture and / or transport the moisture across the surface and / or throughout the volume of the second gusset layer 137, until the moisture eventually evaporates and dissipates from the garment 100.

[0086] In contrast, the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135 may be provided with a second texture, which may be substantially flat and untextured, as shown in Figure 10B. In other words, in some cases, the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135 may not include pores 151 or other features as described above with reference to Figure 10A. However, in other cases, the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 135 may include pores 151, other features, or may be provided in any other suitable form.

[0087] 11-14, several potential configurations or structures of the gusset 112 are shown. Generally, the gusset 112 may include a first gusset layer 140 and a second gusset layer 142. For example, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 in FIGS. 11-14 may correspond to (and, in some cases, may be substantially similar to) the first gusset layer 135 and the second gusset layer 137 in FIGS. 9A and 9B, respectively. In some cases, the gusset 112 may consist of the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142. However, in other cases, the gusset 112 may include one or more additional layers, such as a third gusset layer 141 positioned between or on either side of the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (see FIG. 14). 9A and 9B. In cases where three or more gusset layers are provided within gusset 112, the technical back surface of the outermost gusset layer (e.g., second gusset layer 142) may abut or be positioned adjacent to the technical back surface of the gusset layer positioned adjacent to the outermost gusset layer (e.g., third gusset layer 141).

[0088] 11 , in some cases, the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of a first gusset layer 140 and a second gusset layer 142, where the first gusset layer 140 is a layer that faces the wearer and the second gusset layer 142 is positioned opposite the wearer's body from the first gusset layer 140. The first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may each include a technical back surface (i.e., technical back surface 149) and a technical front surface (e.g., technical front surface 155). 11, the technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 140 may constitute the wearer-facing surface 146 (see FIG. 8), the technical front surface 155 of the second gusset layer 142 may constitute the outwardly facing surface 144 (see FIG. 7), and the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 140 may be adjacent to (or configured to face) the technical back surface 149 of the second gusset layer. For example, the first gusset layer 140 may correspond to the first gusset layer 135 of FIGS. 9A and 9B, and the second gusset layer 142 may correspond to the second gusset layer 137 of FIGS. 9A and 9B. In certain cases, one or more additional layers of moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbent fabric and / or one or more layers of moisture-resistant or moisture-repellent fabric may be positioned between or on either side of the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (see, e.g., FIG. 14).

[0089] In some cases, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (in addition to the additional layer of gusset 112) may each be provided in the form of a single layer of fabric or material. However, in other cases, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (in addition to the additional layer of gusset 112) may each include two or more separate sub-layers of fabric or material that together make up the first gusset layer 140 or the second gusset layer 142. In the example shown in FIGS. 11-14 , the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may each be provided in the form of two separate layers of fabric. The first gusset layer 140 may include a first wearer-facing sub-layer 150 and a first outward-facing sub-layer 152, and the second gusset layer 142 may include a second wearer-facing sub-layer 154 and a second outward-facing sub-layer 156. However, in other cases, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (and / or additional layers of gusset 112) may include any number of separate layers of fabric or material, which may be provided in any suitable form. Alternatively, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 (and / or additional layers of fabric of gusset 112) may consist of a single layer of fabric or material.

[0090] The first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may comprise substantially similar or different materials. In some cases, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may be provided as natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics, semi-synthetic fabrics, and / or combinations thereof. For example, the first gusset layer 140 may comprise polyester, cotton, nylon, spandex, viscose, modal, lyocell, rayon, other materials, or combinations thereof. In some cases, the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142 may comprise fabric provided in the form of a double-knit semi-jacquard construction including hydrophobic (e.g., 100% polyester 75 / 72) microfiber filament yarn. As an additional example, the second gusset layer 142 may comprise polyester, cotton, nylon, spandex, viscose, modal, lyocell, rayon, other materials, or combinations thereof. Additionally, in some cases, the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142 may be provided in a knitted, double knitted, jersey knitted, ribbed, interlock knitted, and / or jacquard woven or other suitable construction.

[0091] Furthermore, the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and the first outward-facing sublayer 152 of the first gusset layer 140 may be provided in substantially the same configuration (see, e.g., FIG. 11 ) or may be provided in different configurations (see, e.g., FIGS. 12 and 13 ). Similarly, the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142 may be provided in substantially the same configuration (see, e.g., FIGS. 11 , 12 , and 14 ) or may be provided in different configurations (see, e.g., FIG. 13 ). The first gusset layer 140 (e.g., including the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and / or the first outward-facing sublayer 152) may comprise fabrics or materials having different compositions (e.g., synthetic materials, natural materials, blended materials, chemical treatments, chemical modifications, etc.) and different structures (e.g., woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, etc.).

[0092] In some cases, at least a portion of the first gusset layer 140 (e.g., the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and / or the first outward-facing sublayer 152) may be provided in the form of a moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking fabric including an elastic material (e.g., a material that is stretchable to some extent, such as rubber, latex, silicone, elastane, recycled elastane, an organic material with an elastic core, etc.). Thus, the moisture-wicking or moisture-wicking fabric of the first gusset layer 140 may include from at least about 0% elastic material to at least about 50% elastic material, or from at least about 1% elastic material to at least about 25% elastic material, although the first gusset layer 140 may also be composed of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values. For example, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the first gusset layer 140 may be at least about 1% elastic material, or at least about 2% elastic material, or at least about 3% elastic material, or at least about 4% elastic material, or at least about 5% elastic material, or at least about 6% elastic material, or at least about 7% elastic material, or at least about 8% elastic material, or at least about 9% elastic material, or at least about 10% elastic material, or at least about 12% elastic material, or at least about 14% elastic material. The first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least about 16% elastic material, at least about 18% elastic material, at least about 20% elastic material, at least about 22% elastic material, at least about 24% elastic material, at least about 26% elastic material, at least about 28% elastic material, at least about 30% elastic material, at least about 35% elastic material, at least about 40% elastic material, at least about 45% elastic material, or at least about 50% elastic material. Alternatively, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least 0% elastic material to at least 50% elastic material, or at least 1% elastic material to at least 25% elastic material, although the first gusset layer 140 may also be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values.For example, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the first gusset layer 140 may include at least 1% elastic material, or at least 2% elastic material, or at least 3% elastic material, or at least 4% elastic material, or at least 5% elastic material, or at least 6% elastic material, or at least 7% elastic material, or at least 8% elastic material, or at least 9% elastic material, or at least 10% elastic material, or at least 12% elastic material, or at least 14% elastic material, or at least 16% elastic material, or at least 18% elastic material, or at least 20% elastic material, or at least 22% elastic material, or at least 24% elastic material, or at least 26% elastic material, or at least 28% elastic material, or at least 30% elastic material, or at least 35% elastic material, or at least 40% elastic material, or at least 45% elastic material, or at least 50% elastic material.

[0093] In some cases, at least a portion of the first gusset layer 140 may include at least about 50% to at least about 100% polyester fibers, or at least about 75% to at least about 100% polyester fibers, although the first gusset layer 140 may also be composed of polyester fibers with a somewhat smaller percentage than these values. For example, the first gusset layer 140 may be composed of at least about 50% polyester fibers, or at least about 60% polyester fibers, or at least about 75% polyester fibers, or at least about 80% polyester fibers, or at least about 81% polyester fibers, or at least about 82% polyester fibers, or at least about 83% polyester fibers, or at least about 84% polyester fibers, or at least about 85% polyester fibers, or at least about 86% polyester fibers, or at least about 87% polyester fibers, or at least about 88% polyester fibers. The first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least about 89% polyester fibers, or at least about 90% polyester fibers, or at least about 91% polyester fibers, or at least about 92% polyester fibers, or at least about 93% polyester fibers, or at least about 94% polyester fibers, or at least about 95% polyester fibers, or at least about 96% polyester fibers, or at least about 97% polyester fibers, or at least about 98% polyester fibers, or at least about 99% polyester fibers, or at least about 100% polyester fibers. In some cases, at least a portion of the first gusset layer 140 may comprise up to about 100% polyester fibers. Alternatively, at least a portion of the first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least 50% to at least 100% polyester fibers, or at least 75% to at least 100% polyester fibers, although the first gusset layer 140 may also be comprised of polyester fibers with a percentage somewhat less than these values.For example, the first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least 50% polyester fibers, or at least 60% polyester fibers, or at least 75% polyester fibers, or at least 80% polyester fibers, or at least 81% polyester fibers, or at least 82% polyester fibers, or at least 83% polyester fibers, or at least 84% polyester fibers, or at least 85% polyester fibers, or at least 86% polyester fibers, or at least 87% polyester fibers, or at least 88% polyester fibers, or at least 89% polyester fibers, or at least 90% polyester fibers, or at least 91% polyester fibers, or at least 92% polyester fibers, or at least 93% polyester fibers, or at least 94% polyester fibers, or at least 95% polyester fibers, or at least 96% polyester fibers, or at least 97% polyester fibers, or at least 98% polyester fibers, or at least 99% polyester fibers, or at least 100% polyester fibers. In certain cases, at least a portion of the first gusset layer 140 may include up to 100% polyester fibers.

[0094] In other cases, at least a portion of first gusset layer 140 may comprise a blend of polyester and spandex. In such cases, at least a portion of first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least about 0% spandex to at least about 25% spandex, although first gusset layer 140 may also be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values. For example, the first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least about 1% spandex, or at least about 3% spandex, or at least about 5% spandex, or at least about 6% spandex, or at least about 7% spandex, or at least about 8% spandex, or at least about 9% spandex, or at least about 10% spandex, or at least about 11% spandex, or at least about 12% spandex, or at least about 13% spandex, or at least about 14% spandex, or at least about 15% spandex, or at least about 16% spandex, or at least about 17% spandex, or at least about 18% spandex, or at least about 19% spandex, or at least about 20% spandex, or at least about 23% spandex, or at least about 25% spandex. Alternatively, at least a portion of first gusset layer 140 may comprise between at least 0% spandex and at least 25% spandex, although first gusset layer 140 may also be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values.For example, the first gusset layer 140 may comprise at least 1% spandex, or at least 3% spandex, or at least 5% spandex, or at least 6% spandex, or at least 7% spandex, or at least 8% spandex, or at least 9% spandex, or at least 10% spandex, or at least 11% spandex, or at least 12% spandex, or at least 13% spandex, or at least 14% spandex, or at least 15% spandex, or at least 16% spandex, or at least 17% spandex, or at least 18% spandex, or at least 19% spandex, or at least 20% spandex, or at least 23% spandex, or at least 25% spandex. In other cases, however, the first gusset layer 140 may comprise a percentage of spandex somewhat less than or even greater than these values.

[0095] In addition to the examples given above, first gusset layer 140 (or portions thereof) may include any percentage of polyester fibers that falls within the range bounded by any minimum and any maximum values ​​as described above. Similarly, in some cases, first gusset layer 140 (or portions thereof) may include any percentage of spandex that falls within the range bounded by any minimum and any maximum values ​​as described above. In still other cases, first gusset layer 140 may include materials other than those explicitly described herein.

[0096] In some cases, the first gusset layer 140 may include a double-knit fabric constructed from polyester yarn, which may include up to about 100% polyester fibers (or up to 100% polyester fibers). For example, the first gusset layer 140 may include a 100% polyester double-knit (e.g., weft knit) fabric. In other cases, the first gusset layer 140 may also include a ribbed, interlocked, and / or jacquard-woven fabric made of natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic fabrics (including blends thereof). The technical front surface 155 of the first gusset layer 140 may be textured (e.g., with a geometric or other pattern, multiple pores, or other features) to provide a soft, plush texture against the wearer's skin and / or to facilitate moisture absorption, wicking, and / or transport (see FIG. 10A). The technical back surface 149 of the second gusset layer 142 may be substantially flat and untextured (see FIG. 10B). In particular, a substantially flat and untextured fabric surface may be more conducive to further modification, such as lamination.

[0097] In some cases of the gusset 112, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 (e.g., the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and / or the second outward-facing sublayer 156) may comprise up to about 100% cotton fibers. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise between about 50% and about 100% cotton fibers, or between about 75% and about 100% cotton fibers, although the second gusset layer 142 may also be comprised of a somewhat smaller percentage of cotton fibers than these values. For example, the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least about 50% cotton fibers, or at least about 55% cotton fibers, or at least about 60% cotton fibers, or at least about 65% cotton fibers, or at least about 70% cotton fibers, or at least about 75% cotton fibers, or at least about 80% cotton fibers, or at least about 85% cotton fibers, or at least about 90% cotton fibers, or at least about 95% cotton fibers, or at least about 100% cotton fibers. In certain cases, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise about 100% cotton fibers. Alternatively, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise between 50% and 100% cotton fibers, or between 75% and 100% cotton fibers, although the second gusset layer 142 may also be comprised of a somewhat smaller percentage of cotton fibers than these values. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least 50% cotton fibers, or at least 55% cotton fibers, or at least 60% cotton fibers, or at least 65% cotton fibers, or at least 70% cotton fibers, or at least 75% cotton fibers, or at least 80% cotton fibers, or at least 85% cotton fibers, or at least 90% cotton fibers, or at least 95% cotton fibers, or at least 100% cotton fibers. In certain cases, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise 100% cotton fibers.

[0098] In other cases, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 (e.g., the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and / or the second outward-facing sublayer 156) may comprise a blend of a natural material (e.g., cotton, wool, linen, hemp, etc.) and an elastic material (e.g., a material that is stretchable to some extent, such as rubber, latex, silicone, elastane, recycled elastane, organic materials with elastic cores, etc.). In such cases, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least about 1% elastic material to at least about 25% elastic material, although the second gusset layer 142 may also be composed of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least about 1% elastic material, or at least about 2% elastic material, or at least about 3% elastic material, or at least about 4% elastic material, or at least about 5% elastic material, or at least about 6% elastic material, or at least about 7% elastic material, or at least about 8% elastic material, or at least about 9% elastic material, or at least about 10% elastic material, or at least about 12% elastic material, or at least about 14% elastic material, or at least about 16% elastic material, or at least about 18% elastic material, or at least about 20% elastic material, or at least about 22% elastic material, or at least about 24% elastic material, or at least about 25% elastic material. Alternatively, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least 1% elastic material to at least 25% elastic material, although the second gusset layer 142 may also be composed of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values.For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least 1% elastic material, or at least 2% elastic material, or at least 3% elastic material, or at least 4% elastic material, or at least 5% elastic material, or at least 6% elastic material, or at least 7% elastic material, or at least 8% elastic material, or at least 9% elastic material, or at least 10% elastic material, or at least 12% elastic material, or at least 14% elastic material, or at least 16% elastic material, or at least 18% elastic material, or at least 20% elastic material, or at least 22% elastic material, or at least 24% elastic material, or at least 25% elastic material.

[0099] In some cases, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include a natural material (e.g., cotton) in an amount of at least about 75% to at least about 100%, although the second gusset layer 142 may also be composed of a natural material such as cotton in a somewhat smaller proportion than these values. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least about 75% natural material, or at least about 78% natural material, or at least about 80% natural material, or at least about 81% natural material, or at least about 82% natural material, or at least about 83% natural material, or at least about 84% natural material, or at least about 85% natural material, or at least about 86% natural material, or at least about 87% natural material, or at least about 88% natural material, or at least about 89% natural material, or at least about 90% natural material, or at least about 91% natural material, or at least about 92% natural material, or at least about 93% natural material, or at least about 94% natural material, or at least about 95% natural material, or at least about 98% natural material, or at least about 100% natural material. Alternatively, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least 75% to at least 100% natural material (e.g., cotton), although the second gusset layer 142 may be comprised of a somewhat smaller proportion of natural material than these values. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least 75% natural material, or at least 78% natural material, or at least 80% natural material, or at least 81% natural material, or at least 82% natural material, or at least 83% natural material, or at least 84% natural material, or at least 85% natural material, or at least 86% natural material, or at least 87% natural material, or at least 88% natural material, or at least 89% natural material, or at least 90% natural material, or at least 91% natural material, or at least 92% natural material, or at least 93% natural material, or at least 94% natural material, or at least 95% natural material, or at least 98% natural material, or at least 100% natural material.

[0100] In other cases, at least a portion of second gusset layer 142 may include a blend of polyester and spandex. In such cases, at least a portion of second gusset layer 142 may include at least about 1% spandex to at least about 25% spandex, although second gusset layer 142 may be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values. For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may comprise at least about 1% spandex, or at least about 2% spandex, or at least about 3% spandex, or at least about 4% spandex, or at least about 5% spandex, or at least about 6% spandex, or at least about 7% spandex, or at least about 8% spandex, or at least about 9% spandex, or at least about 10% spandex, or at least about 12% spandex, or at least about 14% spandex, or at least about 16% spandex, or at least about 18% spandex, or at least about 20% spandex, or at least about 22% spandex, or at least about 24% spandex, or at least about 25% spandex. Alternatively, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least 1% spandex to at least 25% spandex, although the second gusset layer 142 may be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values.For example, at least a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may include at least 1% spandex, or at least 2% spandex, or at least 3% spandex, or at least 4% spandex, or at least 5% spandex, or at least 6% spandex, or at least 7% spandex, or at least 8% spandex, or at least 9% spandex, or at least 10% spandex, or at least 12% spandex, or at least 14% spandex, or at least 16% spandex, or at least 18% spandex, or at least 20% spandex, or at least 22% spandex, or at least 24% spandex, or at least 25% spandex. In further instances, the second gusset layer 142 (e.g., the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and / or the second outward-facing sublayer 156) may comprise other materials, such as any natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic fabric (including blends thereof).

[0101] In cases where the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142 comprise a synthetic material such as polyester (e.g., polyester yarn, a fabric comprising polyester, etc.), the polyester may be provided with a fabric weight selected for desired moisture management properties. In some cases, the first material may be provided with a fabric weight of at least about 135 grams per square meter (gsm) to at least about 185 gsm (or at least about 135 gsm to at least about 185 gsm), although the first fabric may be provided with a fabric weight less than or greater than these values. For example, in some cases, a first material may be used that has a weight of at least about 135 gsm, or at least about 138 gsm, or at least about 141 gsm, or at least about 144 gsm, or at least about 146 gsm, or at least about 148 gsm, or at least about 150 gsm, or at least about 152 gsm, or at least about 154 gsm, or at least about 156 gsm, or at least about 158 ​​gsm, or at least about 160 gsm, or at least about 162 gsm, or at least about 164 gsm, or at least about 166 gsm, or at least about 168 gsm, or at least about 170 gsm, or at least about 172 gsm, or at least about 174 gsm, or at least about 176 gsm, or at least about 178 gsm, or at least about 180 gsm, or about 185 gsm or less. Alternatively, the first material may be provided with a weight of at least 135 gsm, or at least 138 gsm, or at least 141 gsm, or at least 144 gsm, or at least 146 gsm, or at least 148 gsm, or at least 150 gsm, or at least 152 gsm, or at least 154 gsm, or at least 156 gsm, or at least 158 ​​gsm, or at least 160 gsm, or at least 162 gsm, or at least 164 gsm, or at least 166 gsm, or at least 168 gsm, or at least 170 gsm, or at least 172 gsm, or at least 174 gsm, or at least 176 gsm, or at least 178 gsm, or at least 180 gsm, or 185 gsm or less.

[0102] In other cases, the second material may be provided as the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142. The second material may provide enhanced moisture management properties to the wearer, for example. In certain cases, the second material may be provided with a weight of at least about 240 gsm, or at least about 242 gsm, or at least about 245 gsm, or at least about 250 gsm, or at least about 255 gsm, or at least about 260 gsm, or at least about 265 gsm, or at least about 270 gsm, or at least about 275 gsm, or at least about 280 gsm, or at least about 285 gsm, or at least about 290 gsm, or up to about 295 gsm. Alternatively, the second material may be provided with a weight of at least 240 gsm, or at least 242 gsm, or at least 245 gsm, or at least 250 gsm, or at least 255 gsm, or at least 260 gsm, or at least 265 gsm, or at least 270 gsm, or at least 275 gsm, or at least 280 gsm, or at least 285 gsm, or at least 290 gsm, or 295 gsm or less. In some cases, the second material may be provided with a fabric weight somewhat less than or even greater than those values ​​described herein. In some cases, the second material may be provided with a greater surface area compared to the first material (e.g., due to surface texture or other aspects of the material), such that the second material is capable of trapping, capturing, and / or transporting more moisture than the first material.

[0103] In still other cases, one or more layers of gusset 112 may be constructed from a fabric having a weight that falls within any of the values ​​or ranges set forth above for the first and second materials. Alternatively, one or more layers of gusset 112 may be constructed from a fabric having a weight that differs from any of the values ​​or ranges given herein.

[0104] The fabric weights listed above may, in some cases, apply only to the fabric including first gusset layer 140 (e.g., first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and / or first outward-facing sublayer 152) and / or second gusset layer 142 (e.g., second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and / or second outward-facing sublayer 156) and may not include the weight of any additional material (e.g., laminate film) applied to the fabric. However, in other cases, one or more layers of gusset 112 may include a hydrophobic film, as described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 12, and the fabric weights listed above may include the film.

[0105] In some cases, the second gusset layer 142 may comprise a jersey knit fabric constructed from cotton yarn, where the cotton yarn comprises up to about 100% cotton fibers (or up to 100% cotton fibers). In other cases, the second gusset layer 142 may also comprise a natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic fabric (including blends thereof), a rib knit, an interlock knit, and / or a jacquard woven fabric. In some cases, the second gusset layer 142 has substantially the same composition as that of other garment portion fabrics, such as the torso portion fabric or the sleeve fabric. As shown in FIGS. 11, 12, and 14, the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 of the second gusset layer 142 may be substantially the same as the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142.

[0106] 11 and 12 , the second gusset layer 142, i.e., one or both of the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142, may be treated with an agent that enhances the second gusset layer 142's ability to repel moisture, such as a durable water repellent (“DWR”). For example, the second gusset layer 142 may be treated with HeiQ Eco-Dry, a non-polyfluorinated chemical (“PFC”) available from HeiQ Materials AG (Zurich, Switzerland), or the second gusset layer 142 may be treated with other suitable water repellent or water-resistant agents. Application of a DWR treatment to a fabric can modify the surface energy characteristics of the fabric, such as reducing the surface tension of the fabric surface, thereby reducing the adsorption of water droplets to the fabric surface so that water droplets can roll off or otherwise disperse from the fabric surface. For example, a DWR treatment or finish may be applied to one or both of the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142 to impart moisture resistant properties to the second gusset layer 142. It should be understood that the DWR treatments, agents, or finishes described herein may be applied to any surface of any of the fabrics provided within the garment 100.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 12 , in some cases, the gusset 112 may include a hydrophobic film 153. For example, the hydrophobic film 153 may be positioned on the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142 (e.g., the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142 may be laminated to, bonded to, or otherwise attached to the hydrophobic film 153). The hydrophobic film 153 may be configured to be substantially impermeable to water while allowing moisture vapor to pass through. As shown in FIG. 12 , in some cases, the hydrophobic film 153 may be provided as a component of the first gusset layer 140 and may be positioned between the first outward-facing sublayer 152 and the second wearer-facing sublayer 154. For example, the hydrophobic film 153 may be laminated or otherwise attached to the technical back surface 149 of the first gusset layer 140. However, in other cases, the hydrophobic film 153 may be incorporated into or disposed on any of the layers of the gusset 112 .

[0108] In some cases, the hydrophobic film 153 may be provided in the form of a thermoplastic film formed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). However, other suitable thermoplastic films may include polyolefins, polyurethanes, etc. Alternatively, the hydrophobic film 153 may include silicone or any other suitable material. In some cases, the first gusset layer 140 may be treated with a wicking agent to enhance the first gusset layer 140's ability to wick moisture, a stain resistant agent to enhance the first gusset layer 140's ability to repel contaminants / soil, an odor control agent, and / or a sanitary agent (e.g., antimicrobial). In certain cases, a single agent, such as Agion® (available from Sciessent, Beverly, Massachusetts, USA), may provide both odor control and sanitary (e.g., antimicrobial) benefits. In some cases, the wicking agent, stain resistant agent, and / or sanitary agent may be provided on or in the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and the first outward-facing sublayer 152. 12, the wicking, stain repellent, and / or sanitary agent may be provided on or in only the outwardly facing sublayer 152. It should be understood that garments 100 including gussets 112 may omit the hydrophobic film 153, the wicking, stain repellent, and / or sanitary agent.

[0109] Depending on the desired characteristics of the gusset 112, the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may comprise a single type of fabric or material (e.g., including a fabric including a blend of materials), or the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142 may comprise two or more distinct types of fabric or material. For example, as shown in FIG. 11 , the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and the first outward-facing sublayer 152 of the first gusset layer 140 may be provided in substantially the same configuration, and the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142 may be provided in substantially the same configuration. However, in other cases, the first wearer-facing sublayer 150 and the first outward-facing sublayer 152 of the first gusset layer 140 may be provided in different configurations, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Additionally, in some cases, the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and the second outward-facing sublayer 156 of the second gusset layer 142 may be provided in different configurations, as shown in FIG. 13.

[0110] 13 , in some cases, a portion of the first gusset layer 140 and a portion of the second gusset layer 142 may each include an agent such as a wicking agent, a stain resistant agent, and / or a sanitary agent. For example, a wicking agent, a stain resistant agent, and / or a sanitary agent may be provided on or in the first outward-facing sublayer 152 of the first gusset layer 140 and the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 of the second gusset layer 142. In certain cases, the first outward-facing sublayer 152 may include a first agent and the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 may include a second agent. For example, the first outward-facing sublayer 152 may include a first agent provided in the form of a wicking agent, and the second wearer-facing sublayer 154 may include a second agent provided in the form of a sanitary agent. However, in other cases, the first and second agents may be substantially similar, or the first and second agents may be provided in any suitable form and may be applied to or contained within any suitable portion of the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142.

[0111] 14 , in some cases, the gusset 112 may be provided in the form of three fabric layers, including a first gusset layer 140, a second gusset layer 142, and a third gusset layer 141. The third gusset layer 141 may be positioned between the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142, or the third gusset layer 141 may be positioned on either side of the first gusset layer 140 and / or the second gusset layer 142. For example, as shown in FIG. 14 , in some cases, the gusset 112 may include additional layers of fabric or material (e.g., a fourth gusset layer, a fifth gusset layer, etc.) provided in substantially the same or a different form compared to the third gusset layer 141. The various fabric layers of the gusset 112 may be made from the same or different materials.

[0112] In some cases, first gusset layer 140 may be a wearer-facing layer, and second gusset layer 142 may be visible from the exterior of garment 100. In such cases, third gusset layer 141 may be disposed between first outward-facing sublayer 152 and second wearer-facing sublayer 154. Alternatively, third gusset layer 141 may be provided as a wearer-facing layer or may be visible from the exterior of garment 100. Similar to first gusset layer 140 and second gusset layer 142, third gusset layer 141 may include one or more layers of fabric or material. 14 , third fabric layer 141 includes third wearer-facing sublayer 158 and third outward-facing sublayer 160, where third wearer-facing sublayer 158 and third outward-facing sublayer 160 are provided in substantially the same configuration. However, in other cases, third gusset layer 141 may include more or fewer sublayers, where one or more of the sublayers of third gusset layer 141 may be provided in substantially the same configuration. For example, first gusset layer 141 and third gusset layer 141 may in some cases be substantially similar, where first wearer-facing sublayer 150, first outward-facing sublayer 152, third wearer-facing sublayer 158, and / or third outward-facing sublayer 160 may comprise substantially the same material.

[0113] The third gusset layer 141 (e.g., the third wearer-facing sublayer 158 and / or the third outward-facing sublayer 160) may comprise substantially similar or different materials compared to the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142. For example, in some cases, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may be provided in the form of a moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbent fabric including an elastic material (e.g., a material that is stretchable to some extent, such as rubber, latex, silicone, elastane, recycled elastane, an organic material with an elastic core, etc.). Thus, the moisture-wicking or moisture-absorbent fabric of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least about 1% to at least about 50% elastic material, or at least about 1% to at least about 25% elastic material, although the third gusset layer 141 may be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values. For example, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the third gusset layer 141 may include at least about 1% elastic material, or at least about 2% elastic material, or at least about 3% elastic material, or at least about 4% elastic material, or at least about 5% elastic material, or at least about 6% elastic material, or at least about 7% elastic material, or at least about 8% elastic material, or at least about 9% elastic material, or at least about 10% elastic material, or at least about 12% elastic material, or at least about 14% elastic material, or at least about 16% elastic material, or at least about 18% elastic material, or at least about 20% elastic material, or at least about 22% elastic material, or at least about 24% elastic material, or at least about 25% elastic material. Alternatively, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least 1% to at least 50% elastic material, or at least 1% to at least 25% elastic material, although the third gusset layer 141 may be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of elastic material than these values.For example, the moisture wicking or moisture absorbing fabric of the third gusset layer 141 may include at least 1% elastic material, or at least 2% elastic material, or at least 3% elastic material, or at least 4% elastic material, or at least 5% elastic material, or at least 6% elastic material, or at least 7% elastic material, or at least 8% elastic material, or at least 9% elastic material, or at least 10% elastic material, or at least 12% elastic material, or at least 14% elastic material, or at least 16% elastic material, or at least 18% elastic material, or at least 20% elastic material, or at least 22% elastic material, or at least 24% elastic material, or at least 25% elastic material.

[0114] In some cases, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may include at least about 50% polyester fibers to at least about 100% polyester fibers, or at least about 75% polyester fibers to at least about 100% polyester fibers, although the third gusset layer 141 may also be composed of a somewhat lesser percentage of polyester fibers. For example, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may be at least about 50% polyester fibers, at least about 55% polyester fibers, or at least about 60% polyester fibers, or at least about 75% polyester fibers, or at least about 80% polyester fibers, or at least about 81% polyester fibers, or at least about 82% polyester fibers, or at least about 83% polyester fibers, or at least about 84% polyester fibers, or at least about 85% polyester fibers, or at least about 86% polyester fibers, or at least about 87% polyester fibers, or at least about 88% polyester fibers. The third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least about 88% polyester fibers, or at least about 89% polyester fibers, or at least about 90% polyester fibers, or at least about 91% polyester fibers, or at least about 92% polyester fibers, or at least about 93% polyester fibers, or at least about 94% polyester fibers, or at least about 95% polyester fibers, or at least about 96% polyester fibers, or at least about 97% polyester fibers, or at least about 98% polyester fibers, or at least about 99% polyester fibers, or at least about 100% polyester fibers. In certain cases, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise up to about 100% polyester fibers. Alternatively, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least 50% polyester fibers to at least 100% polyester fibers, or at least 75% polyester fibers to at least 100% polyester fibers, although the third gusset layer 141 may be comprised of polyester fibers with a somewhat smaller percentage than these values.For example, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least 50% polyester fibers, or at least 55% polyester fibers, or at least 60% polyester fibers, or at least 75% polyester fibers, or at least 80% polyester fibers, or at least 81% polyester fibers, or at least 82% polyester fibers, or at least 83% polyester fibers, or at least 84% polyester fibers, or at least 85% polyester fibers, or at least 86% polyester fibers, or at least 87% polyester fibers, or at least 88% polyester fibers, or at least 89% polyester fibers, or at least 90% polyester fibers, or at least 91% polyester fibers, or at least 92% polyester fibers, or at least 93% polyester fibers, or at least 94% polyester fibers, or at least 95% polyester fibers, or at least 96% polyester fibers, or at least 97% polyester fibers, or at least 98% polyester fibers, or at least 99% polyester fibers, or at least 100% polyester fibers. In certain cases, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may include up to 100% polyester fibers.

[0115] In some cases, at least a portion of third gusset layer 141 may include a blend of polyester and spandex. In such cases, at least a portion of third gusset layer 141 may include at least about 1% spandex to at least about 25% spandex, although third gusset layer 141 may also be composed of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values. For example, the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least about 1% spandex, or at least about 2% spandex, or at least about 3% spandex, or at least about 4% spandex, or at least about 5% spandex, or at least about 6% spandex, or at least about 7% spandex, or at least about 8% spandex, or at least about 9% spandex, or at least about 10% spandex, or at least about 12% spandex, or at least about 14% spandex, or at least about 16% spandex, or at least about 18% spandex, or at least about 20% spandex, or at least about 22% spandex, or at least about 24% spandex, or at least about 25% spandex. Alternatively, at least a portion of the third gusset layer 141 may comprise at least 1% spandex to at least 25% spandex, although the third gusset layer 141 may also be comprised of a somewhat greater percentage of spandex than these values.For example, at least a portion of third gusset layer 141 may include at least 1% spandex, or at least 2% spandex, or at least 3% spandex, or at least 4% spandex, or at least 5% spandex, or at least 6% spandex, or at least 7% spandex, or at least 8% spandex, or at least 9% spandex, or at least 10% spandex, or at least 12% spandex, or at least 14% spandex, or at least 16% spandex, or at least 18% spandex, or at least 20% spandex, or at least 22% spandex, or at least 24% spandex, or at least 25% spandex. In other cases, however, third gusset layer 141 may include a percentage of spandex somewhat less than or even greater than these values.

[0116] 14 , in some cases, a portion of second gusset layer 142 and / or a portion of third gusset layer 141 may include an agent such as a wicking agent, a stain resistant agent, and / or a sanitary agent. For example, a wicking agent, a stain resistant agent, and / or a sanitary agent may be provided on or in second wearer-facing sublayer 154, second outward-facing sublayer 156, and / or third outward-facing sublayer 160. In certain cases, second gusset layer 142 may include a first agent and third gusset layer 141 may include a second agent. For example, second wearer-facing sublayer 154 and outward-facing sublayer 156 may include a first wicking agent provided in the form of a sanitary agent, and third outward-facing sublayer 160 may include a second agent provided in the form of a wicking agent or stain resistant agent. However, in other cases, the first and second agents may be substantially similar, or the first and second agents may be provided in any suitable form and may be applied to or contained within any suitable portion of the first gusset layer 140, the second gusset layer 142, and / or the third gusset layer 141. Although not shown in FIG. 14, in some cases, the gusset 112 may include an additional layer (e.g., an additional moisture-absorbing or moisture-adsorbing layer) positioned between or on either side of the first gusset layer 140 and the second gusset layer 142, and the additional layer may be provided in a substantially similar or different form compared to the third gusset layer 141.

[0117] 15-20 illustrate additional non-limiting examples of upper torso garments that may include moisture management portions (e.g., gussets) constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 15 illustrates a garment 200 (e.g., a long-sleeved shirt) provided in the form of a main body 201 including right and left underarm regions 202a and 202b with right and left gussets 212a and 212b. As a further example, FIG. 16 illustrates a garment 300 (e.g., a jacket 300) provided in the form of a main body portion 301 including right and left underarm regions 302a and 302b with right and left gussets 312a and 312b. As a further example, FIG. 17 illustrates a garment 400 (e.g., a dress shirt) provided in the form of a main body 401 including right and left underarm regions 402a and 402b with right and left gussets 412a and 412b. As yet another example, FIG. 18 shows a garment 500 (eg, a V-neck shirt) provided in the form of a body 501 including right and left underarm regions 502a, 502b having right and left gussets 512a, 512b.

[0118] 19 and 20 show a garment 600 provided in the form of a main body portion 601 including right and left underarm regions 602a, 602b having right and left gussets 612a, 612b. The garment 600 may be provided in a configuration substantially similar to any of garments 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500, or may be provided in other configurations not specifically described herein. In some cases, the gussets 612a, 612b of the garment 600 may extend along only a portion of the length of the right and left sleeves 610a, 610b of the garment 600. For example, the gussets 612a, 612b may extend at least partially between the associated seams 626a, 626b and sleeve terminations 603a, 603b, respectively. However, as best shown in FIG. 20, the gussets 612a, 612b may terminate before reaching the sleeve terminations 603a, 603b.

[0119] In certain cases, any of the moisture management gussets described herein with reference to Figures 1-20 may retain their moisture management properties after being laundered. For example, the moisture management gussets of Figures 1-20 may partially, substantially completely, or completely retain their moisture management properties after being washed in a washing machine and / or dried in a dryer. In certain cases, the moisture management gussets of Figures 1-20 may partially, substantially completely, or completely retain their moisture management properties after about 1 to about 50 wash cycles (or 1 to 50 wash cycles), but the moisture management gussets may also retain their moisture management properties after even more wash cycles. For example, the moisture management gussets of Figures 1-20 can partially, substantially completely, or completely retain their moisture management properties after at least about 1 wash cycle, or at least about 3 wash cycles, or at least about 5 wash cycles, or at least about 7 wash cycles, or at least about 10 wash cycles, or at least about 15 wash cycles, or at least about 20 wash cycles, or at least about 25 wash cycles, or at least about 30 wash cycles, or at least about 40 wash cycles, or at least about 50 wash cycles. As an additional example, the moisture management gussets of Figures 1-20 can partially, substantially completely, or completely retain their moisture management properties after at least 1 wash cycle, or at least 3 wash cycles, or at least 5 wash cycles, or at least 7 wash cycles, or at least 10 wash cycles, or at least 15 wash cycles, or at least 20 wash cycles, or at least 25 wash cycles, or at least 30 wash cycles, or at least 40 wash cycles, or at least 50 wash cycles. As used herein, "washing machine" and "dryer" may refer to any current or future machine designed to clean and / or dry clothes. Additionally, as used herein, a "wash cycle" may refer to only washing clothes or both washing and drying clothes.

[0120] As used herein, long-sleeved shirts, jackets, and formal dress shirts may be collectively described as "upper torso garments." Reference numbers used to identify different features in FIGS. 15-20 are similar to reference numbers used throughout this disclosure. Upper torso garments 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 shown in FIGS. 15-20 may be substantially similar to garment 100 of FIGS. 1-8, respectively, and may also provide moisture management benefits to the wearer. As mentioned above, upper torso garments 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 may include gussets 212a, 212b, 312a, 312b, 412a, 412b, 512a, 512b, 612a, and 612b that, when in use or worn, are positioned near the wearer's respective armpits.

[0121] Various characteristics of the garments of Figures 1-20 have been described with reference to one or more values. It is understood that each characteristic described herein may be assigned a distinct value or a range of values ​​consistent with all values ​​described with reference to the characteristic. In addition, it is understood that each characteristic described herein may be assigned a distinct value or a range of values ​​that fall within any minimum and maximum values ​​or ranges described with reference to the characteristic.

[0122] The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing a moisture management garment (e.g., any of garments 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600). The method may include providing one or more of a front torso portion, a rear torso portion, a first sleeve, a second sleeve, a collar, a first gusset, and a second gusset, wherein each of the first gusset and the second gusset comprises a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer. The method may further include joining at least a portion of the collar to the front and rear torso portions, e.g., via collar seams; joining at least a portion of the front torso portion to at least a portion of the rear torso portion, e.g., via shoulder seams; joining at least a portion of each of the first and second sleeves to at least a portion of each of the first and second gussets, respectively, e.g., via gusset seams; joining at least a portion of each of the first and second gussets to at least a portion of the front and rear torso portions, e.g., via gusset seams; joining at least a portion of each of the first and second sleeves to at least a portion of the front and rear torso portions, e.g., via sleeve seams; and / or joining at least a portion of the front torso portion to at least a portion of the rear torso portion, e.g., via side seams. It should be understood that the method may include additional steps or fewer steps than described herein.

[0123] While the above disclosure has been described above with reference to particular instances and examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other instances, examples, applications, modifications, and departures from the above instances, examples, and applications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the above disclosure are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A garment, a body including a first opening positioned opposite a second opening; a first sleeve and a second sleeve each coupled to the body adjacent the second opening; a first gusset disposed at least partially within a first underarm region and coupled to the first sleeve and the body, the first gusset including at least two layers of fabric; Equipped with a first fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is designed to transport moisture; The garment, wherein a second fabric layer of the at least two fabric layers is provided with moisture resistant properties.

2. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the first gusset is substantially symmetrical about a coronal axis of the garment.

3. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the first gusset is asymmetric about a coronal axis of the garment.

4. the body further includes a front body portion integrally formed with a rear body portion; the first gusset is coupled to at least one of the first sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a first gusset seam; The garment of claim 1 , wherein a second gusset is coupled to at least one of the second sleeve, the front torso portion, and the rear torso portion via a second gusset seam.

5. 10. The garment of claim 1, wherein the at least two fabric layers of the first gusset include a third fabric layer disposed between the first and second fabric layers, the third fabric layer designed to transport moisture.

6. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the first gusset is comprised of the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.

7. 10. The garment of claim 1, wherein the first fabric layer includes a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer, and the second fabric layer includes a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer, the first outward-facing sublayer being laminated with a hydrophobic film comprising a thermoplastic polyurethane.

8. The garment of claim 1 , wherein the first fabric layer includes a technical facing having a plurality of pores designed to transport moisture.

9. the body of the garment includes a first fabric; the second fabric layer of the first gusset comprises a second fabric; the first fabric and the second fabric each include hydrophilic fibers; The garment of claim 1 , wherein a moisture repellent finish is applied to the second fabric.

10. 10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the first fabric layer of the first gusset comprises a third fabric, the third fabric being substantially hydrophobic.

11. A garment, a body, the body comprising: Front fuselage section and rear fuselage section, a neck opening located opposite the waist opening; a left sleeve and a right sleeve connected to the front torso portion and the rear torso portion; a left gusset disposed at least partially within a left underarm region and coupled to the left sleeve and the front and rear torso portions, the left gusset designed to impart moisture management properties to the garment; and a right gusset disposed at least partially within a right underarm region and coupled to the right sleeve and the front and rear torso portions, the right gusset designed to impart moisture management properties to the garment. is provided in the form of each of the left and right gussets includes a first gusset layer having a first periphery and a second gusset layer having a second periphery; The garment, wherein the first periphery is joined to the second periphery.

12. 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the left gusset and the right gusset each include a third gusset layer, and the first gusset layer, the second gusset layer, and the third gusset layer are substantially coextensive.

13. the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset are joined to each other via a bond; the left gusset is connected to the front torso portion, the back torso portion, and the left sleeve via one or more stitches; 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the right gusset is joined to the front torso portion, the back torso portion, and the right sleeve via one or more seams.

14. 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein neither the left gusset nor the right gusset includes a laminate film.

15. 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer is treated with one or more agents selected from the group consisting of wicking agents, stain repellents, odor control agents, water repellents, water resistance agents, antibacterial agents, antimicrobial agents, sanitary agents, and combinations thereof.

16. 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the first gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset includes a technical face and a technical back, the technical face of the first gusset layer being imparted with a first texture to facilitate moisture wicking and the technical back of the first gusset layer being imparted with a second texture.

17. 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the left gusset and the right gusset each further include a third gusset layer positioned between the first gusset layer and the second gusset layer, the third gusset layer being substantially similar to the first gusset layer.

18. the first gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset includes a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer; the second gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset further includes a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer; the first wearer-facing sublayer and the first outward-facing sublayer of the first gusset layer are provided in substantially the same configuration; 12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the second wearer-facing sublayer and the second outward-facing sublayer of the second gusset layer are provided in substantially the same configuration.

19. the first gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset includes a first wearer-facing sublayer and a first outward-facing sublayer; the second gusset layer of each of the left gusset and the right gusset further includes a second wearer-facing sublayer and a second outward-facing sublayer; the first wearer-facing sublayer and the first outward-facing sublayer of the first gusset layer are provided in different configurations; The garment of claim 11 , wherein the second wearer-facing sublayer and the second outward-facing sublayer of the second gusset layer are provided in different configurations.

20. A garment, a body, the body comprising: Front fuselage section and rear fuselage section, a neck opening located opposite the waist opening; a left sleeve and a right sleeve coupled to the front torso portion and the rear torso portion; and a gusset disposed at least partially within a right underarm region and extending into the front and rear torso portions, the gusset being coupled to the right sleeve and the front and rear torso portions, the gusset being configured to provide moisture management properties to the garment; The gusset a first gusset end, a second gusset end positioned opposite the first gusset end, and a length extending linearly between the first gusset end and the second gusset end; a first width at a second end of the gusset; a second width located between the first width and the first gusset end, the second width being greater than the first width; a third width located between the second width and the first gusset end, the third width being smaller than each of the first width and the second width; a fourth width located between the third width and the first gusset end, the fourth width being smaller than each of the first width, the second width, and the third width; Clothing, as defined by.

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