wader

Abstract

A bootie provides a durable, abrasion and puncture resistant outer layer and a waterproof breathable layer that keeps a user dry if the outer layer is damaged. The bootie is a multilayer construction that can provide comfort and insulation for the user. The bootie may form a portion of a stockingfoot wader.

Description

WADERCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application No. 63 / 764,256, filed February 27, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a bootie that can be useful in a stockingfoot wader. The bootie can provide a durable, comfortable, and breathable material that can then be attached to the bottom of a wader to form the stockingfoot wader.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Stockingfoot waders are a type of waders that are intended to be used with a separable wading boot that is worn over the wader to provide good grip and extra protection while wearing the stockingfoot wader. Neoprene (poiychloroprene) is a rubber-like material that is often used as a waterproof and protective outer layer of a stockingfoot wader. However, since neoprene is not breathable, for waders that are both waterproof and breathable, neoprene is typically used only as a bootie of the stockingfoot wader, i.e., portions surrounding the foot and up to about the ankle. During use, gravel, sand, or other debris can get between the wading boot and the outer layer of the stockingfoot wader and abrade the outer layer of the wader, causing holes that allow water to enter the bootie of the wader, which can result in water entering the bootie during use, which is undesirable.

[0004] There is still a need to create a more durably waterproof and comfortable bootie that can be used in a stockingfoot wader.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a first bootie embodiment, the bootie comprising a foot portion and an ankle portion extending from the foot portion towards a -1- DMSJJS.369715812.1calf portion, wherein at least the foot portion comprises a multilayer laminate having an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer, wherein the inner layer is a textile layer, the intermediate layer is a waterproof breathable layer, and the outer layer is a protective layer; and the inner layer and the intermediate layer are joined to each other using a layer of adhesive; and the outer layer comprises the outermost layer of the bootie. The bootie of this disclosure is a waterproof bootie that can provide enhanced waterproofness in the event that the protective layer develops a hole, allowing water to enter the bootie. In some embodiments, the bootie is waterproof. In other embodiments, the bootie is waterproof and breathable.

[0006] In a second embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of the first embodiment, wherein the foot portion comprises the waterproof breathable layer and the ankle portion does not include an intermediate layer.

[0007] in a third embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the outer layer comprises at least one of polychloroprene, waterproof breathable foam, waterproof foam, a structured textile, ora laminate or a combination thereof.

[0008] In a fourth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the bootie further comprises an insulation layer that is located between the intermediate layer and the outer layer.

[0009] in a fifth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein at least one of the inner layer, the intermediate layer, or the outer layer is elastic.

[0000] In a sixth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the foot portion is contoured to provide arch support to the foot of a user.

[0001] In a seventh embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the outer layer is seamless.

[0012] In an eighth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of first through sixth embodiments, wherein the outer layer comprises two or more panels that are joined together using a stitch, an adhesive, a weld ora combination thereof.

[0013] In a ninth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of the eighth embodiment, wherein the two or more panels are joined together at a seam, and wherein the seam includes a waterproof tape placed over the seam.-2- DMSJJS.369715812.1

[0014] In a tenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the protective layer is a laminate comprising two or more layers of polychloroprene, waterproof breathable foam, waterproof foam, or structured textile.

[0015] In an eleventh embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the bootie further comprises a liner layer that is positioned between the outer layer and the intermediate layer.

[0016] In a twelfth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of previous embodiments, wherein the waterproof breathable layer is a membrane comprising a polyester, a polyurethane, a polyether, a polyamide, a polyurea, a polyolefin, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a fluoropolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene, a copolymer thereof, a composite thereof, ora blend thereof.

[0017] In a thirteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of the eleventh through twelfth embodiments, wherein the liner layer is a knit textile, a woven textile, a nonwoven textile, or a laminate thereof.

[0018] In a fourteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the bootie of any one of the eleventh through thirteenth embodiments, wherein the liner layer comprises natural fibers, synthetic fibers or a combination thereof.

[0019] In a fifteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to a wader comprising the bootie of any one of the previous embodiments.

[0020] In a sixteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the wader of the fifteenth embodiment, wherein the wader is a hip wader, a waist wader or a chest wader.

[0021] In a seventeenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the wader of the any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the wader comprises a left leg portion, and a right leg portion, and, optionally, a trunk portion.

[0022] In an eighteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the wader of the seventeenth embodiment, wherein the left and right leg portions each have a proximal leg portion and a distal leg portion, wherein each distal leg portion comprises a wader bonding area.

[0023] In a nineteenth embodiment, the disclosure relates to the wader of the eighteenth embodiment, wherein the wader bonding area comprises an overlapping portion of the distal portion of the left and / or right leg portion with the ankle portion of the bootie, and wherein the overlapping portion is adhered using a layer of an adhesive.-3- DMSJJS.369715812.1

[0024] In a twentieth embodiment, the disciosure relates to the wader of the nineteenth embodiment, wherein the overlapping portion further comprises a reinforcing band, the reinforcing band comprising a reinforcing textile layer and an adhesive layer.

[0025] In a twenty first embodiment, the disciosure relates to the twentieth embodiment, wherein the reinforcing textile layer comprises synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers.

[0026] In a twenty second embodiment, the disclosure relates to any one of the previous wader embodiments, wherein the left leg portion and the right leg portion, comprise a waterproof breathable laminate, or wherein the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise a waterproof material.

[0027] The foregoing embodiments should not be read to limit or otherwise narrow the scope of any of the inventive concepts otherwise provided by the present disclosure. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature rather than restrictive in nature.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0028] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 1 shows a view of a bootie according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, turned inside out, without the inner layer.

[0030] FIG. 2 shows a view of the bootie of FIG. 1, turned inside out, with the inner layer attached to the intermediate layer.

[0031] FIG. 3 shows a view of the bootie of FIG. 1 turned right side out, showing the protective layer with seam tape covering the seams joining each panel.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The disclosures of all cited patent and non-patent literature are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.-4- DMSJJS.369715812.1

[0033] As used herein, the term “embodiment” or “disclosure” is not meant to be limiting, but applies generally to any of the embodiments defined in the claims or described herein. These terms are used interchangeably herein.

[0034] Unless otherwise disclosed, the terms “a” and “an” as used herein are intended to encompass one or more (i.e., at least one) of a referenced feature.

[0035] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be more readily understood, by those of ordinary skill in the art from reading the following detailed description. It is to be appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described above and below in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single element. Conversely, various features of the disclosure that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination. In addition, references to the singular may also include the plural (for example, “a” and “an” may refer to one or more) unless the context specifically states otherwise.

[0036] The use of numerical values in the various ranges specified in this application, unless expressly indicated otherwise, are stated as approximations as though the minimum and maximum values within the stated ranges were both proceeded by the word “about”. In this manner, slight variations above and below the stated ranges can be used to achieve substantially the same results as values within the ranges. Also, the disclosure of these ranges is intended as a continuous range including each and every value between the minimum and maximum values.

[0037] As used herein, the phrase “stockingfoot wader” is intended to mean a waterproof article of clothing that covers a user’s feet and extends from the feet to at least to the upper leg area of the user. In some embodiments, the stockingfoot wader can extend to the waist of the user or, in other embodiments, it can extend at least to the chest of the user. A stockingfoot wader has a relatively soft foot covering area that, during use, is intended to be covered by another foot covering, generally a separate and removable boot, that can provide a higher level of durability to the stockingfoot wader when the user is traversing terrain that might damage the foot and ankle area of the stockingfoot wader. In contrast, a bootfoot wader has a boot permanently attached to or integrated with the wader.

[0038] As used herein, the phrase “protective layer” means a waterproof layer or a waterproof breathable layer that is the outermost layer of the bootie. The protective layer is a layer that is relatively thicker and / or heavier when compared to the inner layer -5- DMSJJS.369715812.1and the intermediate layer. The protective layer can protect the intermediate and inner layers of the bootie from abrasion and puncture. Being the outermost layer of the bootie, the protective layer can provide resistance to the formation of holes when a user is wearing the bootie and walking over terrain that may contain sticks, rocks, or other objects. In the event of a hole being formed in the protective layer, the intermediate layer can maintain the waterproofness of the bootie to the user. Additionally, if a hole is formed in the protective layer, the user can repair the layer, lengthening the life of a wader comprising the bootie.

[0039] As used herein and unless otherwise specified, the word ‘fiber’ is intended to mean a fiber, a filament, or a yarn. A fiber typically has a finite length, for example, up to 30 centimeters, a filament has essentially infinite length, for example, a meter or more, and a yarn is a strand of one or more fibers and / or filaments.

[0040] The present disclosure relates to a bootie, wherein the bootie comprises i) a foot portion; and ii) an ankle portion that extends from the foot portion towards a calf portion. The bootie comprises a multilayer laminate having an inner layer, an intermediate layer and an outer layer. The inner layer is a textile layer, the intermediate layer is a waterproof breathable layer, and the outer layer is a protective layer, wherein the inner layer and the intermediate layer are joined to each other using a layer of adhesive, and the protective layer and the outer layer forms the outermost layer of the bootie. The bootie may further comprise one or more of an insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer is located between the intermediate layer and the outer layer, and / or between the intermediate layer and the inner layer. The bootie may also comprise a liner layer, wherein the liner layer is positioned between the outer layer and the intermediate layer.

[0041] The bootie of this disclosure is particularly useful as a portion of a stockingfoot wader that covers the foot and ankle of a user. As part of a wader, the bootie is permanently attached to the leg portion of the stockingfoot wader, and can provide a high level of durability, waterproofness, and comfort to the user. A user typically wears a separate boot over the bootie portion of the stockingfoot wader in order to provide an additional layer of protection and to provide better grip and durability when walking or standing on land or in water.

[0042] The bootie 10 is a portion of a stockingfoot wader that covers at least the foot of a userand comprises a foot portion 101 and an ankle portion 102 as shown in FIG. 1. The ankle portion 102 extends from the foot portion 101 towards the calf portion and can vary in length as needed. The bootie is a multilayer laminate that comprises at least -6- DMSJJS.369715812.1the inner layer, the intermediate layer, and the outer layer, and the inner layer and the intermediate layer are joined to each other by a layer of adhesive. Similarly, the intermediate layer and the outer layers are joined to each other using adhesive. Any of the known lamination or textile adhesives can be used for the layers of adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive layers can be a breathable adhesive, a nonbreathable adhesive, an elastic adhesive, a non-elastic adhesive, a nonbreathable and elastic or non-elastic adhesive, or a breathable and elastic or non-elastic adhesive. The layer of adhesive can be a discontinuous layer of adhesive, a continuous layer of adhesive, or a layer of a powder adhesive. In some embodiments, the bootie further comprises an insulation layer and / or a liner layer that are independently located between the inner layer and the intermediate layer or between the intermediate layer and the outer layer.

[0043] INNER LAYER

[0044] The inner layer of the bootie is a textile layer. Any suitable textile can be used, for example, a knit textile, a woven textile, a nonwoven textile or a laminate thereof. Suitable textiles for the inner layer can include, for example, natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof. Natural fibers can include, for example, cotton, wool, silk, jute, plant fibers, bamboo, cellulose, ora combination thereof. Suitable synthetic fibers can include, for example, nylon, polyester, polyurethane, aramid, polyolefin, ora combination thereof. Blends of natural and synthetic fibers can also be used, for example, a blend of nylon and cotton, or a blend of polyester and cotton. In some embodiments, the inner layer is elastic. The elasticity of the inner layer can be a function of the fiber type, for example, by incorporating polyurethane (elastane) fibers; a function of the textile type, for example, knit textiles often have some inherent elastic properties; or a function of both the fiber type and the textile type.

[0045] The weight of the inner layer can be in the range of from 20 to 100 grams per square meter (gsm). In other embodiments, the basis weight of the inner layer can be in the range of from 20 to 90 gsm, or 20 to 90 gsm, or from 25 to 80 gsm or from 25 to 75 gsm.

[0046] Any of the known methods may be used to form the inner layer into a foot-shape sock, that is, an article covering the foot. The inner layer can be formed into the desired shape using a single piece of textile, using multiple pieces of textile, ora laminate of two or more layers. The inner layer can include one or more panels that are stitched or adhered together. In some embodiments, multiple panels can be joined together by -7- DMSJJS.369715812.1stitching, adhesive, or welding to produce the inner layer in a foot-shape sock. In other embodiments, the inner layer may be a knit sock comprising a single knit textile. In some embodiments, the inner layer is a durable, elastic knit textile layer. In other embodiments, the inner layer is produced from multiple panels that are stitched, welded or adhesively joined together.

[0047] The inner layer can also comprise a layer of adhesive on at least a portion of an outer surface of the inner layer, i.e., the surface that is intended to be in contact with the intermediate layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer can be applied to the intermediate layer, for example, the inner surface of the intermediate layer. Adhesives suitable for use can be any one of the known textile and / or lamination adhesives. In some embodiments, the layer of adhesive can be applied in a discontinuous manner to one or both of the inner layer and / or the intermediate layer. In other embodiments, the adhesive layer can be applied in a continuous manner to one or both of the inner layer and / or the intermediate layer.

[0048] The inner layer covers at least the foot portion of the bootie. In some embodiments, the inner layer covers the foot portion of the bootie and can further extend into the ankle portion. In general, the inner layer will cover the same or will cover a larger area of the bootie when compared to the intermediate layer. In some embodiments, the inner layer and the intermediate layer are sock-shaped, are essentially the same size, and are stitched together at a foot insertion opening.

[0049] INTERMEDIATE LAYER

[0050] In combination with any of the inner layer embodiments described above, the bootie also comprises an intermediate layer that is a waterproof layer or is a waterproof breathable layer. The intermediate layer can be joined to the inner layer using a layer of adhesive and / or by stitching the inner layer and the intermediate layer. In some embodiments, the intermediate layer can be an elastic layer that has both stretch and recovery properties. The intermediate layer can be any of the known waterproof breathable layers, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride, fluorinated ethylene propylene, perfluoroalkoxy alkane, modified polytetrafluoroethylene polymers, tetrafluoroethylene copolymers, polyolefin, polyethylene, polypropylene, expanded polyolefins, expanded polyethylene (ePE), expanded polypropylene (ePP), polyurethane (PU), polyester (PES), polyether, polyether urethane, polyetherester, polyetherester urethane, polyamide, polyester sulfone, poly (p-xylylene), or copolymers, blends, composites or -8- DMSJJS.369715812.1laminates thereof. In some embodiments, suitable waterproof breathable layers can include, for example, polymers as taught in the following patents, the contents of each are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, porous poly-p-xylylene as taught in U. S. Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0032069 to Sbriglia; expanded ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (eUHMWPE) as taught in U. S. Patent No. 9,926,416 to Sbriglia; porous ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene as taught in U. S. Patent 12,043,713 to Bell; porous ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene as taught in US Patent Application No. 2021 / 0332202 to Bell; porous polyethylene-co-tetrafluoroethylene as taught in U. S. Patent No. 9,932,429 to Sbriglia; porous polylactic acid as taught in U. S. Patent No. 9,732,184 to Sbriglia, et al.; and porous vinylidene fluoride-co-tetrafluoroethylene or trifluoroethylene polymers as taught in U. S. Patent No. 9,441,088 to Sbriglia and copolymers and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the intermediate layer is a porous ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene as taught in US 12,043,713 or US 2021 / 0332202.

[0051] In some embodiments, the intermediate layer covers the foot portion of the bootie. In other embodiments, the intermediate layer covers the foot portion of the bootie and can further extend into the ankle portion. In other embodiments, the intermediate layer is in the foot portion only and the ankle portion is free from the intermediate layer. If the intermediate layer extends into the ankle portion of the bootie, it can extend anywhere from just above the foot portion to the top portion of the bootie.

[0052] The intermediate layer can be formed into a foot-shape sock in any of the known ways in the art. The intermediate layer can be a single piece that is formed into the foot shape sock. In other embodiments, two or more pieces of the intermediate layer may be joined together to form the foot shape sock, where the joining of the two or more pieces is by adhesive, stitching, or welding. In some embodiments, two shaped pieces of the intermediate layer are laid flat, and a portion of the edges are joined together, forming a cavity and leaving an opening at the top of the foot portion or in the ankle portion where a user’s foot can be inserted into the formed cavity. The joined edges of the intermediate layer formed from two or more individual panels may be covered to provide a waterproof seam. In some embodiments, a seam tape may be used to cover the seams of a multi-panel intermediate layer.

[0053] OUTER LAYER

[0054] The bootie also comprises an outer layer that is a layer that can protect the underlying layers, that is, the inner layer and the intermediate layer. During use, it is not -9- DMSJJS.369715812.1uncommon for stones, dirt, or other debris to enter a boot worn over the stockingfoot wader and lodge in between the boot and the bootie. The outer layer, sometimes referred to herein as a protective layer, is a durable layer that can resist hole formation that might be caused by stones, dirt, or other debris. In the event that a hole does form in the protective layer, the bootie will not allow water to enter the bootie due to the presence of the intermediate layer. After use, the bootie can be examined, and in the even that damage is found, the damage can be repaired.

[0055] The protective layer covers the entirety of the bootie. The outer layer comprises polychloroprene (neoprene), a waterproof breathable foam, a waterproof foam, a structured textile, a laminate thereof, ora combination thereof. In other embodiments, the outer layer can be a waterproof material incorporating at least one waterproof breathable vent, for example, as taught in US Patent no. 11,116,282, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be elastic, for example, having stretch and recovery properties. For example, neoprene is an elastic material that is durable and waterproof and can be used as the outer layer for the bootie. In other embodiments, the outer layer can be a waterproof foam or a waterproof and breathable foam. In still further embodiments, the outer layer can be a structured textile. A structured textile is a textile that due to its construction methods is abrasion- and puncture-resistant. A structured textile may or may not be waterproof. In some embodiments, the structured textile can be a woven or a knit textile comprising a synthetic polymer, for example, nylon and / or polyester, optionally containing elastane fibers for stretch. The structured textile is typically a textile having a weight in the range of from 70 to 200 grams per square meter (gsm). In other embodiments, the structured textile is a textile having a weight in the range of from 70 to 190 gsm, or from 70 to 180 gsm, or from 70 to 170 gsm, or from 70 to 160 gsm, or from 70 to 150 gsm, or from 70 to 140 gsm, or from 70 to 130 gsm, or from 70 to 120 gsm, or from 70 to 110 gsm, or from 70 to 100 gsm. In still other embodiments, the outer layer is a structured textile comprising a woven nylon textile and having a weight in the range of from 70 to 150 gsm.

[0056] The selection of the outer layer determines whether or not the bootie is waterproof or the bootie is waterproof and breathable. For example, polychloroprene is a durable material that is waterproof, but is not breathable. Therefore, a bootie comprising a polychloroprene outer layer is a waterproof bootie and is not breathable.-10- DMSJJS.369715812.1The selection of a waterproof and breathable foam outer layer, optionally coupled with a structured textile, would produce a waterproof and breathable bootie.

[0057] In some embodiments, the protective layer is a laminate of one of polychloroprene, waterproof foam, or waterproof breathable foam with a structured textile. The structured textile can be applied to the outermost layer of the polychloroprene or one of the foam layers so that the structured textile is the outermost layer of the bootie. The addition of the structured textile layer can provide a protective layer that has higher abrasion and puncture resistance than any one of the layers alone.

[0058] The protective layer covers the intermediate layer in the foot portion, and extends from the foot portion to the ankle portion towards the calf portion. The length of the ankle portion can be variable, but should be long enough to provide a length of material so that the wader can be joined to the bootie, for example, at least 1 centimeter past the foot portion. In other embodiments, the ankle portion extends in the range of from at least 1 centimeter to about 50 centimeters from the foot portion towards the knee of a user. In other embodiments, the ankle portion extends in the range of from at least 5 centimeters (cm) to about 50 cm from the foot portion towards the knee of a user, or from about 10 cm to 50 cm or from about 20 cm to about 50 cm, or from about 30 cm to about 50 cm from the foot portion towards the knee portion.

[0059] In some embodiments, the ankle portion of the bootie, specifically, a terminal end of the ankle portion closest to the knee of a user, may have a reinforcing band 155, as shown in FIG. 3, around the circumference of the terminal end of the bootie that can help to create a permanent and durable bond between the bootie and the wader. The reinforcing band can be any of the textiles listed above for the liner layer. In some embodiments, the reinforcing band can be a textile with a relatively open structure, allowing an adhesive to flow through the reinforcing band to contact the protective layer, thereby forming a durable waterproof seal between the protective layer and the material of the wader.

[0060] The outer layer can be constructed from a single piece that is produced without seams. In other embodiments, the outer layer comprises two or more panels that are joined together using a stitch, an adhesive, a weld or a combination thereof. In still further embodiments, the outer layer comprises two or more panels that are joined together using a stitch, an adhesive, a weld or a combination thereof and the seams joining the two or more panels together are made waterproof using a waterproof tape placed over the seam. The waterproof tape can be applied to the seam on the outside -11- DMS_US.369715812.1of the outer layer, to the inside of the outer layer, or to both the inner and outer side of the outer layer.

[0061] INSULATION LAYER

[0062] In some embodiments, the bootie can further comprise a layer of insulation, for example, a layer of a waterproof breathable foam insulation, a loft insulation, an aerogel insulation, or a combination thereof. The insulation layer can be located between the intermediate layer and the protective layer, it can be located between the intermediate layer and the inner layer, or layers of insulation can be located between both the protective layer and the intermediate layer and between the intermediate layer and the inner layer. The insulation layer can provide additional warmth and comfort to the user, especially in cold conditions. In some embodiments, the insulation is a layer of a waterproof breathable polyurethane foam. In some embodiments, the insulation can have stretch and recovery properties.

[0063] Each of the inner layer, the intermediate layer, the protective layer, and the optional insulation layer can be adhered to the adjacent layer(s) using an adhesive layer. Each of the adhesive layers can be chosen independently from the other adhesive layers and each adhesive layer can be independently applied as continuous or discontinuous layer of adhesive. In some embodiments, each adhesive layer can be applied as a discontinuous layer of adhesive.

[0064] LINER LAYER

[0065] If desired, the bootie can further comprise a liner layer that is positioned between the outer layer and the intermediate layer. The liner layer (or liner) can provide durability to the intermediate layer. In some embodiments, the liner layer is a textile layer adhered to the intermediate and outer layers using a layer of adhesive as described above. The liner is typically a relatively open textile. As used herein, open textile means a layer of a knit, woven or nonwoven textile that has openings through the thickness of the textile that allow the adhesive to flow from one surface of the textile to the other. In some embodiments, the openings will be in the range of from 0.1 square millimeters to 25 square millimeters (mm2). Therefore, the layer of adhesive that bonds the outer layer to the intermediate layer will contact both of those layers after flowing through the liner.

[0066] BOOTIE FORMATION

[0067] Each of the inner layer, the intermediate layer and the outer layer can be formed independently of each other and joined together to form the bootie. Each of these layers -12- DMS_US.369715812.1can independently be constructed of a single piece or can be constructed of multiple pieces (or panels) that are joined together via one or more stitches, welds, or adhesive joints. In some embodiments, the various layers of the bootie are adhered to one another wherein the outer layer is placed on a last, followed by the intermediate layer and then the inner layer. In this embodiment, to produce the bootie, each of the inner layer, the intermediate layer, and the outer layer is inverted, or turned inside out. Once each layer is inside out, they are placed on the last, with the outer layer place onto the last, followed by the intermediate layer and finally, the inner layer, with an adhesive layer in between each layer. For example, the inverted outer layer is placed on the last followed by application of a continuous or discontinuous layer of adhesive. The inverted intermediate layer is then placed on the adhesive layer. These two layers can be joined together by the application of heat and / or pressure to join the outer layer and the intermediate layer. An additional layer of adhesive can then be applied to the intermediate layer, the inverted inner layer can then be placed on the last over the adhesive layer, and the bootie formed by the addition of heat and / or pressure.Alternatively, the outer layer, the intermediate layer and the inner layer can be placed on the last with an adhesive layer in between each layer. The three layers can then be bonded together by one or more applications of heat and / or pressure to form the bootie.

[0068] In other embodiments, the bootie can be formed by placing the inner layer on the last, followed by the intermediate layer and then the outer layer. In these embodiments, the inner layer is placed on a last with an adhesive layer on the outermost surface of the inner layer. The intermediate layer is placed on the last contacting the adhesive layer on the inner layer. An additional layer of adhesive is placed on the outermost surface of the intermediate layer, and the outer layer is placed on the last contacting the adhesive layer on the intermediate layer. Heat and / or pressure can be applied in a single step, or can be applied when the inner layer and the intermediate layer are placed next to each other, followed by a second application of heat and / or pressure after the outer layer was placed on the last.

[0069] FIGS. 1 to 3 show the bootie at various stage of construction, and each of the inner layer, the intermediate layer, and the outer layer are inside out. FIG. 1 shows approximate locations of the foot portion 101 and the ankle portion 102. Inverted outer layer 130 is shown with inverted intermediate layer 120 coated by a layer of adhesive 125. The intermediate layer 120 is produced from two pieces that are joined together by seam 126. FIG. 2 shows bootie 10 (turned inside out), where an inner side (i.e., next to -13- DMS_US.369715812.1the foot of the user) of inner layer 110 is visible. Inner layer 110 is a single piece knit textile, and a toe portion has been closed using stitch 140. The inner side of outer layer 130 is also visible. The intermediate layer (not visible) is positioned between inner layer 110 and outer layer 130. FIG. 3 shows finished bootie 10, turned right side out, with the outer side of outer layer 130 visible, and outer layer 130 is made from at least three pieces 131, 132, 133 that are stitched together and with seam tape 135 placed over the stitching to provide waterproofness to the bootie 10. A reinforcing band 155 is at the terminal end of the ankle portion of the bootie and can help to provide a durable seal between the bootie and the wader (not shown).

[0070] If desired, a breathable foam insulation can be incorporated in a similar manner between the intermediate layer and the outer layer or between the intermediate layer and the inner layer to provide comfort and / or insulation from cold. An adhesive layer typically adheres the insulation layer to the intermediate and outer layer.

[0071] In some embodiments, the foot portion optionally comprises a foot bed that is contoured to provide arch support and / or comfort for the foot of the user. The footbed may be similar to an insole that is known in the art and can be removably inserted into the bootie, or the footbed may be adhered in the foot sole area to one or more of the inner layer, the intermediate layer or the outer layer.

[0072] WADER

[0073] The present disclosure also relates to a wader, specifically a stockingfoot wader, and the wader comprises the bootie. Waders are classified in a number of ways, for example, as stockingfoot waders or as bootfoot waders. They can also be classified with regards to the height of the waders. For example, a hip wader can extend from the foot to the upper thigh or hip region; a waist high wader can extend from the foot to a location proximate to the waist of a user; and a chest wader can extend from the foot to a location proximate to the chest of a user. Hip waders typically come in two pieces, one for the left leg and one for the right leg. Each of the waist high and chest waders comprise one or more leg portions and a body portion. These different types of waders can allow the user to stand in progressively deeper water and remain dry. The body portion, present in waist high waders and chest waders comprises the portion of the wader that extends from the upper portion of the legs, up the torso to the waist or to the chest of the user. In some embodiments, the body portion can extend from the upper portion of the leg to the waist of the user and be secured to the user with a belt, suspenders, and / or an elastic waist region. In other embodiments, the body portion can -14- DMS_US.369715812.1extend from an upper portion of the legs, to the chest of the user and be secured, for example, via suspenders. The leg and body portions of the wader can comprise any waterproof and / or waterproof and breathable materials or laminates that are typically used as wader materials.

[0074] The leg and body portion of the wader can be constructed from any material that is typically used for manufacturing a wader. Waders are often constructed of multilayer laminates to provide waterproofness, and one or more of breathability, durability, puncture-resistance, stretch, comfort and / or warmth. In some embodiments, the body portion comprises a multilayer breathable wader laminate that comprises a first wader textile layer, a wader barrier layer, a wader face textile layer, and optionally, a wader insulative layer. The first wader textile layer is intended to be the innermost layer of the wader, for example, next to the skin or clothing of the user. The wader barrier layer comprises a waterproof or a waterproof, breathable layer. The wader face textile layer comprises a durable abrasion-resistant layer and is intended to be the outermost layer of the wader. In some embodiments, the body portion comprises a multilayer wader laminate that comprises a first wader textile layer, a waterproof rubber or polymer layer, a durable wader face textile layer, and optionally, a wader insulative layer.

[0075] The first wader textile layer can be chosen from any of the textiles that are described for use as the inner layer of the bootie. The wader barrier layer can be any of the materials that are described for use as the intermediate layer of the bootie and, in some embodiments, is a waterproof breathable wader barrier layer. The wader face textile layer can be any durable abrasion-resistant textile and comprises natural fibers, from synthetic fibers, or from a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the face textile layer is a knit textile, a woven textile, a nonwoven textile, or a laminate thereof. In some embodiments, the wader face textile layer is a nylon textile. In other embodiments, the wader face textile layer is a polyester textile.

[0076] WADER FORMATION

[0077] The present disclosure also relates to a wader comprising the disclosed bootie, for example, a stockingfoot wader, and the bootie is joined in a waterproof manner to the wader. The wader can be a hip wader, a waist wader, or a chest wader. A hip wader typically comprises two separate portion, each portion covering one of a user’s legs. A waist high wader typically extends from the user’s feet to a region around the waist and can be secured via a belt, an elastic region, suspenders, or a combination thereof. A chest wader typically extends from the user’s feet to the chest region and can be -15- DMS_US.369715812.1secured by suspenders or straps that go over the user’s shoulders. Hip waders, waist high waders and chest waders each comprise a left leg portion and a right leg portion. The waist and chest waders add a trunk portion that extends from the leg portions and terminate near the waist of the user or the chest of the user, respectively. Each of the left leg and right leg portions have a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion of the left and right legs of the wader attach to the bootie at a wader bonding area 150 of FIG. 3. The wader bonding area comprises an overlapping portion of the distal portion of the left and right leg portions with the ankle portion of the booties. The overlapping portions of the bootie and the leg portion are adhered using a layer of an adhesive to create a watertight connection between each bootie and the respective leg portions.

[0078] Any of the known methods for completing the stockingfoot wader can be used. For example, an adhesive composition can be applied to the wader bonding area 150. The distal leg portions of the wader can then be adhered to each bootie via the applied adhesive composition. Heat and / or pressure can be used to ensure a waterproof seal between the bootie and the leg of the wader at the wader bonding area 150. If desired, a layer of waterproof seam tape can be used at the junction of the leg portion and the bootie to create a durable seam that is impermeable to liquid water. In some embodiments, the adhesive composition can be applied to the bootie, to the leg of the wader or to both the bootie and the leg of the wader. The wader bonding area 150 can be located on the outermost surface of the bootie (as shown in FIG. 3), or the wader bonding area can be located on an innermost surface of the bootie (not shown).Typically, the wader bonding area 150 is on the outside of the bootie.

[0079] In other embodiments, the wader bonding area 150 may further comprise a layer of a reinforcing band 155. The reinforcing band 155 can comprises a textile having a relatively open structure so that the adhesive composition bonding the bootie to the leg of the wader can flow through the reinforcing band 155 to provide a durable and waterproof seal between the bootie and the leg portion. The textile can comprise synthetic fibers, natural fibers, ora combination thereof. The reinforcing band 155 can be a knit, a woven, or a nonwoven textile.

[0080] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the embodiments cover modifications and-16- DMS_US.369715812.1variations provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.DMS_US.369715812.1

Claims

1. CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A bootie comprising:i) a foot portion; andii) an ankle portion extending from the foot portion towards a calf portion;wherein at least the foot portion comprises a multilayer laminate having an inner layer, an intermediate layer; and an outer layer;wherein the inner layer is a textile layer, the intermediate layer is a waterproof breathable layer, and the outer layer is a protective layer; andwherein the inner layer and the intermediate layer are joined to each other using an adhesive layer; and the outer layer forms the outermost layer of the bootie.

2. The bootie of claim 1, wherein the foot portion comprises the waterproof breathable layer and the ankle portion does not include an intermediate layer.

3. The bootie of claim 1 or 2, wherein the protective layer comprises polychloroprene, waterproof breathable foam, waterproof foam, a structured textile, a waterproof material incorporating at least one waterproof breathable vent, or a laminate or a combination thereof.

4. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bootie further comprises an insulation layer that is located between the intermediate layer and the outer layer.

5. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the inner layer, the intermediate layer, or the outer layer is elastic.

6. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the foot portion is contoured to provide arch support to a foot of a user.

7. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the outer layer is seamless.-18- DMS_US.369715812.

18. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the outer layer comprises two or more panels that are joined together using a stitch, an adhesive, a weld or a combination thereof.

9. The bootie of claim 8, wherein the two or more panels are joined together at a seam, and wherein the seam includes a waterproof tape placed over the joint.

10. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the protective layer is a laminate comprising two or more layers of polychloroprene, waterproof breathable foam, waterproof foam, or structured textiles.

11. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the bootie further comprises a liner layer that is positioned between the outer layer and the intermediate layer.

12. The bootie of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the waterproof breathable layer is a membrane comprising a polyester, a polyurethane, a polyether, a polyamide, a polyurea, a polyolefin, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a fluoropolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene, a copolymer thereof, a composite thereof, ora blend thereof.

13. The bootie of claim 11, wherein the liner layer is a knit textile, a woven textile, a nonwoven textile, or a laminate thereof.

14. The bootie of one of claims 11 or 13, wherein the liner layer comprises natural fibers, synthetic fibers or a combination thereof.

15. A wader comprising the bootie of any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A wader of claim 15, wherein the wader is a hip wader, a waist wader or a chest wader.

17. The wader of claim 15, wherein the wader comprises a left leg portion, and a right leg portion.-19- DMS_US.369715812.

118. The wader of claim 17, wherein the left and right leg portions each have a proximal leg portion and a distal leg portion, wherein each distal leg portion comprises a wader bonding area.

19. The wader of claim 18, wherein the wader bonding area comprises an overlapping portion of the distal portion of the left and / or right leg portion with the ankle portion of the bootie, and wherein the overlapping portion is adhered using a layer of an adhesive.

20. The wader of claim 19, wherein the overlapping portion further comprises a reinforcing band, the reinforcing band comprising a reinforcing textile layer and an adhesive layer.

21. The wader of claim 20, wherein the reinforcing textile layer comprises synthetic fibers, natural fibers or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers.

22. The wader of claim 21, wherein the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise a waterproof breathable laminate, or wherein the left leg portion and the right leg portion comprise a waterproof material.

23. The wader of claim 17, further comprising a trunk portion.-20- DMS_US.369715812.1

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