A fightwear garment

Abstract

Fightwear garment The present invention relates to a fightwear garment comprising a knitted fabric, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface, wherein the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane. The invention further relates to a knitted fabric for use in the fightwear garments of the present invention, as well as related methods of forming said fightwear garment.

Description

[0001] A FIGHTWEAR GARMENT

[0002] FIELD

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a fightwear garment, such as a fightwear base layer garment, comprising a fabric that provides the user wearing the garment enhanced performance, for example, improved liquid moisture management properties, while maintaining industry required durability and strength. In particularly, the present invention relates to a fightwear base layer garment, such as a rash guard, leggings, and / or shorts.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005]

[0002] Combat sports and marital arts involve physical training and sparing, and as such, require strong and durable garments that are resistant to tearing. This is due to the unique forces applied by an opponent to the garment during training or competitions. Different combat sports require garments with different properties. For example, cotton is used on traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and other martial arts clothing - to provide both strength and resistance to tearing due to the nature of the grappling in the sports. These traditional garments include a trouser and wrap over shirt which have reinforced collars / lapels that are intentionally used for gripping by an opponent as part of the sport, such that the opponent can execute throws, sweeps and pins. Their garments also comprise reinforced seams to protect against splitting and tearing.

[0006]

[0003] In contrast, modern combat sports, such as wrestling and / or mixed martial arts (MMA), require fightwear garments. Fightwear garments do not contain collars / lapels because the garments should not be directly gripped as part of the rules of the sport. Accordingly, fightwear garments avoid collars, seams where possible, to avoid providing a material that can be gripped by the opponent. The garments nevertheless are still required to be strong, durable and resistant to tearing to avoid unintentional damage of the garments during training and sparing.

[0007]

[0004] Fightwear garments in the art are formed of synthetic materials, including polyester or nylon, typically polyester based materials which simply knit structures that are designed for have a high strength and durability. Accordingly, the fightwear garments of the art are often strong but have low wicking, sweat control and other liquid moisture management properties. It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the above reference problems.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009]

[0005] According to the present invention there is provided a fightwear garment comprising a knitted fabric, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface, wherein the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane.

[0010]

[0006] There is also provided a method of preparing a fightwear garment of the invention comprising the steps of:a. Knitting at least one polyester yarn and at least one elastane yarn to form a knitted fabric with a first surface and a second surface,

[0011] b. optionally dying the knitted fabric

[0012] c. cutting the optionally dyed knitted fabric to form a discrete textile panel d. joining the edges of a discrete textile panel to form a fightwear garment wherein the skin facing inner surface of the fightwear garment comprises the first surface of the knitted fabric, and non-skin facing outer surface of the fightwear garment comprises the second surface of the knitted fabric.

[0013]

[0007] There is also provided a knitted fabric suitable for use in a fightwear garment of the invention, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface, wherein the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane.

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015]

[0008] According to the present invention there is provided a fightwear garment comprising the knitted fabric.

[0016]

[0009] According to the present invention there is provided a knitted fabric suitable for use in a fightwear garment.

[0017]

[0010] The fightwear garment comprises a knitted fabric, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane. In other words, the knitted fabric comprises polyester yarn and elastane yarn.

[0018]

[0011] The exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface.

[0019]

[0012] The exposed knit of the surface of the knitted fabric refers to the morphology of the knit structure of the knitted fabric.

[0020]

[0013] The pattern of stitches which results in the knitted fabric has two distinct sides, these are referred to in the art as a “right side” and a “wrong side”. In other words, the exposed knit of the surface of the knitted fabric refers to the sides (surface structures) of the knit structure of the knitted fabric.

[0021]

[0014] A knitted fabric with an exposed knit of the first surface being different to the exposed knit of the second surface refers to a knitted fabric which is not reversible. The difference in sides, and therefore the difference in textures and appearance dependents on the stitch pattern used to form the knitted fabric.

[0022]

[0015] The knitted fabric may be formed from a weft knitting structure or a warp knitting structure, preferably a weft knitting structure.

[0016] The weft knitting structure may be a jersey knit, a double jersey knit, a pique knit, a French terry knit, spacer knit, a mesh knit, a waffle knit, a pointelle knit or a circular knit, preferably the weft knitting structure may be a jersey knit, a double jersey knit, spacer knit, a mesh knit, a pointelle knit or a circular knit, more preferably a circular knit.

[0023]

[0017] The knitted fabric may have a circular knit.

[0024]

[0018] The knitted fabric may have a first surface stitch pattern, and a second surface stitch pattern, wherein the first and second surface stitch patterns are different.

[0025]

[0019] The knitted fabric may comprise at least one knitted fabric layer. The knitted fabric comprising a first surface and a second surface may comprise the first surface formed from a first knitted layer, and the second surface formed from a second knitted layer.

[0026]

[0020] The knitted fabric may comprise at least one knitted fabric layer that is a circular knit. In other words, at least one knitted fabric layer of the knitted fabric may be a prepared from a circular knit pattern.

[0027]

[0021] The knitted fabric may comprise a three straight strip knitting pattern. The knitted fabric may comprise a knitting pattern containing three distinct, continuous strips running parallel to each other.

[0028]

[0022] The knitted fabric comprising a first and second surface, may comprise the first surface that is smoother than the second surface; and / or a second surface that is more textured than the first surface.

[0029]

[0023] The knitted fabric comprises synthetic fibres. The knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane. In other words, the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane fibres.

[0030]

[0024] The fibre composition of the knitted fabric may be measured according to ISO 1833-12:220.

[0031]

[0025] The knitted fabric may comprise at least 70 wt% polyester based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at least 80 wt% polyester, more preferably at least 85 wt% polyester.

[0032]

[0026] The knitted fabric may comprise at least 1 wt% elastane based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at least 5 wt% elastane, more preferably at least 10 wt% elastane.

[0033]

[0027] The knitted fabric may comprise between 70-99 wt% polyester base on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at between 80-95 wt%, more preferably between 85-90 wt%.

[0034]

[0028] The knitted fabric may comprise between 1-30 wt% elastane based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably between 5-20 wt%, more preferably between 10-15 wt%.

[0035]

[0029] The knitted fabric may be formed of at least one type of polyester yarn.

[0036]

[0030] The knitted fabric may be formed of a polyester yarn comprising at least 30 filaments, preferably at least 60 filaments, more preferably at least 70 filaments.

[0031] The knitted fabric may be formed of at least two types of polyester yarns. The knitted fabric may be formed of two types of polyester yarns, a first polyester yarn and a second polyester yarn, wherein the first and second polyester yarns have a different linear mass density (yarn denier).

[0037]

[0032] The knitted fabric may comprise a first polyester yarn with a linear mass density of at least 50 denier, preferably at least 60 denier, more preferably at least 70 denier.

[0038]

[0033] The knitted fabric may comprise a first polyester yarn with a linear mass density of up to 200 denier, preferably up to 150 denier, more preferably up to 100 denier.

[0039]

[0034] The knitted fabric may comprise a second polyester yarn with a linear mass density of at least 25 denier, preferably at least 35 denier, more preferably at least 45 denier.

[0040]

[0035] The knitted fabric may comprise a second polyester yarn with a linear mass density of up to 100 denier, preferably up to 80 denier, more preferably up to 60 denier.

[0041]

[0036] The knitted fabric may be formed of two polyester yarns, each yarn comprising at least 30 filaments, preferably at least 60 filaments, more preferably at least 70 filaments.

[0042]

[0037] The knitted fabric may be formed of two types of polyester yarns and a single type of elastane yarn.

[0043]

[0038] The knitted fabric may comprise an elastane yarn with a linear mass density of at least 10 denier, preferably at least 20 denier, more preferably at least 25 denier.

[0044]

[0039] The knitted fabric may comprise an elastane yarn with a linear mass density of up to 75 denier, preferably up to 50 denier, more preferably up to 35 denier.

[0045]

[0040] The knitted fabric may have a fabric weight from 100 to 250 g / m2, preferably from 150 to 200 g / m2, more preferably 150 to 180 g / m2.

[0046]

[0041] A lower fabric weight (a light knitted fabric) allows for increased airflow, thereby increasing breathability, but this can result in a lower durability, whereas a higher fabric weight (a heavier knitted fabric) has high resistance to wear and tear but can restrict movement. The knitted fabric of the present invention as described herein advantageously has a balance of airflow, flexibility and durability such that it is suitable for use in a fightwear garment.

[0047]

[0042] Advantageously, polyester / elastane blends described herein have improved durability and strength, which prevent tearing of fightwear garments during use.

[0048]

[0043] The knitted fabric may have a linear density of at least 6 Tex, preferably at least 7 Tex, more preferably at least 8 Tex. The knitted fabric may have a linear density of less than 10 Tex, preferably less than 9 Tex. The knitted fabric may have a linear density of between 6 and 10 Tex, preferably at between 8 and 9 Tex. The linear density may be measured according to ISO 7211-5:2020.

[0044] The knitted fabric may have a polyester component with a linear density of at least 6 Tex, preferably at least 7 Tex, more preferably at least 8 Tex. The knitted fabric may have a polyester component with a linear density of less than 10 Tex, preferably less than 9 Tex. The knitted fabric may have a polyester component with a linear density of between 6 and 10 Tex, preferably at between 8 and 9 Tex. The linear density may be measured according to ISO 7211-5:2020.

[0049]

[0045] Advantageously, a knitted fabric according to the present invention with a linear density as described herein has improved strength and durability.

[0050]

[0046] The knitted fabric may have a vertical density (threads per unit length) of at least 15 wales / cm, preferably at least 17 wales / cm, more preferably at least 19 wales / cm, more preferably at least 21 wales / cm. The vertical density may be measured according to BS 5441 :1988+A1 :2019, clause 9 using BS EN 14971 :2006.

[0051]

[0047] A higher vertical density results in a stronger fabric and a lower vertical density results in a higher elastic recovery. Advantageously, the knitted fabrics of the present invention with a vertical density as described herein have a combination of strength, and elastic recovery such that it is suitable for fightwear garments. The inventors of the present invention have surprisingly found that a knitted fabric with a vertical density as described herein has improved properties for fightwear garments.

[0052]

[0048] The knitted fabric may have a horizontal density (threads per unit length) of at least 20 courses / cm, at least 25 courses / cm, at least 30 courses / cm. The knitted fabric may have horizontal density (threads per unit length) of up to 40 courses / cm, preferably up to 35 courses / cm, more preferably up to 30 courses / cm. The horizontal density may be measured according to BS 5441 :1988+A1 :2019, clause 9 using BS EN 14971 :2006.

[0053]

[0049] A higher horizontal density results in a stronger fabric with improved dimensional stability, and a lower vertical density results in a higher stretch and flexibility. Advantageously, the knitted fabrics of the present invention with a horizontal density as described herein have a combination of improved dimensional stability, high stretch and flexibility, and further surprisingly has improved properties for fightwear garments.

[0054]

[0050] The knitted fabric may have a pH value of between 3 and 9, preferably between 4 and 8, more preferably between 5 and 7. The pH value may be measured according ISO 3071 :2020. The inventors of the present invention have surprisingly found that a knitted fabric with a pH value as described herein has improved durability and longevity as fightwear garments.

[0055]

[0051] Advantageously, the fightwear garments of the present invention have improved wicking and moisture management properties, while retaining excellent durability, strength, and flexibility that is required forthe field of fightwear. In otherwords, the knitted fabrics of the present invention have improved wicking and moisture management properties, while retaining excellent durability, strength, and flexibility that is required forthe field of fightwear

[0052] The knitted fabric may have a vertical wicking of an average wicking distance (mm) of at least 100 Length and at least 100 Width, preferably at least 120 Length and at least 120 Width, more preferably at least 140 Length and 140 Width. The knitted fabric may have a vertical wicking of a wicking rate (mm / s) of at least 0.05, preferably at least 0.1 , more preferably at least 0.15. The vertical wicking may be measured according to AATTCC TM197:-2011e2(2018)e, Option B).

[0056]

[0053] The knitted fabric may have a propensity to surface piling, fuzzing or matting of at least 3, 3, and 3 respectively, preferably 4, 4 and 4 respectively (visual assessment according to ISO 12945-4). The propensity to surface piling, fuzzing or matting was conducted according to ISO 12945-1 :2020.

[0057]

[0054] The knitted fabric may have a dimensional stability of at least -10%, preferable at least -5%, more preferably at least -2%. The knitted fabric may have a dimensional stability of less than 10%, preferable less than 5%, more preferably less than 2%. Dimensional stability may be measured according to ISO 3759-2011 / BS, ISO 5077-2008 / BS, and ISO 6330-2021.

[0058]

[0055] The knitted fabric may have a spirality after washing of less than 5%, preferably less than 2%, more preferably less than 1%. Spirality after washing may be measured according to ISO 16322-2:2021 and ISO 6330:2021.

[0059]

[0056] The knitted fabric may have a water vapour permeability index of at least 100%, preferably at least 105%. Water vapour permeability index may be measured according to BS 7209:1990.

[0060]

[0057] The knitted fabric may have a water vapour permeability index after cleans of at least 100%, preferably at least 105%. Water vapour permeability index may be measured according to BS 7209:1990, after a cleanse procedure (3N @ 30°C - followed by line drying).

[0061]

[0058] The knitted fabric may have a liquid moisture management properties of at least OMMC Grade 3. Liquid moisture management properties may be measured according to AATCC 195:2012.

[0062]

[0059] The fightwear garments of the present invention comprise a knitted fabric with low spirality after washing which reduces the twisting or distortion of the fabric after washing. The inventors have surprisingly found that a low spirality after washing prevents the twisting of seams after washing. For fighting garments that implicitly have minimal seams to grip during training and / or sparring and this results in an improved fightwear garment because it retains these properties over its lifetime despite repetitive washing.

[0063]

[0060] The fightwear garment of the present invention may be undyed or dyed. In otherwords, the knitted fabric of the present invention may be an undyed or dyed knitted fabric, preferably a dyed knitted fabric.

[0064]

[0061] The knitted fabric may be dyed by any suitable process known in the art. The knitted fabric may be dyed by a sublimation print process, screen printing process, a rotary print process, and / or a transfer printing process, preferably by sublimation print process.

[0062] A sublimation printing process is a digital printing process that comprises the use of heat, pressure, and time to transfer dye onto different materials. The first step of sublimation printing process is to print a design onto special transfer paper using sublimation inks. Subsequently, the printed paper is place onto the knitted fabric to be dyed, and heated with a heat press. The inks are sublimated by the heat and transferred to form a dyed knitted fabric.

[0065]

[0063] A screen printing process comprises the steps of forcing ink through a mesh screen onto a surface. Making certain areas of the screen impervious to printing ink creates a stencil, which blocks the printing ink from passing through the screen. The ink that passes through forms the printed image on the dyed knitted fabric.

[0066]

[0064] A rotary screen printing process is a traditional textile printing method that is widely used in printed textiles. The screen-printing process comprises a rotating cylindrical screen that is used to apply ink or dye onto a knitted fabric.

[0067]

[0065] A transfer printing process comprises first printing a design on to a flexible nontextile substrate (paper), and subsequently, transferring the printed design onto a knitted fabric via a separate process.

[0068]

[0066] The knitted fabric may be a dyed knitted fabric formed by sublimation printing an undyed knitted fabric. The knitted fabric may be a dyed knitted fabric formed by wet dying an undyed knitted fabric. The knitted fabric may be a dyed knitted fabric formed by one or more dying processes. Advantageously, dyed knitted fabrics of the present invention that are formed by wet dyed and subsequently sublimination printing, when used in a fighting garment appear dyed to an observer, even under excessive stretching and strain, such as during use training and / or sparring, thereby providing a more luxurious appearing garment.

[0069]

[0067] The dyed knitted fabric may be resistant to colour fastness to rubbing. The dyed knitted fabric may have a resistance to colour fastness to rubbing of at least 3, preferably at least 4, as measured according to ISO 105 X12:2016.

[0070]

[0068] The dyed knitted fabric may be resistant to colour fastness to rubbing. The dyed knitted fabric may have a colour fastness to water of at least 3, preferably at least 4, as measured according to ISO 105 E10:2013.

[0071]

[0069] The dyed knitted fabric may be resistant to colour fastness to washing. The dyed knitted fabric may be resistant to colour fastness to washing of at least 3, preferably at least 4, as measured according to ISO 105 C06 A2S: 2010.

[0072]

[0070] The dyed knitted fabric may be resistant to colour fastness to perspiration. The dyed knitted fabric may have a colour fastness to perspiration of at least 3, preferably 4, as measured according to ISO 105 E04:2013, under acidic and / or alkaline conditions.

[0071] The dyed knitted fabric advantageously has a high colour stability, even under friction, and exposure to washing, water and perspiration. Advantageously, the fightwear garments described herein comprising dyed knitted fabrics may have high colour stability, even under friction, preventing dye transferring onto other clothing, skin, opponents or mats, during sparring or training, and any dye fading over the numerous washing cycles.

[0073]

[0072] The dyed knitted fabrics of the present invention may be resistant to degradation from washing.

[0074]

[0073] The fightwear garments according to the present invention are generally worn by directly against the user’s skin and provide a physically barrier between their skin and mats / opponents thereby helping to reduce the risk of contracting skin infections and also protect against rashes, scrapes and mat burns which are often a result of skin-to-skin contact, and skin to mat contact, during use.

[0075]

[0074] The fightwear garments described herein are specialised base layer garments that are suitable for use in modern contact sports. In other words, the fightwear garment may be fightwear base layer garments. The fightwear garment may be a fightwear rash guard, fightwear leggings and / or fightwear shorts.

[0076]

[0075] The fightwear garment may comprise at least 50 wt% of the knitted fabric described herein, based on the total weight of fabric in the garment, preferably at least 75 wt%, more preferably at least 90 wt%, especially at least 95 wt%.

[0077]

[0076] The fightwear garment may be 100 wt% of the knitted fabric as described herein, based of the total weight of the fabric in the garment.

[0078]

[0077] The fightwear garment may be a rash guard that is formed of a knitted fabric, wherein at least 90 wt% of the knitted fabric is a knitted fabric of the present invention.

[0079]

[0078] The fightwear garment may be leggings that are formed of a knitted fabric, wherein at least 90 wt% of the knitted fabric is a knitted fabric of the present invention.

[0080]

[0079] The fightwear garment may be shorts that are formed of a knitted fabric, wherein at least 90 wt% of the knitted fabric is a knitted fabric of the present invention.

[0081]

[0080] The fightwear garment may comprise a front region, a rear region and at least one side region.

[0082]

[0081] The fightwear garment may be a rash guard that is shaped to cover the users torso.

[0083]

[0082] The fightwear garment may be shorts that are shaped to cover the users thighs and groin.

[0084]

[0083] The fightwear garment may be leggings that are shaped to cover the users legs and groin.

[0084] The fightwear garment of the present invention may be formed from a number of discrete seamless textile panels. The fightwear garment may be formed from at least 2 discrete textile panels of different materials, wherein at least 1 of the discrete textile panels is formed of the knitted fabric of the present invention.

[0085]

[0085] The discrete seamless textile panels may be coupled together at seams. The discrete seamless textile panels may be coupled together at seams by fusion, gluing, sewing, stapling, or heat-bonding. The discrete seamless textile panels may be coupled together at the edges of the panels.

[0086]

[0086] Preferably, the seams between discrete seamless textile panels are minimized to form a fightwear garment with no structured seams. More preferably, the seams between discrete seamless textile panels are stitched together without overlapping to result in a flat smooth seam.

[0087]

[0087] The fightwear garments of the present invention comprises at least 2 discrete textile panels that are stitched together by a flatlock seam to form said fightwear garment.

[0088]

[0088] The fightwear garment may comprise up to 4 fabric components that are coupled together to form the fightwear garment, preferably up to 3 fabric components, more preferable up to 2 fabric components.

[0089]

[0089] By reducing the number of discrete seamless textiles panels that form the fightwear garment, the number of seams is reduced, advantageously, reducing the gripping surfaces for opponents.

[0090]

[0090] The close fit of a fightwear garment described herein may help reduce the gripping of the garment and also minimize uncomfortable movement of some parts of a wearer’s body relative to other parts of the wearer’s body during combat, additionally, the fightwear garment is able to wick away perspiration while provide a compressive force to the wearer.

[0091]

[0091] The fightwear garments of the present invention may have different performance characteristics at different zones relative to the body of a wearer. The fightwear garment may have a performance zone formed from the knitted fabric of the present invention described herein in high sweat zones, such as the upper torso area on the chest and back, the arm pit area, groin area, and / or calf area.

[0092]

[0092] The fightwear garments of the invention may be prepared from a method comprising the steps of:

[0093] a. Knitting at least one polyester yarn and at least one elastane yarn to form a knitted fabric

[0094] b. optionally dying the knitted fabric

[0095] c. cutting the optionally dyed knitted fabric to form a discrete textile panel

[0096] d. joining the edges of a discrete textile panel to form a fightwear garmentwherein the skin facing inner surface of the fightwear garment comprises the first surface of the knitted fabric, and non-skin facing outer surface of the fightwear garment comprises the second surface of the knitted fabric.

[0097]

[0093] The knitted fabrics of the invention may provide a high level of comfort for uses in fightwear garments that have a close proximity to the human body; and must be resistant to tearing.

[0098]

[0094] The term “fightwear” as used herein, is understood by the skilled person to refer to the specialised field of sportswear or other performance-enhancing apparel for use in modern combat sports, particularly mixed martial arts.

[0099]

[0095] The term “combat sports” as used herein is understood by the skilled person to refer to a competitive physical activity where two participants engage in one-on-one combat, employing techniques such as striking, grappling, or a combination thereof, with the objective of outscoring, incapacitating, or submitting their opponent within a defined set of rules.

[0100]

[0096] The term “mixed martial arts” as used herein is understood by the skilled person to refer to a full-contact sport that incorporates techniques from multiple martial arts, and is a modern combat sport. Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a professional and regulated sport that is governed by organisations such as UFC, ONE Championship, Bellator and PFL.

[0101]

[0097] The term “elastane” as used herein is understood by the skilled person to refer to a polyether-polyurea copolymer. Elastane is also known to the skilled person as Lycra and Spandex.

[0102]

[0098] The term “wales” as used herein is understood by the skilled person to refer the vertical columns of loops in a knitted fabric. It is understood that each wale is produced by the same needle in successive knitting cycles, forming a series of interlinked loops that run lengthwise through the knitted fabric. Wales are perpendicular to the courses.

[0103]

[0099] The term “courses” as used herein is understood by the skilled person to refer to the horizontal rows of loops, with each course formed by all adjacent needles during the same knitting cycle. Courses run width wise across the fabric, perpendicular to the wales.

[0104]

[0100] The terms “length” and “width” as used herein, and unless stated otherwise, is understood by the skilled person to refer to the orientation of a knitted fabric in relation to its wales (columns) and courses (rows), respectively. Similarly, the skilled person understands that the terms “vertical” and “horizontal” may be used to describe the “length” and “width” of a fabric, depending on the fabric’s orientation in use or testing.

[0105]

[0101] The “first surface” and “second surface” as used herein, refers to opposite sides of a material (as opposed to different areas of the same side). For example, the “first surface” of a knitted material refers to the inner-surface of the material that, in use, is intended to contact to the wearer. Whereas the “second surface” of a knitted material refers to the outer-surface of the material that, in use, is intended to be exposed to other surfaces.

[0102] Features disclosed herein in relation to a knitted fabric equally apply to a fightwear garment comprising a knitted fabric, and vice versa.

[0106]

[0103] The invention will now be further described with reference to the following non-limiting examples.

[0107] EXAMPLES

[0108] Test and Methods

[0109]

[0104] Unless stated otherwise, the below tests and methods can be used to measure the related properties of the materials of the invention as described herein.

[0110] Fibre analysis

[0111]

[0105] Fibre analysis is a quantitative chemical analysis of fibre composition. The method uses dimethylformamide to determine the mass percentage of acrylic, modacrylic, chlorofibre or elastane, after removal of non-fibrous matter, in textiles made of mixtures of acrylic, certain modacrylics, certain chlorofibres, certain elastane fibres. The testing is performed according to international standard ISO 1833-12:2020.

[0112] Linear density

[0113]

[0106] Linear density test method was conducted according to international standard ISO 7211-5:2020. This test method refers to the mass per unit length of a fibre / filament of a material, and indicates the fineness or coarseness of the material which directly impacts the materials properties, including its strength, softness and durability.

[0114] Vertical Density

[0115]

[0107] Vertical density test method was conducted according to BS EN 5441 :1988+A1 :2019 Clause 9 using BS EN 14971 :2006.

[0116] Horizontal Density

[0117]

[0108] Horizontal density test method was conducted according to BS EN 5441 :1988+A1 :2019 Clause 9 using BS EN 14971 :2006.

[0118] Vertical wickinq of textiles

[0119]

[0109] Vertical wicking of textiles was conducted according to the American Association of Textile Chemists & Colorists (AATCC) standard 197 (AATTCC TM197-2011e2(2018)e, Option B). This test method is used to evaluate the ability of fabric specimens to transport liquid vertically

[0110] A fightwear garment with an average wicking distance of at least 10cm is good quality. Vertical wickinq of textiles after wash

[0120]

[0111] Vertical wicking of textiles after wash was conducted according to the American Association of Textile Chemists & Colorists (AATCC) standard 197 (AATTCC TM197-2011e2(2018)e, OptionB) after a washing condition according to international standard ISO 6330. This test method is used to evaluate the ability of fabric specimens to transport liquid vertically after washing, and therefore can be used to assess how moisture transport properties are affected by washing.

[0121]

[0112] A fightwear garment with an average wicking distance of at least 10cm is good quality. Fabric propensity to surface piling, fuzzing or matting

[0122]

[0113] Fabric propensity to surface piling, fuzzing or matting was conducted according to international standard ISO 12945-1 :2020. The visual assessment of pilling, fuzzing and matting was carried out respectively according to international standard ISO 12945-4. This test method is used to evaluate the surface durability of a fabric.

[0123]

[0114] A fightwear garment with a pilling, fuzzing and matting of at least 3 in each category is good quality.

[0124] Dimensional stability to washing

[0125]

[0115] Dimensional stability is a quantitative analysis of a fabrics ability to maintains its original dimensions (original size and shape) after undergoing processes like washing and drying. The testing is performed according to ISO 3759-2011 / BS, ISO 5077-2008 / BS, and ISO 6330-2021.

[0126]

[0116] ISO 3759 relates to specimen preparation and measurement, ISO 5077 relates to determination of dimensional changes after washing and drying, and ISO 6330 relates to the actual washing and drying procedures to be used during testing.

[0127]

[0117] A fightwear garment with a dimensional stability to washing of + / -5% in length and + / - 5% in width is good quality.

[0128] Spirality after wash

[0129]

[0118] Determination of spirality after washing is obtained according to international standard ISO 16322-2:2021. Wash procedure prior to determination of spirality is carried about according to international standard ISO 6330:2021.

[0130]

[0119] A fightwear garment with a spirality of less than 5% is good quality.

[0131] Colour fastness to washing

[0132]

[0120] Determination of colour fastness to washing was conducted according to international standard ISO 105 C06 A2S: 2010. A modified wash was conducted for 30 minutes with a mechanical wash at 30 °C in 0.4% ECE Reference Detergent and 0.1% sodium perborate solution with 10 steel balls.

[0133]

[0121] A fightwear garment which provides results of a colour fastness to washing of at least 4 is good quality.

[0134] Colour fastness to water

[0122] Determination of colour fastness to water was conducted according to international standard ISO 105 E10:2013 which evaluates a fabric’s colour fastness when exposed to localised water spots. The sample is tested in a vertical position.

[0135]

[0123] A fightwear garment which provides results of a colour fastness to water of at least 4 is good quality.

[0136] Colour fastness to rubbing

[0137]

[0124] Determination of colour fastness to rubbing was conducted according to international standard ISO 105 X12:2016.

[0138]

[0125] A fightwear garment with a colour fastness to rubbing of at least 4 when dry, and at least 3 when wet is good quality.

[0139] Colour fastness to perspiration

[0140]

[0126] Determination of colour fastness to perspiration was conducted according to international standard ISO 105 E04:2013 which evaluates how fabrics maintain their colour when exposed to acidic and alkaline perspiration.

[0141]

[0127] A fightwear garment with a colour change of at least 4 under acid and alkaline conditions I good quality. A fightwear garment with a colour standing of at least 4 under acid and alkaline conditions is good quality.

[0142] pH value

[0143]

[0128] Determination of pH was conducted according to international standard ISO 3071 :2020. The pH value of a textiles aqueous extract provides insight into material integrity because improper pH levels can lead to degradation of fibres overtime affecting the durability and lifespan of the textile product, in addition to processing quality and user safety.

[0144]

[0129] A fightwear garment with a pH between 4-8 is good quality.

[0145] Liquid Moisture Management Properties

[0146]

[0130] Determination of liquid moisture management properties was conducted according to AATCC 195:2012.

[0147] Elasticity of Fabrics

[0148]

[0131] Determination of elasticity of fabrics was conducted according to international standard ISO 20932-1 :2020+A12021 with Modified Conditioning Parameters: 20°C + / - 2°C & 65% rH + / - 4% rH.

[0149] Water Vapour Permeability

[0150]

[0132] Determination of water vapour permeability was conducted according to BS 7209:1990. Period of exposure is 16 hours. A water vapour permeability index of >60% is good quality.Water Vapour Permeability After Cleanse

[0151]

[0133] Determination of water vapour permeability was conducted according to BS 7209:1990, after a cleanse procedure (3N @ 30°C - followed by line drying). Period of exposure is 16 hours. A water vapour permeability index of >60% is good quality.

[0152] Examples

[0153] Example 1

[0154]

[0134] A knitted fabric was prepared from 88% polyester and 12% elastane fibres. The knitted fabric has a knit structure of 75D / 72F (polyester), 50D / 72F (polyester) and 30DOP (elastane). A circular knitting machine was used with a constant rotation of 5076. The fabric is a polyester / elastane three straight strip. The two surfaces of the knitted fabric are different.

[0155] Example 2

[0156]

[0135] The knitted fabric of Example 1 was cut into three seamless panels and stitched via a flatlock seam into a rashguard, wherein the first seamless panel forms the torso and the second and third seamless panels form the arms of the garment.

[0157] Example 3

[0158]

[0136] The knitted fabric of Example 1 was cut into three seamless panels and stitched via a flatlock seam into a pair of shorts, wherein the first seamless panel forms the crotch area and the second and third seamless panels form the legs of the garment.

[0159] Example 4

[0160]

[0137] The knitted fabric of Example 1 was cut into three seamless panels and stitched via a flatlock seam into a pair of leggings, wherein the first seamless panel forms the crotch area and the second and third seamless panels form the legs of the garment.

[0161] Comparative Example 1

[0162]

[0138] A comparative knitted fabric (polyknit) was prepared with a knit structure of 75D / 72F (polyester) and 30DOP (elastane). The two sides of the knitted fabric are the same.

[0163] Example 5

[0164]

[0139] Fibre analysis of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0165]

[0140] Result (based on moisture regain weight) - Polyester 88.6%, Elastane 11.4% Example 6

[0166]

[0141] Linear density of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0167]

[0142] Result (excluding elastane) - 8.8 TexExample 7

[0168]

[0143] Vertical density of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0169]

[0144] Result (±1%) - 21 Wales / cm.

[0170] Example 8

[0171]

[0145] Horizontal density of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0172]

[0146] Result (±1%) - 27 Courses / cm.

[0173] Example 9

[0174]

[0147] Vertical wicking after washing of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein. A Wascator washing machine was used with front-loading and horizontal rotating drum type, and test programme 3N, 30 °C with 2 kg 100% polyester total load, in 20 g non-phosphate reference detergent 3, followed by a flat dry.

[0175]

[0148] Result (after 15 minutes) - Average Wicking Distance (mm): 145 Length, 159 Width. Wicking rate (mm / s): 0.2 Length, 0.2 Width.

[0176] Example 10

[0177]

[0149] Fabric propensity to surface pilling, fuzzing and matting of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein. The tests were conducted using a rotating pilling box apparatus with revolutions at 7200.

[0178]

[0150] Result - Pilling 4-5, Fuzzing 4-5, Matting 5.

[0179] Example 11

[0180]

[0151] Dimensional stability of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0181]

[0152] A Wascator washing machine was used with front-loading and horizontal rotating drum type, and test programme 3N, 30 °C with 2 kg 100% polyester total load, in 20 g non-phosphate reference detergent 3, followed by a flat dry.

[0182]

[0153] Result - After one wash, change in length was -0.9%, change in width was -0.9%.

[0183] Example 12

[0184]

[0154] Spirality after wash of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0185]

[0155] A Wascator washing machine was used with front-loading and horizontal rotating drum type, and test programme 3N, 30 °C with 2 kg 100% polyester total load, in 20 g non-phosphate reference detergent 3, followed by a flat dry.

[0186]

[0156] Result - After one was, spirality was unmeasurable and the test returned ‘Nil’.

[0187] Example 13

[0157] Colour fastness to washing of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0188]

[0158] Result - Colour change 4-5. Colour staining (acetate) 4-5. Colour staining (cotton) 4-5. Colour staining (nylon) 4-5. Colour staining (polyester) 4-5. Colour staining (acrylic) 4-5. Colour staining (wool) 4-5.

[0189] Example 14

[0190]

[0159] Colour fastness to water of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0191]

[0160] Result - Colour change 4-5. Colour staining (acetate) 4-5. Colour staining (cotton) 4-5. Colour staining (nylon) 4-5. Colour staining (polyester) 4-5. Colour staining (acrylic) 4-5. Colour staining (wool) 4-5.

[0192] Example 15

[0193]

[0161] Colour fastness to rubbing of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0194]

[0162] Result - Dry 4-5. Wet 4-5.

[0195] Example 16

[0196]

[0163] Colour fastness to perspiration of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0197]

[0164] Result - Colour change 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (acetate) 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (cotton) 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (nylon) 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (polyester) 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (acrylic) 4-5 / 4-5 (acid / alkaline). Colour staining (wool) 4-574-5 (acid / alkaline).

[0198] Example 17

[0199]

[0165] The pH value of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0200]

[0166] Result (pH of extracting solution 6.0, temperature of extracting solution 24.3 °C) - 6.5 Example 18

[0201]

[0167] Vertical Wicking Rate of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described according to AATCC 197.

[0202]

[0168] Result - Warp / Length Result - 114 mm; Weft / Width Result - 130 mm.

[0203] Example 19

[0204]

[0169] Vertical Wicking Rate of the knitted fabric, after cleanse, of Example 1 was tested as described according to AATCC197.

[0205]

[0170] Result - Warp / Length Result - 100 mm; Weft / Width Result - 130 mmExample 20

[0206]

[0171] Liquid Moisture Management Properties of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0207]

[0172] Result - OMMC Grade: 3

[0208] Comparative Example 2

[0209]

[0173] Liquid Moisture Management Properties of the knitted fabric of Comparative Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0210]

[0174] Result - OMMC Grade: 2.5

[0211] Example 21

[0212]

[0175] Water Vapour Permeability of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0213]

[0176] Result - Water Vapour Permeability Index 105.6%

[0214] Example 22

[0215]

[0177] Water Vapour Permeability - After Cleanse of the knitted fabric of Example 1 was tested as described herein.

[0216]

[0178] Result - Water Vapour Permeability Index 108.8%Table 1 : Detailed Result of Example 20 - Liquid Moisture Management Properties for knitted fabric of Example 1

[0217]

[0218] Table 2: Detailed Result of Comparative Example 2 - Liquid Moisture Management Properties for knitted fabric of Comparative Example 1

[0219]

[0220]

[0179] All the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0221]

[0180] Each feature disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0222]

[0181] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fightwear garment comprising a knitted fabric, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface,wherein the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane.

2. The fightwear garment of claim 1 , wherein the knitted fabric has a weft knitting structure or a warp knitting structure, preferably a weft knitting structure.

3. The fightwear garment of claim 2, wherein the weft knitting structure is a jersey knit, a double jersey knit, a pique knit, a French terry knit, spacer knit, a mesh knit, a waffle knit, a pointelle knit or a circular knit, preferably the weft knitting structure is a jersey knit, a double jersey knit, spacer knit, a mesh knit, a pointelle knit or a circular knit, more preferably a circular knit.

4. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises at least one knitted fabric layer.

5. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the first surface is formed from a first knitted layer, and wherein the second surface is formed from a second knitted layer.

6. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein at least one knitted fabric layer is a circular knit.

7. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the first surface of the knitted fabric is smoother than the second surface of the knitted fabric and / or wherein the second surface knitted fabric is more textured than the first surface of the knitted fabric.

8. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises at least 70 wt% polyester based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at least 80 wt% polyester, more preferably at least 85 wt% polyester.

9. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises at least 1 wt% elastane based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at least 5 wt% elastane, more preferably at least 10 wt% elastane.

10. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises between 70-99 wt% polyester base on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably at between 80-95 wt%, more preferably between 85-90 wt%.

11. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises between 1-30 wt% elastane based on the total weight of the knitted fabric, preferably between 5-20 wt%, more preferably between 10-15 wt%.

12. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises at least one type of polyester yarn; and / or at least one type of elastane yarn.

13. The fightwear garment of claim 12, wherein the knitted fabric is formed of two types of polyester yarns, a first polyester yarn and a second polyester yarn, wherein the first and second polyester yarns have a different linear mass density.

14. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a polyester yarn with a linear mass density of at least 50 denier, preferably at least 60 denier, more preferably at least 70 denier.

15. The fightwear garment of claim 14, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a second polyester yarn with a linear mass density of at least 25 denier, preferably at least 35 denier, more preferably at least 45 denier.

16. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric has a fabric weight from 100 to 250 g / m2, preferably from 150 to 200 g / m2, more preferably 150 to 180 g / m2.

17. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric, typically the polyester fibres, has a linear density of at least 6 Tex, preferably at least 7 Tex, more preferably at least 8 Tex.

18. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric has a vertical density of at least 15 wales / cm, preferably at least 17 wales / cm, more preferably at least 19 wales / cm, more preferably at least 21 wales / cm.

19. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric has a horizontal density of at least 20 courses / cm, at least 25 courses / cm, at least 30 courses / cm.

20. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric has liquid moisture management properties of at least OMCC Grade 3, as measured herein.

21. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the fightwear garment comprises at least 80 wt% of the knitted fabric, based on the total weight of the fightwear garment, preferably at least 90 wt%, more preferably at least 95 wt%.

22. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the fightwear garment is a rash guard, shorts or leggings.

23. The fightwear garment of any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric is a dyed knitted fabric.

24. A method of preparing a fightwear garment of any preceding claim comprising the steps of:e. Knitting at least one polyester yarn and at least one elastane yarn to form a knitted fabric with a first surface and a second surface,f. optionally dying the knitted fabricg. cutting the optionally dyed knitted fabric to form a discrete textile panel h. joining the edges of a discrete textile panel to form a fightwear garment wherein the skin facing inner surface of the fightwear garment comprises the first surface of the knitted fabric, and non-skin facing outer surface of the fightwear garment comprises the second surface of the knitted fabric.

25. A knitted fabric suitable for use in a fightwear garment of any proceeding claim, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a first, user-facing, surface and a second surface opposite the first surface,wherein the exposed knit of the first surface is different to the exposed knit of the second surface,wherein the knitted fabric comprises polyester and elastane.

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