Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a garment with a crotch and, more particularly,
to a sports garment with a crotch
Background Art
[0002] Some conventional sports garment with a crotch has a support portion with a strong
tightening force at a predetermined portion of the garment in order to support the
motion of the leg muscles. For example, Japanese Patent publication Laid-Open No.10-110306
discloses a garment with a crotch which supports the motion of the muscles by clamping
the thigh, knee, and calf with support portions from the left and right. When wearing
this garment with a crotch, the support portions suppress the motion of the leg in
the left-to-right direction, so the motion of the leg in the back-and-forth direction
becomes stable. This garment also has the effect of supporting the bending and stretching
motion of the hip joint and knee joint.
[0003] However, in addition to bending and stretching motions, the motions of the lower
half of the body include inner and outer pivoting motions, inner and outer rotating
motions and the like, and in the case of the garment with a crotch disclosed in the
Patent Reference 1, it is difficult to support these other motions, even if bending
and stretching motions can be supported.
Disclosure of the Invention
[0004] It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a garment with a
crotch which supports the motion of the leg with a good balance.
[0005] In order to achieve the object, the garment with a crotch of the present invention
is a garment with a crotch for covering at least part of the lower half of the body,
characterized in that a band-like tightening portion at least has, at a front side
portion corresponding to the front side of a thigh, a thigh front side tightening
portion formed obliquely from above to below the front side portion, and, at a rear
side portion corresponding to the rear side of the thigh, a thigh rear side tightening
portion formed obliquely from above to below the rear side portion.
[0006] According to the present invention, as the wearer's thigh is clamped by the thigh
front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion which have a
large tightening force, muscles in the front and rear sides of the thigh can be supported
with a good balance, so that the leg can pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly
and outwardly easily.
[0007] In the garment with a crotch according to the present invention, the thigh front
side tightening portion and the thigh rear side tightening portion preferably respectively
incline in the opposite direction with respect to a vertical direction when seen from
either a front side or rear side. Furthermore, the thigh front side tightening portion
and thigh rear side tightening portion in the garment with a crotch of the present
invention preferably respectively incline in the same direction with respect to a
vertical direction when seen from either the front side or rear side; in this case,
it is desirable that the thigh front side tightening portion and the thigh rear side
tightening portion be continuous on at least either the inside of the thigh or the
outside of the thigh, and it is even more desirable that these tightening portions
be continuous on both the inside of the thigh and the outside of the thigh. Here,
the "inside" refers to either the upper portion or lower portion of the inside of
the thigh, the "outside" refers to either the upper portion or lower portion of the
outside of the thigh, and the "continuous on both sides" refers to a continuation
on the upper portion of the inside of the thigh and lower portion of the outside of
the thigh, or on the lower portion of the inside of the thigh and the upper portion
of the outside of the thigh (same below). Furthermore, part of the tightening portion
is preferably formed at a portion corresponding to a greater trochanter.
[0008] In the garment with a crotch of the present invention, it is desirable that the tightening
portion further has a thigh lower part tightening portion which is formed obliquely
from an intermediate point on at least either the thigh front side tightening portion
or thigh rear side tightening portion to the lower inside of the thigh or lower outside
of the thigh. As a result, tension can be applied to at least either the thigh front
side tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening portion, so that the supporting
effect provided by the thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening
portion can be improved. In this case, furthermore, it is desirable that one part
of the thigh lower part tightening portion is formed in a portion corresponding to
the inside of the knee or the outside of the knee, or that the thigh lower part tightening
portion connect the thigh front side tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening
portion with another tightening portion that is formed in a portion corresponding
to the inside of the knee or the outside of the knee. As a result, the kncc supporting
effect can be improved. Furthermore, it is desirable that the thigh lower part tightening
portion in this case be formed from the vicinity of the center in the longitudinal
direction of at least either the thigh front side tightening portion or thigh rear
side tightening portion at the thigh. As a result, mutual tension can be applied more
easily to the respective tightening portions.
[0009] In the garment with a crotch of the present invention, it is desirable that the tightening
portion further has a thigh upper part tightening portion which is formed obliquely
from an intermediate point on at least either the thigh front side tightening portion
or thigh rear side tightening portion to the upper inside of the thigh or the upper
outside of the thigh. As a result, tension can be applied to at least either the thigh
front side tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening portion, so that the supporting
effect provided by the thigh front side tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening
portion can be improved. Furthermore, it is desirable that the thigh upper part tightening
portion in this case be formed from the vicinity of the center in the longitudinal
direction of at least either the thigh front side tightening portion or thigh rear
side tightening portion at the thigh. As a result, mutual tension can be applied more
easily to the respective tightening portions.
[0010] According to the present invention, the garment with a crotch for covering at least
part of a lower half of a body is characterized in that a band-like tightening portion
at least has, at a front side portion corresponding to a front side of a crus, a crus
front side tightening portion formed obliquely from above to below the front side
portion and, at a rear side portion corresponding to a rear side of the curs, a crus
rear side tightening portion formed obliquely from above to below the rear side portion.
[0011] According to the present invention, as the wearer's crus is clamped by the crus front
side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening portion which have a large tightening
force, muscles in the front and rear sides of the crus can be supported with a good
balance, so that the leg can pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly and
outwardly easily.
[0012] In the garment with a crotch according the present invention, the crus front side
tightening portion and the crus rear side tightening portion preferably respectively
incline in the opposite direction with respect to a vertical direction when seen from
either the front side or rear side. Furthermore, the crus front side tightening portion
and crus rear side tightening portion in the garment with a crotch of the present
invention perferably respectively incline in the same direction with respect to the
vertical direction when seen from either the front side or the rear side; in this
case, it is desirable that the crus front side tightening portion and crus rear side
tightening portion are continuous on at least either the inside of the crus or the
outside of the crus. Furthermore, it is even more desirable that these tightening
portions are continuous on both the inside of the crus and the outside of the crus.
As a result, mutual tension can be applied more easily to the respective tightening
portions.
[0013] In the garment with a crotch according to the present invention, part of the tightening
portion is preferably formed at a portion corresponding to at least either an inside
of a knee or an outside of the knee. Then, at least either the inside of the knee
or the outside of the knee is supported by part of the tightening portion, so the
motion of the knee in the left-to-right direction is suppressed, and the motion of
the leg in the back-and-forth direction is stabilized. As a result, the knee joint
can bend and stretch easily. Here, the ranges indicated by the "upper side of the
knee", "lower side of the knee", "inside of the knee" and "outside of the knee" refer
to positions within the knee joint, or positions located within a few centimeters
of the outer circumference of the kneecap, and refer to positions that are close enough
for direct stabilization of the knee joint by the tightening portion (same below).
Accordingly, it is sufficient if at least one part of the tightening portion is formed
so as to correspond to such a position.
[0014] In the garment with a crotch according to the present invention, the tightening portion
preferably further has a below-knee tightening portion which is formed from a portion
corresponding to the inside of the knee and a portion corresponding to the outside
of the knee to a portion corresponding to the area below the knee, and the upper edge
of the below-knee tightening portion preferably formed in shape that is in dented
toward the lower part of the crus. Then, the inside, outside, and the lower side of
the wearer's knee are firmly supported by the below-knee tightening portion having
a large tightening force. Hence, the knee can be stabilized, and any unwanted motion
of the knee can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the tightening portion does not
contact the area above the knee or the area below the knee, the freedom of movement
of the knee can be ensured.
[0015] It is desirable that the tightening portion in the garment with a crotch of the present
invention further has an above-knee tightening portion which is formed from a portion
corresponding to the inside of the knee and a portion corresponding to the outside
of the knee to a portion corresponding to the upper side of the knee, and that the
lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion is formed in a shape that is indented
toward the upper part of the thigh. As a result, the stability of the knee is improved.
[0016] It is desirable that the tightening portion in the garment with a crotch of the present
invention further has pelvic region tightening portions which are formed in portions
corresponding to the left and right side portions of the pelvic region, and an abdomen
tightening portion which is formed in a portion corresponding to the abdomen, and
that the abdomen tightening portion connect the pelvic region tightening portions
that are located on the left and right sides. As a result, the pelvic region tightening
portions that contact the left and right side portions of the pelvic region can be
pulled toward the center of the body so that the hip joints and pelvis can be stabilized.
[0017] It is desirable that the thigh front side tightening portion in the garment with
a crotch of the present invention is formed from the lower part of inside of the thigh
to the greater trochanter via the upper part of the front surface of the thigh, and
is formed so that this portion is curved in an indented shape toward the upper part
of the thigh. As a result, muscular contractions of the front surface of the thigh
can be supported.
[0018] In the garment with a crotch of the present invention, it is desirable that the garment
has a hem part formed in a portion corresponding to the area above the knee, and that
at least either the lower end of the thigh front side tightening portion or the lower
end of the thigh rear side tightening portion is located at the hem part. Furthermore,
it is desirable that the upper part of the thigh front side tightening portion and
the upper part of the thigh rear side tightening portion are connected in a portion
corresponding to the side part of the pelvic region, and that the lower part of the
thigh front side tightening portion and the lower part of the thigh rear side tightening
portion are connected in a portion corresponding to the lower part of the inside of
the thigh. As a result of the formation of such connections, tension is mutually applied
to the thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion,
so that the supporting effect of the thigh muscles is increased, and the hip joints
can be supported.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0019] Fig. 1 is a front view showing muscles and bones when the legs of the human body
are seen from the front side.
[0020] Fig. 2 is a front view showing muscles and bones when the legs of the human body
are seen from the rear side.
[0021] Fig. 3 is a front view of sports spats.
[0022] Fig. 4 is a rear view of the sports spats.
[0023] Fig. 5 is a front view of sports spats.
[0024] Fig. 6 is a rear view of the sports spats.
[0025] Fig. 7 is a rear view of the sports spats.
[0026] Fig. 8 is a front view of sports spats.
[0027] Fig. 9A is a front view of sports spats, and Fig. 9B is a rear view of the sports
spats.
[0028] Fig. 10A is a front view of sports spats, and Fig. 10B is a rear view of the sports
spats.
[0029] Fig. 11A is a front view of sports spats, and Fig. 11B is a rear view of the sports
spats.
[0030] Fig. 12A is a front view of sports spats, and Fig. 12B is a rear view of the sports
spats.
[0031] Fig. 13 is a diagram of sports spats as seen from the front surface.
[0032] Fig. 14 is a diagram of sports spats as seen from the front surface.
[0033] Fig. 15 is a diagram of sports spats as seen from the front surface.
[0034] Fig. 16 is a diagram of sports spats as seen from the front surface.
[0035] Fig. 17A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface,
and Fig. 17B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
back surface.
[0036] Fig. 18A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface,
and Fig. 18B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
back surface.
[0037] Fig. 19A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface,
and Fig. 19B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
back surface.
[0038] Fig. 20A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface,
and Fig. 20B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
back surface.
[0039] Fig. 21 A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface,
and Fig. 21B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
back surface.
Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention
[0040] The embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a repetitive description
thereof will be omitted.
[0041] Prior to a description of the embodiment, the skeletal and muscular system used when
describing the function of the present invention will be described with reference
to Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 1 is a view showing the muscles and bones when the legs of
the human body are seen from the front side, and Fig. 2 is a view showing the muscles
and bones when the legs of the human body are seen from the rear side. As shown in
Fig. 1, a long adductor 102, pectineus 103, and sartorius 104 are arranged in the
front side of the thigh, and a long peroneal 108, tribialis anterior 109, long extensor
110 of toes, gastrocnemius 111, and soleus 112 are arranged in the front side of the
crus. As shown in Fig. 2, a great adductor 101, semimembranous 105, biceps 106 of
the thigh, and semitendinous 107 are arranged in the rear side of the thigh, and the
gastrocnemius 111 and soleus 112 are arranged in the rear side of the crus. Figs.
1 and 2 show a greater trochanter 113. Note that Figs. 1 and 2 show typical muscles
and bones, and the muscles and bones to be supported in the present invention are
not limited to them.
[0042] Sports spats 1 (sports garment with a crotch) of this embodiment will be described
with reference to Figs. 3 and 4. Fig. 3 is a front view of sports spats 1, and Fig.
4 is a rear view of the sports spats 1.
[0043] As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the sports spats 1 cover a range of the hips to the crus,
and have band-like tightening portions 2. The main body and a tightening portion 2
of the sports spats 1 are formed of a stretchable material. As the stretchable material,
for example, power net, satin net, triconet, two-way tricot, and two-way russel can
be raised. In regard to the materials used in the main body and tightening portion
2, the following concrete examples may be cited: for example, two-way tricot (56-dtex
polyester yam with a mixing ratio of 82%, and 55-dtex polyurethane yam with a mixing
ratio of 18%) is used in the main body cloth, and power net (55-dtex nylon yarn with
a mixing ratio of 82%, and 310-dtex polyurethane yarn with a mixing ratio of 18%)
is used in the tightening portions. In this manner, the tightening portion 2 is formed
of a stretchable material in the same manner as the main body portion of the sports
spats 1, but the tightening force of the fabric is stronger in the tightening portion
2. This is the characteristic feature of the present invention. Furthermore, it is
desirable that the material of the main body cloth have an elongation in two directions.
[0044] The width of the tightening portion differs depending on the portion where it is
to be formed and on the size of the garment, and accordingly it is difficult to numerically
define it simply, but generally a tightening portion is preferably formed with a width
of 2 cm on average or more, and more preferably 3 cm on average or more. A tightening
portion corresponding to a portion to be supported with a particular focus is preferably
formed with a width of 5 cm or more This will be described in detail. For example,
the width of a tightening portion in contact with a calf is preferably about 2 cm
to 6 cm, and that of a tightening portion in contact with the inner knee or outer
knee is preferably 3 cm or more (more preferably about 5 cm to 10 cm). The width of
a tightening portion in contact with a thigh is preferably about 3 cm to 8 cm, and
that of a tightening portion in contact with a greater trochanter and hips is preferably
4 cm or more (in some cases, about 8 cm to 15 cm). Furthermore, a wide portion with
a width of approximately 20 cm may also be partially formed. Moreover, these numerical
values are examples using the M size of a Japanese male as a reference (same below).
The aforementioned material regarding the width of the tightening portion also applies
to the other embodiments described below.
[0045] The tightening portion 2 may be formed of one continuous cloth, or a plurality of
cloths. To form the tightening portion 2, it is preferable to overlay a cloth with
a strong tightening force on the outer side of a main body cloth that can stretch
in two directions. Alternatively, a cloth with a strong tightening force may be overlaid
on the inner side of the main body cloth. The method for forming the tightening portions
2 is similar to what is described below with regard to the other embodiments.
[0046] For example, if such a tightening portion is formed so as to connect the greater
trochanter and the inside surface of the knee, the upper part of the inside of the
thigh and the outside surface of the knee or the side surface of the knee and the
side surface of the ankle on the opposite side by a shorter distance, tension can
be more easily applied to the muscles that contact this tightening portion 2. Furthermore,
for example, if the tightening portion has a shape that is linear or close to linear,
connection by a shorter distance is possible. However, it is not always necessary
that this portion be formed with a linear shape; for example, this portion may also
be formed as a curved line in which the straight line that is the shortest line is
caused to protrude upward, with both points used as supporting points, or may be formed
as a curved line that protrudes downward. Also, the connecting of the tightening portion
2 with the shortest distance possible described above applies to the other embodiments
described below as well.
[0047] As shown in Fig. 3, the tightening portion 2 has a thigh front side tightening portion
2b at its portion 1a corresponding to the front side of the thigh, and crus front
side tightening portions 2e and 2f at its portion 1b corresponding to the front side
of the crus. As shown in Fig. 4, the tightening portion 2 has thigh rear side tightening
portions 2c and 2d at its portion 1c corresponding to the rear side of the thigh.
The features of the respective tightening portions will be described.
[0048] The thigh front side tightening portion 2b shown in Fig. 3 is, at the portion 1a
corresponding to the front side of the thigh, formed obliquely from above the outer
side to below the inner side of the portion 1a. This will be described in more detail.
The upper portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b is located at that
position of the spats 1 which corresponds to the greater trochanter 113, and the lower
portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b is located at that position
of the spats 1 which corresponds to the inner side of the knee joint. The thigh front
side tightening portion 2b is formed in a substantially linear shape across a portion
corresponding to the upper greater trochanter and a portion corresponding to the inside
of the lower knee joint, and contacts the front surface of the thigh. As a result
of such contact, the muscles of the front surface of the thigh are bunched between
the upper part and the lower part. Furthermore, as long as the thigh front side tightening
portion 2b is caused to contact the portion extending from the lower inside to the
upper outside of the thigh, preferably the portion extending from the inner knee to
the greater trochanter, on the front surface of the thigh, the shape may be a linear
shape or a shape that is slightly curve upward or downward. That portion of the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b which is above the greater trochanter 113 is formed
to extend upward from the greater trochanter 113 along the side portion of the hip
[0049] The crus front side tightening portion 2e shown in Fig. 3 is, at the portion 1b corresponding
to the front side of the crus, formed obliquely from above the inner side to below
the outer side of the portion 1b. To describe this in concrete terms, the upper part
of the crus front side tightening portion 2e is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the inside of the knee joint, and the lower part of the crus front side tightening
portion 2e is positioned in a hem portion corresponding to the outside of the ankle.
The crus front side tightening portion 2e is formed to be able to support the long
peroneal 108 between its upper and lower portions. With this crus front side tightening
portion 2e, the motion of the long peroneal 108 is supported. The upper portion of
the crus front side tightening portion 2e need not be located at the portion corresponding
to the inner side of the knee joint, but suffices as far as it reaches a more inner
side (crotch side) and upper side than a portion near the center of the front side
surface of the crus. Furthermore, the lower part of the band-form portion formed between
the upper part and lower part of the crus front side tightening portion 2e need not
always be formed only on the front side of the crus; as long as the major portion
of the tightening portion is on the front side of the crus, a portion of this band-form
portion may be continuously formed as far as the portion 1d corresponding to the rear
side of the crus (see Fig. 4).
[0050] The crus front side tightening portion 2f shown in Fig. 3 is, at the portion 1b corresponding
to the front side of the crus, formed obliquely from above the outer side to below
the inner side of the portion 1b. To describe this in concrete terms, the upper part
of the crus front side tightening portion 2f is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee joint, and the lower part of the crus front side tightening
portion 2f is positioned in a hem portion corresponding to the inside of the ankle.
The crus front side tightening portion 2f is formed to be able to support the tribialis
anterior 109, an extensor hallucis longus (not shown), long extensor 110 of toes,
and long peroneal 108 between its upper and lower portions. With the crus front side
tightening portion 2f, the motion of the tribialis anterior 109, extensor hallucis
longus, long extensor 110 of toes, and long peroneal 108 is supported. The lower portion
of a band-like portion formed between the upper and lower portions of the crus front
side tightening portion 2f need not be formed only on the front side of the crus,
but may be partly formed at the portion 1d corresponding to the rear side of the crus
(see Fig. 4).
[0051] As shown in Fig. 3, the crus front side tightening portion 2e and crus front side
tightening portion 2f intersect below the knee, and their upper edges form a V shape.
Furthermore, as is shown in Fig. 3, in the portion corresponding to the periphery
of the knee, a thigh front side tightening portion 2b and crus front side tightening
portion 2e are formed in the inside portion of the knee, and a crus front side tightening
portion 2f and thigh rear side tightening portion 2d (see Fig. 4) are formed in the
outside portion of the knee. However, no tightening portion is formed in the upper
portion of the knee. Thus, as a result of the knee being supported from three directions,
i. e., from the left and right side surfaces and from below, the knee ligaments are
effectively supported, so that the bending and stretching motion of the knee joint
is facilitated. Also, when no tightening portion is formed at the portion above the
knee, the knee can follow the motion reliably.
[0052] The width of each tightening portion formed at the portion corresponding to the periphery
of the knee is preferably 3 cm to 10 cm. The tightening portions may be formed with
a constant width within this range, or different widths. Furthermore, in cases where
[the respective tightening portions] are formed with different widths, it is desirable
that the width of the portions contacting the inner knee in which the ligaments are
weak be made wider than the width of other portions, especially the width of the outside
knee and area below the knee. Also, the widths of the tightening portions at the areas
corresponding to the knees as described above apply to the other embodiments described
below as well.
[0053] Furthermore, in addition to the tightening portions shown in the Fig. 3, the two
tightening portions described next may also be formed. The first tightening portion
is a tightening portion which is formed from the inner knee portion of the crus front
side tightening portion 2e shown in Fig. 3 via the inside surface of the calf to the
upper part of the calf inside surface contact location of the crus front side tightening
portion 2f. The second tightening portion is a tightening portion which is formed
from the outer knee portion of the crus front side tightening portion 2f shown in
Fig. 3 via the outside surface of the calf to the upper part of the calf outside surface
contact location of the crus front side tightening portion 2e. Both of these two tightening
portions may be formed, or only one or the other of these two tightening portions
may be formed. As a result of the formation of such tightening portions, it becomes
easier to apply tension to the inside, outside and lower side of the knee, so that
the effect supporting the knee is heightened. Furthermore, as a result of these tightening
portions contacting the calf, the calf can be supported. Moreover, tension can be
applied most easily in a case where these two tightening portions are formed in a
rectilinear shape, so that such a shape is ideal; however, these tightening portions
may also show some curvature. Furthermore, since it is sufficient if tension can be
applied between these two tightening portions and other tightening portions connected
to these respective tightening portions, these two tightening portions may be formed
with a narrower width than the other tightening portions.
[0054] The thigh rear side tightening portion 2c shown in Fig. 4 is, at the portion 1c corresponding
to the rear side of the thigh, formed obliquely from above the outer side to below
the inner side of the portion 1c. This will be described in more detail. The upper
portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c is located at a portion corresponding
to the greater trochanter 113, and the lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2c is located at a portion corresponding to the inner side of the knee joint.
The thigh rear side tightening portion 2c is formed to be able to support the semimembranous
105 between its upper and lower portions. Furthermore, the upper part of the thigh
rear side tightening portion 2c need not always be positioned in a portion corresponding
to the greater trochanter 113; it is sufficient if this tightening portion at least
extends beyond the vicinity of the center of the upper part of the thigh on the rear
side surface. Furthermore, the portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c
that is located above the greater trochanter 113 contacts the side part of the pelvic
region from the greater trochanter 113, and is formed toward the upper part of the
rear center; moreover, this portion contacts the upper part of the swell of the hip
(upper part of the pelvic region), and the end portions of the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2c on the left and right are formed so that these end portions are connected
in the vicinity of the rear center of the waistline (upper part of the pelvic region).
Furthermore, the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c may also connect with the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b shown in Fig. 3 at the side part of the pelvic region.
As a result of such a connection of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c and
thigh front side tightening portion 2b at the side part of the pelvic region, tension
is mutually applied, so that the supporting effect of the thigh muscles is increased;
furthermore, the hip joint can be supported. Moreover, as a result of the thigh rear
side tightening portion 2c or thigh front side tightening portion 2b contacting the
side part of the pelvic region including the greater trochanter 113, the hip joint
can be supported. Furthermore, as a result of the left and right thigh rear side tightening
portions 2c being connected at the rear center of the pelvic region, or the left and
right thigh front side tightening portions 2b being connected at the front center
of the abdomen, the effect of supporting the hip joints is further increased. In cases
where the left and right thigh rear side tightening portions 2c are connected at the
rear center of the pelvic region, it is desirable that the connection location be
disposed on the upper part of the pelvic region.
[0055] The thigh rear side tightening portion 2d shown in Fig. 4 is, at the portion 1c corresponding
to the rear side of the thigh, formed obliquely from above the inner side to below
the outer side of the portion 1c. This will be described in more detail. The upper
portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d is located at a portion corresponding
to a portion near the hip bone connecting point (portion below the natal cleft), and
the lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d is located at a portion
corresponding to the outer side of the knee joint. The thigh rear side tightening
portion 2d is formed to be able to support the biceps 106 of thigh, semitendinous
107, and semimembranous 105 between its upper and lower portions. With the thigh rear
side tightening portion 2d, the motion of the biceps 106 of thigh, semitendinous 107,
and semimembranous 105 is supported. Furthermore, the upper ends of the thigh rear
side tightening portions 2d on the left and right thighs are connected in the vicinity
of the joining point of the hip bones. As a result, tension is mutually applied to
the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d on the left and right. Furthermore, the
upper parts of the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d may be positioned at the
inside upper parts (below the crotch) on the rear sides of the thighs. Moreover, the
upper parts of the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d may contact the natal cleft
and extend to the waistline, or may contact the natal cleft and connect with other
tightening portions at the rear center of the upper part of the pelvic region. As
a result, more tension is applied to the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d, so
that the effect of supporting the muscles is improved
[0056] Since the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c and thigh rear side tightening portion
2d are not formed above the natal cleft, as shown in Fig. 4, stretch of the hips is
secured. Accordingly, for example, even when the wearer bends his body forward, the
garment can follow this motion easily.
[0057] As is shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the thigh front side tightening portion 2b and thigh
rear side tightening portion 2c are connected in their respective upper parts at a
portion including the greater trochanter from the upper outside of the thigh, and
are connected in their respective lower parts at the inside of the knee from the lower
inside of the thigh. In this case, the tightening portions that contact the front
and back of the thigh are connected respectively at the side part of the hip joint
above the outside of the thigh and the inner knee below the inside of the thigh. Specifically,
the tightening portions that contact the front and back of the thigh are connected
on both the inside and outside of the thigh. As a result, a tightening force can be
applied to both the knee joint and the hip joint, so that both the knee joint and
hip joint can be stabilized and supported. On the inner side of the knee, the upper
portion of the crus front side tightening portion 2e is connected to the thigh front
side tightening portion 2b and thigh rear side tightening portion 2c described above.
The lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d and the upper portion
of the crus front side tightening portion 2e are connected to each other on the outer
side of the knee. Not both the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d and thigh rear
side tightening portion 2c need be formed, but only either tightening portion may
be formed. Either one of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d and thigh rear
side tightening portion 2c may only form a portion below the intersecting portion
of the two tightening portions. It would also be possible to have only the thigh front
side tightening portion 2b and the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c formed. In
this case, the inner knee and the side of the hip can be stabilized by connecting
the inner knee and the greater trochanter with the thigh front side tightening portion
2b and the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c. Or, only the thigh front side tightening
portion 2b and the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d can be formed. In this case,
the knee can be stabilized by further forming an below knee tightening portion, as
described later, thereby providing opposing tension at the front and rear of the thigh
with the below knee tightening portion and the portions abutting the outer knee and
the inner knee. Also, the thigh front side tightening portion 2b can be formed so
that it does not abut the area directly above the knee, thereby providing a greater
degree of freedom for the knee.
[0058] In this manner, when the thigh is supported from front and behind with the thigh
front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion, the hip joint
and knee joint can pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly and outwardly
easily. As the knee is supported from the left, right, and lower directions by part
of the tightening portion, the knee is stabilized, so the knee joint can bend and
stretch easily. Hence, sports spats suitable for supporting the operation of the muscles
during an exercise that uses legs can be provided.
[0059] Furthermore, the thigh front side tightening portions, thigh rear side tightening
portions and crus front side tightening portions are connected to each other (continuous
with each other) at either the waste, thighs, knees or crus, and the left and right
thigh rear side tightening portions are connected above and below the rear center
of the pelvic region. As a result, the respective tightening portions have a structure
that applies tension with the rear center of the pelvic region (location of contact
of the spine and pelvis) as a supporting point, so that tension is applied to the
lower half of the body with the core of the body as a center. Accordingly, the muscles
and joints of the pelvic region, thighs, knees and crus can be supported with good
balance.
[0060] Furthermore, in the sports spats 1 shown in Figs. 3 and 4, one tightening portion
2b is disposed on the front side of the thigh, and two tightening portions 2c and
2d are disposed on the rear side of the thigh. By thus disposing a larger number of
tightening portions on the rear side of the thigh than on the front side of the thigh,
it is possible to improve the supporting effect when the thigh is caused to operate
in the forward-rearward direction. This type of advantage is also provided in the
other embodiments described below.
[0061] Modifications of the tightening portion 2 of the sports spats according to this embodiment
will be described with reference to Figs. 5 to 8.
[0062] Fig. 5 is a front view of sports spats 1 and shows a thigh front side tightening
portion 2a formed at a portion 1a corresponding to the front side of the thigh. The
thigh front side tightening portion 2a shown in Fig. 5 is, at the portion 1a corresponding
to the front side of the thigh, formed obliquely from above the inner side to below
the outer side of the portion 1a. To describe this in concrete terms, the upper part
of the thigh front side tightening portion 2a is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the inside of the thigh below the crotch (upper inside of the thigh), and the lower
part of the thigh front side tightening portion 2a is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee joint. Here, the muscles of the thigh are bunched obliquely
from the upper part to the lower part, so that the contractile motion in the muscles
in this interval is supported. Accordingly, as a result of the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a being formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part of the thigh,
and [thus] being formed so that the pectineus 103, short adductor (not shown in the
figures), long adductor 102 and great adductor 101 can be supported, the motions of
the pectineus 103, short adductor, long adductor 102 and great adductor 101 are supported.
Furthermore, the lower part of the thigh front side tightening portion 2a need not
always be positioned in a portion corresponding to the outside of the knee joint;
it is sufficient if this tightening portion 2a reaches at least a point that is further
to the outside (flank side) than the vertical center line on the front side of the
thigh, i. e., reaches the lower part of the outside of thigh.
[0063] Fig. 6 is a rear view of sports spats 1 and shows a crus rear side tightening portion
2g formed at a portion 1d corresponding to the rear side of the crus. The crus rear
side tightening portion 2g shown in Fig. 6 is, at the portion 1d corresponding to
the rear side of the crus, formed obliquely from above the outer side to below the
inner side of the portion 1d. To describe this in concrete terms, the upper part of
the crus rear side tightening portion 2g is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee joint or the area below the outside of the knee joint,
and the lower part of the crus rear side tightening portion 2g is positioned in a
hem portion corresponding to the inside of the ankle. The crus rear side tightening
portion 2g is formed to be able to support the gastrocnemius 111, rear peroneal (not
shown), and soleus 112 between its upper and lower portions. With the crus rear side
tightening portion 2g, the motion of the gastrocnemius 111, rear peroneal, and soleus
112 is supported. Furthermore, the band-form portion formed between the upper part
and lower part of the crus rear side tightening portion 2g need not always be formed
on only the rear side of the crus; a portion of this band-form portion may also be
formed in a portion corresponding to the front side of the crus.
[0064] Fig. 7 is a rear view of sports spats 1 and shows a crus rear side tightening portion
2h formed at a portion 1d corresponding to the rear side of the crus. The crus rear
side tightening portion 2h shown in Fig. 7 is, at the portion 1d corresponding to
the rear side of the crus, formed obliquely from above the inner side to below the
outer side of the portion 1d. To describe this in concrete terms, the upper part of
the crus rear side tightening portion 2h is positioned in a portion corresponding
to the inside of the knee joint or the area below the inside of the knee joint, and
the lower part of the crus rear side tightening portion 2h is positioned in a hem
portion corresponding to the outside of the ankle. The crus rear side tightening portion
2h is formed to be able to support the gastrocnemius 111 and soleus 112 between its
upper and lower portions. With the crus rear side tightening portion 2h, the motion
of the gastrocnemius 111 and soleus 112 is supported. Furthermore, the band-form portion
formed between the upper part and lower part of the crus rear side tightening portion
2h need not always be formed on only the rear side of the crus; a portion of this
band-form portion may also be formed in a portion corresponding to the front side
of the crus.
[0065] Fig.8 is a front view of sports spats 1 and shows a below-knee tightening portion
2v formed at a portion 1b corresponding to the front side of the crus. The below-knee
tightening portion 2v (portion indicated by a solid line) shown in Fig. 8 is formed
to extend from a portion corresponding to the inner side of the knee joint and the
outer side of the knee joint to a portion on the lower side of the knee joint, and
the upper edge of the below-knee tightening portion 2v forms a V shape. Accordingly,
the wearer's knee is firmly supported from the inner, outer, and lower sides of the
knee, so any unwanted motion of the knee is suppressed, and the knee can stretch easily.
As the below-knee tightening portion 2v is formed, the bending motion of the knee
is suppressed, so the patellar ligament below the knee can be protected. The upper
edge of the below-knee tightening portion 2v need not form a V shape, but may form,
e.g., a U shape or crescent shape. In other words, the shape of the upper edge of
the below-knee tightening portion 2v suffices as far as it forms a recess toward the
lower portion of the crus. The below-knee tightening portion 2v may be formed by intersecting
two tightening portions below the knee. As shown in Fig. 8, the portion corresponding
to the upper side of the knee is formed of a soft tightening portion H having a softer
tightening force than that of the tightening portion 2, so that a decrease in the
performance of the knee to follow the motion can be suppressed. The main body portion
(excluding the tightening portion 2) and soft tightening portion H of the sports spats
suffice as far as they are formed of cloths having softer tightening forces than that
of the tightening portion 2, or the main body portion (excluding the tightening portion
2) and soft tightening portion H may be formed of one cloth integrally.
[0066] With the tightening portion 2 of this embodiment, even when the respective portions
described above are combined as will be described later, the same effect as that of
the tightening portion in which the respective portions are combined as shown in Figs.
3 and 4 can be obtained.
[0067] Regarding the combination of the portion corresponding to the thigh, the thigh front
side tightening portion 2a and thigh rear side tightening portion 2d may be combined.
This combination supports the inner rotating motion of the knee and the outer knee.
In particular, this combination has the effect of supporting the knee not to turn
to the outer side when the wearer lands on his feet. The thigh front side tightening
portion 2b and thigh rear side tightening portion 2c may be combined. This combination
supports the greater trochanter and the inner knee. When the greater trochanter is
supported, the hip joint is supported, so the hip joint can bend and stretch easily.
When the thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion
combined in this manner are seen from either the front or rear side of the spats 1,
the respective tightening portions incline in the same direction with respect to the
vertical direction. Furthermore, it is desirable that the vertical width of the connecting
portions of the tightening portions that are thus combined on the outside of the thigh
and inside of the thigh be 5 cm or greater. Even more preferably, the vertical width
of the connecting portions on the outside of the thigh is set at approximately 5 to
15 cm, and the vertical width of the connecting portions on the inside of the thigh
is set at approximately 5 to 10 cm. The description concerning these widths also applies
to other embodiments. When a tightening portion for supporting the middle gluteus
(muscle in the upper portion of the hips) is added to this combination of tightening
portion, the outer pivoting motion of the hip joint can be supported.
[0068] The thigh front side tightening portion 2a and thigh rear side tightening portion
2c may be combined. This combination supports the inner rotating motion of the knee
and the inner rotating motion of the hip joint. The thigh front side tightening portion
2b and thigh rear side tightening portion 2d may be combined. This combination supports
the outer rotating and outer pivoting motion of the knee. When the thigh front side
tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion combined in this manner
are seen from either the front or rear side of the spats 1, the respective tightening
portions incline in opposite directions with respect to the vertical direction.
[0069] In this manner, when the thigh is supported from front and behind with the thigh
front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion, the hip joint
and knee joint can pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly and outwardly
easily. As the knee is supported from the left and right by part of the thigh front
side tightening portion and part of the thigh rear side tightening portion, the knee
joint can bend and stretch easily.
[0070] Regarding the combination of the portion corresponding to the crus, the crus front
side tightening portion 2e and crus rear side tightening portion 2h may be combined.
This combination supports the inner rotating motion of the knee and the inner knee.
The crus front side tightening portion 2f and crus rear side tightening portion 2g
may be combined. This combination supports the outer rotating motion of the knee and
the outer knee. When the crus front side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening
portion combined in this manner are seen from either the front or rear side of the
spats 1, the respective tightening portions incline in the same direction with respect
to the vertical direction.
[0071] The crus front side tightening portion 2e and crus rear side tightening portion 2g
may be combined. This combination supports the outer pivoting motion of the knee and
the outer pivot of the crus. Hence, for example, an inside kick motion and the like
in soccer are supported. The crus front side tightening portion 2f and crus rear side
tightening portion 2h may be combined. This combination supports the outer pivoting
motion of the knee. When the crus front side tightening portion and crus rear side
tightening portion combined in this manner are seen from either the front or rear
side of the spats 1, the respective tightening portions incline in opposite directions
with respect to the vertical direction.
[0072] In this manner, when the crus is supported from front and behind with the crus front
side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening portion, the knee joint and
ankle can pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly and outwardly easily. As
the knee is supported from the left and right by part of the crus front side tightening
portion and part of the crus rear side tightening portion, the knee joint can bend
and stretch easily.
[0073] The respective combinations of the portion corresponding to the thigh described above
and the respective combinations of the portion corresponding to the crus described
above may be combined. Practical examples of such case will be described with reference
to Figs. 9A to 10B. Fig. 9A is a front view of sports spats and shows a state wherein
a thigh front side tightening portion 2a and crus front side tightening portion 2f
are combined on the front side of the leg. Fig. 9B is a rear view of the sports spats
and shows a state wherein a thigh rear side tightening portion 2d and crus rear side
tightening portion 2g are combined on the rear side of the leg. In the spats shown
in Figs. 9A and 9B, on the thigh, the thigh front side tightening portion 2a and thigh
rear side tightening portion 2d are formed to incline in the same direction, and on
the crus, the crus front side tightening portion 2f and crus rear side tightening
portion 2g are formed to incline in the same direction. When the respective tightening
portions are formed in this manner, the wearer's thigh and crus are firmly supported
from front and behind. Furthermore, the respective tightening portions are connected
in a portion corresponding to the outside of the knee. Accordingly, since the tightening
portion contacting the outside of the knee is pulled in four directions by the respective
tightening portions, the outside of the wearer's knee is firmly supported. In this
case, furthermore, another tightening portion which contacts the inside of the knee
so that the inside of the knee can be supported may also be formed. As a result, the
wearer's knee is firmly supported from the inside and the outside. Furthermore, by
connecting both the crus front side tightening portion 2f and crus rear side tightening
portion 2g at the lower part of the inside of the crus, it is possible to apply more
tension to the respective tightening portions. Also, it would be preferable for the
bottom end of the crus rear side tightening portion 2g and the crus front side tightening
portion 2f to extend to the edge of the spats.
[0074] Fig. 10A is a front view of sports spats and shows a state wherein a thigh front
side tightening portion 2b and crus front side tightening portion 2e are combined
on the front side of the leg. Fig. 10B is a rear view of the sports spats and shows
a state wherein a thigh rear side tightening portion 2c and crus rear side tightening
portion 2h are combined on the rear side of the leg. In the spats shown in Figs. 10A
and 10B, on the thigh, the thigh front side tightening portion 2b and thigh rear side
tightening portion 2c are formed to incline in the same direction, and on the crus,
the crus front side tightening portion 2e and crus rear side tightening portion 2h
are formed to incline in the same direction. Furthermore, the upper part of the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b and the upper part of the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2c contact the greater trochanter, and are connected to each other. When the
respective tightening portions are formed in this manner, the wearer's thigh and crus
are firmly supported from front and behind. As the tightening portion in contact with
the inner side of the knee is pulled by the respective tightening portions in four
directions, the inner side of the wearer's knee is supported firmly. In this case,
another tightening portion may also be formed so that the outer side of the knee can
be supported. Then, the wearer's knee is firmly supported from the inner and outer
sides. Also, by connecting the tightening portions at the below the outer lower thigh,
the crus front side tightening portion 2e and the crus rear side tightening portion
2h can apply more tension to the tightening portions. Also, it would be preferable
for the bottom end of the crus rear side tightening portion 2h and the crus front
side tightening portion 2e to extend to the edge of the spats.
[0075] The respective combinations of the portion corresponding to the thigh described above
and the below-knee tightening portion 2v described above may be combined. Practical
examples of such case will be described with reference to Figs. 11A to 12B. Fig. 11A
is a front view of sports spats and shows a state wherein a thigh front side tightening
portion 2a and below-knee tightening portion 2v are combined on the front side of
the leg. Fig. 11B is a rear view of the sports spats and shows a state wherein a thigh
rear side tightening portion 2d is formed on the rear side of the leg. In the spats
shown in Figs. 11A and 11B, on the thigh, the thigh front side tightening portion
2a and thigh rear side tightening portion 2d are formed to incline in the same direction.
The lower portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2a, the lower portion
of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d, and the upper portion on the outer knee
side of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are connected to each other at the outer
knee portion. When the respective tightening portions are formed in this manner, the
wearer's thigh is firmly supported from front and behind. As the below-knee tightening
portion 2v is in contact with the inner, outer, and lower sides of the knee and is
pulled obliquely upward by the tightening portions formed on the front and rear sides
of the thigh, the wearer's knee is firmly supported in three directions. In cases
where the tightening portion thus does not contact the area above the knee, the degree
of freedom of the knee is ensured, so that movement tracking is improved. On the other
hand, in cases where the tightening portion contacts the area above the knee, the
stability of the knee is improved, but movement tracking deteriorates. Alternatively,
a thigh rear side tightening portion 2c may be further formed on the spats shown in
Figs. 11A and 11B. In this case, the lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2c and the inner-knee-side upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion
2v are connected to each other at the inner knee portion. Then, that portion of the
below-knee tightening portion 2v which is in contact with the inner knee is pulled
upward toward the outer side of the thigh by the thigh rear side tightening portion
2c, and that portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v which is in contact with
the outer knee is pulled upward toward the inner side of the thigh by the thigh front
side tightening portion 2a and thigh rear side tightening portion 2d. Specifically,
the inner knee side contacting part and outer knee side contacting part of the below-knee
tightening portion 2v are pulled in respectively opposite directions on the front
and back of the thigh, so that the force supporting the knee is increased. Another
tightening portion may be further formed to connect to the inner-knee-side upper portion
of the below-knee tightening portion 2v, and the upper portion of the tightening portion
may be connected to the thigh front side tightening portion 2a or thigh rear side
tightening portion 2d. Furthermore, the thigh front side tightening portion 2b, thigh
rear side tightening portion 2c and below-knee tightening portion 2v may be combined.
In this case, the lower portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b, the
lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c, and the inner-knee-side
upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are connected to each other
at the inner knee portion. Furthermore, if a tightening portion that connects the
lower part of the below-knee tightening portion 2v and the hem of the sports spats
is further installed, more tension is applied to the tightening portions located below
the knee and on the inside and outside of the knee, so that the supporting effect
is improved. Moreover, the tightening portion that connects the lower part of the
below-knee tightening portion 2v and the hem of the sports spats may be a single tightening
portion; however, tension can be applied more easily by forming two tightening portions
so that the below-knee tightening portion 2v is pulled downward to the left and right.
It would also be possible to have only the thigh front side tightening portion 2a
and the thigh rear side tightening portion 2d formed without forming the below-knee
tightening portion 2v.
[0076] Fig. 12A is a front view of sports spats and shows a state wherein a thigh front
side tightening portion 2a and below-knee tightening portion 2v are combined on the
front side of the leg. Fig. 12B is a rear view of the sports spats and shows a state
wherein a thigh rear side tightening portion 2c is formed on the rear side of the
leg. In the spats shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, on the thigh, the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a and thigh rear side tightening portion 2c are formed to incline in opposite
directions. The lower portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2a and the
outer-knee-side upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are connected
to each other at the outer knee portion. The upper portion of the thigh rear side
tightening portion 2c is in contact with the greater trochanter. When the respective
tightening portions are formed in this manner, the wearer's thigh is firmly supported
from front and behind. As the below-knee tightening portion 2v is in contact with
the inner, outer, and lower sides of the knee and is pulled obliquely upward by the
tightening portions formed on the front and rear sides of the thigh, the wearer's
knee is firmly supported in three directions. In cases where the tightening portion
thus does not contact the area above the knee, the degree of freedom of the knee is
ensured, so that movement tracking is improved. On the other hand, in cases where
the tightening portion contacts the area above the knee, the stability of the knee
is improved, but movement tracking deteriorates. A thigh rear side tightening portion
2c may be further formed on the spats shown in Figs. 12A and 12B. In this case, the
lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c and the inner-knee-side
upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are connected to each other
at the inner knee portion. Another tightening portion may be further formed to connect
to the inner-knee-side upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v, and
the upper portion of the tightening portion may be connected to the thigh front side
tightening portion 2a or thigh rear side tightening portion 2c. Alternatively, The
thigh front side tightening portion 2b, thigh front side tightening portion 2d and
blow-knee tightening portion 2v may be combined together. In this case, the lower
portion of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b and the inner-knee-side upper
portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are connected to each other at the
inner knee portion, and the lower portion of the thigh rear side tightening portion
2d and the outer-knee-side upper portion of the below-knee tightening portion 2v are
connected to each other at the outer knee portion. Furthermore, if a tightening portion
that connects the lower part of the below-knee tightening portion 2v and the hem of
the sports spats is further installed, more tension is applied to the tightening portions
located below the knee and on the inside and outside of the knee, so that the supporting
effect is improved. Moreover, the tightening portion that connects the lower part
of the below-knee tightening portion 2v and the hem of the sports spats may be a single
tightening portion; however, tension can be applied more easily by forming two tightening
portions so that the below-knee tightening portion 2v is pulled downward to the left
and right. It would also be possible to have only the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a and thigh rear side tightening portion 2c formed without forming the below-knee
tightening portion 2v.
[0077] Next, an example of the deformation of the tightening portions on the front side
of the thigh will be described with reference to the front views of sports spats shown
in Figs. 13 through 16. Fig. 13 shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening
portion 2b and a thigh front side tightening portion 2au (thigh upper part tightening
portion) are combined on the front side of the thigh. As was described above, the
thigh front side tightening portion 2b is formed obliquely from the upper part to
the lower part of the front surface of the thigh. The thigh front side tightening
portion 2au is formed from the upper part of the inside of the thigh to a connecting
portion of the two tightening portions 2b and 2au which is located at an intermediate
point on the thigh front side tightening portion 2b. As a result of the installation
of such a thigh front side tightening portion 2au, tension can be applied to the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b that is formed obliquely from the upper part to the
lower part of the front side of the thigh, so that the supporting effect provided
by the thigh front side tightening portion 2b can be improved. Furthermore, the width
of the thigh front side tightening portion 2au can be made narrower than the width
of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b. In concrete terms, this may be a width
of approximately 2 to 4 cm.
[0078] Fig. 14 shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening portion 2b and a thigh
front side tightening portion 2aw (thigh lower part tightening portion) are combined
on the front side of the thigh. The thigh front side tightening portion 2aw is formed
from the lower part of the outside of the thigh to a connecting portion of the two
tightening portions 2b and 2aw which is located at an intermediate point on the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b. Furthermore, the lower part of the thigh front side
tightening portion 2aw is connected to the upper part of the crus front side tightening
portion 2f which is formed on the outside of the knee. As a result of the provision
of such a thigh front side tightening portion 2aw, tension can be applied to the thigh
front side tightening portion 2b which is formed obliquely from the upper part to
the lower part of the front side of the thigh, so that the supporting effect provided
by the thigh front side tightening portion 2b can be improved. Furthermore, since
tension can also be applied to the crus front side tightening portion 2f formed on
the outside of the knee, the effect that supports the knee can be improved. Moreover,
the width of the thigh front side supporting part 2aw can be made narrower than the
width of the thigh front side tightening portion 2b and crus front side tightening
portion 2f. In concrete terms, this width may be approximately 2 to 4 cm. Furthermore,
in cases where the thigh front side tightening portion 2b has a curved shape that
is curved in an indented shape toward the lower part of the thigh on the front side
of the thigh, and the thigh front side tightening portion 2aw is connected to the
thigh front side tightening portion 2b at a point immediately above the knee joint,
an above-knee tightening portion is formed by this thigh front side tightening portion
2b and thigh front side tightening portion 2aw. Specifically, this above-knee tightening
portion is formed from a portion corresponding to the inside of the knee joint and
a portion corresponding to the outside of the knee joint to a portion corresponding
to the upper side of the knee joint. The lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion
is formed in an inverted V shape. Furthermore, the shape of the lower edge of the
above-knee tightening portion need not always be an inverted V shape; for example,
this edge may also be formed in an inverted U shape or crescent shape. Specifically,
it is sufficient if the shape of the lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion
is formed in a shape that is indented toward the upper part of the thigh. As a result
of the formation of such an above-knee tightening portion, the stability of the knee
can be improved.
[0079] Fig. 15 shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening portion 2a and a thigh
front side tightening portion 2bu (thigh upper part tightening portion) are combined
on the front side of the thigh. As was described above, the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a is formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part of the front
surface of the thigh. The thigh front side tightening portion 2bu is formed from the
upper part of the outside of the thigh to a connecting portion of the two tightening
portions 2a and 2bu located at an intermediate point on the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a. As a result of the provision of such a thigh front side tightening portion
2bw, tension can be applied to the thigh front side tightening portion 2a that is
formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part of the front side of the thigh,
so that the supporting effect provided by the thigh front side tightening portion
2a can be improved. Furthermore, the width of the thigh front side tightening portion
2bu can be made narrower than the width of the thigh front side tightening portion
2a. In concrete terms, this width may be approximately 2 to 4 cm.
[0080] Fig. 16 shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening portion 2a and a thigh
front side tightening portion 2bw (thigh lower part tightening portion) are combined
on the front side of the thigh. The thigh front side tightening portion 2bw is formed
from the lower part of the thigh to a connecting portion of the two tightening portions
2a and 2bw which is located at an intermediate point on the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a Furthermore, the lower part of the thigh front side tightening portion
2bw is connected to the upper part of the crus front side tightening portion 2e formed
on the inside of the knee. As a result of the provision of such a thigh front side
tightening portion 2bw, tension can be applied to the thigh front side tightening
portion 2a which is formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part of the
front side of the thigh, so that the supporting effect provided by the thigh front
side tightening portion 2a can be improved. Furthermore, since tension can also be
applied to the crus front side tightening portion 2e formed on the outside of the
knee, the effect that supports the knee can be improved. Moreover, the width of the
thigh front side tightening portion 2bw can be made narrower than the width of the
thigh front side tightening portion 2a and crus front side tightening portion 2e.
In concrete terms, this width may be approximately 2 to 4 cm. Furthermore, in cases
where the thigh front side tightening portion 2a has a curved shape that is curved
in an indented shape toward the lower part of the thigh on the front side of the thigh,
and the thigh front side tightening portion 2bw is connected to the thigh front side
tightening portion 2a at a point immediately above the knee joint, an above-knee tightening
portion is formed by this thigh front side tightening portion 2a and thigh front side
tightening portion 2bw. Specifically, this above-knee tightening portion is formed
from a portion corresponding to the inside of the knee joint and a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee joint to a portion corresponding to the upper side of the
knee joint. The lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion is formed in an inverted
V shape. Furthermore, the shape of the lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion
need not always be an inverted V shape; for example, this edge may also be formed
in an inverted U shape or crescent shape. Specifically, it is sufficient if the shape
of the lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion is formed in a shape that is
indented toward the upper part of the thigh.
[0081] As is shown in Figs. 13 through 16, it is desirable that tightening portions 2au,
2aw, 2bu and 2bw which have an inclination that allows intersection with the thigh
front side tightening portion formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part
of the front surface of the thigh, and which are formed from the upper side part or
lower side part of the thigh to an intermediate point on the thigh front side tightening
portion, be disposed on the front side of the thigh. Furthermore, it is desirable
that these tightening portions 2au, 2aw, 2bu and 2bw be connected to the upper part
of the crus front side tightening portion formed on the outside or inside of the knee.
Moreover, it is desirable that the connecting portions with the other thigh front
side tightening portions 2au, 2aw, 2bu and 2bw formed at intermediate points of the
thigh front side tightening portions 2a and 2b be formed in the vicinity of the center
in the longitudinal direction of the thigh front side tightening portions 2a and 2b
on the thigh. As a result, mutual tension can be applied more easily to the respective
tightening portions.
[0082] Furthermore, the tightening portions 2au, 2aw, 2bu and 2bw shown in the Figs. 13
through 16 show as an example a case in which these tightening portions are disposed
on the front side of the thigh. However, it would also be possible to dispose similar
tightening portions on the rear side of the thigh. Specifically, tightening portions
which have an inclination that allows intersection with the thigh rear side tightening
portion formed obliquely from the upper part to the lower part of the rear surface
of the thigh, and which are formed from the upper side part or lower side part of
the thigh to an intermediate point on the thigh rear side tightening portion, may
be disposed on the rear side of the thigh. Furthermore, these tightening portions
may be connected to the upper part of the crus rear side tightening portion formed
on the outside or inside of the knee.
[0083] Furthermore, the above-knee tightening portion shown in Figs. 14 and 16 may also
be formed in combination with the crus front side tightening portion 2e and crus rear
side tightening portion 2g. In this case, the above-knee tightening portion connects
with the crus front side tightening portion 2e or crus rear side tightening portion
2g in a portion corresponding to the inside or outside of the knee. Furthermore, the
crus front side tightening portion 2e and crus rear side tightening portion 2g are
formed so that these tightening portions incline in respectively opposite directions
with respect to the vertical direction in the crus as seen from either the front side
or the rear side of the crus. Specifically, the crus front side tightening portion
2e is formed so that this tightening portion extends from the inner knee, contacts
the front side of the crus, and extends to the outer ankle on the lower part of the
crus. Meanwhile, the crus rear side tightening portion 2g is formed so that this tightening
portion extends from the outer knee, contacts the rear side of the crus, and extends
to the inner ankle on the lower part of the crus. Furthermore, the above-knee tightening
portion shown in Figs. 14 and 16 may also be formed by combining the crus front side
tightening portion 2f and crus rear side tightening portion 2h. In this case, the
above-knee tightening portion connects with the crus front side tightening portion
2f or crus rear side tightening portion 2h in a portion corresponding to the inside
or outside of the knee. Furthermore, the crus front side tightening portion 2f and
crus rear side tightening portion 2h are formed so that these tightening portions
respectively incline in opposite directions with respect to the vertical direction
in the crus as seen from either the front side or rear side of the crus. Specifically,
the crus front side tightening portion 2f is formed so that this tightening portion
extends from the outer knee, contacts the front side of the crus, and extends to the
inner ankle on the lower part of the crus On the other hand, the crus rear side tightening
portion 2h is formed so that this tightening portion extends from the inner knee,
contacts the rear side of the crus, and extends to the outer ankle on the lower part
of the crus. As a result of strong tightening portions thus being formed with mutually
opposite inclinations on the front and back of the crus, and thus being connected
with the above-knee tightening portion, tension is applied to respective tightening
portions contacting the area above the knee, the inside of the knee and the outside
of the knee, so that the knee can be supported. In this case, furthermore, if no tightening
portion is installed below the knee, the degree of freedom of the knee can be ensured.
On the other hand, in cases where a tightening portion is disposed below the knee,
the stability of the knee can be improved.
[0084] Furthermore, the above-knee tightening portion shown in Figs. 14 and 16 and the below-knee
tightening portion 2v shown in Fig. 8 may be combined. As a result, the periphery
of the knee is firmly supported. In this case, it is desirable that a tightening portion
be formed from the upper part of the above-knee tightening portion to a portion that
corresponds to at least either the inside or outside of the thigh, and that a tightening
portion be formed from the lower part of the below-knee tightening portion to a portion
that corresponds to at least either the inside or outside of the ankle. Furthermore,
it is even more desirable that these tightening portions be formed from the upper
part of the above-knee tightening portion to the upper parts of the inside and outside
of the thigh, and from the lower part of the below-knee tightening portion to the
lower parts of the inside and outside of the ankle (to the hem in the case of ankle
length). A thigh front side tightening portion and crus front side tightening portion
are formed by these tightening portions. Meanwhile, it is desirable that the thigh
rear side tightening portion formed on the rear side of the thigh be inclined in the
opposite direction form the thigh front side tightening portion when seen from either
the front side or the rear side of the spats 1. Furthermore, it is desirable that
the crus rear side tightening portion formed on the rear side of the crus be inclined
in the opposite direction from the crus front side tightening portion when seen from
either the front side or the rear side of the spats 1. As a result of the front and
rear tightening portions thus being formed with opposite inclinations, the thigh,
knee and calf are supported with a better balance.
[0085] In this manner, when the thigh is supported from front and behind with the thigh
front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion, and the crus
is supported from front and behind with the crus front side tightening portion and
the crus rear side tightening portion, the hip joint, the knee joint, and ankle can
pivot inwardly and outwardly and rotate inwardly and outwardly further easily. As
the knee is supported from the left and right by part of each tightening portion,
the knee joint can bend and stretch easily.
[0086] The relationship in inclination among the respective tightening portions between
the front side of the thigh and the front side of the crus, or between the rear side
of the thigh and the rear side of the crus is preferably set such that the inclinations
of the tightening portions of the thigh and the inclinations of the tightening portions
of the crus are opposite to each other. Then, in the entire leg including the thigh
and calf, muscles necessary for the inner and outer pivoting motion and the inner
and outer rotating motion can be supported with a better balance.
[0087] Regarding the tightening portions formed on the thigh and crus, it suffices as far
as the tightening portions formed on one of the thigh and crus are formed to clamp
the thigh or crus from front and behind. In this case, the tightening portions formed
on the other may be formed to clamp the crus or thigh from the left and right. This
will be described in detail. For example, on the thigh, it suffices as far as tightening
portions are formed to clamp the thigh from front and behind and are in contact with
the inner and outer sides of the knee, while on the crus, it suffices as far as tightening
portions are formed to clamp the crus from the left and right and to reach the hem.
Alternatively, on the thigh, tightening portions may be formed to clamp the thigh
from the left and right and are in contact with the inner and outer sides of the knee,
while on the crus, tightening portions may be formed to clamp the crus from front
and behind and to reach the hem. When the tightening portions are formed in this manner,
the thigh or crus is firmly supported from front and behind, and the knee is firmly
supported from the left and right. Hence, muscles necessary for respective movements
in the inner and outer pivoting motion, inner and outer rotating motion, and bending
and stretching motion can be supported with a good balance
[0088] Furthermore, in cases where the thigh is supported from the front and back by a thigh
front side tightening portion and a thigh rear side tightening portion, it is sufficient
if the garment has at least one of the tightening portions, i. e., either a crus front
side tightening portion or a crus rear side tightening portion.
[0089] Furthermore, in cases where the thigh is supported from the front and back by a thigh
front side tightening portion and a thigh rear side tightening portion, the thigh
front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion may be respectively
formed in substantially the same position in a portion corresponding to the front
side or rear side of the thigh as seen from the front side or rear side of the thigh,
or the thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion
may be formed so that these tightening portions are shifted in the vertical direction.
For example, there is a case wherein the thigh front side tightening portion is formed
above a portion corresponding to the front side of the thigh, and the thigh rear side
tightening portion is formed below a portion corresponding to the rear side of the
thigh. Also, there is a case wherein the thigh front side tightening portion is formed
below a portion corresponding to the front side of the thigh, and the thigh rear side
tightening portion is formed above a portion corresponding to the rear side of the
thigh.
[0090] Furthermore, in cases where the crus is supported from the front and back by a crus
front side tightening portion and a crus rear side tightening portion, the crus front
side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening portion may be respectively
formed in substantially the same position in a portion corresponding to the front
side or rear side of the crus as seen from the front side or rear side of the crus,
or the crus front side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening portion may
be formed so that these tightening portions are shifted in the vertical direction.
For example, there is a case wherein the crus front side tightening portion is formed
above a portion corresponding to the front side of the crus, and the crus rear side
tightening portion is formed below a portion corresponding to the rear side of the
crus. Also, there is a case wherein the crus front side tightening portion is formed
below a portion corresponding to the front side of the crus, and the crus rear side
tightening portion is formed above a portion corresponding to the rear side of the
crus.
[0091] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the tightening portion 2 was described as
being divided into a thigh portion and a crus portion; however, this division was
made for convenience of description, and does not indicate that the tightening portion
2 is split into a thigh portion and crus portion.
[0092] The embodiment described above exemplifies cases wherein present invention is applied
to ankle-length sports spats which cover the hips to crus. The present invention can
also be applied to above-knee-length sports spats which cover the hips to thighs,
and below-knee-length sports spats which cover from the hips to below-knee portions.
The present invention can also be applied to sports spats having a portion for covering
the upper half of the body above the waist, or sports spats or tights having a portion
extending downward from the ankle across the sole of the foot. Furthermore, these
sport spats may be sports spats that have a protective pad in the crotch area.
[0093] A practical example of the above-knee-length sports spats will be described with
reference to Figs. 17 to 21. Fig. 17A is a front view of the above-knee-length sports
spats and shows a state wherein the thigh front side tightening portion 2b described
above is formed on the front side of the thigh. Fig. 17B is a rear view of the above-knee-length
sports spats and shows a state wherein the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c and
thigh rear side tightening portion 2d described above are formed on the rear side
of the thigh. In the spats shown in Figs. 17A and 17B, on the thigh, the thigh front
side tightening portion 2b and thigh rear side tightening portion 2c are formed to
incline in the same direction, and the thigh front side tightening portion 2b an thigh
rear side tightening portion 2d are formed to incline in opposite directions. The
thigh front side tightening portion 2b contacts the side part of the pelvic region
including the greater trochanter 113, and is formed in a portion that extends in the
upper direction along the side part of the pelvic region and reaches the waist. The
thigh rear side tightening portion 2c connects with the thigh front side tightening
portion 2b at the side part of the pelvic region, and further contacts the upper part
of the pelvic region as well; the left and right thigh rear side tightening portions
are connected at the rear center of the upper part of the pelvic region. As a result
of such a connection, tension is mutually applied to the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2c and thigh front side tightening portion 2b, so that the effect that supports
the muscles of the thigh is increased, and so that the knee joint is supported. Furthermore,
the upper ends of the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d located on the left and
right thighs are connected in the vicinity of the connecting point of the hip bones
(lower part of the natal cleft). As a result, tension is mutually applied to the thigh
rear side tightening portions 2d located on the left and right thighs. Furthermore,
the upper part of thigh rear side tightening portion 2d may be positioned on the inside
upper part of the rear side of the thigh (below the crotch). Furthermore, the lower
end of thigh front side tightening portion 2b and the lower end of thigh rear side
tightening portion 2c are positioned at the hem part S on the inside of the thigh,
and the lower end of thigh rear side tightening portion 2d is positioned at the hem
part S on the outside of the thigh. The lower end of this thigh front side tightening
portion 2b and the lower end of the thigh rear side tightening portion 2c are connected
on the inside of the thigh. It is desirable that the vertical width of this connection
area be approximately 5 to 10 cm. When the respective tightening portions are formed
in this manner, the wearer's thigh is firmly supported from front and behind. Of the
lower end of a thigh front side tightening portion 2a, the lower end of the thigh
rear side tightening portion 2c, and the lower end of the thigh rear side tightening
portion 2d, all the lower ends need not be located at the hem S of the sports spats,
but it suffices as far as at least either one lower end is located at the hem S. Also,
the lower end position of the tightening portion 2 as described above applies to the
above-knee length sports spats, shown in Fig. 18 through Fig. 21 described below,
as well.
[0094] Fig. 18 (a) is a diagram showing above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
front surface. This diagram shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening
portion 2b is formed on the front side of [each] thigh, and abdomen tightening portions
2x are formed on the abdomen. Fig. 18 (b) is a diagram which shows these above-knee
length sports spats as from the back surface. This diagram shows a state in which
a thigh rear side tightening portion 2cw which is the lower part of the thigh rear
side tightening portion 2c, and a thigh rear side tightening portion 2d, are formed
on the rear side of [each] thigh. The abdomen tightening portions 2x shown in Fig.
18 (a) connects with the thigh front side tightening portions 2b at the side parts
of the pelvic region. The abdomen tightening portions 2x located on the left and right
connect with each other at the center of the abdomen. As a result, the thigh front
side tightening portions 2b that contact both side parts of the pelvic region can
be pulled toward the center of the body, so that the hip joints can be stabilized.
Specifically, as a result of the formation of the abdomen tightening portions 2x,
a force that pulls both side parts of the pelvic region toward the inside can be applied,
so that the pelvis can be stabilized. It is desirable that the abdomen tighten portions
2x be formed so that these portions contact an area above the lower abdomen. As a
result, pressure on the lower abdomen near the crotch can be prevented. Furthermore,
the material of the abdomen tightening portions 2x may be a separate material that
has a weaker tightening force than the material of the thigh front side tightening
portions 2b, or may be the same material as that of the thigh front side tightening
portions 2b. The abdomen tightening portions 2x and thigh front side tightening portions
2b may be continuous, and may be constructed from the same material. Furthermore,
it is desirable that the width of the abdomen tightening portions 2x is 2 cm or greater,
and a width of approximately 5 to 15 cm is even more desirable. The width of the abdomen
tightening portions 2x may be a uniform width; alternatively, the width of the abdomen
tightening portions 2x may narrow toward the center of the body from the side parts
of the pelvic region, or may increase toward the center of the body from the side
parts of the pelvic region. Furthermore, the abdomen tightening portions 2x may be
sewed to the inside of the main body cloth, or may be sewed to the outside of the
main body cloth. The connecting portions between the abdomen tightening portions 2x
and the thigh front side tightening portions 2b are sewed to the main body cloth;
however, the upper edges and lower edges of the abdomen tightening portions 2x may
be in a floating state without being sewed to the main body cloth. Furthermore, the
thigh rear side tightening portions 2cw shown in Fig. 18 (b) connect with parts of
the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d located near the center of the rear side
of each thigh, and are formed only on the lower inside of each thigh. Furthermore,
thigh rear side tightening portions 2cw and thigh front side tightening portions 2b
may be connected on the lower inside of each thigh.
[0095] Fig. 19 (a) is a diagram showing above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
front surface. This diagram shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening
portions 2b are formed on the front side of each thigh, and abdomen tightening portions
2y are formed on the abdomen. Fig. 19 (b) is a diagram which shows these above-knee
length sports spats as seen from the back surface; this diagram shows a state in which
thigh rear side tightening portions 2cu which are the upper portions of the thigh
rear side tightening portions 2c, and thigh rear side tightening portions 2d, are
formed on the rear side of each thigh. The abdomen tightening portions 2y shown in
Fig. 19 (a) are connected with the thigh front side tightening portions 2b at the
side parts of the pelvic region. These abdomen tightening portions 2y are formed so
as to contact the upper abdomen. As a result, the thigh front side tightening portions
2b contacting both side parts of the pelvic region can be pulled toward the center
of the body, so that the hip joints can be stabilized. Specifically, as a result of
the formation of the abdomen tightening portions 2y, both side parts of the pelvic
region can be pulled toward the inside, so that the pelvis can be stabilized. The
abdomen tightening portions 2y have a maximum width in the connecting portions with
the thigh front side tightening portions 2b, and these tightening portions extend
to a point beyond the front center of the body with the width of the tightening portions
gradually decreasing toward the front center of the body. Accordingly, the abdomen
tightening portions 2y located on the left and right overlap in the portions that
extend beyond the front center of the body Furthermore, it is desirable that the width
of the widest portions be approximately 10 cm. Moreover, the material of the abdomen
tightening portions 2y may be a separate material from that of the thigh front side
tightening portions 2b, or may be the same material as that of the thigh front side
tightening portions 2b. The abdomen tightening portions 2y and thigh front side tightening
portions 2b may be continuous, and may be constructed from the same material. Furthermore,
the connecting portions between the abdomen tightening portions 2y and thigh front
side tightening portions 2b are sewed to the main body cloth; however, either the
upper cdges or the lower edges of the abdomen tightening portions 2y may be in a floating
state without being sewed to the main body cloth. Furthermore, the thigh rear side
tightening portions 2cu shown in Fig. 19 (b) connect with parts of the thigh rear
side tightening portions 2d located near the center of the rear side of each thigh,
and contact the upper outside of each thigh; these connect with the thigh front side
tightening portions in the vicinity of the greater trochanter, and are formed on the
upper part of the pelvic region.
[0096] Fig. 20 (a) is a diagram showing above-knee length sports spats as seen from the
front surface; this diagram shows a state in which the thigh front side tightening
portions 2b are formed on the front side of each thigh, and abdomen tightening portions
2z are formed on the abdomen. Fig. 20 (b) is a diagram which shows these above-knee
length sports spats as seen from the back surface; this diagram shows a state in which
the thigh rear side tightening portions 2c, and thigh rear side tightening portions
2dw which are the lower parts of the thigh rear side tightening portions 2d, are formed
on the rear side of each thigh. The abdomen tightening portions 2z shown in Fig. 20
(a) are formed by a material that is continuous with the thigh front side tightening
portions 2b. Furthermore, the material of the abdomen tightening portions 2z may also
be a separate material from that of the thigh front side tightening portions 2b. The
abdomen tightening portions 2z have a maximum width in the portions that are continuous
with the thigh front side tightening portions 2b, and this width gradually decreases
toward the front center of the body. Furthermore, it is desirable that the width of
the widest portion be approximately 10 cm, and it is desirable that the width of the
narrowest portion be approximately 5 cm. Furthermore, the abdomen tightening portions
2z located on the left and right arc connected to each other at the front center of
the body. As a result, the thigh front side tightening portions 2b contacting both
side parts of the pelvic region can be pulled toward the center of the body, so that
the hip joints can be stabilized. Specifically, as a result of the formation of the
abdomen tightening portions 2z, a force that pulls both side parts of the pelvic region
toward the inside can be applied, so that the pelvis can be stabilized. Furthermore,
either the upper edges or the lower edges of the abdomen tightening portions 2z may
be in a floating state without being sewed to the main body cloth. Furthermore, the
thigh rear side tightening portions 2dw shown in Fig. 20 (b) connect with parts of
the thigh rear side tightening portions 2c located near the center of the rear side
of each thigh, and are formed only on the lower outside of each thigh. Moreover, thigh
front side tightening portions 2b and thigh rear side tightening portions 2c are connected
in the vicinity of the greater trochanter on the lower inside of each thigh and upper
outside of each thigh. Furthermore, the three types of the abdomen tightening portions
2x, 2y and 2z described above may be appropriately combined with various tightening
portions described in the other embodiments (ankle length sports spats) described
above.
[0097] Furthermore, the abdomen tightening portions 2x, 2y and 2z shown in Figs. 18A, 19A
and 20A connect the thigh front side tightening portions 2b formed in portions corresponding
to the left and right side parts of the pelvic region; however, the tightening portions
connected by the abdomen tightening portions 2x, 2y and 2z are not limited to the
thigh front side tightening portions 2b. For example, these tightening portions may
also be thigh rear side tightening portions, or other tightening portions formed in
portions corresponding to both the left and right side parts of the pelvic region.
Specifically, in the description relating to the Figs. 18 through 20, the thigh front
side tightening portions 2b were used for convenience of description as the tightening
portions connected by the abdomen tightening portions 2x, 2y and 2z; however, the
tightening portions connected by the abdomen tightening portions 2x, 2y and 2z may
be pelvic region tightening portions formed in portions corresponding to the left
and right side parts of the pelvic region. By having the abdomen tightening portions
2x, 2y and 2z connected to the sections of the pelvic region tightening portion corresponding
to the left and right sides of the pelvic region, tension can be applied to the pelvic
region tightening portion. Also, this type of abdomen tightening portion and pelvic
region tightening portion can be combined with the various tightening portions formed
at the thigh, the knee, and the lower thigh in the embodiments described above.
[0098] Fig. 21A is a diagram of above-knee length sports spats as seen from the front surface;
this diagram shows a state in which thigh front side tightening portion 2bx that are
modifications of the thigh front side tightening portions 2b are formed on the front
side of each thigh.
Fig. 21B is a diagram of these above-knee length sports spats as seen from the back
surface; this diagram shows a state in which the thigh rear side tightening portions
2c, and thigh rear side tightening portions 2du that are the upper portions of the
thigh rear side tightening portions 2d, are formed on the rear side of each thigh.
The thigh front side tightening portions 2bx shown in Fig. 21A are formed by curving
the line of the thigh front side tightening portions 2b in an indented shape toward
the upper part on the front surface of each thigh. The thigh front side tightening
portions 2bx are formed so that these tightening portions contact portions that extend
from the vicinity of the greater trochanter 113, pass over the upper portion of the
front surface of the thigh, and reach the lower inside of the thigh. Specifically,
the thigh front side tightening portions 2bx reach the greater trochanter without
passing over the bulge of the rectus femoris. Accordingly, compared to a case in which
the thigh front side tightening portions 2bx are formed with a rectilinear shape,
an effect that prevents pressure on the bulge of the muscles when the rectus femoris
bulges outward is obtained to the extent that the tightening portions do not pass
over the bulge of the rectus femoris. The thigh front side tightening portions 2bx
connect with the thigh rear side tightening portions 2c shown in Fig. 21B from the
vicinity of the greater trochanter in the side parts of the pelvic region. The lower
parts of the thigh front side tightening portions 2bx connect with the lower parts
of the thigh rear side tightening portions 2c at the lower inside of each thigh. Furthermore,
it is desirable that the width of the thigh front side tightening portions 2bx be
approximately 10 to 15 cm in the portions of maximum width that contact the areas
in the vicinity of the side parts of the pelvic region, and that this width be approximately
4 to 5 cm in the portions of minimum width that contact the thighs. It is desirable
that the vertical width of the connecting portions between the lower parts of the
thigh front side tightening portions 2bx and the lower parts of the thigh rear side
tightening portions 2c on the insides of the thighs be approximately 8 cm. As a result
of the formation of such thigh front side tightening portions 2bx, muscular contractions
on the front surfaces of the thighs can be supported. Furthermore, the thigh rear
side tightening portions 2du shown in Fig. 21B connect with parts of the thigh rear
side tightening portions 2c located near the center of the rear side of each thigh,
and are formed only on the upper inside of each thigh.
[0099] Furthermore, concrete examples of the respective tightening portions formed in the
above-knee length sports spats (Figs. 17 through 21) may also be applied to ankle
length sports spats, below-knee length sports spats or the like.
[0100] Furthermore, in sports spats, the tightening portions formed on the pelvic region
above the thighs may also be formed as follows. For example, these tightening portions
may be formed in locations including the greater trochanter on the outsides of the
thighs, and may further contact the side parts of the pelvic region from the greater
trochanter, and be formed continuously in a substantially rectilinear shape to the
waist. Furthermore, these tightening portions may contact the side parts of the pelvic
region and the area above the swell of the hips from the greater trochanter, and may
terminate at the waistline. Alternatively, these tightening portions may extend from
the area above the swell of the hips toward the rear center, and the left and right
tightening portions may be connected in the vicinity of the rear center of the waistline.
The tightening portion may extend from the greater trochanter along part of the bulge
of the hips and its left and right portions may be connected to each other near the
rear center of the waist line. The tightening portion may extend from the greater
trochanter along the abdomen and its left and right portions may be connected to each
other at the center of the abdomen. The tightening portion may be formed by combining
these tightening portions.
[0101] The method of adding a tightening portion to the garment with a crotch according
to the present invention is not limited to the method described in the above embodiment.
For example, a stretchable cloth having a predetermined shape may be overlaid on the
main body of a garment with a crotch and be sewn together, thus forming a tightening
portion, or a stretchable cloth having a predetermined shape may be overlaid on the
main body of a garment with a crotch and be adhered to it, thus forming a tightening
portion. If such methods are used, the difference in the tightening force between
the main body of the garment and the tightening portions can easily be set in an appropriate
manner; furthermore, a large tightening force difference can be achieved. A tightening
portion and other portions may be formed as parts having predetermined shapes, and
may be connected to each other, thus forming a garment with a crotch according to
the present invention. The tightening portion may be formed by the method of stretching
a stretchable cloth having a predetermined shape and overlaying it on the main body
of a garment with a crotch, and sewing or adhering them together. Furthermore, in
cases where a material that is stretchable is overlaid on the garment with a crotch,
it is desirable that the tightening force of this stretchable material that forms
the tightening portions be stronger than the tightening force of the main body of
the garment with a crotch. According to these methods, a strong tightening force can
be obtained by the tightening portion. Alternatively, the tightening portion may be
formed by the method of impregnating with an elastic resin a predetermined portion
of the main body of a garment with a crotch, or adhering an elastic resin film to
the predetermined portion of the main body of a garment with a crotch. According to
these methods, a garment with a comparatively thin tightening portion can be obtained.
As the elastic resin, a polyurethane resin, a polyester elastomer resin, or other
elastic resins can be employed. According to these methods, overlaying need not be
performed, so a garment with a thinner tightening portion can be obtained. Furthermore,
tightening portions may be formed by a knitted fabric with a strong tightening force
by varying the knitted fabric of the stretchable material forming the main body of
the garment with a crotch by means of jacquard weaving such as warp knitting or circular
knitting, so that a difference in the strength of the tightening force is obtained.
According to these methods, overlaying need not be performed, so a garment with a
thinner tightening portion can be obtained. Furthermore, in cases where a circular
knit material or the like is used as the material that forms the garment with a crotch,
tightening portions with a relatively strong tightening force can also be formed by
cut-boss knitting in which yarn is partially added. In the case of circular knitting,
a difference in the strength of the tightening force can also be obtained by combining
a method that varies the knitted fabric and a cut-boss knitting method in which yam
is partially added.
[0102] Although the embodiment described above exemplifies sports spats as a typical example
of a garment with a crotch, the present invention can also be applied to garments
other than sports spats. For example, the present invention can also be applied to
a garment with a crotch such as girdles, sports tights, spats-type swimming wear,
sports wear, panty hoses, and tights.
[0103] With the garment with the crotch according to the present invention, as the motions
of muscles necessary for the bending and stretching motion, the inner and outer pivoting
motion and the inner and outer rotating motion can be supported by the band-like tightening
portion, an excellent effect that the motion of the leg can be supported with a good
balance can be expected.
Industrial Applicability
[0104] The present invention relates to a sports garment with a crotch that support the
motion of the leg with a good balance.
1. A garment with a crotch for covering at least part of the lower half of a body, characterized in that
a band-like tightening portion at least has, at a front side portion corresponding
to the front side of a thigh, a thigh front side tightening portion formed obliquely
from above to below the front side portion, and, at a rear side portion corresponding
to the rear side of the thigh, a thigh rear side tightening portion formed obliquely
from above to below the rear side portion.
2. The garment with a crotch according to claim 1, characterized in that the thigh front side tightening portion and the thigh rear side tightening portion
respectively incline in opposite directions with respect to a vertical direction when
seen from either the front side or rear side.
3. the garment with a crotch according to claim 1, characterized in that the thigh front side tightening portion and the thigh rear side tightening portion
respectively incline in same direction with respect to a vertical direction when seen
from either the front side or rear side.
4. the garment with a crotch according to claim 3, characterized in that the thigh front side tightening portion and the thigh rear side tightening portion
are continuous on at least either an inside of the thigh or an outside of the thigh.
5. the garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 4, characterized in that part of the tightening portion is formed at a portion corresponding to a greater
trochanter.
6. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 4, characterized in that the tightening portion further has a thigh lower part tightening portion which is
formed obliquely from an intermediate point on at least either the thigh front side
tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening portion to the lower inside of the
thigh or lower outside of the thigh.
7. The garment with a crotch according to claim 6, characterized in that a width of the thigh lower part tightening portion is narrower than a width of the
thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion.
8. The garment with a crotch according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the thigh lower part tightening portion is formed from the vicinity of the center
in the longitudinal direction of at least either the thigh front side tightening portion
or thigh rear side tightening portion at the thigh.
9. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 6 through 8, characterized in that one part of the thigh lower part tightening portion is formed in a portion corresponding
to the inside of the knee or the outside of the knee.
10. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 6 through 8, characterized in that the thigh lower part tightening portion connects the thigh front side tightening
portion or thigh rear side tightening portion with another tightening portion that
is formed in a portion corresponding to the inside of the knee or the outside of the
knee.
11. The garment with a crotch according to any of claims 1 through 4, characterized in that the tightening portion further has a thigh upper part tightening portion which is
formed obliquely from an intermediate point on at least either the thigh front side
tightening portion or thigh rear side tightening portion to the upper inside of the
thigh or the upper outside of the thigh.
12. The garment with a crotch according to claim 11, characterized in that a width of the thigh upper part tightening portion is narrower than a width of the
thigh front side tightening portion and thigh rear side tightening portion.
13. The garment with a crotch according to claim 11, characterized in that the thigh upper part tightening portion is formed from the vicinity of the center
in the longitudinal direction of at least either the thigh front side tightening portion
or thigh rear side tightening portion at the thigh.
14. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 13, characterized in that the tightening portion further has a crus front side tightening portion which is
formed obliquely at the front portion corresponding to the front side of the crus
from above to below this front side portion.
15. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 14, characterized in that the tightening portion further has a crus rear side tightening portion which is formed
obliquely at the rear portion corresponding to the rear side of the crus from above
to below this rear side portion.
16. A garment with a crotch for covering at least part of a lower half of a body, characterized in that
a band-like tightening portion at least has, at a front side portion corresponding
to a front side of a crus, a crus front side tightening portion formed obliquely from
above to below the front side portion and, at a rear side portion corresponding to
a rear side of the curs, a crus rear side tightening portion formed obliquely from
above to below the rear side portion.
17. the garment with a crotch according to claim 16, characterized in that the crus front side tightening portion and the crus rear side tightening portion
respectively incline in opposite directions with respect to a vertical direction when
seen from either the front side or rear side.
18. the garment with a crotch according to claim 16, characterized in that the crus front side tightening portion and the crus rear side tightening portion
respectively incline in same direction with respect to a vertical direction when seen
from either the front side or rear side.
19. the garment with a crotch according to claim 18, characterized in that the crus front side tightening portion and the crus rear side tightening portion
are continuous on at least either an inside of the crus or an outside of the crus.
20. The garment with a crotch according to claim 18, characterized in that the crus front side tightening portion and crus rear side tightening portion are
continuous on both the inside of the crus and the outside of the crus.
21. the garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 20, characterized in that part of the tightening portion is formed at a portion corresponding to at least either
an inside of a knee or an outside of the knee.
22. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 21, characterized in that the tightening portion further has a below-knee tightening portion which is formed
from a portion corresponding to the inside of the knee and a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee to a portion corresponding to the area below the knee,
and the upper edge of the below-knee tightening portion is formed in shape that is
indented toward the lower part of the crus.
23. the garment with a crotch according to claim 22, characterized in that the tightening portion is formed to further extend from a lower portion of the below-knee
tightening portion to a portion corresponding to at least either one of an inner side
of an ankle and an outer side of the ankle.
24. the garment with a crotch according to claim 23, characterized in that the portion corresponding to an upper side of the knee is formed of a soft tightening
portion having a softer tightening portion than that of the tightening portion.
25. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 23, characterized in that the tightening portion further has an above-knee tightening portion which is formed
from a portion corresponding to the inside of the knee and a portion corresponding
to the outside of the knee to a portion corresponding to the upper side of the knee,
and that the lower edge of the above-knee tightening portion is formed in a shape
that is indented toward the upper part of the thigh.
26. the garment with a crotch according to claim 1, characterized in that
the garment has a hem part formed in a portion corresponding to the area above a knee,
and
at least either the lower end of the thigh front side tightening portion or the lower
end of the thigh rear side tightening portion is located at the hem part.
27. The garment with a crotch according to any one of claims 1 through 26, characterized in that the tightening portion further has pelvic region tightening portions which are formed
in portions corresponding to the left and right side portions of the pelvic region,
and an abdomen tightening portion which is formed in a portion corresponding to the
abdomen, and the abdomen tightening portion connects the pelvic region tightening
portions located on the left and right sides.
28. The garment with a crotch according to claim 26, characterized in that the upper part of the thigh front side tightening portion and the upper part of the
thigh rear side tightening portion are connected in a portion corresponding to the
side part of the pelvic region, and the lower part of the thigh front side tightening
portion and the lower part of the thigh rear side tightening portion are connected
in a portion corresponding to the lower part of the inside of the thigh.
29. The garment with a crotch according to claim 1 through 26, characterized in that the thigh front side tightening portion is formed from the lower part of the inside
of the thigh to the greater trochanter via the upper part of the front surface of
the thigh, and is formed so that this portion is curved in an indented shape toward
the upper part of the thigh.