Abstract: A wetsuit is composed multiple panels sewn together in edge-to-edge relationship, each panel comprising a highly stretchable base fabric sandwiched between an outer and inner layer of synthetic rubber, the outer synthetic rubber layer is dense and tough, providing protection against damage by abrasion, while the inner synthetic rubber layer is thicker and less dense, providing the material with a good insulating ability. The outer layer is thinner than the inner layer to compensate for the higher elastic modulus of the denser outer layer, so that the layers stretch uniformly. A thin, colored, chloroprene adhesive coating is provided on the outside of the outer layer, and the outer layer is embossed with a mesh pattern. The seams are blind-stitched through the base fabric from the outside. Because the stretchable fabric is on the inside of the wetsuit material, the wetsuit dries rapidly.

Abstract: An orthopedic sleeve for supporting a joint of a limb of a human patient has an external face, an internal face and two lateral faces. The sleeve is in the form of a tube with an open upper end and an open lower end. The sleeve has a first section with a layer of a stiff elastomer and a second section with a panel of stretchable, breathable fabric. The second section is connected to the first section along a pair of seams, which extend lengthwise along the limb of the patient adjacent to the lateral faces of the joint. The first and second sections are connected via the use of an overlock or flat stitch, which allows for a smooth interior surface of the sleeve. The sleeve can also shaped to conform to the natural bend of a joint via cutting sections of the first section of the sleeve, and connecting the severed edges via a zig-zag stitch to form two seams.

Abstract: A lumbosacral support includes an elastic belt adapted to be worn around a person's waist and includes Velcro fasteners at its ends. The belt carries a double layer foam pad adjacent the middle thereof which is adapted to lie against the wearer's lower back. A vertically extending trough-like groove is cut away from the central portion of the pad. The pad directly overlies the wearer's spine whereby when the wearer presses against a seat back, the pad puts pressure on the supporting lumbosacral musculature on either side of the spine but does not put pressure directly on the spinal column.