TRAINING AND RECOVERY CLOTHING AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

This disclosure relates to training and recovery clothing and related methods. In some aspects, a garment includes a fabric having about 41-54 wt % polyester, 27-43 wt % nylon, and about 16-19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer, and the fabric is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the garment. In some aspects, a shoe includes a tongue with an inner surface to which a stand-alone polyester fiber is threaded through in a netting configuration, the fiber is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the shoe.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 61/364,332, entitled “Training and Recovery Clothing and Related Methods,” filed on Jul. 14, 2010, and to Provisional Patent Application No. 61/260,528, entitled “Compression Clothing,” filed on Nov. 12, 2009. The above-noted provisional patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to training and recovery clothing and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Athletes have worn compression clothing for a while, and it has been widely believed that compression clothing can reduce (e.g., minimize) the risk of injury and/or increase (e.g., maximize) the athlete's performance. In addition, compression clothing has been believed to enhance or expedite recovery in recent years.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the invention, a garment includes a fabric having about 41-54 wt % polyester, 27-43 wt % nylon, and about 16-19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer. The fabric is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the garment.

In another aspect of the invention, a one-piece garment includes a first portion constructed to cover a torso of a wearer, a first pair of sleeves constructed to cover arms of the wearer, and a second pair of sleeves constructed to cover legs of the wearer. The first portion of the garment includes a gusset through which the wearer can enter the one-piece garment, and the garment is constructed from a fabric shown to increase oxygen levels in the wearer of the garment.

In an additional aspect of the invention, a method includes wearing a garment after exercising. The garment is constructed to increase oxygen levels in the wearer of the garment.

In a further aspect of the invention, an improved type of compression clothing is provided. In addition to one or more of the benefits of conventional compression clothing, additional benefits may be obtained by incorporating a unique fiber into the compression clothing. The clothing can increase oxygen levels in the blood of a subject wearing the clothing.

In another aspect of the invention, a shoe has a tongue with a fabric disposed on an inner surface of the tongue, and the fabric is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the shoe.

In an additional aspect of the invention, an improved type of compression clothing is provided. In addition to one or more of the benefits of conventional compression clothing, additional benefits may be obtained by incorporating a unique fiber into the compression clothing. The clothing can increase oxygen levels in the blood of a subject wearing the clothing.

In a further aspect of the invention, compression clothing is provided which is made with fibers known as Celliant® fibers, which can be obtained from Hologenix, LLC, of Newport Beach, Calif. As set forth in greater detail below, Celliant® fiber is a specially formulated responsive material that is knit, woven, or added to fabrics to enhance oxygen levels in the body.

Embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the fabric is constructed to absorb light emitted by the wearer of the garment and re-emit the absorbed light to increase oxygen levels in the wearer.

In certain embodiments, the fabric includes a material including a polyester carrier material combined with optically active particles. The material is able to absorb light emitted by the wearer and re-emit the absorbed light at different wavelengths.

In some embodiments, a 1 meter by 1 meter piece of the fabric has a mass of about 210 to 263 grams.

In certain embodiments, the polyurethane-polyurea copolymer is treated with an antimicrobial agent.

In some embodiments, the garment is constructed to exert a compression pressure of about 14-22 mmHg on the wearer of the garment.

In certain embodiments, the garment is a compression garment.

In some embodiments, the garment is a full body compression suit.

In certain embodiments, the compression garment is any of: a long-sleeve shirt, a short-sleeve shirt, a pair of pants, a pair of shorts, an arm warmer, a calf warmer, a thigh warmer, and a pair of socks.

In some embodiments, the full body compression suit is constructed to substantially entirely cover a torso, arms, and legs of the wearer.

In certain embodiments, the full body compression suit is constructed to exert a compression pressure on the wearer of about 14-22 mmHg.

In some embodiments, the full body compression suit is constructed to exert a compression pressure of about 18-22 mmHg at an ankle of a wearer.

In certain embodiments, the compression suit is constructed to exert a compression pressure of between 14-18 mmHg at a top welt of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the compression suit is constructed to exert a compression pressure at a mid or top part of a calf of a wearer that is 60%-80% of the compression pressured exerted at an ankle of the wearer.

In certain embodiments, the fabric has about 54 wt % polyester, 27 wt % nylon, and about 19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

In some embodiments, the garment is a recovery garment.

In other embodiments, the fabric has about 41 wt % polyester, 43 wt % nylon, and about 16 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

In certain embodiments, the garment is an athletic training garment.

In some embodiments, a gusset is in a rear surface of the torso portion of a one-piece full body recovery garment.

In certain embodiments, a gusset is formed of first and second flaps of material that overlap one another.

In some embodiments, the garment is worn for a period of time that is between about 90 minutes to about 8 hours.

In certain embodiments, the garment is worn for a period of time that is between about 3 hours to about 8 hours.

In some embodiments, the one-piece garment is worn while the wearer is sleeping.

In certain embodiments, the oxygen levels in the wearer increases while the garment is worn for a period of time.

In some embodiments, the increased oxygen levels facilitate recovery of the wearer after exercising.

In certain embodiments, the fabric disposed on the inner surface of the tongue of the shoe includes a conventional polyester material through which a stand-alone polyester fiber is threaded, and the stand-alone polyester fiber is constructed to increase the oxygen levels in the wearer of the shoe.

In some embodiments, the fabric disposed on the inner surface of the tongue of the shoe includes about 50% of the conventional polyester material and about 50% of the stand-alone polyester fiber.

In certain embodiments, the fabric disposed on the inner surface of the tongue of the shoe is constructed to absorb light emitted by the wearer of the shoe and to re-emit the absorbed light to increase blood oxygen levels in the wearer.

In some embodiments, the shoe is constructed to pull the fabric disposed on the inner surface of the tongue of the shoe into direct contact with a top portion of the wearer's foot during use.

In certain embodiments, the shoe is a recovery shoe.

In some embodiments, all surfaces of the shoe other than the inner surface of the tongue are substantially free of the fabric.

Various embodiments of the present invention provide certain advantages. Not all embodiments of the invention share the same advantages and those that do may not share them under all circumstances. Embodiments can include one or more of the following advantages.

In some embodiments, the garment includes a material that absorbs light energy emitted from the body of the wearer and re-emits the absorbed light. This construction increases oxygen levels in the blood of the wearer and thus helps to enhance or expedite recovery.

In certain embodiments, the garment is configured to apply a compression force that is less than the compression force typically applied by conventional compression clothing. This level of compression force can further contribute to increased oxygen levels in the body of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the garment is configured to apply a substantial compression force that supports muscles of the wearer and thus reduces potentially harmful vibrations experienced by those muscles. Such garments can provide a combination of increased oxygen levels and increased support to the wearer.

Further features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure of various embodiments that incorporate aspects of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a long sleeve compression shirt;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pair of compression pants;

FIG. 3 is a perspective front view of a full body compression recovery suit;

FIG. 4 is a perspective back view of a full body compression recovery suit;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an arm warmer;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a calf sleeve;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pair of compression socks;

FIGS. 8 and 9 are graphs depicting the increased amount of oxygen in the blood with a compression garment according to one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a shoe.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, this invention relates to training and recovery clothing. The clothing is configured to increase oxygen levels in the body of the wearer. Certain aspects of the invention are directed to compression clothing that can provide support to muscles of the wearer and can increase oxygen levels in the blood of the wearer.

It is generally believed that compression clothing having sleeves (worn around the arms, legs or torso) and the like may reduce muscle fatigue and thus improve an athlete's performance. It is also believed that compression clothing articles may increase the power of the athlete. Compression clothing articles may also help to prevent venous thrombosis (blood clots within a vein) because the fitted clothing channels the blood flow to the lower part of the body. It is also believed that wearers wearing compression clothing articles, in general, may suffer less muscle damage, which means they are less susceptible to injuries.

Applicant recognized that modifying compression clothing to include a fabric that is capable of absorbing light emitted by the wearer of the garment and re-emitting the absorbed light may achieve additional benefits. In particular, Applicant recognized that by incorporating such material into compression clothing articles, oxygen levels in the blood may be increased.

In some embodiments, a fiber or yarn known as Celliant® fiber, which can be obtained from Hologenix, LLC, of Newport Beach, Calif., is incorporated into compression clothing articles. Celliant® fiber contains a polyester fiber that is infused with natural minerals. In particular, Celliant® fiber is manufactured from active materials in the form of a powder that contains one or more of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), quartz (SiO₂), and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) in rutile form. The powder has a dry weight ratio of active material of titanium dioxide, quartz, and aluminum oxide of 10:10:2.

Celliant® fiber further includes a resin, such as a polymer. Examples of polymers include polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The powder form of the active materials can be dispersed into the resin, and may constitute about 0.5 percent to about 20 percent of the resin/powder mixture, or between 1 percent to 10 percent of the mixture. In some embodiments, the powder constitutes from about 1 to 2 percent of the total weight of the mixture. In some embodiments, one half ton of fiber can be produced using 100 pounds of the powder combined with about 1000 pounds of PET.

In some embodiments, the powder form of the active materials is introduced into the resin by compounding. In some embodiments in which the active materials are introduced by compounding, 100 pounds of the powder may be combined with about 250 to 300 pounds of PET.

The composition that includes the powder active material and the resin can then be extruded into fibers or be blended with acrylic, acetate, lycra, spandex, polyester, nylon, and rayon. Additional information about Celliant® fiber is provided in U.S. Pat. No. 7,074,499, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Celliant® fiber is a specially formulated fiber or yarn that is infused with natural minerals that act to increase oxygen levels in the body. Increased oxygen levels in the body have been demonstrated to help:

• • 1. Increase strength and build endurance;
  • 2. Promote healing;
  • 3. Reduce recovery time/accelerate recovery;
  • 4. Regulate body temperature.

By incorporating Celliant® fiber or yarn into fabric used to make full or half body compression clothing articles, the athlete may benefit both from the above advantages associated with Celliant® fiber, while also benefiting from advantages associated with compression clothing articles, such as but not limited to minimizing swelling and tissue damage, preventing fatigue by reducing energy lost to muscle vibration during exercise, and improving overall circulation. Thus, incorporating Celliant® fiber into compression clothing articles may create a unique garment with peak performance characteristics.

Applicant has contemplated that a need exists for a plurality of different compositions for compression clothing articles. In particular, a first composition may be designed for an athlete to wear while training, and a second composition may be designed for an athlete to wear after training. The first composition may be designed to include a lower amount of Celliant® fiber in comparison to the second composition. The first composition may be configured to be a thicker heavier fabric.

Applicant has determined that it is desirable for the compression clothing article to be at least 40% Celliant® fiber. In some embodiments, the compression clothing article is designed to have at least 50% Celliant® fiber. For example, the compression clothing article may be 54% Celliant® polyester fiber, 27% nylon and 19% lycra (spandex) treated with antimicrobial agents, such as Microban®. Such an anti-bacterial topical treatment is applied to the fabric of the compression clothing in the finishing process to prevent odor. The percent values indicated above are weight percentages. A piece of fabric with dimensions 1 meter by 1 meter, having the above composition weighs 210 g. This may form a lighter weight garment for use during or after training and may be specifically designed for shorts, tights and after workout recovery outfits, such as sleep suits.

In certain embodiments, the compression clothing article is 41% Celliant® Polyester fiber, 43% nylon and 16% lycra (spandex) treated with antimicrobial agents, such as Microban. Such an anti-bacterial topical treatment applied to the fabric in the finishing process prevents odor. The percent values indicated above are weight percentages. A piece of fabric with a dimension of 1 meter by 1 meter, having the above composition weighs 263 g. This may form a heavier or higher compression garment (due to the increased amount of Nylon). This composition may be for use either during or after training, and may be made into training tops, bottoms, and accessories, which are described in greater detail below.

The garments described herein are typically constructed to apply a compression force of about 14-22 mmHg (e.g., 14-18 mmHg, 18-22 mmHg) to the wearers of the garments. Garments having higher compression levels may be used during training, while garments having lower compression levels may be used after training in recovery outfits and sleep suits. The composition of the fabric can thus be selected for specific needs of the athlete.

It has been found that wearing compression garments of the type described above can result in substantially increased oxygen levels (i.e., about 18.4% to 38.9% increase in oxygen levels) in the skin or tissue of the wearer relative to conventional compression clothing that includes no Celliant® fiber or similar material.

Turning now to the technical details of Celliant® fiber, it is understood that Celliant® fiber works with ambient light and energy emitted from one's body to increase oxygen levels in the body. There are specific cells in the body that are responsible for the transportation of oxygen and it is believed that Celliant® fiber stimulates those cells.

As a general background, all living beings emit heat via an electromagnetic field as a result of the body's metabolic processes. This light is not visible to the naked eye, but may, for example, be visible with an infrared (IR) camera. It is also known that light may have a beneficial effect on the human body. Celliant® fiber technology works with light and the body in a unique way. With Celliant® fiber, the light that is emitted by the body passes through the Celliant® material and is absorbed and re-emitted back to the body in a manner that allows the body to work more efficiently.

In some respects, Celliant® fiber is analogous to many light therapy devices that are approved by the FDA to treat aches and pains and improve blood flow. However, these devices must be powered by a battery or wall socket. In contrast, with Celliant® fiber, this process is powered by the human body. The light energy that is emitted from the human body passes through material made with Celliant® fiber, which absorbs and re-emits the light energy allowing the resulting energy to be reabsorbed by the body.

The Celliant® fibers or yarn may be knit or woven into the compression clothing to enhance oxygen levels in the body. The compression clothing may have a four-way stretch, and in one embodiment, the clothing is made with a tubular knit, and may for example, be made with a 50 denier circular knit with a four-way stretch.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a long sleeve compression shirt 10 and a pair of compression pants 20 that are formed of one of the material combinations described above. Worn together, the shirt 10 and pants 20 form a full body suit, whereas worn separately, each forms a half body suit. The shirt 10 and the pants 20 can be worn before and/or after training to increase oxygen levels in the wearer.

While the shirt 10 and the pants 20, when worn together, form a two-piece full body suit, one-piece full body suits can also be used. FIGS. 3 and 4 are front and back views, respectively, of a one-piece full body compression recovery suit 30. As shown in FIG. 4, an upper back region of the recovery suit 30 includes a gusset 35 that can be expanded to allow a wearer to enter the recovery suit. The gusset 35 is formed of upper and lower flaps of the compression material that overlap one another in the upper region of the back. The flaps of the gusset 35 can be pulled apart to form an opening in the back of the garment. In addition, because the compression material is stretchable, the flaps can be pulled a large enough distance apart from one another to allow a subject to insert his or her legs into the resulting opening and pull the suit up over his or her torso. This arrangement eliminates the need for a zipper or other mechanical closure, which can be uncomfortable for the wearer.

Recovery suit 30 can be worn after exercising to facilitate recovery. The recovery suit 30 can be worn for a period of at least 90 minutes (e.g., at least 3 hours, at least 5 hours, about 90 minutes to about 8 hours, about 3 hours to about 8 hours). In some cases, the recovery 30 suit is worn by a wearer to sleep. Wearing the full body suit for the extended periods of time noted above allows recovery to be sped up and muscle fatigue over the entire body can be reduced during the wearer's sleep. The recovery suit 30, by increasing the oxygen levels in the wearer's skin, tissue, and/or blood, can also promote a more restful and relaxing sleep for the wearer.

Each article of compression clothing discussed above may also include strategically placed seams and/or plush elastic waist bands to give maximum comfort to the wearer.

It should be appreciated that Celliant® fiber may be more broadly incorporated into all types of compression clothing, such as, but not limited to compression shirts, pants, tights, recovery suits, socks, etc.

It is contemplated that having a large body area (such as an athlete's legs, arms and/or torso) covered with compression clothing made with a fabric which includes Celliant® yarns maximizes the benefits of the Celliant® yarns. For example, accessories such as an arm warmer 40 shown in FIG. 5 can be worn to improve blood circulation and reduce (e.g., eliminate) fatigue of specific muscle groups, such as the biceps, the triceps, and also the muscles in the forearm.

As shown in FIG. 6, another example is a calf sleeve 50 that can be worn to expedite or enhance the recovery of the wearer's calf muscles. Both the arm warmer 40 and calf sleeve 50 may alternatively or additionally be worn as training sleeves.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7, a pair of compression socks 60 can be worn to improve blood circulation and combat muscle fatigue of the feet. Due to the treatment of the compression clothing fabric with anti-microbial agents in the finishing process, the pair of compression socks 60 also offers other advantages including the prevention of foot odor from bacteria that may otherwise thrive in a moist and warm environment, increasing the level of comfort for the wearer.

These compression accessories help the wearer in maintaining muscle stability, increasing circulation and enhancing recovery. To promote circulation and prevent swelling and cramping, gradient compression is used in non-medical compression socks and calf to guards or sleeves to exert more pressure as measured in mmHg at the ankle than at locations higher up the calf. Pressure at mid/top part of the calf can be approximately 60-80% of pressure at the ankle. In some embodiments, a pressure of 18-22 mmHg is provided at the ankle, the pressure then tapers to 14-18 mmHg at the top welt.

The compression garments discussed above are designed to have less compression than most conventional compression garments. The compression garments can, for example, be configured to provide a compression force of about 14-22 mmHg when worn by a wearer in an intended size range. It is been found that excessive pressure caused by certain conventional compression garments in areas of the body lead to tourniquet effects, which impair blood circulation and decrease oxygen levels. Higher compression is suitable for training apparel, in order to more effectively reduce vibrations of muscles while exercising so that potential injuries can be reduced. A lower amount of compression is suitable for recovery apparel to ensure good blood circulation. The addition of Celliant® material further enhances or expedites recovery.

It is contemplated that the Celliant® fiber may be uniformly distributed throughout the garment. In another embodiment, it is contemplated that the concentration of the Celliant® fibers may be varied. It is also contemplated that the Celliant® fiber may be located in certain regions of the garment, so as to target selective muscle groups, such as, but not limited to the hamstrings, the quadriceps and/or the biceps or triceps. The compression clothing may be designed for use by athletes, such as, but not limited to runners, triathlon competitors, weight lifters, baseball players, basketball players, football players, etc.

The benefits of incorporating Celliant® fiber in full body or half body compression clothing articles will be discussed in greater detail below using actual clinical testing results.

Clinical testing has been conducted to compare the oxygen levels in test subjects wearing regular street clothing to those same test subjects wearing a full body compression suit of the type described above. Clinical testing was also conducted to compare the oxygen levels in test subjects wearing conventional compression garments with oxygen levels in those same subjects wearing certain garments described above.

These tests were conducted on fifteen test subjects. Eight of the test subjects were tested wearing full body compression suit 30 and then tested wearing street clothing. Seven of the test subjects were tested wearing full body compression suit 30 and then tested wearing convention compression suits. Each test subject in the first group of eight test subjects had his oxygen level measured for 90 minutes while sitting and wearing the full body compression suit 30 by two probes placed respectively at his sternum and at his calf. After 90 minutes, the test subject changed out of the full body compression suit 30 and put on his street clothing. The test subject's oxygen level was again measured for 90 minutes while sitting and wearing the street clothing by two probes placed respectively at the test subject's sternum and calf. The duration of the tests was chosen to be 90 minutes because studies have shown that the human body repeats its metabolic activities patterns approximately every 90 minutes.

In the second group of seven test subjects, each test subject had his oxygen level measured for 90 minutes while sitting and wearing the full body compression suite 30. After 90 minutes in the full body compression suit 30 containing Celliant® fiber, the test subject then changed into one of two conventional full body compression suits. The test subject's body oxygen level was measured for a final duration of 90 minutes while wearing one of the conventional full body compression suits. The two probes were placed respectively at the test subject's sternum and calf and the measurements were made with the test subject sitting down.

A blood profusion monitor is used in all clinical testing presented here to measure the oxygen level of the test subject. The result is called a TcpO₂ reading, which is the transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure in millimeters of mercury per square inch. Transcutaneous oxygen is not the same as the arterial oxygen pressure measured using standard pulse oximeters. Transcutaneous oxygen, TcpO₂, is a local, non-invasive measurement of the amount of oxygen that has diffused from the capillaries, through the epidermis, to an electrode at the measuring site. It provides instant, continuous information about the body's ability to deliver oxygen to the tissue. TcpO₂ is dependent on oxygen uptake in the respiratory system, the oxygen transport/capacity of the blood and the general status of the circulatory system. Any impairment in a person's ability to deliver oxygen to the tissue can be detected immediately because the skin is ranked very low in the body's system of oxygenation priority, and the resulting drop in the TcpO₂ level can be easily monitored.

The average oxygen level readings measured across all 8 test subject by probes placed at sternum and calf show an increase of more than 20% for test subjects wearing the full body compression suit containing Celliant® fiber in comparison to street clothing. The results show that wearing the full body recovery suit containing Celliant® fiber for recovery is superior to wearing regular clothing because increased oxygen levels enhances or expedites recovery.

The average oxygen level readings measured across 7 test subjects by probes placed at the sternum and calf probes show an increase of more than 32% compared to the readings measured when test subjects were wearing one of the two conventional full body compression clothing. It is noted that when test subjects were wearing the conventional full body compression clothing, they had lower oxygen levels than when they were wearing regular clothing. This result highlights the importance of having compression clothing with suitable levels of compression such that the compression is not too high to cause tourniquet effects that actually impedes blood circulation.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the results of clinical testing where Hologenix, LLC measured oxygen levels in the tissue of the test subjects. The test was originally developed to measure blood flow of diabetic patients. The oxygen level data obtained from a test subject wearing full body compression clothing with Celliant® fiber in comparison to wearing conventional athletic clothing over 90 minutes is illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. The data in FIG. 8 is obtained from a probe located near his sternum, whereas the data in FIG. 9 is obtained from a probe located near his ankle.

The oxygen level is similarly measured with a blood profusion monitor and recorded as a TcpO₂ reading. Data is taken for both the subject wearing full body compression clothing with Celliant® fiber, as well as the subject wearing a standard athletic garment, which serves as a control.

As shown, the data indicates that the full body compression clothing with Celliant® fiber amplifies oxygen blood levels by 15-20%. Specifically, the data in FIG. 8 shows that the oxygen blood level increased by approximately 19.7% after 30 minutes, approximately 18.3% after 60 minutes, and approximately 16.7% after 90 minutes. Turning to FIG. 9, where measurements were taken near the ankle region, the data shows that the oxygen blood level increased approximately 35.1% after 30 minutes, approximately 55.6% after 60 minutes, and approximately 29.7% after 90 minutes.

All garments described herein can be worn during either training or recovery, or they can be worn during both training and recovery. As discussed above, garments with a higher level of compression can advantageously be used during training to provide muscle support and to increase oxygen levels within the wearer of the garment.

While many of the garments discussed above have been described as compression garments, the materials described above are not restricted to use in compression garments. In certain implementations, the garments are constructed to provide little if any compression pressure to the wearer. Such looser-fitting clothing can also increase oxygen levels in the wearer.

FIG. 10 shows a recovery shoe 800 with a tongue 810 having an inner surface 820 on which Celliant® fibers are disposed. Substantially the entire inner surface 820 of the tongue 810 of the shoe 800 is lined with a fabric into which stand-alone Celliant® fibers are threaded or woven in a netting configuration. In some embodiments, the fabric into which the Celliant® fibers are threaded or woven is formed of conventional polyester. In certain embodiments, the composite fabric lining the inner surface 820 of the tongue 810 of the recovery shoe 800 contains 50% Celliant® polyester fiber and 50% conventional polyester.

The Celliant® fibers, as discussed above, are capable of absorbing light emitted by a wearer and re-emitting the absorbed light, resulting in increased blood oxygen levels in the wearer. It is believed to be advantageous to include materials containing Celliant® fiber on the inner surface 820 of the tongue 810 of the recovery shoe 800 because the skin on the top of a wearer's foot is thinner than the skin on many other portions of the wearer's foot. Due to the thinner skin on the top portion of the foot, blood vessels and capillaries of the foot are in closer proximity to the Celliant® fiber on the inner surface 820 of the tongue 810 of the recovery shoe 800 than if the Celliant® fiber were to line other portions of the recovery shoe 800. As a result, it is believed that the absorbed energy that is emitted by the Celliant® fiber is better able to reach those blood vessels and capillaries of the user and can thus more effectively increase blood oxygen levels in the wearer.

Still referring to FIG. 10, the recovery shoe 800 includes elastic bands 825 that promote a close comfortable fit of the shoe. In particular, the elastic bands 825 allow the recovery shoe 800 to be sized so that the foot of the wearer, when the shoe 800 is being worn, causes the elastic bands 825 to stretch and thus pulls the inner surface 820 of the tongue 810 snugly against the top portion of the wearer's foot. The tongue 810 of the recovery shoe also has some elasticity due to the structure imparted by the construction (e.g., netting, weaving) of the composite fabric lining. This elasticity of the tongue 810 can further help to pull the Celliant® fiber on the inner surface of the tongue 810 into close contact with the skin on the top portion of the wearer's foot. As a result, the light that is emitted by the foot can be directed more efficiently to pass through the Celliant® material on the tongue 810 of the shoe 800 before the light is absorbed and re-emitted back to the foot in a manner that increases the oxygen levels in the foot of the wearer. Similarly, the re-emitted light is more effectively re-captured by the foot because of the thinner skin in the top portion of the wearer's foot. In this manner, the blood oxygen level in the foot of the wearer can be increased.

The recovery shoe 800 is typically worn after exercising (e.g., after road races, such as marathons) to facilitate recovery of the muscles in the foot. The recovery shoe 800 with the Celliant® fiber containing tongue 810 can be worn to improve blood circulation in the wearer's foot and reduce (e.g., eliminate) fatigue of specific muscle groups in the foot. In addition, wearing the recovery shoe 800 can help to reduce (e.g., eliminate) aches and pains in the foot.

It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the present invention may be formed with one or more of the above-described features. The above aspects and features of the invention may be employed in any suitable combination as the present invention is not limited in this respect. It should also be appreciated that the drawings illustrate various components and features which may be incorporated into various embodiments of the present invention. For simplification, some of the drawings may illustrate more than one optional feature or component. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in the drawings. It should be recognized that the present invention encompasses embodiments which may include only a portion of the components illustrated in any one drawing figure, and/or may also encompass embodiments combining components illustrated in multiple different drawing figures.

It should be understood that the foregoing description of various embodiments of the invention are intended merely to be illustrative thereof and that other embodiments, modifications, and equivalents of the invention are within the scope of the invention recited in the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A garment comprising a fabric having about 41-54 wt % polyester, 27-43 wt % nylon, and about 16-19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer, wherein the fabric is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the garment.

2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the fabric is constructed to absorb light emitted by the wearer of the garment and re-emit the absorbed light to increase oxygen levels in the wearer.

3. The garment claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises a material comprising a polyester carrier material combined with optically active particles, and the material is capable of absorbing light emitted by the wearer and re-emitting the light at different wavelengths.

4. The garment of claim 1, wherein a 1 meter by 1 meter piece of the fabric has a mass of about 210 to 263 grams.

5. The garment of claim 1, wherein the polyurethane-polyurea copolymer is treated with an antimicrobial agent.

6. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is constructed to exert a compression pressure of about 14-22 mmHg to the wearer of the garment.

7-8. (canceled)

9. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is a full body compression suit.

10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the full body compression suit is constructed to substantially entirely cover a torso, arms, and legs of the wearer.

11. The garment of claim 9, wherein the full body recovery suit has a gusset to allow a wearer access into the suit.

12. The garment of claim 9, wherein the full body compression suit is constructed to exert a compression pressure on the wearer of about 14-22 mmHg.

13.-15. (canceled)

16. The garment of claim 1, wherein the fabric has about 54 wt % polyester, about 27 wt % nylon, and about 19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

17. (canceled)

18. The garment of claim 1, wherein the fabric has about 41 wt % polyester, about 43 wt % nylon, and about 16 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

19. (canceled)

20. A one-piece garment, comprising:

a first portion constructed to cover a torso of a wearer;

a first pair of sleeves constructed to cover arms of the wearer; and

a second pair of sleeves constructed to cover legs of the wearer;

wherein the first portion of the garment has a gusset configured to allow the wearer to enter the one-piece garment through the gusset, and the garment comprises a fabric constructed to increase oxygen levels in the wearer of the garment.

21. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the fabric has about 41-54 wt % polyester, about 27-43 wt % nylon, and about 16-19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

22. The one-piece garment of claim 21, wherein the fabric has about 54 wt % polyester, about 27 wt % nylon, and about 19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

23. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the fabric is constructed to absorb light emitted by the wearer of the garment and re-emit the absorbed light to increase oxygen levels in the wearer.

24. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the fabric comprises a material comprising a carrier material combined with optically active particles, and the material is capable of absorbing light emitted by the wearer and re-emitting the light at different wavelengths.

25. (canceled)

26. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the gusset is formed of first and second flaps of material that overlap one another.

27. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the garment is constructed to exert a compression pressure of about 14-22 mmHg to the wearer of the garment.

28. The one-piece garment of claim 20, wherein the garment is a full body compression suit.

29. The one-piece garment of claim 28, wherein the full body compression suit is constructed to substantially entirely cover a torso, arms, and legs of the wearer.

30. (canceled)

31. A method, comprising:

after exercising, wearing, for a period of time, a garment configured to increase oxygen levels in the wearer of the garment.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the period of time is about 90 minutes to about 8 hours.

33. (canceled)

34. The method of claim 31, further comprising sleeping in the garment.

35. (canceled)

36. The method of claim 31, wherein the garment exerts a compression pressure of about 14-22 mmHg on the wearer of the garment.

37-38. (canceled)

39. The method of claim 31, wherein wearing the garment for the period of time increases oxygen levels in the wearer.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the increased oxygen levels facilitate recovery of the wearer from the exercise.

41. The method of claim 31, wherein the garment comprises a fabric having about 41-54 wt % polyester, about 27-43 wt % nylon, and about 16-19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the fabric has about 54 wt % polyester, about 27 wt % nylon, and about 19 wt % polyurethane-polyurea copolymer.

43. (canceled)

44. The method of claim 31, wherein the garment is selected from the group consisting of: a long-sleeve shirt, a short-sleeve shirt, a pair of pants, a pair of shorts, an arm warmer, a calf warmer, a thigh warmer, and a pair of socks.

45. A shoe having a tongue with a fabric disposed on an inner surface of the tongue, wherein the fabric is constructed to increase oxygen levels in a wearer of the shoe.

46. The shoe of claim 45, wherein the fabric comprises a conventional polyester material through which a stand-alone polyester fiber is threaded, wherein the stand-alone polyester fiber is constructed to increase the oxygen levels in the wearer of the shoe.

47. The shoe of claim 46, wherein the fabric includes about 50% of the conventional polyester material and about 50% of the stand-alone polyester fiber.

48. The shoe of claim 45, wherein the fabric is constructed to absorb light emitted by the wearer of the shoe and to re-emit the absorbed light to increase blood oxygen levels in the wearer.

49. The shoe of claim 45, wherein the shoe is constructed to pull the fabric disposed on the inner surface of the tongue of the shoe into direct contact with a top portion of the wearer's foot during use.

50. (canceled)

51. The shoe of claim 45, wherein all surfaces of the shoe other than the inner surface of the tongue are substantially free of the fabric.