Article of clothing with waist assembly

An article of clothing is provided, the article comprising a garment having upper and lower portions, the upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, the lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, the waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, the garment comprising a front side and a rear side; a waist assembly situated on the inner and rear sides of the garment; and at least two end fasteners attached to the waist assembly.

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Description
RELATED APPLICATION:

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/405,188 filed on Mar. 16, 2009 entitled “Lower Body Garment Having a Secure Waist Assembly” and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/395,169 filed on Dec. 8, 2011 entitled “Article of Clothing” which is a is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/333.871 filed on Mar. 16, 2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. D652,199.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to garments for the lower body and, more particularly, such garments having a waist assembly configured for a secure and comfortable fit.

2. Description of the Related Art

The fit of a garment around the waist of the wearer is an important design consideration. This is particularly true for garments used in sports. A proper fit can contribute to an athlete's performance, whereas an improper fit can hamper performance.

Certain activities such as combat sports such as mixed martial arts (MMA) and water sports such as surfing can be particularly challenging for the design of the garment having a secure waist fit. In situations encountered while participating in such activities, tugging, water currents, or other forces tend to pull the garment downward, risking inadvertent removal of the garment or otherwise challenge a secure waist fit. Moreover, exposure to water or perspiration can adversely influence the waist fit, exacerbating the risk.

Current approaches for a secure waist fit typically require substantial, bulky material around the waist, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Thus, the wearer must often time sacrifice a secure waist fit for comfort and better looking fit or sacrifices the comfort and look for a secure waist fit.

It should be appreciated that there remains a need for a garment that addresses these concerns. The present invention fulfills this need and others.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the invention discloses a garment having an outer shell and a waist assembly. The outer shell includes a waistband that defines a waist opening. The waist assembly is attached to the interior side of the waistband at a prescribed location on the waist assembly with the remaining portions of the waist assembly being free of the outer shell. The waist assembly includes an intermediate section, end sections, and end fasteners, which cooperate to promote a secure and comfortable waist fit. When secured in place, the waist assembly wraps snuggly against the waist of the wearer.

In another embodiment of the invention, the waist assembly is coupled to the inner side of the waistband of the outer shell. The waist assembly includes an intermediate section disposed in an intermediate region of the waist assembly positioned to be proximate to the backside of the wearer's when worn, a grip portion secured to the intermediate section and positioned to contact the wearer, and end fasteners coupled to opposing sides of the intermediate section, the end fasteners configured to attach to each other in the front side of the wearer inside the waist band, to secure the waist assembly around the waist of the wearer.

In yet another embodiment, the attachment between the outer shell and the waist assembly can be confined to an upper region of the intermediate portion, proximate to the upper edge thereof. In such configurations, stitching can be used that extends substantially the entire length of the intermediate section. Alternatively, attachment means can be interspersed along the length of the intermediate section, proximate to the upper edge.

In still another embodiment, the intermediate section has sufficient length to extend across a substantial portion of the wearer's back along the waist area and preferably between about 60 degrees to 300 degrees and, more preferably at least 160 degrees about the wearer. In still yet another embodiment, the length of the intermediate section extends at least about 180 degrees about the wearer.

In a further embodiment, the waist assembly includes an intermediate section formed of stretch material, such as two-way stretch material, and two end sections formed of non-stretch material disposed on opposing side ends of the intermediate section. The intermediate section is positioned proximate to the backside of the wearer, with the end sections proximate to the sides of the wearer. End fasteners, such as tie strings, extend from each of the end sections and secure to each other in front of the wearer.

In another further embodiment, grip portions are disposed on the intermediate section to contact the wearer. The grip portion can be formed of material such as thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or silicone material. In still a further embodiment, the grip portion is formed by silicone material printed onto the intermediate section.

In yet a further embodiment, a garment worn on the lower body is provided having an outer shell having a waistband and defining a pair of leg openings and an interior pocket disposed on an interior side the outer shell proximate to one of the leg openings of the outer shell such that the interior pocket can be accessed through the leg opening, while worn.

In still a further embodiment, an opening to the interior pocket spaced apart from a bottom edge of the outer shell and includes a flap that extends over the pocket opening.

In still yet a further embodiment, the pocket is disposed on a front half of the outer shell. In another embodiment, the pocket can be disposed on a rear half of the outer shell.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides for an article of clothing comprising: a garment having upper and lower portions, said upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, and the lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, and the waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, the garment comprising a front side and a rear side; a waist assembly comprising an elongated member having a top, a bottom, a front and a back sides, the top portion of the elongated member is attached to the inner side of the waistband and on the rear side of the garment wherein the attachment of the top portion of the elongated member inhibits a longitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband, at least one portion of the bottom side of the elongated member is secured to the inner side of the waistband and on the rear side of the garment wherein the securement of at least a portion of the bottom side of the elongated member inhibits a latitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband, at least a portion of bottom side of the elongated member is free from attachment to the garment, and the elongated material extends across a length of the inner side of the waistband and the rear side of the garment, the front side of the elongated material is designed to contact a backside of a wearer; and at least two end fasteners attached to opposing ends of the elongated member, and the fasteners designed to secure the waist assembly around the wearer. For purposes of this invention, the terms “intermediate section” and “elongated member” may be the same. In some but not all embodiments, the term “outer shell” may also be the same as the term “garment”.

In yet another embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least one grip portion attached to a portion of the front side of the elongated member, and the grip portion is designed to assist in preventing movement of the waist assembly.

In still another embodiment, each of the two end fasteners comprises at least two draw strings, each of the draw string being attached to opposing ends of the elongated member.

In still yet another embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises a foldable flap having opposing ends, at least one end of the flap is attached to an inner side of the waistband and a front side of the garment, and the flap is designed to fold over an upper edge of the waistband and be attached to a portion of said outer side of said garment during use of said garment. In another embodiment, the one side of the flap comprises space for advertising.

In a further embodiment, the grip portion is constructed of a material selected from a group comprising of rubber, plastic, silicone, thermoplastic rubber and mixtures thereof.

In another further embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least two apertures situated on the waistband at the front side of said garment, the draw strings are of a length to allow each of the draw strings to pass through the apertures on the waistband and are designed to allow a wearer to tie the draw strings to tighten the garment around the wearer's waist.

In yet a further embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least two end fastener covers, at least a portion of the end fastener covers are secured to opposing ends of the waist assembly, at least one of the end fastener are attached to at least a portion of the inner side of the waistband, at least a portion of the end fasteners are situated within at least a portion of the end fastener covers.

In still a further embodiment, at least one set of vertical stitching is applied to a portion of the elongated member to thereby restrict latitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband.

In still yet a further embodiment, the elongated member comprised at least one extended portion, and the extended portion is attached to an interior side of the garment.

In another embodiment, at least one of the end fasteners is attached to at least a portion of the end fastener covers.

In still another embodiment, at least a portion of the end fastener covers is attached to at least a portion of the inner side of the waistband.

In yet another embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises a patch of material situated within an interior of and at the front side of the garment, and the patch designed to provide frontal support for the wearer.

In still yet another embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least one pocket situated on an interior of the garment.

In a further embodiment, the present invention provides for an article of clothing comprising: a garment having upper and lower portions, the upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, the lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, the waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, the garment comprising a front side and a rear side; a waist assembly comprising an elongated member having a top, a bottom, a front and a back sides, the top portion of the elongated member is attached to the inner side of the waistband and on the rear side of the garment wherein the attachment of the top portion of the elongated member inhibits a longitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband, at least one portion of the bottom side of the elongated member is secured to the inner side of the waistband and on the rear side of said garment wherein the securement of at least a portion of the bottom side of said elongated member inhibits a latitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband, at least a portion of bottom side of the elongated member is free from attachment to the garment, the elongated material extends across a length of the inner side of the waistband and the rear side of the garment, the front side of the elongated material is designed to contact a backside of a wearer; and at least one grip portion attached to a portion of the front side of the elongated member, the grip portion designed to assist in preventing movement of the waist assembly.

In another further embodiment, the present invention relates to an article of clothing comprising a garment having upper and lower portions, the upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, the lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, the waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, and the garment comprising a front side and a rear side; and an extended portion protruding from the rear side of the garment, and the extended portion providing a space for advertisement.

In yet another further embodiment, the present invention relates to an article of clothing comprising a garment having upper and lower portions, the upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, the lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, the waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side; and a foldable flap having opposing ends, at least one end of the flap is attached to an inner side of the waistband or garment, and at a front side of the garment, the flap is designed to fold over an upper edge of the waistband and be attached to a portion of the outer side of the garment during use of the garment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention. These drawings are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the present invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a garment in accordance with the present invention, depicting a waist assembly attached to an interior side of a waistband of an outer shell.

FIG. 2 is a rear cut-away view of depicting the waist assembly of the garment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the waist of the garment of FIG. 1, taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2, depicting the waistband and the waist assembly.

FIG. 4 is rear perspective view of the garment of FIG. 1, depicting a fastener cover and holes in the waistband for receiving tie strings.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the athletic shorts of FIG. 1, depicting an interior pocket in phantom located proximate to the left leg opening of the garment.

FIG. 6 is an isolated, cut-away view of the interior pocket of FIG. 5, from an interior side of the leg.

FIG. 7a, b and c are side views of one embodiment of the assembly of waist assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 8a and b are perspective front and rear views of the waistband showing the vertical stitching of the waist assembly to the waistband.

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the extended portion, the frontal patch and foldable flap of the article of clothing of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the frontal patch attached to the flap of the garment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the waist assembly with an extended portion attached to the elongated member and the extended portion is attached to the interior of the garment preventing or limiting movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband.

Among those benefits and improvements that have been disclosed, other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, some features may be exaggerated to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown a garment, i.e., athletic shorts 10, having an outer shell 12 and a waist assembly 14. The outer shell 12 includes a waistband 16 that defines a waist opening 18. The waist assembly is attached to the interior side of the waistband at a prescribed location on the waist assembly with the remaining portions of the waist assembly being free of the outer shell. The waist assembly includes an intermediate section 20, end sections 22, and end fasteners 24, which cooperate to promote a secure and comfortable waist fit. When secured in place, the waist assembly wraps snuggly against the waist of the wearer.

In use, the wearer secures the end fasteners 24 together such that the end portions hold intermediate section snug against wearer. The waist assembly 14 further includes grip portions 26 secured to the intermediate section 20. The grip portions are configured to maintain the shorts in place. In this manner, the shorts maintain a secure fit in across many situations, even when exposed to perspiration or water. As a result, the shorts are particularly effective for combat sports such as martial arts, wrestling, and mixed martial arts, as well as, for water sports such as surfing.

With reference to FIG. 2, the waist assembly 14 includes two grip portions 26 disposed on the intermediate section 20. The grip portions are positioned to contact the wearer on opposing sides of the wearer's spine. In the exemplary embodiment, the grip portions are permanently attached via sonic welding; nonetheless, other means of attachment can be used such as printing, sewing, heat transfer, adhesives, and so on. The grip portions are formed of material having a measure of tackiness, such as thermoplastic rubber (TPR) material to aid in maintaining as secure waist fit. In other embodiments, silicone material such as silicone pads can be used and can be applied via printing onto the intermediate section or other attachment methods. Other materials providing sufficient tackiness can be used, such as rubber or manmade synthetic material.

The grip portions 26 are sufficiently sized to provide a substantial surface area for contact with the wearer. The grip portions have a generally oval shape having a longitudinal axis aligned with the upper edge of the waist assembly. Each grip portion has a length between about 3 inches and about 10 inches, and in the exemplary embodiment of about 7 inches. The width of each grip portion is between about 1 inch and 5 inches, and the exemplary embodiment has a width of about 3 inches.

In other embodiment, grip portions can be provided in other shapes, sizes, and numbers without departing from the invention, For example, the grip portions can be configured as a plurality of cross-hatched lines or aligned geometric shapes of grip material spaced along the intermediate section of waist assembly. Alternatively, a single grip portion of a prescribed shape and size can be used.

The intermediate section 20 of the waist assembly 12 is formed of stretch material such as stretch fabric. In the exemplary embodiment, it is formed of two layers of four-way stretch fabric such as spandex. Alternatively, the intermediate section can be formed of two-way stretch material, used in single or multiple layers. In such embodiments, the two-way stretch material can be oriented to stretch laterally around with waist. In use, the intermediate section is stretched snuggly against the wearer, facilitating a comfortable and secure waist fit. As a result, the grip portions are held against the wearer, further ensuring a secure fit. In other embodiments, non-stretch fabric, whether single or multiple layers, can be used.

With reference now to FIG. 3, the upper edge 28 of the intermediate section 20 is preferably aligned with or slightly below the upper edge 30 of the waistband 16 of the outer shell. The intermediate section is coupled to the waistband proximate to the upper edge via stitching 32. The stitching extends substantially the entirely length of the intermediate section. In other embodiments, the stitching can be interspersed across the length of the intermediate section, or positioned in one or more prescribed locations. The lower edge 48 of the waist assembly 12 is not attached to the outer shell. Thus, when the waist assembly is secured in place, it is free to conform against the waist of the wearer.

Alternatively, other means of attaching the intermediate section to the waistband can be used, such as, hook-and-loop material, buttons, snaps, zippers, tie strings, and so on. In addition, intervening material can be used to couple the intermediate section to the waistband. For example, a section of non-stretch material can be used between the waistband and the intermediate section, to which the intermediate section and the waistband are attached.

With reference again to FIG. 2, the intermediate section 20 has a width between about 3 inches and about 10 inches and, in the exemplary embodiment, the width is about 5 inches. The intermediate section, as shown, is generally rectangular with a constant width profile, however a variable width can be used in other embodiments.

The intermediate section 20 has sufficient length to extend across a substantial portion of the wearer's back along the waist area and preferably between about 60 degrees to 300 degrees and, more preferably at least 160 degrees about the wearer. In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the intermediate section 20 is a function of the waist circumference of the shorts, extending about 180 degrees about the wearer.

The end sections 22 are coupled to opposing ends of the intermediate section 20. The end sections are formed of non-stretch material as compared to the intermediate section. In the exemplary embodiment, the end sections are formed a polyester fabric, such as, nylon webbing. However, other materials and configurations can be used, such as cotton, polyester, rayon, bamboo, hemp, and others. The end sections prevent the four-way stretch material from bunching by creating an equal pulling force when tightened. The end sections 22 have the same width as the intermediate section to which they are attached via stitching.

As mentioned above, the intermediate section 20 is sewn to the waistband 16 of the outer shell 12. The end sections are not directly attached to the waistband 16. Instead, the end sections are free to provide a smooth stretch of the intermediate section by securing the end fasteners together.

Each end fastener 24 extends from a corresponding end section 22. The end fasteners are configured as tie strings having sufficient length so that they can be tied to each other in the front side of the wearer proximate to the fly opening 34. In other embodiments, other configurations of fasteners can be used to stretch the intermediate section so that it is secure against the wearer. For example, the end fasteners can be configured as straps extending from the end section in which the straps having hook-and-loop material, clasps, buttons, or other means of attaching to each other. The tie strings can be of varying sizes and materials, such as cotton, polyester, rayon, bamboo, hemp, and others.

With now to reference to FIG. 4, a plurality of holes 36 are defined on an interior side of the shorts proximate to the upper edge thereof, proximate to the fly opening 34. The holes positioned to be threaded with the end fasteners 24 of the waist assembly 14. Selected holes are cooperatively defined by the waistband and a fly panel 38 disposed behind the fly opening.

The athletic shorts 10 further include a fastener cover 40 for protecting the end fasteners of the waist assembly 14. The cover is attached to an interior side of the shorts proximate to an upper edge thereof via stitching. In the exemplary embodiment, the cover is formed of an elastomeric material, such as neoprene, disposed between two outer layers or one layer formed of fiber material such as spandex. The fastener is configured to fold over the upper edge of the waistband to cooperate with a fly closure 42 disposed on the front side to secure the cover in place.

More particularly, the fastener cover 40 includes a complementary side of hook-and-loop material 44 to mate with a corresponding portion on the fly closure 42. In use, the wearer ties the strings 24 together then folds the cover over the knot and secures fastener to the fly closure, over the upper edge of the waistband. Thus, the cover not only aids in keeping the knot tied but also provides a measure of comfort for the wearer. This is particularly effective for surfing shorts, since surfers tend to lie on a surfboard for extended periods.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, the fly panel 38 is disposed over an interior side of the fly opening 34. In the exemplary embodiment, the fly panel is formed of two layers of four-way stretch fabric and is attached to the interior side of the outer shell extending across the fly opening. The fly panel is secured in place via stitching. In other embodiments, various other materials and securement methods can be used for the fly panel, or it can be excluded entirely.

In the present example, the fly closure 42 is formed of hook-and-loop material disposed on opposing sides of the fly opening substantially the entire length of the opening. In other embodiments, various other materials and securement methods can be used for the closing the fly opening without departing from the invention. Alternatively, shorts in accordance with the invention can exclude a fly opening entirely.

The outer shell 12 is formed of multiple components. The waistband 16 is formed of a non-stretch material such as polyester. The outer shell further includes front panels 46 disposed below the waistband formed of stretch fabric. In the exemplary embodiment, the elastic material is formed of stretch fabric, such as spandex; however, other materials and construction providing elastic properties can be used. In other embodiments, the material and configuration of the outer shell can be selected to suit a particular application such as surfing, combat sports, cross training, and so on. For example, the garment in accordance with the invention can be configured a particular type of garment such as surfing shorts, MMA shorts, general athletic shorts, training shorts, track shorts, training sweat pants, track pants, workout pants, and to name a few.

With reference now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the shorts 10 further include an interior pocket 50 disposed on an interior side of the outer shell proximate to one or more of the leg openings of the outer shell 12. More particularly, the pocket is sewn onto the interior side of the front leg panel 46 of the outer shell. The pocket includes a flap 52 that extends over a pocket opening 54, which is spaced apart from the bottom edge 56. In other embodiments, such as surf shorts, the pocket can be located on the interior side of the back leg panel.

In the exemplary embodiment, the pocket 50 is formed of stretch material (e.g., four-way stretch material such as spandex). The pocket includes a first piece of stretch material folded along a bottom fold 58, forming a front portion 60 and a back panel (not shown), and further includes a second piece of stretch material, forming the pocket flap 52. The side edges 62 of the pocket flap 62 are sewn in place to aid in securing the items within the pocket. Alternatively, other types of enclosures for internal pockets may be used, including hook and loop, buttons, zippers, snaps and so on. Stitch lines secure the pocket to the outer shell 12.

In use, the wearer can easily access the pocket through the leg opening 70. The pocket is sized to secure a mouth guard, such as those used in combat sports. In one example, the pocket is approximately 5 inches by 6 inches. The location of the pocket on an interior side proximate to the leg opening is advantageous in that the pocket is free of externally exposed portions and that the user need not loosen or alter the waistband to gain access to the internal pocket.

It should be appreciated from the foregoing that the present invention provides a garment having an outer shell 12 and a waist assembly 14. The outer shell includes a waistband that defines a waist opening. The waist assembly is attached to the interior side of the waistband at a prescribed location on the waist assembly with the remaining portions of the waist assembly being free of the outer shell. The waist assembly includes an intermediate section, end sections, and end fasteners, which cooperate to promote a secure and comfortable waist fit. When secured in place, the waist assembly wraps snuggly against the waist of the wearer.

Referring now to FIGS. 7a, b and c, the waist assembly 14 comprises an elongated member 20, attached to end fastener covers 82 and end fasteners 24. FIG. 7a shows the components disassembled. FIG. 7b show the rear view of the assembled waist assembly wherein one end of the end fasteners 24 is attached to one end of the elongated member 20 and the end fastener cover surrounds a portion of the end fasteners. FIG. 7c shows a front view of the waist assembly 14 and there is stitching 80 on the end fastener covers and an x-stitch 81 securing the end fastener 24 to the end fastener covers 82.

FIG. 8a shows a front view of the shorts 12 showing the waist assembly 14 being attached to the waistband with a plurality of vertical stitches 83. The vertical stitches prevent or limit latitudinal movement of the waist assembly relative to the waistband. FIG. 8b shows the rear view of FIG. 8a showing the vertical stitches 83 on the outside of the waistband of the garment.

FIG. 9 shows a rear view of the shorts 12 with the foldable flap 40, the frontal patch 90 and the extended portion 100 protruding from the top portion of the rear side of the waistband and the extended portion 100 has space 101 for advertising.

FIG. 10 illustrates the foldable flap 40 attached to the frontal patch 90. A portion of the flap 40 and/or patch 90 is attached to a portion of the front side of the waistband or the front side of the garment. The flap 40 is designed to fold over an upper edge of the waistband and be attached to a portion of the outer side of the garment during use of the garment.

FIG. 11 shows the waist assembly 14 with the extended portion 29 which is designed to be attached to an interior of the garment to limit or prevent latitudinal movement of the waist assembly 14 relative to the waistband.

Numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the attendant claims attached hereto, this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An article of clothing comprising:

a garment having upper and lower portions, said upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, said lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, said waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, said garment comprising a front side and a rear side;
a waist assembly comprising an elongated member having a top, a bottom, a front and a back sides, said top portion of said elongated member is attached to said inner side of said waistband and on said rear side of said garment wherein said attachment of said top portion of said elongated member inhibits a longitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband, at least one portion of said bottom side of said elongated member is secured to said inner side of said waistband and on said rear side of said garment wherein said securement of at least a portion of said bottom side of said elongated member inhibits a latitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband, at least a portion of bottom side of said elongated member is free from attachment to said garment, said elongated material extends across a length of said inner side of said waistband and said rear side of said garment, said front side of said elongated material is designed to contact a backside of a wearer; and
at least two end fasteners attached to opposing ends of said elongated member, said fasteners designed to secure said waist assembly around the wearer.

2. The article of claim 1 further comprising at least one grip portion attached to a portion of said front side of said elongated member, said grip portion designed to assist in preventing movement of said waist assembly.

3. The article of claim 1 wherein each of the two end fasteners comprises at least two draw strings, each of said draw strings being attached to opposing ends of said elongated member.

4. The article of claim 1 further comprising a foldable flap, said flap having opposing ends, at least one end of said flap being attached to an inner side of said waistband and a front side of said garment, said flap is designed to fold over an upper edge of said waistband and be attached to a portion of said outer side of said garment during use of said garment.

5. The article of claim 2 wherein said grip portion is constructed of a material selected from a group comprising of rubber, plastic, silicone, thermoplastic rubber and mixtures thereof.

6. The article of claim 3 further comprising at least two apertures situated on said waistband at said front side of said garment, said draw strings are of a length to allow each of said draw strings to pass through said apertures on said waistband and are designed to allow a wearer to tie said draw strings to tighten said garment around the wearer's waist.

7. The article of claim 1 at least two end fastener covers, at least a portion of said end fastener covers are secured to opposing ends of said waist assembly, at least one of said end fastener are attached to at least a portion of said inner side of said waistband, at least a portion of said end fasteners are situated within at least a portion of said end fastener covers.

8. The article of claim 1 wherein at least one set of vertical stitching is applied to a portion of said elongated member to thereby restrict latitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband.

9. The article of claim 1 wherein said elongated member comprised at least one extended portion, said extended portion is attached to an interior side of said garment.

10. The article of claim 7 wherein at least one of said end fasteners is attached to at least a portion of said end fastener covers.

11. The article of claim 10 wherein said at least a portion of said end fastener covers are attached to at least a portion of said inner side of said waistband.

12. The article of claim 1 further comprising a patch of material situated within an interior of and at said front side of said garment, said patch designed to provide frontal support for the wearer.

13. The article of claim 1 further comprising at least one pocket situated on an interior of said garment.

14. An article of clothing comprising:

a garment having upper and lower portions, said upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, said lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, said waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, said garment comprising a front side and a rear side;
a waist assembly comprising an elongated member having a top, a bottom, a front and a back sides, said top portion of said elongated member is attached to said inner side of said waistband and on said rear side of said garment wherein said attachment of said top portion of said elongated member inhibits a longitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband, at least one portion of said bottom side of said elongated member is secured to said inner side of said waistband and on said rear side of said garment wherein said securement of at least a portion of said bottom side of said elongated member inhibits a latitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband, at least a portion of bottom side of said elongated member is free from attachment to said garment, said elongated material extends across a length of said inner side of said waistband and said rear side of said garment, said front side of said elongated material is designed to contact a backside of a wearer; and
at least one grip portion attached to a portion of said front side of said elongated member, said grip portion designed to assist in preventing movement of said waist assembly.

16. The article of claim 15 wherein said grip portion is constructed of a material selected from a group comprising of rubber, plastic, silicone, thermoplastic rubber and mixtures thereof.

17. The article of claim 15 wherein said elongated member comprised at least one extended portion, said extended portion is attached to an interior side of said rear side of said garment.

18. The article of claim 15 wherein at least one set of vertical stitching is applied to a portion of said elongated member to thereby restrict latitudinal movement of said waist assembly relative to said waistband.

19. An article of clothing comprising a garment having upper and lower portions, said upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, said lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, said waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side, said garment comprising a front side and a rear side; and an extended portion protruding from said rear side of said garment, said extended portion providing a space for advertisement.

20. An article of clothing comprising a garment having upper and lower portions, said upper portion comprising at least one opening defining a waistband, said lower portion comprising at least two openings defining two leg openings, said waistband comprising an inner side and an outer side; and a foldable flap having opposing ends, at least one end of said flap being attached to an inner side of said waistband and at a front side of said garment, said flap is designed to fold over an upper edge of said waistband and be attached to a portion of said outer side of said garment during use of said garment.

Patent History
Publication number: 20120210495
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 18, 2012
Publication Date: Aug 23, 2012
Inventor: Ron Wilson (Solana Beach, CA)
Application Number: 13/374,843
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Waistbands (2/236)
International Classification: A41F 9/00 (20060101);