PERFORMANCE LAYERING TECHNOLOGY FOR APPAREL, HEADWEAR AND FOOTWEAR

Abstract

Performance layering technology includes apparel, headwear and/or footwear. The performance layering technology of the apparel, headwear and/or footwear has interchangeable color and textural accent panels. These interchangeable color and textural accent panels are configured to conform to various color schemes. In addition, the interchangeable color and textural accent panels can be included behind cutouts or embroidery so color appears through the cutouts or the embroidery. Wherein, the performance layering technology is configured to provide cool and warm relief to athletes.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of priority application, U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 62/724,610 filed Aug. 29, 2018 entitled “Performance Layering Technology”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to performance layering technology for apparel, headwear and/or footwear. More specifically, the performance layering technology provides cool and warm relief to athletes, in addition offers interchangeable color and textural accent panels that conform to various color schemes, including behind embroidery and/or cutout shapes so color appears through the embroidery and/or cutout shapes.

BACKGROUND

Generally speaking, apparel, headwear, and footwear are useful for a variety of purposes, yet each purpose requires a different characteristic in the apparel, headwear, and footwear. For example, most individuals buy a separate hat or cap for each purpose because the hats are not interchangeable. Over time various attempts have been made at constructing hats and caps with more versatility, especially by making components within the structure of the hat interchangeable or at least removable.

Apparel, headwear, and footwear are often used as elements of style, clothing accessories, statements about the person wearing the hat, avenues for marketing, and surfaces for advertising trademarks and service marks. Making the piece more versatile to serve these purposes is useful in the art of clothing today. Accordingly, clothing has received a good bit of attention for its ability to gain attention and to make statements (both literal and non-literal). In this regard, designers and engineers have used clothing, apparel, headwear, footwear as platforms for ingenuity.

Although apparel, headwear, footwear has been the subject of prior updating efforts, a need exists in the art for apparel, headwear, footwear that allows for interchanging portions of the piece for an entirely different look, function, and purpose.

In addition, heating and/or cooling of a user via the apparel, headwear, footwear has also been the subject of prior updating efforts. However, there is clearly a need or desire to improve the effect of heating and/or cooling of a wearer via the via the apparel, headwear, footwear that one wears.

The instant disclosure may be designed to address certain aspects of the needs and/or problems discussed above by providing performance layering technology for apparel, headwear and footwear.

SUMMARY

In accordance with at least select embodiments, the instant disclosure may address at least certain aspects of the above-mentioned needs, issues and/or problems and may provide performance layering technology for apparel, headwear and/or footwear. In general, the performance layering technology of the apparel, headwear and/or footwear has interchangeable color and textural accent panels. These interchangeable color and textural accent panels are configured to conform to various color schemes. In addition, the interchangeable color and textural accent panels can be included behind cutouts or embroidery so color appears through the cutout or embroidery. Wherein, the performance layering technology is configured to provide cool and warm relief to athletes.

In one aspect, the instant disclosure embraces a hat with a bill, a crown and a band.

In select embodiments, the hat may include a cap liner insert configured for added warmth or cooling comfort. The cap liner insert may be configured to cover an inside of the hat for added warmth or cooling comfort. In select embodiments, the cap liner insert may be made of a liner material, including, but not limited to, Resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) ormylar, Spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester, blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool and bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric, and/or treated polyethylene separated by a cotton mesh for strength. In select embodiments, the cap liner insert may be shaped to form to an inside of the hat. In this embodiment, the cap liner insert having a periphery with a rounded portion configured to fit along the band of the hat when positioned inside of the hat, and a cutout portion configured to fit around a front portion of the hat. In addition, the cap liner insert may have a liner attachment means around the periphery configured to attach to the band of the hat on the inside of the hat and around the front panel of the hat on the inside. In select embodiments, the liner attachment means may be, but is not limited to, a hook and loop type fastener. The hook portion or a loop portion of the hook and loop type fastener may be positioned on the periphery of the cap liner insert and the opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion may be positioned on the band of the hat on the inside of the hat and around the front portion of the hat in the inside of the hat.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, the hat may include memory material inside of the bill configured to maintain a curved-up orientation, a flat orientation, and a curved-down orientation. In select embodiments, the memory material in the bill may be, but is not limited to, shape-memory metals, shape-memory alloys, shape-memory polymers, plastic composites, rubber composites, and/or combinations thereof. In select embodiments, the memory material of the bill may be configured to flip up on outer edges. In other select embodiments, the memory material of the bill may be configured to bend on three bendable areas.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include a bill guard configured for protecting the bill and keeping it clean. In select embodiments, the bill guard may be made from, but is not limited to, a plastic material or a rubber material. The bill guard may include a desired color, a desired pattern, a desired molded quality, or combinations thereof. In select embodiments, the bill guard may include a channel configured to fit snuggly around a portion of the bill, wherein the bill guard is configured to slide on the bill and be held on by friction forces.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include a swatch insert configured to be inserted inside the bill through an opening to change the color of the opening. In select embodiments, the swatch insert may be made from, but is not limited to, plastic. In select embodiments, the bill may include a bill cutout positioned by the opening for the swatch insert. Whereby, when the swatch insert is inserted into the opening, a swatch color of the swatch insert may be shown through the cutout for changing the color of the bill cutout.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include a hole positioned in the band of the hat configured for hanging the hat. In select embodiments, the hole may be positioned in the band of the hat. In select embodiments, the hole configured for hanging the hat may be a gromm et. In select embodiments, the grommet may include a carabiner device positioned therethrough configured for hanging the hat. In other select embodiments, the grommet may include a threaded inside configured to receive a threaded plug with a hook portion configured for hanging the hat.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include performance layering technology with interchangeable accent panels that are configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes. The interchangeable accent panels may be configured to be included behind embroidery or cutouts in the crown of the hat so the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery or cutout in the crown of the hat. In select embodiments, the interchangeable accent panels may have, but are not limited to, a triangular shape. These triangular shaped accent panels may have panel attachment means around the periphery of the triangular shape. The attachment means may be configured to attach the interchangeable accent panels to a panel of the hat on the inside of the hat. In select embodiments, the panel attachment means may be hook and loop type fasteners, where the accent panel may include a hook portion or a loop portion around the periphery of the triangular shape, and the panel of the hat may include an opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion. In select embodiments, the interchangeable accent panels may include a different placement marker at each corner of the triangular shape. Likewise, the panel of the hat may include corresponding placement markers configured for positioning the accent panel in a correct orientation behind the panel of the hat. In select embodiments, the interchangeable accent panels may include a panel pocket. The panel pocket may be configured to hold a heating device or a cooling device, whereby the performance layering technology is configured to provide cool or warm relief to a user. As an example, and clearly not limited thereto, the heating device or the cooling device may be a bead pack or a peal pack. In select embodiments, the panel pocket may be on an inner side of the accent panels, where the panel pocket are made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that may be configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe. In select embodiments, the interchangeable accent panels may include a reflecting material on a panel outside facing away from the hat, wherein the reflecting material is a resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar, wherein the interchangeable accent panels may be configured to hold warm temperatures in cold weather and reflect warm temperatures in hot weather. In select embodiments, the cutout includes shapes of various sizes and sequences that contain a mesh, transparent or translucent material covering the cutout shape, wherein the accent panel may be configured to be positioned behind the cutout whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the cutout in the crown of the hat. In other select embodiments, the embroidery may include removed material within or around the embroidery, wherein the accent panel may be configured to be positioned behind the embroidery whereby the various color or pattern schemes may appear through the embroidery in the crown of the hat. One feature of the disclosed the performance layering technology may be that can include the hat being made out of a cooling effect fabric configured to create a cooling effect. The cooling effect fabric may be, but is clearly not limited to, ice and compression wrap material, spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester, blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric, or combinations thereof. In select embodiments, the performance layering technology may also include a firm backing material. The firm backing material may be configured to be positioned behind the accent panel for keeping the shape of the accent panel behind the cutout or embroidery.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include an inside pocket behind four panels of the hat. The inside pocket may be made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that can be configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include a headband attached to the band configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in. In select embodiments, the headband may be made from a material configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in. In other select embodiments, the headband may be configured to be pulled down and cover ears of a user.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure the hat may include various combinations of the embodiments discussed above.

In another aspect, the instant disclosure may include performance layering technology for apparel, footwear or headwear. The performance layering technology for apparel, footwear or headwear may generally include interchangeable accent panels. The interchangeable accent panels may be configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes. The interchangeable accent panels may be configured to be included behind embroidery or cutouts in the apparel, headwear or footwear so the various color or pattern schemes may appear through the embroidery or cutout in the apparel, headwear or footwear.

One feature of the disclosed performance layering technology for apparel, footwear or headwear may be that the interchangeable accent panels can include a panel pocket. The panel pocket can be configured to hold a heating device or a cooling device. Whereby the performance layering technology may be configured to provide cool or warm relief to a user. In select embodiments, the heating device or the cooling device may be a bead pack or a peal pack. In select embodiments, the panel pocket may be on an inner side of the accent panels. In select embodiments, the panel pocket may be made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that can be configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe.

One feature of the disclosed performance layering technology for apparel, footwear or headwear may be that the interchangeable accent panels can include a reflecting material. The reflecting material may be on a panel outside facing away from the apparel, headwear or footwear. In select embodiments, the reflecting material may be a resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar. The interchangeable accent panels may be configured to hold warm temperatures in cold weather and reflect warm temperatures in hot weather.

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the interchangeable accent panels may have a shape with panel attachment means around the periphery of the shape. The attachment means may be configured to attach the interchangeable accent panels to an inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear. In select embodiments, the panel attachment means may be hook and loop type fasteners, where the accent panel includes a hook portion or a loop portion around the periphery of the shape, and the inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear includes an opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion.

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the interchangeable accent panels may include a different placement marker at each corner of the shape, and the inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear including corresponding placement markers configured for positioning the accent panel in a correct orientation behind the embroidery or the cutouts of the apparel, headwear or footwear.

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the cutout may include shapes of various sizes and sequences that contain a mesh, transparent or translucent material covering the cutout shape. As such, the accent panel may be configured to be positioned behind the cutout whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the cutout in the apparel, headwear or footwear.

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the embroidery may include removed material within or around the embroidery. As a result, the accent panel may be configured to be positioned behind the embroidery whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery in the apparel, headwear or footwear;

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the apparel, headwear or footwear may be made out of a cooling effect fabric configured to create a cooling effect. The cooling effect fabric may be, but is not limited to, ice and compression wrap material, spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester, blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric; or combinations thereof;

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the performance layering technology may include a firm backing material. The firm backing material may be configured to be positioned behind the accent panel for keeping the shape of the accent panel behind the cutout or embroidery; or

In select embodiments of the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear, the performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear may include any of the various combinations of features and embodiments discussed above.

The foregoing illustrative summary, as well as other exemplary objectives and/or advantages of the disclosure, and the manner in which the same are accomplished, are further explained within the following detailed description and its accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be better understood by reading the Detailed Description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which like reference numerals denote similar structure and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic top view of a cap liner insert configured for added warmth or cooling comfort on the inside of a cap according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a bill that contains memory material according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure shown schematically in curved up, flat and curved down orientations;

FIG. 3 is a schematic prospective view of a slide on bill guard for protecting the bill and keeping it clean according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a schematic prospective view of a plastic swatch insert that inserts inside the bill through an opening to change the color of the opening according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic rear perspective views of a hat according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure with a grommet in the rear of the cap configured to hang the cap.

FIG. 6A is a schematic rear view of a color accent panel with a panel pocket configured to hold a heating or cooling insert according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIGS. 6B-6D are schematic front view of the color accent panel from FIG. 6A made from special materials to keep heat in or release heat by letting it pass through according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIG. 6E are schematic front views of the color accent panel from FIG. 6A with various patterns and logos according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIGS. 7A-7E are schematic side view of hats with embroidery work that has interchangeable color accent panels behind it for apparel, headwear or footwear, footwear and headwear according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic bottom perspective view of a hat with a headband that is comprised of material that wicks away sweat or keeps the heat in and/or drops to protect ears from the cold according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIGS. 9A-9B are schematic side views of hat with a laser or non laser cut images or shapes with color accent panels behind them changing the color of the image according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure;

FIGS. 10A-10B are schematic side views of hats with cutouts with interchangeable accent panels that contain brands on the color accent panel itself acting as a billboard of sorts according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure; and

FIGS. 11A-11C are schematic side view of hats with a headband designed to pull down and cover ears from a military or baseball cap when weather is cold according to select embodiments of the instant disclosure.

It is to be noted that the drawings presented are intended solely for the purpose of illustration and that they are, therefore, neither desired nor intended to limit the disclosure to any or all of the exact details of construction shown, except insofar as they may be deemed essential to the claimed disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-11, in describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. The present disclosure, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-11, in a possibly preferred embodiment, the present disclosure overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the recognized need for such an apparatus or method by providing performance layering technology 92 for apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168. In general, performance layering technology 93 of apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 may have interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94. These interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94 may be configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes 96. In addition, interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94 can be included behind cutouts 100 or embroidery 98 so color appears through the cutout 100 or embroidery 98. In addition, performance layering technology 92 may be configured to provide cool and warm relief to the user, like to athletes.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 1-6, in one aspect, the present disclosure overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the recognized need for such an apparatus or method by providing of hat 10. Hat 10 may be any headwear 166 and may generally include bill 12, crown 14, and band 16. Hat 10 may be any style of hat, including, but not limited to, any baseball style hats, any military style hats, any dress hats, the like, etc. Bill 12 may extend off of the front portion 30 of hat 10 and may be for shading the eyes of the wearer. Crown 14 may be the top portion of hat 10 that covers the head of the user or at least partially covers the head of the wearer, like in a visor or the like configuration. Band 16 may be the portion that wraps around the head and may be a fixed size, a flexible size, and/or an adjustable size.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 1, in select embodiments, hat 10 may include cap liner insert 18. Cap liner insert 18 may be configured for lining inside 20 of hat 10 or at least a potion of inside 20 of hat 10 for providing added comfort, heat, and/or cooling. As such, cap liner insert 18 may be configured for added warmth or cooling comfort. Cap liner insert 18 may be configured to cover inside 20 of hat 10 for added warmth, cooling, and/or comfort. Cap liner insert 18 may be made from any desired materials configured for added warmth, cooling and/or comfort. In select embodiments, cap liner insert 18 may be made of liner material 22. In select possibly preferred embodiments, liner material 22 may include, but is not limited to, Resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar, Spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester, blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool and bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric, and/or treated polyethylene separated by a cotton mesh for strength. Cap liner insert 18 may be shaped and configured to conform to inside 20 of hat 10. In select embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, cap liner insert 18 may have periphery 24 with rounded portion 26 configured to fit along band 16 of hat 10 when positioned inside of hat 10. In addition, cutout portion 28 may be configured to fit around front portion 30 of hat 10. Cap liner insert 18 may be secured inside of hat 10 by any means. In select embodiments, cap liner insert 18 may have liner attachment means 32 around periphery 24 configured to attach to band 16 of hat 10 on inside 20 of hat 10 via rounded portion 26, and around front portion 30 of hat 10 on inside 20 via cutout portion 28. Liner attachment means 32 may be any device, means, mechanism or materials configured to attach cap liner insert 18 inside of hat 10, including any snaps, buttons, fasteners, adhesives, the like et. In select possibly preferred embodiments, liner attachment means 32 may be, but is not limited to, hook and loop type fastener 34. As such, hook portion 36 or loop portion 38 of hook and loop type fastener 34 may be positioned on periphery 24 of cap liner insert 18 and the opposite of hook portion 36 or loop portion 38 may be positioned on band 16 of hat 10 on inside 20 of hat 10 and around front portion 30 of hat 10 in inside 20 of hat 10.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 2, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include memory material 40. Memory material 40 may be positioned inside or on of bill 12. Memory material 40 may be for allowing bill 12 to be oriented in various configurations including curved-up orientation 42, flat orientation 44, and/or curved-down orientation 46. As such, as shown in FIG. 2, memory material 40 in bill 12 may be configured to maintain bill 12 in curved-up orientation 42, flat orientation 44, and curved-down orientation 46. Memory material 40 of bill 12 may be any material configured for allowing bill 12 to be oriented in various configurations including curved-up orientation 42, flat orientation 44, and/or curved-down orientation 46. In select possibly preferred embodiments, memory material 40 in bill 12 may be, but is not limited to, shape-memory metals, shape-memory alloys, shape-memory polymers, plastic composites, rubber composites, and/or combinations thereof. Memory material 40 in bill 12 may allow bill 12 to be bent or folded at any points or regions on bill 12 including continuously on bill 12. In select possibly preferred embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, memory material 40 of bill 12 may be configured to flip up or bend on outer edges 48. In other select embodiments, memory material 40 of bill 12 may be configured to bend on three bendable areas 50.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 3, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include bill guard 52. Bill guard 52 may be for providing a removable material that can be added to bill 12 to help protect it and/or keep it clean. As such, bill guard 52 may be configured for protecting bill 12 and keeping it clean. Bill guard 52 may be made from any desired materials for protecting bill 12 and keeping bill 12 clean. In select embodiments, bill guard 52 may be made from, but is not limited to, plastic material 54, rubber material 56, or a combination thereof. Bill guard 52 may include desired color 58, desired pattern 60, desired molded quality 62, or combinations thereof. Molded qualities 62 may include, but is not limited to, being embossed, beveled, angled, shaped, or the like, in any way. In select embodiments, bill guard 52 may include channel 64 configured to fit snuggly around portion 66 of bill 12, including but not limited to, as shown in FIG. 2. As a result, slide on bill guard 52 may be configured to slide on bill 12 and be held on by friction forces 68.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 4, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include swatch insert 70. Swatch insert 70 may be for providing a changeable color feature to bill 12. As such, swatch insert 70 may be configured to be inserted inside bill 12 through opening 72 to change swatch color 74 of opening 72. Swatch insert 70 may be made from any desirable material configured to be inserted in and out of opening 72 in bill 12. In select embodiments, swatch insert 70 may be made from, but is not limited to, plastic 76. In select embodiments, bill 12 may also include bill cutout 78. Bill cutout 78 may be any desired, size, shape, logo, pattern, the like etc. in bill 12. Bill cutout 78 may be positioned by opening 72 for swatch insert 70. Whereby, when swatch insert 70 is inserted into opening 72, swatch color 74 of swatch insert 70 may be shown through bill cutout 78 for changing the color of bill cutout 78 in bill 12.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include hole 80. Hole 80 may be for providing a hanging or attachment means on hat 10. Hole 80 may be positioned at any desired location on hat 10. In select possibly preferred embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, hole 80 may be positioned in band 16 of hat 10 at the rear of hat 10. As a result, hole 80 may be configured for hanging hat 10. In select embodiments, hole 80 may be positioned in band 16 of hat 10. In select embodiments, hole 80 may be or may include grommet 82. In select embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5A, grommet 82 of hole 80 may include carabiner device 84, or the like. Carabiner device 84 may be positioned through grommet 82 of hole 80. Carabiner device 84 may thus be configured for hanging hat 10. In other select embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5B, grommet 82 of hole 80 may include threaded inside 86. Threaded inside 86 may be configured to receive any treaded device or plug. In select embodiments, threaded inside 86 may be configured to receive threaded plug 88 with hook portion 90 configured for hanging hat 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-11, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure hat 10 may include performance layering technology 92. Performance layering technology 92 may be for providing interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94, as well as for providing cool and warm relief to the user, like to athletes. These interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94 may be configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes 96. In addition, interchangeable color and textural accent panels 94 can be included behind cutouts 100 or embroidery 98 so color appears through the cutout 100 or embroidery 98.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E, interchangeable accent panels 94 are shown. Interchangeable accent panels 94 may be configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes 96. As such, interchangeable accent panels 94 may be configured to be included behind embroidery 98 and/or or cutouts 100, like in crown 14 of hat 10 so the various color or pattern schemes 96 appear through the embroidery 98 or cutout 100 in crown 14 of hat 10. Interchangeable accent panels 94 may be any desired shape and/or size. In select embodiments, interchangeable accent panels 94 may have triangular shape 102. These triangular shaped accent panels 94, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E may be configured to fit behind panel 108 of hat 10. Interchangeable accent panels 94 may be positioned or attached behind panel 108 of hat 10 by any means, including, but not limited to, any snaps, buttons, fasteners, adhesives, the like etc. In select embodiments, interchangeable accent panels 94 may have panel attachment means 104 around periphery 106 of triangular shape 102. Panel attachment means 104 may be configured to attach interchangeable accent panels 94 to panel 108 of hat 10 on inside 20 of hat 10. In select possibly preferred embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 6E, panel attachment means may be hook and loop type fasteners 110. As such, accent panel 94 may include hook portion 112 or loop portion 114 around periphery 106 of triangular shape 102. Correspondingly, panel 108 of hat 10 may include the opposite of hook portion 112 or loop portion 114 on inside 20 of hat 10.

In select embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 6E and 9A, interchangeable accent panels 94 may include different placement markers 116A, 116B and 116C at each corner 118 of triangular shape 102. Likewise, panel 108 of hat 10 may include corresponding placement markers 120 configured for positioning accent panel 94 in correct orientation 122 behind panel 108 of hat 10. As an example, and clearly not limited thereto, placement marker 116A may be red, placement marker 116B may be yellow and placement marker 116 may be blue. Whereby, panel 108 of hat 10 may include corresponding red, yellow and blue corresponding placement marks 120 on inside 20 of hat 10 for positioning accent panel 94 in correct orientation 122 inside of hat 10.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 6A, in select embodiments, interchangeable accent panels 94 may include panel pocket 124. Panel pocket 124 may be for providing a location for adding and storing a heating device 126 and/or cooling device 128 inside of hat 10. Panel pocket 124 may thus be configured to hold heating device 126 and/or cooling device 128. With the use of heating device 126 and/or cooling device 128 positioned in panel pocket 124 of interchangeable accent panel 94, performance layering technology 92 may be configured to provide cool or warm relief to a user. As an example, and clearly not limited thereto, heating device 126 or cooling device 128 may be bead pack 130 or peal pack 132, as shown in FIG. 6A. Panel pocket 124 may be on inner side 134 of accent panels 94. In select embodiments, panel pocket 124 may be made from treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 with nanopores 138. This treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 with nanopores 138 may be configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by nanopores 138 in treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 allowing treated polyethylene-cotton blended materials 136 to breathe.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 6B, 6C and 6D, in select embodiments, interchangeable accent panels 94 may include reflecting material 140. Reflecting material 140 may be for reflecting heat away from or into inside 20 of hat 10 for providing heating and/or cooling relief to the user. Reflecting material 140 may be on panel outside 142 facing away from hat 10. Reflecting material 140 may be any desired materials configured for reflecting heat away from hat 10 or into inside 20 of hat 10 for providing heating and/or cooling relief to the user. In select possibly preferred embodiments, reflecting material 140 may be a resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar material 144, wherein interchangeable accent panels 94 may be configured to hold warm temperatures in cold weather and reflect warm temperatures in hot weather.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 7-11, in select embodiments, cutout 100 and/or embroidery 98 may include shapes 146 of various sizes and sequences. As examples, and clearly not limited thereto, as shown in FIGS. 7, cutout 100 and/or embroidery 98 may include shapes 146 of college logos, names, or the like. Referring to FIG. 7A, the Duke Blue Devil logo is shown on the side of the hat as shape 146 of cutout 100. As such, interchangeable accent panels 94 may be positioned behind the Duke Blue Devil logo for changing the color of the logo, like from blue, white, black, etc. This is represented in FIGS. 7B, which shows the interchangeable accent panel 94 being positioned inside 20 of hat 10 and then in FIG. 7C where the Duke Blue Devil logo is shown in a different color or shade. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 7D-7E, the ‘D’ logo for Duke is shown on the other side of hat 10 as shape 146 of cutout 100 and/or embroidery 98. This example shows the cutout portions of the logo in one color in FIG. 7D and in another color or shade in FIG. 7E. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, shape 146 of cutout 100 is shown of a dog and cat design. As shown in FIG. 9A, before accent panel 94 is inserted behind the cutout 100, cutout 100 appears as one color or shade. But, as shown in FIG. 9B, once accent panel 94 is positioned behind cutout 100, the color or shade of shape 146 of dog and cat design is different.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-11, in select embodiments, cutouts 100 may contain mesh, transparent or translucent material 148 covering cutout shape 146. Mesh, transparent, or translucent material 148 may be for maintaining structure of hat 10 and/or for providing texture or design to cutout 100. As such, accent panel 94 may be configured to be positioned behind cutout 100 with mesh, transparent or translucent material 148, whereby the various color or pattern schemes 96 of accent panel 94 appear through cutout 100 in crown 14 of hat 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-11, in other select embodiments, embroidery 98 may include removed material 150 within or around embroidery 98, wherein accent panel 94 may be configured to be positioned behind embroidery 98 whereby the various color or pattern schemes 96 may appear through embroidery 98 in crown 14 of hat 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-11, one feature of the disclosed performance layering technology 92 may be that hat 10 can include being made out of cooling effect fabric 152. Cooling effect fabric 152 may be for providing cooling effect 154 to the wearer or user of hat 10, like an athlete. As such, cooling effect fabric 152 may be configured to create cooling effect 154. Cooling effect fabric 152 may be any desired fabric or material configured to create cooling effect 154. In a possibly preferred embodiment, cooling effect fabric 152 may be, but is clearly not limited to, ice and compression wrap material, spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester, blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric, or combinations thereof.

As best shown in FIGS. 7B and 9A, in select embodiments, performance layering technology 92 may also include firm backing material 156. Firm backing material 156 may be for providing some structure behind accent panel 94 inside of hat 10 for maintaining the position of accent panel 94 behind cutout 100 and/or embroidery 98. As such, firm backing material 156 may be configured to be positioned behind accent panel 94 for keeping the shape of accent panel 94 behind cutout 100 and/or embroidery 98.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 8, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include inside pocket 158. Inside pocket 158 may be on inside 20 of hat 10. Inside pocket 158 may be for providing a means for storage and for heating/cooling the wearer by holding heating device 126 and/or cooling device 128. In select embodiments, inside pocket 158 may be positioned behind four panels 160 of hat 10. In select embodiments, inside pocket 158 may be made from treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 with nanopores 138. This treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 with nanopores 138 may be configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by nanopores 138 in treated polyethylene-cotton blended material 136 allowing treated polyethylene-cotton blended materials 136 to breathe.

Referring now specifically to FIGS. 11, in other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include headband 162. Headband 162 may be for providing a material inside hat 10 or just outside of hat 10 over the ears of the user for wicking sweat away and/or for keeping heat in. As shown in FIG. 11, headband 162 may be attached to band 16 on inside 20 of hat 10. Headband 162 may be made from any material configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in. As shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C, in other select embodiments, headband 162 may be configured to be pulled down and cover ears of a user.

In other select embodiments of the instant disclosure, hat 10 may include various combinations of the embodiments discussed above and shown in FIGS. 1-11.

In another aspect, the instant disclosure may include performance layering technology 92 for apparel 164, footwear 168 or headwear 166. Performance layering technology 92 for apparel 164, footwear 168 or headwear 166 may generally include interchangeable accent panels 94. Interchangeable accent panels 94 may be configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes 96. Interchangeable accent panels 94 may be configured to be included behind embroidery 98 or cutouts 100 in apparel 164, headwear 166 or footwear 168 so the various color or pattern schemes 96 may appear through embroidery 98 or cutout 100 in the apparel 164, headwear 166 or footwear 168. Performance layering technology 92 in apparel 164, headwear 166 or footwear 168 may include various combinations of the embodiments discussed above and shown in FIGS. 1-11 for hat 10.

In sum, a feature or advantage of the present disclosure may be the inclusion of interchangeable color accent panels 94 in apparel 164, headwear 166 (like hat 10) that use reflecting material 140, like Resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar 144 facing away from the apparel 164, headwear 166 (like hat 10) and contain panel pocket 124 and/or inside pocket 158 on the inner side made from treated polyethylene/cotton blended material 136 that will allow water vapors to evaporate by nanopores 138 in the plastic material allowing the plastic to breathe like a natural fiber. This can be on apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168.

Another feature of the present disclosure is to make the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 out of a material that will hold warm temperatures in cold weather and release warm temperatures in hot weather.

Another feature of the present disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can contain a heating device 126 and/or cooling device 128 not limited to bead packs 130 or pearl packs 132 that would go into panel pocket 124 of accent panel 94. This can be on apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can include cutout 100 with shapes 146 of various sizes and sequences, for example, (a series of cutouts that show a cutout of an animal or object, etc.) that may or may not contain a mesh, transparent or translucent material 148 covering the cutout shape. Then putting a color panel 94 behind the cutout 100 or embroidery 98 for interchanging the colors. This can be on apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can take embroidery 98 and removing material 150 within or around the embroidery 98 to then put a colored panel 94 behind it changing the color sequence of the embroidery work when ever desired on any piece of apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have sweatband 162 and taping of cap made out of ice and compression wrap material (Spacer fabrics) knits and wovens in polyester or blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric and other fibers that will create cooling effect.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have special liner insert 18 that can cover the whole interior 20 of hat 10 for added warmth or cooling comfort made of Mylar, Spacer fabrics, knits and wovens in polyester or blends with spandex, nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric, treated polyethylene separated by a cotton mesh for strength and other fibers that will create cooling effect.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have memory material 40 in bill 12 of hat 10 so it can be a flat bill, curved bill and curve up on both sides.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have bill guard 52 that protects bill 12 on hat 10 from getting dirty. Bill guard 52 may be plastic/rubber like material that slides on bill 12 of any hat which can have various colors and molded qualities, such as being embossed, beveled, angled or shaped in any way.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have inside pocket 158 behind the four panels 160 of hat 10.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can have firm backing material 156 behind cutout 100 or embroidery 98 that is configured to reinforce softer material so it keeps its shape.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can be made from a treated polyethylene/cotton blended material 136 that will allow water vapors to evaporate by nanopores 138 in the plastic material allowing the plastic to breathe like a natural fiber.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that the apparel 164, headwear 166 and/or footwear 168 can use hole 80, like grommets 82 or other circular, triangular, etc. openings, on hats 10 or the like for clipping carabiner clips 84 to hang from a belt.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have color swatch insert 70 that slides into bill 12 blocking opening 72 in bill 12 giving it interchangeable color options.

Another feature of the instant disclosure is that headwear 166 or hat 10 can have headband 162 designed to pull down and cover ears, like from a military or baseball style cap.

A feature of the present disclosure is its ability to give athletes cool and warm relief in cold or hot conditions, allowing heat to be contained in the cold weather and the cool to be contained in the hot weather, releasing thermal radiation, air, and vapor to pass through. The material cools by letting perspiration evaporate through the material, allowing heat that the body emits as infrared radiation to pass through the textile.

Another feature of the present disclosure is its ability to interchange color and textured accent panels that will deflect heat from the sun rays or absorb the heat from the sun depending on the materials used

Another feature of the present disclosure is its ability to draw more attention to the brand or logo with vibrant accents.

In the specification and/or figures, typical embodiments of the disclosure have been disclosed. The present disclosure is not limited to such exemplary embodiments. The use of the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The figures are schematic representations and so are not necessarily drawn to scale. Unless otherwise noted, specific terms have been used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrative embodiments. Having thus described exemplary embodiments, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein but is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A hat with a bill, a crown and a band, the hat comprising:

memory material inside of the bill configured to maintain the bill in a curved-up orientation, a flat orientation, and a curved-down orientation;

a bill guard configured for protecting the bill and keeping it clean;

a swatch insert configured to be inserted inside the bill through an opening to change a swatch color of the opening;

performance layering technology with interchangeable accent panels that are configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes, wherein the interchangeable accent panels are configured to be included behind embroidery or cutouts in the crown of the hat so the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery or cutouts in the crown of the hat;

an inside pocket behind four panels of the hat;

a headband attached to the band configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in; or

combinations thereof.

2. The hat of claim 1 comprising:

memory material inside of the bill configured to maintain the bill in a curved-up orientation, a flat orientation, and a curved-down orientation;

a bill guard configured for protecting the bill and keeping it clean;

a swatch insert configured to be inserted inside the bill through an opening to change a swatch color of the opening;

performance layering technology with interchangeable accent panels that are configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes, wherein the interchangeable accent panels are configured to be included behind embroidery or cutouts in the crown of the hat so the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery or cutouts in the crown of the hat;

an inside pocket behind four panels of the hat; and

a headband attached to the band configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in.

3. The hat of claim 1 further comprising a cap liner insert configured for added warmth or cooling comfort, wherein the cap liner insert is configured to cover an inside of the hat for added warmth or cooling comfort, wherein the cap liner insert is made of a liner material selected from a group consisting of: Resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar; Spacer fabrics; knits and wovens in polyester; spandex and nylon blends; cotton, wool and bamboo viscose blends; evaporative cooling fabric; treated polyethylene separated by a cotton mesh for strength; or combinations thereof;

wherein said cap liner insert is shaped to form to an inside of the hat, said cap liner insert having a periphery with: a rounded portion configured to fit along the band of the hat when positioned inside of the hat, and a cutout portion configured to fit around a front portion of the hat;

said cap liner insert having a liner attachment means around the periphery configured to attach to the band of the hat on the inside of the hat and around the front portion of the hat on the inside;

wherein the liner attachment means is a hook and loop type fastener, where a hook portion or a loop portion is positioned on the periphery of the cap liner insert and the opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion is positioned on the band of the hat on the inside of the hat and around the front portion of the hat in the inside of the hat.

4. The hat of claim 1, wherein the memory material in the bill is selected from a group consisting of: shape-memory metals; shape-memory alloys; shape-memory polymers; plastic composites; rubber composites; and combinations thereof, wherein the memory material of the bill is configured to flip up on outer edges as well as three bendable areas.

5. The hat of claim 1, wherein the bill guard is made from a plastic material or a rubber material with a desired color, a desired pattern, a desired molded quality, or combinations thereof, wherein the bill guard includes a channel configured to fit snuggly around a portion of the bill, wherein the bill guard is configured to slide on the bill and be held on by friction forces.

6. The hat of claim 1, wherein the swatch insert is made from plastic and the bill including a bill cutout positioned by the opening for the swatch insert, whereby, when the swatch is inserted into the opening, the swatch color of the swatch insert is shown through the bill cutout for changing color of the bill cutout.

7. The hat of claim 1 further comprising a hole positioned in the band of the hat configured for hanging the hat, wherein the hole is a grommet, wherein the grommet including:

a carabiner device positioned therethrough configured for hanging the hat; or

a threaded inside configured to receive a threaded plug with a hook portion configured for hanging the hat.

8. The hat of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable accent panels have a triangular shape with panel attachment means around a periphery of the triangular shape, the panel attachment means is configured to attach the interchangeable accent panels to a panel of the hat on the inside of the hat, where the panel attachment means is hook and loop type fasteners, where the accent panel includes a hook portion or a loop portion around the periphery of the triangular shape, and the panel of the hat includes an opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion.

9. The hat of claim 8, wherein the interchangeable accent panels including a different placement marker at each corner of the triangular shape, and the panel of the hat including corresponding placement markers configured for positioning the accent panel in a correct orientation behind the panel of the hat.

10. The hat of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable accent panels include a panel pocket configured to hold a heating device or a cooling device, whereby the performance layering technology is configured to provide cool or warm relief;

wherein the heating device or the cooling device is a bead pack or a peal pack.

11. The hat of claim 10, wherein the panel pocket is on an inner side of the accent panel, where the panel pocket is made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that is configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe.

12. The hat of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable accent panels include a reflecting material on a panel outside facing away from the hat, wherein the reflecting material is a resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar, wherein the interchangeable accent panels are configured to hold warm temperatures in cold weather and reflect warm temperatures in hot weather.

13. The hat of claim 1, wherein:

the cutouts includes shapes of various sizes and sequences that contains a mesh, transparent or translucent material covering the cutout shape, wherein the accent panel is configured to be positioned behind the cutouts whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the cutout in the crown of the hat; or

the embroidery includes removed material within or around the embroidery, wherein the accent panel is configured to be positioned behind the embroidery whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the removed material of the embroidery in the crown of the hat.

14. The hat of claim 1, wherein the performance layering technology includes the hat made out of a cooling effect fabric configured to create a cooling effect, wherein the cooling effect fabric being selected from a group consisting of: ice and compression wrap material; spacer fabrics;

knits and wovens in polyester; spandex and nylon blend, cotton, wool or bamboo viscose blends, evaporative cooling fabric; or combinations thereof.

15. The hat of claim 1, wherein the performance layering technology also includes a firm backing material configured to be positioned behind the accent panel for keeping shape of the accent panel behind the cutouts or embroidery.

16. The hat of claim 1, wherein the inside pocket is made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that is configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe.

17. The hat of claim 1 wherein the head band is made from a material configured to wick away sweat or keep heat in, and wherein the headband is configured to be pulled down and cover ears of a user.

18. Performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear comprising:

interchangeable accent panels that are configured to conform to various color or pattern schemes, wherein the interchangeable accent panels are configured to be included behind embroidery or cutouts in the apparel, the headwear or the footwear so the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery or cutouts in the apparel, the headwear or the footwear.

19. The performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear of claim 18, wherein:

the interchangeable accent panels include a panel pocket configured to hold a heating device or a cooling device, whereby the performance layering technology is configured to provide cool or warm relief to a user, the heating device or the cooling device is a bead pack or a peal pack, the panel pocket is on an inner side of the interchangeable accent panels, where the panel pocket is made from a treated polyethylene-cotton blended material with nanopores that is configured to allow water vapors to evaporate by the nanopores in the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material allowing the treated polyethylene-cotton blended material to breathe; and

the interchangeable accent panels include a reflecting material on a panel outside facing away from the apparel, headwear or footwear, wherein the reflecting material is a resin Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or mylar, wherein the interchangeable accent panels are configured to hold warm temperatures in cold weather and reflect warm temperatures in hot weather.

20. The performance layering technology for apparel, headwear or footwear of claim 19, wherein:

the interchangeable accent panels have a shape with panel attachment means around the periphery of the shape, the attachment means are configured to attach the interchangeable accent panels to an inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear, where the panel attachment means are hook and loop type fasteners, where the accent panel includes a hook portion or a loop portion around the periphery of the shape, and the inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear includes an opposite of the hook portion or the loop portion;

the interchangeable accent panels including a different placement marker at each corner of the shape, and the inside of the apparel, headwear or footwear including corresponding placement markers configured for positioning the accent panel in a correct orientation behind the embroidery or the cutouts of the apparel, headwear or footwear;

wherein: the cutout includes shapes of various sizes and sequences that contains a mesh, transparent or translucent material covering the cutout shape, wherein the accent panel is configured to be positioned behind the cutout whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the cutout in the apparel, headwear or footwear; or the embroidery includes removed material within or around the embroidery, wherein the accent panel is configured to be positioned behind the embroidery whereby the various color or pattern schemes appear through the embroidery in the apparel, headwear or footwear;

the apparel, headwear or footwear is made out of a cooling effect fabric configured to create a cooling effect, wherein the cooling effect fabric being selected from the group consisting of: ice and compression wrap material; spacer fabrics; knits and wovens in polyester; blends with spandex and nylon, blends with cotton, wool or bamboo viscose, evaporative cooling fabric; or combinations thereof;

the performance layering technology includes a firm backing material configured to be positionedbehind the accent panel for keeping the shape of the accent panel behind the cutout or embroidery; or

combinations thereof.