MULTI-FUNCTIONAL TUBULAR GARMENT WITH INTERNAL COMPONENTS

Abstract

A tubular garment or scarf that is constructed as an elongated tubular body length, and having internal components with corresponding apertures, a medial aperture and two distal open ends that enable a user to exercise multiple optional configurations and uses while maintaining aesthetic shape and appeal. The tubular garment can be used to keep multiple parts of the human body warm, to support a person's head for sleeping, to secure possessions for storage, and to protect the hair of the user. In different usages, the tubular garment can be worn as sleeves, a hood, mittens, pockets, a hair wrap, a neck pillow, an infinity scarf, or a traditional scarf.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.C. § 119

The present application for Patent claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/791,714 entitled “Multifunctional Tubular Garment with Openings and Internal Components” filed Jan. 11, 2019, and expressly incorporated by reference herein.

INTRODUCTION

Field

The present disclosure relates generally to apparel or garments, and more specifically to a multi-functional tubular garment having internal components.

BACKGROUND

Tubular type garments such as scarves are commonly known in the art as having both aesthetic appeal and utilitarian value. Concerning utilitarian value, apart from providing protection and warmth to a user, scarves have also been known to include added components such as hoods, pockets, mittens, etc., that add various other functions to the scarf. Typically, these added components are located on the outer surfaces of the scarf. The addition of such external components, however, often diminishes the aesthetic appeal of the scarf. Known solutions for adding utility while also trying to maintain aesthetic appeal include making various utilitarian components detachable, but this is typically inconvenient and cumbersome by requiring the user to attach and detach the components, and also changes the aesthetic due to the components being externally attached. Other known garments include a combination of a hood and a scarf garment, but this also changes the aesthetic of the scarf such that it becomes another type of garment from an aesthetic perspective. Accordingly, there is need for tubular garments with added functionality that also maintain aesthetic appeal by avoiding external or detachable components.

SUMMARY

According to certain aspects, an elongated tubular garment is disclosed. The garment includes at least one elongated piece of material configured in a tube shape having an outer surface, an interior surface, and an interior volume defined by the interior surface. The garment also includes at least one open end at at least one distal portion along a longitudinal axis of the at least one elongated piece of material with respect to a median portion of the piece of material. Furthermore, the garment includes at least one internal compartment disposed within at least a portion of the interior volume and having at least one opening configured to allow access to the compartment. Moreover, the garment includes at least one aperture in the elongated piece of material, the at least one aperture positioned relative to the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment to provide access to the at least one internal compartment through the at least one opening and the at least one aperture.

In other aspects, the at least one compartment is configured in one of a mitten or glove shape. Another aspect includes the least one compartment having at least one further opening disposed in a portion of the at least one compartment that is separate from the at least one opening, wherein the at least one further opening configured to be selectively opened to allow at least a second access to the at least one compartment. The garment may also include a closure mechanism configured to allow closure of the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment. In another aspect, the garment may be configured to have the at least one internal compartment detachable, wherein the at least one internal compartment is detachably affixed to a portion of the interior surface with a fastening mechanism.

In yet other aspect, the tubular garment may include a medial aperture in the outer surface located in a medial region of the tubular garment with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the medial aperture configured to allow access to the inner surface and volume of the tubular garment. Additionally, the medial aperture is sized to allow at least a portion of medial region to be used as a hood.

In still other aspects, a separate lining material affixed to at least a portion of the interior surface may be included with the garment. The separate lining material may be configured to have a coefficient of friction that is lower than at least material used for constructing the outer surface and the at least one compartment.

In other aspects, the garment may include padding material disposed inside a least a portion of the interior surface, wherein the padding material has a semi-rigid structure configured to provide shape for the garment.

In still further aspects, the at least one compartment may configured in a mitten shape having a thumb portion and a finger portion, wherein at least one of the thumb portion and the finger portion may respectively include a selectively openable thumb aperture or finger aperture.

In yet other aspects, the garment may be constructed of one or more materials comprising the at least one compartment and the outer surface having coefficients of friction such that when one end of garment is placed into the other end of the garment, the combined coefficient of friction is of a value that allows the one end to stay in the other end through a force of static friction.

According to still one more aspect, a tubular garment is disclosed having at least one surface configured in a tubular shape with open first and second ends. The garment also includes an interior volume contained within the at least one surface. Furthermore, the garment includes at least one internal compartment disposed within the interior volume, the at least one compartment having at least one opening configured to allow access to the compartment. Also, the garment includes at least one aperture in the at least one surface, the at least one aperture disposed complimentary to the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment to allow access to the at least one internal compartment through the at least one aperture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is made to the following figures in which same reference numbers refer to the same elements throughout the various figures.

FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric view of a tubular garment according to certain aspects.

FIG. 1B illustrates an isometric view of the tubular garment of FIG. 1A with transparent views to show certain aspects of the tubular garment.

FIG. 1C illustrates an isometric view of a tubular garment according to certain aspects where the garment does not include a medial aperture.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 2B illustrates a transparent top view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 3A illustrates a bottom view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 3B illustrates a transparent bottom view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 4A illustrates an exemplary front elevation view of a tubular garment as it would look with deformation due to gravitational force.

FIG. 4B illustrates an exemplary rear elevation view of a tubular garment as it would look with deformation due to gravitational force.

FIG. 5A is a front elevation view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B without any deformation due to a gravitational force.

FIG. 5B is a rear elevation view of the tubular garment in FIGS. 1A and 1B without any deformation due to a gravitational force.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front elevation view of an example of a tubular garment with an open hood section without any deformation due to gravitational force.

FIG. 6B illustrates a rear elevation view of an example of a tubular garment with an open hood section without any deformation due to gravitational force.

FIG. 7A illustrates a side elevation view of right end of the tubular garment of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 7B illustrates a side elevation view of left end of the tubular garment of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 7C illustrates a side elevation view of right end of the tubular garment of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 7D illustrates a side elevation view of left end of the tubular garment of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 7E illustrates a side elevation view of right end of the tubular garment of FIG. 6A illustrating a view when the hood section is extended.

FIG. 7F illustrates a side elevation view of left end of the tubular garment of FIG. 6A illustrating a view when the hood section is extended.

FIG. 8A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight sleeve taper according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8B illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight sleeve taper and an expanded hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8C illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight bowed hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8D illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight bowed hood section and a straight sleeve taper according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8E illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and straight sleeve portions according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8F illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and tapered sleeve portions according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8G illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and tapered sleeve portions, as well as an expanded hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8H illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend, a peaked hood section and straight sleeve portions.

FIG. 8I illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend, a peaked hood section and tapered sleeve portions.

FIG. 8J illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a peaked hood section and straight sleeve portions.

FIG. 8K illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight middle section and expanding sleeve portions.

FIG. 9A illustrates a top view of exemplary internal compartments or components configured in a mitten shape that may be utilized within a tubular garment.

FIG. 9B illustrates a bottom plan view of the exemplary internal compartments or components configured in a mitten shape of FIG. 9A showing flaps for either thumbs or one or more fingers.

FIG. 9C illustrates an isometric view from a top side perspective of exemplary internal compartment or component configured in a mitten shape including an additional interior pocket.

FIG. 9D illustrates an isometric view from a bottom side perspective of the exemplary internal compartment or component of FIG. 9C.

9E further illustrates top and bottom plan views of the exemplary internal compartment or component of FIG. 9C.

FIG. 10A illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use as a traditional scarf according to certain aspects.

FIG. 10B illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user wearing internal mittens according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10C illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user using the garment as a storage receptacle according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10D illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user wearing the garment as sleeves according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10E illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use as an infinity scarf according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10F illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user wearing the garment as a hood according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10G illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user wearing or using the garment as a neck pillow according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10H illustrates a front perspective view of a tubular garment in use with a user wearing the garment as a hair wrap according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a tubular garment having closed or closeable ends and internal padding.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a tubular garment having expanded distal ends.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, however, that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. While aspects are described in this application by illustration to some examples, those skilled in the art will understand that additional implementations and use cases may come about in many different arrangements and scenarios. Innovations described herein may be implemented across many differing shapes, sizes, and arrangements.

Technology has enabled many items that were commonly carried by people in the past to be consolidated or eliminated, subsequently decreasing the number of items normally carried and increasing the relative value of the few items carried. Additionally, large baggage is increasingly no longer necessary, and trends are increasingly shifting away from even standard small baggage. Additionally, people are likely to experience significant temperature and weather changes, whether it is due to diurnal temperature variations, seasonality, travel to different geographies, or simply the variation between indoor and outdoor conditions. However, preparing for all possible weather conditions can be cumbersome, often requiring multiple garments. The challenges to meet weather protection needs and storage needs are further complicated by the desire to achieve a particular fashion or to keep up with current fashion trends. It is often undesirable to utilize utilitarian components with garments or apparel that relegate aesthetic considerations in order to include such components. Accordingly, it would be desirable to have a garment such as a scarf that has utility for storage and weather protection, yet maintains aesthetic design features as well.

The subject technology of this disclosure relates generally to garments or apparel, and more particularly to a tubular garment such as a scarf, which may include an interior surface and a resultant interior space or volume therein. According to certain aspects, the present disclosure provides a multifunctional tubular garment with internal components that is capable of multiple configurations while still achieving an aesthetic appeal. In further aspects, the subject technology includes a multi-functional tubular garment with internally disposed components such as mitten/glove shaped compartments, pockets or other compartments, and hoods that meet the needs of modern lifestyles, particularly for storage, weather, aesthetics, and convenience. The multifunctional tubular garment may be fashioned to include functions such as sleeves, a hood, mittens, pockets, a hair wrap, a neck pillow, an infinity scarf, or a traditional scarf, as examples. This provision of multiple functionalities requires no modification or detachment. The garment may also be tailored to multiple sizes that can be optionally wrapped around a user's neck and worn as a traditional scarf, with comfortable access to the internal components.

There is utility and aesthetic value in removing items from close fitting pockets, as common items often create bulges or disfigure the intended aesthetic value of the garment. Additionally, specialized garments, particularly those intended primarily for athletic use, often do not have adequate storage capabilities. Purses and bags have historically been a common storage solution, but as technological and scientific improvements enable consolidation in other common items, the storage needs and lifestyle preferences have moved toward minimizing the number of carried items.

Avoiding purses and unnecessary baggage has become a popular lifestyle choice. The internal components of the presently disclosed garment can replace common baggage by securely and discreetly acting as a storage receptacle for common items like wallets, keys, phones, and bottles, as examples. The presently disclosed garment further improves a user's preparedness by eliminating the need for supplemental mittens and incorporating them into one garment. Furthermore, the presently disclosed garment can be wrapped a multiple of times around a user's neck to achieve the aesthetic value of an infinity scarf or shemagh. The orientation enables access to at least one compartment that can be used as a pocket secured by zipper. While wrapped, it can optionally be opened widthwise and pulled over a person's head to be worn like a hood. It can optionally be wrapped more tightly to support the wearer's head in the front, back, and sides to make vertical sleeping more comfortable. The internal components used for padding are substantially flat, enabling a neck pillow utility that is a possible further inconspicuous feature.

Moreover, the presently disclosed garment can optionally be worn on a person's arms for warmth and aesthetics. The orientation can be worn on the arms while also draped over the shoulders, achieving the similar utility as a shawl. The garment circumference and a middle or medial opening in the garment may be sized large enough for most people to fit one arm on each sleeve. The open ends distal ends are substantially sized for the hands to be exposed by passing through the open ends. Still further, another feature of the presently disclosed garment may be configuring the garment long enough to be wrapped around a person's head a multiple number of times for aesthetic purposes, while the lining enables the garment to serve as a protective garment for hair.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a tubular garment system or tubular garment 100 (also referred to herein as an elongated tubular garment) is shown according to one example. The garment 100 may be configured having bilateral symmetry along a longitudinal axis, but is not limited to such. In general, the tubular garment system 100 comprises a partially closed, elongated tubular outer layer or surface 500 consisting of a fabric or textile, a tubular interior layer or surface 400 (e.g., the inner surface of the fabric or textile engendering the outer surface 500) and opposite to the outer layer 500, wherein the garment further defines an interior volume within the tube (shown with reference number 702 in FIG. 7C as an example of the interior volume or hollowness inside the tubular garment).

The tubular garment may also include, but is not necessarily limited to having, a middle or medial aperture 150, a medial hood section 155. The garment 100 also includes a first substantially closed lateral sleeve section or distal portion 151, a second substantially closed lateral sleeve section or distal portion 152, a first open end 121, a second open end 122, a first distal aperture 161 disposed toward the first open end 121 that allows access to the internal surface or layer 400 and interior volume defined by the tube shape of the garment 100 (and access to a substantially closed first internal component or compartment 200 in some aspects), a second distal aperture 162 disposed toward the second open end 122 that allows access to the internal surface or layer 400 (and access to a substantially closed second internal component or compartment 300). In an aspect, the first distal aperture 161, medial aperture 150, and second distal aperture 162 may be linearly disposed on substantially the same longitudinal line 130, which may be a longitudinal seam, and may be opposite to an opposing longitudinal midline 135, which may be a seam, but it is noted that a seamless construction is possible in other aspects.

In certain aspects, it is noted here that although two open ends 121 and 122 are illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the garment 100 may have at least one open end at one distal portion (e.g., 151 or 152) along a longitudinal axis of the at least one elongated piece of material (i.e., at least one piece of material defining the outer and inner surfaces (500 and 400) with respect to the median portion 155 of the piece of material.

Additionally, as will be further explained in more detail later, since the materials used for constructing the garment 100 may be flexible, elastic, or stretchable, the interior volume (e.g., 702) is not necessarily fixed or unchanging. Rather, as the garment 100 is used for a user's arms, items stored in the internal components or compartments 200, provision of a hood in the medical hood section 155, etc., the volume may increase. Additionally, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, because the materials used for construction may be flexible or stretchable, the interior volume geometry will change with different usages and loading of the garment 100, but the topology may remain the same or substantially the same (i.e., some degree of expansion or contraction of the volume may occur due to elasticity in the cases where stretchable fabrics or materials are used) in some other aspects. In other aspects, the interior geometry and volume may more widely variable with materials having higher degrees of stretch or elasticity.

In other aspects, it is noted that the inner surface 400 may simply be the other side or surface of the material used to construct the elongated tubular garment. In other aspects, however, the inner surface may also include an inner layer of material that is affixed to the inner surface of the tubular garment. In other aspects, this inner layer of material such as satin or some other material that has a lower coefficient of friction to allow ease of passing objects through the inner volume, such as a user's arms. In further aspects, it noted that a multiple layered construction of different materials or fabrics may also be utilized for the garment 100. For example, the outer surface 500 would be constructed with one material, such as a waterproof or weather resistant material, and the inner surface 400, when comprising another at least one inner layer, could be constructed of another material such as satin.

According to still further aspects, it is noted that the material used for at least the outer surface may consist of material having interior volume, such as air pockets, foam type material, or similar material that is configured to provide padding. This padding enables the garment 100 to function as a neck pillow. Additionally, in other aspects, an embodiment may include the garment without internal components or compartments 200, 300, or the compartments being detachably affixed to a portion of the interior surface with a fastening mechanism, such as hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, magnetic fasteners, a zipper, or any other suitable mechanism.

FIG. 1C illustrates an isometric view of a tubular garment according to certain other aspects where the garment does not include a medial aperture 150, as was mentioned above. In this example, the garment illustrated only includes the first and second distal apertures 161, 162 in the outer surface 500.

Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, these figures respectively illustrate a top plan view and a transparent top plan view of the garment 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In particular, these figures illustrate the garment 100 as viewed from the top where the first open distal end 121 is located at one end portion or sleeve 151 of the garment 100 and the second open distal end 122 is located at the other opposing end portion or sleeve 152. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate having a first or top side 137, which may be generally designated as the front side, although those skilled in the art will recognize that these designations are merely arbitrarily assigned to define a particular side of the garment 100.

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, these figures respectively illustrate both solid and transparent bottom plan views of the garment 100 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B . . . and a second or bottom side 136, which may be generally designated as a back side. Again, those skilled in the art will recognize that these positional designations may be considered merely arbitrarily assigned to define a particular side of the garment 100.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are respective exemplary front and rear elevation views of a tubular garment (e.g., garment 100) as the garment would look with a downward gravitational force acting upon the garment (i.e., toward bottom of page). Accordingly, the garment would lie substantially flat as shown. In FIG. 4A, the apertures 161 and 162 may be located toward each distal end (e.g., within the area of sleeve portions 151, 152) of the garment 100. These apertures 161, 162 in the outer surface of garment 100 couple or cooperate with respective openings in the internal components or compartments 200 and 300 to allow a user to access the internal components or compartments 200 and 300.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are front and rear elevation views, respectively, of the tubular garment 100 in FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrated without substantial deformation due to a gravitational force. These figures are showing that the garment 100 may have interior volume (e.g., 702 in FIG. 7C) geometry changes and the height of the garment may increase. In use, as the garment is flexible and changeable, the interior volume will change geometry in different usages and positions, such that objects placed in the compartments 200 or 300 via apertures 161 or 162 may be accommodated and contained within the interior volume. In other aspects, a user's arms may be inserted in the sleeves 151 or 152 and the shape of the garment will change and allow the user's arms to take up volume within the interior volume.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, these figures respectively show front and rear elevation views of tubular garment 100 in FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrating further aspects of a hood section portion 155. In particular, the hood section 155 may consist of at least a portion the of medial aperture 150 where and disposed generally equidistant between the first open distal end 121 and the second open distal end 122 and disposed proximate to the first sleeve section 151 and the second sleeve section 152. The medial hood section 155 further comprises a medial diameter or opening width 602, a medial aperture 150, wherein the length of the medial hood section 155 may be defined by the longitudinal length of the medial aperture 150 shown at 604 in FIG. 6A.

In certain aspects, the medial diameter or width 602 and the longitudinal length 604 of the medial aperture 150 may be substantially large enough to effectively serve as a hood capable of entirely covering the head and neck of a user, although it is noted that the dimensions may be substantially larger or smaller according to other aspects. According to one aspect, the medial width 602 may be sized to be at least 16 inches and up to approximately 30 inches, which would effectively enable the medial hood section 155 to mostly or entirely cover the head and neck of the user, while the remaining portions (e.g., 151 and 152) of the tubular garment 100 may be optionally wrapped to cover the neck of the user.

In another exemplary aspect, the medial hood section 155 may further comprise the portion of the interior layer 400 disposed between the first proximal sleeve section 181 and the second proximal sleeve section 182. The medial aperture 150 is disposed on the outer layer 500 aligned on the longitudinal axis 130, proximately terminated by the first proximal sleeve section 181 and the second proximal sleeve section 182. The medial aperture 150 comprises a length equal to the length of the medial hood section 155, substantially sized to enable a plurality of users to comfortably cover the anterior or posterior, preferably posterior portion of the torso, from one shoulder to the other. The length of the medial aperture 150 is further substantially sized, preferably between 30 inches and 50 inches, to enable a plurality of users to open flatly a sizable portion of the medial hood section 155 and bend the medial hood section 155 over the top of the head, covering the lateral, posterior, and superior surfaces of the head.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate end views of the tubular garment 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A with deformation due to gravitational force in the downward direction of the figures. As illustrated, the garment includes the tubular shaped outer surface or layer 500, the inner surface 400, and the open distal ends 121 and 122. In one aspect, the tubular outer layer 500 is an elongated hollow body that may be joined at longitudinal sides 130, preferably symmetrical across a coronal plane, wherein the longitudinal midline 135 may be parallel to the opposite longitudinal axis 130.

FIGS. 7C and 7D illustrate end views of the tubular garment 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A without deformation due to gravitational force or similar forces to show how the inner volume 702 is changed to allow space within the garment. As illustrated, the garment includes the tubular shaped outer surface or layer 500, the inner surface 400, which may include an additional lining such as satin, and the open distal ends 121 and 122. Additionally, as the ends 121, 122 are open and the volume 702 geometry shows the air occupying the volume 702, the inner compartments or components 200, 300 are also visible through the open ends 121, 122.

FIGS. 7E and 7F illustrate end views of another example of the tubular garment 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A without deformation due to gravitational force or similar forces. In particular, these figures illustrate an example where the hood portion of the outer surface is extended and visible as shown at hood portions 710.

According to further aspects, instead of a uniform width or circumference of the garment 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, for examples, in other aspects different sleeve and hood geometries are also contemplated. FIGS. 8A-8J illustrate various top plan views of a tubular garment with various different configurations of the sleeve sections (151, 152) and hood or medial sections 155.

FIG. 8A illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight sleeve taper according to aspects of the present disclosure. Here, it can be seen that the sleeve sections 151 and 152 are tapered from a circumference or diameter 113, 114 that is tapered down to a lesser circumference or diameter 111, 112. It is noted here that the circumference is illustrated with a dashed line, and the length of the dashed line represents the circumferential length as a linear line such that longer dashed lines may represent a greater circumference over those lines having a lesser length, for example. The hood or medial section 155 is of a circumference or diameter 115 that may be the same as the larger circumference or diameter 113, 114. The taper is also “straight” meaning that the taper is linear and not curved or varied. The open medial hood section 155 may have a generally constant medial circumference 115 between the first lateral sleeve 151 and the second lateral sleeve 152, wherein the medial circumference 115 is generally equal to the first proximal circumference 113 and the second proximal circumference 114.

FIG. 8B illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight sleeve taper and an expanded hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure. Here, the circumference or diameter 115 for the hood section 155 is increased over or greater than other illustrated examples herein

FIG. 8C illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight bowed hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure. The bowed hood section includes tapering of the hood section on at least one portion of the garment from a circumference or diameter 115 down to a smaller diameter or circumference length 113, 114. FIG. 8D illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight bowed hood section and a straight sleeve taper according to aspects of the present disclosure. It is noted that in the examples of FIGS. 8C and 8D, the peaked hood is located on same side or portion of the garment as apertures 161, 162. The open medial hood section 155, may have a generally bowed shape, wherein the medial circumference 115 decreases laterally toward the first lateral sleeve 151 and the second lateral sleeve 152, wherein the greatest medial circumference 115 is greater than the first proximal circumference 113 and the second proximal circumference 114, enabling the medial hood section 155 to form a more conical shape, thereby further covering the forehead and neck of the user.

FIG. 8E illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and straight sleeve portions according to aspects of the present disclosure. The bend or bent portion is approximately at the midpoint portion of the garment (i.e., the portion at or around illustrated circumference length 115) to engender mirror symmetry as may be seen in the figure, but is not necessarily limited to such and could be asymmetrically placed at a location other than the midpoint area.

FIG. 8F illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and tapered sleeve portions according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8G illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and tapered sleeve portions, as well as an expanded hood section according to aspects of the present disclosure. The expanded hood section means that the circumference length or diameter at 115, as well as 113 and 114 is at least greater than the other examples illustrated herein.

FIG. 8H illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bend and a peaked hood section and straight sleeve portions.

FIG. 8I illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a bent and peaked hood section and tapered sleeve portions.

FIG. 8J illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary tubular garment configured with a peaked hood section and straight sleeve portions. In this example, the peaked hood extends on a side of the garment that is approximately opposite the apertures 161, 162.

FIG. 8K illustrates a top plan view of another exemplary tubular garment configured with a straight middle section and expanding sleeve portions. As may be seen, the garment has a circumference or diameter 812 in the medial or center portion of the garment, and then expanding sleeve portions that expand from circumference or diameter 812 to a greater circumference or diameter 813 at the distal ends 814, 815 of the garment.

As illustrated in the previous examples, the tubular outer layer or surface 500 ends with a first open distal end 121, a second open distal end 122, and may have a first distal outer circumference length 111 (indicated in FIGS. 8A-J), a second distal circumference length 112 (indicated in FIGS. 8A-J), a first proximal circumference length 113 (indicated in FIGS. 8A-J), a second proximal circumference 114, a medial circumference 115, and a length 116 that is may be varied or sized proportional to the various heights of a number of different users. For example a difference of 6 inches in height between users may correlate to a difference of 1 ft. in scarf lengths 116, wherein a 6 ft user may comfortably use a 9 ft. scarf. The tubular outer layer 500 may be a flexible fabric or the like, capable of being draped or wrapped around a user in a plurality of configurations to protect a user from the elements and/or provide ornamental value. The elongated tubular garment 100 may be constructed of materials that allow the garment to maintain a tubular shape in the absence of outside forces, but may also be flattened when pressed or acted upon by a force, such as gravity or tension. In aspects, the tubular outer layer 500 may be constructed of material or fabric where the outer layer 500 is substantially opaque to obscure the view of the internal components or compartments.

The interior layer 400 is disposed on the interior face, opposite to the outer layer 500, comprising a size similar to the outer layer 500 and a shape generally symmetrical to the outer layer 500. In a preferred embodiment the interior layer 400 is a separate flexible fabric or the like, although it is possible that the interior layer 400 is the opposite face of a single outer layer 500. The fabric is preferably made of substantially slick and less absorbent fibers, for example polyester satin or the like, which enables the tubular scarf system to be effective as a covering that protects the integrity and preserves the moisturization of the hair of the user. The interior layer 400 constructed of the preferable materials also enables a user to easily insert arms into the first lateral sleeve portion 151 and the second lateral sleeve portion 152.

In one or more of the examples above, it is further noted that the medial hood section 155 may include one or more fasteners configured to couple to the complimentary fasteners respectively disposed on the dorsal edge of the medial hood section 155 and the ventral edge of the medial hood section 155. In an aspect, such fasteners may comprise one or more buttons and buttonholes or snaps, etc. although other fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners or strings are possible. The fasteners enable the hood section to be held in place while wrapped around the head of the user.

Further, in certain examples both the first sleeve 151 and the second sleeve 152, may comprise a generally cylindrical shape, wherein the first sleeve 151 may have a first proximal circumference 113 that is substantially equal to the first distal circumference 111 and generally constant for a length between the medial hood section 155 and the first distal end 121, and the generally closed second sleeve 152 may have a second proximal circumference 114 that is substantially equal to the second distal circumference 112 and generally constant for a length between the medial hood section 155 and the second distal end 122. The first sleeve length 153 and the second sleeve length 154 may be varied or sized for a number of different arm lengths.

In other examples, one or both of the first sleeve 151 and the second sleeve 152 may comprise a generally tapered circumference, wherein the generally closed first sleeve 151 comprises a first proximal circumference 113 and a first distal circumference 111 that is substantially smaller than the first proximal circumference 113, and the generally closed second sleeve 152 comprises a second proximal circumference 114 and a second distal circumference 112 that is smaller than the second proximal circumference 114.

According to yet further aspects, the first proximal sleeve section 181 may consist of tubular outer layer 500 between the medial hood section 155 and the first closed distal section 171, and a first proximal circumference 113, sizably large enough to enable a plurality of users to insert an arm up to the shoulder. The second proximal sleeve section 182 may consist of the tubular outer layer 500 between the medial hood section 155 and the second closed distal section 172, and a second proximal circumference 114, sizably large enough to enable a plurality of users to insert an arm up to the shoulder. Additionally, the first proximal sleeve section 181 further comprises the interior layer of interior surface 400 between the medial hood section 155 and the first closed distal section 171, and the second proximal sleeve section 182 further comprises the interior layer 400 between the medial hood section 155 and the second closed distal section 172.

The first distal aperture 161 may be disposed on the outer layer 500 on a longitudinal axis 130 toward the first open distal end 121, proximately terminated by the first permanently closed distal section 171 and the first permanently proximal sleeve section 181. The first distal aperture 161 is substantially sized to enable a user to insert a hand and wrist, to access an internally disposed first internal component 200. The second distal aperture 162 may be disposed longitudinally on the outer layer 500 on a longitudinal axis 130 toward the second open distal end 122, and proximately terminated by the second permanently closed distal section 172 and the second permanently proximal sleeve section 182. The second distal aperture 162 is substantially sized to enable a user to insert a hand and wrist, to access an internally disposed second internal component 300, which fully surrounds or extends along the interior edges of the second distal aperture 162.

In other aspects, the first distal aperture 161 and the second distal aperture 162, may each have a closure device e.g., a zipper, one or more buttons or snaps, magnetic fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, etc. to temporarily secure items within the first internal component 200 or the second internal component 300. In one example, the closure device may be a zipper, approximately 7 inches, which may enable the entire first distal aperture 161 and the entire second distal aperture 162 to be independently sealed and reopened.

The distance or sizing between the first distal aperture 161 and the second distal aperture 162 may be sized or varied to enable a plurality of users of different heights and/or arm lengths to wrap the scarf system 100 around the neck in a plurality of ways and to simultaneously use first compartment 200 and/or the second compartment 300 comfortably. The closed distal section 171 may comprise the first open distal end 121, the tubular outer layer 500 between the first distal aperture 161 and the first open distal end 121, with first distal circumference 111 that is sized or dimensioned large enough to enable passage of a user's hands while wearing mittens or gloves, and a length substantially large enough to obscure the view of the internal components, for example the first internal component 200. The second permanently closed distal section 172 comprises the second open distal end 122, the outer layer 500 between the second distal aperture 162 and the first open distal end 122, with second distal circumference 112, sized or dimensioned large enough to enable passage of a user's hands while wearing mittens or gloves, and a length substantially large enough to obscure the view of the internal components, for example the second internal component 300.

In an aspect, the first closed distal section 171 further comprises the interior layer 400 between the first distal aperture 161 and the first open distal end 121, and the second closed distal section 172 further comprises the interior layer 400 between the second distal aperture 162 and the second open distal end 122.

Of yet further note, the tubular garment 100 comprises at least one internal components, compartment, pocket, mitten-shaped compartment, etc. (i.e., 200 and/or 300), which may be inconspicuously disposed internally within the tubular garment system and accessed through a corresponding aperture 161,162. The internal components 200,300 may be proportionally disposed at a dimension that enables for a plurality of users of different heights and/or arm lengths to wear the tubular scarf system 100 and to comfortably use the internal components 200,300. For example, one size may enable the middle of the first internal component 200 to be disposed generally at waist height of the left side of an average sized person, while the tubular scarf system 100 may be simultaneously wrapped about a radial access aligned with the neck of said person, and the middle of internal component 300 may also be disposed generally at waist height of the right side of said person. Internal components may be disposed distally for use with extended arms or proximally for additional security, which may be aligned on the same longitudinal axis 130, parallel to the longitudinal midline 135 on the outer layer 500.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the internal compartments or components 200,300 may be configured in a number of different shapes and/or sizes. In one example illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9E, however, a mitten shaped compartment or component is illustrated.

Turning to FIG. 9A, it may be seen that the compartments 200, 300 are configured with an overall effective width (301, 302) and overall effective height (202, 302). This view in FIG. 9A shows a plan view of one side 240, 340, which is designated as a back side, but this is merely arbitrarily designated to merely describe a side of each compartment that is oriented in a same direction or facing.

Referring to FIG. 9B, this figure shows a plan view of another side of the compartments or components 200, 300, which are designated herein as “front” or “top” sides 220, 320. As may be seen, each compartment or component includes a respective an opening 233, 333, the same effective heights 202, 302, and effective widths 201, 301. The effective height 202,302 may be less than the distance between the nearest distal end 121,122 and the proximal end of the internal components 200,300, enabling the outer layer 500 to entirely cover and obscure the view of the internal component 200,300. The effective width 201,301 may be less than half of the distal circumference 111,112, enabling the internal components 200,300 to remain substantially inconspicuous when the tubular garment system 100 is flattened, minimizing the minor axis and maximizing the major axis designating the coronal plane between the edges at the longitudinal axis 130 and the longitudinal midline 135 as major axis. For example the effective width 201,301 may be approximately 6 to 12 inches, and the effective height 202, 302 may be approximately 8 to 16 inches.

The internal components 200,300 may be constructed of any suitable materials having the necessary warmth, flexibility, and wearability characteristics for a mitten, as well as the necessary durability characteristics for a pocket, and/or the padding characteristics necessary for a pillow, such as fleece material, wool, or the like.

Referring now to FIG. 9A-9D, the internal components 200,300 may designate a first mitten pocket 200 and a second mitten pocket 300, which may have the novel and improved features described herein. While the preferred embodiment comprises internal components 200,300 illustrated as internal mitten, it is pointed out that it may be employed in glove or pocket structures as well as mittens. According to certain aspects, compartments or components 200,300 may be detachably disposed symmetrical to each other toward each open distal end 121,122.

The first internal component 200, relative to the second internal component 300, may be identical in proportions, but is not necessarily limited to such. Each may be generally disposed internally within the tubular garment and have an opening 233, 333 that corresponds to and aligns with the corresponding distal apertures 161,162 toward each opposing open end 121,122. In aspects, these may be designated as a wrist opening 233,333, and have dimensions such as a palm width 231, 331, a finger width 221, 321, and an effective depth 203, 303 from the wrist opening 233, 333 to the furthest point of the finger edge 204, 304 that extends beyond the corresponding distal aperture 161,162 by a substantially distal length as to create a large enough enclosed capacity to enable the internal component 200, 300 to optionally function effectively as a pocket for storage of a plurality of commonly carried items such as phones, bottles and wallets and/or a mitten capable of comfortably receiving the hands of the user. For example, the internal component 200, 300 may comprise an effective depth 203, 303 of at least 10 inches, a palm width 201, 301 of at least approximately 6 inches, a finger width 201, 301 of at least 4.5 inches, and a wrist opening 203, 303 of at least approximately 6 inches wide.

The components 200, 300 comprise the back layers 240, 340, and a symmetrical front layer 245, 345 comprising, a palm layer 230,330, a thumb aperture 213,313, thumb overlap 215,315, a thumb flap 210,310, a finger aperture 223,323, finger overlap 225,325, and a finger flap 220,320, a finger edge 204, a purlicue edge 205, and a thumb edge 206.

The finger aperture 223,323 is disposed widthwise across the fingers, comprising a lengthwise overlap 225,325, of the finger flap 220,320, preferably superficial, to the palm layer 230,330, proximately terminated by the purlicue edge 205,305 and the finger flap seam 236,336, which may be substantially far enough from the finger edge 204,304 to enable a plurality of common items to be effectively secured, and substantially close enough to the finger edge 204,304 to enable at least one or more fingers, to be protruded through the finger aperture 223,323, thereby enabling a user to selectively use uncovered fingers while using or wearing the internal component 200,300. In other words, the finger apertures may be selectively opened and closed to allow a user to expose one or more fingers when holding objects or operating a mobile phone.

The thumb aperture 213,313 is disposed widthwise across the thumb, comprising a lengthwise overlap 215,315 of the thumb flap 210,310 that may be part of the palm layer 230,330, and also approximately ending or terminated at the purlicue edge 205,305 and the thumb edge 206,306, which may be substantially narrow enough to enable a plurality of common items to be effectively secured, and substantially wide enough to enable a user to optionally use an uncovered thumb while using or wearing the internal component 200,300. Thus, the thumb apertures may be selectively opened and closed to allow a user to expose one or more fingers when holding objects or operating a mobile phone.

In other aspects, it is noted that the fabric or material used for constructing the internal component could alternatively include conductive material in at least thumb and finger flap regions that enables a user to operate a capacitive touch screen such as those used in mobile phone devices without extended a thumb or at least one finger through apertures.

Referring now to FIGS. 9B and 9D, according to an example, the left finger aperture 223 and the right finger aperture 323, may each have a finger closure device 252,352 e.g., hook and loop fastener, one or more buttons or snaps, etc. to temporarily secure items within either of the internal components 200,300. In one example, the closure device may be a hook and loop fastener, with a male portion disposed adjacent to the palm 240,340 parallel to the female portion disposed deeply to the finger flap 220,320. The finger closure device 252,352 enables the finger aperture 223,323 to be optionally secure enough to retain small items such as coins or loose medication. Without the finger closure device 252,352, the finger aperture 223,323 is generally secure enough to retain most items, but it may also be possible for small items to unintentionally pass through the finger aperture 223,323.

In the alternative embodiment, the left thumb aperture 213 and the right thumb aperture 313 may also each have a thumb closure device 251,351 (e.g., a hook and loop fastener, one or more buttons or snaps, etc.) to temporarily secure items within either of the internal components 200,300. In an example, the closure device may be a hook and loop fastener, with a male or hook portion disposed superiorly to the palm 240,340 parallel to the female or loop portion disposed deeply to the thumb flap 210,310. The thumb closure device 251,351 enables the thumb aperture 213,313 to be optionally secure enough to retain small items such as coins. Without the thumb closure device 251,351, the thumb aperture 213,313 is generally secure enough to retain most items, but it may also be possible for small items to unintentionally pass through the thumb aperture 213, 313.

In other aspects, at least one additional compartment, component, or pocket may be disposed within the compartments 200, 300. As an example, FIGS. 9C-E illustrate top and bottom trimetric views, and top and bottom plan view of just one compartment 300, as exemplary, having an additional compartment 360 disposed within the compartment 300 to further hold and secure items, such as a mobile phone.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10H, these figures illustrate various usages of the tubular garment, such as garment 100 or the various garments of FIGS. 8A-8J.

As may be seen in FIG. 10A, an exemplary tubular garment 100 may be adjustably wrapped about a neck and/or torso one or more times. In at least one configuration, the first lateral sleeve 151 and the second lateral sleeve 152 may be constructed with sufficient length to hang vertically in the ornamental style of a traditional scarf. For reference, FIG. 10A also illustrates the location of one aperture 161 with respect to a user's limbs, hands, etc. to thereby easily enable a user to insert their hand into the apertures 161, 162, and the respectively internally located internal components or compartments 200, 300 (not shown in this figure as they are within the garment interior).

Referring now to FIG. 10B, this figure illustrates that the tubular garment 100 may be used as mittens (or gloves) for warming the hands of the user, wherein the first lateral sleeve 151 and the second lateral sleeve 152 may be sized with sufficient length to enable one hand to be placed in each internal component or compartment 200, 300. Furthermore, this figure illustrates use of the selectively openable thumb aperture 213 in compartment 200 enabling a user to expose a thumb, as an example.

Referring now to FIG. 10C this figure shows that one or more distal openings may be exposed, enabling access to the internally disposed first internal components 200, 300 as they are passed through the open ends 121 or 122.

Referring now to FIG. 10D, this figure illustrates that the tubular garment 100 may be disposed as 360 degree radial cover for one or both arms of the user, wherein the medial hood section 155 may be opened, enabling a hand and arm to be inserted through the medial aperture 150 into the first lateral sleeve 151, and/or a hand and arm to be inserted through the medial aperture 150 into the second lateral sleeve 152. The hands of the user may optionally protrude through the open distal ends (e.g., 122 as shown in the figure), enabling the user to perform manual tasks. The lateral sleeves may be sizably long to proportionally fit arm lengths of a plurality of users.

Referring now to FIGS. 10E and 10G, in at least one configuration, one of the lateral sleeves 151 or 152 can be substantially inserted into the distal end 122 or 121 of the opposing lateral sleeve 152 or 151, wherein the tubular scarf system 100 may maintain a circular or coiled shape without modification or fastening. In an aspect, it is noted the material comprising the outer surface 500 may be a material with a higher coefficient of friction as compared with materials such as satin, as well as the inner compartments 200 or 300 also being constructed of a material having a higher coefficient comparable to material of the outer surface 500, or at least higher than material used for inner lining of the inner surface 400. Thus, when one sleeve (151, 152) is inserted into the opposing lateral sleeve, the friction present when the outer material of surface 500 contacts the inner compartment 200, 300 will engender enough static friction to hold the garment 100 in the circular or coiled shape.

Referring now to FIG. 10F, in an exemplary configuration, the tubular scarf system 100 may be wrapped a plurality of times around a vertical axis that is aligned with the neck of the user. One of the lateral sleeves 151, 152 may optionally be substantially inserted into the distal end 122, 121 of the opposing lateral sleeve 152, 151, wherein the tubular scarf system 100 may maintain a circular or coiled shape without modification or fastening. The internal components 200,300 may be of substantial thickness to effectively serve as padding, preferably anterior to the neck, thereby supporting the chin of the user. The tubular scarf system 100 may comprise enough materially to substantially support the head of the user about a 360 degree axis that is aligned with the neck of the user.

Referring now to FIG. 10G, in at least one configuration, the medial aperture 150 may be disposed posteriorly on the neck, preferably cranial to the rest of the medial hood section 155, enabling the medial hood section 155 to be opened over the head and neck of the user, effectively functioning as a hood. The hood may be held in place by wrapping the lateral sleeves 151, 152 around a vertical axis that is aligned with the wearer's neck. One or both of the lateral sleeves 151,152 may be substantially inserted into the distal end 122, 121 of the opposing lateral sleeve 152,151, wherein the tubular scarf system 100 may maintain a circular or coiled shape without modification or fastening.

Referring now to FIG. 10H, in at least one configuration the medial hood section may be opened to cover the head of the user while the lateral sleeves 151,152 may be wrapped or tied in a plurality of styles, enabling the user to partially or entirely cover the hair. The lateral sleeves 151,152 comprise substantial enough capacities to enable users with a plurality of hair lengths to insert hair into one or both of the lateral sleeves.

FIG. 11 illustrates a top plan view of an example of a tubular garment 1100 having closed or closeable ends and internal padding according to yet further aspects. In this example, the tubular garment 1100 includes a hollow interior volume (not indicated by a reference number) and closed or closeable ends 1102, 1004. The garment 1100 further includes inconspicuous padding areas 1106 and 1108, which may be disposed inside the hollow interior and affixed to a portion thereof, as well as being generally disposed at distal end portions of the garment 1100. Furthermore, the garment 1100 may include fastening mechanisms 1110 and 1112, such as the respective male and female portions of a hook and loop fastener system, that allows the ends of the garment to be selectively affixed or joined to one another. With this garment configuration, the garment may be joined at the ends such that the padding areas 1106 and 1108 may be used to create a pillow (e.g., a neck pillow), that also may be used as a scarf when the ends are not joined. In other aspects, the ends 1102, 1104 could be joined by tucking the ends like an elastic bandage, rather than using the fastening mechanisms 1110, 1112. In yet other aspects, the ends 1102, 1104 may be open to allow air flow through the interior of the tubular garment 1100 and maximize the aesthetics as well. In still other aspects, additional padding areas or differently placed padding areas may also be contemplated, such as placing the padding areas or portion 1106 and 1108 closer to the middle of the garment along the longitudinal axis such that they are distributed on each side of a user's neck.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top plan view of an example of a hollow tubular garment 1200 having expanded distal ends. In this example, the garment 1200 may include open ends 1202, 1204 and also expanded distal end portions 1206, 1208. In this example, the expanded end portions 1206, 1208 are configured with enough additional circumference length to provide additional outer material that serves to provide or function as padding, such as to provide a neck pillow without the use of internal components. Additionally, since the ends 1202 and 1204 are open, the garment 1200 may allow one end to be inserted into the other tubular end opening. Furthermore, garment 1200 may be folded over on to the outside of itself and the other end being inserted into the hollow interior in order to provide padding.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. A phrase referring to “at least one of” a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, “at least one of: a, b, or c” is intended to cover: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.

Claims

1. An elongated tubular garment comprising:

at least one elongated piece of material configured in a tube shape having an outer surface, an interior surface, and an interior volume defined by the interior surface, and having at least one open end at at least one distal portion along a longitudinal axis of the at least one elongated piece of material with respect to a median portion of the piece of material;

at least one internal compartment disposed within at least a portion of the interior volume and having at least one opening configured to allow access to the compartment; and

at least one aperture in the elongated piece of material, the at least one aperture positioned relative to the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment to provide access to the at least one internal compartment through the at least one opening and the at least one aperture.

2. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the at least one compartment is configured in one of a mitten or glove shape.

3. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the at least one compartment further comprises:

at least one further opening disposed in a portion of the at least one compartment that is separate from the at least one opening, wherein the at least one further opening configured to be selectively opened to allow at least a second access to the at least one compartment.

4. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, further comprising:

a closure mechanism configured to allow closure of the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment.

5. The elongated tubular garment of claim 4, wherein the closure mechanism comprises at least one of a zipper, one or more buttons, hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, or magnetic fasteners.

6. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the at least one internal compartment is detachable, wherein the at least one internal compartment is detachably affixed to a portion of the interior surface with a fastening mechanism.

7. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the tubular garment further comprises a medial aperture in the outer surface located in a medial region of the tubular garment with respect to the longitudinal axis, the medial aperture configured to allow access to the inner surface and volume of the tubular garment.

8. The elongated tubular garment of claim 7, wherein the medial aperture is sized to allow at least a portion of medial region to be used as a hood.

9. The elongated tubular garment of claim 8, wherein the hood may include a peaked portion that increases the size of the hood.

10. An elongated tubular garment of claim 1, further comprising a separate lining material affixed to at least a portion of the interior surface, the separate lining material having a coefficient of friction that is lower than at least material used for constructing the outer surface and the at least one compartment.

10. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, further comprising padding material disposed inside a least a portion of the interior surface, wherein the padding material has a semi-rigid structure configured to provide shape for the garment.

11. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the at least one compartment is configured in a mitten shape having a thumb portion and a finger portion, wherein at least one of the thumb portion and the finger portion may respectively include a selectively openable thumb aperture or finger aperture.

12. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the circumference of the garment is constant along the longitudinal axis of the garment.

13. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the circumference of the garment is varied along the longitudinal axis of the garment to include tapering of the distal ends of the garment with respect to a portion of the medial portion.

14. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein one or more materials comprising the at least one compartment and the outer surface have coefficients of friction such that when one end of garment is placed into the other end of the garment, the combined coefficient of friction is of a value that allows the one end to stay in the other end through a force of static friction.

15. The elongated tubular garment of claim 1, wherein the at least one compartment further comprises a second compartment disposed within the at least one compartment.

16. A tubular garment comprising:

at least one surface configured in a tubular shape with open first and second ends;

an interior volume contained within the at least one surface;

at least one internal compartment disposed within the interior volume, the at least one compartment having at least one opening configured to allow access to the compartment; and

at least one aperture in the at least one surface, the at least one aperture disposed complimentary to the at least one opening of the at least one internal compartment to allow access to the at least one internal compartment through the at least one aperture.