RAIN JACKET HAVING WEATHER-PROTECTIVE COLLAR

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to golf jackets and more particularly to golf jackets having weather-protective shaped collars. The jacket is suitable for wearing on and off the golf course.

Brief Review of the Related Art

Both professional and amateur golfers use specialty golf outerwear, particularly golf jackets today. Typically, the jacket includes a shell made of multiple layers of bonded fabric. The fabric is breathable and wicks moisture and perspiration away from the person wearing the jacket. Many of the jackets provide a high range of motion so golfers enjoy wearing the jacket while walking and playing the course, particularly when there is inclement weather. The jackets provide protection against windy and rainy conditions and many jackets are made of waterproof material. Some of the jackets also are considered fashionable and golfers enjoy wearing these jackets off the course.

For example, Rodriguez et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,341,766 discloses a golf jacket having a jacket shell with a pocket in an upper region. A semi-rigid collar is stored in the pocket. When the golfer wants to use the collar, they partially remove it from the pocket. Thus, the semi-rigid collar can be moved between a storage position inside of the pocket to a use position outside of the pocket.

Erickson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,946,724 discloses a golf jacket having a liner, shell, and elastic cinch. The opposing ends of the cinch are anchorable to the jacket shell and protrude to the outside. The cinch protrudes through holes in the shell that are disposed within pockets on the outside of the shell. When the ends of the cinch are anchored to the shell, the cinch flattens the front of the abdomen, preventing otherwise bunched-up fabric from interfering with the wearer's golf swing. The tension in the cinch is adjustable by anchoring the cinch end to the shell in one of various relative positions.

Meek, United States Design Patent D294,395 discloses a design for a golf jacket.

Although some conventional golf jackets are somewhat effective in providing protection against various weather conditions, there is a need for an improved jacket. Particularly, there is a need for a golf jacket having a collar construction that creates a more effective water-tight seal without sacrificing comfort. The collar should have sufficient rigidity and yet be comfortable around the neck region. Also, the collar should be constructed so that it does not distract or interfere with a golfer while they are bending over to address the ball and make a shot. The present invention provides new golf jackets with collar structures having improved weather-protective features and comfort as well as other advantageous properties, features, and benefits.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a golf jacket having an improved collar structure. The jacket comprises a shell having: i) a torso portion that extends from a shoulder region to hip region of a wearer; ii) a collar portion that extends around a neck region of a wearer. The torso and collar portions each include first and second side members that are joined by a zipper extending along the length of the jacket shell. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of the respective torso and collar portions.

The collar includes a body member having upper and lower edges. The body member also has a center section and first and second pieced end sections. In the collar portion, the first zipper teeth are attached to an edge of the first pieced section, and the second zipper teeth are attached to an edge of the second pieced section. The center section of the collar has a height from the lower edge to the upper edge (H1), and each end section has a height from the lower edge to the upper edge (H2). The H1 and H2 have different values. In particular, the height of the center section is greater than the height of the end sections. For example, in one version, the height of the center section (H1) is about 3.25 inches; while the height of each end section (H1 and H2) is about 2.6 inches. In one preferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationship of: H1>(1.2)H2. In another preferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationship of: (1.2)H21<H1<(1.4)H2.

In a preferred embodiment, the jacket construction has a minimal amount of panels and seams. The jacket includes a shell comprising: i) a torso region extending from a shoulder region to hip region of a wearer; ii) a collar region for extending around a neck region of the wearer, the torso and collar regions each including first and second side members; iii) a zipper extending from the torso to collar region, the zipper including first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of the torso region together and first and second side members of the collar region together.

The shell also includes a first panel extending from a first shoulder region to a first wrist region and an adjacent second panel extending from the torso region to the first wrist region, the first and second panels being joined together by a seam to form an arm sleeve for encompassing a first arm; v) a third panel extending from an opposing second shoulder region to a second wrist region and an adjacent fourth panel extending from the torso region to the second wrist region, the third and fourth panels being joined together by a seam to form an arm sleeve for encompassing a second arm; and a fifth panel extending around the torso region, the fifth panel joined to the first and second panels by a fifth seam and to the third and fourth panels by a sixth seam.

The jacket has a lightweight construction, good temperature-regulating properties, high stretch/elasticity, and an outer surface that is highly waterproof. The jacket of this invention has both sufficient rigidity and flexibility. The jacket is durable and provides good weather-protection against the elements and yet it is also comfortable. A person wearing the jacket is free to move in any direction. The person has full range of motion when wearing the jacket. The jacket is described primarily herein as being used in golf, but the jacket can be worn while performing many other activities including, for example, tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking.

In another embodiment the present invention is directed to a jacket including a shell. The shell has a torso region configured for extending from a shoulder region to hip region of a wearer, the torso region also includes a top edge, a bottom edge and first and second torso side edges, a collar assembly configured for extending around a neck region of the wearer and connected to the top edge of the torso region, the collar assembly including first and second collar side ends, an inner collar member and an outer collar member, and a zipper extending from the torso bottom edge to the collar assembly, the zipper includes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second torso side edges of the torso region together and first and second side ends of the collar assembly together. Preferably, the inner collar member is configured for closing into a smaller diameter tube to more tightly lie against the neck region of the wearer.

In another embodiment the present invention is directed to a collar for a jacket. The collar assembly is configured for extending around a neck region of a wearer and connecting to a top edge of a torso region of a jacket, the collar assembly includes first and second collar side ends, an inner collar member, and an outer collar member. Preferably, the first and second side ends of the collar region are configured to be capable of being connected to one another by a zipper to form a tubular collar configured to fit around a neck region of a wearer, and the inner collar member is configured for closing more tightly against the neck region of the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features that are characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the preferred embodiments of the invention, together with further objects and attendant advantages, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket of the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a rear perspective view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1B is a close-up side view of the golf jacket collar shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1C is a close-up front view of the golf jacket collar shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of one embodiment of collar of a golf jacket of the prior art;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a collar of a golf jacket of the prior art;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is another schematic view of the collar of FIG. 4 showing an inside view of the collar;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of one embodiment of a golf jacket collar of the present invention showing an outside view of the collar;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a back view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of one embodiment of the golf jacket of this invention showing the different panels and seams of the jacket;

FIG. 10 is a close-up side view of a collar of a golf jacket of the prior art with a cut-away of the collar to show its construction and use on a golfer in the rain;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a golf jacket of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a close-up front view of the collar assembly of the golf jacket of FIG. 11, the collar assembly being laid flat and having a cut-away to show an inside view of the inner collar construction;

FIG. 13 is close-up side view of the collar of the jacket of FIG. 11 with a cut-away of the collar assembly to show its construction and use on a golfer in the rain;

FIG. 14 is a detailed cut-away view of the collar assembly as shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a close-up back view of the collar assembly of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 11; and

FIG. 16 is a front detailed view of the collar of the golf jacket of FIG. 11, the collar assembly being laid flat and having a cut-away to show an inside view of the inner collar of another embodiment of the collar assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, the jacket of the present invention is indicated at (14) and generally includes a jacket shell having a torso portion (16), an integrated collar portion (18), and a zipper (20) that extends from the torso to collar portions. The jacket includes an outer surface and an inner surface, allowing a person to wear the jacket over their body in a normal manner. In a preferred embodiment, the jacket shell (14) is made of a three-layer bonded waterproof fabric. The inside layer is a brushed knit tricot. The middle layer is a polyurethane membrane. The outer layer is a polyester woven fabric with mechanical stretch and durable water repellent (DWR) finish.

The torso portion (16) includes a front section (22) as shown in FIG. 1 and a rear section (23) as shown in FIG. 1A. In general, the torso portion (16) extends from the shoulder region to the hip region of a wearer. The jacket shell (14) further includes sleeves (24a, 24b) that extend from the arm openings inside of the shell. The right sleeve (24a) extends from a right shoulder region (26a) to a right wrist region (28a), and the left sleeve (24b) extends from a left shoulder region (26b) to a left wrist region (28b) of a wearer.

The front section (22) of the jacket shell (14) is split into two side members by a zipper (20) or other suitable fastening means (for example, buttons, snap fasteners, laces, Velcro® hook and loop fasteners, and the like). A traditional zipper (20) may be used in the jacket shell construction. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of the front section together. The first and second side members of front section are joined and held together by the zipper. The zipper also joins the first and second side members of the collar region as discussed further below. In this manner, the jacket shell can be closed to cover the collar, torso, shoulder, and arm regions of the person wearing the jacket. Additionally, the jacket shell may include a pocket in the upper regions of the torso portion. For example, the jacket shell (14) may include a zippered pocket (29) in the upper chest area as shown in FIG. 1. The jacket also may include pockets in the lower side regions of the torso portion for placing hands or various objects. These pockets may be opened and closed by a zipper or other suitable releasable closing means. For example, the jacket shell (14) may include right-sided and left-sided zippered pockets (31a, 31b) as shown in FIG. 1.

Turning to FIGS. 2 and 3, a golf jacket and particularly a collar construction of the prior art are shown. The prior art golf jacket (30) includes a collar (32) having a body member (34) with lower and upper edges (35, 36), the body member having a center section (37) and first and second end sections (38, 39). The end sections are not pieced sections; they are not joined to the body member by a seam of stitching. The center section (37) has a height from the lower edge (35) to the upper edge (36) indicated as (H1), and the end sections (38, 39) have a height from the lower edge (35) to the upper edge (36) indicated as (H2). In the golf jackets of the prior art, H1 and H2 are substantially the same dimensions. The conventional golf jacket (30) further includes a zipper (40) for closing the jacket including collar.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the golf jacket (12) of the present invention having an improved collar structure (18) is shown. The shaped collar (18) is shown in more detail in FIGS. 4, 4A, and 5. Referring to FIGS. 4 (outside view of the collar with piecing of sections shown) and 4A (inside view of the collar with piecing of sections not shown), the collar (18) includes a body member (44) with a lower edge (46) and upper edge (48). The body member has a center section (50) and a first end section (52) and second end section (54). The collar end sections (52, 54) are pieced sections and are joined to the body member (44) by a seam of stitching (55). As shown in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the collar end sections (52, 54) extend outwardly at an angle, where the sections are seamed to the collar body (44). The respective collar end sections (52, 54) have lower edges (53, 57) that extend upwardly and form an angle with the lower edge (46) of the collar body member, and the angle of each of these collar edges is preferably thirty-five degrees) (35°. The center section (50) has a height from the lower edge (46) to the upper edge (48) indicated at a first height (H1). Meanwhile, the end section (52) has a height from its lower edge (53) to its upper edge (59) indicated at a second height (H2). Likewise, the end section (54) has a height from it lower edge (57) to its upper edge (61) also indicated at (H2). The height of each collar end section (52, 54) is the same; however, the height of the collar center section (50) is different than the height of the end sections (52, 54). Thus, (H1) and (H2) are unequal numerical values, and preferably are substantially unequal. The shaped collar (42) has different height dimensions along its length. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 4A, each of the end sections (52, 54) has a height from their lower edge to their third height at the apex (H3), and the end sections (52, 54) also have a height from their lower edge to their upper edge of the zipper (20) designated as the fourth height (H4), wherein the H1; H2; H3; and H4 numerical values are unequal. Preferably, H3 is greater than H1 which is greater than H2 which is greater than H4. The center and end sections of the shaped collar (42) are non-uniform in height. In particular, the height of the center section (50) is greater than the height of the first and second end sections (52, 54), and this is an advantageous feature as discussed further below. For example, in one embodiment, the height of the center section (H1) is 3.25 inches; while the height of each end section (H2) is 2.6 inches.

Although the height of the center section (H1) is greater than the height of each end section (H2), it is important the front area of the collar does not extend upwardly over the chin area of a person wearing the jacket. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the forward-facing area of the collar (18) has a maximum height such that the upper edge (48) does not extend over the chin/lower jaw area. It is important that a person wearing the golf jacket be able to move his or her head freely and easily. The collar (18) should not restrict any movement, and it should be comfortable around the neck. Since the upper edge (48) of the front area of the collar (18) does not extend over the chin area, the wearer of the jacket has good range of head/neck motion. This flexibility is particularly important when addressing the golf ball and making shots on the course. Furthermore, the collar (18) does not have any large shoulder or abutment areas designed for fitting helmets, masks, or other head gear with the jacket. Instead, the upper edge of the collar (18) provides a fitted and stylish look. With this trim and sporty design, the jacket can be worn in formal and informal settings. The collar (18) is neatly tailored and also provides protection against weather elements so the jacket can be worn comfortably on and off the course.

As discussed above, the height of the center section (50) and end sections (52, 54) are different. In one preferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationship of: H1>(1.2)H2. In another preferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationship of: (1.2)H2<H1<(1.4)H2. Also, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the shaped collar (60) includes a body member (62) with lower and upper edges (63, 64), wherein the outside surface of upper edge (63) (at Point A) is tangential to a first circle circumscribed on the outside surface; and the inside surface of upper edge (63) (at Point B) is tangential to a second circle circumscribed on the inside surface. And, the radius of the first circle (R1 with tangential Point A) is less than the radius of the second circle (R2 with tangential Point B). For example, in one embodiment, the first circle has a radius (R1) of 10.5 inches; while the second circle has a radius (R2) of 33.5 inches. The shaped collar (60) is similar to the shaped collar (18) in FIGS. 4 and 4A in that the height of the center section (66) (at point H1) is greater than the height of the of the first and second end sections (68, 70) (at point H2).

In a preferred embodiment of the golf jacket of this invention, a zipper extends from the torso to collar portion as discussed above. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of the torso portion together and the first and second side members of the collar portion together. The first zipper teeth are attached to an edge of the first pieced section and the second zipper teeth are attached to an edge of the second pieced section. When the zipper is pulled-up to close the collar portion, the collar is closed around the neck region of the wearer. When closed, the collar provides a neat, uniformed look. The collar is sufficiently rigid so that it will stay in place and prevent a wearer's neck region from being exposed to rain and other elements and yet the collar is not excessively tight. The collar has a soft and comfortable “feel” and a person wearing the jacket can bend their neck and move easily even when the collar is in a fully closed position. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the first and second pieced end sections (52, 54) of the collar may have sloped upper edges (59, 61). When the collar is zippered-up and these angled upper edges (59, 61) are joined together, a truncated V-shaped notch is formed in the collar.

The jacket of the present invention has many advantages including comfort, flexibility, and durability. The jacket is relatively lightweight and provides the golfer with a complete range of motion. And yet, the jacket is durable enough to protect the golfer from severe weather conditions. For example, some golfers prefer to walk the golf course. Even golfers, who prefer to drive carts, will walk a considerable distance during their round of play. This can be particularly difficult in stormy weather. Thus, a golf jacket needs to protect the wearer from rain, wind, and other outside elements, but it also must allow a person to move freely so they can walk and play the game easily. Thus, the jacket needs to have some rigidity, but it also needs to be sufficiently flexible. The golf jacket of the present invention is durable and stable and yet it is sufficiently flexible. The jackets of this invention also can be worn while engaging in many other activities such as tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking. Alternatively, the jackets may be worn as casual wear outside of athletic programs.

As discussed above, one particular advantageous feature of the jacket is the collar construction. As shown in FIG. 3, in conventional jackets, there is a tendency for the jacket to “sag” in the collar region (32). This stretching and sagging of the collar (32) may expose the neck region to sun, wind, rain, sleet, and other elements. Furthermore, the excessively loose collar may bother the golfer while he/she is focusing on the ball and making a shot. In play, golfers bend their neck and keep their head down when swinging a club. If the collar sags or is stretched excessively, it can be a distraction to the golfer. If there is loose collar material hanging down, it can interfere with the golfer when he/she is bending over and addressing the ball. In contrast to such conventional collars, the collar construction of the present invention (as shown in FIG. 1) provides a snug and structured fit around the neck region. As discussed above, the height of the center section is greater than the height of the first and second end sections. Thus, the collar fits higher on the back portion of the neck. In this way, the collar provides an effective water-tight seal and prevents rain, sleet, and other elements from running down the back of the neck. The collar maintains its weather-protective seal around the neck of the wearer during walking, golfing, or any other activity. The collar is held firmly in position during these activities. This uniformed look is aesthetically-pleasing and also comfortable. Also, there is no sagging collar material to distract or interfere with the golfer when he/she is looking down at the ball to make a shot. The collar is held tightly in place and yet is comfortable around the neck region.

In another embodiment of this invention, a jacket having a minimal amount of panels and seams can be constructed. The jacket has a lightweight construction, good temperature-regulating properties, high stretch/elasticity, and an outer surface that is highly waterproof. Many conventional jackets contain 20 or more panels that are joined together by 25 or more seams. These panels and seams can make the jacket feel heavy and bulky. When wearing such jackets, the golfer can feel their mobility being restricted. This uncomfortable and tight feeling can affect playing performance. In contrast, in one embodiment of the jacket of this invention, the jacket contains 10 or less panels, preferably 2 to 5 panels and 6 or less seams, preferably 2 to 6 seams as described in further detail below. These jackets are lightweight and less bulky than many conventional jackets. The jacket also has good waterproof properties. By having fewer panels and seams, the water is naturally repelled—there are fewer places for water to collect. Furthermore, the jacket gives the golfer greater mobility. These jackets are comfortable to wear and do not restrict the golfer's ability to move their torso, arms, and other body parts so they can better play the game.

Particularly, the jacket is made of a three-layer bonded waterproof fabric. The inside layer (liner) is a brushed knit. For example, the liner can be made of “ThermoLite” hollow core fibers which help to trap body heat when weather conditions are cool and help to wick away moisture and remove heat when conditions are warm. The middle layer is a polyurethane membrane. The outer layer is a polyester woven fabric with mechanical stretch and durable water repellent (DWR) finish. The jacket has good stretch properties and this helps the wearer move freely. The jacket is soft and comfortable to wear.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the jacket shell (74) includes a torso portion that extends from the shoulder region to the hip region of a wearer. The torso portion includes a front section (72) as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 and a rear section (73) as shown in FIG. 8.

The jacket shell (74) further includes sleeves (74a, 74b) extending from the arm openings inside of the shell. The right sleeve (74a) extends from a right shoulder region (76a) to a right wrist region (78a), and the left sleeve (74b) extends from a left shoulder region (76b) to a left wrist region (78b) of a wearer. The front section (72) of the jacket shell (74) is split into two side members by a zipper (20) or other suitable fastening means (for example, buttons, snap fasteners, laces, Velcro® hook and loop fasteners, and the like).

As described above, a traditional zipper (20) may be used in the jacket shell (74) construction. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of the front section together. The first and second side members of front section are joined and held together by the zipper. The zipper also joins the first and second side members of the collar region as discussed above. The collar (18) in this embodiment of the jacket (74) has the same construction as the collar described above. In this manner, the jacket shell can be closed to cover the collar, torso, shoulder, and arm regions of the person wearing the jacket. Additionally, the jacket shell may include a pocket in the upper regions of the torso portion. For example, the jacket shell may include a zippered pocket in the upper chest area as shown in FIG. 1 discussed above. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the jacket of this invention also may include pockets (75a, 75b) in the lower side regions of the torso portion for placing hands or various objects. These pockets may be opened and closed by a zipper or other suitable releasable closing means.

As shown in FIG. 9, in one preferred embodiment, the jacket (shell) (74) consists of five panels (80, 81, 82, 83, and 84) which are joined together by six seams of stitching (90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95). This unique construction of a jacket shell consisting of five panels and six seams allows the golfer to feel comfortable and move freely while wearing the jacket. In this example, the jacket shell contains a limited amount of panels (five) and seams (six). There are no excess panels or seams that can make the jacket feel heavy and bulky. The jacket is lightweight and allows the golfer to have a high range of motion. The golfer can move his/her torso and arms easily in any direction without getting entangled inside of the jacket. The flexibility of the jacket allows the golfer to bend their arms and move freely even when the jacket is zippered-up. The jacket does not feel bulky or “bunch-up” on the wearer who is walking or making golf shots or engaging in any other activity such as, for example, tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking.

More particularly, the jacket includes a first panel (80) extending from a first shoulder region to a first wrist region and an adjacent second panel (82) extending from the corresponding upper torso region to the first wrist region, the first and second panels (80, 82) being joined together by first (90) and second (92) longitudinally-extending stitched seams. The stitched together panels (80, 82) form an arm sleeve for encompassing one arm of a person wearing the jacket. In FIG. 9, the enjoined panels (80, 82) are shown forming the right-sided arm sleeve of the jacket.

The jacket further includes a third panel (81) extending from the opposing second shoulder region to the second wrist region and an adjacent fourth panel (83) extending from the opposing upper torso region to the second wrist region, the third and fourth panels (81, 83) being joined together by third (91) and fourth (93) longitudinally-extending stitched seams. In a manner similar to the arm sleeve discussed above, the stitched together panels (81, 83) form an opposing arm sleeve for encompassing the other arm of the person wearing the jacket. In FIG. 9, the enjoined panels (81, 83) are shown encompassing the left-sided arm sleeve of the jacket.

The jacket further includes a fifth panel (84) extending around the lower torso region and covering the upper/lower back region of the wearer, the fifth panel being joined to the first and second panels by a fifth seam and to the third and fourth panels by a sixth seam.

As discussed above, the jacket of this invention has good stretch and waterproof properties. In many conventional jackets, there are numerous seams. Because the fabric of the jacket must be folded under many seams, the fabric does not stretch very well and there is less mobility in these jackets. However, in the jacket of this invention, there is a substantially less amount of seams and the fabric is better able to stretch and bend. The jacket has more mobility and the wearer has better range of motion. Also, in many conventional jackets, the numerous seams, particularly in the shoulder regions, provide areas where rainwater can collect. But, the jacket of this invention has relatively few seams and they are located in selected regions of the jacket. This seam and panel construction helps prevents rain, sleet, and other elements from pooling on the jacket. There are relatively few panels and seams so there are fewer areas where the water can become trapped. Thus, the water is naturally repelled and “runs off” the jacket. In this way, the jacket provides good water repellency.

In particular, the jacket has good resistance to water penetration as measured according to Test Method: JIS L1092:2009, Section 7.1.2—Method B—high hydrostatic pressure test. That is, water does not permeate from outside of the jacket to the inside of the jacket. Preferably, the jacket has greater than 10,000 mm water resistance; more preferably greater than 20,000 mm; and even more preferably greater than 30,000 mm. In one embodiment, the jacket has water resistance in the range of about 10,000 mm to about 40,000 mm. For example, the jacket can have water resistance in the range of about 15,000 mm to about 35,000 mm. In another example, the jacket has water resistance in the range of about 21,000 mm to about 31,000 mm and more specifically about 28,000 mm to about 30,000 mm.

Also, as discussed above, the jacket has good moisture-wicking properties as measured according to Test Method: JIS L1092:2012, Method B-1—potassium acetate method. Water vapor is wicked away from the inside of the jacket to outside of the jacket and this is referred herein as water vapor permeability. Preferably, the jacket has water vapor permeability of greater than 8,000 g/m²/24 hr.; more preferably greater than 10,000 g/m²/24 hr.; and even more preferably greater than 15,000 g/m²/24 hr. In one embodiment, the jacket has water vapor permeability in the range of about 8,000 to about 20, 000 g/m²/24 hr. For example, the jacket can have water protection in the range of about 10,000 to about 18,000 g/m²/24 hr. In another example, the jacket has water protection in the range of about 12,000 to about 15,000 g/m²/24 hr. and more specifically about 14,000 to about 15,000 g/m²/24 hr. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of water resistance to water vapor permeability is about 1.00 to about 1.00 and preferably in the range of about 1.00: 1.00 to about 5.00: 1.00. In one preferred example, the ratio of water resistance to water vapor permeability is about 2.00 to about 1.00. In another example, the ratio of water resistance to water vapor permeability is about 3.00 to about 1.00.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a prior art golf jacket (100) is shown during use in the rain. As will be appreciated, during the typical golf shot stance with the head oriented to look down at the golf ball, a gap will occur between the neck of the golfer and the prior art collar. This gap allows rain drops to fall onto the golfer's neck and drip down their back during the golf shot. This can be disruptive during a golf shot resulting in discomfort for the golfer and/or missed shots during the round. The golfer may become wet, uncomfortable and/or cold during play adversely affecting their game. Thus, an improved collar is desired that will assist in closing this gap that occurs while the golfer is in the typical stance over a golf ball during a round of golf.

Referring to FIG. 11, another embodiment of a golf jacket shell (102) with a collar assembly (104) is shown. This collar assembly (104) includes an outer collar (106) (as described above) and an inner collar (108). Both the inner collar member (108) and outer collar member (106) each have a bottom edge (110). The inner collar (108) and outer collar (106) are preferably joined or sewn together at this bottom edge (110). It will be appreciated that they may be joined in the region near this bottom edge (110) and not necessarily at the bottom edge (110) itself. Additionally, the inner collar (108) and outer collar (106) are preferably joined or sewn together adjacent the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). As described previously, the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104) may be joined together by a zipper (116) to form the collar assembly (104) into a tubular collar shape that is configured to fit around and enclose the neck region of the wearer.

As shown in FIGS. 12-14, preferably the inner collar (108) is made of a folded single piece of fabric with first and second long ends (118) mated to form a loop, and preferably sewn together to form a pocket (120). A cinch cord (122) is positioned within the pocket (120) of the inner collar (108). It will be appreciated that the pocket (120) provided by the inner collar (108) may be formed by having multiple pieces of material sewn together to form the pocket. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the outer collar (106) may also be formed as a loop of material as shown. In FIG. 12, the cinch cord (122) is shown with first and second ends (124, 126) each attached adjacent to the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). The inner collar (108) additionally includes an opening (128), through which a portion of the cinch cord (122) is inserted to make an intermediate loop segment (130) provided adjacent the outer surface (132) (FIG. 14) of the inner collar member (108). A cinch member or slide lock (134), preferably a cord lock, is provided on the intermediate loop segment (130), such that the cinch member (134) can be activated to freely slide along the looped cinch cord (122) to shorten or lengthen the amount of cord provided within the inner collar member pocket (120). In another aspect of the invention, it will be appreciated that the cord has first and second end segments (136, 138) attached to the first and second side ends (112, 114) and an intermediate third segment (140), formed as the intermediate loop segment (130), that extends from the cord lock (134). The first and second segments (136, 138) may be attached by a clip (142) as shown or by any suitable method such as sewing, to the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). The cord lock (134) is used for adjusting the inner collar (108) around the neck region of a wearer as discussed further below. The intermediate third segment (140) that extends through the cord lock (134) can be a relatively large or small intermediate loop segment (130) depending upon how the wearer wants to adjust the collar assembly (104). As shown, a pull member (141) may be provided on the intermediate loop segment (130) to assist in adjusting the size of the intermediate loop segment (130) and preventing the intermediate loop segment (103) from being pulled through or against the cord lock (134).

During use the golfer can easily pull the cinch cord (122) through the cord lock (134) before taking a golf shot when it is raining to lengthen the intermediate loop segment (140) thereby making the intermediate loop segment (130) bigger and reducing the amount of cord (122) within the inner collar (108). This will tighten the inner collar against the golfer's neck region to prevent rain from dripping between the jacket shell (102) and their neck region and down their back. Alternatively, for example after a golf shot has been taken, the golfer may easily move the cord lock (134) on the cinch cord (122) to shorten the intermediate loop segment (140) thereby making the intermediate loop segment (130) smaller and increasing the cinch cord (122) within the pocket (120) of the inner collar (108). This will loosen the inner collar making it more comfortable while walking or riding to their next golf shot or when it is not raining. Although the cinch cord (122) is shown as a single cord, it will be appreciated that the cinch cord may be made of two or more pieces as desired.

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the outer collar (106) is provided with at least one through opening (144) adjacent the bottom edge (110) where it is attached to the inner collar (108) and the top edge (152) of the torso (154) of the jacket shell (102). The opening (144) allows rain caught between the inner and outer collar members (106, 108) to drain from the space between the inner and outer collars. As shown in this embodiment, the outer collar (106) is provided with two through openings (144) near the cord lock (134) on the collar assembly (104). Two additional through openings (144) are provided at the front of the outer collar (106) adjacent the first and second side ends (112, 114). It will be appreciated that preferably at least two openings (144) are provided, and more preferably about four openings (144). As shown, the through openings (144) may be provided with grommets (146). The openings (144) are preferably about 3 mm to about 8 mm in diameter, and more preferably about 5 mm in diameter. It will be appreciated that any number of through openings may be provided on the outer collar (106) to allow any liquid, such as water, caught between the inner and outer collars (106, 108) to pass or drain from the collar assembly (104).

Referring now to FIG. 16, an alternative embodiment of the collar assembly (104) is shown. The inner collar (108) in this embodiment is provided with an elastic band or cord (150) having first and second ends (124, 126). The first and second ends (124, 126) are joined to the first and second collar ends (112, 114) as previously described. The elastic band or cord (150) in the inner collar pocket (120) allows the inner collar (108) to ride against the neck region of a golfer during a golf shot to minimize the gap between the golfer's neck and the inner collar (108) of the jacket shell (102) to keep rain from dripping down the golfer's neck during a golf shot. It will be appreciated that the inner collar (108) is not adjustable in this embodiment. Alternatively, the first and second ends (124, 126) of the elastic band or cord (150) could extend from the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104) and each include a cord lock (134) (not shown) to desirably shorten the elastic band or cord (150) before taking a golf shot, thereby keeping the inner collar (108) against the neck region of the wearer. It will be appreciated that these cord locks may be provided on either the inner or outer surface of the collar assembly (104). It will also be appreciated as shown in FIG. 16 that, as shown, the inner pocket (120) of the inner collar (108) may be formed as previously described. Additionally, the outer collar (106) and inner collar (108) may be formed and joined as previously described. The outer collar (106) may include the through openings (144) as previously described to allow any rain caught between the inner and outer collars (106, 108) to drain away from collar assembly (104) and the neck region of the golfer to keep them dry.

As shown in FIG. 11, in one preferred embodiment, the jacket shell (102) consists of three panels (156, 158, 160) which are joined together by four seams of stitching (162, 164, 166, 168). This unique construction of a jacket shell consisting of three panels and four seams allows the golfer to feel comfortable and move freely while wearing the jacket. In this example, the jacket shell contains a limited amount of panels (three) and seams (four). There are no excess panels or seams that can make the jacket feel heavy and bulky. The jacket is lightweight and allows the golfer to have a high range of motion. The golfer can move his/her torso and arms easily in any direction without getting entangled inside of the jacket. The flexibility of the jacket allows the golfer to bend their arms and move freely even when the jacket is zippered-up. The jacket does not feel bulky or “bunch-up” on the wearer who is walking or making golf shots or engaging in any other activity such as, for example, tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking. It will be appreciated that an additional fourth panel (170) may be included adding a fifth seam (172), this panel may be useful for providing another different color region on the jacket shell (102).

Some golfers walk the entire course during play. Even golfers, who prefer to drive carts, will walk a considerable distance. The jacket of this invention is comfortable and allows a golfer to walk naturally and freely. Also, during normal golf play, a golfer makes shots with a wide variety of clubs. Depending upon the club used, the golfer can place tremendous torque and forces on their body. As the golfer swings a club, their torso rotates and arms bend in various directions. It is important that the golfer has a full range of motion. He or she must be able to move freely and not feel restricted in any way. The golf jacket of the present invention allows a person to move freely so they can play the game more easily. The golf jacket also allows them to play during inclement weather without rain dripping between the jacket collar and their neck during a golf shot. The golfer may easily adjust the inner collar before a golf shot such that they are not disrupted by drips of rain down their neck during shot taking.

It is understood that the jacket materials and constructions described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the invention. It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and additions can be made to materials and structures without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention. It is intended that all such embodiments be covered by the appended claims.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	15806685	Nov 2017	US
Child	16714918		US
Parent	14547186	Nov 2014	US
Child	15806685		US

RAIN JACKET HAVING WEATHER-PROTECTIVE COLLAR

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Continuation in Parts (2)