An age old school tradition could be brought to an end by eight-year-old twins from Ohio who claim to have come up with pants which are wedgie proof. Justin & Jared Serovich, the pants inventors, call them the "Rip Away 1000".
The twins won an Ohio design competition, which lead to an invitation to appear on-Ellen De Generes Show and world wide fame for their invention. The basic premise is that they boxers are held together with fasteners at the seams - so in the event of an attempted wedgie situation they are ripped off. The intended victim left without pants and the bully left with pants in his or her hand.
What I love about this trend is no not much the invention (are pants that get ripped off really preferable to a wedgie?) but the way two eight year old boys have made news around the world with their simple invention. Something which companies spend millions a year trying to achieve! Check them out in this video of their appearance on Fox news - they are SO adorable which of course could add to the appeal :-)
Check out the original post on the Ellen DeGeneres feature:
Wedgie-Proof Undies
Bully-Proof "Rip Away 1000" (UPDATE)
Trend Themes
1. Wedgie-proof Undies - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing durable and secure underwear solutions that eliminate the discomfort and embarrassment of wedgies.
2. Bully-proof Clothing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating clothing with innovative fasteners or designs that prevent bullying incidents like wedgies.
3. Child Inventors - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Supporting and nurturing young inventors to bring fresh and creative ideas to the market.
Industry Implications
1. Apparel - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Reinventing underwear and clothing designs to enhance comfort, functionality, and protection.
2. Childhood Education - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrating innovation and problem-solving into educational programs to encourage young inventors.
3. Entertainment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Exploring opportunities to showcase and promote inventions by young entrepreneurs through media platforms and shows.