GB2488417A

GB2488417A - Demountable grips for footwear

Info

Publication number: GB2488417A
Application number: GB1202850.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Junior Paul
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-02-18
Filing date: 2012-02-20
Publication date: 2012-08-29
Also published as: GB201202850D0; WO2012110769A1; GB201102816D0; GB2490093A; EP2675313A1

Abstract

A grip attachment 1 for footwear comprising a body 2 having a heel potion and a forefoot portion linked by a central spine 3 and a plurality of grip retaining elements 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and a plurality of footwear securing elements, including a retaining member 9 for engaging the foot aperture of the footwear. The body may be made of plastics material, and may include stiffened sections. Grip components 12 such as a cleat, stud or spike may be attached to the grip retaining elements, by means of a screw thread. The attachment may be secured to the footwear by use of buckles, hook and loop fasteners, or clip and ratchet fasteners. Adhesive pads may be used to secure the attachment to the footwear.

Description

DEMOUNTABLE FOOTWEAR GRIPS FOR SPORTING ACTIVITIES

Field of the Inventiofl

The present invention relates to grip attachments for footwear and more particularly to demountable footwear grips for attachment to footwear for use during sporting activities.

Background to the Invention

It has been well-appreciated that normal everyday footwear is not suitable for all walking conditions and consequently there exists a wide variety of application specific footwear, for example, hiking boots for walking on rough and broken terrain and sports footwear having cleats, studs or spikes according to the sport being played.

Common adaptations for enhanced grip or to take advantage of the characteristics of the conditions encountered include crampons attached to hiking boots to allow traversing or climbing of ice-covered surfaces and snowshoes attachable most types of footwear which are adapted to spread the weight of the wearer over a wider area thereby allowing the wearer to traverse snow-covered terrain and snowdrifts without sinking excessively.

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*: * The most common solution to providing enhanced grip to footwear is to provide from the outset appropriately shaped patterns cleats or grooves. In the case of work shoes, studs or hard plastics material protrusions arc provided to improve grip and many types of sport footwear have spikes (notably "running spikes"), removable metal studs or moulded plastics material studs, for example, in rugby or soccer boots or patterned moulded cleats adapted for use on specific surfaces, such as artificial grass, cinder or rubberised tarmac.

In the prior art, there are many examples of shoe coverings and grip attachments Exemplary of the different approaches used to address the well-appreciated technical problems associated with lack of grip are the following publications: US Patent No. 3, 229, 389 to Adams describes a gripping attachment for boots adapted to be quickly detachable. The attachment comprises a heel gripping region and a sole gripping region which is adjustably connected to the heel-gripping region via a flexible strap. The heel-gripping region includes a shoe heel-enveloping portion which is secured to the shoe or boot by a strap. The sole gripping region is provided with a toe strap. The ground engaging spikes of each gripping region are constructed by punch-cutting and bending material from the plates from which the regions are formed.

United States Patent Application Publication No. US 2004/0187353 to Qiovale describes a traction system for use on conventional flexible footwear including running shoes and distinguishes that invention from the prior art by reference to the standard crampon adapted to fit to a rigid hiking boot. The crampon of the invention is adapted to fit flexible footwear by providing a flexible linkage between toe and heel gripping regions and individually length-adjustable straps. It will be appreciated by the reader that although the disclosure allows a wearer to use more conventional footwear, the predominant use of crampons remains snow and ice climbing. Although running over mixed terrain is facilitated by the flexible crampon, it is unlikely that the flexible crampon would be acceptable for use on running tracks, maintained parks or for use in sports such as football, where the risk of injury would be unacceptable.. 0sStt

International Patent Publication No. WO 2008/069751 to Vanbestco Scandinavia AB discloses a footwear system comprising a shoe or trainer having a grooved pattern in the sole and a grip unit adapted to fit into the grooved pattern and over s*0 the heel and toe of the modified footwear. The grip unit includes clusters of spikes allowing the footwear to be quickly converted between "running spikes", for example, and ordinary training shoes. Further embodiments of the disclosure illustrate grip units adapted to engage fixing means within the sidewalls of the sole thereby obviating the over-heel and over-toe straps. The primary disadvantage of the arrangements disclosed is that footwear must be modified very specifically to the grip unit and this alone takes away from the convenience S and adaptability required by the majority of users.

There is also a preponderance of grip attachments often referred to as "ice grippers" characterised by an elastomeric body having sole and heel grips or studs and a shaped toe engaging or toe receiving portion and a corresponding heel engaging portion. The gripper is attached to the user's footwear by pulling the heel portion rearwardly from the engaged toe portion to overcome the elastomerie force of the attachment and released to secure the attachment about the heel of the footwear. Typical of such disclosures are United States Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0045190 to Washburn; Japanese Patent Publication No. 9- 313210 to Ocean KK; and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-252106 to Matsumoto, where the grip attachments are secured to the footwear by the resilience of the elastomeric material alone.

These "ice grippers" are aimed primarily at temporarily providing enhanced grip to allow users to walk over short distances, for example, from vehicle to home or office building or to walk to a local store, and are not intended for long distances or rugged terrain. It will be appreciated that any activities that have an element of lateral or sideways force will result in these attachments slipping, twisting or otherwise disengaging from the footwear.

It is a primary object of the present invention to provide an easily adaptable and :. : demountable grip for conventional shoes and particularly for sports footwear, such as trainers, running shoes or plimsolls, for engaging in sporting activities requiring * : enhanced grip normally provided for by sport-specific footwear.

It has been observed that in many instances children who wish to play a game may not have suitable footwear at that time or, if attending school may have forgotten to bring appropriate footwear for a sports period, thereby excluding them from 30 that activity. It is also observed that in disadvantaged areas particularly, the cost of sports specific footwear may preclude some children from certain activities and it is not feasible for a school or other institution to provide correct-sized footwear for a large number of children or to cover a wide number of activities.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to seek to alleviate the above disadvantages and to provide demountable grips for footwear, particularly sports footwear.

In the description that follows, reference to sports footwear should also be taken to include conventional shoes. Although their use is not preferred, it is an inevitable consequence of the problem to be addressed that children will wear whatever footwear is most conveniently available to them rather than with a view to the anticipated activities of the day.

It is however common that runners or trainers are the footwear of choice for children and it is to the situation where football boots (for soccer, rugby or other variations of such games) or other grip-enhanced footwear is forgotten or not available that the present invention is directed.

Summary qf the Inventiofl

In its first aspect, the present invention provides a grip attachment for footwear to enable a wearer to engage in sporting activities, the grip attachment being securable so that it does not slip, twist or otherwise disengage from the footwear to which it is secured during said sporting activities, the grip attachment comprising: I. S a body having a heel region and a forefoot region connected by a linkage 5*5555 * S portion defining a central spine; *0-I * .0 * a plurality of grip retaining elements to support grip components; and **° 25 a plurality of footwear securing elements, including a retaining member * * adapted to engage the foot aperture of said footwear.

Advantageously, the body includes stiffened sections to enhance the rigidity of the grip attachments.

The grip attachment preferably comprises a non-stretchable plastics material adapted to flex along its longitudinal axis so as to conform substantially to the normal flexing of footwear. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that in order to achieve the objectives of the invention, it will be necessary to minimise any lateral or rotational flexing of the grip attachment with respect to the normal flexing of footwear through a step. Thus, by use of stiffening sections or regions of increased thickness or rigidity, lateral or rotational flexing is attenuated to prevent the grip attachment disengaging from the footwear during sporting activities.

One or more of the grip retaining elements may extend laterally from the central spine of the body and include further stiffening sections or torsion elements to prevent the or each grip component on the grip retaining elements from being twisted out of its normally depending in use position.

Ideally, grip components, such as cleats, studs or spikes, are screw-threadingly attached to each of the grip retaining elements so as to facilitate replacement when worn or substitution by another form of grip component. The grip components may be moulded or otherwise integrally formed with the grip attachment or provided as, optionally replaceable, discrete individual components, pairs or sets of components.

Optionally, the grip retaining elements include a reinforcement plate or collar to . : support grip components.

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In an alternative arrangement, the grip retaining elements include apertures for * :* 25 receiving grip components.

In a further arrangement, the grip components are presented in pairs or sets of four *5S*

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or more. I. 4

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Conveniently, the unitary body includes profiled detents or lands for accommodating pairs or sets of grip components.

Advantageously, the pairs or sets of grip components include stiffened seètions to enhance the stability aridior rigidity of the grip attachments.

Additionally, on the footwear engaging upperside of the body there is provided grip or friction means to attenuate or eliminate movement between the grip attachment body and footwear in use.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the footwear securing retaining member is disposed in the foot aperture of the footwear in use and comprises a heel pad retained in place by the wearer's foot.

The linkage portion may be integrally formed with the heel and forefoot regions so as to define a unitary body.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a grip attachment for footwear to enable a wearer to engage in sporting activities, the grip attachment being securable so that it does not slip, twist or otherwise disengage from the footwear to which it is secured during said sporting activities, the grip attachment comprising: a heel region and a forefoot region, each having means for accommodating a plurality of grip components thereon, the heel and forefoot regions each having associated therewith a plurality of footwear securing elements adapted to secure said regions in fixed relation to corresponding heel and forefoot regions of the wearer's footwear, * wherein there is included a retaining member adapted to be retained within :.: the foot aperture of the footwear in use.

Preferably, the heel and forefoot regions of the grip attachment are connected via iS a linkage portion which facilitates flexing between the regions along a central longitudinal axis defined thereby.

Advantageously, the linkage portion and said heel and forefoot regions are integrally formed.

Optionally, the linkage portion includes a locking mechanism which secures the heel and forefoot regions together.

The locking mechanism may include multiple locking sites so as to facilitate adjustable spaced relationship between said heel and forefoot regions.

In one arrangement, linkage portions of differing lengths are provided to facilitate fitting of the grip attachments to a range of sizes of footwear.

Advantageously, the grip components are integrally formed with the grip attachment.

Conveniently, the grip components are presented in pairs or sets of four or more.

Optionally, the heel region and forefoot region include profiled detents or lands for accommodating pairs or sets of grip components.

Where pairs or sets of grip components are provided, stiffened sections to enhance the stability and/or rigidity of the grip attachments may be included.

In another construction, one or more of the footwear securing elements is integrally formed with the grip retaining elements or heel or forefoot regions.

The foot aperture retaining member may be connected along the longitudinal axis 3 of the grip attachment through an extendible element allowing the retaining * 20 member to move sufficiently to accommodate variations during a stepping or running motion. * S * * **

The footwear securing elements may be selected from any one of the known strap * and buckle arrangements, hook and loop fasteners or clip release and ratchet type .5.

* . fasteners. * S

I II

In another construction, the footwear securing elements comprise side fasteners which are adapted to hook over the edges of the footwear overlying the tongue and are held in place by tightening the laces and drawing the edges together over the tongue of the footwear.

Optionally, footwear securing elements include adhesive pads disposable between the grip attachment and the sole of the selected footwear.

A clip receiver may be provided to accept strap-mounted clips secured to the distal ends of selected ones of the laterally extending grip retaining elements or said heel and forefoot regions.

In an alternative arrangement, the clip receiver is a four-way fastener adapted to receive two pairs of footwear securing elements.

Brief Description of the Drawjng

The present invention will now be described more particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of example only, embodiments iS of the grip attachment in accordance with the invention. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a top plan view of the primary embodiment of grip attachment in accordance with the invention; Figures 2a and 2b are a side elevation and top plan view of a ground engaging stud mounting point with friction means; Figures 3a and 3b are detailed elevations of a modified arcuate retaining member; * * Figures 4a and 4d are a perspective front elevation, a top plan view and side * elevations of the grip attachment including means for securing the attachment to the shoe of a wearer; S. SI

I so.

Figures 5a to Sc include top plan views of securing means comprising a friction buckle; Figure 6 is a top plan view of an alternative securing means comprising a four-way clip receiver; Figures 7a and 7b are a top plan view and a detailed plan view of a grip attachment securing means modified for ease of mounting and demounting to the footwear of a user; Figures 8a to 8c are elevations of an alternative means for securing the grip attachments of the invention to footwear; Figure 9 is a top plan view of a second embodiment of grip attachment in accordance with the invention; Figure 10 is a detailed top plan view of a heel region of the grip attachment including a heel pad for placing within the foot aperture of a shoe in use; Figure 11 is a perspective side elevation of a heel region of a shoe with the grip attachment being secured thereto; Figure 12 is a perspective side elevation of a shoe with a grip attachment in place; Figure 13 is a perspective side elevation of a shoe from the underside thereof with grip attachment in place; Figures 14a to 14g are plan views of alternative embodiments of grip attachments and arrangements of grip components presented in pairs and sets of four or more *:* which sit within the grip component retaining elements of the grip attachments; r°: 20 Figures iSa to l5d are a bottom plan view, a side elevation and perspective side elevations from top and bottom, respectively, of a unitary body comprising heel and forefoot regions with an integrated linkage portion which is secured or bonded to a strap system for retaining the body to footwear; los Figure 16 is a perspective side elevation similar to that shown in Figure lSd in which the grip components have been replaced with running spikes or similar; Figures 17a to 17e are a bottom plan view, a side elevation and perspective side elevations from top and bottom of a grip attachment body comprising a forefoot region have a linkage portion which includes a locking mechanism for engaging a receiver located in the heel region; Figures ISa to 1 8d are a bottom perspective side elevation of a grip attachment body comprising heel and forefoot regions connected by a linkage portion having a locking mechanism at each end thereof, a top perspective elevation of the separate components of the attachment body and bottom plan views of the assembled grip attachment body and a range of five linkage portions of differing sizes; Figure 19 is a top plan view of a strap system suitable for use with one or more arrangements of grip attachment body; Figures 20a and 20b are bottom and top perspective side elevations of a grip attachment comprising an attachment body and strap system in accordance with the invention; Figure 21 is a bottom perspective side elevation of a further arrangement of adjustable attachment body including a linkage portion having a locking mechanism engaging a receiver located in the heel region; and Figure 22 is a bottom perspective side elevation of one of a range of sizes of discrete linkage portion having locking tabs located at each end for engaging correspondingly profiled receivers in the heel and forefoot regions. * * S

* Detailed Descrjption of the Preferred Embodiments ****** * S Referring to the drawings and initially to Figure 1, the grip attachment I of the invention comprises a moulded unitary body 2 having a central spine 3 and a plurality of grip retaining elements 5a, Sb; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b extending laterally from 05* thespine3.

The profile of the unitary body 2 is, in the illustrated primary embodiment of the invention, akin to the letter F with a minor reflection positioned back to back along its spine 3 but as will be appreciated from Figure 4a particularly, the overall shape of the grip attachment is reminiscent of a scorpion when the arcuate retaining member or "sting" 9 is taken into consideration. As a consequence, it is the Applicant's intention to market the grip attachments under the trade mark SKORPEUN.

The unitary body 2 optionally includes an integrated skeleton 10 comprising metal or plastics reinforcement to add rigidity to the attachment. The internal skeleton or reinforcements provide torsion control elements to attenuate or minimise lateral or rotational flexing of the grip attachment beyond the longitudinal flexing of footwear though a step. Alternatively, moulded reinforcing ridges (not shown) may be added to the underside of the body 2. Further torsion elements are provided to ensure the grip components are held rigid in their normal downwardly depending positions and not twisted out of position during use. Ideally, the body is formed from a tough flexible plastics material such as a thermoplastics material.

As illustrated, the grip retaining elements 5a, Sb; 6a, 6b; 7a, 7b are provided as opposed pairs extending laterally from the central spine 3. Two pairs of grip retaining elements 5a, Sb; 6a, 6b define the forefoot region or toe end and a normally smaller pair of grip retaining elements 7a, 7b define the heel region adjacent the "sting" 9.

The grip components 12 mounted on the grip retaining elements will be discussed in more detail hereinbelow but may include shaped studs (akin to soccer or rugby football studs) integrally formed or moulded with the unitary body 2.

* Alternatively, where the grips 12 are replaceable, an annular plate 14 defining a * : * . 25 threaded grip receiving aperture iSis formed within the grip retaining elements.

* Additionally and with reference to Figures 2a and 2b, the annular plate 14 includes a roughened upper surface adapted to engage with the sole or heel of the footwear to which the grip attachment is secured. In the illustrated arrangement, * the annular plate 14 defines a ring of upwardly facing spikes 16 to attenuate or * * : 30 eliminate movement between the grip attachment and the footwear when the grip attachment is fixed to a trainer or like footwear in use. Alternatively, double-sided adhesive pads 17 may be positioned on each of the grip retaining elements to aid fixing of the grip attachment to a shoe or trainer.

Figures 3a and 3b illustrate a modified arcuate member or "sting" 9 which comprises an extension of the central spine 3 of the unitary body 2. At the distal or free end of the sting 9, a heel tab 20, adapted to loop into the foot aperture of the footwear and be retained therein at least partially by the wearer's foot, is provided. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the heel tab 20 may include or be attached to a heel plate for securing under the wearer's heel.

Disposed between the sting 9 and the unitary body 2, an extensible section 22 of the sting 9 is adapted to stretch as the wearer steps and the footwear worn bends with each step to accommodate rather than restrict the natural motion between sole and heel. The profile of the extensible section 22 is chosen to facilitate such movement without interfering with the integrity of the unitary form of the grip attachment. It will also be appreciated that the extensible section facilitates fitting the grip attachment to footwear by allowing the sting 9 to be stretched to hook the heel tab 20 into the foot aperture of the footwear after the grip attachment has been secured around the main body of the shoe.

Figures 4a to 4d show an embodiment of grip attachment 1 in accordance with the invention which includes clip release and ratchet type fasteners of the type where a strap element includes a series of teeth adapted to slidingly engage a spring clip buckle defining a pawl which engages the teeth of the strap element. In Figure 4a, an upper shoe element including a cross-member between a pair of straps is positioned over the shoe of user arid the opposing straps are secured in the clip release fasteners by bearing down on the cross-member and upper foot of the wearer. Adjustment or release is achieved by pressing on the clip buckle to release the pawl. In Figure 4b, clip buckles are provided on either side of the straps to facilitate finer adjustment.

Figures 4c and 4d show similar arrangements to those illustrated in Figures 4a and **.

*: * 4b having grip components 12 of differing types, such as removeable studs and sets of running spikes as exemplary of those available. Different grip components are available for particular applications and different surfaces, including "blades" for soccer and stepped profile studs for artificial surfaces, such as Astro Turf (TM).

Figure 5a is a top plan view of a pair of grip attachment straps secured over the upper region of a shoe having a tongue T. The straps are adjustably secured using a traditional form friction buckle B where the free strap of a pair is threaded through the buckle loops and back through the first loop to be held in a friction fit.

Figure 5c illustrates a similar arrangement to that of Figure 5a but with the strap pairs being secured in opposed diagonal pairs with the buckle B being threaded as before with reference to Figure Sb.

Figure 6 illustrates an alternative means for securing the minimal-stretch, grip attachment straps in which each of the straps is terminated with a hook fastener F adapted to engage a four-way clip receiver R. Opposite pairs of straps are brought together towards the clip receiver which is disposed over the upper part of the shoe and the fasteners are clipped into place. To release, a centrally disposed button on the clip receiver is pressed.

In an alternative embodiment of grip attachment, the unitary body 2 has three pairs of grip bearing elements extending laterally from the central spine at the forefoot region and again one pair at the heel region. Each of the forefoot grip bearing elements has a rubberised strap extending over the forefoot region and is moulded integrally with a selected one of the straps extending from the opposite side of one of the forefoot grip bearing elements. A centrally disposed hub member includes a strap guide and may optionally be used as a means for stretching the straps to allow the forefoot region of a trainer or shoe to be constrained therein or released therefrom. As before, the arcuate retaining * * s 25 member or sting includes a heel engaging tab 20, however, in this embodiment, there is also provided additional foot aperture engaging tabs disposed on straps * *: extending from the grip retaining elements at the heel region.

With reference to Figures Sa to Sc, a modification to the securing means for fixing *** *: * the grip attachment to a shoe or trainer includes hook fasteners attached at the forefoot region of the attachment and being adapted to engage the eyelet bearing edges of the footwear. The footwear together with the grip attachment is then secured to the foot of a user by tightening the laces, drawing the eyelet bearing edges together over the tongue, which additionally provides a surface for gripping the hook fasteners and protecting the upper surface of a user's foot. As shown in Figure 8c, protective elements may be added to prevent rubbing between the grip attachment and the surface of the shoe, These elements may also be used to prevent the grip attachment straps digging into the rims of the soles and heels of the footwear worn.

Figure 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of grip attachment in which there is provided a heel region defining a grip bearing plate and a forefoot region between which a flexible spine is attached to allow relative movement of the heel and forefoot regions so as to facilitate the natural motion between sole and heel when a wearer is walking or running.

The heel region includes a pair of straps adapted to extend from the heel over the front of the ankle. The arcuate retaining member or sting includes an enlarged heel tab which is adapted to be retained under the heel of a wearer. As shown in Figure 10, the underheel pad is also connected to a pair of side straps via elasticated sections allowing for a more comfortable fit.

The forefoot region of the grip attachment includes two pairs of side straps as before and an elongate strap adapted to sit over the front of the footwear and to engage with and be secured to the side straps over the tongue and optionally under the laces of the wearer's trainer or shoe, Conveniently, the elongate toe strap is sufficiently long to engage with and loop over the ankle strap of the heel portion as shown in Figure Il.

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*. : 25 Referring now to Figures 12 and 13, a grip attachment having a heel grip region o e and a forefoot grip region, each comprising a grip bearing plate, joined together by a flexible spine, is formed from a tough fabric material including hook and loop fastening sections, for example, Velcro (TM), The grip attachment is S.' * : * . adaptable for a significant range of shoe sizes. The grip attachment facilitates the quick and easy transformation of a conventional shoe or trainer into a temporary solution to allow the wearer participate in sporting activities such as athletics and football without suffering significant loss of grip.

With reference to Figures 14a to 14g, two alternative arrangements of grip attachments are shown in which grip component retaining elements are defined as apertures into which pre-formed pairs or sets of grip components are positioned.

Figure 14c illustrates a pair of grip components mounted on a thermoplastic strip which sits into the heel region and a similar cross-shaped element having a set of four grip components held in spaced-apart relationship to engage corresponding -.e-,.1-..-., .-.# A1+h-h.+ ;ii +,....+ UpLILU1C in ILIC tuiciuOi. icsuxi ut uiC tip ctttat.iiiiicit. fliLUut.gii SLut inuStscucu, shaped detents or lands are provided in the heel and forefoot regions to accommodate the grip component elements, so as to provide a substantially flush surface to the shoe or trainer of the wearer and to provide enhanced stability to the grip attachment.

Figure 14d illustrates a grip component element in which the heel and forefoot grip component elements of Figure 1 4c are connected as a unitary member having a flexible spine therebetween allowing the heel and forefoot grip components to move with the grip attachment when secured to a wearer's shoes. Further unitary sets of grip components are shown in Figures 14e to 14g in which four grip components are provided each for the heel and forefoot regions. Again, a centrally disposed spine or linkage is provided between the grip component regions and, as illustrated in Figure 1 4g, additional tensioning struts or "tendons" can be used to provide additional stability to the grip attachment in use.

*:. Referring now to Figures iSa to lsd, a unitary attachment body is shown * .. *. comprising heel and forefoot regions with an integrated linkage portion. Grip components, in this case studs, may either be integrally moulded with the body or -threadingly engaged in moulded threaded receivers. A void is included in the linkage portion to provide flexibility in the body so as to conform with the normal * * flexing of footwear through a step but attenuating or minimising any transverse tee flexibility. The body includes a plurality of footwear engaging spikes on the upper side thereof to provide friction means to substantially eliminate movement between the attachment body and the engaged surface of the footwear to which it is secured via a strap system (not shown). The body further included stitch holes around the periphery of the heel and forefoot regions arid of the void formed in the linkage portion to secure or aid in the bonding of the unitary body to a strap system for retaining the body to footwear. Ideally, the stitch holes are recessed to protect the stitching thread.

Figure 16 shows a body substantially identical to that shown in Figures 1 5a to 1 5d in which the grip components have been replaced with running spikes or similar.

In Figures 17a to I 7e, a ffirther variation of grip attachment body is shown, comprising a forefoot region have an integrally formed linkage portion which includes, at its distal end, a locking mechanism having a tab for engaging a corresponding receiver located in the heel region. To disengage the locking tab from the receiver, the heel region must be rotated around 90° and lifted with respect to the linkage portion which defines the central spine. The spine includes a number of small cutouts along its length so that the grip attachment may be fitted to either a right or left shoe without affecting the lateral rigidity of the body.

As before, a strap system may be stitched to the body via stitch holes or, with the appropriately configured strap configuration, may be secured by overlying the footwear engaging spikes and threading strap fasteners through corresponding apertures formed adjacent the periphery of the forefoot and heel regions and then secured to the footwear.

Figures iSa to 1 Sd illustrate a further variant of grip attachment body in which the heel and forefoot regions are independently formed and are connected by a * * * linkage portion having locking tabs at each end thereof. This arrangement * : ** 25 facilitates the use of a range of different length linkages so as to accommodate footwear of different sizes. Approximate shoe sizes may be indicated on the appropriate linkage. As before, the locking tabs engage and lock in the corresponding receivers by rotating the linkage portion through 90° with respect to the relevant heel or forefoot region. The linkage provides sufficient leverage to S...

*: .: 30, overcome the resistance to rotation which is build into the locking mechanism by virtue of its shape and configuration.

A possible arrangement of strap system adaptable for use with the grip attachment bodies described hereinabove is shown in Figure 19. The strap system includes a forefoot region and strap elements adapted to secure the forefoot area of a shoe or trainer. A heel region includes a pair of ankle straps and a heel pad formed to lie within the foot aperture of the footwear. The heel pad is connected on three sides to further strap elements (which may include a short elasticated length) which attach the heel pad to the heel region of the strap system.

Figures 20a and 20b illustrate a grip attachment in accordance with the invention, comprising an attachment body and strap system. In this arrangement, the heel pad is retained on an arcuate element which positions the heel pad under the heel of the wearer.

Figure 21 shows a further arrangement of adjustable attachment body in which a linkage portion having a locking mechanism is integrally formed with the forefoot region and the corresponding heel region is provided with a plurality of receiver sites, each comprising three receiver holes for the locking tabs.

Finally, an alternative construction of linkage portion is illustrated having a set of four tabs arranged on each of its profiled ends. Although the forefoot and heel regions are not shown in Figure 22, it will be appreciated from the foregoing how such an arrangement might be realised.

It will be apparent in the arrangements where the linkage portion is integrally formed with the forefoot region, the alternative arrangement, where the linkage portion is integrally formed with the heel region, is not outside the scope of the * * invention. Similarly where relative movement is described, the element or ** component described as static may be interchanged with the corresponding movable one and visa versa. ** * * * * * **

In many instances, configurations are illustrated or described in a particular way * ** as they confer certain advantages, for example, hook and loop fasteners overlie S...

*. . one another in a direction which prevents snagging. Materials selected are chosen * : for longevity and ease of cleaning.

Given the preponderance of prior art directed to ice gripper type attachments and the securing of the attachiTlents by virtue of the elastomeric properties of the materials used, it should be readily appreciated that present invention and its applications in sporting activities is far removed from the teaching of the S referenced disclosures. Although the grip attachments of the present invention may also be suitable for walking in icy conditions, the known ice grippers cannot be used for sporting activities. Due to the amount of lateral and twisting forces experienced during sporting activities (it has been estimated that in some school sports, the forces applied through footwear may exceed 7 times the force of gravity) the known ice gripper attachments would at least dislodge, if not fall off or be destroyed.

Additionally, the grip attachments of the present invention are formed using well-established materials and grip shapes for sports, such as cleats, studs and running spikes and therefore do not introduce potentially problematic features into sporting, and particularly school sporting, activities.

It will of course be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein, which are given by way of example only, and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. S. * * is * ** *

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Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A grip attachment for footwear to enable a wearer to engage in sporting activities, the grip attachment being securable so that it does not slip, twist or otherwise disengage from the footwear to which it is secured during said sporting activities, the grip attachment comprising: a body having a heel region and a forefoot region connected by a linkage portion defining a central spine; a plurality of grip retaining elements to support grip components; and a plurality of footwear securing elements, including a retaining member adapted to engage the foot aperture of said footwear.
2. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 1, in which the body includes stiffened sections to enhance the rigidity of the grip attachments.
3. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which the grip attachment comprises a non-stretchable plastics material adapted to flex along its longitudinal axis so as to conform substantially to the non-nal flexing of footwear.
4. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which one or more of the grip retaining elements extend laterally from the central spine of the body and include further stiffening sections or torsion elements to prevent the or each grip component on the grip retaining elements from being twisted out of its normally depending in use position.
5. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which grip components, such as cleats, studs or spikes, are screw-threadingly attached to each of the grip retaining elements so as to facilitate replacement when worn or substitution by another form of grip component.

* 25
6. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the grip retaining elements include a reinforcement plate or collar to support grip components.
7. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4, in which the grip retaining elements include apertures for receiving grip components.
8. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 7, in which the grip components are presented in pairs or sets of four or more.
9. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 7 or Claim 8, in which the body includes profiled detents or lands for accommodating pairs or sets of grip components.
10. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 8 or Claim 9, in which the pairs or sets of grip components include stiffened sections to enhance the stability and/or rigidity of the grip attachments,
11. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which on the footwear engaging upperside of the body there is provided friction means to attenuate or eliminate movement between at least the grip attachment and footwear in use.
12. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which said footwear securing retaining member is disposed in the foot aperture of the footwear in use and comprises a heel pad retained in place by the wearer's foot.
13. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the linkage portion is integrally formed with the heel and forefoot regions so as to * define a unitary body.* ** .** * * * :* :
14. A grip attachment for footwear to enable a wearer to engage in sporting activities, the grip attachment being securable so that it does not slip, twist or otherwise disengage from the footwear to which it is secured during said sporting **** activities, the grip attachment comprising: 0 * * * * * 0 a heel region and a forefoot region, each having means for accommodating a plurality of grip components thereon, the heel and forefoot regions each having associated therewith a plurality of footwear securing elements adapted to secure said regions in fixed relation to corresponding heel and forefoot regions of the wearer's footwear, wherein there is included a retaining member adapted to be retained within the foot aperture of the footwear in use.
15. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 14, in which the heel and forefoot regions of the grip attachnient are connected via a linkage portion which facilitates flexing between the regions along a central longitudinal axis defined thereby.
16. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 15, in which the linkage portion and said heel and forefoot regions are integrally formed.
17. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 15, in which the linkage portion includes a locking mechanism which secures the heel and forefoot regions together.
18. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 17, in which the locking mechanism includes multiple locking sites so as to facilitate adjustable spaced relationship between said heel and forefoot regions.
19. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 17 or Claim 18, in which linkage portions of differing lengths are provided to facilitate fitting of the grip attachments to a range of sizes of footwear. 0 *20. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which S.....* the grip components are integrally formed with the grip attachment. *5 S * . .* 21. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the grip components are presented in pairs or sets of four or more. *0*0*:*. 25 22. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of Claims 14 to 21, in which the heel region and forefoot region include profiled detents or lands for accommodating pairs or sets of grip components.23. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 21 or Claim 22, in which the pairs or sets of grip components include stiffened sections to enhance the stability and/or rigidity of the grip attachments.24. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which one or more of the footwear securing elements is integrally formed with the grip retaining elements or heel or forefoot regions.25. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 24, in which the foot aperture retaining member is connected along the longitudinal axis of the grip attachment through an extendible element allowing the retaining member to move sufficiently to accommodate variations during a stepping or running motion.26. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the footwear securing elements may be selected from any one of the known strap and buckle arrangements, hook and loop fasteners or clip release and ratchet type fasteners.27. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 25, in which the footwear securing elements comprise side fasteners which are adapted to hook over the edges of the footwear overlying the tongue and are held in place by tightening the laces and drawing the edges together over the tongue of the footwear.28. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which footwear securing elements include adhesive pads disposable between the grip * ***** 4 S attachnent and the sole of the selected footwear. 4 * 55 * S.29. A grip attachment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which a clip receiver is provided to accept strap-mounted clips secured to the distal ends 5SS* of selected ones of the laterally extending grip retaining elements or said heel and * ** forefoot regions.30. A grip attachment as claimed in Claim 29, in which the clip receiver is a four-way fastener adapted to receive two pairs of footwear securing elements.31. A grip attachment substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings. * * * *tI*I *s* * I * I * * I. * I* *1ISI I... I. S * SS SI