Abstract:
Lacing systems are disclosed for use with footwear or other articles. The lacing system can comprises flexible webbing lace guides. In some embodiments, a lace guide can include a first lace guide element and a second lace guide element. The lace can pass through the first and second lace guides consecutively on the first side of the article before crossing to the opposing side of the article. The first and second lace guide elements can be angled towards each other to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide elements. In some embodiments, the lace guide can have a central portion that is less flexible than the end portions so as to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide when tension is applied to the lace.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing an improved lacing system having a clasp with an anchoring end and a lace end, where the lace end is adapted to hold a lace. An anchoring end is also included having a first part and a second part where the first and second parts are movable away from and toward one another. The closing mechanism also has a receiver with a first receptacle and a second receptacle for engaging the first and second parts, respectively, and wherein the clasp is removably joinable to the receiver when the first and second parts are engaged with the first and second receptacles and, when the first and second parts are disengaged with the first and second receptacles, the clasp is separable from the receiver.
Abstract:
A device for independently connecting a plurality of eyelets together by lacing with a lace. The device has a plate with a hook for hooking and unhooking the plate from one of the eyelets. A flap is connected to the plate and one end of the flap extends beyond the hook and the plate, to form a handle allowing a user to grip the device, and then hook and unhook the hook from the eyelet. Another end of the flap is connected to a ring which defines an opening through which the lace can pass. In this way the lace can be connected and disconnected from the eyelet without having to thread and unthread the lace from the eyelet.
Abstract:
Lacing systems are disclosed for use with footwear or other articles. The lacing system can include flexible webbing lace guides. A lace guide can include a first lace guide element and a second lace guide element. The lace can pass through the first and second lace guides consecutively on the first side of the article before crossing to the opposing side of the article. The first and second lace guide elements can be angled towards each other to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide elements. The lace guide can have a central portion that is less flexible than the end portions so as to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide when tension is applied to the lace.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing an improved lacing system having a clasp with an anchoring end and a lace end, where the lace end is adapted to hold a lace. An anchoring end is also included having a first part and a second part where the first and second parts are movable away from and toward one another. The closing mechanism also has a receiver with a first receptacle and a second receptacle for engaging the first and second parts, respectively, and wherein the clasp is removably joinable to the receiver when the first and second parts are engaged with the first and second receptacles and, when the first and second parts are disengaged with the first and second receptacles, the clasp is separable from the receiver.
Abstract:
A process for lacing shoes, for use with any shoe with lace-holes and any shoelace. The process results in shoelaces that follow a path that describes a double-helix, resulting in reduced friction and faster and easier tightening and loosening.
Abstract:
Footwear comprising a sole, an upper, and a lace-binding system comprising a plurality of replaceable eyelet extenders. Replacing eyelet extenders, or components thereof, with others of a different color facilitates switching footwear from one color pattern to another. Replacing eyelet extenders, or components thereof, with others of a different length, flexibility, or elasticity facilitates modifying flexibility between eyelets and lace.