Abstract: An upper for an article of footwear may include an adjustable tensioning cable and a knitted component. The knitted component may include inlaid strands having exposed portions exposed on the surface of a knit element. A channel for receiving the tensioning cable is formed between the exposed portions and the surface of the knit element, where the tensioning cable extends through the channel.

Abstract: An injected footwear with internal complex graphic is a footwear apparatus that also is an easily manufacturable product. The footwear apparatus includes a sole, an upper, at least one complex graphic, and a sock liner. The sole is below the wearer's foot, while the upper covers the rest of the wearer's foot. The complex graphic integrates an aesthetically pleasing element for the footwear apparatus. The sock liner is used as an intermediate between the wearer's foot and the rest of the footwear apparatus. The complex graphic is internalized in between the sock liner and the upper. The upper and the sole are specifically made of the injectable molding material. A proximal portion of the sock liner is attached to the complex graphic, while the injectable molding material is bonded to a surrounding portion of the sock liner.

Abstract: An article of footwear may include an upper with an outer layer, an inner layer, and a chamber element positioned at least partially between the outer layer and the upper layer. The chamber element may be formed of two layers of a transparent colored polymer material and may be sealed to enclose a fluid. The chamber element may also have a plurality of subchambers. The outer layer may have a plurality of apertures. Each subchamber may protrude at least partially through a corresponding one of the apertures.

Abstract: An article of footwear and a method of manufacturing the same is provided. The article comprises an upper having an inner layer and an outer layer coupled to the inner layer, such that the inner layer and the outer layer define a closed pocket therebetween. An insert is disposed in the closed pocket. The outer layer is formed of an at least partially transparent material, such that the insert is at least partially visible through the outer layer. The method comprises placing the insert in a recess defined by the outer layer of the upper, such that the insert abuts an inner surface of the outer layer and positioning the inner layer on the inner surface of the outer layer over the recess and the insert, such that the inner layer and outer layer form the closed pocket at the recess with the insert disposed within the closed pocket.

Abstract: A cowboy boot includes a front and a back shaft each having an inner lining and a cut out formed through each of the front and back shafts, a pocket formed by each of the inner linings of the front and back shafts and positioned adjacent to a cut out, the pockets configured to receive an insert therein with at least a portion of the insert exposed through the cutout and an insert received in each of the pockets with at least a portion of the insert exposed through the cut out.

Abstract: A color change system for an article with a color change portion and a method of changing color is disclosed. The article includes at least one color change portion capable of changing colors. The color change portion can change colors according to one or more performance parameters. The color change system can include a computer or a mobile device. The article can be connected to the computer or the mobile device and the color change portion can be controlled using the computer or mobile device.

Abstract: A system and method for connecting advertising to footwear is disclosed. The system can comprise a curved rod member, a sheet, and an advertisement. The curved rod member can be mountable above a welt of a footwear. The sheet material can comprise a first curved surface and a horizontal track along the sheet, wherein the horizontal track can connect the sheet material to the curved rod member, and the advertisement can be on the convex side of the sheet material.

Abstract: A biometric monitoring device and multiple carrying cases for same are provided. In some implementations, the case may be made from a flexible viscoelastic material and the biometric monitoring device may be slipped into a receptacle in the case through an opening in the case; the opening may become distended during the insertion of the biometric monitoring device. In some implementations, the case may feature a display window that, in combination with materials of the biometric monitoring device, may mask a display of the biometric monitoring device from view when the display is off and may allow the display to be seen when the display is displaying content.

Abstract: An interchangeable graphic display system of method of using same, in conjunction with an in-line skate, roller-skate and ice-skate chassis, wherein the system includes a graphic display apparatus having a first and second layer, wherein each layer is attachable by a separate mounting means, and wherein the system enables an individual to display and replace different pictorial and graphic representations during operation of in-line skates, roller-skates and ice-skates.

Abstract: An interchangeable graphic display system of method of using same, in conjunction with an in-line skate frame, wherein the system includes a graphic display apparatus having a first and second layer, wherein each layer is attachable by a separate mounting means, and wherein the system enables an individual to display and replace different pictorial and graphic representations during operation of in-line skates.

Abstract: A system and method for connecting advertising to footwear is disclosed. The system can comprise a curved rod member, a sheet, and an advertisement. The curved rod member can be mountable above a welt of a footwear. The sheet material can comprise a first curved surface and a horizontal track along the sheet, wherein the horizontal track can connect the sheet material to the curved rod member, and the advertisement can be on the convex side of the sheet material.

Abstract: An ornamental device for footwear of the type having a plurality of eyelets for a shoelace. The ornamental device comprises a mini bungee cord to engage with two opposite eyelets of the footwear. A decorative component is provided. A mechanism is for removably retaining the decorative component to center of the mini bungee cord.

Abstract: Attaching a three-dimensional ornamental article to a shoe upper is achieved using a stiff elongated strip that is bent to form an arcuate upper portion and a J-shaped lower portion. The upper portion is fitted to follow the contours of the top and sides of the ornamental article, while the lower portions are inserted through spaced openings formed in the shoe upper. The bottom ends of the lower portions face each other when they are positioned between the insole and outsole of the shoe. Once the outsole is secured with the insole, the ornamental article becomes securely attached to the shoe.

Abstract: An article, such as a towel, having an opening to secure a twirling mechanism thereto. The twirling mechanism having a handle extending from a bottom portion thereof and having a mechanism to permit rotating of the handle with respect to the fabric-article, such that the fabric article is capable of twirling around the twirling mechanism. The twirling mechanism may in other embodiments include noise maker when the handle is rotated.

Abstract: There is provided a tag for attachment to a shoe having shoelaces. The shoe is a standard laced shoe having a pair of opposing retainers which are configured to be secured together by a shoelace threaded through a plurality of lace passages formed on the opposing retainers. The tag includes a web having an upper and lower edge and a plurality of lace retainers configured to receive the shoelace there through. At least one lace retainers is formed on the web adjacent each of the upper and lower edges of the web. The web is dimensioned to permit the tag to be attached between the opposing retainers by threading the shoelace through the lace retainers. The web is further dimensioned to fit between the lace passages of the opposing retainers. The lace retainers preferably consist of grommets and the web is preferably a flexible web having four corners with a grommet positioned adjacent each of the corners. The tag has a display surface upon which an insignia is displayed.

Abstract: The technology disclosed herein provides a device that is a shoelace attachment which exhibits removable indicia and is comprised of a unitary upper and a lower portion that non-permanently engage to one another forming a portal adapted for passage of a shoelace. The shoelace attachment further comprises recesses on the upper portion and protrusions on a display base, where the protrusions are adapted for removable engagement with the recesses and the display base exhibits indicia, so that the shoelace attachment exhibits indicia on a laced shoelace without the requirement of unlacing.

Abstract: A lace for a shoe having a tongue and horizontal pairs of shoelace holes and for displaying a message over the tongue of the shoe and between the horizontal pairs of shoelace holes of the shoe. The lace includes a plurality of display portions. The plurality of display portions are spaced-apart from each other and carry the message directly thereon, with each display portion carrying a specifically ordered portion of the message, thereby when the lace is threaded through the horizontal pairs of shoelace holes of the shoe, each display portion is disposed over the tongue of the shoe and between a respective horizontal pair of shoelace holes of the shoe, thereby making the message clearly visible and properly formatted.

Abstract: Footwear having plastic or rubber soles and having molded protruding hang tabs from the soles for use in the pairing of footwear together. Each sole having a plurality of protruding hang tabs molded at spaced-apart positions along a perimeter edging of the sole. The plurality of hang tabs includes a first hang tab positioned on the toe end of the sole, a second hang tab positioned on the heel end of the sole, a third hang tab positioned on the inside section of the sole, and/or a fourth hang tab positioned on the outside section of the sole. One or more of the hang tabs have plastic fasteners and the like attached thereto for connecting a pair of the soles together. The hang tabs are being removable from the soles after purchase by cutting off each hang tab from the perimeter edging of the sole.

Abstract: An article of clothing insert system which has a perimeter mounting member which is configured to have inserts be positioned therein and mounted on articles of clothing. The inserts can be replaceable by way of positioning therein an annular recess portion.

Abstract: A personal identification tag engraved or printed with information such as emergency contact numbers or bearer's name and address which may be molded to the contour of clothing such as the heel of a shoe and adhered to the exterior, typically the rear exterior portion of the shoe or the heel section.

Abstract: An apparel mounted picture securing and displaying apparatus is provided having a lower support member with a corner attachment orifice formed at each corner point. An upper frame element forming a transparent retention means within an outer perimeter is attached to the lower support member.

Abstract: A shoe mounted emergency identification information carrying assembly and method are provided. In a preferred embodiment, one or more members are provided to loop around shoe components such as the shoe tongue, laces, latches, or the like. The one or more members are preferably affixed together to form a looping member that can be inserted underneath the shoe components and then over the shoe components. In one embodiment, the one or more members may be affixed together at an overlap region such that the opposite sides of the overlap region are secured and the inner portion thereof can be opened to receive or loop around one or more shoe components, straps, or buckles. At least one fastener is also provided to fix the looping member in position around the shoe components by forming a closed loop. An interior surface of the looping member is not visible once the closed loop is formed and a detailed emergency identification information label is positioned there.

Abstract: A shoe mounted emergency identification information carrying assembly and method are provided. In a preferred embodiment, one or more members are provided to loop around shoe components such as the shoe tongue, laces, latches, or the like. The one or more members are preferably affixed together to form a looping member that can be inserted underneath the shoe components and then over the shoe components. In one embodiment, the one or more members may be affixed together at an overlap region such that the opposite sides of the overlap region are secured and the inner portion thereof can be opened to receive or loop around one or more shoe components, straps, or buckles. At least one fastener is also provided to fix the looping member in position around the shoe components by forming a closed loop. An interior surface of the looping member is not visible once the closed loop is formed and a detailed emergency identification information label is positioned there.

Abstract: A system and shoe for determining the fit of a shoe from outside the shoe wherein the shoe has an outsole that has a reference gauge for placing a person's heel and a reference mark indicating how far a person's toes should extend so that the shoe would fit. The system is adaptable so a decal may be used or a separate foot measurement guide such as a hang tag may be attached to a shoe where the visual fit guide depicted on the hang tag corresponds to the size of the shoe to which it is applied. The hang tag may be printed on both sides to correspond to both a left and right foot.

Abstract: An apparel mounted picture securing and displaying apparatus is provided having a lower support member with a corner attachment orifice formed at each corner point. An upper frame element forming a transparent retention means within an outer perimeter is attached to the lower support member.

Abstract: A personalized message tag attached to the laces of a shoe bearing on the front visible surface the introductory portion of a desired phrase and having a non-visible rear surface that the wearer can inscribe a completing portion the desired phrase. The tags are provided with a discrete color for each separate introductory portion of the desired phrase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to articles of clothing and footwear and more particularly to an insertable patch or emblem which fits under the overlapping layer of a pocket formed in the article of clothing or footwear. The patch or emblem and the pocket in the article include releasable attachment means.

Abstract: A method for making a decal structure includes the steps of: (a) providing a base paper having a top face and a bottom face; (b) printing a pattern on the top face of the base paper; (c) providing a looped spacing polymeric coating on the top face of the base paper around the pattern; (d) cutting the base paper into a dimension slightly greater than that of the looped spacing polymeric coating; (e) infusing a polyester into the looped spacing polymeric coating so as to form a transparent outer layer covering the pattern in the looped spacing polymeric coating (22); and (f) cooling the polyester to cure so as to form a final decal structure, wherein the decal structure includes a base paper having a top face and a bottom face, a pattern printed on the top face of the base paper, a looped spacing polymeric coating coated on the top face of the base paper around the pattern and having an inner edge and an outer edge, and a transparent outer layer mounted in the inner edge of the looped spacing polymeric coating

Abstract: The invention relates a decorative shoe shield suitable for detachable positioning on an article of footwear and for securing thereto by shoelaces. The top surface of the shoe shield is adapted for receiving decorative indicia imprinted thereon. A plurality of openings formed in the body of the shoe shield or in fastener strips securely connected to the flexible body allow securing of the shoe shield to the shoe by shoelaces. The fastener elements can be formed as separate L-shaped or hook-shaped members securely attached to the shield body, or as unitary strips secured along side edges of the body, or formed directly in the body of the decorative attachment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to articles of clothing and footwear and more particularly to an insertable patch or emblem which fits under the overlapping layer of a pocket formed in the article of clothing or footwear. The patch or emblem and the pocket in the article include releasable attachment means.

Abstract: The shoe incorporates adjustable straps that are positioned to tighten the shoe casing around a wearer's instep. A retractor mechanism incorporates elastic members. The elastic members are charged when the wearer loosens shoe by pulling on the straps. The stored energy is released when a catch is released releasing the elastic members to tighten and cinch the shoe on the wearer's foot. During charging a first elastic member is extended an intermediate distance and a second elastic member is charged a greater distance. The second elastic member triggers the release of the first elastic member when it reaches the intermediate position, increasing the tension available for cinching the straps.

Abstract: A display unit such as a digital or analog watch is held in a wedge-shaped member to the top of footwear by a second tongue held, for example, with hook and loop fasteners, to the top of a sneaker or shoe. In another embodiment, the display unit can be held to the top of footwear by the laces of the footwear, which are threaded through a series of pairs of openings in the bottom of the display holder.

Abstract: This invention modifies nearly any form of apparel, including baseball-style hats, by incorporating a portion of magnetic material into the article of apparel which allows for releasable attachment of a plurality of magnetic-based display panels.

Abstract: A self-sufficient, blinking-light LED device formed by a decoratively-shaped casing having a LED projecting from its face, the casing being attachable to the shoe of an individual or elsewhere on his person whereby as the individual walks or jogs, the resultant changes in velocity cause the LED to be intermittently activated to create strobe light effects which attract attention. Housed in the casing is a D-C power source connected through an acceleration-sensitive make-and-break switch to the short leads of the LED, one of which forms the fixed contact of the switch. The movable contact is defined by a cantilevered flat spring having a weight attached to its free end. A change in velocity causes the spring contact to flex to momentarily engage the fixed contact to close the switch and activate the LED.

Abstract: A personal information packet to be carried by a child or other person to provide identification and relevant information to authorities in the event of an emergency comprises a folded information card bearing personal information on the shielded inwardly folded side of the card sealed within a transparent plastic envelope to secure the card against outward view of the personal information and against unauthorized removal of the card without breaching the sealed integrity of the envelope. A notice is printed on the outward side of the card to alert authorities that personal information is contained within the packet and a broken line shows authorities where to cut open the packet without obliterating the information.

Abstract: A fluid filled amusement or attention attracting article for attachment to footwear is comprised of at least one fluid filled chamber secured to the exterior of the footwear. The fluid filled chamber is constructed of a flexible transparent material and contains a fluid that is visible from the exterior of the chamber. The liquid is brightly colored and serves as an attention attracting device for attracting the attention of motorists to a pedestrian wearing the shoe employing the article. The fluid filled chamber also serves as an amusement device where the fluid contained in the chamber is caused to flow through the chamber by manipulation of the flexible chamber sidewalls and the flow of fluid is both visible and sensed by touch.

Abstract: An article of footwear for imprinting personalized messages on a ground surface below, comprising: a flexible lower sole which is adapted to flex continually in use and including an elongated recessed track extending generally longitudinally of said lower sole, said track having closed ends and formed, longitudinally extending and spaced apart insert engaging portions; a plurality of adjoining separate, generally rectangular inserts each having a surface with a symbol, and a pair of generally parallel side portions with respective, opposed outer surfaces which are cooperable with said insert engaging portions, respectively; and said inserts being received into said recessed track with only said opposed outer surfaces engaging said insert engaging portions of said recessed track, respectively, in a manner that said inserts are retained in said recessed track by only partial perimeteral engagement of said inserts therewith throughout said flexing of said lower sole in use.

Abstract: A personal identification tag (10) for notation of name, address, medical information, etc. which may be installed inside the shoe of the user. During installation the paper layer (720) may be filled with identification data by the user, the adhesive protective layer (712) may be peeled off and the clear plastic layer (710) may be pressed over the paper layer (720) and held in place by the clear adhesive layer (711) thereby creating a protected notational strip. The second adhesive protective layer (722) may be peeled off and the identification strip (10) may be placed inside a shoe by the user being held in place by an adhesive layer (721). The second adhesive protective layer (722) may be enlarged to form an extension (723) upon which instructions for installation and use of the identification tag (10) may be printed.

Abstract: A urination station with a pair of foot mats straddling a urinal basin. Each mat accommodates a foot at a height from the floor which discourages the user from stepping partially on a mat and partially on the floor. Each mat has an adhesive layer which fixes it in position on the floor.

Abstract: A system and method for enabling a small child to easily and reliably place his shoes on the correct feet. At least one of the toenails from the child's right foot is painted with a first color from a first bottle of paint, and at least one of the toenails from the child's left foot is painted with a second, contrasting color from a second bottle of paint. A stick-on label having said first color is removed from a first paper strip and applied to the inside of the child's right shoe above the heel thereof, and a stick-on label having said second color is removed from a second paper strip and applied to the inside of the child's left shoe above the heel. The child then matches his right shoe to his right foot, each being marked with the first color and his left shoe to his left foot, each being marked with the second color.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to the field of identification devices. Embodiments include a shoelace, near the center of which is affixed a flexible strip, made from textile, plastic, or other suitable material, that is adapted to be wrapped about the shoelace and retained in that position. Desired information, such as name, address, telephone number, blood type, medical facts of special concern, or the like, may appear on the surface of the strip which is to be concealed by the strip having been overlaid by itself as it is wrapped about the shoelace. The strip, so marked and so positioned, may be surrounded by a protective cover material, such as a short, tubular segment of clear plastic, to protect the strip while keeping the distinguishing indicia visible. Such protective cover and/or the surface of the strip which is exposed when the strip is so wrapped may include distinguishing indicia to notify interested persons, such as police, medical workers, etc., of the existence of the enclosed information.

Abstract: An attachment for shoe laces and the like that, singularly or when combined with a plurality of the same, is capable of displaying a decorative design or personalized message on a shoe.

Abstract: An identification system for mounting on the outer surface of the tongue of footwear and beneath the laces, flap, or other device used for fastening the footwear to the wearer. It is intended primarily for young children or incompetent adults and comprises a tubular member of pliable, liquid impermeable material defining an internal compartment with a closure mechanism to isolate the internal compartment from ambient conditions and substantially prevent entry of water and other substances. Vital information concerning the wearer may be placed in the compartment and is accessible when necessary but is not visible to the casual observer. Provision is made for temporary mounting and for permanent mounting of the tubular member to the tongue of the footwear.

Abstract: An identification member adapted to be secured to shoes having laces or straps includes an integrally formed carrier of synthetic resin having a base and a cover which are hingedly connected along one side margin thereof. The base provides a cavity in which is seated an identification element, and the cover and base have interfitting side walls which engage in the closed position. Depending from the bottom wall of the base is a U-shaped engagement loop through which a shoelace or strap passes to secure the carrier to the top of the shoe.

Abstract: A thong sandal having a sole fastened to the foot of a wearer by means of an instep strap and a toe tab connected to the sole and latched in the instep strap. The sole and instep strap are made from a flat sheet of material which is flexible and provides a comfortable support when walking of a size and shape to fit under the wearer's foot. The instep strap is partially cut away from the sole around the hee but remains attached to the sole on opposite sides of the instep. It is adapted to fold upward and forward and to latch on the toe tab. The toe tab is formed of a durable material which does not break during normal wear and has a protuberance at its free end distal its attachment to the sole for use as a display surface or it latches to the sole at the toe end such that the sandle folds substantially flat or both. The display surface can be customized to the customer's specifications and the protuberance is advantangeously attached to the stem of the toe tab on what is otherwise a stock sandal.

Abstract: A personal identification tag for notation of name, address, medical information, etc. which may be installed in side the shoe of the user. During distribution the paper layer made up of a notational part and a border on the edges of the notational part are attached by an adhesive layer to a clear plastic overlay. The backing of the paper layer is removable from the adhesive layer. During installation, the boarder is removed from the tag and discarded. The notational part of the tag is positioned in an accessible part of the shoe or other article. The notational part of the tag is protected from wear and moisture and hold in place by the clear plastic overlay and the adhesive layer.

Abstract: A personal identification tag for notation of name, address, medical information, etc. which may be installed inside the shoe of the user. During distribution the paper layer made up of a notational part and a border on the edges of the notational part are attached by an adhesive layer to a clear plastic overlay. The backing of the paper layer is removable from the adhesive layer. During installation, the boarder is removed from the tag and discarded. In another embodiment, the paper layer serves as a backing to a notational strip as well as a overlay portion, both having an adhesive layer. The surface of the notational strip opposite the adhesive layer may have an opaque layer added to accept writing of identification data. For either configuration, the notational part of the tag is positioned in an accessible part of the shoe or other article. The notational part of the tag is protected from wear and moisture and held in place by the clear plastic overlay and the adhesive layer.

Abstract: The present invention is a shoe comprising a quarter panel over a part of which an outer material is secured so as to form a frame or opening positioned at the side of the shoe. An insert, such as a design or logo, is reversibly secured within said frame by a pressure sensitive adhesive. The insert is further held in place by a flexible lip formed by the outer material which overlaps the edges of the insert material.

Abstract: This identifying device is attached to a portion of an article such as a shoe and includes a retainer having a flanged base and raised peripheral walls defining at least one socket. Identifying elements having the same configuration as the sockets are removably snap-fitted into the sockets. The shoe portion includes attached upper and lower plies of material, the upper ply having openings receiving the peripheral walls and overlying the flanged base to hold the retainer in place.