Abstract: Method and apparatus directed to cushioned concave pads, cushioned traction pads, and/or grip tape for self-balancing vehicles. The method and apparatus includes front cushioned pads and/or front cushioned traction pads having top surfaces and bottom surfaces; attaching the bottom surfaces of the front cushioned pads and/or the front cushioned traction pads to a first deck portion disposed at a first end of a frame; selecting rear cushioned pads and/or rear cushioned traction pads having top and bottom surfaces. The top surfaces of the rear cushioned pads and/or rear cushioned traction pads can have a rear kicktail extending integrally upwardly and rearwardly. The method and apparatus further include attaching the bottom surfaces of the rear cushioned pads and/or the rear cushioned traction pads to a second deck portion disposed at a second end of the frame.

Abstract: A man overboard system may comprise a strap system allowing for the rescue of a subject who is in a horizontal position. A strap system may comprise a loop 830 with an end of the loop defining a chest strap securing the chest of a victim and a one-way buckle 840 retaining the chest strap around the victim. A side of the chest strap may be attached to a main body strap 870 which may comprise a plurality of webbing tubing pieces 880 or a monolithic sheet of material to support the backside of the victim. An attachment bar 885 may be attached to the main body strap and a plurality of side straps 860. The side straps may be attached to a far end of the loop.

Abstract: A swimming board having a buoyant board body having an upper surface defining, with a continuous body sidewall, a channel recessed into the board body and disposed proximal to the second end of the board body and having a strap fastening assembly coupled to the board body and with a groin strap and a waist strap that define apertures for receiving a user's legs and retaining the user to the board body.

Abstract: Method and apparatus directed to cushioned concave pads, cushioned traction pads, and grip tape for self-balancing vehicles. The method and apparatus includes front cushioned pads and/or front cushioned traction pads having top surfaces and bottom surfaces; attaching the bottom surfaces of the front cushioned pads and/or the front cushioned traction pads to a first deck portion disposed at a first end of a frame; selecting rear cushioned pads and/or rear cushioned traction pads having top and bottom surfaces. The top surfaces of the rear cushioned pads and/or rear cushioned traction pads can have a rear kicktail extending integrally upwardly and rearwardly. The method and apparatus further include attaching the bottom surfaces of the rear cushioned pads and/or the rear cushioned traction pads to a second deck portion disposed at a second end of the frame.

Abstract: A surfboard fin assembly for the flush incorporation into a surfboard body that allows for adjusting the depth the fin extends below the surfboard. It has a biasing means that maintains the fin in the down position yet allows upward movement upon the application of upward force such as when the fin is struck from below. The fin is perpendicularly affixed to a hinge body that is pivotally housed in an open ended fin box that is integrated into the volume of the surfboard body. A means for tensioning is releasably attached at a distal end to the hinge body and at a proximal end to the surfer's ankle. The height of the fin is adjustable through the means for tensioning and sets the performance of the surfboard to the surfer's desired level of directional control depending on their type of surfing. The fin or fin and hinge body are interchangeable with other design of fins.

Abstract: A surf craft includes: a body having a nose and a tail; a bottom surface extending from the nose of the body to the tail of the body; a channel formed in the bottom surface of the body, the channel including a channel entrance located towards the nose of the body having a depth that is substantially flush with the bottom surface of the surf craft, a channel exit having a depth such that a bottom surface of the channel curves from the bottom surface of the surf craft towards an upper surface of the surf craft, first and second opposing sidewalls. The first and second opposing sidewalls curve outwards along a substantial portion of the channel such that a width of the channel exit is wider than a width of the channel entrance.

Abstract: A break resistant composite stringer system for a sports board includes an elongated stringer body. An upper U channel is fibrous and includes an upper U channel right flange and an upper U channel left flange. The upper U channel right flange is vertically oriented and the upper U channel left flange is vertically oriented. An inside surface of the upper U channel is bonded to the stringer right surface, the stringer top surface, and the stringer left surface. A lower U channel is fibrous and includes a lower U channel right flange and a lower U channel left flange. The lower U channel right flange is vertically oriented and the lower U channel left flange is vertically oriented. An inside surface of the lower U channel is bonded to the stringer right surface, the stringer bottom surface, and the stringer left surface.

Abstract: An ice fishing sled comprising a plastic tub body with raised walls, and flotation bumpers secured to the exterior of the walls of the tub body around the upper edges of the walls to form a peripheral flotation shelf extending outwardly from the tub body. Bottom surfaces of the flotation bumpers are spaced above the bottom of the tub body, and can function as integral raised runners along the sides of the sled when encountering deep snow or uneven ice. The tub may optionally have a peripheral flange or lip extending outwardly from the upper periphery of the tub walls, with the peripheral flotation shelf located beneath and adjacent or against the underside of the flange or lip.

Abstract: A foam product includes a foam core, an upper skin and a lower skin. The foam core has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a peripheral side surface. The upper skin covers both of the top surface and the peripheral side surface of the foam core, but extending not beyond the bottom surface of the foam core. And, the lower skin covers both of the bottom surface of the foam core and a peripheral end surface of the upper skin.

Abstract: Watersport boards and methods for forming the same. A watersport board includes an elongate shell and at least one infusion member within a shell internal volume of the elongate shell. The shell internal volume includes a shell void volume that contains a shell fill material and an infusion member volume. The infusion member weighs less than an equal volume of the shell fill material. The at least one infusion member may be or include an infusion sleeve, which defines an infusion sleeve volume that contains an infusion fill material that is less dense than the shell fill material. A method of forming a watersport board includes forming an elongate shell that defines a shell internal volume, positioning at least one infusion member within the shell internal volume, and filling the shell void volume with a shell fill material.

Abstract: One embodiment of this invention provides a body sure article providing a planing device having an inclined shape behind a leading edge, forming a planking effect when in use and an overall size and shape that allows a specific position relative to a user's arms and/or elbows. A material is used having a density sufficient to be slightly buoyant relative to water, but is easily submerged under waves momentarily without substantial opposition force to a user duck diving.

Abstract: A kickboard training device is provided. The kickboard may include an upper surface, a lower surface, and front, rear, left, and right edges bounding the upper and lower surfaces. The kickboard may include opposing wing portions positioned across a longitudinal centerline extending between the front and rear edges. The kickboard may include one or more surface elements associated with at least one of the upper and lower surfaces. The one or more surface elements may be arranged to define a flotation characteristic of the kickboard. The one or more surface elements may include at least one of a channel defined in at least the upper surface, a plurality of grooves defined in at least the lower surface, and one or more ailerons coupled to the kickboard.

Abstract: An article may include a carcass or jacket, and at least one composite member arranged within the carcass or jacket for inhibiting longitudinal stretch of the article. The composite member may include a plurality of fibers arranged in a polymeric binder, the polymeric binder bonding the composite member to the carcass or jacket. The carcass or jacket may be formed substantially of rubber or thermoplastic elastomer. The plurality of fibers may include fibers formed substantially from at least one of S-glass, aramid and carbon fiber. The polymer binder may be formed substantially of a thermoplastic material or of a thermoset material. In manufacturing of the article, the carcass or jacket may be extruded to surround the composite member. The article may be a handrail or an elevator belt.

Abstract: A water sports board is provided to be attached to the chest of a rider and allow the rider to hold onto a tow line of a powered watercraft and be pulled across water thus riding on the board. The water sports board is strapped to the rider utilizing an integrated harness system consisting of shoulder straps that cross the back of the rider (over a flotation device such as a life vest) and attaches to the board near the waist of the rider. The bottom of the water sports board includes a fin, ribs and water directing channels for allowing the rider to maneuver the board, and a water deflector positioned at or near the front of the board for purpose of deflecting water from spraying onto the face of the rider.

Abstract: A surfboard core and a stringer array embedded in the core to modify handling characteristics of the board.

Abstract: A rod stiffener may include a rod molded by a glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic resin, and brackets connected to both ends of the rod, in which properties of a core part forming a center of the rod and an outer part surrounding the core part are formed to be different from each other, and the properties of the core part and the outer part are differentiated by a mixing amount of glass fiber and polypropylene resin including the glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic resin.

Abstract: A body surfing device comprising a base and a wing attachment, having a wing strut and a wing extension that is substantially parallel to the base. The base can have a protrusion extending from its bottom surface that the wing strut is affixed to. Multiple wing extensions can be affixed to the wing strut. Leg fins can also extend from the base. A folding wing attachment that attaches to the bottom surface of the base of a body surfing device is also provided. The folding wing attachment has wings that fold to a substantially planar position along the bottom surface of the base and hinges that allow the wings to fold to create a strut and wing extension. Also provided is a body surfing device having a base, shoulder straps attached to the base, a back strap extending between the shoulder straps, and an extension strap extending therefrom.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a flotation device suited to teach beginner swimming techniques or provide enjoyment in an aquatic environment while providing flotation to at least a portion of the swimmer's body. The flotation device for aiding a swimmer in a body of water may comprise a body formed from an extruded foam and comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side rail, a second side rail, a leading lateral surface, and a trailing lateral surface, and wherein the extruded foam is a flexible cellular foam. The presently disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of making the flotation device.

Abstract: A multipurpose recreational device designed to be ridden in the prone, kneeling, or seated position. The craft is generally shaped like the front and mid-section of a kayak that was cut in half perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the craft. The craft is made of a one or more piece construction having a rocker bow in the front so as to ride up on a wave without nosediving. The craft has a displacement hull so the rider can easily maneuver on any water covered surface; liquid or frozen. The craft contains a head cavity/recess in the bow for head protection and can additionally be used for emergency breathing while upside down in the water. The bow also contains vertical handles covered on top by integrated shoulder braces.

Abstract: The present invention describes a Sports board 1, preferably a kiteboard or a wakeboard with adjustable flexural strength. The sports board 1 includes a tensioning apparatus 10 which is arranged between two foot straps 2 mounted on an upper surface 1a of the sports board 1. The tensioning device 10 consists at least of a central actuating device 11 and at least one tensioning element 12 which extends from the actuating device 11 to both of the foot straps 2, wherein the tensioning element (12) is connected either with the upper surface 1a of the sports board 1 near the foot straps 2, or with the foot straps 2. A tension on the at least one tensioning element 12 is varied by the actuating device 11.

Abstract: A traction pad system for use on a stand-up paddleboard contains an integrated seat feature that may be easily raised by the user at any desired time. The system includes a paddleboard mounting pad, a seat, a bracing mechanism, and an adhesive. The paddleboard mounting pad contains a seat-receiving hole, a first surface, and a second surface; the adhesive is superimposed over the second surface and is used to fasten the system to the top of a paddleboard. The seat fits inside the seat-receiving hole in a flush manner and is hingedly attached to the paddleboard mounting pad; the seat therefore does not interfere with the operations of the user when not in use. The seat is structurally supported by the bracing mechanism in the raised state.

Abstract: A swim aid flotation device for supplementing the buoyancy of a swimmer's lower body torso and legs while allowing the swimmer the ability to kick their legs includes a unitary or two part foam member generally in the form of an inverted T-shape with the horizontal part of the T-shape connected to the vertical part of the T-shape. The vertical portion has an expanded top portion and keeps the device positioned between the legs while the horizontal portion straddles the legs. A flexible woven strap connects the device with a loop around the swimmer's body at the waist keeping the device positioned in the crotch area of the swimmer. This provides sufficient buoyancy without need for squeezing the legs together, maintains the swimmer's body in a more horizontal swim position and allows scissor leg kicks or other types of leg kicking motion.

Abstract: An aquatic sport assistance device for use in surface water sports. An inflatable device using drop-stitch construction to provide a portable but rigid platform on which a user can sit to learn surface water sports. Two floats at a spaced relation to one another create an open space between the two floats. A deck disposed upon the two floats creates an open space between the seats and the surface of the water. This allows water skis or wake boards to rest below the deck on the surface of the water for a natural sitting position. Can be used with barefoot skiing. Device has three seat pads, allowing for use with water skis and wakeboards, and allowing for use as regular or goofy foot. Handles help a user to proper position for activity chosen. Fins give directional stability, allowing device to be towed directly behind boat or along boat wake.

Abstract: A board paddling training apparatus for assisting in improving a user's paddling technique and strength. In particular, the board paddling training apparatus includes a buoyant board, such as a board adapted for surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, or other board-related sport that entails paddling, and includes a resistance mechanism that creates drag or resistance against a user's paddle stroke. Some implementations of the resistance mechanism can be adjustable in order to create a variety of resistance against a user's paddle stroke and board movement.

Abstract: A multifunction engagement apparatus for use with a water recreation device may include a foot pad and a multifunction strap. The multifunction strap may be positioned to overlie the substantially flat foot pad, and may be moveable between an uncollapsed position and a collapsed position. In the uncollapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a generally arcuate foot opening between the strap and the top surface of the foot pad. In the collapsed position, the multifunction strap may present a substantially flat contact cushion atop the foot pad. The multifunction strap may have elastic properties that allow for selective positioning of the multifunction engagement member for use by a towed rider as the rider transitions between prone, kneeling, and/or standing positions atop a water recreation device.

Abstract: A universal hydrofoil comprises a hydrofoil assembly, a universal mount assembly and a plurality of lateral connectors. The hydrofoil assembly has a longitudinal axis and includes a centerfoil having first and second longitudinal ends. A foil assembly is disposed at the centerfoil second end and includes a fuselage, a wing at a fuselage first end and a tail at a fuselage second end. The universal mount assembly comprises a base having first and second mounting surfaces. The second mounting surface defines a mounting interface configured to reversibly mate with the centerfoil first end. A plurality of lateral supports each has a pair of arms projecting from a central beam selectively engageable with the base. The lateral connectors are adjustably secured within the lateral channel and configured to engage a structural feature of a craft.

Abstract: A recreational floatation device is disclosed. In one example, the recreational floatation device comprises a main body having a front portion and members extending substantially parallel from the front portion, a seat portion attached to the main body between the two parallel members and adjacent to the front portion, for receiving and supporting a user of the recreational flotation device in a seated portion, and a floating board removably attachable to said main body, when positioned between the parallel members.

Abstract: A wetsuit for aquatic activities may include a wetsuit material having a first surface and an opposite second surface. The wetsuit may also include a chest pad located on the first surface in an anterior portion of the wetsuit corresponding with a portion of the wetsuit associated with the chest region of a wearer of the wetsuit. The chest pad may include a left-angled superior surface and a right-angled superior surface that intersect at a prow disposed at a superior portion of the chest pad, each of the left-angled superior surface and the right-angled superior surface being configured to route water from the chest region in a lateral direction.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a flotation device suited to teach beginner swimming techniques or provide enjoyment in an aquatic environment while providing flotation to at least a portion of the swimmer's body. The flotation device for aiding a swimmer in a body of water may comprise a body formed from an extruded foam and comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side rail, a second side rail, a leading lateral surface, and a trailing lateral surface, and wherein the extruded foam is a flexible cellular foam. The presently disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of making the flotation device.

Abstract: A sports mat includes a foam sheet, an adhesive bonding film, a patterned layer and a skid proof layer. The foam sheet is made of polyethylene foam. The adhesive bonding film applied to a top surface of the foam sheet. The patterned layer has a plastic film and a pattern printed in a bottom surface of the plastic film. The plastic film together with the pattern is joined on top of the adhesive bonding film. The skid proof layer, made of thermal plastic rubber, is coated over a top surface of the plastic film. Additionally, the skid proof layer together with the patterned layer, the adhesive bonding film and the foam sheet defines a plurality of indentations and protrusions over a top surface of the skid proof layer so as to strengthen connection therebetween.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing enhanced traction for an inflatable device is disclosed. The apparatus includes an inflatable gear assembly attachable to the inflatable device. The inflatable gear assembly defines an outside diameter that is greater than the largest cross-sectional distance of the inflatable device. The inflatable gear assembly and the inflatable device may be configured as totally integrated, partially integrated, or totally separated air chambers.

Abstract: A universal hydrofoil comprises a hydrofoil assembly, a universal mount assembly and a plurality of lateral connectors. The hydrofoil assembly has a longitudinal axis and includes a centerfoil having first and second longitudinal ends. A foil assembly is disposed at the centerfoil second end and includes a fuselage, a wing at a fuselage first end and a tail at a fuselage second end. The universal mount assembly comprises a base having first and second mounting surfaces. The second mounting surface defines a mounting interface configured to reversibly mate with the centerfoil first end. A plurality of lateral supports each has a pair of arms projecting from a central beam selectively engageable with the base. The lateral connectors are adjustably secured within the lateral channel and configured to engage a structural feature of a craft.

Abstract: There is provided an item which floats in a body of water. The item includes a body having a surface provided to form at least part of the underside of the item and an opposing surface. The item includes apparatus comprising at least one channel which passes between the surfaces and allows the passage of water therethrough. A means provided to influence and/or be influenced by the passage of the water through the at least one channel to exert a propelling and/or controlling force on the item.

Abstract: A handle device for a watersports board. The handle device includes a base portion configured to protrude from a top surface of the watersports board, and a handle portion attached to the base portion, wherein the handle portion is configured to be positioned offset from a longitudinal axis of said watersports board.

Abstract: A forearm boat has a boat hull having a forearm channel that is recessed into the boat hull by a channel depth of at least 0.5 inches. The forearm channel is disposed along the boat hull's longitudinal axis, between the port side and the starboard side. The forearm channel has a channel length in the range 10 inches to 25 inches, and a channel width in the range 3 inches to 7 inches. A handle is attached to the boat hull and has a handle length in the range 3 inches to 7 inches, and is disposed closer to the bow than to the stern. The boat hull defines an overall hull length between the bow and the stern that is no greater than 2.2 times the channel length, and a beam that is no more than 2.2 times the channel width.

Abstract: A handboard for body surfing waves is described. The handboard has an adjustable strap that can be tightened or loosened depending on the size of the user's hand and the anticipated turbulence that the user expects to find in the surf. The strap is screwed into mated holes in the deck of the handboard, and there are several sets of screws so that a user can adjust the position of the strap on the handboard, thereby allowing a user to move the strap up or down the handboard depending on how he/she wants to trim the handboard. The handboard has a leash plug so that a user can be attached to the handboard, and an attachment site to which cameras and other accessories can be attached.

Abstract: A body surfing hydrofoil includes a breastplate having a buoyant material extending between an inner surface and outer surface. The breastplate has a generally rigid planar shape defined by a perimeter having opposing sides diverging outwardly from a top portion to a bottom portion. A spacer is affixed to the inner surface of the breastplate and is sufficiently flexible for compressing and retracting as a result of breathing by a person biased against the spacer. A rear flotation member is integrally connected to the breastplate.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a novel floatation device useful for use by a snorkeler.

Abstract: A ski bender is configured to cause additional deflection on a rear portion of a ski. The ski bender uses a rigid or semi-rigid member affixed to the rear portion of the ski. The member is configured to create additional radius and bend on the rear portion of the ski.

Abstract: A variable-resistance kickboard apparatus includes a buoyant kickboard body having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an opening extending through the kickboard body between the upper and lower surfaces. The apparatus also includes a blade extending through the opening and slidably engaged in the opening. The blade can be raised and lowered in the opening to adjust the proportion of the blade that extends below the lower surface.

Abstract: A twin-hull paddle board for use while standing or sitting down, the twin-hull paddle board consists of two elongated hulls, a flat platform portion having two side edges, a front edge and a back edge, the platform portion connected across the top of the two hulls intermediate between the front ends and the back ends of each hull, the flat platform portion and the tops of the hulls forming an upper deck portion, the upper deck portion comprising two recessed foot wells placed adjacent to the side edges of the flat platform portion, the recessed foot wells contoured to prevent accumulation or puddling of water during use, and a coupling mechanism for removably coupling the leg portion of the removable seat to the upper deck portion of the paddle board.

Abstract: A forearm boat has a boat hull having a forearm channel that is recessed into the boat hull by a channel depth of at least 0.5 inches. The forearm channel is disposed along the boat hull's longitudinal axis, between the port side and the starboard side. The forearm channel has a channel length in the range 10 inches to 25 inches, and a channel width in the range 3 inches to 7 inches. A handle is attached to the boat hull and has a handle length in the range 3 inches to 7 inches, and is disposed closer to the bow than to the stern. The boat hull defines an overall hull length between the bow and the stern that is no greater than 2.2 times the channel length, and a beam that is no more than 2.2 times the channel width.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of water board propulsion comprising placing a buoyant board with a flexible water catching pocket having an open proximal end and at least a partially closed distal end affixed to a bottom surface of the water board in a current of water moving at a speed which is faster than the buoyant board; positioning said open proximal end to receive the flowing water; receiving water flow into the open proximal end; and, accelerating the board in the direction the current with greater acceleration than the same board without a water catching flexible pocket.

Abstract: Wakeboarding causes a large number of knee injuries, especially to the ACL. These injuries occur from large tensile, compressive and rotational forces on the knees. Rotational and compressive forces cause meniscus tears. Rotation and tensional forces lead to ACL tears. Knee injuries may be prevented by releasing both feet from the board simultaneously at a force lower than the ultimate strength of the ligaments in the knee. This novel device releases both feet within 0.25 of a second at a force under 268 lbs.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a flotation device suited to teach beginner swimming techniques or provide enjoyment in an aquatic environment while providing flotation to at least a portion of the swimmer's body. The flotation device for aiding a swimmer in a body of water may comprise a body formed from an extruded foam and comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side rail, a second side rail, a leading lateral surface, and a trailing lateral surface, and wherein the extruded foam is a flexible cellular foam. The presently disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of making the flotation device.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for body surfing which provide the body surfer a means to stabilize his ride and control his direction/position on a wave are described herein. According to one aspect, a body surfing apparatus includes a body suit having a torso, arms, and legs; a plurality of fins located on the torso; a plurality of fins located on the arms; and one or more fins located laterally on the legs. The fins are preferably attached to the body suit via an adhesive or mechanical means and the fins and suit may include a buoyant layer. In one embodiment, the body surfing apparatus includes a body suit with multiple segmentations and/or fins with multiple sliced cuts.

Abstract: The present invention is a longitudinally reinforced wave-riding board comprising an elongated body having an elliptically shaped deck surface for supporting a surfer. The deck comprises a recessed area with a longitudinal ridge that segments the recessed area into two substantially equal recessed sections. A fin extends downwardly from a bottom surface of the wave-riding board, and one or more longitudinal stringers strengthen the structure of the board.

Abstract: A surfboard suitable for wave riding. The surfboard includes a buoyant blank chaving opposed top and bottom blank faces, a pair of rails extending between the opposed top and bottom blank faces at blank face edges. A midline axis extends between a nose region and a tail region and divides the buoyant blank into port and starboard regions, each of which extend between the midline axis and the rail on port and starboard sides. A first reinforcing element associates with at least one of the faces of the buoyant blank wherein the first reinforcing element is disposed substantially within an intermediate part of the port region and extends generally along that region between the nose region and the tail region. A second reinforcing element can also be used.

Abstract: A personal watercraft is designed to be ridden in a prone position. The craft is generally shaped like a kayak, including a bow and a stern, and includes a shaped, recessed cavity within the boat to accommodate and conform to the riders body disposed in a prone position, so that the rider can propel and navigate the craft using his arms and hands. The recessed cavity is an ergonomically designed space for the rider's body to be cradled within the craft in a prone position, creating a stable and dynamic platform for water exploits, lowering the center of gravity, and allowing the rider to guide the craft through fast running water by leaning in a desired direction.

Abstract: A water sport training device is disclosed comprising, in one embodiment, a raft having a distal nose portion and a proximal rear portion. The rear portion provides a pair of substantially spaced apart lateral pontoons and a first web spanning the space therebetween. A relatively rigid platform is positionable within the raft, substantially adjacent the first web. A buoyant seat portion is positioned substantially on a back half of the device between the pontoons and adjacent the platform. A tow rope attachment means is secured to the raft for selectively towing the device over a body of water. The device is configured such that a back half of the device has a center buoyancy sufficient for providing a stable surface to support the weight of a person while floating on water both at standstill and as being pulled through the water as by a boat.