Abstract: A gliding apparatus having a support surface and a gliding surface, the surfaces being opposite one to the other so as to provide a spacing therebetween. The surfaces substantially have a common length. The support surface is wider than the gliding surface. A closed volume is demarcated between the support and gliding surfaces.

Abstract: A tightening device adapted to equip an article of footwear, which makes it possible to hold the foot laterally, while distributing on the foot the pressure generated by the tightening device. The tightening device includes an upper flap that partially covers a lower flap. The flaps hold the foot by the tightening device which includes at least one anchor positioned on each of the flaps. The upper flap is more flexible than the lower flap.

Abstract: A frame for a sports article, especially a frame for a roller skate, including a front upper portion provided to receive the front portion of a boot, and a rear upper portion provided to receive the rear portion of a boot. The front upper portion and the rear upper portion are part of the same planar upper surface. The frame further includes two cylindrical holes provided to receive two fixing elements, the holes extending in the longitudinal plane of the frame and their respective axes being spaced from one another by a value E of between about 164 mm and 170 mm, more particularly equal to about 167 mm. Moreover, a substantially cylindrical cavity centered on the axis of the cylindrical hole is provided in the upper surface. The invention is also directed to a line of boots for a roller skate and to a line of frames therefor.

Abstract: A connecting interface device adapted to be fixed on a boot and mounted pivotally on a sports apparatus which procures rear retention when climbing. The device includes a plate to which a boot is fixed, which is pivotally mounted on an axle in relation to the sports apparatus. This device also includes a base plate that is pivotally mounted in relation to the plate about an axis. This base plate is arranged beneath the plate and includes a housing for receiving a climbing wedge that is mounted so as to be inserted between the plate and the base plate. This device finds an application in particular in snowshoes and cross country skis.