Abstract: A tightening device for tightening an article includes an elongate panel that is positionable about the article. The elongate panel has a proximal end and a distal end. A tensioning mechanism is coupled with the proximal end of the elongate panel. The tightening device also includes a tension member that is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. The tightening device further includes at least one guide member that is coupled with the elongate panel between the proximal end and the distal end. The tension member is operable with the at least one guide member so that the tension member is routed about the article and along a portion of the elongate panel.

Abstract: A differentially tightenable ski boot includes a lower shell and an upper cuff that is pivotally coupled with the lower shell. The ski boot includes a first tightening system that is coupled with the lower shell and a second tightening system that is coupled with the upper cuff. Each tightening system includes a reel based closure device, a tension member that is operably coupled with the reel based closure device, and at least one guide member that routes or directs the tension member along a path about the lower shell or upper cuff. The first tightening system and the second tightening system are operable independently of each other to independently and differentially tightening the lower shell and the upper cuff.

Abstract: A device for applying a constrictive force about a limb includes a reel based device, a tension member, and a force application component. The reel based device includes a housing, a spool positioned within the housing, a load holding mechanism that enables the spool to rotate in a tightening direction within the housing and that prevents the spool from rotating in a loosening direction within the housing, and a knob that is coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes the spool to rotate in the tightening direction. The tension member is coupled with the spool so that as the spool rotates in the tightening direction, the tension member is wound about the spool. The force application component is coupled with the tension member so that as the tension member is wound about the spool, the force application component constricts about the limb.