Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for imbedding a durable outer layer of rubber in a second layer of rubber, polyurethane, or like material for use in various applications, including but not limited to shoe soles and tires. As depicted in FIG., the durable outer layer, which in the case of FIG. 4 is a shoe outsole, may comprise a plurality of lugs (2) connected with integral support bridges (3) imbedded in another rubber or rubber-like material (17). Alternatively, the durable outer layer may comprise a plurality of lugs anchored in the second layer of rubber, polyurethane or the like, using anchors, such as ribs or flanges, radiating from the perimeter of each lug.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of making an outer tire layer on a pneumatic tire microcellular closed-cell sponge rubber, method of making the aforesaid product.

Abstract: The present invention provides for multiple portions of a shoe structure and the method of making these portions wherein one or more of the portions comprise two or more flat perimeter edges. The present invention further provides faceted lasts for making faceted shoe portions. An exemplary embodiment (FIG. 9) of a shoe having a faceted outsole, rand, and shoe upper of the present invention features five separate straight-line facets (30-34) and six angled corners (40-45). Alternative degrees of the angle formed by the intersection of the various straight-line facets, and the number of the various straight-line facets, can be varied for different types of foot structures. For example, the angle degrees and number of outsole facets may vary as between shoes for adult males and for women and children's feet. Facet (30) and facet (32) contact exemplary edge formations (4a, 4b) respectively with outsole contact areas (7a-1, 7b-1).

Abstract: In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an instep strap would be used to increase tension on a cord that would substantially encircle a circumference of an ankle portion of a shoe. In the exemplary embodiment, a first end of the cord would be attached to an instep portion of a first side of a shoe upper; a second end of the cord would be attached to an instep portion of a second side of the shoe; and the cord would pass through at least one channel substantially disposed around the circumference of the ankle portion of the shoe. In an alternative exemplary two-cord embodiment of the present invention, an instep strap would be used to increase tension on two cords. By tightening and fastening the instep strap, both cords would be somewhat distorted and a tension would be created, or increased, thereby causing a snug fit of the shoe.

Abstract: A freely rotatable binding base assembly for use on a board used in single-board sports such as snowboarding and slalom water skiing. A binding assembly mounted on and movably secured to the board, and is adapted to receive a conventional boot as worn by a rider. Additional features include a locking means for selectably blocking rotation, and a clutch for braking rotation by applying side loading to the board.

Abstract: A shoe employing negative toe rocker is disclosed which enhances athletic performance in sports which are foot-muscle intensive. The negative toe rocker in the shoe is induced by a structurally resilient inner sole preformed to place the sole of the shoe in a preloaded condition arcuately downward from the heel to the toe. An upper having staggered instep lacing and cutouts containing elastic web to evenly distribute and maintain the closure tension of the shoe, and heel engaging pads located on the inner surface of the medial and lateral portions of the heel of the upper constrain the foot of the wearer in the shoe. The downwardly preloaded sole provides mechanical advantage to the wearer in sports requiring significant muscle strength in the foot. Conversion of kinetic energy into potential energy by flattening of the preloaded sole and structural rigidity of the sole in static conditions transferring load from foot muscles to the stronger calf muscles enhances athletic performance.