INSTRUCTIONAL SOCCER SHOES, TRAINING AIDS ATTACHABLE TO SOCCER SHOES, AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there are provided various exemplary embodiments of soccer training shoes and soccer training aids or devices attachable to soccer shoes. In various embodiments, a training aid or device may include a plurality of visual targets configured to be attached to a soccer shoe such that contact between a particular target and a soccer ball brings about a desired action of the soccer ball. One or more of the targets may include directional indicators that indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/786,884 filed Mar. 29, 2006. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates (but not exclusively) to instructional soccer shoes, training aids attachable to soccer shoes, and related methods.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this background section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

The Sports Industry Council of America reports that over twenty-one million Americans participate in soccer annually. Soccer is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Many children are introduced to soccer through summer camps, church leagues, or other unorganized soccer programs. Many children learn to play through experimentation, verbal coaching, demonstration of ball handling techniques, or expensive one-on-one private coaching.

For good ball handling techniques, it is important to make contact with the soccer ball at certain parts of the soccer shoe in order to cause the desired action by the soccer ball. The process of learning what part of the shoe should be used to make contact with the soccer ball for a desired action may be time consuming and take many years of practice.

SUMMARY

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there are provided various exemplary embodiments of soccer training shoes, soccer training aids, and soccer training devices attachable to soccer shoes. In various embodiments, a training aid or training device includes a plurality of visual targets configured to be attached to a soccer shoe such that contact between a particular target and a soccer ball brings about a desired action of the soccer ball.

In other embodiments, a soccer training shoe generally includes a first target disposed relative to a lower portion of the shoe, to thereby provide an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface. The soccer training shoe may also include a second target disposed relative to an inner curved portion of the shoe, to thereby provide an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for passing the soccer ball. The soccer training shoe may further include a third target disposed relative to an inner toe portion of the shoe, to thereby provide an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for crossing the soccer ball. The soccer training shoe may further include a fourth target disposed relative to an upper portion of the shoe, to thereby provide an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for shooting the soccer ball. In some embodiments, one or more of the targets may include directional indicators that indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

Other aspects relate to soccer training devices or soccer training aids attachable to soccer shoes. In one exemplary embodiment, the soccer training aid generally includes two or more targets specifically located such that each target indicates a specific location on the soccer shoe for contacting a soccer ball in order to accomplish a desired action of the soccer ball. The targets may also include directional indicators for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

In another exemplary embodiment, a training aid is attachable to a soccer shoe. The training aid includes a first target attachable to a lower portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface. A second target is attachable to an inner curved portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for passing the soccer ball. A third target is attachable to an inner toe portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for crossing the soccer ball. A fourth target is attachable to an upper portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for shooting the soccer ball. One or more of the targets may include one or more directional indicators that indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

Further aspects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. In addition, any one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented individually or in any combination with any one or more of the other aspects of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of the inside portion of a left shoe according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the inside portion of a right shoe according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the left and right shoes shown respectively in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of the left and right shoes shown respectively in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of the inside portions of the left and right shoes shown respectively in FIGS. 1 and 2 with an exemplary target, as can be shown in associated training materials according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a training device or aid attached to a shoe according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the training device and shoe shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the training device and shoe shown in FIG. 6; and

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the training device shown in FIG. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there are provided various exemplary embodiments of soccer training shoes. Other aspects relate to soccer training aids or devices attachable to soccer shoes. Further aspects relate to methods of using soccer training shoes, training aids and devices. Additional aspects relate to audiovisual works which explain how to use the soccer training shoes, training aids, and devices described herein.

Various exemplary embodiments include training aids or training devices that are attachable to a soccer shoe, including, for example, training aids or devices that are attached by slipping over the shoe, such as a slipper or boot, or attached by strapping onto the shoe, or formed with the shoe during or as part of the manufacturing process, etc. Any suitable attachment mechanism may be used, including straps (e.g., straps made from materials such as leather, elastic, plastic, etc.), hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®, etc.), adhesives, etc. In some embodiments, the training aid or device comprises a fabric covering made of a stretchable fabric that, when slipped over the shoe conforms to and covers the shoe like a boot or slipper. In such embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be inherent in the fabric. But additional attachment mechanisms may also be used in combination with stretchable fabric. In some embodiments in which training device is made of a stretchable fabric, the training device may include cut-out or open areas at which there is no fabric material. These open areas may indicate the primary soccer ball handling surfaces of the foot to use. For example, the training device may include three different areas without any fabric material for representing a target for passing, a target for chipping and crossing, and a target for shooting. In some of these embodiments, text or images may be adjacent the open areas to provide instructions or define the purpose of the corresponding open area. In some embodiments, the training device may be formed of a sufficiently stretchable fabric (or other suitable material) to allow the training device to be positioned or overlapped generally under the shoe. The training device may also include open areas for allowing the cleats to pass therethrough. Alternatively, a training device may include colored portions or other suitable targets besides the open areas.

Soccer training shoes, training aids, or training devices as described and/or shown herein are typically provided in pairs, for example, one for each of the student's feet. Soccer training shoes may be provided or manufactured in any shoe size. Similarly, training aids or training devices can be provided or manufactured to fit any shoe size. In some embodiments, a pair of adult soccer training shoes, soccer training aids, or soccer training devices is provided. In other embodiments, a pair of youth training shoes, soccer training aids, or soccer training devices is provided. The soccer training shoes, soccer training aids, or soccer training devices can be modified according to the skill level of particular players.

In various embodiments, soccer training shoes, training aids, or training devices can comprise a plurality of targets wherein contact of a particular one of the targets with a soccer ball brings about a desired action of the soccer ball. Illustratively, one or more of the following targets can be present for the shoes, training aids, or training devices:

• • (a) a target disposed relative to a lower portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be trapped generally between the shoe and the playing surface (e.g., outdoor or indoor soccer field, etc.);
  • (b) a target disposed relative to an inner curved portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be passed;
  • (c) a target disposed relative to an inner toe portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be crossed or chipped; and
  • (d) a target disposed relative to an upper portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to shoot.

In such embodiments, a soccer training shoe, or a soccer training device or aid attachable to a soccer shoe, can comprise one or more specifically located targets. Each target can indicate a specific location or place on the soccer shoe for contacting a soccer ball in order to accomplish a desired action of the soccer ball.

The presence of a target on a lower portion of the shoe can be useful in training a student to properly stop a soccer ball. Illustratively, a student wearing a soccer training shoe comprising a target on the lower portion of the shoe can allow the student to get a feel for the proper point of contact between the soccer ball and the shoe to cause the soccer ball to stop in a controlled manner.

The presence of a target on an inside curved portion of the shoe can be useful in training a student to properly pass a soccer ball. Illustratively, a student wearing a soccer training shoe comprising a target on the inside curved portion of the shoe can allow the student to get a feel for the proper point of contact between the soccer ball and shoe to cause the soccer ball to be passed in the desired trajectory.

The presence of a target on an inner toe portion can be useful in training a student to properly cross or chip a soccer ball. Illustratively, a student wearing a soccer training shoe comprising a target on the inner toe portion of the shoe can allow the student to get a feel for the proper point of contact between the soccer ball and shoe to cause the soccer ball to be crossed or chipped in the desired trajectory.

The presence of a target on an upper portion of the shoe can be useful in training a student to properly shoot a soccer ball. Illustratively, a student wearing a soccer training shoe comprising a target on the upper portion of the shoe can allow the student to get a feel for the proper point of contact between the soccer ball and shoe to shoot the soccer ball in the desired trajectory.

Targets can be present for the shoe, training aid, or training device in any desired combination. In particular embodiments, a target on an upper portion of the shoe may be present with any combination with one or more of the other targets on the lower portion, inner curved portion, and/or inner toe portion. In other embodiments, all four targets are present on the shoe, training aid, or training device.

The targets can be visually distinctive from the rest of the shoe, training aid, or training device. The targets can be bright colors such as red, blue, green, orange, yellow, etc. The targets can be black if the background of the shoe, training aid, or training device is white, or white if the background is black. The colors can be further varied, using such shades as pink, light blue, light green, etc. In some embodiments the targets are the same color. In other embodiments, each target is a different color. Illustratively, a training shoe can comprise a yellow target on a lower portion of the shoe, a green target on an inner curved portion of the shoe, a blue target on an inner toe portion of the shoe, and a red target on an upper portion of the shoe. In other embodiments, one or more of the targets can be multi-colored; for example, an outer area of one color and an inner area of another color. In still other embodiments, the target is a graphic image or trademark, for example, a picture of a miniature soccer ball. The target can further be a combination of an area of color in combination with a graphic image. A pair of soccer shoes, soccer training aids, or soccer training devices can have one or more targets colored in symmetric patterns, while the background color of the shoes, training aids, or training devices can be the same color or different colors.

The targets can be any size appropriate to the general area of contact between the soccer ball and the target. Preferably, the targets are large enough to be readily visible to the user. Similarly, the targets can be any shape (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, combinations thereof, etc.).

Accordingly, various embodiments provide training aids attachable to soccer shoes, where the training aids can include a plurality of visual targets configured such that contact of a particular target with a soccer ball brings about a desired action of the soccer ball.

In some embodiments, one or more targets comprise directional indicators for indicating to the user the proper direction of foot follow-through after ball contact with the target. Such embodiments can instruct a user how to achieve a desired action upon contact of the target with a soccer ball. For example, one or more directional indicators of the target on the lower portion of a shoe can direct the student or user to move their foot in a particular direction to facilitate stopping the soccer ball upon contact. Or, for example, one or more directional indicators in one or more of the targets on the shoe's upper portion, inside curved portion, and/or inner toe portion can direct the student or user to move the foot in a particular direction upon contact with the soccer ball to cause the soccer ball to move along a desired trajectory.

In one particular embodiment, four targets are present for the shoe, training aid, or training device, with all four targets comprising one or more directional indicators. In other embodiments, one or more targets are present for the shoe, training aid, or training device, with less than all targets comprising directional indicators.

The directional indicators can be any color, shape, and form that distinguish them from the target background. For example, a directional indicator may be a black arrow, etc. As another example, a directional indicator may be a series of lines increasing in thickness in a direction corresponding to the particular direction that the student or user should move the foot upon contact with the soccer ball to cause the soccer ball to move along a desired trajectory. Additionally, or alternatively, a directional indicator may be a series of lines that increasing in darkness or changing/morphing into a more visible color in a direction corresponding to the particular direction that the student or user should move the foot upon contact with the soccer ball to cause the soccer ball to move along a desired trajectory.

Accordingly, there are disclosed herein various embodiments of soccer training shoes and soccer training aids or devices attachable to soccer shoes that comprise:

(a) a first target disposed relative to a lower portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be trapped below the shoe generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

(b) a second target disposed relative to an inner curved portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be passed;

(c) a third target disposed relative to the inner toe portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to be crossed;

(d) a fourth target disposed relative to the upper portion of the shoe, wherein contact with the target causes the soccer ball to shoot;

wherein one or more targets comprise directional indicators for indicating to the user the proper direction of foot follow-through after ball contact with the target.

Also disclosed herein are various exemplary methods for using a training aid or device to teach a student proper soccer ball handling technique. In some embodiments, a method generally includes attaching a training aid or device to the student's soccer shoes and teaching the student to contact the soccer ball with a desired target of the training aid in order to accomplish the corresponding desired action of the soccer ball. The training aid can have one or more specifically located targets as described and/or shown herein. Each target can indicate a specific location or place on the soccer shoe with which to contact the soccer ball in order to accomplish a desired action of the soccer ball.

Further embodiments provide methods for using a soccer training shoe to teach a student in proper soccer ball handling technique. In one particular embodiment, a method generally includes teaching the student to contact the soccer ball with the desired target of the training aid in order to accomplish the desired action of the soccer ball. Any soccer training shoe described and/or shown herein can also be useful according to this method.

Optionally, some methods can include teaching the student the proper foot follow-through according to a directional indicator of the target.

The teaching or training can include self-teaching or teaching by a coach, a parent, an instructor, a teacher, a computer, an audiovisual work, etc.

The methods of the present disclosure can be combined with any other embodiment of the present disclosure.

Also disclosed herein are audiovisual works that include audio material and/or visual material explaining how to use soccer training aids or devices attachable to soccer shoes and/or explaining how to use soccer training shoes. One particular embodiment includes audiovisual material instructing a user in proper soccer ball handling technique and/or audiovisual material instructing a user to contact the soccer ball with a desired target on the training aid in order to accomplish a corresponding desired action of the soccer ball.

The audiovisual work may be directed toward coaches, teachers, parents, etc., who may be instructing others in the use of a soccer shoe, soccer training aid, or soccer training device. Additionally, or alternatively, the audiovisual work can be directed toward the actual student or user of a soccer shoe, soccer training aid, or soccer training device.

In various embodiments, the audiovisual work can include audiovisual material explaining how to use a soccer training aid or device attachable to a soccer shoe, or a soccer training shoe according to any of the above described embodiments. The audiovisual work can take various forms, such as placards, signs, posters, books, etc., with written text and/or graphic illustrations showing how to use the soccer training aids, devices, or shoes. Further embodiments provide audio material (e.g., a compact disc, an audiotape, etc.) that include verbal instructions or voice messages instructing a user to contact the soccer ball with the desired target of the training aid in order to accomplish a desired action of the soccer ball. The audio material can also be accompanied by motivational music. Still further embodiments include audiovisual material (e.g., video tapes, digital video discs, internet websites, etc.) with both audio and visual material instructing a user to contact the soccer ball with the desired target of the training aid in order to accomplish a corresponding desired action of the soccer ball.

Illustratively, one embodiment includes verbal instructions and/or demonstrations given by a presenter, such as a well-known expert, celebrity, professional athlete, etc. Typically, this can include visual demonstrations such as images of a presentation along with coordinated audio. The audiovisual medium can also have a prerecorded image or sequence of images with audio.

In other embodiments, instructions can be printed, published in hard format, and/or published as electronic content available over a network, such as the Internet. In some embodiments, the instructional material can include text and images and can be formatted in a variety of formats, such as a book, a magazine, a newspaper, loose leaf pages, an Internet or Intranet web page, etc.

Illustratively, instructions may be provided along with a soccer shoe having a green target on the shoe's inside curved portion, a blue target on the shoe's inner toe portion, and a red target on the shoe's upper portion. One or more of these targets include directional indicators for follow-through after ball contact with the particular target. In such embodiments, instructions may be provided in an audiovisual work for passing as follows: approach the soccer ball from a straight line, match the green target with the soccer ball, contact the soccer ball on the green target, and follow through with the foot going upward. As another example, instructions may be provided in an audiovisual work for crossing or chipping as follows: approach the soccer ball from a diagonal line, match the blue target with the soccer ball, contact the soccer ball on the blue target, and plant the foot going downward. As a further example, instructions may be provided in an audiovisual work for shooting as follows: approach the soccer ball from a straight line, match the red target with the soccer ball, contact the soccer ball on the red target, and follow through with the foot going upward.

FIGS. 1 through 4 illustrate exemplary embodiments of soccer training shoes embodying one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown an embodiment of a left soccer shoe 100 having a target 102 on the inside curved portion of the shoe 100 for passing. The shoe 100 also includes a target 106 on the inner toe portion of the shoe 100 for crossing or chipping. The shoe 100 further includes a target 110 on the upper portion of the shoe 100 for shooting.

A directional indicator 104 is present at about the center of target 102. When wearing the soccer training shoe 100, the directional indicator 104 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in an upward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with target 102.

A directional indicator 108 is also present at about the center of target 106. The directional indicator 108 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in a downward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with the target 106.

A directional indicator 112 is also present at about the center of target 110. The directional indicator 112 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in an upward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with the target 110.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the target 102 is green, the target 106 is blue, and the target 110 is red. This exemplary color pattern may help the user remember when to use each target. For example, the color green for target 102 may represent the grass on the soccer field. The color red for target 110 may represent velocity or hot. The color blue for target 106 may represent the sky. In other embodiments, the targets can be other colors, shapes, and sizes. In further embodiments, each target can be the same color.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a right soccer shoe 200 having a target 202 on the inside curved portion of the shoe 200 for passing. The shoe 200 also includes a target 206 on the inner toe portion of the shoe 200 for crossing or chipping. The shoe 200 further includes a target 210 on the upper portion of the shoe 200 for shooting.

A directional indicator 204 is present at about the center of the target 202. When wearing the soccer training shoe 200, the directional indicator 204 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in an upward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with the target 202.

A directional indicator 208 is also present at about the center of the target 206. The directional indicator 208 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in a downward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with the target 206.

A directional indicator 212 is also present at about the center of target 210. The directional indicator 212 provides a visual instruction to the user to move the foot in an upward direction upon contact of the soccer ball with the target 210.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the target 202 is green, the target 206 is blue, and the target 210 is red. In other embodiments, the targets can be other colors, sizes, and shapes. In further embodiments, each target can be the same color. As shown by a comparison of FIG. 1 to FIG. 2, the right soccer shoe 200 is symmetrically designed to the left soccer shoe 100 in this particular embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates upper views of the left and right shoes 100 and 200, respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, the left shoe 100 has a target 110 on an upper portion of the shoe 100 for shooting. A directional indicator 112 is about centered within the target 110. The directional indicator 112 provides a visual instruction to a user wearing the shoe 100 to follow through with the foot in an upward direction.

The right shoe 200 has a target 210 on an upper portion of the shoe 200 for shooting. A directional indicator 212 is about centered within the target 210. The directional indicator 212 provides a visual instruction to a user wearing the shoe to follow through with the foot in an upward direction.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown an embodiment of a pair of soccer shoes 100 and 200 viewed from below. As shown, the left shoe 100 has a target 114 on the lower portion or sole of the shoe 100, which in this particular embodiment is located at the ball of the foot. The target 114 has a directional indicator 116 instructing the user wearing the shoe to, upon contact with the soccer ball, move the shoe to the inside when stopping the soccer ball. The target 114 also has a directional indicator 118 instructing the user to move the shoe to the rear when stopping the soccer ball.

The right shoe 200 has a target 214 on the lower portion or sole of the shoe 200, which in this particular embodiment is located at the ball of the foot. The target 214 has a directional indicator 216 instructing the user wearing the shoe to, upon contact with the soccer ball, move the foot to the inside when stopping the soccer ball. The target 214 also has a directional indicator 218 instructing the user to move the foot to the rear when stopping the soccer ball.

In FIG. 4, the targets 114 and 214 are images representative of soccer balls, and colored as such. Alternatively, the targets 114 and 214 can be configured differently, such as in different shapes, sizes, colors, images, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 5, side views of a left shoe 100 and a right shoe 200 are illustrated with respective exemplary targets 114, 214, as may be used within a print version of training materials. Such training material illustrations may specifically denote the passing target 102, 202, crossing/chipping target 106, 206 and shooting target 110, 210 areas of the shoes along with the contact location and follow through indicator portions for a specific target 114, 214. The exemplary print illustration of FIG. 5 is not intended to limit the scope of the training materials disclosed herein, as media other than print media can be used to deliver training, such as video-based or graphics-based computer training, by way of examples.

One exemplary embodiment will be described with continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 5. In this example, the targets 102, 202 (which are located on the shoes 100, 200 for passing) are green so as to represent grass on a soccer field. As shown, the targets 102, 202 may comprise green semi-circular areas located in the middle of the inside of each left and right shoe 100, 200, respectively. At about the middle of the green semi-circle, there is a silver circle or spot configured to represent a soccer ball. Within the silver circle or spot, there is provided another circle representing the location for contact with the soccer ball. There is also an arrow pointing upward for indicating the foot motion after contact with the ball. This foot action will help keep the ball down and on the ground.

The targets 106, 206 (which are located on the shoe for crossing) are blue so as to represent the sky. The targets 106, 206 may comprise blue semi-circular area located on the inside and front portions of each left and right shoe 100, 200, respectively. At about the middle of each blue semi-circle, there is a small silver circle or dot configured to represent a soccer ball. Within this silver circle, there is a blue smaller circle for representing the location for contact with the ball. There is also a blue arrow pointing downward for indicating the foot motion and downward position of the toes after contact with the ball. Having the foot down will help keep the ball high above the ground for taking a high flight.

Continuing with this example, the targets 110, 210, which are located on the shoes 100, 200 for shooting, are colored red so as to represent velocity or hot. As shown, the targets 110, 210 may comprise red circular area located on top of each the laces of the left and right shoe 100, 200. At about the middle of the red circle, there is provided a silver circle or spot configured to represent a soccer ball. Within this silver circle or spot, there is provided a smaller red circular area representing the location for contact with the soccer ball. There is also a red arrow pointing upward for indicating the foot motion and an arrow pointing downward indicating down facing toes after contact with the soccer ball. Having the foot up and toe does will help keep the ball low on the ground for low flight.

With reference to FIG. 4, the targets 114, 214 (which are located on the shoes 100, 200 for trapping) may include a small silver circle configured to represent a soccer ball. Within the silver circle, there is a green smaller circle representing the location for contact with the ball. Each target also includes a red arrow pointing backward and a red arrow pointing toward the inside of the other shoe (i.e., left shoe arrow will point toward right foot, and right foot arrow will point toward left foot). These arrows indicate the motion of the foot so the ball can be directed to that location. This will help keep the ball under control and on the ground for better control. Alternative embodiments, however, may include one or more targets configured differently than just described or shown in the figures. For example, other embodiments may include one or more targets in other colors, shapes, etc.

FIGS. 6 through 9 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a training aid or device 320 attachable to a soccer shoe 300. In this particular embodiment, the training aid 320 may be slipped generally over the shoe 300. Alternatively, other suitable attachment mechanisms may be used, including straps (e.g., straps made from materials such as leather, elastic, plastic, etc.), hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®, etc.), adhesives, etc.

A wide range of materials may be used for the training device 320. In some preferred embodiments, the training device 320 comprises a fabric covering made of a stretchable fabric that, when slipped over the shoe conforms to and covers the shoe like a boot or slipper. Accordingly, the attachment mechanism may be inherent in the fabric.

As shown in FIG. 6, the training device 320 includes cut-out or open areas 302, 306, 310 at which there is no fabric material. These open areas 302, 306, 310 are specifically located for indicating the primary soccer ball handling surfaces of the foot to use. In this particular example, the training device 320 may include three different areas without any fabric material for representing a target 302 for passing, a target 306 for chipping and crossing, and a target 310 for shooting. As shown in FIG. 6, text may be adjacent the targets 302, 306, 310 to provide instructions or define the purpose of the corresponding open area.

As shown in FIG. 7, the training device 320 may be formed of a sufficiently stretchable fabric (or other suitable material) to allow the training device to be positioned or overlapped generally under the shoe 300. The training device 320 may also include openings 330 disposed between a strap or portion 334 of the fabric material. The openings 330 are configured to allow the shoe's cleats 338 to pass therethrough.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, and thus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “bottom” and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context.

When introducing elements or features of the present disclosure and the exemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of such elements or features. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically noted. It is further to be understood that the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order or performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

The description of the disclosure is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A soccer training shoe comprising:

a first target disposed relative to a lower portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

a second target disposed relative to an inner curved portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for passing the soccer ball;

a third target disposed relative to an inner toe portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for crossing the soccer ball;

a fourth target disposed relative to an upper portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for shooting the soccer ball;

one or more of said targets include one or more directional indicators that indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

2. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein the one or more directional indicators comprise at least one arrow pointing in the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

3. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein each target includes at least one arrow pointing in the proper direction for foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

4. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein at least one of said targets is a different color than at least one of the other said targets.

5. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein each said target comprises a colored portion in a different color than the shoe and an image representative of a soccer ball for denoting the desired contact location between the target and the soccer ball.

6. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein:

the second target is green;

the third target is blue; and

the fourth target is red.

7. The soccer training shoe of claim 1, wherein:

the first target includes a first arrow pointing generally backward and a second arrow pointing generally towards the inner portion of the shoe, whereby the first and second arrows collectively indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the first target for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

the second target includes an arrow pointing generally upwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the second target for passing the soccer ball;

the third target includes an arrow pointing generally downwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the third target for crossing the soccer ball; and

the fourth target includes an arrow pointing generally upwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the fourth target for shooting the soccer ball.

8. The soccer training shoe of claim 7, wherein the fourth target includes a second arrow pointing generally downwardly for indicating that the user's toes should be downwardly facing after contacting the soccer ball with the fourth target for shooting the soccer ball.

9. A training aid attachable to a soccer shoe, the training aid comprising:

a first target attachable to a lower portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

a second target attachable to an inner curved portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for passing the soccer ball;

a third target attachable to an inner toe portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for crossing the soccer ball;

a fourth target attachable to an upper portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for shooting the soccer ball;

one or more of said targets including one or more directional indicators that indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

10. The training aid of claim 9, wherein the one or more directional indicators comprise at least one arrow pointing in the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

11. The training aid of claim 9, wherein each target includes at least one arrow pointing in the proper direction for foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

12. The training aid of claim 9, wherein at least one of said targets is a different color than at least one of the other said targets.

13. The training aid of claim 9, wherein each said target comprises a colored portion in a different color than the shoe and an image representative of a soccer ball for denoting the desired contact location between the target and the soccer ball.

14. The training aid of claim 9, wherein:

the first target includes a first arrow pointing generally backward and a second arrow pointing generally towards the inner portion of the shoe, whereby the first and second arrows collectively indicate the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the first target for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

the second target includes an arrow pointing generally upwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the second target for passing the soccer ball;

the third target includes an arrow pointing generally downwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the third target for crossing the soccer ball; and

the fourth target includes an arrow pointing generally upwards for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the fourth target for shooting the soccer ball.

15. The training aid of claim 14, wherein the fourth target includes a second arrow pointing generally downwardly for indicating that the user's toes should be downwardly facing after contacting the soccer ball with the fourth target for shooting the soccer ball.

16. A training device attachable to a soccer shoe, the training device comprising two or more targets specifically located such that each target indicates a specific location on the soccer shoe for contacting a soccer ball in order to accomplish a desired action of the soccer ball, the targets including directional indicators for indicating the proper direction of foot follow-through after contacting the soccer ball with the corresponding target.

17. The training device of claim 16, wherein the targets are configured such that, when the device is attached to a soccer shoe, the targets comprise:

a first target disposed relative to the lower portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for trapping the soccer ball generally between the shoe and the playing surface;

a second target disposed relative to an inner curved portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for passing the soccer ball;

a third target disposed relative to an inner toe portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for crossing the soccer ball; and

a fourth target disposed relative to an upper portion of the shoe for providing an indication as to where to contact the soccer ball with the shoe for shooting the soccer ball.

18. The training device of claim 16, wherein the device is configured to slipped generally over a soccer shoe.

19. The training device of claim 16, wherein the device is configured to be strapped onto a soccer shoe.

20. The training device of claim 16, wherein the device is integrally formed with a soccer shoe during manufacture of the soccer shoe.