SPORTS GLOVE
A sports glove includes a palm portion having a palm side and a backside, a thumb stall extending from the palm portion, finger stalls extending from the palm portion, and a plurality of different performance zones on the palm side of the glove. The plurality of different performance zones includes at least first and second performance zones. The first performance zone has a first surface characteristic continuously extending from a first set of the finger stalls across at least a portion of the palm. The second performance zone has a second surface characteristic different than the first surface characteristic and continuously extending from a second set of the finger stalls across at least a portion of the palm.
The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/862,780 filed on Aug. 6, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. The present application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/______ (Atty. Dkt. No. WT-0229B-US-NP) filed on the same day herewith, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUNDThe present invention relates generally to gloves employed in sports to protect a participant's hands and to enhance performance.
Wrist portion 22 comprises that portion of glove 20 configured to extend about and receive a person's wrist below a base of a person's palm and hand. In one example, wrist portion 22 comprises an open slit 38 and a securement strap 40. Securement strap 40 extends across the slit 38 is releasably secured to an outer surface of a remainder of wrist portion 22 by a hook and loop fastener. Securement strap 40 allows the diameter of the opening of wrist portion 22 to be adjusted. In other implementations, wrist portion 22 may omit slit 38 and strap 40. For example, in one implementation, wrist portion 22 may be elastic or resiliently flexible to stretch when accommodating differently sized wrists. In another implementation, wrist portion 22 may have a single established size based upon the dimensions of the other portions of glove 20. In other implementations, other forms of securements can be used such as, for example, one or more snaps or buckles.
Palm portion 24 extends from wrist portion 22. Palm portion 24 receives the palm and backside of a person's hand Palm portion 24 comprises a palm side 42 (shown in
Thumb stall 26 comprise a generally tubular structure extending from palm portion 24 and is located relative to finger stalls 28 so as to receive a person's thumb when glove 20 is fit onto a hand. Finger stalls 28 comprise tubular structures extending from palm portion 24 to receive a person's fingers when glove 20 is fit onto a hand. Finger stall 28A comprises an index finger stall located and size to receive a person's index finger. Finger stall 28B comprises a middle finger stall to receive a person's middle finger. Finger stall 28C comprises a ring finger stall to receive a person's ring finger. Finger stall 28D comprises a pinky stall to receive a person's pinky finger.
Webs 29 comprise bands of flexible material extending between consecutive finger stalls 28. Webs 29 each have a palm side surface that is substantially coplanar or spatially contiguous with the palm side surface of the adjacent stalls 28. As a result, webs 29 provide a larger surface for contacting a football during a reception (i.e., a caught football). In the example illustrated, web 29A extends between pinky finger stall 28D and ring finger stall 28C. Web 29B extends between ring finger stall 28C and middle finger stall 28B. Webs 29 enhance catching of a projectile, such as a football. In one implementation, webs 29 are perforated. In yet another implementation, webs 29 are imperforate. In yet other implementations, webs 29 may be located between other finger stalls or may be located between finger stall 28A and the adjacent thumb stall 26. In still other implementations, webs 29 may be omitted.
Movable gripping regions (MGRs) 30 comprises individual regions along the palm side 42 of glove 20 (as shown in
Cover layer 52 overlies areas or portions of base layer 52 rigidifying such portions of base layer 50. Cover layer 52 and the base layer 50, together, form base wall 60 which has a lower degree of elasticity as compared to the elasticity of elastic web 64. As a result, when gripping panel 62 encounters force from a contacted football, elastic web 64 resiliently flexes or moves relative to base wall 60. In one implementation, cover layer 52 comprises a layer of resilient rubber or rubber-like polymer, such as silicone coated, bonded or otherwise joined to an exterior surface of base layer 50. In yet another implementation, cover layer 52 comprise a layer of suede, leather, synthetic leather or other similar material which is breathable, but which has a lesser degree of stretchability or a greater degree of rigidity as compared to base layer 50 itself. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “exterior” refers to the outermost surface or the surface of a layer or structure farthest from the interior of glove 20. In some implementations, cover layer 52 is smooth or flat. In other implementations, cover layer 52 may include raised gripping projections, ribs, grooves or other structures. In addition to securing one end or side of elastic web 64, cover layer 52 may provide additional durability, impact absorption, moisture resistance, moisture absorption and/or an enhanced gripping surface to the underlying base layer 50.
Gripping layer 54 comprises a layer of one or more materials overlying an area or portion of base layer 50. Gripping layer 54 and the underlying portion of base layer 50, together, form gripping panel 62. Gripping layer 54 and the underlying portion of base layer 50, together, can have any elasticity or rigidity greater than base layer 50 alone. As a result, when gripping layer 54 encounters force from a ball being caught, elastic web 64 resiliently flex or moves relative to gripping panel 62. Elastic web 64 moves or slides prior to stretching or deformation of gripping layer 54.
In one implementation, gripping layer 54 comprises a layer of highly grippable material, such as, for example, resilient rubber or rubber-like polymer or silicone coated, bonded or otherwise joined to an exterior surface of base layer 50. In one implementation, gripping layer comprises a layer of suede, leather or other material that is breathable, but which has a greater rigidity, a lesser flexibility or a lower level elasticity as compared to base layer 50 itself. In the example illustrated, gripping layer 54 comprises a rubber-like non-fabric outer surface, wherein a majority of the gripping layer is nonporous. In one implementation, gripping layer 54 is smooth and flat. Because gripping layer 54 is smooth or flat, gripping layer 54 has an exterior surface that provides a greater surface area for contacting a caught football (or other ball or projectile). In other implementations, gripping layer 54 may have a dimpled, serrated or other surface configuration. Gripping layer 54 has an outer surface having a coefficient of friction that is greater than the coefficient of friction of base material 50. The static coefficient of friction of the material used for the gripping layer 54, the cover layer and the base layer can be measured in accordance with ASTM Standard D-1894-11 entitled “Standard Test Method for Static and Kinetic Coefficients of Friction of plastic Film and Sheeting” promulgated by ASTM International located at 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, Pa. 19428-2959. In one implementation, gripping layer 54 is inelastic. In yet another implementation, gripping layer 54 has an elasticity, but is less elastic than elastic web 64, meaning that elastic web 64 will stretch or bend in response to a lesser force as compared to gripping layer 54.
As further shown by
As shown by
MGR 30B (or 38B) comprises a finger patch located on middle finger stall 28B. MGR 38B continuously extends from a base of the middle finger stall 28B to a tip of middle finger stall 28B. MGRs 30C comprise a series of finger patches spaced along each of index finger stall 28A, ring finger stall 28C and pinky finger stall 28D. As with MGR 30A, each of MGRs 30B (38B) and 30C comprise a gripping panel 62 completely and continuously surrounded by elastic web 64, facilitating relative movement of gripping panel 62 relative to the surrounding base wall 60 as described above with respect to
Movable gripping regions 130 are similar to movable gripping regions 30 except that MGRs 130 do not include an elastic web 64 that completely and continuously surrounds gripping panel 62, but instead include an elastic web 164 comprised of multiple spaced portions at particular points along or about gripping panel 62 so as to limit or control the direction or directions in which gripping panel 62 is permitted to move relative to base walls 60 of glove 120. In one implementation, elastic web 164 comprises an elastic fabric material such as Lycra or nylon. In other implementations, elastic web 164 may comprise other fabric and non-fabric elastic or resiliently stretchable materials. In the example illustrated, each MGR 130 comprises a pair of opposing elastic web portions 182. Elastic web portions 182 extend on opposite edges are opposite sides of the associated gripping panel 62 such that the elastic web 164 provides uniaxial elasticity. In other words, elastic web 164 largely limits relative movement of the associated gripping panel 162 along a single axis. In the example illustrated, MGR 130A facilitate relative movement of its gripping panel 62 along an axis 185 that diagonally extends between a left corner 186 of a base of the palm side of palm portion 24 and a thenar space or region 188 between thumb stall 26 and index finger stall 28A. In the example illustrated, MGRs 130B, 130C and 130D facilitate relative movement of their gripping panel 62 along respective axes 189 that longitudinally extend along each of the respective finger stalls 28. By controlling such movement along the noted axes, catching performance is enhanced. In other implementations, movement of the gripping panel 62 of the particular MGRs 130 may be controlled along other designated or preselected axes.
Movable gripping regions 230 are similar to movable gripping regions 30 except that MGRs 230 do not include an elastic web 64 that completely and continuously surrounds gripping panel 62, but instead include an elastic web 264 comprised of one or more web portions on a single side of gripping panel 62 so as to limit or control movement of gripping panel 62 to largely one direction relative to base walls 60 of glove 220 when receiving force in the one direction from a ball that is being caught. In one implementation, elastic web 264 comprises an elastic fabric material such as Lycra or nylon. In other implementations, elastic web 264 may comprise other fabric and non-fabric elastic or resiliently stretchable materials. In the example illustrated, glove 220 comprises a base layer 250 on an opposite side of the gripping panel 62 that is less elastic and nominally inelastic as compared to base layer 50 and elastic web 264. Like elastic web 264, layer 250 is flexible or foldable. As a result, such inelastic portions of layer 250 will not move or will move to a lesser extent in the direction indicated by arrow 175 from the at rest state shown in
In the example illustrated, each MGR 230 comprises single elastic web portion 282. Elastic web portion 282 extends on one edge or one side of the associated gripping panel 62 such that the elastic web 264 provides unidirectional elasticity. In other words, elastic web 264 is stretchable and unfoldable or rollable in a single direction to largely limit relative movement of the associated gripping panel 162 along a single axis in a single direction.
In the example illustrated, MGR 230A facilitates relative movement of its gripping panel 62 along an axis 185 in a single direction that diagonally extends from a left corner 186 of a base of the palm side of palm portion 24 to a thenar region 188 between thumb stall 26 and index finger stall 28A. In the example illustrated, MGRs 130B, 130C and 130D facilitate relative movement of their gripping panel 62 in a single direction along respective axes 189 towards the tips of finger stalls 28. By controlling such movement along the noted axes, catching performance is enhanced. In other implementations, movement of the gripping panel 62 of the particular MGRs 230 may be limited to other directions by locating one or more elastic web portions 282 at other locations with respect to the associated gripping panel 62.
As shown by
MGR 330B comprises a finger patch located on middle finger stall 28B. MGR 330B continuously extends from a base of the middle finger stall 28B to a tip of middle finger stall 28B. MGRs 330C comprise a series of finger patches spaced along each of index finger stall 28A, ring finger stall 28C and pinky finger stall 28D. As with MGR 330A, each of MGRs 30B and 30C comprise a gripping panel 62 completely and continuously surrounded by elastic web 364, facilitating relative movement of gripping panel 62 relative to the surrounding base wall 60 as described above with respect to
Movable gripping regions 430 are similar to movable gripping regions 330 except that MGRs 430 do not include an elastic web 364 that completely and continuously surrounds gripping panel 62, but instead include an elastic web 464 comprised of multiple spaced portions at particular points along or about gripping panel 62 so as to limit or control the direction or directions in which gripping panel 62 is permitted to move relative to base walls 60 of glove 420. In one implementation, elastic web 464 comprises an elastic fabric material such as Lycra or nylon. In other implementations, elastic web 464 may comprise other fabric and non-fabric elastic or resiliently stretchable materials. In the example illustrated, each MGR 430 comprises a pair of opposing elastic web portions 482. Elastic web portions 482 extend on opposite edges are opposite sides of the associated gripping panel 62 such that the elastic web 464 provides uniaxial elasticity. In other words, elastic web 464 largely limits relative movement of the associated gripping panel 62 along a single axis. In the example illustrated, MGR 430A facilitate relative movement of its gripping panel 62 along an axis 185 that diagonally extends between a left corner 186 of a base of the palm side of palm portion 24 and a thenar region 188 between thumb stall 26 and index finger stall 28A. In the example illustrated, MGRs 430B, 430C and 430D facilitate relative movement of their gripping panel 62 along respective axes 189 that longitudinally extend along each of the respective finger stalls 28. With glove 420, an additional MGR 430E (similar to MGR 430B) is provided on the palm side of thumb stall 26. By controlling such movement along the noted axes, catching performance is enhanced. In other implementations, movement of the gripping panel 62 of the particular MGRs 430 may be controlled along other designated or preselected axes.
In yet other implementations, one of elastic web portions 482 (and the corresponding portion of base layer 50) may be replaced with a less elastic or inelastic flexible, bendable or foldable material similar to that of base layer 250 described above with respect to glove 220). In such an alternative implementation, unidirectional movement of gripping panel 62 is facilitated, wherein gripping panel 62 is more apt to move in one direction along an axis versus the other direction along the same axis. For example, in one implementation, the left elastic web portion 42 shown in
In one implementation, base wall 560 can be formed with a lower degree of elasticity as compared to the elasticity of elastic web 564. As a result, when gripping panel 562 encounters force from a contacted football, elastic web 564 resiliently flexes, extends or moves relative to base wall 560. In one implementation, base wall 560 comprises a layer of resilient rubber or rubber-like polymer, such as silicone. In yet another implementation, base wall 560 comprises a layer of suede, leather, synthetic leather or other similar material which is breathable, but which has a lesser degree of stretchability or a greater degree of rigidity as compared to elastic web 564. In some implementations, base wall 560 is smooth or flat. In other implementations, base wall 560 may include raised gripping projections, ribs, grooves or other structures.
Gripping panel 562 comprises a layer of one or more materials having an elasticity or rigidity less than elastic web 564. As a result, when gripping panel 562 encounters force from a ball being caught, elastic web 564 resiliently flexes or moves relative to gripping panel 562. Elastic web 564 moves or slides prior to stretching or deformation of gripping layer 54.
In one implementation, gripping panel 562 comprises a layer of resilient rubber or rubber-like polymer, such as silicone. In one implementation, gripping panel 562 comprises a layer of suede, leather or other material that is breathable, but which has a greater rigidity, a lesser flexibility or a lower level elasticity as compared to elastic web 564 itself. In the example illustrated, gripping panel 562 comprises a rubber-like non-fabric outer surface, wherein a majority of the gripping layer is nonporous. In one implementation, gripping panel 562 is smooth and flat. Because gripping panel 562 is smooth or flat, gripping panel 562 has an exterior surface that provides a greater surface area for contacting a caught football (or other ball or projectile). In other implementations, gripping panel 562 may have a dimpled, serrated or other surface configuration. Gripping panel 562 has an outer surface having a coefficient of friction that is greater than the coefficient of friction of base layers 560. In one implementation, gripping panel 562 is inelastic. In yet another implementation, gripping panel 562 has an elasticity, but is less elastic than elastic web 564, meaning that elastic web 564 will stretch or bend in response to a lesser force as compared to gripping panel 562.
Elastic web 564 comprises one or more layers of resiliently stretchable and bendable elastic material which form the innermost surfaces of glove 520. In one implementation, elastic web 564 is formed from an elastic fabric material such as Lycra or nylon. In yet other implementations, elastic web 564 is formed from other elastic fabric materials are other elastic non-fabric materials. Elastic web 64 extends between base wall 560 and gripping panel 562 to resiliently retain gripping panel 562 in place until gripping panel 562 encounters the force of a contacted football (or other projectile). In the example illustrated, elastic web 564, when in a default unstretched or less stretched state, equidistantly supports gripping panel 562 between edges of base wall 560. As shown by
In one implementation, each gripping panel 662 comprises a layer of resilient rubber or rubber-like polymer, such as silicone. In one implementation, gripping panels 662 comprises a layer of suede, leather or other material that is breathable, but which has a greater rigidity, a lesser flexibility or a lower level elasticity as compared to elastic web 564 itself. In the example illustrated, gripping panel 662 comprises a rubber-like non-fabric outer surface, wherein a majority of the gripping panel 662 is nonporous. In one implementation, gripping panel 662 is smooth and flat. Because gripping panel 662 is smooth or flat, gripping panel 662 has an exterior surface that provides a greater surface area for contacting a caught football (or other ball or projectile). In other implementations, gripping panel 662 may have a dimpled, serrated or other surface configuration. Gripping panel 662 has an outer surface having a coefficient of friction that is greater than the coefficient of friction of elastic webs 664. In one implementation, gripping panel 662 is inelastic. In yet another implementation, gripping panel 662 has an elasticity, but is less elastic than elastic web 664, meaning that elastic webs 664 will stretch or bend in response to a lesser force as compared to the force that initiates stretching or bending of gripping panel 662.
Elastic webs 664 each comprise one or more layers of resiliently stretchable and bendable elastic material. In one implementation, each elastic web 664 is formed from an elastic fabric material such as Lycra or nylon. In yet other implementations, elastic web 664 is formed from other elastic fabric materials or other elastic non-fabric materials. Elastic webs 64 extend between gripping panels 662 to resiliently retain gripping panels 662 in place in the elevated position, default or at rest position shown in
In the example illustrated, elastic webs 664, are formed by a single continuous base layer 650 of elastic material. Gripping panels 662 are formed by individual gripping layers 654 formed upon spaced portions of base layer 650, wherein the gripping layers 654 inhibit elasticity or resilient stretching of the underlying portions of base layer 650. In one implementation, gripping panels 662 comprise individual coatings of a rubber-like material such as a rubber or silicone deposited, coated or otherwise secured upon spaced portions of base layer 650 well base layer 650 is in a stretched state, wherein release of base layer 650 results in the uncoated portion of the base layer 650 returning to and at rest state shown in
Due to the accordion-like nature of MGRs 630, MGRs 630 provide uniaxial relative movement between gripping 662 and surrounding portions of glove 620. In the example illustrated, glove 620 comprises a pair of MGRs 630A and 630B on the palm side of palm portion 24, wherein movement or flattening of gripping panels 662 occurs along diagonal axes pointing towards the thenar region 188 between the thumb stall 26 and the index finger stall 28A. Glove 620 further comprises MGRs 630C, 630D, 630E and 630F on the palm side of each of finger stalls 28A, 28B, 28C and 28D, respectively. MGRs 630 on the finger stalls 28 provide uniaxial movement or flattening of gripping panels 662 along longitudinal axes extending from a base of each finger stall to the tip of each finger stall. The uniaxial movement illustrated along the described axes enhances reception of a ball, such as a football. In other implementations, MGRs 630 may be provided at other locations or may provide uniaxial movement in other directions.
As further shown by
It is contemplated in the present invention that the MGRs of the above-listed implementations can be used in other combinations, arrangements, sizes and/or number. The locations of the MGRs can also be varied about the gloves. Additionally, size, length, width and elasticity of the elastic webs 64, 164, 264, 363, 464, 564 and 646 can be varied to match a particular application or need. The elastic webs can lie generally in a single plane, or be corrugated, or overlapping or any arrangement. Additionally, the arrangement of layers of the above-listed gloves can be varied. For example, the glove can be formed without a cover layer 52, and without a base wall.
The MGRs 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530 and 630 of gloves 20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 and 620 serve as a plurality of catches to facilitate the catching or retention of a football. The movement of the MGRs 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530 and 630 of gloves 20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 and 620 give the gloves a “net-like” characteristic. The MGRs move with the football upon contacting the football while the rest of the glove(s) essentially remains in place on the user's hand(s). Then as the football is caught, the MGRs resilient move back to their at rest position. Accordingly, the MGRs provide additional catching and retention ability not present on conventional sports gloves including football gloves.
FGRs 830 comprises individual regions along the palm side of glove 20 (as shown in
As shown by
Each concave depression 835 remains in a concave state even when receiving a person's fingers. Upon encountering an external force or pressure from engaging an external surface (pressure applied between the user's hands and the football—pressure can be from the user's hands, the football or both), such as a football, concave depressions 835 resiliently flatten to increase the surface area of each FGR 830 in contact with the ball. When the concave depressions 835 are no longer being pressed against the wall, such as when the ball is dropped or released, concave depression 835 resiliently return to their initial at rest concave state shown in
As shown by
In one implementation, arcuate resting pad 852 comprises an insert that is welded, bonded, stitched or otherwise secured in place within each stall 28. In one implementation, arcuate resting pad 852 is formed from a material distinct from the material forming the walls of stall 28 or movable gripping region 830. In one implementation, resting pad 852 is formed from material and has a thickness such that resting pad 852 has a greater compressibility and greater resiliency as compared to the surrounding materials of stall 28 or movable gripping region 830, providing greater shock absorption between the palm side of glove 850 and the palm side of the person's fingers.
As shown by
Each of gloves 860 shown in
Each of movable gripping regions 870 comprises one or more of the above described movable gripping regions 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730 and/or FGR 830, alone or in combination. In one implementation, one or more of the movable gripping regions 870 may be configured to resiliently flatten (similar to FGR 830) or may be permanently flat (similar to movable surfaces 762 of glove 760). In one implementation, the movable gripping regions 870 which are flat or which resiliently flatten may additionally be configured to slide or transversely move relative to surrounding portions of the glove such as with movable gripping regions 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730. It should be noted that with respect to movable gripping regions 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630 and 730, the individual movable gripping regions may alternatively be configured to move along a transverse axis, along an axis that is perpendicular to the illustrated axis 189. In some implementations, one or more of such illustrated movable gripping regions 870 may be omitted.
Each of gloves 920A, 920B, 920C has a unique set of performance zones, each zone having a distinct surface characteristic. As shown by
Glove 920C comprises a glove comprising performance zones 980, 982 and 984. Performance zone 980 is similar to performance zone 970 in that performance zones 980 are substantially flat or smooth, but for perforations 972, 974. Performance zones 980 are located on tips of the palm side of finger stalls 28 and thumb stall 26. Performance zones 980 facilitate catching a ball and inhibit unintended and accidental catching of such fingertips on another player's jersey.
Performance zone 982 comprise those surface regions of the palm side of glove 920C having pointed raised gripping projections 986 (represented by single X's in the respective zones 982). As shown by
In the example illustrated, such pointed raised projections 986 are arranged such that when a person bends his or her fingers and/or thumb downward across his or her palm, such projections 986 on the finger stalls 28 or thumb stall 26 cooperate with, and interact with, such pointed raised projections 986 on the palm portion to provide enhanced gripping of a player or of the player's uniform. When knuckles of the fingers bend close the hand, projections 986 follow an arc path and close towards one another to assist in pinching, staying or catching material on the palm side, such as an opponent's jersey. In one implementation, such raised projections 986 are integrally formed as a single unitary body with the underlying outer layer of silicone.
In the example illustrated, performance zone 982 extends from the palm side of the figure stalls 28 across at least a portion of the palm portion 24. In the example illustrated, performance zones 982 cover the two lowermost joint segments of finger stalls 28, cover the portion of palm portion 24 above hand been line 962, cover the portion to the left of hand been line 952, covers the palm portion to the right of thumb side and the bending line 950 and covers the region between bending lines 956 and 960. In other implementations, zones 982 may have other extents on the palm side of glove 920C.
Performance zones 984 are similar to performance zones 982 except that performance zones 984 additionally comprise raised walls or ribs 988A, 988B, 988C, 988D, 988E and 988F (collectively referred to as ribs 988). Ribs 988 comprise outwardly projecting walls. In one implementation, ribs 988A extend between bending lines 950 and 952. Rib 988B extends between bending lines 950 and 960. Rib 988C extends from bending line 960 to finger bending line 954 at the base of index finger stall 28A. Ribs 988D extend from bending line 960 to bending line 962. Rib 988E extends from bending line 952 across the palm from bending line 962 to the intersection of the base of middle finger stall 28B and ring finger stall 28C. Rib 988F extends from bending line 952 to bending line 962. Such ribs 988 provide additional enhanced gripping. As a result, glove 920C is well-suited for those players wishing to grasp, block and/or tackle another player, such as a defensive lineman or offensive lineman in American football.
Glove 920B comprises a hybrid of gloves 920A and 920C. Glove 920B comprises performance zones 990, 992 and 994. Performance zones 990 (represented by those regions having just perforations 970, 972) are similar to performance zones 970 and 980 in the performance zones 990 are substantially flat or smooth, but for perforations 972, 974. Performance zones 990 are located on the palm side of glove 920B is at the final outermost joint or segment of pinky finger stall 28D, ring finger stall 28C, at or across the entirety of thumb stall 26, index finger stall 28A and middle finger stall 28B, on those portions of palm portion 24 to the right of hand bend line 950 and from the base of index finger stall 28A and middle finger stall 28B to pinky side palm bending line 952. Performance zones 990 are located on the aforementioned palm side surfaces of glove 920B that most frequently contact or engage a football being caught. As a result, performance zones 990 enhance the ability of a player action retain the football.
Performance zones 992 (represented by areas having just x's and possibly perforations 970, 972) are similar to performance zones 982 of glove 920C. Performance zones 992 comprise raised gripping projections 986, but omit ribs 988. Performance zones 992 enhance gripping of an opposing player. Performance zones 992 are located on the palm side of glove 920B at the two lowermost joints or segments of ring finger stall 28C and pinky finger stall 28D, from the base of ring finger stall 28C and pinky finger stall 28D to the left of rib 998E, terminating above bending line 962. Performance zones 992 further extend to the left of bending line 952.
Performance zones 994 (regions having both X's and ribs) are similar to performance zones 984 of glove 920C except that performance zones 994 cover a smaller area of the palm side of glove 920B than the performance zones 984 of glove 920C. Performance zones 994 extend between bending lines 960, 962 and between bending lines 952 and 950. Overall, the reduced area of zones 994 as compared to glove 920C enhances the ability of glove 920C to assist in catching a ball. At the same time, the additional provision of zones 992 and 994 enhance ability of glove 920 to grip opposing players. As a result, glove 920B is well-suited for those positions which demand that a player both be able to catch and retain a ball as well as grip, block and/or tackle an opposing player. Glove 920B may be well-suited for player positions such as tight end, linebacker, cornerback or safety. If a particular player wishes to enhance an acknowledged deficiency, such as catching a ball or tackling, the particular player may select one of gloves 920 to address the deficiency.
The implementation of
In one implementation, a fourth performance zone 999 can be incorporated into one or more of the gloves 920A, 920B and/or 920C. The fourth performance zone 999 is preferable sufficiently sized to be tested under the Standard Test Method of Performance Specifications for Newly Manufactured Football Players and Coverings, National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) DOC (ND) 019-10m12 dated May 2012 (attached as an appendix hereto). The NOCSAE Standard Test Method requires the test sample from the glove or hand covering material to be from the palm or the finger of the glove. The hand covering of the sample must be free of seams, have a width of at least 1 inch, and have a contact area of at least 2 square inches. The performance zone 999 can be formed and sized so as to provide a sample location for the NOCSAE Standard Test Method. According to one implementation, each of the gloves 20-1020 satisfies section 9 Performance Requirements of the NOCSAE Standard Test Method. In particular, the MGRs and the FGRs satisfy performance requirements 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3 of such standards. In particular, when tested in accordance section 8.1, the hand covering material such gloves must freely fall from a pebbled glass service within 90 seconds after the glass of rotated a full 180°. When tested in accordance with Section 8.2, the surface coefficient of friction (SCOF) must be 4.5 or less. When tested in accordance with sections 8.1 and 8.2, no visible transfer material occurs between the hand covering material to the pattern #62 glass. In another implementation, the performance zone 999 can be formed of a material that is less grippable or less tacky or less tactile than the material used in the other performance zones 970, 972 and 974. The performance zone 999 can be configured to fully satisfy the Performance Requirements of the NOCSAE Standard Test Method, and one or more of the other performance zones 970, 972 and 974 can be configured with peel adhesion characteristics and/or coefficient of friction values that exceed the Performance Requirements.
In each of the above-described gloves 20-1020, the base layer has been described as comprising a layer of resiliently flexible elastic material such as nylon or Lycra. In other implementations, the base layer of such gloves 20-1020 may alternatively comprise a non-fabric material. In one implementation, the base layer of such gloves 20-1020 on the palm side of the glove may comprise a transparent or translucent material such that at least portions of a person's skin on the finger or palm are visible. For example, in one implementation, the base layer of such gloves on the palm side may comprise a translucent or transparent silicone or other transparent elastic material. In one implementation, those portions of each glove that simply cover the palm portion 24 may be transparent while the base layer covering the fingers and thumb are opaque. In one implementation, portions of the base layer on the palm side of each of the gloves may be transparent while the portions are opaque. The opaque portions or the transparent portions of both hands, when positioned adjacent one another may form a logo, image, word or the like.
Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although different example embodiments may have been described as including one or more features providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example embodiments or in other alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example embodiments and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements.
Claims
1. A sports glove comprising:
- a palm portion having a palm side and a backside;
- a thumb stall extending from the palm portion;
- finger stalls extending from the palm portion; and
- a plurality of different performance zones on the palm side of the glove, the plurality of different performance zones comprising: a first performance zone having a first surface characteristic continuously extending from a first set of the finger stalls across at least a portion of the palm; and a second performance zone having a second surface characteristic different than the first surface characteristic and continuously extending from a second set of the finger stalls across at least a portion of the palm.
2. The glove of claim 1, wherein the first set of finger stalls comprises a pinky stall and a ring finger stall and wherein the second set of finger stalls comprises a middle finger stall and an index finger stall.
3. The glove of claim 1, wherein the first surface characteristic has a first grip ability and wherein the second surface characteristic has a second grip ability less than the first grip ability.
4. The glove of claim 3, wherein the first surface characteristic comprises an array of raised gripping projections.
5. The glove of claim 4, wherein the array of raised gripping projections comprise an array of pointed projections, each of the pointed projections having a base proximate the palm and an apex pointing away from the base.
6. The glove of claim 3, wherein the second surface characteristic comprises a perforated generally flat surface.
7. The glove of claim 6, wherein the palm side of the glove comprises one or more layers of material and wherein the perforated flat surface comprises:
- first perforations extending through each of the one or more layers; and
- second perforations partially extending through the one or more layers.
8. The glove of claim 7 wherein the one or more layers comprises:
- a fabric layer bordering an interior of the glove to contact a received hand; and
- a resilient rubber-like polymer on an outer surface of the fabric layer.
9. The glove of claim 8, wherein the fabric layer comprises one of Lycra and nylon and wherein the resilient rubber-like polymer comprises silicone.
10. The glove of claim 1, wherein the palm side of the glove comprises:
- a fabric layer; and
- a resilient rubber-like polymer on an exterior of the fabric layer.
11. The glove of claim 10, wherein the resilient rubber-like polymer comprises a layer having grooves extending along hand bending lines.
12. The glove of claim 11, wherein the resilient rubber-like polymer comprises raised elongate ribs projecting beyond the layer.
13. The glove claim 11, wherein the layer comprises a first groove extending along a thumb side bending line and a second groove extending along a pinky side bending line.
14. The glove claim 13, wherein the resilient rubber-like polymer comprises raised elongate ribs projecting beyond the layer, and wherein the raised elongate ribs projecting beyond the layer extend from the first groove to the second groove.
15. The glove of claim 13, wherein the first performance zone extends on a side of the pinky side bending line opposite the thumb side bending line.
16. The glove of claim 15, wherein the second performance zone extends on a palm side of the thumb stall to the base of the glove on a side of the thumb side bending line opposite the pinky side bending line.
17. The glove of claim 10, wherein the first performance zone includes raised gripping projections and wherein the second performance zone omits any raised gripping projections.
18. A set of gloves comprising:
- a first glove having a palm side that is substantially flat across a palm thumb stall and finger stalls of the first glove;
- a second glove having a palm side comprising a first performance zone that is substantially flat, a second performance zone that comprises a plurality of raised projections and a third performance zone comprising a plurality raised projections and at least one raised rib; and
- a third glove having a palm side comprising a first performance zone that is substantially flat, a second performance zone comprising a plurality of raised projections and a third performance zone comprising a plurality of raised projections and at least one raised rib, wherein the first performance zone of the second glove is smaller than the first performance zone of the first glove, wherein the second performance zone of the third glove is larger than the second performance zone of the second glove and wherein the third performance zone of the second glove is smaller than the third performance zone of the third glove.
19. The set of gloves of claim 18, wherein each of the first, second and third gloves includes at least one palm side groove.
20. The set of gloves of claim 19, wherein the palm side grooves facilitate bending of the glove along at least on hand bending line.
21. The set of gloves of claim 20, wherein the at least one hand bending line includes a thumb side palm bending line, a pinky side palm bending line and at least one finger base bending line.
22. The glove of claim 18, wherein the palm side of the first glove comprises one or more layers of material and wherein the substantially flat surface includes perforations.
23. The glove of claim 22, wherein the perforations include:
- first perforations extending through each of the one or more layers; and
- second perforations partially extending through the one or more layers.
24. The glove of claim 18, wherein the first, second and third gloves are football gloves, wherein the first glove is configured for use by football players who catch and retain the football, wherein the second and third gloves are configured for use by football players who regularly tackle or block other players during play.
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 5, 2014
Publication Date: Feb 12, 2015
Inventors: Bradley L. Gaff (Woodridge, IL), Allen G. Wagner (Chicago, IL), Shaun P. Gilday (Chicago, IL), Rey C. Corpuz (Hinsdale, IL)
Application Number: 14/452,198
International Classification: A63B 71/14 (20060101); A41D 19/00 (20060101);