LACE CINCHING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

Abstract

A lace cinching apparatus generally configured to secure within an interior space an elastomeric lace. The lace cinching apparatus can include a first and second aperture positioned apart from each other and above a third aperture. A portion of the interior sidewalls of the first and second aperture can have groove edge configured to interface with a portion of a shoelace. The shoelace can be comprised of an elastomeric material. The geometry of the groove edge can be configured to allow for a shoelace to pass through the aperture relatively freely in a first direction but limit or impede the ability of the lace to move a second direction. A perimeter defines an interior space with a first aperture and second aperture configured to secure the loose ends the lace during use.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This Patent Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application: 63/478505 filed Jan. 5, 2023 and to U.S. Design Application 29/910030 filed on Aug. 14, 2023, the disclosures of which are considered part of the disclosure of this application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a new and improved lace cinching apparatus and method for use. In one aspect, the lace cinching apparatus is configured to retain a cord or lace member without the need for tying, such as for use in securing footwear. In another aspect, the lace cinching apparatus is specifically configured for use with cords comprised of an elastomeric composition, including but not limited to a solid thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to facilitate the inherent material property of deflection as opposed to compression for securing the TPU cord within the lace cinching apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Most common items of footwear require a lace or cord that is threaded through eyelets within the footwear and secured to itself by tying into a knot. Although generally useful, this securing method and traditional laces have several deficiencies. First, tying requires physical dexterity and learning to tie the proper knot. Second, the typical knot used to secure footwear is often loosened during activity and requires somewhat frequent maintenance to ensure a proper fit. Third, a traditional lace is comprised of a fibrous material, either natural or synthetic, that is prone to breaking, stretching, and failure over time. Other lace securing apparatus typically require multiple components that can fail or create wear point.

Therefore, a need exists for an improved lace and lace cinching apparatus that makes securing footwear easier, quicker, and more robust.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, this disclosure is related to a lace cinching apparatus for a shoelace that can allow a user to easily adjust the tension and maintain the tension of the lace in a shoe. The lace cinching apparatus can include a first side, a second side, and a sidewall extending from the perimeter edges of the first and second sidewall to define the body of the apparatus. The apparatus can further include a first aperture, a second aperture, and a third aperture formed through the body of the apparatus between the first side and the second side. The first aperture can have an aperture side wall that includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the first aperture sidewall includes a first grooved edge. The second aperture can have an aperture sidewall having a first portion and a second portion with a first portion of the second aperture sidewall including a second grooved edge. The first grooved edge can interface with a first portion of the shoelace and the second grooved edge can interface with a second portion of the shoelace. The third aperture can include a channel opening extending between the interior of the aperture to the sidewall of the body and for a first and second hook portion. The third aperture can further include a first aperture portion and a second aperture portion, wherein the first aperture portion is positioned at a first end and the second aperture is positioned at a second end, wherein a channel is formed between the first aperture portion and the second aperture portion. Each of the respective grooved edges can have a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the grooved edge is generally planar and the second side of the grooved edge is generally chamfered.

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a shoelace and lace cinching system and method comprising an elastomeric shoelace and a lace cinching apparatus for adjustably securing the shoelace. A first end of the elastomeric shoelace can be inserted into a first aperture on the second side of the lace cinching apparatus of the lace cinching apparatus and pulled through to the first side of the lace cinching apparatus. A second end of the elastomeric shoelace can be inserted into a second aperture on the second side of the lace cinching apparatus of the lace cinching apparatus and pulled through to the first side. The first and second aperture can each have a sidewall having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the sidewall can be a grooved edge or interfacing portion and the second portion can be a smooth or angular sidewall portion. The first and second end of the shoelace can then be pulled around a central body portion of the apparatus and down into the third aperture from the first side back to the second side. Each respective end of the shoelace can then be positioned into an aperture portion of the third aperture. The laces can then be pulled laterally away from each other to tighten the laces.

In another aspect, this disclosure is related to a solid elastomeric lace comprised of a thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and a lace cinching apparatus configured to maintain the cord at a fixed position or length.

In another aspect, this disclosure is related to a lace cinching apparatus comprised of a specific shape and having a plurality of distinctly positioned and shaped apertures within an interior and serrations around a perimeter of the apparatus for retaining the cord within and against the apertures of the apparatus.

The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to be read in conjunction with both this summary, the detailed description and any preferred and/or particular embodiments specifically discussed or otherwise disclosed. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and will fully convey the full scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a back view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a top side view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a bottom side view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a back perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure implemented with a shoe and shoelace.

FIG. 9B is a close-up view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus of the present disclosure interfacing with a shoelace.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, which are also referred to herein as “examples,” are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Before the present invention of this disclosure is described in such detail, however, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth and may, of course, vary. Various changes may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s), to the objective(s), spirit, or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure made herein.

Unless otherwise indicated, the words and phrases presented in this document have their ordinary meanings to one of skill in the art. Such ordinary meanings can be obtained by reference to their use in the art and by reference to general and scientific dictionaries.

References in the specification to “one embodiment” indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

The following explanations of certain terms are meant to be illustrative rather than exhaustive. These terms have their ordinary meanings given by usage in the art and in addition include the following explanations.

As used herein, the term “and/or” refers to any one of the items, any combination of the items, or all of the items with which this term is associated.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “include,” “for example,” “such as,” and the like are used illustratively and are not intended to limit the present invention.

As used herein, the terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances.

Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “front,” “back,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “right,” and “left” in this description are merely used to identify the various elements as they are oriented in the FIGS, with “front,” “back,” and “rear” being relative to the apparatus. These terms are not meant to limit the elements that they describe, as the various elements may be oriented differently in various applications.

As used herein, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. Similarly, coupled can refer to a two member or elements being in communicatively coupled, wherein the two elements may be electronically, through various means, such as a metallic wire, wireless network, optical fiber, or other medium and methods.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-10 of a lace cinching apparatus and method for use according to the present disclosure and generally referred to herein as apparatus 10. Most generally the apparatus 10 can be an exterior shaped structure 100 defined by a sidewall 103 defined by a perimeter around a first side 101 and a second side 102 opposing the first side 101. The sidewall can define a width or thickness between the first side 101 and the second side 102. The thickness can be variable or uniform depending on the configuration of the body. In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus can have a first thickness at the edges of the structure 100 that is less than the thickness at a central position of the apparatus 10. In some exemplary embodiments, the sidewall can have a texture or serration for better grip by increasing the surface area of the perimeter 103 to help a user grip the apparatus 10 during use and additionally aids to keep the apparatus 10 secured and positioned during use.

The apparatus 10 is generally sided to aid a user during use of the apparatus 10. In some exemplary embodiments a variable thickness can help indicate the proper orientation of the apparatus 10 during use. The apparatus can generally have rounded and curved edges. Accordingly, during use of the apparatus 10, the structure 100 is generally adapted to secure a shoelace to a desired tension when used on footwear. The apparatus 10 is configured with specific shape and features to secure the lace within the apparatus 10, by positioning the apparatus 10 second side 102 against the footwear, wherein this second side 102 is designed to be adjacent to object to be secured and the first side 101 faces outward to an environment.

The perimeter 103 of the apparatus 10 defines an interior space of the structure 100. This interior space can include a first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 with the first aperture 104 and the second aperture 105 through the entire thickness/width of the structure 100 from the first side 101 to the second side 102. It should be understood that the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 could similarly be formed as a singular aperture similar to that shown in FIG. 10. The first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 can take any suitable shape. Each aperture 104, 105 can optionally have an angular wall portion 107a,b that can slope generally from the top surface 101 of the apparatus 10 to a first interior edge 111 of the respective aperture 104, 105. The angular wall portions 107 can additionally be formed in a concave orientation or radiused configuration to conform to the shape of a shoelace 200. The angular wall portion 107 can generally slope down away from the central portion of the apparatus to the first edge 111 as shown in FIG. 7. A second interior edge of 113a,b of each aperture can be formed into a groove orientation or groove edge, as shown in FIGS. 1-2. The apertures can additionally have top 140a,150a and bottom 140b,150b exterior edges on the first surface 101 and second surface of the apparatus 10. The edges 140, 150 can have a radiused edge to better enable a user to insert the shoelace as well as promote movement of the shoelace during tensioning.

In some exemplary embodiments, a groove edge or interfacing edge 113 can have a generally V-shape orientation as shown in FIG. 1. The groove edge 113a,b can interface with a shoelace and lock the lace into a first position. The groove edge 113 can be formed generally with a first angular portion 114 and a second angular portion 115. The angular portions 114,115 can be chamfered 119 or angular on the second side to allow a shoelace to pass through the aperture upon initial insertion into the aperture 104,105 at a first direction from the second side of the apparatus through the aperture onto the first side of the apparatus. The chamfered edge provides little to no resistance for the shoelace as it is pulled through the aperture. The structure of the groove edge 113 allows a user to easily tighten the shoelace after it has been run through the apparatus as shown in FIGS. 9A-B.

The geometry configuration of the groove edge 113 allows for the laces to easily pass into and through the aperture in a first direction and to tighten the shoelace but prevents the lace from rebounding or moving back from the direction of origin without moving the lace laterally out of the groove edge portion 113. In exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 10 can be used with an elastomeric shoelace wherein the groove edge 113 configuration digs into or engages the shoelace composition to lock it in place and prevent it from moving back in the direction it was originally ran through the aperture. The shoelace can be a solid elastomer lace or cord. The elastomeric material properties of a solid elastomer do not allow for compression, but rather deflect creating a bulge on either side of the groove edge 113 of the respective aperture when the lace is secured and able to better maintain position without slipping.

In some exemplary embodiments, a first side of the groove edge portion 113 can include flat or planar surface 121 to better interface with a portion of a shoelace and prevent it from slipping back from the initial direction it was put through the aperture. The groove engagement member 113 allows for a user to provide more tension, which in turn provides greater engagement by the groove edge 113. As more tension is applied laterally to the side of the groove edge 113, the tighter the engagement and more secure the lace becomes within the groove edge 113.

In other exemplary embodiments, the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 can be formed as a singular aperture similar to that shown in FIG. 10, wherein a first edge of each of the ends of the aperture can have a groove edge to interface with a portion of a shoelace 200. The individual aperture configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 can allow a user to more easily ensure that the correct shoelace end is inserted into the corresponding aperture.

A third aperture 106 can be formed below the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 and can take any suitable shape. The third aperture can be flanked on each end of the aperture 106 by a first aperture portion 161 and a second aperture portion 162. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second aperture portions can be generally circular in orientation. The first and second aperture portions 161, 162 can each have a first diameter at a first end 164 of the portions and a second diameter at a second end 166 of the relative portions. The second end 166 can have an edge 167 to better engage or interface with the shoelace portion and prevent the lace from moving back the opposite direction after being engaged with the edge 167. The edge 167 can be sharp to dig into the elastomeric lace when pulled in the opposite direction. In some exemplary embodiments, the sidewall 168 of the first and second aperture portions 161,162 can be angular as shown in FIG. 8. A first diameter can be greater than the second diameter. In other embodiments, the two diameters can be the same.

In some exemplary embodiments, the shoelace used can have a diameter that can be greater than or equal to the diameter of the second end of the circular portions 161,162 of the aperture 106 to further secure the shoelace ends in a secured and tucked position. The taper or angular configuration can allow a user to tighten a shoelace when pulling through the apparatus as shown in FIG. 9B. The taper can resist the lace from loosening as the narrower diameter on the second end can have an edge 167 to interface with the lace when being pulled in the opposite direction. Additionally, in some embodiments, the edge 167 can interface with the lace portion 200 to further lock the lace into position by the edge digging into the lace. To release the lace, the ends 201,202 need to be removed from the circular portions 161, 162 and positioned within the middle of the channel between the two circular portions. The top edge and bottom edges of the various apertures can be radiused to allow for laces to smoothly move in and out of the aperture and not bind or be pinched by the edges of the apertures. The shoelace ends can be further locked into position by inserting and looping the shoelace ends into the third aperture 106. This can keep the laces tucked under when a user is in movement and keep the shoelace ends from being loose. In some exemplary embodiments, circular apertures 161,162 can provide a secondary securing or locking of the shoelace ends 201,202 to maintain their position in a user's desired position.

In some exemplary embodiments, the third aperture 106 can include a channel opening 108 positioned generally in the middle that can extend all the way to the sidewall 103. The channel opening 108 can allow a user to easily pull the shoelace ends through the channel opening 108 and then pulled in opposite directions into their respective circular portions 161, 162 of the third aperture 106. The channel opening 108 can form a first hook portion 181 and second hook portion 182 of the body 100 of the apparatus 10. In embodiments containing a channel opening 108, the interior sidewall of the third aperture 106 can be formed as part of the continuous sidewall 103 of the apparatus. The third aperture 106 can be designed to receive and secure the loose ends of a lace secured by the first aperture 104 and second aperture, wherein the loose ends are placed or looped back into the second aperture 105 from the first side 101 of the apparatus 10 structure 100. The channel opening can have a width greater than the diameter of a shoelace.

As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the second side 102 of the apparatus can include a corresponding slot or channel 117a,b formed into the surface of the body 100 that can extend from a portion of each of the respective apertures 104, 105 to the corresponding sidewall proximate to the apertures 104,105. The channels 117 can be configured to help guide the shoelaces through the apertures 104,105 when a shoelace end is first inserted from the second side 102 of the apparatus through the aperture 104,105 and to the first side 101 of the apparatus. The channels 117 can have a generally round shape and rounded beveled sidewall 118 that can allow for a shoelace to easily move through the channel 117 and into the corresponding aperture 104, 105. Additionally, when the shoelace 200 is fully engaged in the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105, as well as the third aperture 106 and a user desires to tighten the shoelace 200, the channels can allow for the shoelace to easily move as additional pressure is applied to tighten the laces.

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the apparatus further showing the channel opening 108 and the first arm or hook portion 181 and second arm or hook portion 182 of the apparatus 10. The channel opening 108 can provide greater ease to maneuver the lace ends 201,202 into position within the third aperture 106. It should be understood that the channel opening 108 is optional and may not be necessary. A user can easily turn the apparatus 10 one way and then the opposite direction to guide the shoelace ends into the third aperture 106 rather than having to attempt to feed and guide the loose ends through a hole.

As shown in FIG. 9A-B, a first end 201 of a shoelace can be positioned through the first aperture 104 and a second end 202 of a shoelace can be positioned through the second aperture 105. The laces can be pulled from the second side 102 through to the first side 101 of the apparatus 10 and then pulled through the groove of the third aperture 106 and pulled in opposite directions against the circular apertures 161,162 to further tighten the laces. In some exemplary embodiments, the laces are elastomeric. The laces can be tightened and locked by interfacing the groove edge 113 of the apparatus 10. The laces can be easily loosened by disengaging the laces with the third aperture 106 and pulling on one or more of the laces in the opposite direction of the groove edge 113. The elastomeric properties of the shoelaces can ensure that the groove edge 113 engages the lace to prevent the lace from slipping.

As part of the lacing system, a user can lace a shoe 20 with an elastomeric shoelace 200. The shoelace 200 would have a first end 201 and a second end 202. The first end 201 can be inserted into the first aperture 104 at a first angle corresponding the angular sidewall 107 of the aperture 104. The shoelace can then be optional locked into the respective groove edge 113 initially. The user can then loop the lace end down through and into the third aperture 106 and into the respective circular portion 161. The second end 202 of the of the lace can then be fed through the apparatus from the second side 102 to through the second aperture 105 to the first side 101. Once the lace is pulled through to a desired length or tension the second end of the shoelace can then be looped down and into the third aperture 106 and positioned within the respective aperture portion 162. Even after the lace ends 201,202 have been positioned into the third aperture 106 respective aperture portions 161,162, the lace ends can be further pulled by a user in opposite directions outwardly from each other to further tighten the laces or add additional tension securing the laces in a desired position as shown in FIG. 9A. If a user desires to release tension of the shoelace 200, they can remove one or both of the shoelace ends from the third aperture portions and disengage one or both of the shoelace ends from the respective grooved edge 113 by pulling the shoelace in a direction away from the groove edge 113.

FIG. 10 illustrates another exemplary embodiment that can include a singular aperture generally having a shape derived from three connected apertures that can include a first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 flanking a central aperture 110 connected by a channel. generally circular apertures 104, 105 with a central circular aperture 110 positioned at a central position relative to the length of the structure 100 having a size greater than a pair of smaller end apertures 104, 105 defining the ends of the top aperture 104. The shape of the first aperture 110 and the diameters of the connected apertures 104, 105 can be selected to correspond to a size of a lace that is secured within the apparatus 10, wherein this size could be considered undersized relative to a diameter of the lace to lock the cord into place during use. Similarly, the apertures 104, 105 could have one or more interfacing grooves to further lock in the lace portions. Accordingly, the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 can be designed to lock or secure the lace into a position by placing a pair of corresponding lace ends into the central circle 110 portion of the aperture and tightening lace to a desired tension and then moving the lace ends apart and wedging them into the corresponding end apertures 104, 105.

The first and second aperture interior edges can be generally beveled or curved with a distinct radius to encourage locking or smooth movement of the lace member within the corresponding portion of aperture during use. In some exemplary embodiments, a bevel or curved edge can be different adjacent to the first side 101 and the second side 102, wherein a second edge adjacent the second side 102 has a second radius and a first edge adjacent the first side 101 has a first radius with the first radius greater than the second radius. The second radius can alternately be described as sharper or straighter when compared to the first radius, wherein the second radius is specifically configured to help secure the lace within the aperture 104. Alternatively, the aperture can include a similar grooved edge on a portion of the sidewall of the apertures 104, 105.

The third aperture 106 can be generally oval shaped and positioned at a central position relative to the length of the structure 100 and further positioned in a stacked position relative to the first aperture 104. Accordingly, the third aperture 106 is designed to receive and secure the loose ends of a lace secured by the first aperture 104, wherein the loose ends are placed or looped back into the third aperture 106 from the first side 101 of the apparatus 10 structure 100.

The apparatus 10 can be generally adapted to secure a corded or lace members to a desired tension by locking the lace within the first aperture 104 and second aperture 105 when the lace/cord is passed directionally through the apertures 104, 105 from the second side 102 to the first side 101 and then back into the third aperture 106 directionally from the first side 101 to the second side 102. As the ends of the s In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 10 is specifically configured for use with cords comprised of a solid thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to facilitate the inherent material property of deflection as opposed to compression for securing the TPU cord within the lace cinching apparatus.

The apparatus and system of the present disclosure provides advantages over other lace holder designs in that it provides a single apparatus with no moveable components. This results in low manufacturing costs as well as no wear components to break down from repetitive use. Additionally, the moveable components of prior art can be struck by a ball or impacted with the ground and can cause the release or loosening of the lace as well as potentially damage the lace holder. The use with the elastomeric lace also provides an improved lace design system for use in athletic purposes where consistent lace tightness is important for performance purposes. The ability to quickly tighten and loosen your laces as well as ensure that the laces do not come undone during competition is critically important improvement of the current apparatus.

While the invention has been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Upon reading the teachings of this disclosure many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is indeed intended that the scope of the invention should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.

Claims

1. A lace cinching apparatus for adjustably securing a shoelace on a shoe, comprising;

a first side, a second side, and a sidewall extending between the first side and the second side defining a body and shape of the apparatus, wherein a first aperture, a second aperture, and a third aperture are formed through the body of the apparatus,

wherein the first aperture has an aperture side wall having a first portion and a second portion, wherein a first portion of the first aperture sidewall includes a first grooved edge and the second aperture has an aperture sidewall having a first portion and a second portion, wherein a first portion of the second aperture sidewall includes a second grooved edge,

wherein the first grooved edge is configured to interface with a first shoelace portion and the second grooved edge is configured to interface with a second shoelace portion,

wherein the third aperture is configured to further secure a first end of the shoelace and a second end of the shoelace.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the third aperture further includes a first aperture portion and a second aperture portion, wherein the first aperture portion is positioned at a first end and the second aperture is positioned at a second end, wherein a channel is formed between the first aperture portion and the second aperture portion.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a channel opening extending from the bottom side of the apparatus and into the channel of the third aperture, wherein the channel opening forms a first hook portion and a second hook portion of the apparatus.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first aperture portion of the third aperture has a first end and a second end, wherein the diameter of the aperture at the first end is a first diameter, and the diameter of the first aperture portion at the second end is a second diameter and has an edge configured to interface a portion of the shoelace.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the grooved edge has a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the grooved edge is generally planar and the second side of the grooved edge is generally chamfered.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second side of the body of the apparatus includes a first channel extending from a first sidewall edge to the first aperture and a second channel extending from a second sidewall edge to the second aperture.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the shoelace is composed of an elastomer.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the shoelace has a diameter, wherein the diameter of the shoelace is greater than the second diameter.

10. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second portion of the first aperture sidewall is an angular wall and the second portion of the second aperture sidewall is an angular wall, wherein the angular walls are configured to guide the shoelace through the aperture from the second side to the first side.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the groove edge has a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the groove edge is planar and the second side of the groove edge is chamfered or radius.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second aperture portion of the third aperture has a first end and a second end, wherein the diameter of the second aperture at the first end is a first diameter, and the diameter of the second aperture portion at the second end is a second diameter and has an edge configured to interface a portion of the shoelace.

13. A shoelace and lace cinching system, comprising:

a shoelace comprised of an elastomeric material; and

a lace cinching apparatus for adjustably securing the shoelace on a shoe, comprising: a first side, a second side, and a sidewall defining a body and shape of the apparatus, wherein a first aperture, a second aperture, and a third aperture are formed through the body of the aperture, wherein the first aperture has an aperture side wall, wherein a portion of the first aperture sidewall includes a first grooved edge and the second aperture has an aperture sidewall, wherein a portion of the second aperture sidewall includes a second grooved edge, wherein the first grooved edge is configured to interface with a first shoelace portion and the second grooved edge is configured to interface with a second shoelace portion, wherein the third aperture is configured to further secure a first end of the shoelace and a second end of the shoelace.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein the third aperture further includes a first aperture portion and a second aperture portion, wherein the first aperture portion is positioned at a first end and the second aperture is positioned at a second end, wherein a channel is formed between the first aperture portion and the second aperture portion.

15. The system of claim 9, further comprising a channel opening extending from the bottom side of the apparatus and into the channel of the third aperture, wherein the channel opening forms a first hook portion and a second hook portion of the apparatus.

16. The system of claim 10, wherein the first shoelace portion and second shoelace portion extend around a middle portion of body portion located between the first and second apertures and the third aperture and then are positioned within the third aperture.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the shoelace has a first diameter.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the first aperture portion of the third aperture has a first end and a second end, wherein the diameter of the aperture at the first end is a first diameter, and the diameter of the first aperture portion at the second end is a second diameter.

19. The system of claim 13, wherein the first diameter of the shoelace is less than the first diameter of the diameter at the first end and greater than the diameter at the second end.

20. The system of claim 14, wherein the shoelace is comprised of TPU.