US20070032148A1 - Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins - Google Patents
Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins Download PDFInfo
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- US20070032148A1 US20070032148A1 US11/545,227 US54522706A US2007032148A1 US 20070032148 A1 US20070032148 A1 US 20070032148A1 US 54522706 A US54522706 A US 54522706A US 2007032148 A1 US2007032148 A1 US 2007032148A1
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- Prior art keywords
- strap
- heel
- instep
- adjustable
- secured
- Prior art date
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B31/00—Swimming aids
- A63B31/08—Swim fins, flippers or other swimming aids held by, or attachable to, the hands, arms, feet or legs
- A63B31/10—Swim fins, flippers or other swimming aids held by, or attachable to, the hands, arms, feet or legs held by, or attachable to, the hands or feet
- A63B31/11—Swim fins, flippers or other swimming aids held by, or attachable to, the hands, arms, feet or legs held by, or attachable to, the hands or feet attachable only to the feet
Definitions
- This invention relates to foot strap structures, and more specifically to foot strap structures for swim fins.
- Prior art swim fin strap structures do not offer adequate sizing adjustability and adjustable security harness structures to prevent loss of the swim fin during rough water conditions such as heavy surf.
- Prior art tethers used as security devices for prevention of loss of surf fins are designed for surf fins having non-adjustable heel straps that are permanently molded to one size. Non-adjustable heel straps prevent compensation for slight variations in size and also do not allow for preferences in the degree of tightness of such heel straps.
- Such prior art tethers are also difficult to take off in the water and the user often must walk up onto dry land while still wearing the fins before being able to disconnect the tether and then remove the fin. For the same reasons, many such devices must be put one and engaged while on dry land.
- Prior art adjustable heel straps are highly susceptible to loss in high surf conditions as the flexible strap material is easily pulled down the heel and off the foot by large waves. This is particularly a problem with bare feet or fin socks that lack a thick and rigid rubber sole.
- swim fin adjustable strap structures that are adjustable in multiple ways and dimensions relative to the user's ankle, including sizing, tightness, security, comfort and positioning;
- swim fin adjustable strap structures that provide a more solid grip around the ankle so that increased leverage can be applied to the swim fin blade for increased power, speed, torque and control;
- swim fin adjustable strap structures that permit surf fins to be made with injection molded thermoplastics for increased manufacturing efficiency and style while also providing improved security from losing such surf fins in large surf or large wave conditions;
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of a swim fin having a dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap.
- FIG. 2 shows a rear view of the same dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows a rear view of alternate embodiment dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of a swim fin having a dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap.
- An adjustable swim fin 100 is seen to have a foot pocket 102 , a stiffer region 103 , a blade 104 , a post connector 106 shown by a dotted line to be behind a buckle connector 108 , and an adjustable buckle assembly 109 .
- Foot pocket 102 is preferably made with a thermoplastic material that is injection molded; however, it may be made with any material or processes. These include compression molded rubber or fabric materials secured with chemical or mechanical bonds. Foot pocket 102 may also be made to be adjustable.
- Stiffer portion 103 is preferably made with a more rigid material than used for foot pocket 102 in order to provide support to the foot pocket for energy transference to blade 104 as well as structural support for post connector.
- 106 which is also preferably made with a relatively stiff material. However portion 103 may also be made with the same material as foot pocket 102 or more flexible materials as well.
- Post 106 is seen to be behind connector 108 ; however, post 106 may be positioned and secured to connector 108 in any desirable manner.
- Post 106 is seen to have a round shape; however, post 106 may have any desired shape.
- Buckle connector 108 is used to secure a strap 110 to swim fin 100 .
- Buckle connector 108 may also take any desired form and may provide any desired method of connecting strap 110 to swim fin 100 . This includes; rivets, snaps, locks, hooks, chemical bonds, mechanical bonds or any other desired method.
- Buckle 112 is secured to connector 108 in any desired manner. Buckle 112 and 108 may alternatively be made as the same part. Buckle 112 is preferably connected to connector 108 with a quick release connector 114 , part of which is shown extending from an opening in connector 108 . Buckle 112 preferably permits two-way adjustment of the length and tension of strap 110 .
- a heel strap end 116 preferably has a blocking device, such as a bump, fold, or other suitable blocking feature that prevents strap 110 from unintentionally slipping through buckle 112 and becoming unintentionally disengaged.
- strap 110 is tightened by pulling on strap end 116 and loosened by manipulating the release of tension via buckle 112 in any desired; however, it is preferred that release of tension is accomplished by depressing or lifting a release button or lever.
- Buckle 112 is preferably made with a thermoplastic material but may be made with any desired material including metals. Strap 110 may be secured to swim fin 110 with any adjustable mechanism desired, including the use of D-rings, cam connectors, loops, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, ties or any other suitable adjustment mechanisms. Strap 110 is preferably made with a fabric, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic rubber, a compression-molded rubber, a plastic, or a woven material; however, any desired material may be used.
- Strap 110 is seen to pass through a heel pad assembly 118 .
- Heel pad assembly 118 preferably has a sleeve opening 120 for receiving strap 110 ; however any method of attaching strap 110 to pad 118 may be used.
- Sleeve 120 is preferably made of fabric or woven material sewn together; however, any material and method of connection or fabrication may be used. This may include fasteners, clasps, ties, loops, folds, hook and loop fasteners or any other suitable devices. While it is preferred that sleeve 120 permits strap 110 to move within pad 118 for maximum adjustability, pad 118 may be secured to strap 110 in any desired manner that is either movable, non-movable or permanent.
- pad 118 is not sufficiently movable relative to strap 110 , then if the user tightens heel strap end 116 only on one side of swim fin 100 , or pulls more on one side of swim fin 100 than on the other side, then pad 118 will to shift over toward that side of swim fin 100 that has been pulled further pad 118 will shift off center of the user's heel.
- pad 118 By permitting pad 118 to be movable along strap 118 , the positioning of pad 118 along the center of the user's heel can be adjusted and, or maintained if heel strap end 116 is pulled on only one side of the fin, or more on one side than the other.
- pad 118 is seen to be separated from buckle 112 by a significant distance to allow easy adjustment of tension within strap 110 while significantly preventing pad 118 from pushing against or jamming within buckle 112 during such adjustments in tension.
- pad 118 is spaced from buckle 112 and does not impede the function of buckle 112 during adjustment.
- pad 118 be located at the rear heel portion of the user's foot, alternate embodiments could place pad 118 to at least one side of the user's heel, both sides of the user's heel, or both sides and the back of the user's heel, preferably at a sufficient distance from buckle 112 to prevent jamming.
- Pad 118 is seen to have an outside surface 122 and a cushion 124 between strap 110 and the user's heel.
- Cushion 124 is preferably made with fabric covered neoprene foam, a padded fabric, rubberized fabric, fabric covered rubber, foam rubber, foam elastomer, or any other suitable padded material. Preferably, cushion 124 has sufficient padding to increase comfort and reduce chaffing or pressure points from strap 110 . Cushion 124 may be secured to pad 118 in any desirable manner such as stitching, snaps, hook and loop fasteners,
- An instep strap 126 is connected to pad 118 with an adjustable buckle 128 for adjusting the sizing and tension of instep strap 126 .
- Strap 126 is preferably made with a woven material, but other materials may be used as well, including thermoplastic materials, rubber, rubber-like materials, or any desired material.
- buckle 128 may employ any adjustable mechanism desired, including the use of D-rings, cam connectors, loops, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, ties or any other suitable adjustment mechanisms.
- Buckle 128 is preferably secured to pad 118 with a quick release connector 132 to provide quick and easy release of instep strap 118 while in the water if desired.
- both ends of instep strap 126 may have quick disconnect devices to permit instep strap 126 to be completely removed when water conditions are not rough or when additional ankle support is not desired. Other alternate embodiments can be used without any quick release devices whatsoever if desired.
- An instep cushion 134 is secured to instep strap 126 adjacent the instep region of the user's ankle or foot. Pad 134 may be made with fabric covered neoprene foam and sewn to instep strap 126 ; however, any material or method of connection may be used.
- An instep strap end 136 preferably has a bump, fold, knob, or other suitable stopping device that prevents instep strap end 136 from slipping through buckle 130 unintentionally.
- heel strap end 116 may easily pull on heel strap end 116 to create desired fit and tension around the back of the heel and then pull on instep strap end 136 to create desired tension and fit around the front of the user's ankle and instep region. Together, this provides a dramatic improvement in security, fit, comfort, and feel.
- heel strap 110 slightly with buckle 112 and then tightening instep strap end 136 , the position of heel pad 118 is elevated higher on the user's heel for changes in comfort, leverage, feel, and for adapting to variations in foot shape and contour.
- heel pad 118 may be lowered on the user's ankle for further positioning adjustment.
- instep strap 126 is able to prevent the highly flexible heel strap 110 from falling down the heel and off the foot during use, the swim fin cannot be lost even in the roughest surf conditions.
- instep strap 126 connects to heel pad 118 at the rear portion of the user's heel, instep strap 126 wraps around the entire ankle region and provides even support to the sides of the user's ankle as well for increased support, comfort and security. This redistributes the load around the entire ankle for increased support and reduced pressure points.
- heel strap 110 and instep strap 126 are adjusted for optimum contouring, fit, tension, comfort, and support, loose play between the user's foot and swim fin 100 is greatly reduced or even eliminated entirely. This greatly reduces chaffing and blisters on the user's foot within foot pocket 102 . This can significantly increase the swimmer's ability to kick hard and fast for long durations in high surf conditions with reduced discomfort and pain.
- the fully adjustable circum ankle support and distributed tension reduces ankle fatigue and strain to tendons and ligaments, especially during the demands of swimming in high surf conditions.
- the methods of the present invention may also be used on any desired swim fin. This includes snorkel fins, triathlon fins, fitness fins, free diving fins, monofins, beach rescue fins, ocean rescue fins, and scuba fins.
- FIG. 2 shows a rear view of the same dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap shown in FIG. 1 , except that the strap assemblies have been removed from swim fin 100 in FIG. 1 .
- quick release connectors 114 are disconnected from buckle connectors 108 in order to show that connectors 114 are preferably three pronged connectors.
- Connectors 114 are male fittings and connectors 108 are female fittings.
- alternate embodiments can have at least one portion of the assembly either have a permanent connection, semi-permanent connection, or non-quick release connection to the swim fin.
- buckle connector 108 Dotted lines within buckle connector 108 show that the opposite side of connector 108 has a post-receiving cavity 138 that is designed to receive and interlock with a post structure secured to a swim fin.
- Post-receiving cavity 138 and its corresponding post structure located on the swim fin may have any desired shape, configuration or method of connection.
- Buckle 130 is seen to have a quick release male connector 140 that has been disconnected from connector 132 , which is a female connector.
- Connector 132 is connected to pad 118 with a strap base 142 that is preferably made with a fabric material and sewn to pad 118 ; however, connector 132 may be connected to pad 118 in any desired manner.
- Strap 126 is seen to have an instep strap base 144 , which is preferably sewn to pad 118 ; however, any method of connection-may be used.
- FIG. 3 shows a rear view of alternate embodiment of an adjustable buckle assembly 145 .
- a non-quick release buckle connector 146 is connected to Buckle 112 .
- An instep strap 143 is used.
- a post receiving cavity 148 is located on the opposite side of connector 146 . Cavity 148 is displayed by a dotted line and may have any desired shape.
- buckle 112 may be connected directly to the swim fin, connected to a section of strap material that is riveted or bolted to the swim fin, pinned to the swim fin, or is molded to the swim fin.
- a quick release male connector 150 is connected to instep strap 143 .
- a quick release female connector 152 is connected to pad 118 with a connector base 154 .
- An adjustable buckle 156 is connected to pad 118 with a connector base 158 .
- Connector bases 154 and 158 are preferably made with fabric sewn to pad 118 ; however any method of connection may be used, including any chemical or mechanical bond.
- An instep strap end 160 is located adjacent buckle 156 . In alternate embodiments, an additional quick release connector may be attached to buckle 156 in order to permit instep strap 143 .
- An inside surface 162 is preferably padded with a soft material.
- swim fin adjustable strap structures that are adjustable in multiple ways and dimensions relative to the user's ankle, including sizing, tightness, security, comfort and positioning;
- (e) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted in the water to provide fine-tuned fit around the heel and ankle for maximum security, efficiency, and comfort;
- swim fin adjustable strap structures that provide a more solid grip around the ankle so that increased leverage can be applied to the swim fin blade for increased power, speed, torque and control;
- (g) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that permit surf fins to be made with injection molded thermoplastics for increased manufacturing efficiency and style while also providing improved security from losing such surf fins in large surf conditions;
- (h) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that have sufficient adjustability to permit a lower quantity of foot pocket cavity sizes to fit a larger array of foot sizes and shapes;
- (j) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures having adjustability in numerous dimensions for improved comfort, adaptability, and support;
- (k) provide improved leverage on the swim fin blade during kicking from the instep portion of the ankle through adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted on both sides of the ankle to significantly reduce loose play between the blade and the ankle;
- (l) provide dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap foot attachment assemblies that permit each portion to be easily adjusted without impeding the function or adjustment of the other portion.
- the heel pad and instep strap assemblies can be made to be completely removable from the heel strap without disconnecting the ends of the heel strap or without having to slide the heel strap through the heel pad.
- An access slot or opening with a locking device can be used to connect the instep strap to the heel slide the heel strap through any structure.
- the instep strap and adjustment buckles can be secured directly to the heel strap without using a heel pad. These can be removable, adjustable or permanent connections.
- the buckles, quick disconnect structures, or locking features can be located at any position along the heel strap and instep strap.
- the instep strap can also be molded together with the heel strap with one piece of thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic rubber, compression molded rubber, or cut out of one piece of woven material, plastic sheeting, rubber sheeting, laminate sheeting, or other suitable materials.
- the instep strap could be made with a highly elastic material capable of stretching and therefore not need an adjustment end and could just be a closed loop of material created at the same time as the heel strap.
Abstract
Description
- 1. Field of Invention
- This invention relates to foot strap structures, and more specifically to foot strap structures for swim fins.
- 2. Description of Prior Art
- Prior art swim fin strap structures do not offer adequate sizing adjustability and adjustable security harness structures to prevent loss of the swim fin during rough water conditions such as heavy surf. Prior art tethers used as security devices for prevention of loss of surf fins are designed for surf fins having non-adjustable heel straps that are permanently molded to one size. Non-adjustable heel straps prevent compensation for slight variations in size and also do not allow for preferences in the degree of tightness of such heel straps. Such prior art tethers are also difficult to take off in the water and the user often must walk up onto dry land while still wearing the fins before being able to disconnect the tether and then remove the fin. For the same reasons, many such devices must be put one and engaged while on dry land. Both of these situations are undesirable since wading in water is more difficult while wearing fins. The play between the user's foot and the foot pocket due to the lack of sufficient adjustability with non-adjustable surf fin heel straps cause significantly reduced propulsion during kicking strokes as well as chaffing of the skin, bruises and blisters, especially in rough water conditions. The occurrence of chaffing, bruises and blisters can greatly reduced endurance and enjoyment. Prior art straps also do not properly address the need for multi-dimensional adjustable support of the ankle region during strenuous kicking strokes.
- Prior art adjustable heel straps are highly susceptible to loss in high surf conditions as the flexible strap material is easily pulled down the heel and off the foot by large waves. This is particularly a problem with bare feet or fin socks that lack a thick and rigid rubber sole.
- Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present invention are:
- (a) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that are easy to put on and take off in the water;
- (b) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures having increased security for prevention of loss of fins in rough water conditions such as large surf and large open ocean waves;
- (c) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that are adjustable in multiple ways and dimensions relative to the user's ankle, including sizing, tightness, security, comfort and positioning;
- (d) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that reduce play between the foot and the swim fin with improved adjustability and support, thus increasing propulsion efficiency by reducing lost motion, chaffing and blisters;
- (e) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted in the water to provide fine-tuned fit around the heel and ankle for maximum security, efficiency, and comfort;
- (f) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that provide a more solid grip around the ankle so that increased leverage can be applied to the swim fin blade for increased power, speed, torque and control; (g) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that permit surf fins to be made with injection molded thermoplastics for increased manufacturing efficiency and style while also providing improved security from losing such surf fins in large surf or large wave conditions;
- (h) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that have sufficient adjustability to permit a lower quantity of foot pocket cavity sizes to fit a larger array of foot sizes and shapes;
- (i) to provide improved ankle support with adjustability on both the heel and the instep of the ankle;
- (j) to provide swim fin adjustable strap structures having adjustability in numerous dimensions for improved comfort, adaptability, and support;
- (k) to provide improved leverage on the swim fin blade during kicking from the instep portion of the ankle through adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted on both sides of the ankle to significantly reduce loose play between the blade and the ankle; and
- (l) to provide dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap foot attachment assemblies that permit each portion to be easily adjusted without impeding the function or adjustment of the other portion.
- Still further objects and objectives will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.
-
FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of a swim fin having a dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap. -
FIG. 2 shows a rear view of the same dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 shows a rear view of alternate embodiment dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap. -
FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of a swim fin having a dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap. Anadjustable swim fin 100 is seen to have afoot pocket 102, astiffer region 103, ablade 104, apost connector 106 shown by a dotted line to be behind abuckle connector 108, and anadjustable buckle assembly 109.Foot pocket 102 is preferably made with a thermoplastic material that is injection molded; however, it may be made with any material or processes. These include compression molded rubber or fabric materials secured with chemical or mechanical bonds.Foot pocket 102 may also be made to be adjustable.Stiffer portion 103 is preferably made with a more rigid material than used forfoot pocket 102 in order to provide support to the foot pocket for energy transference toblade 104 as well as structural support for post connector. 106, which is also preferably made with a relatively stiff material. Howeverportion 103 may also be made with the same material asfoot pocket 102 or more flexible materials as well.Post 106 is seen to be behindconnector 108; however,post 106 may be positioned and secured toconnector 108 in any desirable manner.Post 106 is seen to have a round shape; however,post 106 may have any desired shape.Buckle connector 108 is used to secure astrap 110 to swim fin 100.Buckle connector 108 may also take any desired form and may provide any desired method of connectingstrap 110 to swim fin 100. This includes; rivets, snaps, locks, hooks, chemical bonds, mechanical bonds or any other desired method. - An
adjustable buckle 112 is secured toconnector 108 in any desired manner. Buckle 112 and 108 may alternatively be made as the same part. Buckle 112 is preferably connected toconnector 108 with aquick release connector 114, part of which is shown extending from an opening inconnector 108. Buckle 112 preferably permits two-way adjustment of the length and tension ofstrap 110. Aheel strap end 116 preferably has a blocking device, such as a bump, fold, or other suitable blocking feature that preventsstrap 110 from unintentionally slipping throughbuckle 112 and becoming unintentionally disengaged. Preferably,strap 110 is tightened by pulling onstrap end 116 and loosened by manipulating the release of tension viabuckle 112 in any desired; however, it is preferred that release of tension is accomplished by depressing or lifting a release button or lever. Buckle 112 is preferably made with a thermoplastic material but may be made with any desired material including metals.Strap 110 may be secured to swimfin 110 with any adjustable mechanism desired, including the use of D-rings, cam connectors, loops, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, ties or any other suitable adjustment mechanisms.Strap 110 is preferably made with a fabric, a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic rubber, a compression-molded rubber, a plastic, or a woven material; however, any desired material may be used. -
Strap 110 is seen to pass through aheel pad assembly 118.Heel pad assembly 118 preferably has a sleeve opening 120 for receivingstrap 110; however any method of attachingstrap 110 topad 118 may be used.Sleeve 120 is preferably made of fabric or woven material sewn together; however, any material and method of connection or fabrication may be used. This may include fasteners, clasps, ties, loops, folds, hook and loop fasteners or any other suitable devices. While it is preferred thatsleeve 120permits strap 110 to move withinpad 118 for maximum adjustability,pad 118 may be secured to strap 110 in any desired manner that is either movable, non-movable or permanent. Ifpad 118 is not sufficiently movable relative tostrap 110, then if the user tightensheel strap end 116 only on one side of swim fin 100, or pulls more on one side of swim fin 100 than on the other side, thenpad 118 will to shift over toward that side ofswim fin 100 that has been pulledfurther pad 118 will shift off center of the user's heel. By permittingpad 118 to be movable alongstrap 118, the positioning ofpad 118 along the center of the user's heel can be adjusted and, or maintained ifheel strap end 116 is pulled on only one side of the fin, or more on one side than the other. - The side edge of
pad 118 is seen to be separated frombuckle 112 by a significant distance to allow easy adjustment of tension withinstrap 110 while significantly preventingpad 118 from pushing against or jamming withinbuckle 112 during such adjustments in tension. When tension is increased,pad 118 is spaced frombuckle 112 and does not impede the function ofbuckle 112 during adjustment. While it is preferred thatpad 118 be located at the rear heel portion of the user's foot, alternate embodiments could place pad 118 to at least one side of the user's heel, both sides of the user's heel, or both sides and the back of the user's heel, preferably at a sufficient distance frombuckle 112 to prevent jamming.Pad 118 is seen to have anoutside surface 122 and acushion 124 betweenstrap 110 and the user's heel.Cushion 124 is preferably made with fabric covered neoprene foam, a padded fabric, rubberized fabric, fabric covered rubber, foam rubber, foam elastomer, or any other suitable padded material. Preferably,cushion 124 has sufficient padding to increase comfort and reduce chaffing or pressure points fromstrap 110.Cushion 124 may be secured to pad 118 in any desirable manner such as stitching, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, - An
instep strap 126 is connected to pad 118 with anadjustable buckle 128 for adjusting the sizing and tension ofinstep strap 126.Strap 126 is preferably made with a woven material, but other materials may be used as well, including thermoplastic materials, rubber, rubber-like materials, or any desired material. In alternate embodiments, buckle 128 may employ any adjustable mechanism desired, including the use of D-rings, cam connectors, loops, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, ties or any other suitable adjustment mechanisms.Buckle 128 is preferably secured to pad 118 with aquick release connector 132 to provide quick and easy release ofinstep strap 118 while in the water if desired. This permits the fins to be easily secured and taken off while in the water and prevents the user from having to wade long distances in and out of the water with fins on. In alternate embodiments, both ends ofinstep strap 126 may have quick disconnect devices to permitinstep strap 126 to be completely removed when water conditions are not rough or when additional ankle support is not desired. Other alternate embodiments can be used without any quick release devices whatsoever if desired. Aninstep cushion 134 is secured toinstep strap 126 adjacent the instep region of the user's ankle or foot.Pad 134 may be made with fabric covered neoprene foam and sewn toinstep strap 126; however, any material or method of connection may be used. Aninstep strap end 136 preferably has a bump, fold, knob, or other suitable stopping device that prevents instep strap end 136 from slipping throughbuckle 130 unintentionally. - The user may easily pull on
heel strap end 116 to create desired fit and tension around the back of the heel and then pull oninstep strap end 136 to create desired tension and fit around the front of the user's ankle and instep region. Together, this provides a dramatic improvement in security, fit, comfort, and feel. In addition, by looseningheel strap 110 slightly withbuckle 112 and then tighteninginstep strap end 136, the position ofheel pad 118 is elevated higher on the user's heel for changes in comfort, leverage, feel, and for adapting to variations in foot shape and contour. By slightly looseninginstep strap 126 with an adjustment to buckle 130,heel pad 118 may be lowered on the user's ankle for further positioning adjustment. Becauseinstep strap 126 is able to prevent the highlyflexible heel strap 110 from falling down the heel and off the foot during use, the swim fin cannot be lost even in the roughest surf conditions. By creating similar tension betweeninstep strap 126 andheel strap 110 so that both are optimally snug and fit for a particular user's foot, increased support of the ankle region is achieved. - As the user kicks swim
fin 100 forward (instep leading the direction of kick), tension exerted onheel pad 118 is immediately transferred toinstep strap 126 and frominstep strap 126 to the front of the user's ankle and instep region. This allows significantly more leverage to be exerted onblade 104 for increased propulsive power and efficiency. By having adjusted support and fit around both the instep and the heel, loads are distributed over both regions and reduced upon the Achilles tendon. Becauseinstep strap 126 connects toheel pad 118 at the rear portion of the user's heel,instep strap 126 wraps around the entire ankle region and provides even support to the sides of the user's ankle as well for increased support, comfort and security. This redistributes the load around the entire ankle for increased support and reduced pressure points. When bothheel strap 110 andinstep strap 126 are adjusted for optimum contouring, fit, tension, comfort, and support, loose play between the user's foot andswim fin 100 is greatly reduced or even eliminated entirely. This greatly reduces chaffing and blisters on the user's foot withinfoot pocket 102. This can significantly increase the swimmer's ability to kick hard and fast for long durations in high surf conditions with reduced discomfort and pain. The fully adjustable circum ankle support and distributed tension reduces ankle fatigue and strain to tendons and ligaments, especially during the demands of swimming in high surf conditions. In addition to use on surf fins, the methods of the present invention may also be used on any desired swim fin. This includes snorkel fins, triathlon fins, fitness fins, free diving fins, monofins, beach rescue fins, ocean rescue fins, and scuba fins. -
FIG. 2 shows a rear view of the same dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap shown inFIG. 1 , except that the strap assemblies have been removed fromswim fin 100 inFIG. 1 . InFIG. 2 ,quick release connectors 114 are disconnected frombuckle connectors 108 in order to show thatconnectors 114 are preferably three pronged connectors. However, any type of quick release connection may be used.Connectors 114 are male fittings andconnectors 108 are female fittings. Although it is preferable that the entire strap assembly be removable from a swim fin, alternate embodiments can have at least one portion of the assembly either have a permanent connection, semi-permanent connection, or non-quick release connection to the swim fin. Dotted lines withinbuckle connector 108 show that the opposite side ofconnector 108 has apost-receiving cavity 138 that is designed to receive and interlock with a post structure secured to a swim fin.Post-receiving cavity 138 and its corresponding post structure located on the swim fin may have any desired shape, configuration or method of connection.Buckle 130 is seen to have a quick release male connector 140 that has been disconnected fromconnector 132, which is a female connector.Connector 132 is connected to pad 118 with a strap base 142 that is preferably made with a fabric material and sewn to pad 118; however,connector 132 may be connected to pad 118 in any desired manner.Strap 126 is seen to have aninstep strap base 144, which is preferably sewn to pad 118; however, any method of connection-may be used. -
FIG. 3 shows a rear view of alternate embodiment of anadjustable buckle assembly 145. A non-quickrelease buckle connector 146 is connected to Buckle 112. An instep strap 143 is used. A post receiving cavity 148 is located on the opposite side ofconnector 146. Cavity 148 is displayed by a dotted line and may have any desired shape. Instead of using a post connection, buckle 112 may be connected directly to the swim fin, connected to a section of strap material that is riveted or bolted to the swim fin, pinned to the swim fin, or is molded to the swim fin. A quickrelease male connector 150 is connected to instep strap 143. A quick releasefemale connector 152 is connected to pad 118 with aconnector base 154. Anadjustable buckle 156 is connected to pad 118 with aconnector base 158.Connector bases instep strap end 160 is locatedadjacent buckle 156. In alternate embodiments, an additional quick release connector may be attached to buckle 156 in order to permit instep strap 143. Aninside surface 162 is preferably padded with a soft material. - Accordingly, the reader will see that the methods of the present invention provide a highly adjustable strap connection harness network that offer numerous advantages in that they:
- (a) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that are easy to put on and take off in the water;
- (b) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures having increased security for prevention of loss of fins in rough water conditions;
- (c) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that are adjustable in multiple ways and dimensions relative to the user's ankle, including sizing, tightness, security, comfort and positioning;
- (d) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that reduce play between the foot and the swim fin with improved adjustability and support, thus increasing propulsion efficiency by reducing lost motion, chaffing and blisters;
- (e) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted in the water to provide fine-tuned fit around the heel and ankle for maximum security, efficiency, and comfort;
- (f) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that provide a more solid grip around the ankle so that increased leverage can be applied to the swim fin blade for increased power, speed, torque and control;
- (g) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that permit surf fins to be made with injection molded thermoplastics for increased manufacturing efficiency and style while also providing improved security from losing such surf fins in large surf conditions;
- (h) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures that have sufficient adjustability to permit a lower quantity of foot pocket cavity sizes to fit a larger array of foot sizes and shapes;
- (i) provide improved ankle support with adjustability on both the heel and the instep of the ankle;
- (j) provide swim fin adjustable strap structures having adjustability in numerous dimensions for improved comfort, adaptability, and support;
- (k) provide improved leverage on the swim fin blade during kicking from the instep portion of the ankle through adjustable strap structures that can be adjusted on both sides of the ankle to significantly reduce loose play between the blade and the ankle; and
- (l) provide dual adjustable heel strap and instep strap foot attachment assemblies that permit each portion to be easily adjusted without impeding the function or adjustment of the other portion.
- Although the description above contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention.
- In addition, any of the embodiments and individual variations discussed in the above description may be interchanged and combined with one another in any desirable order, amount, arrangement, and configuration. For example, the heel pad and instep strap assemblies can be made to be completely removable from the heel strap without disconnecting the ends of the heel strap or without having to slide the heel strap through the heel pad. An access slot or opening with a locking device can be used to connect the instep strap to the heel slide the heel strap through any structure. Also, the instep strap and adjustment buckles can be secured directly to the heel strap without using a heel pad. These can be removable, adjustable or permanent connections. In other alternate embodiments, the buckles, quick disconnect structures, or locking features can be located at any position along the heel strap and instep strap. The instep strap can also be molded together with the heel strap with one piece of thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic rubber, compression molded rubber, or cut out of one piece of woven material, plastic sheeting, rubber sheeting, laminate sheeting, or other suitable materials. In such situations, the instep strap could be made with a highly elastic material capable of stretching and therefore not need an adjustment end and could just be a closed loop of material created at the same time as the heel strap.
- Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be determined not by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/545,227 US20070032148A1 (en) | 2005-01-28 | 2006-10-10 | Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/045,521 US20050186866A1 (en) | 2004-01-20 | 2005-01-28 | Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins |
US11/545,227 US20070032148A1 (en) | 2005-01-28 | 2006-10-10 | Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/045,521 Continuation US20050186866A1 (en) | 2004-01-20 | 2005-01-28 | Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070032148A1 true US20070032148A1 (en) | 2007-02-08 |
Family
ID=37718210
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/545,227 Abandoned US20070032148A1 (en) | 2005-01-28 | 2006-10-10 | Dual adjustable strap designs for swim fins |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20070032148A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD611237S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2010-03-09 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Cycling shoe insole |
ITGE20090013A1 (en) * | 2009-03-10 | 2010-09-11 | Scubapro Europ | HEEL-BELT ELEMENT FOR FINS FOR SWIMMING OR UNDERWATER ACTIVITIES |
USD630419S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2011-01-11 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Base plate for adjustable strap |
USD636983S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2011-05-03 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Cycling shoe |
US8628365B2 (en) * | 2012-05-24 | 2014-01-14 | Marlene Burdick | Swim fin |
US9364717B2 (en) | 2014-01-16 | 2016-06-14 | Kathleen Davis | Swimming fin |
Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5183424A (en) * | 1991-09-05 | 1993-02-02 | Field John D | Swimming flipper |
-
2006
- 2006-10-10 US US11/545,227 patent/US20070032148A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5183424A (en) * | 1991-09-05 | 1993-02-02 | Field John D | Swimming flipper |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITGE20090013A1 (en) * | 2009-03-10 | 2010-09-11 | Scubapro Europ | HEEL-BELT ELEMENT FOR FINS FOR SWIMMING OR UNDERWATER ACTIVITIES |
USD611237S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2010-03-09 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Cycling shoe insole |
USD630419S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2011-01-11 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Base plate for adjustable strap |
USD636983S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2011-05-03 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Cycling shoe |
USD645652S1 (en) | 2009-06-05 | 2011-09-27 | Dashamerica, Inc. | Cycling shoe |
US8628365B2 (en) * | 2012-05-24 | 2014-01-14 | Marlene Burdick | Swim fin |
US9364717B2 (en) | 2014-01-16 | 2016-06-14 | Kathleen Davis | Swimming fin |
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