CA2375658A1 - Toe-free pantyhose - Google Patents

Abstract

Concise Summary:
I call this invention the "Toe-free" Pantyhose. And it is essentially, just that. Rather than having a reinforced toe area, there is a reinforced stripe that is slipped between an individuals big toe and the toe next to it. Just as one would start by putting on a pair of panty hose from their toes, so would this pair. However, the reinforced section that holds and properly secures the pantyhose is placed between the first two toes.
Therefore, the entire foot is covered, except the toes.
Technical Field:
The material used would vary. It may be the same nylon composition that we regularly see with pantyhose or it may be thicker and follow the material used in tights. In addition, if one decides to use this concept and extend it to the domain of tights, then once again the material would have to adapt to the change. For example, a ballerina or people in the dance profession may prefer to where such a design. In saying that, I think it is important to mention that I would like to paten the entire concept of toe-free leg wear.
Potential Materials (may include): Nylon, Spandex, Cotton, Lycra, and/or Denier. It should also be mentioned that some of the above listed material can be double covered, and therefore, providing better support in the required areas.

Description

February 25, 2002 Personal Information:
Elizabeth Teitsson 343$ Spirea Terrace Mississauga, Ontario Canadian Citizen Description:
The subject matter of this invention is rather simple. I call this invention the "Toe-free"
Pantyhose. And it is essentially, just that. Rather than having a reinforced toe area, there is a reinforced stripe that is slipped between an individuals big toe and the one beside it. So naturally, just as one would start by putting on a pair of panty hose from their toes, so would this pair.
However, the reinforced section that holds and properly secures the pantyhose is placed between the first two toes. Therefore, the entire foot is covered except for the toes.
This is a wonderful idea. It gives individuals the freedom of wearing open-toed shoes anytime of the year, and still maintaining the image of tanned legs and exposing their toes (as they should be, when wearing such styles of shoes).
Materials/Compositions:
The material used would vary. It may be the same nylon composition that we regularly see with pantyhose or it may be thicker and follow the material used in tights. In addition, if one decides to use this concept and extend it to the domain of tights, then once again the material would have to adapt to the change. For example, a ballerina or people in the dance profession may prefer to where such a design. In saying that, I think it is important to mention that 1 would like to paten the entire concept of toe flee leg wear.
Potential materials may range include: nylon, spandex, cotton, Lycra, and denier. It should also be mentioned that some of the above listed material can be double covered, and therefore, providing better support in the needed area.

In any event, this idea is absolutely ideal for outdoor and indoor wearing of open-toe shoes. The target market is extremely large and literally covers all domains; adults, adolescents, children, and infants-there is no gender restriction. Anyone who feels that he/she would benefit from this appearance and freedom of expression would be attracted to this product.
Objectives:
The main advantage this product has over the existing product, is exactly the "difference". That being the "toe-free" feature. The toe-free feature allows individuals to expose their toes, while wearing upen-toed sb~oes. vv'itlu our present fonr~s of pantyhose, the only kind you can buy are either reinforced-toe or the non-reinforced pantyhose. It is my objective to open up the pantyhose domain. To cater to this specific market by providing a worthwhile and useful product, such as the toe-free pantyhose concept. This product could come in all possible/desirable colours, sizes, and brands.
Depending upon the manufacturer, prices may range from .99 cents to designer prices of $ I 9.00 and upward (per pair). The only difference would be the quality that one manufacture has to offer that another can or cannot; in any event, it is up to the customer to make his/her purchasing decision.
Limitations/Feature:
In my opinion there are no apparent limitations. Primarily because this idea stems from an existing one, there are next to none. However, it may be necessary to mention that the quality of material will determine the overall longevity and durability of a particular pair of toe-frees.
However, being objective, a potential draw-back may be with the reinforced area that is slipped between the first two toes. That particular part of the pantyhose would need to be somewhat consistent with the standard material or may require a thicker consistency.
However, I am merely speculating, considering that the existing product is fully functional. I am under the belief that the current material would be sufficient.

I do not foresee any laboratory or commercial tests that would illustrate either preferred practice or conditions in which this product would be deemed unfavourable and/or hazardous.
Previous Disclosure:
I made contact with a company called International Technology Exchange.
Despite my initial instincts, I regret that I did not seek a patent prior to my contact.
International Technology Exchange are very optimistic about my idea. They feel that the success rate and potential worldwide is enormous. Thereafter my contact, I have spoken with Carol McDonald (who is my direct contact person). International Technology Exchange's address is 2 Haigh Terrace, Dun Loaghaire, Dublin, Ireland.
Relevant Patents:
I went through the online patent search and did not find any relevant patents.
This idea is unique and apparently un-thought of. I am not entirely sure exactly what is meant by "relevant" so I will list a patent that has altered the general idea of the standard pantyhose.
Patent Number: CA 1061501 One-Piece Pantyhose Construction Inventor: Walter H. Imboden, Burlington Industries Issued: September 4, 1979 Similarities: The bottom/foot part of the pantyhose has been altered.
Differences: This idea stops at the ankle and does not continue. Mine still fits onto the base of the foot, and has a reinforced area that is slipped between the first two toes.
Ideally, I would like to file for patent in all major countries if possible.
If not, I would want the North American Market (Canada & the United States).
I have attached a sketch of my idea, in hope that it may be better understood.
If there are any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me directly at 905/824-2040 or 416/788-2045.
Thank y a f our time and consideration, Elizabeth Teit on

Claims (4)

1. An extension of the traditional pair of pantyhose, however enhance to satisfy the appearance of tanned legs while being able to display ones toes.

2. Offers comfort, durability, and the "reality" of open toes while wearing panty hose.

3. Ideally, designed for the purpose of wearing open toe shoes, however it is not limited to just that.

4. New wave, diverse leg-wear appropriate for anyone (male or female) that may benefit from the comfort of toe-free leg wear/pantyhose.