GB2601196A

GB2601196A - Footwear fastening system

Info

Publication number: GB2601196A
Application number: GB2018475.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: William Frederick Dean Martin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-11-24
Filing date: 2020-11-24
Publication date: 2022-05-25
Anticipated expiration: 2040-11-24
Also published as: GB2601196A8; GB2601196B; WO2022112136A1; GB202018475D0

Abstract

An adjustable fastening system 100 is provided on an item of footwear 110 such as a ski boot. The fastening system comprises an insert 120 that is slidable within a retainer 130. A lace 140 is fastened to the insert and an attachment point 150 on the footwear. The insert is slidable within the retainer between a fastened configuration in which the lace is taut between the insert and the attachment point and an unfastened configuration in which the lace is slack between the insert and the attachment point. The retainer may have an aperture or channel 132 through which the lace passes and there may be a plurality of laces and apertures. The insert may have a rigid portion (410, Fig. 4) which may have a grip in the form of a pull ring 122 and a saw-tooth locking surface (126, Fig. 2A). A sprung clip 190 may engage with the locking surface. The insert may comprise a stretchable elastic material or resilient member (420, Fig. 4) that may be stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration. The fastening system may be on the rear or spine 160 of the footwear.

Description

FOOTWEAR FASTENING SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a fastening system for footwear that is adjustable by a user for tightening and/or loosening a fit of an item of footwear.

BACKGROUND

There are various ways to adjust the fit of an item of footwear. Traditionally, laces are passed through eyelets on the footwear and pulled taut by a user to tighten the footwear, then tied in a knot to hold tight the footwear. Some items of footwear, such as ski boots, have a mechanical binding with a ratchet-style closure and release clip.

However, whilst known techniques provide tightening of an item of footwear, these techniques do not allow the item of footwear to be loosened in an effective manner. For example, where laces are used to secure the item of footwear, the user may untie the knot and wriggle their foot within the footwear to loosen the fit. Similarly, for ski boots, the release clip allows the ratchet-style closure to be adjusted manually by the user. These known techniques merely provide a closure system that holds the fit in a tightened condition, whereby upon the user releasing the closure system the fit is no longer held in the tightened condition, allowing the user to manually loosen the fit.

It is an object of the invention to provide a fastening system that is adjustable by a user which can both tighten and loosen the fit of the item of footwear. The fastening system provided herein actively loosens the fit of the footwear when the user releases the fastening system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect there is provided a fastening system provided on an item of footwear, the fastening system comprising an insert slidable within a retainer, with a lace fastened to the insert and an attachment point on the footwear, the insert being slideable within the retainer between a fastened configuration in which the lace is taut between the insert and the attachment point and an unfastened configuration in which the lace is slack between the insert and the attachment point.

The retainer may have at least one aperture through which the lace passes, optionally the retainer comprising at least one channel through which the lace passes. The retainer may comprise a plurality of apertures through which the plurality of laces are threaded, optionally the retainer comprising a plurality of channels.

The insert may comprise a rigid portion, optionally a moulded rigid portion. The rigid portion may comprise a grip, optionally wherein the grip is a pull ring. The rigid portion may comprise a locking surface configured to cause the insert to be maintained in the fastened configuration, optionally wherein the locking surface comprises a saw-tooth locking surface.

The insert may comprise a terminal end fastened to the footwear and an opposing distal end, wherein the lace is fastened directly to the insert between the terminal end and distal end.

The fastening system may further comprise a sprung clip in cooperation with the locking surface, wherein the insert is in the unfastened configuration when the sprung clip is disengaged from the locking surface.

The lace may be fastened directly to the insert, optionally via stitching, or adhesive, or threading through insert loops or eyelets on the insert. The lace may terminate at a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and second end of the lace are fastened directly to the insert, optionally at adjacent fixture points along a width of the insert. The lace may comprise cord or Kevlar (RTM). The lace may be directly fastened to the insert at a fastening point, such that the lace is configured to move in unison with the insert at the fastening point, optionally wherein the retainer comprises a slot through which the fastening point can protrude. The lace may be configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

The fastening system may comprise a plurality of laces, wherein each of the plurality of laces is fastened directly to the insert at spaced intervals along a length of the insert.

The attachment point on the footwear may comprise a footwear loop through which the lace passes.

The insert may comprise a stretchable elastic material or resilient member that is stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration, optionally wherein the stretchable elastic material comprises a material selected from: an elastic webbing, elastic fabric, woven stretch knit material, stretchable rubber, neoprene, and silicon, or the resilient member comprises a spring or set of springs.

In the fastened configuration a length of the insert may be increased compared to in the unfastened configuration.

The fastening system may be positioned along a rear portion of the footwear.

According to a second aspect there is provided a fastening system provided on an item of footwear, the fastening system comprising an insert, wherein the insert is stretched in a fastened configuration and unstretched in an unfastened configuration, and a lace fastened to the insert at a fastening point and fastened to the footwear at an attachment point, such that the lace is configured to move in unison with the insert at the fastening point, wherein the lace is configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

The fastening point may comprise an insert loop or eyelet, optionally wherein the insert loop or eyelet is integrally formed with the insert.

The insert may comprise a stretchable elastic material or resilient member.

The lace may be configured to become taut between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration. The lace may be configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

The fastening system may further comprise a retainer and wherein the insert is slidable within the retainer, optionally wherein the retainer comprises a slot through which the fastening point can protrude.

The fastening system according to the first aspect may be provided in combination with the fastening system according to the second aspect.

The fastening system is provided on an item of footwear.

The fastening system comprises an insert. The fastening system comprises laces that are secured to the insert of the fastening system and to attachment points on the footwear. The insert is slidable to directly influence the tension in the laces to allow tightening and loosening of a fit of the item of footwear. When the laces become taut the fit of the footwear is tightened. When the laces become slack the fit of the footwear is loosened.

The fastening system may be provided on a portion of the footwear which may be a rear (or spine) portion, or may be a front (or tongue) portion.

The fastening system may be provided on a rear portion of the item of footwear, such as a boot. In such arrangements the laces may be attached to the fastening system and the rear portion and/or sides of the footwear. This allows the footwear to be tightened or loosened in the rear portion of the item of footwear, such that the footwear is tightened or loosened around the lower leg region.

The insert may have an elongated shape. This may allow the tightening and loosening of the footwear along a length of a portion of the footwear, such as the leg calf (rather than solely around the foot).

In the fastened configuration the laces are taut. In the unfastened configuration the laces are slack.

The fastening system may be provided on a front portion of the item of footwear, such as a shoe, for example a low-cut shoe. For example, the fastening system may be provided on a tongue of the footwear. The laces are attached to the fastening system and the front portion and/or sides of the footwear. This allows the footwear to be tightened or loosened at the front portion of the item of footwear.

The fastening system is adjustable to allow the user to tighten and/or loosen a fit of the item of footwear. The fastening system is arranged to allow a user to adjust the fit of the item of footwear to both tighten and loosen the fit of the item of footwear. The user may tighten the footwear by operating the fastening system in a single motion, for example using the action of one hand. The user may loosen the footwear by operating the fastening system in a single motion, for example using the action of one hand.

The fastening system may comprise a locking surface and a release clip. The locking surface and release clip allow the user to lock the fastening system to hold the fastening system in the fastened configuration (to hold tight the fit of the footwear). The locking surface and release clip allow the user to unlock the fastening system to release the fastening system into the unfastened configuration (to loosen the fit of the footwear). The locking surface and release clip on the insert allows the insert to be maintained in the fastened configuration when the user tightens the fit of the footwear. The release clip is configured to cooperate with the locking surface on the insert. The release clip comprises a cooperating surface to engage and disengage the locking surface. When the release clip is engaged with the locking surface the insert is in the fastened configuration. When the release clip is disengaged from the locking surface the insert is able to move to the unfastened configuration. When the release clip is unlocked (or released/disengaged) from the locking surface, the insert is free to move so as to be stretched or unstretched, for example under the influence of the user or to return to an unstretched state under the influence of release of potential energy.

The locking surface may be provided on the rigid portion of the insert. The locking surface may comprise a sawtooth locking surface, for example a toothed rack, such as a linear toothed rack. This allows the user to tighten and/or loosen the footwear in increments using a ratchet-style mechanism.

The release clip may comprise a sprung clip. This allows the user to easily unlock the fastening system. The release clip may comprise a nylon material. The cooperating surface of the release clip may be provided on a sprung pawl configured to cooperate with the locking surface, for example a sprung pawl configured to cooperate with a toothed rack of the locking surface.

The locking surface and release clip may be provided at an upper region or distal end of the fastening system opposite the sole of the footwear (at the lower region). This allows easy reach for the user to operate the fastening system, for example by bending over towards the footwear.

A grip may be provided on the fastening system to allow the user to grasp the grip to tighten the fit of the footwear. The grip may be provided at the distal end of the fastening system to allow easy reach to the user to tighten or loosen the fit of the footwear. The grip may comprise a pull ring. In preferred embodiments the grip is provided on the insert.

The insert may comprise a resilient portion. The insert of the fastening system is stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration. The resilient portion has a variable length which allows the laces to become taut to tighten the footwear, and to become slack and loosen the footwear. In the fastened configuration a length of the insert is increased compared to its length in the unfastened configuration. In the unfastened configuration the length of the insert is decreased compared to in the fastened configuration. The insert material (in particular the insert of the resilient portion) is selected so as to allow the fastening system to store the energy imparted by the user into the insert as potential energy. The insert stores the potential energy in the fastened configuration. The insert releases the potential energy when the fastening system is unlocked by the user. When the fastening system moves into the unfastened configuration the stored potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, thereby to relax the insert and returning the insert to its unstretched state. Upon moving from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration the insert directly influences the laces to cause the laces to slacken, thereby to loosen the footwear.

The resilient portion may comprise an elastic webbing, elastic fabric, woven stretch knit material, stretchable rubber, neoprene, silicon, metal spring or set of springs.

A locking action of the user pulling the insert to stretch the insert causes the insert to move from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration. When the user exerts a pull on the insert this causes the insert to stretch, thereby to cause the laces to become taut and tighten the footwear. When the insert moves from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration, the length of the insert is increased which allows the lace to become taut. The insert material resists the pull from the user and the user can lock the fastening system to hold the insert in the fastened configuration. The insert directly influences and urges the laces to become taut when the user pulls on the insert.

An unlocking action of the user releases the insert from the fastened configuration to enable the insert to move from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration. The insert naturally resists the pull from the user so when the fastening system is unlocked, the insert returns to its unstretched state, thereby to cause the laces to become slack and loosen the footwear. When the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration, the length of the insert is decreased which allows the laces to become slack. The insert directly influences and urges the laces to become slack when the user unlocks the fastening system.

The one or more laces are directly fastened to the insert. The laces are fastened directly to the insert such that the laces physically contact the insert. This allows the laces to move in unison with the insert at their fastening points. The laces become taut between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert moving from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration. The laces become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert moving from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

Each of the attachment points on the footwear may comprise a webbing loop or material loop portion on the footwear. The attachment points may be provided on the sides or lateral regions of the footwear. The attachment points are preferably each configured to enable the one or more laces to slide, or otherwise move, relative to the attachment point.

The resilient portion of the insert may comprise a stretchable elastic material or resilient member. When the insert comprises a stretchable elastic material, the material is stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration. When the insert comprises a resilient member, the resilient member may comprise a spring such that the resilient member is biased (stretched) in the fastened configuration and unbiased (unstretched) in the unfastened configuration. The laces are directly fastened to the stretchable elastic material or resilient member. This allows the stretchable elastic material or resilient member to directly influence the tension within the laces so as to cause the laces to become taut in the fastened configuration and slack in the unfastened configuration.

The stretchable elastic material comprises a material selected from an elastic webbing, elastic fabric, woven stretch knit material, stretchable rubber, neoprene, and silicon.

The resilient member comprises a spring or set of springs.

The insert may comprise a rigid portion. The rigid portion has a fixed length such that it does not extend in either the fastened configuration or unfastened configuration. The rigid portion may comprise the grip to allow the user to grasp the rigid portion of the insert and pull on the insert, to cause the laces to become taut to tighten the footwear. The locking surface may be provided on the rigid portion of the insert and may be provided at a distal end of the insert adjacent the grip.

The rigid portion may be integrally formed with the resilient portion. The rigid portion and stretchable elastic material or resilient member may be integrally formed. For example, the rigid portion may comprise a moulded plastics material which is attached to or surrounds a portion of the resilient portion. The rigid portion may comprise a moulded plastics material which is attached to or surrounds a portion of the stretchable elastic material or resilient member. In this way, the rigid portion and stretchable elastic material or resilient member are integrally formed. This provides for a stronger fastening system and improves the durability of the fastening system that can tolerate higher tension forces on the insert. For example, a user pulling on the rigid portion integrally formed, or integrated, with the stretchable elastic material or resilient member can transfer a tensioning force to the stretchable elastic material or resilient member. The tensioning force may be applied to the entire width of the resilient portion (as opposed to imparting a point force to a localised point on the stretchable elastic material or resilient member).

The fastening system may comprise an insert having a least two different integrally formed sections. The insert may be located within, and be slidable within, the retainer. The stretchable elastic material or resilient member integrally formed with the rigid portion are preferably formed from a different material to the rigid portion. The rigid portion preferably has a fixed length, and the resilient portion has a variable length.

The fastening system may comprise a retainer (or sleeve). The insert is slidable (or stretchable) within the retainer. The insert is slidable within the retainer between a fastened configuration and an unfastened configuration. For example, the resilient component of the insert may have a significant portion of its length that is encapsulated within the retainer in both the fastened and unfastened configurations, such that the length of the insert varies within the retainer. The retainer restricts movement of the insert to being slidable within the insert in the length direction (i.e. a longitudinal direction). The action of the laces becoming taut pulls the insert and attachment points on the footwear closer together, and the retainer acts to limit movement of the insert in the width direction (i.e. a direction generally at right angles to a longitudinal direction). The retainer protects the insert (in particular, the resilient portion) from damage or foreign substances that may inhibit the functioning of the insert to stretch and relax (become unstretched).

When the user pulls the insert of the fastening system, the insert is slidable within the retainer to allow the laces between the insert and the attachment points on the footwear to become taut. The laces become taut when tension is stored in the insert and/or laces. This allows the user to easily tighten the fit of the item of footwear. The user can lock the fastening system in the fastened configuration. When the user unlocks the fastening system, the fastening system moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration. In the unfastened configuration, the insert is slidable within the retainer to allow the laces between the insert and attachment points on the footwear to become slack.

The laces become slack when tension is released from the insert and/or laces. This allows the user to easily loosen the fit of the item of footwear.

The retainer may comprise a plastics material, a moulded material, and/or a thermoplastic polyurethane material.

The retainer comprises at least one aperture through which the laces can pass. This allows the laces to pass from the insert to the attachment points on the footwear. The retainer acts to limit movement of the laces to preferred regions on the footwear. For example, the apertures in the retainer may be provided along the length of the retainer adjacent to, or in alignment with, attachment points on the footwear. This enhances the tightening and loosening of the footwear in the preferred regions or attachment points. The retainer is configured to guide the laces through the apertures to allow the laces to slide through the apertures. The retainer is configured so as to impart a tensile force on the laces in preferred regions of the footwear.

The retainer may be provided with channels preferably having apertures to allow the laces to pass within the channels. A linear channel may be provided to maintain a position of the lace with respect to attachment points on the footwear. A nonlinear channel or curved channel may be provided to guide the laces from the attachment point on the footwear to the fastening point on the insert. This allows a smooth transition of the lace movement within the retainer to reduce frictional way on the laces. The apertures or channels on the retainer may be aligned with fastening points on the insert and/or attachment points on the footwear.

One or more laces are fastened to the insert of the fastening system. Where a plurality of laces is provided, the laces are fastened directly to the insert at spaced intervals along the length of the insert. This allows the footwear to be tightened or loosened at different points on the footwear. Each lace may be fastened to the insert at a first end and a second end of the lace. The first and second ends of the lace may be fastened directly to the insert at fastening points that are at the same point along the length of the insert, for example the fastening points may be adjacent one another along a width of the insert. This allows an even force to be imparted onto each end of the lace for the tightening or loosening of the fit of the footwear.

The insert is fastened (or attached) to the item of footwear. The insert may be fastened to the footwear at a terminal end of the insert. The terminal end may be adjacent the sole portion of the footwear. The terminal end is at an opposite end of the insert to the distal end. The insert fastened to the footwear holds one end of the insert on the footwear whilst the user pulls the insert at the distal end, i.e. one end of the insert is fixed to the footwear and the other end is unfixed. This allows a user to put their weight into the footwear whilst pulling the insert to tighten the footwear, enabling easier stretching of the insert.

The laces are preferably secured directly to the insert to enable the footwear to be tightened and loosened via movement of the insert. A user may pull the rigid portion of the insert to stretch the resilient portion. The laces may be fastened to the resilient portion.

Securing the laces directly to the resilient portion provides for a simpler design in which the tension in the resilient portion is transferred directly to the laces. This arrangement enhances influence of the insert on the laces for the tightening and loosening of the footwear.

The one or more laces are preferably fastened directly to the insert at fastening points between the terminal and distal ends of the insert. The laces may be attached to the insert via stitching. This provides a strong connection between the insert and the laces. Alternatively, the insert may be provided with fastening loops to allow easy threading of the laces to the insert. The loops may comprise a fold in webbing or material on the footwear.

The loops on the insert allow the laces to be passed through for easy feeding and changing of worn laces. The laces may then be tied or secured. In an example, the loops may comprise rigid loops or eyelets provided on the insert. The rigid loops may be formed from moulded plastics material and may be integrally formed with the rigid portion of the insert. This allows a worn lace to be replaced easily by the user.

The laces may comprise cord or Kevlar (RTM) material to provide strength and durability.

The laces may comprise nylon wire, plastic wire, metal wire, woven fabric which may be instead of, or in addition to, Kevlar (RTM) or woven Kevlar (RTM).

A base panel may be provided upon which to mount the fastening system on the footwear. The base panel is preferably secured to the footwear. The fastening system may be shaped to complement (or correspond with) the shape of the base panel. The base panel may comprise a moulded rubber. The base panel may be secured to the footwear using adhesive.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, integers or steps.

Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires: in particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Preferred features of each aspect of the invention may be as described in connection with any of the other aspects. Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1A and 1B are schematics showing a fastening system according to a first embodiment on a rear portion of an item of footwear; Figure 2A is a schematic showing the fastening system of the first embodiment in a fastened configuration; Figure 2B is a schematic showing the fastening system of the first embodiment in an unfastened configuration; Figure 3 is a schematic showing a base panel suitable for mounting the fastening system according to the invention to an item of footwear; Figure 4 is a schematic showing an insert of the fastening system according to the first embodiment; Figure 5 is a schematic showing a sprung clip of the fastening system according to the first embodiment; Figure 6 is a schematic showing a retainer of the fastening system according to the first embodiment; Figure 7 is a schematic showing laces passing through the retainer of the fastening system according to the first embodiment; Figures 8A and 8B are schematics showing the insert of the fastening system according to the first embodiment on the item of footwear (retainer not shown, for clarity); Figures 9A and 9B are schematics showing the retainer of the fastening system according to the first embodiment on the item of footwear (insert not shown, for clarity); Figure 10 is a schematic showing a fastening system according to a second embodiment on a rear portion of an item of footwear; Figure 11A is a schematic showing the fastening system according to the second embodiment in a fastened configuration; Figure 11B is a schematic showing the fastening system according to the second embodiment in an unfastened configuration; Figures 12A and 125 are schematics showing an insert for the fastening system according to the second embodiment, where Figure 12B is a cross-section through Figure 12A; Figure 13 is a schematic showing a retainer of the fastening system according to the second embodiment; Figures 14A and 14B are schematics showing the insert of the fastening system according to the second embodiment on an item of footwear (retainer not shown, for clarity); Figures 15A and 15B are schematics showing the retainer of the fastening system according to the second embodiment on an item of footwear (insert not shown, for clarity); Figure 16A is a schematic showing a fastening system according to a third embodiment in a fastened configuration; Figure 16B is a schematic showing the fastening system according to the third embodiment in an unfastened configuration; Figure 17 is a schematic showing the insert of the fastening system according to the third embodiment on an item of footwear (retainer not shown, for clarity); Figure 18 is a schematic showing the retainer of the fastening system according to the third embodiment on an item of footwear (insert not shown, for clarity); and Figures 19A, 19B and 19C are schematics showing respective dimensions of the insert, retainer, and clip according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

There is provided a fastening system for footwear. The fastening system is provided on the footwear, so that a user or wearer of the footwear can adjust the fastening system to tighten or loosen the fit of the footwear.

Three embodiments of the fastening system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each of the illustrated embodiments shares the following features.

The fastening system comprises an insert (or spine) which the user can pull to adjust the fit of the footwear. The insert is pulled by a user to tighten the footwear. The insert is stretched in a fastened configuration and unstretched in an unfastened configuration. The insert is configured to stretch in the fastened configuration and return to an unstretched state in the unfastened configuration. The insert comprises a resilient portion, such as a stretchable elastic material (or other resilient material).

The insert comprises a locking surface and release clip to allow the fastening system to be locked or unlocked to respectively tighten or loosen the fit of the footwear. The release clip is provided adjacent the locking surface, and when the release clip is released the insert is caused to move from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration, to cause the laces to slacken and thereby loosen the footwear.

The insert comprises a rigid portion. The rigid portion may comprise a grip, such as a pull ring, to allow the user to grasp the rigid portion of the insert and pull the insert to thereby impart a tensile force on the insert. The locking surface may be provided on the rigid portion.

The fastening system comprises one or more laces. The laces are directly attached to the insert at fastening points. In the fastened configuration the insert causes the laces to become taut thereby to tighten the footwear. In the unfastened configuration the insert causes the laces to become slack thereby to loosen the footwear. The laces pass from the fastening points on the insert to attachment points on the footwear. Each lace is configured to move in unison with the insert at the respective fastening point. The laces are configured to become taut between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration. The laces are configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

The fastening system may comprise a retainer (or sleeve). The retainer allows the laces to be tensioned in preferred locations on the footwear through apertures and/or channels provided on the retainer. The retainer surrounds (or envelops) the insert. The insert is slideable within the retainer between the fastened configuration in which the laces are taut between the insert and attachment points, and an unfastened configuration in which the laces are slack between the insert and attachment points. The retainer is provided with apertures and/or channels through which the laces pass from the fastening points on the insert to attachment points on the footwear. The apertures and/or channels are provided in the surface of the retainer such that the laces pass through the retainer from an inner surface to an outer surface of the retainer. The insert is slidable across the inner side of the retainer.

The retainer may surround a smaller portion of the rigid portion of the insert in the fastened configuration compared to the unfastened configuration. In both the fastened and unfastened configurations, the retainer surrounds a significant portion of the resilient portion of the insert, with a terminal end of the insert exiting the retainer for attachment to the footwear.

The fastening system is secured to the footwear. The retainer is secured to footwear. The insert is secured to the footwear and passes within the retainer. The fastening system is preferably mounted on a base panel which is in turn secured to the footwear so that the base panel is sandwiched between the fastening system and the footwear. The insert is secured to the retainer in the fastened configuration via the locking surface and release clip. The laces are secured to the insert and attachment points on the footwear.

The fastening system provided makes it easier for the user to tighten the fit of the footwear in a single action, for example using only one hand, to tighten and/or loosen the footwear.

The fastening system of each of the three illustrated embodiments will now be described, with reference to the figures.

First embodiment Figures 1 to 9 relate to a first embodiment of the fastening system. In the figures the fastening system 100 is provided on a rear portion 160 (or spine) of the item of footwear 110, though this embodiment encompasses other arrangements in which the fastening system 100 is located on a different part of the footwear or on a different item of footwear entirely.

Figures 1A and 1B are schematics showing a fastening system 100 according to a first embodiment mounted on an item of footwear 110. The fastening system 100 comprises an insert 120. The insert 120 is slidable within a retainer 130. One or more laces 140 are fastened both to the insert 120 and one or more respective attachment points 150 on the footwear 110. The insert 120 is slideable within the retainer 130 between a fastened configuration and an unfastened configuration. A release clip 190 is provided to engage with the insert to hold the fastening system in the fastened (locked) configuration or disengage with the insert to urge the fastening system to the unfastened (unlocked) configuration.

The insert 120 comprises a generally elongate member. It is secured to the footwear 110 at a terminal end 170 of the insert 120. The insert comprises a resilient portion, such as a stretchable elastic material (or other resilient material). A grip 122 is provided on the insert 120 at a distal end 180 opposite the terminal end 170 to allow the user to grasp the insert 120. In the illustrated embodiment the grip 122 comprises an aperture through which a user can hook a finger to thereby grasp the insert 120.

The insert 120 is best seen in Figure 4. The insert 120 comprises a rigid portion 410 and a resilient portion 420.

The resilient portion 420 has an adjustable length 430 that varies between the fastened and unfastened configurations. In the fastened configuration the length 430 of the insert is increased compared to in the unfastened configuration. In the fastened configuration when the insert 120 is placed under tension, for example, by a user or by engagement of a release clip 190 with a locking surface 126, the resilient portion 420 is stretched from the terminal end 170. This increases the length of the resilient portion 420 compared to the length from its unstretched (relaxed) state. In the unfastened configuration when the insert 120 is released from under tension, for example by a user disengaging the release clip 190 from the locking surface 126, the resilient portion 420 is relaxed towards the terminal end and able to return to its unstretched state, thereby decreasing the length 430 of the resilient portion 420.

The rigid portion 410 may be moulded to the resilient portion 420. The resilient portion 420 may overlap with the rigid portion 410 so that at least a part of the resilient portion 420 overlaps at least a part of the rigid portion 410. Alternatively, the rigid portion 410 may be moulded to the distal end of the resilient portion 420 so as to be connected at the end of the resilient portion 420. The insert 120 is secured to the item of footwear 110 at the terminal end 170. The insert 120 has an elongate shape.

The rigid portion 410 has a fixed length that remains the same in both the fastened and unfastened configurations. The insert 120 comprises the locking surface 126 to which the release clip 190 can be engaged or disengaged. The locking surface 126 and release clip 190 are provided to hold the fastening system in the fastened (locked) configuration or release it to the unfastened (unlocked) configuration. The rigid portion 410 comprises the locking surface 126 configured to cause the insert 120 to be maintained in the fastened configuration. The locking surface 126 may comprise the saw-tooth surface. The rigid portion 410 may be a moulded plastics material. The rigid portion 410 comprises the grip 122 at the distal end 180, such as a pull ring, for the user to grasp the insert 120. The grip 122 is provided on the insert 120 at the distal end 180 opposite the terminal end 170 to allow the user to grasp the insert 120. The grip 122 may be formed of moulded plastics material and integrally formed with the rigid portion 410 and locking surface 126, or may be formed from a loop of material that is attached to, or moulded, to the rigid portion 410.

The locking surface 126 of the insert 120 may comprise a saw-tooth surface, for example a toothed rack of a ratchet mechanism such as a linear rack. The release clip 190 may be a sprung clip so as to automatically bias the release clip 190 into the engaged configuration. For example, the release clip 190 may comprise a spring-loaded pawl suitable for engagement with a toothed rack of the locking surface 126. The fastening system 100 is locked by engagement of the release clip 190 on the locking surface 126 of the insert 120 as the user pulls the insert 120 to stretch the insert 120, optionally the resilient portion 420 of the insert.

Figure 5 shows the release clip 190 of the fastening system 100. The release clip 190 comprises a locking surface 191 that is configured to engage with, or disengage from, the locking surface 126 of the insert 120. The insert 120 is in the unfastened configuration when the release clip 190 is disengaged from the locking surface 126. The locking surface 191 of the release clip 190 complements the locking surface 126 of the insert 120. The locking surface 191 of the release clip 190 may comprise a ratchet-style mechanism, pawl, or saw-tooth surface. The release clip 190 comprises a ridge 192 to allow the user to contact the surface of the release clip 190 to lock and/or unlock the release clip to cause the fastening system to lock and/or unlock. An attachment hole 193 is provided to allow easy attachment of the release clip 190 to the retainer 130. The release clip 190 may be a sprung clip. For example, the release clip 190 may be biased towards a position in which it can engage with the locking surface 126 in the fastened configuration.

The fastening system 100 comprises a plurality of laces 140, wherein each of the plurality of laces 140 is fastened directly to the insert 120 at spaced intervals along the length 430 of the insert 120.

Each lace 140 terminates at a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and second end of each lace 140 are fastened directly to the insert 120. The first end and second ends of each lace 140 may be fastened to the insert 120 at adjacent fastening points along a width 435 of the insert 120. As shown in Figure 4, two laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 120 at fastening points 441, 442 along the length 430 of the insert 120. The laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 120 via stitching or sewing. The laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 120 at spaced intervals 442, 442 along the length 430 of the insert 120. A first lace 140a is fastened at fastening point 441. The first lace 140a has a first and second end fastened at adjacent fastening points 441a, 441b along the width 435 of the insert 120. A second lace 140b is fastened at fastening point 442. The second lace 140b has a first and second end fastened at adjacent fastening points 442a, 442b along a width 435 of the insert 120. The first and second ends of the second lace 140b extend along the length 430 of the insert 120 between the fastening points 441, 442 such that the first and second ends of the second lace 140b are fastened at adjacent fastening points 441 with the first and second ends of the first lace 140a.

The laces 140a, 140b are secured to the resilient portion 420. As shown in Figure 4, the laces 140a, 140b are secured to a stretchable elastic material. The stretchable elastic material is stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration. When the stretchable elastic material is stretched it has a length that is increased compared to its length in an unstretched state. However, the insert 120 may alternatively, or in addition, comprise a resilient member, such as a spring, to which the laces 140 may be secured. The resilient member is stretched (or biased) in the fastened configuration and unstretched (or unbiased) in the unfastened configuration.

Each lace comprises cord or Kevlar (RTM). The laces 140 are fastened directly to the insert 120. The laces 140 may be fastened via stitching, sewing, adhesive, or threading through loops or eyelets on the insert 120, for example.

The retainer 130, which is most clearly illustrated in Figure 6, comprises a generally elongate member defining a channel 133, or sleeve, through which the insert 120 can slide.

The retainer 130 may be shaped to complement or correspond to the shape of the base panel 300 to which the retainer 130 is attached. The retainer 130 is mountable on the base panel 300. The retainer 130 may comprise a moulded plastics material. The retainer 130 may have some degree of flex for comfort for the user, however the retainer 130 is rigid in the sense that it maintains a fixed shape or length in the fastened and unfastened configurations and is able to support the laces 140 in preferred positions.

The retainer 130 has at least one aperture 132 through which the one or more laces 140 pass from an inner region of the retainer 130 (i.e. the channel 133) to an outer region of the retainer 130. The slotted channel 133 extends from a terminal end to a distal end of the retainer 130. The laces 140 pass through the surface of the retainer 130. The retainer 130 shown comprises a plurality of apertures 132 through which two laces 140 can be threaded. The retainer 130 is provided with channels 134a, 134b, 136 through which each lace 140 can be threaded. For each lace, there is a pair of curved channels 134a, 134b at a distal side of the retainer 130 and a straight channel 136 at a terminal end of the retainer. The first and second ends of the lace pass through the pair of curved channels 134a, 134b and the mid-section of the lace passes through the straight channel 136. The lace 140 is free to move or slide through or within each channel 134a, 134b, 136.

Figure 7 illustrates how the one or more laces 140 pass through a surface of the retainer 130 via apertures 132 within the retainer surface of the fastening system 100 according to the first embodiment. The retainer 130 is provided at a fixed position on the rear portion of the footwear 110 such that it remains in the same position during use in both the fastened and unfastened configurations. Each lace 140a, 140b is directly fastened to the insert 120 at a fastening point, such that each lace 10a, 140b is configured to move in unison with the insert 120 at the respective fastening points.

As shown in Figure 7, the first and second ends of the first lace 140a are fastened to the insert 120 at fastening points in the region of the first pair of curved channels 134a, 134b.

The mid-section of the first lace 140a passes through the first straight channel 136. The first and second ends of the second lace 140b are fastened to the insert 120 at fastening points in the region of the second pair of curved channels 137a, 137b. The mid-section of the second lace 140b passes through the second straight channel 138. The first straight channel 136 is adjacent the second pair of curved channels 137a, 137b, such that the first straight channel 136 is provided at a distal side and the second pair of curved channels 137a, 137b is provided at the terminal side. For both the first and second laces 140a, 140b, the laces are attached to the footwear 110 at attachment points 150 on the footwear 110. Each of the attachment points 150 are at a location on the sides of the footwear 110 but positioned between each pair of curved channels 134a, 134b, 137a, 137b and the straight channels 136, 138 for each lace. As such each lace 140a, 140b has a corresponding three channels on the retainer 130 and two attachment points 150 on the footwear 110 through which each lace can pass.

Figures 8 to 9 illustrate the fastening system 100 positioned along a rear portion 160 (or spine) of the footwear 110. The rear portion 160 of the footwear 110 is at a heel region at an opposite end to a toe region of the footwear 110. The rear portion 160 extends from the distal end 180 of the insert 120 to the terminal end 170 adjacent the sole of the footwear 110.

Figures 8A and 8B are show the insert 120 of the fastening system 100 on the item of footwear 110 (the retainer is not shown). The insert 120 comprises a terminal end 170 fastened to the footwear 110 and an opposing distal end 180. The terminal end 170 is fastened to the footwear 110 via the base panel 300, for example using adhesive or via stitching.

The first and second ends of the first lace 140a are fastened to the insert 120 at a fastening point 441 generally at an intersection between the rigid 410 and resilient 420 portions. Each lace 140a, 140b is fastened directly to the insert 120 between the terminal end 170 and distal end 180. The first and second ends of the second lace 140b are fastened to the insert 120 at a fastening point 442 and the mid-section of the second lace 140b is not fastened to the footwear 110. The mid-section of each lace passes through the attachment points 150 on either side of the footwear 110 so as to be able to move relative to the attachment points 150. The first and second ends of the first and second laces 140a, 140b are provided at a distal end of the insert 120 compared to the mid-section of each lace 140a, 140b which is provided at a terminal end of the insert 120. Other configurations are possible.

Each lace 140a, 140b has a corresponding two attachment points 150 on the footwear 110 through which each lace can pass. As shown in Figure 8B, the first lace 140a is attached to the footwear 110 at attachment points 150a, 151a on the footwear 110. Each of the attachment points 150a, 151a are positioned at a location on the sides of the footwear 110. Each of the attachment points 150a, 151a are positioned between the first and second ends of the first lace 140a and the mid-section of the first lace 140a, in an alignment along the length of the insert 120. The second lace 140b is attached to the footwear 110 at attachment points 150b, 151b on the footwear 110. Each of the attachment points 150b, 151b are positioned at a location on the sides of the footwear 110. Each of the attachment points 150b, 151b are positioned between the first and second ends of the second lace 140b and the mid-section of the second lace 140b in an alignment along the length of the insert 120.

In the fastened configuration a length 430 of the insert 120 is increased compared to in the unfastened configuration. Each lace 140a, 140b is configured to become slack between its fastening point 441, 442 on the insert 120 and each attachment point 150 on the footwear, under direct influence from the insert 120 as the insert 120 moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration. Each lace 140a, 140b is configured to become taut between its fastening point 441, 442 on the insert 120 and each attachment point 150 on the footwear, under direct influence from the insert 120 as the insert 120 moves from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration.

When the retainer 130 is provided, each lace 140a, 140b is configured to become slack (or taut) between its respective aperture 13 through which each lace passes through the retainer 130 and each attachment point 150 on the footwear 110.

Figures 9A and 9B are schematics showing the retainer 130 of the fastening system on the item of footwear 110 (the insert is not shown). The retainer 130 is fastened to the footwear 110 via the base panel 300 and may be shaped to complement or correspond to the shape of the base panel 300. The retainer 130 is shown with the release clip 190 mounted at its distal end. When the insert 120 is provided within the retainer 130 the insert 120 passes between the release clip 190 and the retainer 130 such that the release clip 190 can engage and disengage the locking surface 126 of the insert 120.The retainer 130 is provided with an attachment point 139 for mounting the retainer 130 to the base panel 300 and/or securing of the release clip 190 to the retainer 130 at its distal end.

Figure 3 shows an exemplary base panel 300 suitable for mounting the fastening system to an item of footwear 110. The retainer 130 and release clip 190 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the base panel 300. The base panel 300 provides a sturdy surface on which to mount the fastening system 100 on the footwear 110.

The operation of the fastening system 100 will now be described, with particular reference to Figures 2A and 2b.

Figure 2A shows the fastening system in a fastened (locked) configuration. In the fastened configuration the laces 140 are taut between the insert 120 and the respective attachment points 150 on the footwear 110. In the fastened configuration the fit of the footwear 110 is in a tightened state, for example to allow the user to securely wear the footwear 110 on their foot.

The user can impart an external force on the insert 120 to cause the insert 120 to slide (i.e. move or stretch) within the retainer 130. The insert 120 may be pulled 123 by the user, for example at the distal end 180 via the grip 122, to impart a tensile force on the insert 120. The application of a tensile force to the insert 120 causes the insert 120 to stretch 124 from the terminal end 170. As the insert 120 is placed under tension by the action of the user pulling the insert 120 the laces 140 become taut under direct influence from the insert stretching. When the laces 140 become taut the fit of the footwear 110 is caused to tighten 125 since the laces 140 are fastened both to the insert 120 and attachment points 150 on either sides of the footwear 110. The action of the laces 140 becoming taut pulls the insert 120 and attachment points 150 on the footwear 110 closer together. The retainer 130 prevents, or restricts, movement of the insert 120 in a width direction (i.e. a direction generally at right angles to a longitudinal axis of the elongate insert and/or retainer). Thus, the footwear is tightened as the attachment points 150 move closer to the retainer 130.

Figure 2B shows the fastening system 100 in an unfastened (unlocked) configuration. In the unfastened configuration the laces 140 are slack between the insert 120 and attachment points 150 on the footwear 110. In the unfastened configuration the fit of the footwear 110 is in a loosened state, for example to allow a user to insert their foot into, or remove their foot from, the footwear 110.

The user is able to unlock 127 the fastening system 100 via operation of the release clip 190, for example using only one hand. When the release clip 190 is disengaged from the locking surface 126 of the insert 120 the potential energy stored in the insert 120 is released, causing the insert 120 to relax 128 towards the terminal end 170 into the unstretched state. As the insert 120 is released from tension, by the action of the user releasing 127 the release clip 190, the insert 120 directly influences and urges the laces 140 to become slack. The action of the laces 140 becoming slack releases the tension between the insert 120 and attachment points 150 on the footwear 110 to allow the footwear 110 to loosen.

As described above,he laces 140 are directly attached to the insert 120 at fastening points. As the insert 120 is released 128 from tension and relaxes towards the terminal end 170 the laces 140 move in unison with the insert 120. As such the laces 140, in addition to the insert 120, move towards the terminal end 170 via the fastening points between the laces 140 and the insert 120. When the laces 140 become slack the fit of the footwear 110 is caused to loosen 129 since the laces 140 are fastened both to the insert 120 and respective attachment points 150 on the footwear 110. This arrangement actively urges the laces 140 to become slack so as to loosen the fit of the footwear 110 under direct influence from the insert 120 moving from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.

Second embodiment Figures 10 to 15 illustrate a second embodiment of the fastening system.

Each component of the second embodiment has the same features, and operates in the same manner, as the first embodiment, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 9. However, in the second embodiment the fastening points to secure the laces to the insert, and the retainer, comprise different arrangements. Only these different arrangements will be described for brevity.

The second embodiment allows the user to easily replace worn laces. For example, laces may break or snap due to frictional wear. The user is able to easily repair the worn laces by replacing the laces on the footwear. The user is able to thread the lace through the retainer and through a loop on the insert before tying a knot in the lace somewhere along the lace to secure it. The knot may be hidden beneath an attachment point on the side of the footwear.

Figure 10 shows the fastening system 200 according to the second embodiment. The fastening system 200 comprises an insert 220 slidable within a retainer 230. One or more laces 140 are fastened both to the insert 220 and an attachment point 150 on the footwear 110. The insert 220 is slideable within the retainer 230 between a fastened configuration and an unfastened configuration. The fastening system 200 is provided on a rear portion (or spine) of the item of footwear 110. The insert 220 is secured to the footwear 110 at a terminal end 170 of the insert 220. A grip 122 may be provided on the insert 220 at a distal end 180 opposite the terminal end 170 to allow the user to grasp the insert 220. The retainer 230 is provided with apertures 232 through which the laces 140 are passed and one or more slots 1260a, 1260b in which the fastening points can slide. A release clip 190 is provided to hold the fastening system in the fastened (locked) configuration or unfastened (unlocked) configuration.

Figure 11A shows the fastening system 200 in a fastened (locked) configuration. The fastening system 200 operates in the same manner as described above with reference to Figure 2A.

Figure 11B shows the fastening system 200 in an unfastened (unlocked) configuration. The fastening system 200 operates in the same manner as described above with reference to Figure 2B.

Figures 12A and 12B show the insert 220 of the fastening system 200 according to the second embodiment. The insert 220 comprises a rigid portion 1210 and a resilient portion 420. The rigid portion 1210 is moulded to the resilient portion 420. The rigid portion comprises a first rigid portion 1210a that comprises the locking surface 126 and grip 122 at the distal end. The rigid portion comprises a second rigid portion 1210b that overlaps with the resilient portion 420. The first and second rigid portions 1210a, 1210b are integrally formed as a unitary component, such that the second rigid portion 1210b is an extension of the first rigid portion 1210a. The second rigid portion 1210b is moulded directly to the resilient portion 420. The second rigid portion 1210b comprises fastening points 1241, 1242 for securing the laces directly to the insert 220.

In a preferred embodiment, the two fastening points 1241, 1242 form part of the second rigid portion 1210b that is moulded to the resilient portion 420 and therefore the resilient portion 420 is stretchable in the region between the second rigid portion 1210b and the terminal end 170 of the insert 220. Alternatively, the two fastening points 1241, 1242 are provided as a material loop composed of the same material as the resilient component 420, where the material loop may extend through apertures provided in the second rigid portion 1210b.

The first rigid portion 1210a and second rigid portion 1210b are integrally formed and comprise the same material, for example moulded plastics material.

The second rigid portion 1210b preferably extends along a midline of the insert 220. The second rigid portion 1210b does not (as shown) extend all the way to the terminal end 170 of the insert 220 to allow a region of the resilient portion 420 to be stretchable between the second rigid portion 1210b and the terminal end 170 of the insert 220. A width of the second rigid portion 1210b is narrower than a width of the first rigid portion 1210a.

As shown, two laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 220 at fastening points 1241, 1242 at intervals along the length 430 of the insert 220. The first end and second end of each lace 140a, 140b are fastened directly to the insert 220 at fastening points 1241, 1242 on the insert 120. The fastening points 1241, 1242 are preferably positioned midway along the width 435 of the insert 220, to enable an even application of tensioning force along the width of the resilient portion 420, so as to transfer an equal tensioning force to each end of each lace. The laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 220 via loops as shown in Figure 12B. Each lace 140a, 140b passes through a respective loop 1250a, 1250b (or eyelet) on the insert 220. The loops 1250a, 1250b protrude from a surface of the insert 220.

Preferably, each loop 1250a, 1250b is provided integrally with the second rigid portion 1210b, for example as a moulded plastics loop. Alternatively, each loop 1250a, 1250b through which each lace 140a, 140b passes may be provided as a material loop composed of the same material as the resilient component 420 where the material loop may extend through apertures provided in the second rigid portion 1210b. In both variations the laces are attached to loops on the insert 220 so as to be fastened directly to the insert 220. This allows the laces to move in unison with the insert 220 under direct influence of the insert 220.

The laces 140a, 140b are fastened to the insert 220 at spaced intervals 1241, 1242 along the length 430 of the insert 220. The first lace 140a is fastened at fastening point 1241. The second lace 140b is fastened at fastening point 1242. Each lace 140a, 140b is passed through its respective loop 1250a, 1250b and secured by knotting or tying the lace.

The insert 220 may comprise a plurality of laces 140, wherein each of the plurality of laces is fastened directly to the insert 220 at spaced intervals along the length 430 of the insert 220 via respective loops (only two laces and two loops are shown in figure 12B).

Figure 13 shows the retainer 230 of the fastening system according to the second embodiment. The retainer 230 may be shaped to complement or correspond to the shape of the base panel 300 to which the retainer 230 is mountable. The insert 220 is slidable within the retainer 230. The retainer 230 comprises slots (or cut-out section) 1260a, 1260b through which the fastening points on the insert can respectively protrude.

The retainer 230 has at least one aperture 132 through which the one or more laces 140 can pass from an attachment point 150 on the footwear 110 to the respective fastening points 1241, 1242 on the insert 220. The retainer 230 shown comprises a plurality of apertures 132 through which two laces 140 can be threaded. The retainer 230 is provided with channels 1234a, 1234b, 136 through which the first lace 140a can be threaded. The channels 1234a, 1234b, 136 are associated with the apertures 132 as lead from the apertures 132. There is a pair of channels 1234a, 1234b at a distal end of the retainer 230 and a straight channel 136 at a terminal end of the retainer. The first and second ends of the first lace 140a pass through the pair of channels 134a, 134b and the mid-section of the lace passes through the straight channel 136. The first lace 140a passes through the pair of channels 1234a, 1234b and through the loop 1250a protruding from the insert 230. The first lace 140a is free to move or slide through or within each channel 1234a, 1234b, 136. At a region between the pair of channels 1234a, 1234b a slot 1260a is provided in the retainer 230. The slot 1260a allows for the loop 1250a protruding from the insert 230 to extend into and slide within the slot 1260a. As such the first lace 140a threaded through the loop 1250a is also able to slide within the slot 1260a as the insert 220 slides within the retainer 230, to cause the lace to become taut or slack as the fastening point 1250a slides within the slot 1260a.

When a plurality of laces is provided on the footwear, the retainer 230 is provided with a further set of channels. As shown in Figure 13, the retainer 230 is provided with a second set of channels 1237a, 1237b, 138 through which the second lace 140b can be threaded.

The pair of channels 1237a, 1237b are positioned at a distal end of the retainer 230 and the straight channel 138 at a terminal end of the retainer. The first and second ends of the second lace 140b pass through the pair of channels 1237a, 1237b and the mid-section of the lace passes through the straight channel 138. The second lace 140b is free to move or slide through or within each channel 1237a, 1237b, 138. At a region between the pair of channels 1237a, 1237b a second slot 1260b is provided in the retainer 230. The slot 1260b allows for the loop 1250b protruding from the insert 230 to extend into and slide within the slot 1260b. The second lace 140b passes through the pair of channels 1237a, 1237b and through the loop 1250b protruding from the insert 230. As such the second lace 140b threaded through the loop 1250b is also able to slide within the slot 1260b as the insert 220 slides within the retainer 230, to cause the lace to become taut or slack as the fastening point 1250b slides within the slot 1260b.

As the insert 220 slides within the slotted channel 133 of the retainer 230, the first and second laces 140a, 140b become taut or slack under direct influence of the insert 230 via the fastening points 1241, 1242 moving within the slots 1260a, 1260b.

Each slot (or cut-out section) 1260a, 1260b comprises an elongate shape. The elongate shape has a length that extends along a length of the retainer 230 and a width that extends along the width of the retainer 230. Each slot may be provided in the centre of the width of the retainer 230, in alignment with the fastening points midway along the width of the insert 220. The loops 1250a, 1250b on the insert protrude through the slots 1260a, 1260b so as to be configured to slide up and down the respective slot as the insert is pulled into the respective locked position or released into the unlocked position.

Third embodiment Figures 16 to 18 illustrate a third embodiment of the fastening system.

Each component of the third embodiment has corresponding features to, and operates in the same manner as, the fastening systems described above with reference to Figures 1 to 9 (illustrating the first embodiment) and Figures 10 to 15 (illustrating the second embodiment). However, in the third embodiment the fastening system is provided on a front portion or tongue portion of the footwear. Only this difference will be described for brevity. The third embodiment allows the user to easily tighten or loosen the fit of the footwear around the foot, for example on a low-cut shoe.

In this third embodiment three laces 140a, 140b, 140c are provided to tighten and loosen the footwear.

Figure 16A shows the fastening system 300 in a fastened configuration. The fastened configuration is the same as that described above with reference to Figures 2A and 11A.

Figure 16B shows the fastening system 300 in an unfastened configuration. The unfastened configuration is the same as that described above with reference to Figures 2B and 11B.

While the fastening system 300 of the third embodiment generally operates in the same manner as described above with reference to the first and second embodiments, there are some notable differences. Some of these differences are described below.

As best seen by reference to Figure 17" in the third embodiment the middle lace 140b is threaded through both fastening points 1241, 1242. Further, the lace 140a at the distal end has a reversed configuration such that the mid-section of the lace falls at the distal end and the first and second ends of the lace are threaded through the fastening point 1241 on the terminal end. This alternate configuration allows for the fastening system to be provided on relatively smaller proportioned footwear, such as a low-cut shoe.

Similarly, as best seen by reference to Figure 18, in the third embodiment the uppermost set of channels are reversed. As shown in Figure 18, channel 1836 is provided on the distal side of the retainer and the pair of channels 1234, 1234b are provided on the terminal side of the retainer. This variation in the configuration of the channels in the retainer allows the fastening system to be provided on a footwear having a relatively smaller dimension, such as for a low-cut boot.

The fastening system 300 of the third embodiment is similar to that of the second embodiment, wherein the retainer comprises slots. However, the fastening system 100 of the first embodiment may instead be applied to the footwear on the front portion or tongue portion of the footwear. In this alternate arrangement, the pair of curved channels and straight channel for the lace at the distal end may similarly be reversed as described above with reference to Figures 17 and 18.

Figures 19A, 19B and 19C show exemplary dimensions of the insert, retainer, and clip according to an example. The dimensions shown should be seen as an example such that these components are not limited to having only these dimensions. The dimensions of the components of the fastening system may be modified or adjusted to fit different types or sizes of footwear. For example, the fastening system provided on a low-cut shoe may have smaller dimensions to fit the low-cut shoe compared to a high-rise boot (for example), as the fastening system could be proportionally smaller in order to fit within the more restricted space of a low-cut shoe compared to the space provided for a high-rise boot.

The fastening system has been described herein as located on a rear portion or front portion of the footwear. However, the fastening system is not limited to being provided on the rear portion or front portion of an item of footwear. For example, the fastening system may be provided on a side of an item of footwear, such as the outer lateral side of a riding boot so as not to interfere with stirrups or a saddle when in use. Further, the fastening system described may be applied to footwear in other configurations.

The fastening system can be applied to any type of footwear, for example, boots, shoes, athletic shoes, water shoes, sandals, and slippers.

The fastening system described herein may comprise a first lace and second lace, however the fastening system is not limited to comprising only one or two laces and may comprise a further plurality of laces.

The fastening system described herein may comprise a resilient component comprising a stretchable elastic material or resilient member. However, the resilient component is not limited to only a stretchable elastic material or resilient member since any other suitable material that performs the same function as the resilient component described herein could be incorporated.

The locking surface and release clip are provided to hold the fastening system in the fastened (locked) configuration or unfastened (unlocked) configuration. Other locking mechanisms may be provided, and which perform the same function as the locking surface and release clip.

Each of the components of the fastening system described herein may be combined with any of the components of any of the described embodiments.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fastening system provided on an item of footwear, the fastening system comprising an insert slidable within a retainer, with a lace fastened to the insert and an attachment point on the footwear, the insert being slideable within the retainer between a fastened configuration in which the lace is taut between the insert and the attachment point and an unfastened configuration in which the lace is slack between the insert and the attachment point.
2. A fastening system according to claim 1, wherein the retainer has at least one aperture through which the lace passes, optionally the retainer comprising at least one channel through which the lace passes.
3. A fastening system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the insert comprises a rigid portion, optionally a moulded rigid portion.
4. A fastening system according to claim 3, wherein the rigid portion comprises a grip, optionally wherein the grip is a pull ring.
5. A fastening system according claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the rigid portion comprises a locking surface configured to cause the insert to be maintained in the fastened configuration, optionally wherein the locking surface comprises a saw-tooth locking surface.
6. A fastening system according claim 5, further comprising a sprung clip in cooperation with the locking surface, wherein the insert is in the unfastened configuration when the sprung clip is disengaged from the locking surface.
7. A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lace is fastened directly to the insert, optionally via stitching, or adhesive, or threading through insert loops or eyelets on the insert.
8. A fastening system according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of laces, wherein each of the plurality of laces is fastened directly to the insert at spaced intervals along a length of the insert.
9. A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lace terminates at a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and second end of the lace are fastened directly to the insert, optionally at adjacent fixture points along a width of the insert.
10.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the insert comprises a terminal end fastened to the footwear and an opposing distal end, wherein the lace is fastened directly to the insert between the terminal end and distal end.
11.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the attachment point on the footwear comprises a footwear loop through which the lace passes.
12.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lace comprises cord or Kevlar (RTM).
13.A fastening system according to claim 16, wherein the retainer comprises a plurality of apertures through which the plurality of laces are threaded, optionally the retainer comprising a plurality of channels.
14.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lace is directly fastened to the insert at a fastening point, such that the lace is configured to move in unison with the insert at the fastening point, optionally wherein the retainer comprises a slot through which the fastening point can protrude.
15.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the insert comprises a stretchable elastic material or resilient member that is stretched in the fastened configuration and unstretched in the unfastened configuration, optionally wherein the stretchable elastic material comprises a material selected from: an elastic webbing, elastic fabric, woven stretch knit material, stretchable rubber, neoprene, and silicon, or the resilient member comprises a spring or set of springs.
16.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lace is configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.
17.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein in the fastened configuration a length of the insert is increased compared to in the unfastened configuration.
18.A fastening system according to any preceding claim, wherein the fastening system is positioned along a rear portion of the footwear.
19.A fastening system provided on an item of footwear, the fastening system comprising an insert, wherein the insert is stretched in a fastened configuration and unstretched in an unfastened configuration, and a lace fastened to the insert at a fastening point and fastened to the footwear at an attachment point, such that the lace is configured to move in unison with the insert at the fastening point, wherein the lace is configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.
20.A fastening system according to claim 19, wherein the fastening point comprises an insert loop or eyelet, optionally wherein the insert loop or eyelet is integrally formed with the insert.
21.A fastening system according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the insert comprises a stretchable elastic material or resilient member.
22.A fastening system according to any of claims 19 to 21, wherein the lace is configured to become taut between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the unfastened configuration to the fastened configuration.
23.A fastening system according to any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the lace is configured to become slack between the insert and the attachment point on the footwear under direct influence from the insert as the insert moves from the fastened configuration to the unfastened configuration.
24.A fastening system according to any of claims 19 to 23, further comprising a retainer and wherein the insert is slidable within the retainer, optionally wherein the retainer comprises a slot through which the fastening point can protrude.
25.A fastening system according to any of claims 19 to 24 in combination with the fastening system according to any of claims 1 to 18.