US20220395032A1

US20220395032A1 - Variable foot and leg covering

Info

Publication number: US20220395032A1
Application number: US17/835,400
Authority: US
Inventors: Amy Jean Peterson
Original assignee: Smart Garb LLC
Current assignee: Smart Garb LLC
Priority date: 2021-06-09
Filing date: 2022-06-08
Publication date: 2022-12-15

Abstract

A variable foot and leg covering is provided. The variable foot and leg covering comprises a top portion having a first thickness. The variable foot and leg covering also comprises a bottom portion having a second thickness, wherein the first thickness is different than the second thickness.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is based on and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/202,396 filed Jun. 9, 2021, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Socks are often worn around the foot and lower leg to protect a person against the weather and abrasion from shoes or other clothing. Additionally, socks are often worn to protect an individual from debris and other objects on a surface (e.g., a floor or ground). Socks are often used in many outdoor activities, such as running, jogging, hiking, recreational sports, etc.
The discussion above is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in the background.

SUMMARY

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view showing an example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an individual wearing an example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an individual wearing an example variable foot and leg covering.

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Individuals often utilize carefully chosen equipment for any particular recreational activity of interest. For example, runners often wear carefully chosen running leggings, running shoes, and socks. Great effort and care are often given to search out the benefits and particular attributes of both running shoes and socks. Investment is made for, among other things: high performance, temperature and moisture control, comfort, medical concerns (e.g., protection of a previous injury and/or prevention of a future injury), anatomical function (e.g., skeleton, stride and gait), and fashion.
Often, running pant fabric extends from the waist to just above the ankle, and the sock and running shoe cover the foot to the ankle. This common attire combination can leave a small area of the leg uncovered and exposed to ambient conditions.
A problem arises in colder climates, and for those who visit or travel through them, when the weather plunges below freezing temperatures. In these conditions, heavier fabrics are chosen for the body, yet there arises a concern at the ankle where the gap of exposed skin remains. While a sock made from a heavy material (e.g., wool) could cover exposed skin, the implementation of this heavy material over the foot forfeits the calculated benefits of the aforementioned shoe and sock. For example, heavy sock material can disrupt the integrity of the fit, or not fit into the shoe altogether.
Accordingly, a variable foot and leg covering is provided that addresses at least some of these concerns. A variable foot and leg covering can include a type of sock comprising two or more variable weights of fabric. In one example, the variable weights of fabric can include a thick and warm fabric upper cuff or band, and a lower partial sock of thin and light fabric, open at the toe and heel, to be drawn over an individual's foot and/or sock. The upper band serves to protect and preserve body heat of otherwise exposed skin, while the lower portion serves to secure to the foot without disrupting or inhibiting fit integrity. In this way, an individual's skin can be protected from harsh environments, such as frigid weather.
While the present disclosure discusses a variable foot and leg covering being utilized in running, it is expressly contemplated that the examples provided herein can be applied to other activities as well, including walking, jogging, recreational sports, fashion, hiking, and other activities.
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view showing an example variable foot and leg covering. Covering 100 illustratively includes a top portion 102 and bottom portion 104. Top portion 102 can be considered as a band or cuff configured to wrap around and secure to the ankle and/or lower leg of an individual. As illustrated, top portion 102 can include a patterned fabric having a thickness larger than bottom portion 104. Top portion 102 may be formed from a number of different materials relative to the desired characteristics of covering 100 (e.g., warmth, ventilation, flexibility, cushioning, etc.). For example, top portion 102 may be formed of a moisture resistant material. In this way, heat is substantially conserved at the portion covered by top portion 102, thereby protecting otherwise exposed skin from harsh weather conditions.
As shown in FIG. 1 , bottom portion 104 is formed of a thinner elastic material than top portion 102. Bottom portion 104 can include a limited and lightweight slip-on foot covering. The material utilized for bottom portion 104 is slight enough so as not to disturb the attributes of a carefully selected specialty sock or its relationship with a unique and valuable shoe. Additionally, bottom portion 104 is designed such that it may be worn in examples where no primary sock is used by the individual. Bottom portion 104 is configured to secure to and wrap around a foot arch of an individual via stirrup portion 106. Stirrup portion 106 is configured to compress to the arch of the foot such that it forms to the shape the foot arch. In this way, the space within the shoe occupied by bottom portion 104 is minimized. Stirrup portion 106 can be sized such that it wraps around the entirety of the foot arch of the individual. However, in another example, stirrup portion 106 can be sized such that it wraps around only a portion of the foot arch of the individual, thereby leaving a portion of the foot arch of the individual uncovered by stirrup portion 106.
As shown, bottom portion 104 illustratively includes a first opening 108 and a second opening 110. First opening 108 is configured to allow insertion of a heel of the foot of an individual therethrough. Second opening 110 is configured to allow insertion of the front of the foot therethrough. By utilizing first opening 108 and second opening 110, a user can equip any desired footing equipment, such as socks, underneath covering 100 without compromising space within the shoe. For example, a sock desired for use by the individual may include a particular padding and moisture control. By implementing first opening 108 and second opening 110, the padding of the desired sock may be utilized, as well as the effects of breathability, without conflict by covering 100. Additionally, in another example, an individual may not have a desired primary sock equipped, and bottom portion 104 may directly compress to the foot arch of the individual. Thus, bottom portion 104 serves to secure to the foot without disrupting or inhibiting fit integrity and desired sock/shoe characteristics.
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering. Covering 200 illustratively includes top portion 202 and bottom portion 204. As shown, bottom portion 204 comprises a thinner material than top portion 202. Bottom portion 204 illustratively includes a stirrup portion 206 configured to secure to the foot arch of an individual. Additionally, bottom portion 204 further includes a first opening 208 configured to allow insertion of a heel of the foot therethrough, and a second opening 210 configured to allow insertion of the front of the foot therethrough. As described above, first opening 208 and second opening 210 are configured to allow a user to equip any desired footing equipment, such as socks, underneath covering 100 without compromising space within the shoe. In this way, bottom portion 204 can secure to the foot of a user without disrupting or inhibiting fit integrity and desired sock/shoe features.
As illustrated in FIG. 2 , top portion 202 comprises a thick layered material relative to bottom portion 204 suitable for retaining warmth of the skin in frigid weather conditions, and/or for protection from debris (e.g., sticks, branches, brush, rocks, etc.) present within an environment. As shown, top portion 202 has a length sufficient to substantially cover the otherwise exposed skin without proceeding further up the leg. In this way, only the exposed portion of the leg is covered by top portion 202 without the need to overlap with the pant of the individual. In one example, the top portion can have a length of 3 to 4 inches. However, in another example, the top portion may have a length of 2-3 inches, such that the gap between the ankle and pant is sufficiently protected.
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering. FIG. 3 bears some similarities to FIG. 2 , and like components are numbered accordingly. Covering 300 illustratively includes top portion 302 and bottom portion 304. As shown, bottom portion 304 comprises a thinner material than top portion 302. Bottom portion 304 illustratively includes a stirrup portion 306 configured to secure to the foot arch of an individual. Additionally, bottom portion 304 further includes a first opening 308 configured to allow insertion of a heel of the foot therethrough, and a second opening 310 configured to allow insertion of the front of the foot therethrough.
As shown in FIG. 3 , covering 300 optionally includes a pocket 312 generally disposed within an internal portion of top portion 302 and extending down towards bottom portion 304. As shown, pocket 312 is configured to secure one or more objects 316. For example, pocket 312 may be configured to house a card, such as a credit card or identification card. In another example, pocket 312 may be sized such that it can fit a key. In another example, pocket 312 may be sized such that it can fit monetary currency. Pocket 312 may be sized such that it can fit a desired item while minimizing the space utilized by top portion 302. For example, pocket 312 may have a width of about 3.4 inches and a height of about 2.2 inches. Additionally, it is expressly contemplated that pocket 312 may be sized differently as well, relative to the desired objects 316.
Covering 300 further includes fastener 314 configured to secure one or more objects 316 within pocket 312. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , fastener 314 includes a zipper having a slider and a plurality of teeth configured to couple together upon actuation of the slider. However, in other examples, fastener 314 may be a different type of fastener to secure objects 316 within pocket 312. For example, fastener 314 may include one or more buttons. In another example, fastener 314 may include a hook and loop fastener. In another example, fastener 314 may include one or more magnets. Additionally, it is expressly contemplated that other types of fasteners 314 may be utilized as well. In operation, an individual may utilize pocket 312 by securing any desired objects 316 into the pocket by fastener 314 prior to activity (e.g., running), thereby enabling security of any items of import whilst maintaining warmth and protection of the skin.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an individual wearing an example variable foot and leg covering. Covering 400 illustratively includes top portion 402 and bottom portion 404. As shown, bottom portion 404 comprises a thinner material than top portion 402. Bottom portion 404 illustratively includes a stirrup portion 406 configured to secure to the foot arch of an individual. Additionally, bottom portion 404 further includes a first opening configured to allow insertion of a heel 408 therethrough, and a second opening configured to allow insertion of the forefoot 410 therethrough. As shown, the second opening is configured to allow insertion of the forefoot 410 up until a distal end of the arch of the foot. However, in other examples, the second opening may allow the foot of the individual to be inserted at a shorter or larger amount. As described above, first opening and second opening are configured to allow a user to equip any desired footing equipment, such as socks, underneath covering 400 without compromising space within the shoe. In this way, bottom portion 404 can secure to the foot of a user without disrupting or inhibiting fit integrity and desired sock/shoe characteristics.
As illustrated in FIG. 4 , top portion 402 comprises a thick layered material relative to bottom portion 404. As shown, top portion 402 has a length sufficient to substantially cover the otherwise exposed skin. Additionally, top portion 402 is sized with a length that extends midway up the leg of the individual. In this way, the exposed portion of the leg is covered by top portion 402 while also providing warmth and support to the lower leg. In one example, the top portion can have a length of 4 to 6 inches. However, in another example, the top portion may have a length of 6 to 8 inches, such that the gap between the ankle and pant is sufficiently protected and a desired area of coverage has been met.
FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering. FIG. 5 bears some similarities to FIG. 4 , and like components are numbered accordingly. Covering 500 illustratively includes top portion 502 and bottom portion 504. As shown, bottom portion 504 comprises a thinner material than top portion 502. Bottom portion 504 illustratively includes a stirrup portion 506 configured to secure to the foot arch of an individual. Additionally, bottom portion 504 further includes a first opening 508 configured to allow insertion of a heel of the foot therethrough, and a second opening 510 configured to allow insertion of the forefoot therethrough.
As shown in FIG. 5 , covering 500 optionally includes a pocket 512 generally disposed within an internal portion of top portion 502 and extending down towards bottom portion 504. As shown, pocket 512 is disposed near the top end of top portion 502. However, it is expressly contemplated that pocket 512 may be disposed at a different portion of top portion 502 as well. For example, pocket 512 may be disposed in the middle of top portion 502.
Pocket 512 is configured to secure one or more objects 516. For example, pocket 512 may be configured to house a card, such as a credit card or identification card. Pocket 512 may be sized such that it can fit a desired item while minimizing the space utilized by top portion 502. For example, pocket 512 may have a width of about 3.4 inches and a height of about 2.2 inches. Additionally, it is expressly contemplated that pocket 512 may be sized differently as well, relative to the desired objects 516. For example, by utilizing a top portion 502 with a longer length that extends up the leg of the individual, pocket 512 may extend further down the length of top portion 502, thereby forming a larger space for securing objects 516.
Covering 500 further includes fastener 514 configured to secure the one or more objects 516 within pocket 512. In the example shown in FIG. 5 , fastener 514 includes a zipper having a slider and a plurality of teeth configured to couple together upon actuation of the slider. However, as described above, fastener 514 may alternatively include a different type of fastener to secure objects 516 within pocket 512 as well. For example, fastener 514 may include one or more buttons, a hook and loop fastener, one or more magnets, etc. In operation, an individual may utilize pocket 512 by securing any desired objects 516 into the pocket by fastener 514 prior to activity, thereby enabling security of any items of import whilst maintaining warmth and protection of the skin.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an individual wearing an example variable foot and leg covering. FIG. 6 bears some similarities to FIG. 5 , and like components are numbered accordingly. Covering 600 illustratively includes top portion 602 and bottom portion 604. As shown, bottom portion 604 comprises a thinner material than top portion 602. Bottom portion 604 illustratively includes a stirrup portion 606 configured to secure to the foot arch of an individual. Additionally, bottom portion 604 further includes a first opening 608 configured to allow insertion of a heel of the foot therethrough, and a second opening 610 configured to allow insertion of the forefoot therethrough. Covering 600 further includes a pocket 612 generally disposed within an internal portion of top portion 602 and extending down towards bottom portion 604.
As shown, covering 600 further includes fastener 614 configured to secure the one or more objects within pocket 612. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , fastener 614 includes a zipper having a slider and a plurality of teeth configured to couple together upon actuation of the slider. However, as described above, fastener 614 may alternatively include a different type of fastener to secure one or more objects within pocket 612 as well. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the fastener is disposed at a diagonal angle along top portion 602. In this way, fastener 614 can accessed in a convenient manner from the individual when wearing covering 600. In one example, fastener 614 may be disposed at roughly a 45-degree angle. In another example, fastener 614 may be disposed at roughly a 60-degree angle. Additionally, it is expressly contemplated that fastener 614 can be disposed at a different angle along top portion 602 as well. For example, fastener 614 may be disposed at a 90-degree angle along top portion 602 towards bottom portion 604. Further, while fastener 614 is shown disposed at an angle running from first opening 608 towards the distal end of top portion 602, it is expressly contemplated that fastener 614 may be disposed at different angles as well (e.g., from the distal end of top portion 602 towards second opening 610).
FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic view showing another example variable foot and leg covering. Covering 700 illustratively includes a top portion 702. As described above, top portion 702 can be considered as a band or cuff configured to wrap around and secure to the ankle and/or lower leg of an individual. As illustrated, top portion 702 can include a patterned fabric having a thickness suitable for retaining skin warmth and protection. In this way, heat is substantially conserved at the portion covered by top portion 702, thereby protecting otherwise exposed skin from harsh weather conditions.
As shown in FIG. 7 , covering 700 has a bottom portion 704. However, in the example shown, the bottom portion 704 does not include a stirrup portion, but rather an opening configured to allow insertion of the entire foot of the individual. In this way, a user can conveniently equip covering 700 in order to retain skin warmth and protection, while also maximizing shoe/sock integrity and fit.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A variable foot and leg covering comprising:

a top portion having a first thickness;

a bottom portion having a second thickness; and

wherein the first thickness is different than the second thickness.

2. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 1, wherein the second thickness has a thickness that is thinner than the first thickness.

3. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 2, wherein the second thickness is zero, such that there is no fabric at the bottom portion.

4. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion comprises a stirrup portion configured to compress to a foot arch of an individual.

5. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 4, wherein the bottom portion further comprises:

a first opening configured to allow insertion of a heel of the individual therethrough; and

a second opening configured to allow insertion of a forefoot of the individual therethrough.

6. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 1, wherein the top portion comprises a layered material.

7. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 4, wherein the stirrup portion is configured to compress to an entire foot arch of the individual.

8. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 4, wherein the stirrup portion is configured to compress to a first portion of the foot arch of the individual such that a second portion of the foot arch remains uncovered.

9. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 1, wherein the top portion has a length sized such that it extends midway up a leg of an individual.

10. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 1, wherein the top portion is sized such that is extends over an ankle of an individual.

11. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 10, wherein the top portion has a length of about 3 inches.

12. A variable foot and leg covering comprising:

a top portion having a first thickness;

a bottom portion having a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness; and

a pocket disposed on the top portion configured to allow insertion of one or more object therethrough.

13. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 12, further comprising:

a fastener configured to fasten and secure the one or more objects within the pocket.

14. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 13, wherein the fastener is a zipper.

15. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 12, wherein the pocket extends down the top portion towards the bottom portion.

16. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 13, wherein the fastener is disposed at an angle that extends diagonally along the top portion.

17. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 12, wherein the pocket is sized such that it can substantially fit the one or more objects therein.

18. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 17, wherein the pocket has a width of about 3.4 inches and a height of about 2.2 inches.

19. A variable foot and leg covering comprising:

a top portion having a first thickness;

a bottom portion having a second thickness that is different than the first thickness, the bottom portion comprising:

a stirrup portion sized to secure to a foot arch of an individual such that a spacing occupied by the stirrup portion is minimized;

a second opening configured to allow insertion of a forefoot of the individual therethrough; and

wherein the bottom portion is configured to retain fit integrity of a shoe worn by the individual.

20. The variable foot and leg covering of claim 19, wherein the bottom portion is formed of an elastic material such that it substantially compresses to a foot of the individual.