WO2007094964A2

WO2007094964A2 - Pant cuff retaining clip assemblies

Info

Publication number: WO2007094964A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/002573
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel B. Ryder
Original assignee: Ryder Clips Unlimited, Inc.
Priority date: 2006-01-30
Filing date: 2007-01-30
Publication date: 2007-08-23
Also published as: US20070192998A1; WO2007094964A3

Abstract

An attachment device for retaining pant legs in proper position while traveling on a wheeled vehicle such as, but not limited to a motorcycle. The device preferably includes a front attachment assembly having one or more clips and a rear or back attachment assembly having one or more clips. Decorative elements can be secured to the clips to improve the aesthetic nature of the device. Several embodiments for the front and back assemblies are disclosed. Given its aesthetic characteristics, the device can also be worn as a decorative item or jewelry.

Description

PANT CUFF RETAINING CLIP ASSEMBLIES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to clips for retaining a wearer's pant legs in place while traveling on a motorcycle, bicycle or other open wheeled vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

While traveling on a motorcycle it is common for the rider's pant legs to blow or otherwise rise up with respect to the rider's leg. Besides being an appearance nuisance, the rising of the pant legs can also be a driving hazard, since the rider often uses his or her hands to pull down the raised pant leg, which can cause the rider to lose control of the motorcycle (if driving) or otherwise take his or her concentration off the road. It is to the effective resolution of overcoming this problem in a decorative fashion that the present invention is directed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally provides a clip attachment device for retaining pant legs in proper position while traveling on a wheeled vehicle such as, but not limited to a motorcycle. The device preferably includes a front attachment assembly and a rear or back attachment assembly.

In one front embodiment, the front attachment assembly comprises two clips, placed back-to-back to each other, with one clip attached to the pant cuff in the front and the other clip attached down to the lacing, strap or other area of a boot, sneaker, shoe or other footwear (all collectively referred to as "boot" or "footwear" for purposes of the specification and claims).

In another front embodiment, a u-shaped member is secured to a boot strap and a clip is secured to the pant leg. In a further embodiment, a locking mechanism having^pa male and a female component is provided with the female portion remaining permanently secured to the boot. The releasable male portion is secured to a clip and the clip is secured to the pant leg.

The back clip assembly preferably attaches to one or more locations on the heel or other back area of the boot. Where two rear heel attachment points are provided, each attachment extends upward through an expandable strap or band to a clip member. Each rear clip member is secured to the pant cuff of the rider. The rear clips can also be connected to each other through a link mechanism, such as, but not limited to one ore more chain links disposed between the rear clips and secured at each end to one of the rear clips. In one embodiment, a heel anchor is secured to each side of the boot heel and mates with corresponding heel anchor connectors secured to the stretchable straps. In another embodiment, a hole is drilled in the boot heel, preferably at a rearward angle, and a pin is secured to the end of the stretchable straps. The pin is disposed within the boot heel hole to secure the assembly to the boot.

On either or both of the assemblies, artwork, ornaments, medallions, emblems and/or other decorative elements can be provided on the front and/or back clips such that the assemblies also become a decorative item and hide the clips substantially from ordinary view.

Thus, when the assemblies are secured to the boot and pant legs, the pant legs are prevented from riding up the riders legs while traveling on a motorcycle or other open vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment for the front clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 2 is a top view of the front clip assembly of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a side view of the front clip assembly of Figure 1 shown with one embodiment for the back clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 4 is a side view of the front clip assembly of Figure 1 shown with another embodiment for the back clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 5 is a front view of the front clip assembly of Figure 1 shown in use;

Figures 6 and 7 show slightly modified versions of the front clip assembly of Figure 1 with the decorative element removed;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment for the front clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 9 is perspective view of the front clip assembly of Figure 8 shown in use;

Figure 10 is another perspective view of the front clip assembly of Figure 8 shown in use;

Figure 11 is a front view of the front clip assembly of Figure 8 shown in use;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a third embodiment for the front clip assembly in accordance with the present invention; Figures 13 and 14 are perspective views of a fourth embodiment for the front clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 15 is a front view of the front clip assembly of Figure 13 shown in use;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a first embodiment for the back clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 17 is a bottom view of the back clip assembly of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a back view of a portion of the back clip assembly of Figure 16 shown in use;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of a second embodiment for the back clip assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 20 is a side view of the back clip assembly of Figure 19 shown in use with the first embodiment of the front clip assembly;

Figure 21 illustrate various tools that can be provided with the present invention;

Figure 22-24 show the generally steps of securing the heel anchors to the footwear in accordance with one method of the present invention; and

Figures 25-27 illustrate a spring clip in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention provides retaining clips for maintaining proper position of pant cuffs while riding on an open vehicle such as a motorcycle. The present invention prevents the riders pant legs from climbing up their leg and also can provide a decorative element near the rider's footwear. In one embodiment, a front attachment assembly is provided comprising two clips, placed end-to-end to each other, with one clip attached to the pant cuff in the front and the other clip attached down to the lacing or strap of a boot, sneaker, shoe, ski boots, or other footwear. The clips hold the rider's pants down while traveling on a motorcycle or any moving or non moving vehicle. Additionally, a back clip assembly can also be provided. In one embodiment the back clip can go around the back of the boot or other footwear (all types of footwear will be collectively referred to as "boot" for purposes of the specification and claims) to a strap and then down to a clip or snap on the boot and provides a further attachment between the footwear and the rider's pant cuff. Artwork, ornaments, medallions and/or emblems can be provided on the front and/or back clips such that they become a decorative item and hide the actual clip or clamp jaws. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment for the front clip assembly is shown and generally designated as reference numeral 50. A first clip member 52 of front assembly 50 clips to the pant cuff and a second clip 82 of front assembly 50 clips to the lacing or other area of the footwear to help retain the pant leg in position and help prevent the pant leg from traveling up a rider's leg while riding an open wheeled vehicle, such as, but not limited to a motorcycle.

A piece of copper, steel, brass, used, etc. or other metal or material can be used to secure the two clips together and can constitute a coupling member 74, which receives a first ring or similar member 68 from first clip member 52 and a second ring or similar member 73 from second clip member 82. Other mechanisms for securing clips 52 and 82 to coupling member 74 can be used and are considered within the scope of the invention. Additionally, in lieu of coupling member 74 an expandable (elastic) or non-expandable strap can be secured around rings 68 and 73 to secure clip members 52 and 82 together. Other attachment mechanisms that will provide proper positions of clips 52 and 82 can be used and are considered within the scope of the invention. For example, a center, leather or other flexible member can be included to provide a pivoting relationship between clips 52 and 82 so as not to be stiff and to be more comfortable and to permit a rocking back and forth with the movement of the wearer's foot. Additionally, a swivel member can be provided for coupling member 74 for improved comfort and workability of front clip assembly for movement when the wearer is walking. However, in the preferred embodiment, metal coupling member 74 secured to rings 68 and 73 are used. The dimensions of metal coupling member 74 can be chosen to permit certain movement of rings 68 and/or 73 while in use and secured to coupling 74, which can create the pivoting relationship discussed for securing clips 52 and 82 together.

The present invention is not limited to any specific clip design and various conventional clip designs can be used and are considered within the scope of the invention.

In one non-limiting clip embodiment, clip 52 is provided with a bottom (preferably non-movable) jaw 56 having a clamping portion 58 and a top (preferably movable) jaw 54 having a clamping portion 60. Bottom jaw 56 includes upward extending flange portions 62 positioned on each side near its end 65 opposite to the end location of clamping portion 58. Each flange portion 62 can be provided with an aperture 63. End 65 can be extend upward and define a central opening. A portion of ring 68 extends around end 65 and along a top surface of bottom jaw 56 in between the two flange portions 62. Top jaw 54 is provided with a tail portion that is positioned within the central opening of end 65 of bottom jaw 56 and is also provided with two side extending flange members which rest upon the top of ring 68 and are positioned between flange portions 62 and end 65. The position of ring 68 causes top jaw 54 to remain in an open position with respect to bottom jaw when no force is applied to top jaw 54.

A top jaw control member 84 is secured to bottom jaw 56 through side extending pin members 67 that are positioned within apertures 63 of flange portions 62. Pin members 67 can be provided at one end 69 of control member 84. End 69 can be turned inward such it is extending downward for contact with top jaw 54. In a clip 52 open position, end 69 of control member 84 applies minimal if any pressure on top jaw 54, thus, allowing top jaw to remain in its natural open position in view of the position of ring 68. When it is desired to close clip 52, control member 84 is rotated downward causing end 69 to contact or apply more pressure on top jaw 54 which moves top jaw 54 downward to a clip 52 closed position. Clip 52 remains in a closed position until control member 84 is manually rotated upwards such that end 69 no longer applies pressure on top jaw 54 and thus, top jaw 54 returns to its open position with respect to bottom jaw 56.

In a fully closed position clamp portion 60 of top jaw 54 can extend just beyond or just before clamp portion 58 of bottom jaw 56. Additionally, the lengths of top jaw 54 and bottom jaw 56 can be chosen based on a length of a pant leg cuff. Thus, in use, when securing to a pant leg, the jaws can extend along the bottom of the pant leg such that the clamp portions 58 and 60 attached to the pant leg at a point beyond the pant leg cuff, which provides a better gripping (securing) area. Though not limiting, clips 52 and 82 can be identical in construction, function and/or operation.

Artwork, designs, logos, text, emblems, medallions or other decorative items (collectively referred to as "decorative elements") 72 and 83 can be provided and preferably cover at least a majority of jaws 54 and 56 from plain view when the clip embodiment is properly attached. In one embodiment, decorative element 72 (shown as a heart design) can be secured to control member 84 by any conventional mechanism. Decorative element 72 also provides an easier gripping area for the user for moving control member 84 back and forth as needed. It is within the scope of the invention that the decorative element 72 can be of the same type or different type as compared to decorative element 83. Additionally, the size and/or shape of decorative element 72 can be the same or different as compared to the size and/or shape of decorative element 83. Thus, in use of front clip assembly 50, clip member 52 is secured to the boot lacing and clip member 82 is secured to the pant leg. It is also within the scope of the invention to reverse the attachments, with clip member 52 secured to the pant leg and clip member 82 secured to the boot lacing. It should also be apparent that a first front clip assembly is secured to the left pant leg and left boot and a second front clip assembly 50 is secured to the right pant leg and right boot.

As seen in Figure 8 and 9, where the boot has no lacing, but is provided with a strap like member (i.e. engineer boot) a modified front clip assembly 100 can be provided. In this embodiment only one clip member 102 which is similar to clip members 52 or 82 is provided and is secured to the pant leg similar to as described above.

In lieu of the second clip, a strap attachment mechanism which can be a u-shaped member 110 (preferably metal) is provided. One end 112 of u-shaped member 1 10 has an inwardly extending flange portion 114 which defines a slot 116 for receipt of a strap 132 of the boot 130. Once through slot 116 a portion of boot strap 132 resides within passageway 118 (preferably narrow) of u-shaped member 110 (which can resemble a conventional money clip in shape, though such is not considered limiting) and can be slidably adjusted along boot strap 132. In use, boot strap 132 is secured within passageway 118 and clip 102 is secured to the pant leg. Alternatively, clip 102 can be secured first to the pant leg and then strap 132 positioned within passageway 118.

In lieu of coupling member 74, a stretchable strap 120 is secured around ring 104 and secured to u-shaped member 110. Ring 104 can be constructed from the same materials as rings 68 and 73, such as metal, but such is not considered limiting.

Through strap 120 clip member 102 is movable with respect to u-shaped member 110 preferably for the same reasons as discussed above for the two clip front assembly 50. Additionally, Strap 120 can be secured to u-shaped member 110 through any conventional means. As illustrated in one attachment embodiment, a pair of slots 111 and 1 13 are formed in the body of u-shaped member 110 for feeding (slot 111) and returning (slot 113) strap 120.

Though not preferred it is possible and thus within the scope of the invention to use front assembly 50 with boot 130 and secure one of the clips 52 or 82 directly to strap 132.

As seen in Figure 12, where the boot has no lacing or strap, a front clip assembly 150 can be provided which incorporates an attachment mechanism permanently secured or incorporated into the front area of the boot, such as boot 180. Assembly 150 includes a clip member 152 which is similar to clip member 102 discussed above which is used to secure to the pant leg. A bracket 160 is provided for similar purposes as bracket 120. Thus, clip member 152 is permitted to pivot with respect to bracket 120. As there is nothing in the front of boot 180 to connect a clip to, front clip assembly 150 also comprises a locking member 164 having a female member 166 having a receiving area 168 and a male member 172 having an insertion portion 174.

Female receiving member 166 can be permanently secured on the front upper surface of boot 180 by any conventional mechanism. Male member 172 can be permanently secured to clip member 152 and includes a gripping area 176 which can be provided with a release 178 to disconnect male member 172 from female member 166 when insertion portion 174 is inserted within receiving area 168. The connection of male member 172 to female member 166 can operate similar to connecting and disconnecting a seat belt, though such is not considered limiting.

As seen in Figures 13 through 15, another embodiment generally designated as reference numeral 200 is illustrated for the front clip assembly where the footwear has no laces or straps. In this embodiment, a small snap lock or spring lock 214 can be attached to the boot. A clip member 202 (which can be similar to clip 52 or 82) attaches to the pant cuff similar to the other described embodiments. One or more stretch cords, bands, straps, laces, etc. (collectively referred to as "cords") can be secured to ring 204 (which can be similar to ring 68 or 73). The non secured end 208 of cords 206 are inserted through corresponding hole(s) 216 of locking mechanism 214 attached to the footwear 230. Stretch cords can be adjusted to whatever length by holding or squeezing buttons 218 on the sides of locking mechanism 214 which opens up hole(s) 216 to permit movement of the cords 206. Other opening and closing mechanisms can be used and are considered within the scope of the invention. Once cords 206 are at proper position, buttons 218 are no longer pushed in by the user can an internal spring device to close hole(s) 216 to lock cords 206 in place.

Figures 16 and 17 illustrate a first embodiment for the back clip assembly and is preferably designated as reference numeral 300. Back clip assembly 300 preferably includes a first clip member 310 having a top jaw 312 and a bottom jaw 314 operatively connected to each other and a second clip member 320 having a top jaw 322 and a bottom jaw 324 operatively connected to each other. Decorative elements 302 can be secured to the outer surface of top jaw 312 and top jaw 322 for aesthetic purposes and to at least substantially hide or disguise clip members 310 and 320. A link mechanism can secure clip member 310 to clip member 320. In one embodiment, the link can be one or more chain links 340. However, other link members having the same, more or less flexibility than chain links 340 can also be used and are considered within the scope of the invention.

An eyelet 350 is preferably secured to bottom jaw 314 and bottom jaw 324. Preferably eyelet 350 is secured to create an angular (non-parallel or non-perpendicular) relationship between an attached strap 354 and clip members 310 and 320. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to locate the eyelet such that strap 354 is in a non- angular relationship (parallel or perpendicular) with respect to clip members 310 and 320.

Each strap or band 354 (collectively referred to as strap 354) preferably contains an elastic or other expandable element such that it is preferably stretchable. A first strap 354a can be secured to first eyelet 350a and a second strap 354b can be secured to second eyelet 350b. Straps 354a and 354b can be provided with an adjuster or tri-glide 360 for adjusting its length. Strap 354a can also be secured to an eyelet 382a of heel anchor connector 380a. Heel anchor connector 380a is also provided with a large opening 384a that reduces in size to a small opening 386a. Similarly, strap 354b can also be secured to an eyelet 382b of heel anchor connector 380b. Heel anchor connector 380b is also provided with a large opening 384b that reduces in size to a small opening 386b.

Alternatively, in lieu of single strap or band 354, two straps can be provided for each strap 354. In this alternative embodiment, a first strap on one side can be secured to first eyelet 350a and a first strap on the other side can be secured to second eyelet 350b. Additionally, the first straps are secured to respective first openings 362 of adjuster/tri- glide 360. A second strap on each can be secured to the second openings of adjusters 360 and to the eyelet openings of heel anchor connectors 390. Each or both straps on both sides can be made of an expandable or stretchable material.

It should be recognized that it is also within the scope of the invention to eliminate adjusters/tri-glides 360a and 360b for the single strap version.

A heel anchor 390 having a screw portion 392 and a reel like portion 394 is preferably secured to the heel of the boot. Reel like portion 394 includes a first side wall 395, a second side wall 396 and an intermediate member 397 between the sidewalls. The diameter of large opening 384 is larger than the diameter of first side wall 395 and second side wall 396 such that heel anchor connector 380 can be positioned with respect to heel anchor 390 to align intermediate member 397 such that it can be received within small opening 386 of heel anchor connector 380. As the diameter of small opening 386 is smaller than the diameter of first side wall 395 and second side wall 396, heel anchor connector 380 remains secured to heel anchor 390. Additionally, the attachment of clip member 310 or 320 to the pant leg, the location of heel anchor on the boot heel, and the relatively short length for straps 354 and 370 (or a single strap), can cause the strap(s) to at least slightly stretch when back assembly 300 is secured, which helps to retain the position of reel like portion 394 within small opening 386.

Each clip member is preferably associated with a heel anchor 390. Thus, with a two clip back assembly, two heel anchors 390 are preferably secured to the boot heal, preferably one on each side. Though there are numerous ways of securing heal anchor 390 to the boot heel, in one securement mechanism the following steps can be performed (See Figures 22-24).

(1) The rear or back clip assembly 300 can be stretched against the back of the boot above the heel with left clip 310 against the left side and right clip 320 against the right side and the chain 340 stretched across the rear of the boot above the top of the heel. Preferably, the adjustable straps 354 and/or 370 are at their shortest length. Straps 354 and/or 370 are slightly stretched forward so that heel anchor connectors 380 are positioned at either side of the front side of the heel. A pen, marker, pencil, etc. can be used to mark the location for securing heel anchors 390.

(2) Using assembled screwdriver 400 (or another screwdriver or tool) which can be provided with the back clip assembly (See Figure 21 - drill bit 402 secured to handle 404 with flat side facing front), screwdriver 400 is manually twisted, preferably approximately ¹A inch into the marked spots on the left and right sides of the heel. The screw portion of heel anchor 390 is twisted into each hole, which requires some effort to ensure a secure and lasting insulation. Screwdriver 400 can be used for the twisting/turning attachment of a heel anchor 390 in each hole.

(3) Once the heel anchors 390 have been secured the back pant cuff can be rotated to the insider of the wearer's leg. Chain 340 can be folded over clip member(s) 310 and/or 320 such that the clip is facing out. The right clip member 320 is then secured to the pant leg and then the left clip member 310 is secured to the pant leg. The clip member attachments can also be reversed. . The pant leg caught between clip members 310 and 320 can then be stretched. The pant cuff can then be turned over and confirmation should be made that clip members 310 and 320 are correctly secured to the pant leg. Each heel anchor connector 380 is secured to its corresponding heal anchor 390 as discussed above. The process is then repeated for the other pant leg. (4) To attach the front clip assembly 50, the bottom portion (which can be the clip member having the larger decorative element - though such is not considered limiting) to the cross lace or strap of the front of the boot. Though any lace can be selected, in certain embodiments, the bottom lace may be chosen. The top clip member of the front clip assembly is then secured to the pant leg. However, it should be recognized that the order of attachment can be reversed.

Though a chain 340 is shown and described for back assembly 300, the invention is not limited to a chain and other items can be used in place thereof and are within the scope of the invention. Also the medallions and artwork can be changed in size, look, material, etc. In one non-limiting example, skull and crossbones could be used for the decorative element or alternatively a motorcycle engine could be used or a woman's style design with roses could also be provided, etc. Again the actual shapes, sizes, artwork, text, logo, etc is endless and all are considered within the scope of the invention. Some of the materials which can be used for the decorative elements, include, but are not limited to, plastic, aluminum, metal or any other material or combination of materials.

There are several ways for attaching the back clip assembly to the footwear, which include, but are not limited to a snap assembly, a clip assembly, a hook assembly, a pin style assembly, a seat belt connection like assembly, etc. Furthermore, a single clip rear/back assembly can be provided with a decorative element on the top and/or bottom and can also have a swivel. The band (strap or cord) attaches to the heel of footwear similar to that described for the other embodiments of the invention.

Additionally, as opposed to attaching to the heel of the footwear, a strap can be used which runs underneath the boot (footwear) in front of the heel so that it does not slip off.

Figures 19-20 illustrate an alternative rear clip assembly designated as reference numeral 500. In this embodiment, the clip members, chain (link connection), straps, eyelets, adjusters can all be similar or the same as that described above for rear clip assembly 300. The primary difference between the rear clip assemblies is that assembly 500 does not have a heel anchor connector 380 or heel anchor 390. Rather a pin 510 is secured at the end of stretchable strap 508 on each side of assembly 500. A hole is created in the heel of the boot on each side, preferably on an angle towards the back of the boot. Preferably, a plaque 520 or other member having an aperture 522 is secured to the heel with aperture 522 aligned with the hole created in the heel. To secure rear clip assembly, strap 508 is stretched to allow pin 510 to be inserted in aperture 522 and the boot heel hole at an angle. This angle relationship, in connection with the tight fit created by the stretchable strap 508 causes pin 510 to securely remain within aperture 522 and the boot heel hole.

Thus, in this male-female pin assembly 500 a hole can be drilled into the boot heel and the pin can actually go backwards at the angle of the strap to hold it in by itself. A sleeve can be disposed within the hole. Pin 510 can be provided with a small ball-bearing on it which slides into the sleeve, where it clips in (i.e. through internal recesses, indents, etc.) and where a little force is required to pop the pin out. The ball-bearing lock helps to prevent the pin from coming out of the sleeve (slot, etc.) in the footwear while the rider is traveling on a motorcycle or otherwise moving.

In another embodiment, at least a portion of pin 510 or a different pin can made of a magnetic material and the inside of the heel hole can be provided with a magnet or magnetic material, such that when the pin inserted in the hole, a magnet type bond or connection is created to help retain the pin within the hole.

In all embodiments, additional decorative elements can be provided on chain 340 such as, but not limited to, bullets, other medallions, etc. An additional clip can also be placed in the middle of the chain for a further attachment location for the back of the pant leg.

Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment 600 where two clip members are secured to the pant legs and a stretchable strap or band secured to both clip members goes underneath the boot. Depending on the attachment location of this embodiment on the pant legs, the embodiment can function as the rear clip assembly or can function as the sole attachment assembly to prevent the pant legs from traveling upward along the rider's legs. With this embodiment, there is no attaching directly to the footwear. The only connection points are the clips attaching to the pant cuffs.

Figures 25-27 illustrate a novel spring clip. Instead of a band, the clip provides spring action for the wearer's pant leg to move in and out. A decorative member can be provided on each end. The clip provides for movement its center where the pivot is by a spring action which comes in and out to provide more comfort and attachability. The spring (may be compression spring, leaf spring or other form of spring that will function by compressing when under pressure) can be placed within the inner cavity of the base section along the axis perpendicular to the axis of the pin holes. The upper section can then be placed above the base with the tab placed within the cavity of the base such that the spring is now in contact with the tab and the front end of the base's cavity. The base can be designed with small lips at the back edge of the cavity, which can be used to hold the sections together. With some pressure the upper section can be pressed down onto the base to create a snap around the lips of the base by way of flaps on the upper section that allow the upper section and the base to slide. The sliding motion can be constrained by the spring tension, thus, limited from moving back by the back of the cavity and limited from moving forward by the full compression of the spring.

Once the two sub-assemblies are put together, they can be pinned together through the pin holes and riveted such to allow rotation on the pin and small amount of axial "play" such that there is no binding. Ornaments or other decorative members may be attached to the end of the upper section as well as a secondary clamping piece that can create positive connection to either jeans, pants, or a section of the shoe (footwear). The ornament (decorative element) may be permanently or removably connected to the clamping piece or clip members through adhesives, riveting, screws, glue, fasteners, bolts, or other conventional connecting methods.

Once the entire assembly has been put together, one end of the assembly can be attached to a pants leg and the other end to a section of the shoe (footwear). The spring within the section, can allow an amount of adjustment (i.e. approximately V% inch, etc) to create proper tension to hold the pants down to the shoe (footwear) while the wearer is riding on a motorcycle or otherwise under aerodynamic forces that normally cause the pant legs to ride up.

For all front and back embodiments of the invention, the subject matter of the artwork, medallions, emblems, logos, advertisements, and other decorative items is endless and not limited to any particular topic. Several different types of clips can be used to attach the band (strap or cord) to the pant cuff, which include, but are not limited to, locking clips, snap clips, spring style clips where one squeezes to open, etc. Other types of clips can be used and are considered within the scope of the invention. The snap clip assembly is similar to snap clip assemblies found on jackets, which are incorporated by reference.

In all embodiments, the straps, cords, etc. can be provided with length adjusters. The strap can be either constructed from a stretchable or non-stretchable material.

Additionally, though described as a metal piece, portions or all of the front and/or back assemblies can be constructed from other materials such as, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, etc. It should be recognized that in certain illustrations, no decorative element is shown. It is within the scope of the invention to use the various clip assemblies with no decorative element. However, it should be understood that in the preferred embodiments decorative elements are provided to cover up or disguise the clips and to make the present invention more aesthetically pleasing, which should increase usage and in turn should reduce the amount of driving distractions. Thus, even where no decorative element is shown in the drawing, it is intended that there will preferably be a decorative element also included. The decorative element is not shown in the drawing so that the parts typically hidden behind the decorative element can be shown and understood.

Though the invention is primarily discussed above in connection with boots, it should be recognized that the present invention can be used with other types of footwear and such other uses are also considered within the scope of the invention.

Given its aesthetic characteristics, the front assemblies and/or the back assemblies can also be merely worn as a decorative, item or jewelry. Additionally, though discussed in connection with pant legs and footwear, the present invention can be used to maintain the position of other articles of clothing or items worn by an individual, such as, but not limited to, a shirt to pants, gloves to shirt or jacket sleeves, etc, and all are considered within the scope of the invention.

Though certain text and illustration of the provisional application have been removed from this application, applicant incorporates by reference the entire text and drawings of its provisional application which is identified above as if fully set forth herein.

While the invention has been described and disclosed in certain terms and has disclosed certain embodiments or modifications, persons skilled in the art who have acquainted themselves with the invention, will appreciate that it is not necessarily limited by such terms, nor to the specific embodiments and modifications disclosed herein. Thus, a wide variety of alternatives, suggested by the teachings herein, can be practiced without departing from the spirit of the invention, and rights to such alternatives are particularly reserved and considered within the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A device for attachment to a person's pant leg and footwear, said device comprising: a first clip assembly secured to a first of the rider's pant legs and secured to a first of the rider's footwear, said first footwear disposed on the rider's foot associated with the first of the rider's pant legs.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a second clip assembly secured to a second of the rider's pant legs and secured to a second of the rider's footwear, said second footwear disposed on the rider's foot associated with the second of the rider's pant legs.

3. The device of claim 1 further comprising a second clip assembly secured to the first pant leg and secured to the first footwear; wherein said first clip assembly secured at a front area of the first pant leg and a front area of said first footwear and said second clip assembly secured to a rear area of the first pant leg and a rear area of said first footwear.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein said first clip assembly comprises a first clip member, a second clip member and a coupling member securing the first clip member and the second clip member; wherein said first clip member is secured to a front area of the first pant leg and said second clip member is secured to a front area of the first footwear.

5. The device of claim 4 further comprising a first decorative element secured to said first clip member and a second decorative element secured to said second clip member; wherein said first clip member comprises a first pair of clamping jaws and said second clip member comprises a second pair of clamping jaw; wherein in use said first decorative element substantially hides said first pair of clamping jaws from ordinary view and said second decorative element substantially hides said second pair of clamping jaws from ordinary view.

6. A device for preventing a rider's pant legs from moving upward along the rider's legs while traveling on an opened wheeled vehicle, such as a motorcycle, said device comprising: a front clip assembly having a first clip member, a second clip member and a coupling member securing the first clip member and the second clip member; wherein said first clip member is secured to a front area of a pant leg and said second clip member is secured to a front area of a footwear; and a rear clip assembly having a first clip member, a second clip member linked to said first clip member and means for securing said rear clip assembly to a footwear; wherein said first clip member is secured to a first rear area of the pant leg and said second clip member is secured to a second rear area of the pant leg..

7. The device of claim 6 further comprising a first decorative element secured to said first clip member and a second decorative element secured to said second clip member; wherein said first clip member comprises a first pair of clamping jaws and said second clip member comprises a second pair of clamping jaw; wherein in use said first decorative element substantially hides said first pair of clamping jaws from ordinary view and said second decorative element substantially hides said second pair of clamping jaws from ordinary view.

8. The device for preventing of claim 6 wherein said means for securing is a heel anchor secured to the footwear and heel anchor connector secured to the rear first clip member through a strap.

9. The device for preventing of claim 6 wherein said means for securing is a hole in the heel of the footwear and a pin secured to the rear first clip member through a strap.