Protective footwear

Abstract

A protective footwear incorporating a special ballistic grade pliable protector designed to protect the vulnerable arch area of the foot from multi-directional punctures. As an integral part of the boot, the protector provides protection from different sharp objects having multiple angles of incident. The protector is made of multiple layers of woven ballistic fabric and is adapted to trap the sharp point of the protruding object in its fabric webbing preventing it from being redirected to a more vulnerable and exposed area of the foot.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 557,684 filed on Mar. 31, 2004BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to protective footwear and, more particularly, to protection against puncture injuries. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] All materials used in the manufacture of protective footwear for firefighters must satisfy minimum performance requirements for flame, heat, tear cut and puncture resistance as prescribed by The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). [0006] Traditionally, rubber or synthetic rubber has dominated firefighter footwear boots in the style commonly referred to as “bunker style”. More and more firefighters and other emergency responders are opting for leather (or synthetic fabric) boots. They offer enhanced comfort, breathability, flexibility and protection. Moreover, they can incorporate more features designed enhance the key performa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a protective insert for footwear that is designed to entrap sharp objects instead of blocking and deflecting them. The insert is made of multiple layers of woven ballistic material that provide flexible and contoured protection that moves with the foot of the wearer. The layers have different orientations to ensure that objects that penetrate the footwear are captured and directed away from vulnerable areas. The invention also includes a puncture protective arch insert and a lateral puncturing protector that can capture sharp objects and prevent them from causing harm. Overall, the invention enhances the safety and comfort of protective footwear for emergency responders and other professionals who need to protect their feet from sharp objects.

Problems solved by technology

Their activities are not limited to walking, but running or crawling in all types of debris—often on un-level or unstable flooring.

These areas are most susceptible to crushing injury from heavy objects falling.

It does not, however, address the problem of a penetrating object being deflected and causing injury to other areas of the foot.

The use of rigid inserts in the instep region poses possibility for further risks to the wearer.

Images