Handwear incorporating low-friction thenar segment

Abstract

Handwear articles, such as gloves, mittens and other multi-digit embodiments of handwear, are provided. Articles of the invention are especially suited for such tasks as window cleaning, and comprise one or more low-friction areas suitable for slidably using a shafted tool therewith. High-friction areas are also provided to assist in controlling tools. Handwear of the invention are thus especially useful with respect to handling tools, tool shafts, and any implement where control of the tool shaft and the tool are desirable. Articles of the inventions may also comprise one or more attachment surfaces or fastener pads adapted and arranged such that pairs of the handwear can be utilized or connected together, and such that articles of the invention can be easily attached to many objects having complementary attachment elements to allow the handwear, and the wearer, to operate efficiently in conjunction with many tools, articles, devices and surfaces, and in many environments.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application hereby claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 344,602 of Mahon, as filed on Aug. 30, 2010.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE[0002]All publications and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each such individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be so incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD[0003]The disclosed technology relates to handwear articles such as gloves and mittens, particularly to handwear articles that are used in an industrial or heavy working environment such as window cleaning.BACKGROUND[0004]Handwear articles, such as the type used for window washing, carpentry, gardening, the petrochemical industry, commercial fishing, cold storage, farm work and in the kitchen are typically formed from a knitted fabric made of cotton or polyester material. They may be reinforc...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a convenient and easy way to remove and replace handwear, such as gloves or mittens, without needing assistance. This allows users to keep their hands free for other tasks while still wearing the handwear. Professionals who use gloves, such as window cleaning personnel, can remove one glove while keeping the other hand full or occupied, and quickly put the glove back on without using the second hand. The invention also includes various versions of handwear, such as slider gloves, gloves with loops and hooks, and mittens with magnets. Additionally, there are inflatable pads that can be used to make handwear slide, such as for easier movement or to absorb shock.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional gloves are limited, however, in how they function, and in the advantages that they provide to any given task.

These limitations pertain especially to circumstances where conventional gloves are used with tools, tool shafts or other devices.

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