Athletic overshoe

Abstract

The present invention relates to a removable overshoe for cleated footwear configured for use on sports pitches or grass, comprising: a removable cover comprising a sole portion and an upper portion; wherein said sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material, configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and comprising one or more apertures each configured to grip a cleat; wherein upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening; wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity for receiving an article of footwear; and wherein the expandable elastic opening is configured to enable the overshoe to be removably mounted on cleated footwear article without use of a releasable fastener. Such overshoes may improve shoe grip while protecting both the shoe and user from injury and / or damage.

Description

[0001] ATHLETIC OVERSHOE

[0002] The present invention relates to a removable overshoe for cleated footwear, and more particularly cleated athletic footwear configured to be worn on sports pitches or grass, as well as to a kit comprising one or more overshoes and an aperture forming device configured to perforate a portion of the overshoe to accommodate one or cleats or studs.

[0003] Background

[0004] A sole of a footwear article, such as a shoe or boot, is generally provided with a textured portion to provide grip and prevent a wearer from slipping when walking or running. Such portions may be of particular importance in athletic footwear such as trainers and sports footwear. In some circumstance, cleats (for example studs and / or blades) or spikes may be provided on the sole of a shoe, such as on athletic footwear including football boots and the like. Such protrusions on the sole portion of athletic shoes may improve the overall grip of the shoe, especially when in contact with soft and / or deformable ground, such as muddy pitches, sand or the like.

[0005] For example, football and rugby boots may have studs and blades as cleat protrusions that aid the grip of the user on soft, muddy ground. Golfing shoes may have studs or spiked protrusions that aid in the grip on muddy and wet courses. Likewise, running shoes can comprise spikes on the shoe to aid the shoe’s grip with the ground.

[0006] The presence of such protrusions (e.g. studs, blades, cleats and / or spikes) may cause mud or other debris to clump and cling to the outer surface of the shoe between the protrusions, thereby reducing their effectiveness in providing grip.

[0007] Clumped mud and debris may also inhibit cleaning of athletic shoes, especially if allowed to dry upon its surface, and may further inhibit the traction abilities of the protrusions if allowed to harden and dry between periods of use. Moreover, where such debris is retained on the shoe surface it may odorise bad smells and harbour bacteria, mould and / or fungal spores.

[0008] Moisture may also be trapped leading to excessive wear and degradation of the footwear.

[0009] Removing the mud and debris from shoes creates mess, is time consuming and may be challenging to complete, particularly where a multiple of protrusions are present. Furthermore, shoe outers, which may include non-waterproof elements, may also need to be scrubbed, which can take time to dry before the shoe can be used again. Water penetration through athletic shoes during cleaning orwhile being worn, can also result in player injury through cold, and result in shoe damage, as well as creating an environment in which mould and fungus can flourish.

[0010] Existing overshoes, such as those found in EP 1462020, are known and may provide a means for covering cleated or studded shoes, such as football boots. Such overshoes have large open portions on the sole portions of the cover to allow studs to project from the overshoe, with each open portion configured to accommodate several protrusions. As such, these overshoes do not prevent the build-up of mud and debris between neighbouring protrusions, and thus do not assist in maintaining the ability of the protrusions to grip a ground surface and / or for efficient cleaning and removal of mud and debris from the footwear after use.

[0011] Further, such covers comprise fasteners, such as a zip-fastener, hook-and-loop (Velcro), press studs, laces or other connection elements to releasably secure the cover to the shoe during use. Such fasteners are liable to become dislodged, undone or otherwise loosened during active use, such as during tackles and the like. In addition, the fastener means itself may provide a safety hazard during player contact, with fastener components, such as zips becoming entangled with or abrading articles of a colliding player such as laces, fabric, skin and the like.

[0012] Where overshoes are configured to be worn over shoes with sole protrusions, overshoes may provide large expanses of open sections across the sole portion. Optionally, it may be necessary to remove any protrusions, such as studs, prior to fitting the overshoe. Overshoes such as those disclosed in DE-A-29 18 338 are provided with fastener such as zippers and snap buttons and are designed to provide a water and cold proof functionality to the user. Such overshoes are suitable for use only with athletic footwear in which any protrusions (studs) may be removed, wherein the fitting and removal of the overshoe requires the studs to be removed.

[0013] It is also known to provide brushes, bootclaws and / or other tools which may be used to physically remove mud from the shoes. However, such tools do not prevent mud from initially clumping between the studs, thereby inhibiting grip; they do not protect the shoe; and they cannot clean mud from porous shoe materials.

[0014] It would be beneficial to provide a means of preventing mud from sticking to footwear during the wearing of said footwear, particularly where such footwear comprises one or more protrusions extending from the sole, so as to maintain the ability of the protrusions to provide grip. In addition, it would be beneficial to provide a means for easily and quickly removing mud and debris from such footwear.

[0015] Aspects and embodiments in accordance with the present invention were devised with the foregoing in mind.

[0016] Description of the Invention

[0017] According to a first aspect of the invention, a removable overshoe for cleated footwear configured to be worn on sports pitches or grass is provided. The overshoe comprises a removable cover comprising a sole portion and an upper portion, wherein the sole portion comprises a flexible elastic material configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and one or more apertures, wherein each of the one or more apertures is configured to grip a cleat. The upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening for receiving a footwear article, wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to form an expandable cavity, wherein the expandable elastic opening is configured to enable the overshoe to be removably mounted on the cleated footwear article without use of a releasable fastener. The upper portion may be fixed to the sole portion by any suitable means, including but not limited to by sewing, gluing, ultrasonic seam welding or the like.

[0018] The overshoe may be configured for use in with any shoe, but is particularly suitable for use with athletic or sports shoes configured for use on sports pitches or grass, and more particularly on sports fields and / or grounds which have a mud-based terrain, i.e. pitch sports. The overshoes may also be suitable for use on manufactured pitches. This includes grass pitches for football, rugby, hockey, American football, and the like. It shall be understood that the term grass may include artificial grasses as well as natural grass surfaces. Thus, the overshoe may be configured for use with footwear designed to come into contact with a ground surface during use.

[0019] The provision of the upper portion affixed about the entire periphery of the sole results in the upper portion existing about all sides of a footwear article housed therein. Thus, the upper may envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article. Accordingly, the overshoe may envelop the entirety of the sole of an inserted footwear article, save for any protrusions on the sole, and at least a portion of peripheral portion of the footwear article. Since mud and debris are in greatest contact with the sole of the shoe or any overshoe mounted thereupon, the cover is able to prevent, or at least inhibit, mud and debris from contacting a surface of the shoe where it might be anticipated to most commonly occur.

[0020] The elasticity of at least the material configured to cover the sole of the footwear article may be selected to be of sufficient elasticity to permit each aperture to be stretched over a single cleat of the footwear article so as to permit the overshoe to be put on to a cleated sports shoe without the need to remove the cleats, while providing a tight enough fit about each of the one or more cleats when mounted, such the overshoe grips the cleats sufficiently robustly to prevent, or at least inhibit, ingress of mud, dirt or debris between the footwear article and the shoe cover through the apertures.

[0021] Suitably elastic materials may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of at least 180% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the selvage to selvage axis of the fabric of at least 8.1 inches.

[0022] Thus, suitable materials may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of at least 185%, at least 190%, at least 195%, at least 200%, at least 205%, at least 210%, at least 215%, at least 220%, at least 225%, at least 230%, or at least 235% of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of stretching about a cleat and to permit the overshoe to be put onto a footwear article without the need for a fastentable opening to be provided on the overshoe.

[0023] Suitably elastic materials may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of no more than 240% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the selvage to selvage axis of the fabric of no more than 10.8 inches.

[0024] Thus, suitable materials may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of less than or equal to 240%, 235%, 230%, 225%, 220%, 215%, 210%, 205%, 200%, 195%, 190%, or 185% of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of griping about a cleat on footwear article, to prevent the overshoe from becoming dislodged from the overshoe during use, and / or to prevent movement or gaping about the cleat sufficient to permit mud and / or debris to pass through the aperture and into the overshoe.

[0025] Optionally, suitable materials may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of 180% < stretchss s 240% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the selvage to selvage axis of the fabric of 8.1 inches < stretchss s 10.8 inches. For example, the fabric may have a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss) of 185% < stretchss s 235% of the unstretched length, 190% < stretchss s 230% of the unstretched length, 195% < stretchss s 225% of the unstretched length, 200% < stretchss s 220% of the unstretched length, 205% < stretchss s 215% of the unstretched length 185%, or 210 % < stretchss s 220% of the unstretched length.

[0026] Suitably elastic materials may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of at least 180% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the bias axis of the fabric of at least 8.1 inches.

[0027] Thus, suitable materials may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of at least 185%, at least 190%, at Ieast 195%, at least 200%, at least 205%, at least 210%, at least 215%, at least 220%, at least 225%, at least 230%, or at least 235% of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of stretching about a cleat and to permit the overshoe to be put onto a footwear article without the need for a fastentable opening to be provided on the overshoe.

[0028] Suitably elastic materials may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of no more than 240% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the bias axis of the fabric of no more than 10.8 inches.

[0029] Thus, suitable materials may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of less than or equal to 240%, 235%, 230%, 225%, 220%, 215%, 210%, 205%, 200%, 195%, 190%, or 185%, of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of griping about a cleat on footwear article, to prevent the overshoe from becoming dislodged from the overshoe during use, and / or to prevent movement or gaping about the cleat sufficient to permit mud and / or debris to pass through the aperture and into the overshoe.

[0030] Optionally, suitable materials may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of 180% < stretchB s 240% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the bias axis of the fabric of 8.1 inches < stretchB s 10.8 inches. For example, the fabric may have a bias stretch (stretchB) of 185% < stretchB s 235% of the unstretched length, 190% < stretchB s 230% of the unstretched length, 195% < stretchB > 225% of the unstretched length, 200% < stretchB s 220% of the unstretched length, 205%

[0031] < stretchB s 215%, or 210 % < stretchB s 220% of the unstretched length.

[0032] Suitably elastic materials may have a raw edge to raw stretch perpendicular to the salvage (stretchRR) of at least 133% That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a raw edge to raw stretch of at least 6.0 inches.

[0033] Thus, suitable materials may have a raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) of at least 135%, at least 140%, at least 145%, at least 150%, at least 205%, at least 155%, at least 160%, at least 165%, at least 170%, or at least 175% of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of stretching about a cleat and to permit the overshoe to be put onto a footwear article without the need for a fastentable opening to be provided on the overshoe.

[0034] Suitably elastic materials may have a raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) of no more than 178% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the selvage to selvage axis of the fabric of no more than 8.0 inches.

[0035] Thus, suitable materials may have a raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) of less than or equal to 178%, 175%, 170%, 165%, 160%, 155%, 150%, 145%, 140%, or 135% of the unstretched length so as to permit the apertures to be capable of griping about a cleat on footwear article, to prevent the overshoe from becoming dislodged from the overshoe during use, and / or to prevent movement or gaping about the cleat sufficient to permit mud and / or debris to pass through the aperture and into the overshoe. Optionally, suitable materials may have a raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) of 133% < (stretchRR) > 178% of the unstretched length. That is, a 4.5 inch sample of suitably elastic material may have a stretched length measured along the selvage to selvage axis of the fabric of 6.0 inches < stretchRR > 8.0 inches. For example, the fabric may have a raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) of 135% < stretchRR > 175% of the unstretched length, 140% < stretchRR > 170% of the unstretched length, 145% < stretchRR > 165% of the unstretched length, 150% < stretchRR > 160% of the unstretched length, 145% < stretchRR > 155%, or 150 % < stretchRR > 160% of the unstretched length.

[0036] In some embodiments, the elasticity of the fabric may be such that at least two of the selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss), bias stretch (stretchc) and raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) may be in accordance with a value or range set out above. Optionally, all three of the selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss), bias stretch (stretchs) and raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) may be in accordance with a value or range set out above.

[0037] Optionally, the upper may comprise a single piece of material and extend from one side of the sole periphery to the other, so as to extend across the top surface of any footwear housed within. Alternatively, the upper portion may comprise two or more sections of material fixed together, such as by sewing, gluing, ultrasonic seam welding or the like. The overshoe upper may have a structure which extends across the entirety of the upper of a footwear article housed therein, or at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or at least 95% thereof. That is, when in use, the overshoe may encompass the entirety of the footwear article, or a majority thereof, such as at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or at least 95% of the external surface thereof is covered by the overshoe. In some embodiments, the overshoe may encompass the entirety of the footwear article it is to be worn with. For example, the overshoe may be configured to extend above a conventional footwear article such as a football boot, and the rest against the skin or a sock of the user on the lower leg or ankle region. Where the upper portion is formed of an elastic material, the surface area of the upper portion when not under tension may be less than the surface area of the footwear article and / or at least one length of the upper when not under tension may be less than the corresponding length of the footwear article. Thus, the envelopment of the sides and / or top surfaces of the footwear article may result in the application of a compressive force that grips the overshoe to the sides and / or top surfaces of the footwear article, which may prevent slippage of the overshoe relative to the shoe. Further, by extending about the entire periphery of the sole, the upper portion may become stretched and extended lengthwise along the heel to toe-end axis of the footwear, as well as crosswise, assisting in preventing the overshoe from rucking or slipping during wear without the need for a fastening means.

[0038] The provision of an elastic upper portion further enables the upper portion to stretch and accommodate varying sizes and shapes of footwear articles. Thus, a single overshoe may be suitable for use with a wide range of athletic shoes. Optionally, the elasticity of the upper material should be suitable for gripping at least one, two or three UK shoes sizes to prevent slippage, which also being stretchable enough to allow for insertion of such sized shoes within the overshoe. Thus, a single overshoe may be sized and formed of a sufficiently elastic material to be mounted on and grip a selection of footwear articles of varying size and geometry and is not required to be sized and shaped for each individual design and size of footwear. Suitable materials may have a corresponding elasticity measured as a selvage to selvage stretch (stretchss), bias stretch (stretchc) and raw edge to raw stretch (stretchRR) as set out above.

[0039] Where the upper portion is configured to envelope a heel of the footwear, this can improve the overall grip of the footwear article by the overshoe, which in combination with the envelopment at the toe-end portion can provide a force that grips the shoe from toe-end to heel-end. The elastic material affords the upper portion to accommodate the size and shape of the heel by stretching and upon having been released, moulding to the shape of the heel, thereby aiding the overshoe to grip to the footwear and preventing, or at least inhibiting, the overshoe from slipping off the heel of the footwear.

[0040] The expandable elastic opening present in the upper portion of the overshoe provides an opening for the footwear, such as a shoe or boot to enter, in a similar manner as a shoe or boot upper provides an opening for the ingress and egress of a foot. Further, by forming the upper portion of a flexible, elastic material, the upper portion is enabled to provide a flexible and elastic opening, which may be stretched to accommodate the insertion of a shoe or boot. Once inserted the flexible, elastic material of the upper portion may exert a compressive force upon at least a portion of the surface of any footwear contained therein, enabling the overshoe to grip and conform to footwear. Thus, the overshoe may be releasably mountable on a footwear article without the need for any fastening means.

[0041] The ability to provide a removable overshoe for use with a footwear article wherein the removal overshoe does not require any fastening means to releasably secure the overshoe to the footwear article may provide a safer overshoe, particularly where the overshoe is to be used in contact sports such as football, rugby and the like. In particular, the absence fasteners such as, zips, hook and eye closures, laces, buttons, snap fasteners, press studs, clips, hooks, or variants thereof, removes, or at least reduces, the risk of the overshoes abrading or becoming entangled with a tackling player and or a portion of their apparel. In addition, the absence of such fasteners precludes the ability for the fasteners to become unfastened at an undesirable time which may result in a hazard. That is, unlike a fastener which may become undesirably unfastened during a tackle or other periods when the overshoe is in use, the compressive grip of the elastic material of the overshoe is maintained throughout the wearing of the overshoe. This prevents, or at least inhibits, the forming of trip hazards for both the user and surrounding parties in the form of a partially or wholly dislodged overshoe or a portion thereof, such as a lace or the like, and maintains the overshoe in the desired location throughout its use. In some embodiments the overshoe may encompass the fastener of the footwear, such as laces and the like and provide a smooth top surface to the overall footwear. This may afford better ball control.

[0042] In addition, the provision of a suitably elastic material to provide a means for securing the overshoe may provide a more efficient means for mounting and removing the overshoe.

[0043] The provision of one or more apertures in the sole portion of the overshoe permits one or more protrusions of the footwear article, such as stud, cleats, spikes or the like to be accommodated. Thus, the overshoe can be used with sporting footwear such as football boots, rugby boots, golf shoes and the like. Further, the provision of an elastic material surrounding each of the one or more apertures enables the overshoe to grip any protrusions on a footwear article mounted therein, such as any cleats (studs and / or blades), spikes or the like. Thus, the apertures may assist in securing the overshoe and prevent rotation or twisting of the overshoe about a footwear article during use.

[0044] In use, the flexibility of the elastic material about the one or more apertures may cause repeated distortions in the surface of the sole portion by the stretching and compression of the material as it contacts the ground and is distorted friction as a result of between the lower surface of the cover and the ground. This repeated distortion in the immediate vicinity of the cleats and / or spikes have surprisingly been found to reduce and / or prevent build-up of mud and debris in the vicinity of the protrusions. Thus, the provision of an overshoe having an elastic portion on the sole thereof may improve the grip of a cleated or spiked athletic shoe or boot by reducing the build-up of mud and debris around the cleats and / or spikes. This maintains the height differential between the cleats and / or spikes compared to the main sole surface, allowing the protruding cleats and / or spikes to grip a soft or distortable ground surface such as mud and / or sand.

[0045] The provision of an elastic portion about the periphery of each aperture further enables the overshoe to be mounted on a cleated or studded footwear article without the need to first remove the studs of cleats by instead stretching over the protrusions during the placement process and remaining stretched about them during wear. As such, the overshoe may be worn with studded and / or cleated footwear in which one or more of the studs or cleats is not removable from the footwear. In addition, the overshoe can be worn with studded and / or cleated footwear in which one or more of the studs or cleats is removable from the footwear, but without the need to physically remove them, enabling the overshoe to be put on and removed more quickly, easily and cleanly by the user. Optionally, at least 80% of the sole portion is formed of a flexible elastic material, and optionally at least 90%, 95% or 98% of the sole portion is formed of a flexible elastic material. In some embodiments, the entirety of the sole portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material. Such materials may provide enhanced gripping of the one or more protrusions on the sole of a footwear article about the one or more apertures. This may prevent dislodgement of the overshoe while being worn, and may also prevent or reduce the ingress of dirt and debris between the overshoe and a cleated or spiked footwear article mounted therein. In addition, use of a flexible elastic material may enable the overshoe to fit flush with sole of the footwear article in use, while also allowing the sole to be surface to distorted (stretched and compressed) in different regions as a result of friction during contact with the ground surface, for example during running and sliding on a muddy surface or the like. This distortion acts to dislodge mud and debris from the sole of the overshoe during use.

[0046] Where a material has too great an elasticity, the overshoe may be prone to slippage during use, and / or permit mud and other debris to enter the overshoe through the one or more apertures about the cleats. This may result in a bulk forming along the base of the shoe reducing the effective height differential between the cleats and the main sole surface, reducing the effectiveness of the cleats at gripping a floor surface such as a sports pitch or field.

[0047] Suitably elastic materials which permit the overshoe to be stretched over a footwear article without the need for either removing any cleats or spikes prior to mounting the overshoe or providing any openable fastening to loosen the overshoe for mounting, while retaining sufficient tension to sufficiently grip the cleats or spikes so as to prevent ingress of mud, dirt or debris through the cleat apertures between the sole of the footwear article and the overshoe may have exhibit stretch values of: stretchB s 180% of the unstretched length, stretchss s 180% of the unstretched length, and / or (stretchRR) > 133% of the unstretched length. Optionally, at least two of these conditions are met, or all three of these conditions are met.

[0048] According to one or more embodiments suitably elastic materials have stretch properties wherein 180% < stretchB s 240% of the unstretched length, 180% < stretchss s 240% of the unstretched length, and / or 133% < (stretchRR) > 178% of the unstretched length. Optionally, at least two of these conditions are met, or all three of these conditions are met.

[0049] According to some embodiments the extent of stetch provided along two axes may be at least 150% of the unstretched length while the extent of stetch provided along the third axis is less than or equal to 150% of the unstretched length. That is the fabric may be stretched to at least 1 .5 times it resting length in two axis, but no more than 1 .5 times its resting length in the third axis. It has surprisingly been found that such a stretch configuration ensures significant two- dimensional stretch to permit the over shoe from being positioned over the shoe without the need for an openable fastening, while maintaining an axis having significantly less stretch which aids with the grip of the cleats and prevents undesired dislodgement of the cover while in use. Optionally, the extent of stetch provided along two axes may be 200% or more of the unstretched length.

[0050] Such overshoes may also have sufficient elasticity to permit distortion of the sole of the overshoe during contact with the ground while running to dislodge mud and debris while maintaining a sufficient grip of the cleats to prevent dislodgement of the overshoe. That is, the elasticity of the fabric may result in localised regions of expansion and compression of the sole surface upon impact with the ground when running. While small pockets or clumps of mud and debris may be retained during such fabric distortions, larger clumps of mud and debris may be sheered from the overshoe surface by such movement causing them to fall away from the cover.

[0051] Conversely, overshoes having too high an elasticity may be found to distort easily with clumps of mud or debris negating the shearing effect and permitting larger clumps to be maintained on the overshoe. Further, athletic shoes which are not provided with a flexible soled overshoe and thus have a non-elastic sole do not provide any means of sole distortion to permit the shearing away of clumps of mud and debris.

[0052] A flexible, elastic sole portion can additionally enable the expansion of the sole portion of the overshoe to accommodate footwear articles of different shapes and sizes, while maintaining grip between the overshoe and the footwear article.

[0053] In some embodiments, the upper portion, the sole portion or both the upper and sole portion comprise at least one of a waterproof or fray resistant material. The provision of a fray resistant material may prevent breakdown of the material at any cut surface, which may potentially include any edges about the one or more apertures on the sole portion, and / or a main opening in the upper portion wherein the footwear may be inserted. As a result, structural integrity including grip strength when stretched may be maintained following the repeated mounting and removal of the overshoe from a footwear article and during wear.

[0054] The provision of a waterproof material may advantageously prevent mud and / or moisture from penetrating through the overshoe to a footwear article housed therein. Thus, the provision of a waterproof material may increase a user’s warmth and comfort, particularly wherein the footwear articles are to be worn for long period and / or in repeatedly in quick succession, wherein a fabric portion of the footwear article may not otherwise have time to dry between usage.

[0055] Optionally a material may be provided which is water-resistant or has water-resistant properties. Such materials may absorb water upon prolonged and / or extensive water contact.

[0056] Materials may be selected which absorb less than their dry mass equivalent of water when exposed to moist conditions, such as contact with rain for an extended period of up to thirty minutes. This may limit or reduce fabric distortion due to the weight of the moisture, minimise the overall mass that a wearer has to carry when wearing the overshoe in wet conditions and / or reduce the potential for water damage to the footwear or discomfort to the user.

[0057] The overshoe may comprise of be formed of any suitable material or mixture of materials. Suitable flexible, elastic materials may include, but not be limited to woven and non-woven elastomers, synthetic rubbers and latexes (including but not limited to polychloroprenes, colloquially known as neoprene, nitrile rubber, polyisoprene, styrene-butadiene rubbers, silicone rubber, and the like), and natural rubber. Optionally, the overshoe may comprise solely flexible, elastic materials. Optionally, the overshoe may comprise a single flexible, elastic material. Suitably, the flexible material may have stretch values of 180% < stretchB s 240% of the unstretched length, 180% < stretchss s 240% of the unstretched length, and / or 133% < (stretchRR) > 178% of the unstretched length.

[0058] While any suitable material may be used, in some embodiments the overshoe comprises neoprene. The neoprene may form some or all of the upper portion, the sole portion, or both the upper and sole portions of the overshoe. Optionally, a trim may be provided about the overshoe opening. The trim may be formed of the same or different material to the upper and / or sole portion. Optionally, the trim may be formed of neoprene.

[0059] In some embodiments, the overshoe is predominantly or whole formed of neoprene. For example, the overshoe may comprise at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 98% or 100% neoprene by weight to the nearest percent. Neoprene may be flexible, elastic, fray resistant, and / or waterproof depending on the processing applied. Neoprene is also lightweight and thermally insulating. Thus, neoprene may enable a lightweight and durable overshoe to be provided, wherein the overshoe is flexible enough to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris between or about one or more cleats and / or spikes of an inserted footwear article. In addition, the foam like structure of the neoprene may provide a cushioning effect during impact, such as during tackles, and maintain the warmth and dryness of a user’s foot and / or footwear article. Neoprene is also thermally insulating. Neoprene is also washable and quick drying such that the overshoe can be re-used again in a quick turnaround time compared to alternative woven materials.

[0060] Neoprene conventionally comprises polyester and spandex in different ratios. In embodiments according the invention, the overshoe may be formed of neoprene comprising 90% < polyester > 96% and 4% < spandex > 10%.

[0061] Neoprene may have a range of material thicknesses, yarn and / or fibre thicknesses, thread densities and weaves and the like. Such primary parameters may affect the elasticity of the material. Neoprene may preferably be selected to have elastic properties wherein the stretch values of the fabric include a stretch value of 180% < stretchB s 240% of the unstretched length, 180% < stretchss s 240% of the unstretched length, and / or 133% < (stretchRR) > 178% of the unstretched length. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the overshoe may have any suitable thickness. The upper portion of the overshoe may have a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, from about 0.6 mm to about 8 mm, from about 0.7 mm to about 7 mm, from about 0.75 mm to about 6.5 mm, from about 0.8 mm to about 6 mm, from about 0.9 mm to about 5.5 mm, from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1 .2 mm to about 4.5 mm, from about 1.4 mm to about 4 mm, from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm, or from about 2 mm to about 2.5 mm. In some arrangements, the thickness of the upper portion may be around 1 mm, 2 mm or 3 mm.

[0062] The provision of a thicker upper portion, such as a thickness of 2mm or more, 3mm or more or 5mm or more, may enable the upper portion to provide a cushioning or protective effect to the wearer, with the effect generally increasing with higher thicknesses of fabric. This may be particularly advantageous where the overshoe is to be worn with athletic footwear for use in sports where contact may occur, such as football where tackling may cause injury to a player’s foot. In some embodiments, the sole portion of the overshoe may have any suitable thickness. The sole portion of the overshoe may have a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, from about 0.6 mm to about 2.9 mm, from about 0.7 mm to about 2.8 mm, from about 0.8 mm to about 2.7 mm, from about 0.9 mm to about 2.6 mm, from about 1 .0 mm to about 2.5 mm, from about 1 .1 mm to about 2.4 mm, from about 1 .2 mm to about 2.3 mm, from about 1 .3 mm to about 2.2 mm, from about 1 .4 mm to about 2.1 mm, from about 1 .5 mm to about 2.0 mm, from about 1.6 mm to about 1.9 mm, or from about 1.7 mm to about 1.8 mm. In some arrangements, the thickness of the sole portion may be about 0.5 mm, 1 mm or 2 mm. Preferably, the sole portion has a thickness that is less than the thickness of the upper portion.

[0063] The selection of a suitable thickness can depend on, for example, the footwear article in use, the level of insulation required, the requirement for padding, and the depth of any cleats and / or spikes. For example, an overshoe for use in colder temperatures or wetter conditions may preferably have a thicker thickness than an overshoe for use in warm temperatures or drier environment. Further, a thinner sole portion may result in less of a reduction in the height differential between the cleats or spikes and the outer sole of the overshoe. This may better maintain grip of the ground surface by the cleats and / or spikes. A thinner sole portion may further provide insufficient grip of the one or more cleats permitting the cover to be more easily dislodged.

[0064] While any suitable shape of aperture can be used, in some embodiments, the aperture shape is selected from one or more of the group comprising: circular, oblong, rectangular, fin-shaped, triangular and quadrilateral. Such apertures may mirror the shape of one or more cleats (studs and / or blades) or spikes of a footwear article. Further, the cross-section of the aperture may optionally be tapered.

[0065] In some embodiments, the sole portion comprises two or more apertures, preferably between

[0066] 3 and 9 apertures, and particularly preferably 6 apertures. For example, the sole may comprise from 1 to 12 apertures, from 2 to 11 apertures, 3 to 10 apertures, from 4 to 9 apertures, 5 to 8 apertures, or from 6 to 7 apertures.

[0067] For football boots and the like, conventional cleat sizes may be around 10mm in diameter, where round. T riangular or other shaped cleats may be of a broadly similar size and may have sides that are approximately 10 mm in length.

[0068] Apertures are provided having a smaller cross-sectional area than that of the cleats of the footwear article

[0069] In accordance with one or more embodiments, the at rest aperture size is less than or equal to 3 / 4 cross sectional area of the cleat to be gripped. Thus, when the overshoe is mounted on a cleated footwear article and the cleats placed through respective apertures, the cleat is gripped. Optionally, the at rest aperture size be less than or equal to 2 / 3 the cross-sectional area of the cleat to be gripped, less than or equal to 1 / 2 the cross-sectional area of the cleat to be gripped or less than or equal to 1 / 4 the cross sectional area of the cleat to be gripped.

[0070] Optionally, the apertures may have at rest size from 1 / 10 to 3 / 4 the cross-sectional area of the cleat to be gripped, such as from 1 / 5 to 2 / 3 or from 1 / 4 to 1 / 2 the cross-sectional area of the cleat to be gripped. Preferably, an aperture may be around 1 / 3 smaller in each length compared to the cleat to be griped. Thus, an aperture may be sized to have a diameter of from 6mm to 7.3mm at rest to accommodate a 10mm circular cleat, or may be triangular wherein each side length is about from 6mm to 7.3mm at rest to accommodate a triangular cleat having 10mm sides.

[0071] At rest shall be understood to represent the state of the overshoe when not mounted on a footwear article.

[0072] In some embodiments, the upper portion may comprise a padding material. The padding material maybe integrally formed with the upper portion or may be removably mounted within or thereto. For example, the upper portion may have a suitable thickness, such as a thickness of 5mm or more so as to provide a padding effect. Alternatively or in addition, the padding may be provided as an ancillary material which may be formed of the same or a different material to the upper portion and may be positioned in a pocket of, or removably affixed to an inner surface of, the upper portion.

[0073] The padding material may comprise any suitable material, including but not limited to a natural or synthetic foam or fabric material, such as a neoprene, felt, wool or the like.

[0074] In some embodiments, the upper portion and sole portion can comprise the same material, or the upper and sole portion can each comprise at least one of a different material. The material of the upper portion and sole portion can be of the same thickness, or the material of the upper portion and sole portion may have a different thickness. Preferably, the thickness of the sole portion is less than the thickness of the upper portion, which can benefit by way of preventing the sole portion from interfering with the function of the footwear protrusion. Meanwhile, the upper portion may be thicker to provide cushioning in the event of tackles, and warmth for the wearer.

[0075] In a second aspect, there is provided a kit comprising one or more removable overshoes and an aperture forming device; wherein the one or more removable overshoes comprises a sole portion and an upper portion. At least a part of the sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material, and the sole portion is configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and the sole portion. Further, the upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening. The upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity. The aperture forming device comprises a punch die, the cutting edge of which is shaped to form an aperture, and a base plate, wherein the punch die and base plate are pivotably articulated to form a puncture device. The use of the punch die upon an overshoe as recited in the second aspect of the invention may be suitable for producing an overshoe in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

[0076] Any suitable punch device may be used, wherein the application of the punch device to the sole portion of the overshoe is capable of perforating the sole portion of the overshoe to form an aperture. Thus, the punch device may be used to position one or more apertures in an overshoe by a user. This permits the user to place an appropriate number of apertures in the overshoe to confirm with the number of protrusions on a given footwear article, and at corresponding locations on the sole.

[0077] Since the sole of the overshoe comprises an elastic material, it may not be necessary for the user to punch an aperture in the sole of the overshoe which exactly corresponds with the size and / or shape of the protrusion to be accommodated. Thus, a kit may be provided in which a single punch die may be suitable for multiple sized protrusions and thus may be able to produce an overshoe which is compatible with a multitude of cleated and / or spiked footwear. Further, the provision of a small set of dies, for example two, three, four or five dies may be able to accommodate the formation of a wide array of cleats, studs and spikes.

[0078] In some embodiments, two or more punch dies may be provided wherein the two or more punch dies may have varying shaped or sized cutting edges. For example, a kit may be provided two or more punch dies which enable the user to produce apertures in the sole portion having at least two shapes and / or the same shape in two or more sizes.

[0079] Optionally, the number of punch dies corresponds to the total number of apertures or differently sized apertures to be punched in the overshoe, where such apertures may correspond with a particular or standard design of a cleated or spiked footwear article. Optionally, multiple cutting edges may be provided on a single die and are arranged to punch a plurality of apertures in the overshoe in a particularly desired arrangement. Thus, in some embodiments, a single punch die may be provided which permits the simultaneous cutting or more than one aperture in a sole portion of the overshoe. This arrangement could correspond to an arrangement of protrusions on a footwear article, for example, as shown in figure 1 below.

[0080] As such, the configuration of the punch die may act as a template that defines the configuration of multiple apertures to be punched in the overshoe. Such dies may be supplied to provide a multitude of apertures corresponding to commonplace stud, cleat and / or spike configurations, and / or stud, cleat and / or spike for specific brands, styles and / or types of footwear.

[0081] In some embodiments, a punch die may be provided in which the diameter or size of the cutting edge may be varied by the user. For example, where a circular die is provided, the used may be enabled to vary the radius of the cutting edge.

[0082] Optionally, the kit may further comprise a maker to provide means to mark areas of the overshoe to be punched in order to provide apertures as a desired location for a particular shoe. Any suitable material for marking may be provided, including but not limited to chalk, ink or paint.

[0083] An example of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0084] Figure 1 illustrates two overshoes according to the first aspect of the present invention, as formed from the use of the kit according to the second aspect of the present invention, depicting a top and bottom view of the overshoes, wherein each overshoe has a football boot mounted therein.

[0085] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an overshoe of figure 1 .

[0086] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of an overshoe of figure 1 .

[0087] Figure 4 illustrates a bottom view of an overshoe of figure 1 , showing a front (toe-end) portion of the sole of the overshoe. Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view of an overshoe of figure 1 , showing a heel portion of the sole of the overshoe.

[0088] Figure 6 illustrates a side view of an aperture forming device according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 7 illustrates a bottom view of an unperforated overshoe, wherein said overshoe has a football boot mounted therein.

[0090] Figure 8 illustrates a bottom view of the unperforated overshoe of figure 7, wherein the location of the protruding studs are marked up onto the outer surface of the sole portion of the overshoe.

[0091] Figure 9 illustrates the aperture forming device of figure 6 in use with the marked up, unperforated overshoe of figure 8.

[0092] Figure 10 illustrates a bottom view of the overshoe of figure 9 perforated by the kit depicted in figure 9, thereby forming an overshoe according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0093] Figure 11 illustrates soles for using in forming an overshoe according to the invention comprising different shaped apertures.

[0094] Figure 12 illustrates a top perspective view of an overshoe according to the present invention.

[0095] Figure 13 illustrates a top and bottom view of an overshoe according to the present invention.

[0096] Figure 14 illustrates mud and debris clumping on the soles of cleated athletic footwear.

[0097] Figure 15 illustrates a substantial absence of mud and debris clumping on the soles of cleated athletic footwear covered by an overshoe according to the present invention.

[0098] Figure 16 provides a graphical representation of stretch in different elastic materials. Figure 17 provides a graphical representation of mud and debris retention on overshoes of different materials during 15 minutes of use.

[0099] Figure 18 provides a graphical representation of mud and debris retention on overshoes of different materials during extended use.

[0100] Now referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a removable overshoe (1) for a football boot (2) according to a specific embodiment of the invention. An upper portion (3) and sole portion (4) are provided. Each being formed of the same material; namely neoprene, which is flexible and elastic. Alternatively, other materials may be used.

[0101] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the upper portion (3) comprises two sub-parts (3a and 3b) which are joined along a seam line 5. The provision of multiple sub-parts of the upper portion enables a larger, and / or more highly domed cavity to be formed for the accommodation of the footwear article. The upper portion further comprises an elastic bridge (6) that connects a first sub-part (3a) to a second sub-part (3b) of the upper portion and provides additional material on this top portion of the overshoe, thereby further expanding the size of the footwear accommodating cavity as well as increasing the perimeter of the opening (7) through which the footwear article may enter the overshoe. In alternative embodiments, the upper portion may be formed from a single-part. Where the upper is formed of a single part, there may be no need to provide a bridge. This optionally the bridge may not be present and the upper portion may instead be formed as a single component.

[0102] The use of neoprene, or another elastic material enables the cavity to be stretched and expanded to accommodate the footwear article (2), and to grip the mounted boot without the need for fastenings such as laces, a zipper, hook and loop tape, studs or the like. That is, the flexible, elastic neoprene of the overshoe grips the surface of the football boot (2) due to the release of the elasticity of the neoprene following the stretching over and mounting of the football boot. The laces of the football boot can be protected by tucking them away in the cavity of the overshoe. This may prevent the laces from becoming undone prematurely, such as during a sporting match, where they may present a trip hazard.

[0103] The upper portion (3) is stitched to the sole portion (4) about the periphery (8) of the sole portion. This stitching extends about the entire periphery of the sole. Alternatively or in addition, it maybe envisaged that the sole any upper portions may be glued or otherwise affixed about this periphery by any suitable means. Where both glue and stitching is used, the join may be strengthened.

[0104] Twelve apertures (9) are present in the sole (4) of the overshoe, and have a substantially triangular shape, consistent with the size and shape of the 12 triangular-prism shaped protrusions (studs) (10) of the football boot (2). In use the studs (10) protrude from the sole portion (4) of the overshoe where they may provide their intended function of gripping a ground surface such as a pitch or the like.

[0105] Suitable aperture (9) shapes according to the invention are further depicted in Figure 11 . Apertures have a reduced cross-sectional area at rest compared to the cross sectional area of a footwear cleat. This enables the cleats to be gripped by the overshoe sole about the periphery of the aperture. As depicted in Figures 11 and 14, the aperture size at rest is less than 1 / 4 the cross-sectional area of the cleat. Alternatively, larger apertures having an at rest size from 1 / 4 to 2 / 3 the size of the cleat may be provided.

[0106] To mount the overshoe on a footwear article, the user may grip the overshoe upper about the opening (7) and push their booted foot into this opening to expand the cavity. The opening may be bound with binding (22) about the exposed edge to reduce fray and minimise unintentional dislodging of the overshoe, as shown in figure 12. Where the boot comprises removable studs or cleats these can optional be removed or maintained affixed to the sole of the boot during fitting of the overshoe. As the boot enters the overshoe, the sole portion may be stretched and pulled away from the sole of the boot to allow any protrusions to traverse the inside of the overshoe until the boot is in a desired position within the shoe. At this point, it the user releases the sole of the overshoe, this will revert to contacting the sole of the boot under tension, which the protrusions aligning with the apertures. Where the protrusions are tapered, the apertures may naturally align with any protrusions and the compressive force between the elastic portions of the upper and sole materials may pull the sole of portion of the overshoe to be flush with the sole of the boot, such that the protrusions extend through the apertures. Alternatively and / or in addition, the wearer may assist this placement by stretching the apertures about the one or more protrusions.

[0107] Once mounted, the overshoe may provide a smooth top surface (21) to the footwear, as depicted in Figures 12 and 13. This may aid with ball control where a ball is struck by a user with the top of their foot. The provision of a trim (22) may further aid in preventing fraying of the elastic fabric and increase the grip of the overshoe to the athletic footwear.

[0108] As shown by Figures 14 and 15, the provision of an elastic sole surface prevents build up of dirt, mud and debris, particularly wet or moist dirt, mud and debris on the bottom surface of the shoe, leaving the cleats better exposed so as to grip a ground or pitch surface.

[0109] Where a kit is provided according to the second aspect of the invention, the aperture forming device (11) may be used to form apertures (9) in an unperforated overshoe (17a).

[0110] A pre-apertured overshoe (17a), as provided in the kit according to the second aspect of the invention, can be disposed between a first, cutting edge, portion (13) and second, receptor, portion (15) of the aperture forming device (11), such that when a compressive force is applied by a user between the first and second portions an aperture is cut. As shown in Figure 6, the cutting edge (13) is mounted opposite a corresponding receptor portion (15). However, alternative arrangements may also be provided. For example, the cut may be achieved by a shearing action to two opposing cutting edges. The external surface of the sole portion is preferably positioned such that when a punch die of the device is moved vertically towards the base plate, the punch die punctures the external surface of the overshoe through to the cavity on the internal surface of the overshoe. The punch die can thus be used to form an aperture in the sole of the overshoe. The punch device forms a circular aperture, having a smaller cross-sectional area than the stud (10), such that, in use the overshoe aperture may be stretched over the protruding stud (10) to provide a griping effect, thereby preventing the egress of dirt or debris through the aperture.

[0111] The cutting edge (13) of the punch die is comprises a sharpened edge suitable for cutting. Any suitable material may be used, including but not limited to metals, plastics, and ceramics. The receptor portion (15) may comprise any suitable material, including plastic, metal or ceramic and may or may not be integrally formed with the main body of the puncture device 11. Optionally, the receptor portion (15) may comprise a deformable material such as natural or synthetic rubber, foam or the like. Where a deformable material is used, this may be mounted on or inset into an distal portion (14) of the puncture device.

[0112] The base plate is connected to a vertical support by way of a pivot (16). The pivot enables vertical movement and optionally circular motion around the vertical support such that the cutting surface (13) may be positioned about a desired portion of the overshoe and brought into a compressing contact to cut the sole portion.

[0113] In some embodiments, the punch die and / or base plate can include articulated connections to a vertical support such that in use the positioning of the apertures can be carefully controlled. Accordingly, the punch die and base plate can be pivotably articulated to form a puncture device.

[0114] To use the kit according to the second aspect of the invention, a user can mount an unpunched overshoe on a footwear article comprising sole protrusions, as shown in Figure 7. The presence of the protrusions may distort the flexible elastic sole material of the overshoe, providing raised portions (18a), which may be marked by the user, for example with chalk, ink, paint or the like, as depicted in Figure 8. Once marked, the overshoe is removed from the footwear article and punch device is positioned such that the cutting edge (13) is positioned above the marked sole (19) and the receptor portion (15) is positioned on the opposing side of the fabric. Compressive pressure is then applied by the user to arms (12a and 12b) at any position along these arms causing pivoting about hinge (16) until the cutting edge (13) is forced through the material and onto the receptor plate (15), thereby producing an aperture. The process is then repeated for each of the marked points on the sole.

[0115] Although not depicted, a variety of different sized and / or shaped punches may be supplied, for example to additionally or alternatively punch elongated shapes to accommodate cleats, and / or spikes of different sizes. This may ensure that the aperture produced is always suitable smaller than the protrusion so as to be able to grip said protrusion, while still being of a suitable shape and size so as to be stretched about it.

[0116] Also envisaged, but not shown, is a corresponding punch die having more than one cutting edge. Such punch dies may match a particular stud and / or cleat layout of a footwear article to enable multiple apertures to be punched at once.

[0117] While it may be preferable to provide apertures that are smaller than the corresponding protrusions, to maximise the grip of the overshoe to the footwear article and to minimise slippage, apertures may be provided that are of a different size and / or shape to the protrusion. As shown in Figure 10, an aperture may be larger than the corresponding protrusion.

[0118] The provision of a larger aperture may make it easier and quicker to mount the overshoe. In addition, where overshoes are to be re-used with different footwear articles, such as being shared by a team, the provision of slightly larger apertures coupled with the elastic, flexible sole and upper may enable the overshoe to be compatible with a selection of footwear articles.

[0119] By way of example only, some footwear suitable for use with the present invention will now be described.

[0120] Footwear comprising protrusions (cleats) vary in the number of protrusions dependent on the intended use. For example, football boots typically comprise six protrusions substantially conical and can comprise additional protrusions of an alternative or the same shape. For example, some football boots can comprise 20 or more protrusions. For example, golf shoes typically comprise between 6 and 8 protrusions (spikes). For example, running shoes typically comprise between 3 and 8 protrusions (spikes or pins).

[0121] Footwear comprising protrusions (cleats) are available in a plethora of different protrusion shapes. For example, football and rugby boots can comprise protrusions, often termed studs or blades, that are trapezoid prisms, conical, triangular prism, rhombohedron, or irregular shapes that are substantially shaped thereof. In such examples, the protrusions can also be a combination of different three-dimensional shapes. In another example, running shoes, climbing shoes, and golfing shoes can comprise protrusions, often termed spikes, that can be substantially pin shaped or substantially thin rectangular

[0122] It will be appreciated that any of the optional features of any of the embodiments described herein could also be provided with one or more of any of the other embodiments described herein.

[0123] Waterproof is taken to mean an impedance to the transfer of water through a material. In the context of the present invention, it is not taken to mean a complete impervious barrier to water. It is understood that the degree of waterproofing is dependent on variable factors such as the thickness of the material.

[0124] Punch dies are taken to mean a cutting tool used in punching work. The die is the shaped aspect that and the punch is a universal part that pushes the die to punch it through a material.

[0125] Footwear protrusions are intended to be interpreted as cleats for footwear. These cleats are typically found on athletic shoes. They are typically designed for gripping to prevent the user losing their footing.

[0126] Examples

[0127] A series of overshoes were formed from elastic materials as set out in Table 1 below. The elasticity of each material was measured along each of the three axes, namely in along the selvage to selvage axis, raw edge to raw edge axis perpendicular to the selvage, and on the bias.

[0128] Table 1 - Material elasticities

[0129] To measure the elasticity a 4.5 inch square of fabric was cut from each sample. Each material was then placed under tension along each axis resulting in a stretch. The maximum stretch along each axis was determined to be the maximum stretch which could be achieved by a user without resulting in structural damage, such as tearing, ripping, permanent distortion or the fabric or the like. As shown in Figure 16, the observed elasticity was found to vary extensively for the different materials tested. Such parameters are controllable as a function of multiple variables including but not limited to material composition, thickness, yarn or fibre thickness, strand density and weave. Target elasticities can be selected from manufactures and / or by varying these parameters.

[0130] To test the ability of the overshoes to be mounted onto an athletic cleated boot, to maintain their position during sport play and to prevent a build-up of mud and debris during use a selection of the elastic materials were used to create overshoes which were then mounted on a cleated football boot. In each case a single material was used for both the upper and lower portions of the overshoe. The overshoes were formed by laser cutting each fabric resulting in any raw edges being sealed so as to prevent fraying during use. A trim (22) formed of the same material was used to edge the overshoe opening. Apertures were cut in the soles of the overshoe to accommodate the cleats. The cleats present on the footwear article were triangular with lengths of 10mm. Correspondingly shaped apertures were cut in each overshoe.

[0131] Prior to mounting each over shoe was weighted. The mounted overshoes were then worn for a period of 15 minutes on a muddy football ball pitch, removed and weighted along with any mud and debris that fell from the overshoes during removal or could be subsequently dislodged from the football boot. As shown in Figure 17, low levels of stretch in at least 2 axes (white neoprene) resulted in an unworkable device. It was found that, to produce an overshoe from such a material required large apertures and openings relative to the sized of the cleats and footwear article, such that the overshoe dislodged from the footwear during use and no data could be obtained.

[0132] Both the OSC and Blue Scuba neoprenes could be formed into products which could be mounted with 7.5mm triangular apertures, compared to 10mm triangular cleats. However, despite the blue scuba having a reduced level of stretch, use of thinner fabric was found to provide a weaker grip against the cleat. As a result there was a significant ingress of mud and debris under the overshoe about the cleats. This is shown by the increased total mass, and reduced the height differential of the cleat relative to the sole surface, limiting the effectiveness of the cleats to provide grip. However, mud and debris was still limited to the vicinity of the cleats, contrary to the absence of an overshoe as depicted in Figure 14.

[0133] The decreased elasticity of the KBT fabric required the apertures to be 1.5 mm larger than the OSC and blue scuba apertures. Thus, triangular apertures with lengths on 8.5mm were required to mount the KBT overshow, compared to 7mm for the OSC and blue scuba. Despite this, the 2mm thickness fabrics were found to provide better cleat grip, as shown by both the OSC and KBT scuba. Each of these materials was able to dislodge the majority of the conventional mud and debris. The most effective of these two materials was the OSC fabric which has the same level of stretch measured in the raw edge to raw edge axis, but increased stretch salvage to salvage and on the bias. Thus, the increased stretch is shown to provide enhanced flexibility for dislodging dirt and debris while maintaining grip.

[0134] Further tests were conducted on the OST and KBT overshoes as set out in Figure 18. In this cases shoes according to each design were worn for an entire warm up period and 2 hour game of football. Here is was found that while some further mud and debris build-up occurred over time for the less elastic KBT shoe, the elasticity of the OSC sole maintained its ability to dislodge mud and debris during repeated ground impacts, resulting in and overall reduction in the about of mud and debris.

[0135] As used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or the phrase “in an embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0136] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0137] In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of the invention. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0138] The use of the term “about” in relation to a numerical value shall be understood as encompassing any value which would round to the stated numerical value when rounded to the last significant figure.

[0139] In view of the foregoing description, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention. For example, although an embodiment has been described with reference to a particular flexible, elastic materials, such as neoprene, alternative materials may be used. This includes but is not limited to lycra, neoprene, jersey, elastane, spandex, nylon, and combinations thereof and well as materials comprising one or more such materials.

[0140] The scope of the present disclosure includes any novel feature or combination of features disclosed therein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof irrespective of whether or not it relates to the claimed invention or mitigate against any or all of the problems addressed by the present invention. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features during prosecution of this application or of any such further application derived therefrom. In particular, with reference to the appended claims, features from dependent claims may be combined with those of the independent claims and features from respective independent claims may be combined in any appropriate manner and not merely in specific combinations enumerated in the claims.

[0141] Clauses

[0142] 1. A removable overshoe for footwear, comprising: a removable cover comprising a sole portion and an upper portion; wherein said sole portion is configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and the sole portion comprises one or more apertures; wherein said sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material surrounding each of the one or more apertures; wherein upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening; wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity for receiving an article of footwear.

[0143] 2. The removable overshoe of clause 1 wherein the expandable elastic opening is configured to enable the overshoe to be removably mounted on a footwear article, and wherein the elastic upper portion is configured to grip the footwear article in use.

[0144] 3. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause wherein the sole portion, is formed of a flexible, elastic material configured to grip one or more protrusions on the sole of a footwear article about each the one or more apertures.

[0145] 4. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause wherein the upper portion, the sole portion or both the upper and sole portions comprise at least one of a waterproof or fray resistant material.

[0146] 5. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause wherein the upper portion, the sole portion or both the upper and sole portion comprise neoprene. 6. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause wherein the thickness of the upper portion is between 0.5 mm and 5 mm thick.

[0147] 7. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause wherein the thickness of the sole portion is between 0.5 mm and 3 mm thick.

[0148] 8. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause, wherein the shapes of the apertures are selected from one or more of the group comprising: circular, oblong, rectangular, fin- shaped, triangular and quadrilateral, optionally wherein the cross-section of the aperture is tapered.

[0149] 9. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause, wherein the sole portion comprises two or more apertures, preferably between 3 and 9 apertures, and particularly preferably 6 apertures.

[0150] 10. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause, wherein the upper portion comprises a padding material.

[0151] 11. The removable overshoe of any preceding clause, wherein the upper portion and sole portion each comprise at least one of a different material or a different thickness of material.

[0152] 12. A kit comprising one or more removable overshoes and an aperture forming device; wherein the one or more removable overshoes comprises a sole portion and an upper portion; wherein at least a part of the sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material, and the sole portion is configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and the sole portion; wherein upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening; wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity; and wherein the aperture forming device comprises a punch die having the shape of the aperture to be formed and a base plate, wherein the punch die and base plate are pivotably articulated to form a puncture device.

[0153] 13. The kit according to clause 12 wherein the kit comprises two removable overshoes; wherein the overshoes are configured: i) for a left foot and a right foot respectively; or ii) where the two overshoes are suitable for use on either foot.

[0154] 14. The kit according to clause 12 or 13 wherein the kit comprises two or more the punch dies having different shaped or sized cutting edges.

[0155] 15. The kit according to any one of clauses 12-14, wherein at least one punch die is provided.

[0156] 16. The kit according to any one of clauses 12-15, wherein the punch die comprises more than one cutting edge suitable to produce an aperture in the sole of the one or more overshoes.

[0157] 17. The kit according to any one of clauses 12-16, wherein one or more punch die is provided in which at least one of the size or shape of the cutting edge may be varied by the user.

[0158] 18. The kit according to any one of clauses 12-17, wherein the punch die provides a template for creating multiple apertures.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED:

1. A removable overshoe for cleated footwear configured for use on sports pitches or grass, comprising: a removable cover comprising a sole portion and an upper portion; wherein said sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material, configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and comprising one or more apertures each configured to grip a cleat; wherein upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening; wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity for receiving an article of footwear; and wherein the expandable elastic opening is configured to enable the overshoe to be removably mounted on cleated footwear article without use of a releasable fastener.

2. The removable overshoe according to claim 1 wherein the apertures are configured to have a cross-sectional area at rest which is less than or equal to 75% of the cross-sectional area of the footwear cleat.

3. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim wherein at least one of the upper portion and sole portion comprises a fabric having stretch values of stretchB s 180% of the unstretched length, stretchss s 180% of the unstretched length, and / or (stretchRR) > 133% of the unstretched length, optionally, wherein at least two of these conditions are met, or all three of these conditions are met.

4. The removable overshoe according to claim 3 wherein at least one of the upper portion and sole portion comprise a fabric having a stretch value of 180% < stretchB s 240% of the unstretched length, 180% < stretchss s 240% of the unstretched length, and / or 133% < (stretchRR) > 178% of the unstretched length optionally, wherein at least two of these conditions are met, or all three of these conditions are met.

5. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim wherein the upper portion, the sole portion or both the upper and sole portions comprise at least one of a waterproof or fray resistant material.

6. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim wherein the upper portion, the sole portion or both the upper and sole portion comprise neoprene, optionally wherein the neoprene comprises 90% < polyester > 96% and 4% < spandex > 10%.

7. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim wherein the thickness of the upper portion is between 0.5 mm and 5 mm thick.

8. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim wherein the thickness of the sole portion is between 0.5 mm and 3 mm thick, optionally wherein the thickness of the sole portion is from 2mm to 3mm thick.

9. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim, wherein the shapes of the apertures are selected from one or more of the group comprising: circular, oblong, rectangular, fin-shaped, triangular and quadrilateral, optionally wherein the cross-section of the aperture is tapered.

10. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim, wherein the sole portion comprises two or more apertures, preferably between 3 and 9 apertures, and particularly preferably 6 apertures.11 . The removable overshoe of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion comprises a padding material.

12. The removable overshoe of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion and sole portion each comprise at least one of a different material or a different thickness of material.

13. A kit comprising one or more removable overshoes and an aperture forming device; wherein the one or more removable overshoes comprises a sole portion and an upper portion; wherein at least a part of the sole portion comprises a flexible, elastic material, and the sole portion is configured to extend from a toe-end to a heel of a footwear article and the sole portion; wherein upper portion is formed of a flexible, elastic material and comprises an expandable elastic opening; wherein said upper portion is affixed to the sole portion about the entire periphery of the sole portion, and is configured to envelop at least a portion of a toe-end, top surface, heel and two side surfaces of a footwear article to form an expandable cavity; andwherein the aperture forming device comprises a punch die having the shape of the aperture to be formed and a base plate, wherein the punch die and base plate are pivotably articulated to form a puncture device.

14. The kit according to claim 13 wherein the kit comprises two removable overshoes; wherein the overshoes are configured: i) for a left foot and a right foot respectively; or ii) where the two overshoes are suitable for use on either foot.

15. The kit according to claim 13 or 14 wherein the kit comprises two or more the punch dies having different shaped or sized cutting edges.

16. The kit according to any one of claims 13-15, wherein at least one punch die is provided.

17. The kit according to any one of claims 13-16, wherein the punch die comprises more than one cutting edge suitable to produce an aperture in the sole of the one or more overshoes.

18. The kit according to any one of claims 13-17, wherein one or more punch die is provided in which at least one of the size or shape of the cutting edge may be varied by the user.

19. The kit according to any one of claims 13-18, wherein the punch die provides a template for creating multiple apertures.

Images