Ski boot closure systems and components thereof

Abstract

An exemplary guide for routing or directing a tension member about an article as described herein includes a guide body that is attachable to the article and a cover that is removably couplable with the guide body. The guide body includes a front end, a rear end, opposing sides, and a channel that is formed in the guide body. The channel is shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable into the channel.The cover is coupled with the guide body so that the cover is positioned atop the guide body to conceal at least a portion of the guide body from external view.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 633,466, filed Apr. 12, 2024, entitled “Ski Boot Closure Systems and Components Thereof”, and to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 719,295, filed Nov. 12, 2024, entitled“Ski Boot Closure Systems and Components Thereof”, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference, for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] Articles, such as shoes, boots, and other footwear, employ various mechanism that are designed to close and tighten the article. Some articles include materials that are relatively rigid and somewhat difficult to close and tighten. For example, ski boots, such as alpine ski boots, typically have exterior shells that are made of rigid materials, such as various polymers. The exterior shells are often difficult to close about a wearer's leg and foot due to the rigid materials that are employed. It is also often difficult to make the ski boot comfortable to wear due to the rigid materials that are employed. A proper balance between comfort and fit is desired in ski boots but may be difficult to achieve due the use of rigid materials and other design constraints. Conventional closure devices that are employed to close ski boots often tighten the ski boot in relatively large increments, which may add a degree of complexity in achieving a proper balance between fit and comfort. Other articles, such as shoes, may include relatively soft materials that are significantly easier to close. Improved devices and mechanisms for closing various articles are desired.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0003] The embodiments described herein relate to articles of footwear, such as ski boots, snowboard boots, work boots, low or high cut shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, and the like. The article of footwear includes a tensioning mechanism, a tension member, and at least one guide member that is configured to route or direct the tension member along a path about the article of footwear. The arrangement of these components, and in particular the routing of the tension member, may provide an improved fit and comfort of the article of footwear about the wearer's foot. The embodiments described herein may be particularly suited for application to ski boot and / or components that may be employed on articles, such as ski boots.

[0004] According to one aspect, a guide for routing or directing a tension member about an article includes a guide body having a front end, a rear end, opposing sides, and a channel that is formed in the guide body. The channel is shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable through the channel. The guide also includes an attachment arm that is separate from the guide body. The attachment arm includes a distal end that is attachable to the article and a proximal end that is coupled with the guide body to attach the guide body to the article. The guide may also include a cover that is removably couplable with the guide body and attachment arm such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body and attachment arm to conceal at least a portion of the guide body and attachment arm from external view.

[0005] According to another aspect, a guide for routing or directing a tension member about an article includes a guide body that is attachable to the article and a cover that is removably couplable with the guide body. The guide body includes a front end, a rear end, opposing sides, and a channel formed in the guide body. The channel is shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable into the channel. The cover is removably couplable with the guide body such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body to conceal at least a portion of the guide body from external view. The guide may also include an attachment arm that is separate from the guide body. The attachment arm includes a distal end that is attachable to the article and a proximal end that is coupled with the guide body to attach the guide body to the article.

[0006] According to another aspect, a method of attaching a guide to an article includes attaching an attachment arm to the article, in which the attachment arm includes a distal end that is attached to the article and a proximal end that is opposite the distal end. The method also includes attaching a guide body to the proximal end of the attachment arm to attach the guide body to the article. The guide body has a front end, a rear end, opposing sides, and a channel that is formed in the guide body. The channel is shaped and sized so that a tension member is insertable through the channel.

[0007] According to another aspect, a ski boot having a front, a rear, a first side, and a second side includes a shell, a cuff, and a tongue. The cuff is coupled with the shell and is positioned on a rear portion of the ski boot. The tongue is separate from the cuff and shell. The tongue is coupled with the shell and is positioned on a front portion of the ski boot so that the tongue is at least partially separated from the cuff by an opening or gap positioned on the first side of the ski boot. The ski boot also includes a tensioning mechanism that is coupled with the cuff or tongue and a tension member that is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. The ski boot further includes at least one guide member that is coupled with the cuff or tongue and that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path that traverses the opening or gap between the cuff and tongue. The cuff and tongue are configured such that tensioning of the tension member via the tensioning mechanism causes the cuff and tongue to be pulled or pivoted toward one another in a clam shell like manner.

[0008] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell, and a tongue that is coupled with the shell and that is positioned on a front portion of the ski boot. The ski boot also includes a tensioning mechanism that is coupled with the cuff or tongue and a tension member that is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. The ski boot further includes at least one guide member that is coupled with the cuff or tongue and that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member between the cuff and tongue. The cuff and tongue are configured such that tensioning of the tension member pulls or pivots the cuff and tongue toward one another.

[0009] According to another aspect, a method of manufacturing a ski boot includes providing a shell and coupling a cuff with the shell so that the cuff is positioned on a rear portion of the ski boot. The method also includes coupling a tongue with the shell so that the tongue is positioned on a front portion of the ski boot and coupling a tensioning mechanism with the cuff or tongue. The method further includes operably coupling a tension member with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member and coupling at least one guide member with the cuff or tongue. The method additionally includes operably coupling the at least one guide with the tension member to route or direct the tension member between the cuff and tongue. The cuff and tongue are configured such that tensioning of the tension member pulls or pivots the cuff and tongue toward one another.

[0010] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell at a pivot point, a first tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a first tension member operably coupled with the first tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the first tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the first tension member, and a first guide member coupled with the cuff and operably coupled with the first tension member to route or direct the first tension member along a path about the cuff. The ski boot also includes a second tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a second tension member operably coupled with the second tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the second tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the second tension member, and a second guide member coupled with the shell and operably coupled with the second tension member to route or direct the second tension member along a path about the shell. Tensioning the first tension member effects tightening of the cuff and tensioning of the second tension member effects tightening of the shell.

[0011] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell, a tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a plurality of guide members that are coupled with the cuff and operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the cuff. One the guide members is a guide that is releasably attached to the cuff and that is positioned in an upper portion of the path of the tension member. In some embodiments, the ski boot also additionally includes an additional tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, an additional tension member operably coupled with the additional tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the additional tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the additional tension member, and an additional plurality of guides coupled with the shell and operably coupled with the additional tension member to route or direct the additional tension member along a path about the shell.

[0012] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell at a pivot point, a base member coupled with the cuff at or near the pivot point, a tensioning mechanism, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a guide member that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the ski boot. The tensioning mechanism or the guide member is positioned on the base member and is able to rotate or pivot about the shell.

[0013] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a rigid shell, a rigid cuff coupled with the rigid shell, a flexible material attached to the rigid shell or rigid cuff, a tensioning mechanism, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a guide member that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the ski boot. The guide member is positioned on the flexible material to attach the guide member to the ski boot. The flexible material allows the guide member to move, slide, or pivot relative to the rigid shell or rigid cuff as the tension member is tensioned via the tensioning mechanism.

[0014] According to another aspect, a ski boot includes a rigid shell, a rigid cuff coupled with the rigid shell, a flexible material attached to the rigid shell or rigid cuff, a tensioning mechanism, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a guide member that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the ski boot. The guide member or tensioning mechanism is positioned on the flexible material to attach the guide member or tensioning mechanism to the ski boot. The flexible material allows the guide member or tensioning mechanism to move, slide, or pivot relative to the rigid shell or rigid cuff as the tension member is tensioned.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present invention is described in conjunction with the appended figures:

[0016] FIGS. 1-10 illustrate various lace path configurations that may be employed to close and tighten a ski boot's lower shell about the wearer's foot.

[0017] FIGS. 11A-18B illustrate lacing system configurations that are designed for use in cabrio type ski boots.

[0018] FIGS. 19A-E illustrate various guides that may be employed with the lacing systems for various applications.

[0019] FIGS. 20A-D illustrate various guides that may be employed with the lacing systems for ski boot applications.

[0020] FIGS. 21A-C illustrate a cover or protector that can help minimize accidental opening of the reel based closure device and / or ejection or dislodgement of the reel based closure device from its base member.

[0021] FIGS. 22A-23F illustrate a decorative guide that may be employed with the lacing systems for applications.

[0022] FIGS. 24A-25C illustrate guides that may be used with the decorative guide of FIGS. 22a-23F.

[0023] In the appended figures, similar components and / or features may have the same numerical reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components and / or features. If only the first numerical reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and / or features having the same first numerical reference label irrespective of the letter suffix.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The embodiments herein describe novel lacing systems that are particularly useful for ski boot and other articles of footwear. The lacing systems may be particularly suited to close articles of footwear that include or employ rigid or semi-rigid components, such as outer shells or materials that are formed of plastic, metal, or other rigid materials. The lacing systems may be useful to close and tighten these components about a wearer's foot. While the application describes the lacing systems being used for ski boots, it should be readily understood that the lacing systems may be similarly applicable to other articles of footwear, such as boots, snowboard boots, work boots, low or high cut shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, and the like. For ease in describing the various embodiments, the description will refer to the lacing systems being used on ski boots.

[0025] The lacing system includes a tightening mechanism and a lace or tension member. The tension member is a cord, rope, or other structure that is designed to be tensioned to close and tighten the ski boot. The tightening mechanism is typically a reel based closure device that is configured to tension the tension member via operation of the reel based closure device. The tension member is guided about the ski boot via one or more guide members, which may be rigid components that are made of plastic or other materials, or which may be flexible and soft components that are made of fabric materials.

[0026] The reel based device includes a knob or dial that may be grasped and rotated by the wearer. The knob or dial is commonly coupled with a spool around which the tension member is wound in response to rotation of the knob or dial in a tightening direction. Rotation of the tension member around the spool tensions the tension member, which tightens the ski boot about the wearer's foot by constricting the shell and any internal components (i.e., a liner, etc.) about the wearer's foot. Exemplary reel based devices are further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 297,047 filed Jun. 5, 2017, and entitled “Integrated Closure Device Components and Methods”, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 139,670 filed Dec. 31, 2020, and entitled “Tightening Device for Tightening an Article”, and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18 / 412,054 filed Jan. 12, 2024, and entitled “Reel Based Closure Device”, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0027] The reel based device replaces traditional buckles and / or other tightening systems that are currently used on ski boots to tighten the ski boot about the wearer's foot. Reel based devices are significantly easier to operate than traditional buckles and / or other tightening systems. As such, wearer's may greatly prefer to use the reel based devices in tightening a ski boot. In addition, reel based devices offer incremental degrees of tightening and loosening of the ski boot in comparison with traditional buckles and / or other tightening systems. For example, traditional buckles and / or other tightening systems often include a limited number of tightening segments (e.g., teeth, steps, racks, and the like) that are used in tightening the ski boot. For example, traditional buckles often employ 5 to 10 teeth on a rack within which an engagement pin is positioned to tighten the ski boot. The engagement pin is moved proximally or distally about the rack and positioned within a proximal or distal tooth in order to increase or decrease the tightness of the ski boot about the foot. The limited number of tightening segments (e.g., teeth) results in the ski boot being tightened or loosened by greater segments or degrees than may be necessary and thus, it may be difficult to achieve a desired and comfortable fit.

[0028] In contrast, reel based devices are capable of tightening and / or loosening the ski boot by significantly smaller increments, segments, amounts, or degrees. For example, if a minor increase in tightness is desired, the knob of the reel based device may be rotated by a quarter turn or even an eighth of a turn to slightly increase the tension in the tension member. The slight increase in the tension member's tension normally results in a slight increase in the tightness or constriction of the ski boot about the wearer's foot. This incremental adjustment of the ski boot's tightness allows a desired and comfortable fit of the ski boot about the foot to be more easily achieved. In addition, reel based devices offer immediate tightening and / or loosening rather than requiring a complete loosening and then readjustment as with traditional buckles or other tightening systems.

[0029] The tension member is typically routed about an opening of the ski boot. For example, in ski boots, the lower shell is often formed with a pair of panels or flaps (e.g., a medial flap and a lateral flap) in which one of the flaps (e.g., the medial flap) overlaps the other flap (e.g., the lateral flap). The overlapping flaps form a seam. The tension member is commonly routed between opposing sides of the ski boot's lower shell so that the tension member crosses the seam one or more times. In this manner, a portion of the tension member is positioned on a first side of the seam while another portion of the tension member is positioned on a second side of the seam. Tensioning of the tension member causes the overlapping flaps to slide laterally relative to one another, which closes the lower shell about the wearer's foot.

[0030] The tension member is guided between the opposing sides of the ski boot via guides that are attached to the lower shell. The tension member forms a path about the lower shell as it is guided via the plurality of guides. The configuration and / or orientation of the tension member path may aid in applying a desired tension force to the lower shell. Accordingly, the tension member path may be shaped to achieve a desired fit of the ski boot about the wearer's foot. FIGS. 1-10 illustrate various lace path configurations that may be employed to close and tighten a ski boot's lower shell about the wearer's foot.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1 illustrated is a ski boot 100 that includes a lower shell 102 and upper cuff 103 that is coupled with the lower shell as is known in the art. The ski boot 100 of FIG. 1 is representative of all the ski boots illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, which each have a lower shell 102 and upper cuff 103. A lacing system is attached to the upper cuff 103. The lacing system includes, or consists of, a reel based device 104, a tension member 108, and one or more guides 106a-c. The lacing system is configured and oriented to tighten the upper cuff 103 about a wearer's leg. The increased tightness of the ski boot 100 about the wearer's leg can increase skiing confidence and improve power transfer between the wearer and ski boot 100.

[0032] The increased tension of the ski boot 100 about the wearer's leg is achieved, in part, by the novel routing of the tension member 108 about the upper cuff 103. The reel based device 104 is attached to a tension member 108 in a manner that allows the tension member to be tightened by an operation of the reel based device 104, and more specifically a rotation of a knob of the reel based device 104 in a tightening direction. The tension member 108 is coupled with guides 106a-b are arranged on the upper cuff 103 to route or direct the tension member 108 along a path about the upper cuff 103. The guides may include one or more guides 106a that are permanently attached to the upper cuff 103 (hereinafter fixed guide(s) 106a) and / or may include one or more guides 106b that include a guide body that is releasably attached with a corresponding guide base that is affixed to the ski boot 100 (hereinafter releasable guide(s) 106b). Exemplary guides that may be used in the embodiments herein are further described in the '670 application that is incorporated by reference herein.

[0033] Although not required, it is advantageous to employ at least one releasable guide 106b to allow the wearer to grasp and remove the guide body from the guide base and thereby quickly release tension in the tension member in donning and doffing the ski boot 1100. In a specific embodiment, the releasable guide 106b may be positioned closest to an upper end of the upper cuff 103 so that a maximum amount of tension is released in the tension member 108 near an opening of the ski boot 100. This may greatly aid the wearer in donning and doffing the ski boot. In addition, the ski boot 100 may include a single releasable guide 106b so as to minimize any difficulty or confusion in reattaching the guide body with the correct guide base. In some instances, however, multiple releasable guides 106b may be employed.

[0034] To anchor the fixed guide 106a and / or the guide base of the releasable guide 106b with the upper cuff, a mechanical fastener, such as a rivet, bolt, or screw, could be employed or the guide could be molded directly into the material of the upper cuff. The releasable guide 106b may include a tab or grip surface that enables the wearer to easily grasp the guide body and pull the guide body away from the guide base and / or to align the guide body with the guide base during reattachment of the two components.

[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the reel based device 104 is positioned roughly centrally between the guides 106a-b so that the tension member 108 exits the reel based device 104 and immediately traverse to a fixed guide 106a positioned on a lower strap or panel and to a releasable guide 106b positioned on an upper strap or panel. The tension member is routed therefrom to a pair of fixed guides 106a that are positioned on the upper cuff 103 above and below the reel based device 104. The only difference between the two figures of FIG. 1 is that in one instance, the tension member 108 is routed under the upper cuff 103 immediately in front of the reel based device 104 (i.e., left hand image) while in the other instance, the tension member 108 is routed under the upper cuff 103 in back of the reel based device 104.

[0036] The tension member 108 is slidably positioned within the guides 106a-b so that as the tension member 108 is tensioned, via the reel based device 104, the tension member 108 slides within a channel of the respective guides 106a-b. the tension member 108 may be routed under the upper cuff 103 via tubing that is positioned under the upper cuff 103 and / or via a channel that is formed in the upper cuff 103. When the tension member 108 is routed behind the reel based device 104, the reel based device 104 is essentially enclosed, or surrounded, by the tension member 108.

[0037] The ski boot 100 may also include a strap 112 that is positioned on the upper end of the upper cuff 103 near the opening. The strap 112 may wrap circumferentially around the upper end of the upper cuff 103 and may be used to provide a gross closure of the upper cuff 103 about the wearer's leg and / or may provide a secondary closure of the upper cuff 103 as a compliment to the reel based device 104. The strap 112 may employ hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, magnets, and the like to ensure that the strap 112 remains closed and tightened about the wearer's leg. In some instances, the strap 112 may be omitted from the ski boot. Although not illustrated, each of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-10 may omit the strap 112.

[0038] For brevity in describing the other embodiments, the description of the other embodiments will focus mainly on the arrangement or positioning of the reel based device 104, guides 106a-c, and tension member 108 about the ski boot. However, the description of FIG. 1, or of any other figure where one or more components of the ski boot appear visually similar, is equally applicable to all other figures. For example, although not described in the remaining figures, the ski boot 100 may include a strap 112 as described herein.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 2A-B, illustrated is another configuration of a ski boot lacing system. In the illustrated embodiment, the reel based device 104 is positioned centrally about the ski boot on a panel that wraps over the upper cuff 103. Positioning the reel based device 104 on the panel may provide easy access to the wearer. The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based device 104 in a V-shaped configuration. Specifically, opposing ends of the tension member 108 are routed from the reel based device 104 to a pair of guides 106a-b that are positioned directly on the upper cuff 103. The guides 106a-b are arranged so that routing of the tension member 108 from the reel based device 104 causes the tension member 108 to form or define the V-shape. The tension member is routed from the pair of guides 106a-b to a central guide 106a that is positioned on a distal end of the panel. The V-shaped configuration of the tension member 108 causes the reel based closure device 104 and tension member 108 to tension the ski boot 100 in a block and tackle like fashion.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the releasable guide 106b is positioned near the upper end of the upper cuff 103, which aids in donning and doffing of the ski boot 100 as described herein. In some embodiments, the central guide may also be a releasable guide or the pair of guides may both be fixed guides while the central guide is a releasable guide. The use of a releasable guide as the central guide would enable the panel to be more fully opened, which may aid in donning and doffing of the ski boot. FIG. 2B differs from FIG. 2A in that the central guide is attached to a flexible material 109 that is in turn attached to or coupled with the panel. The flexible material 109 may be an elastic material, a woven fabric or strip, a plastic material with precut deflection points / areas, and the like. The flexible material 109 may enhance wrapping of the panel about the upper cuff 103 in response to tensioning of the tension member 108.

[0041] Although illustrated as being attached to a guide, in some embodiments the reel based closure device 104 may be positioned on the flexible material 109. Similarly, while the flexible material 109 is shown being positioned on the upper cuff and used to tension the upper cuff, the flexible material 109 may be repositioned on the shell and / or an additional flexible material 109 may be used on the shell to close and tighten the shell. In general, the ski boot includes a rigid shell, a rigid cuff coupled with the rigid shell, a flexible material attached to the rigid shell or rigid cuff, a tensioning mechanism, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a guide member that is operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the ski boot. The guide member or tensioning mechanism is positioned on the flexible material to attach the guide member or tensioning mechanism to the ski boot. The flexible material allows the guide member or tensioning mechanism to move, slide, or pivot relative to the rigid shell or rigid cuff as the tension member is tensioned.

[0042] In a specific embodiment, the flexible material is attached to the rigid cuff such that the guide member or tensioning mechanism is able to move, slide, or pivot about the rigid cuff as the tension member is tensioned. In some instances, the flexible material is a strip of material having a longitudinal length and lateral width and the longitudinal length is greater than the lateral width. The flexible material may be formed of an elastic material, a woven fabric or strip, or a plastic material with precut deflection portions. In a specific embodiment, the flexible material is attached to a strap or panel that is positioned around at least a portion of the rigid cuff. Alternatively or additionally, the flexible material is positioned under a strap or panel that is positioned around at least a portion of the rigid cuff. Alternatively or additionally, the flexible material is positioned under or internally of the rigid cuff. The flexible material may be positioned vertically between two guide members.

[0043] FIGS. 3A-B illustrate other configurations of a ski boot lacing system. Referring to FIG. 3A, the reel based device 104 is positioned on the upper cuff 103 near the strap 112. The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based device 104 in a V-shaped configuration with one end or segment of the tension member 108 being routed from the reel based device 104 to an upper fixed guide 106a and the other end or segment of the tension member 108 being routed to a lower fixed guide 106a. The tension member 108 forms or defines a V-shape due to this routing of the tension member 108. The upper and lower fixed guides are each positioned on the distal end of independent straps or panels 110.

[0044] The tension member 108 is routed from the upper and lower fixed guides to fixed guides that are directly attached to the upper cuff 103. The tension member is routed from these guides to a releasable guide 106b that is positioned on a central strap or panel 110. The central strap or panel 110 is independent from the straps or panels of the upper and lower fixed guides. The use of independent straps or panels for these guides may enable the upper cuff 103 to better conform to unique shapes and sizes of the wearer's legs. For example, the independent straps or panels may move or flex to some degree about the wearer's leg. In some instances, the upper strap or panel 110 may be used in place of the strap 112 so that the strap may be omitted from the ski boot. In other instances, the upper strap or panel may include a releasable guide in addition to, or as an alternative to, the releasable guide that is positioned on the central strap or panel.

[0045] FIG. 3B illustrates a similar arrangement to FIG. 3A except that the position of the reel based closure device 104 is reversed. Specifically, the reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the central strap or panel while the releasable guide 106b is positioned on the upper cuff 103. Four fixed guides are still used in the ski boot of FIG. 3B with two fixed guides positioned on the upper and lower straps or panels and with two fixed guides attached to the upper cuff 103. In some instances, the reel based closure device 104 may be positioned on the upper strap or panel or the lower strap or panel as desired. Similarly, the releasable guide 106b may be positioned closer to the opening of the ski boot if desired. The releasable guide 106b may be positioned distally of the pair of fixed guides 106a attached to the upper cuff 103, so that the releasable guide 106b is positioned on or near a rear most portion of the ski boot.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 4A-B, illustrated are other arrangements of a lacing system about a ski boot. The arrangement of the reel based closure device 104, tension member 108, and guides 106a-b are the same for FIGS. 4A-B. The difference between the two embodiments is in the position of a panel that is attached to the upper cuff 103. Specifically, in both embodiments, the reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the left hand side of the tension member's lace path. The reel based closure device 104 is also positioned centrally between fixed guides 106a that are positioned on the left hand side of the lace path vertically above and below the reel based closure device 104.

[0047] The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based closure device 104 to a pair of fixed guides 106a that are positioned on the right hand side of the lace path. The tension member is routed from these guides to the pair of fixed guides 106a positioned above and below the reel based closure device 104 on the left hand side of the lace path. The tension member 108 is routed from these guides to a releasable guide 106b that is positioned centrally on the right hand side of the lace path, although in other instances the releasable guide 106b may be repositioned at or toward the upper end of the lace path.

[0048] In FIG. 4A, the reel based closure device 104 and fixed guides 106a on the left hand side of the lace path are attached to ends of a panel 114 that is coupled with the upper cuff 103 or formed into the upper cuff 103. The fixed guides 106a and releasable guide 106b on the right hand side of the lace path are attached to a flap or panel that is wrapped (hereinafter wrapping panel) around a tongue or central portion of the upper cuff 103. This arrangement of the panel 114, reel based closure device 104, and guides 106a-b results in the panel 114 being slid over the wrapping panel as the tension member 108 is tensioned. In FIG. 4B, the reel based closure device 104 and fixed guides 106a on the left hand side of the lace path are attached to the panel 114 while the lowermost fixed guide 106a on the right hand side of the lace path is positioned on a strap or panel 115 that extends over the upper cuff's tongue. Stated differently, the difference between FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B is in the use of the strap or panel 115 that the lowermost guide is attached to. The strap or panel 115 allows the lower most guide to move or slide relative to the releasable guide 106b, which may improve the fit of the ski boot about a wearer's foot. In some instances, the releasable guide 106b may also be positioned on an independent strap or panel (not shown).

[0049] Referring to FIG. 5, the lacing system configuration employs a reel based closure device 104 that is positioned on a panel 116 that extends over the tongue or central portion of the upper cuff 103. The panel 116 is anchored on an opposite side of the ski boot via one or more fastening members, 117 and 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 116 is attached using a lower fastening member 118 and an upper fastening member 117. The fastening members, 117 and 118, may be positioned within slots or grooves to allow the panel 116 to move, slide or shift to some degree about the upper cuff 103. In some instances, a single fastening member (not shown) may be employed to allow the panel 116 to pivot or rotate to some degree about the upper cuff 103. The panel 116 wraps around the front of the upper cuff 103 and may improve the fit of the upper cuff 103 about the wearer's leg. The panel 116 may be made of a relatively rigid plastic material for improved stability or may be made of a more flexible material (e.g., softer plastic and / or woven fabric) for improved wrapping about the front of the ski boot.

[0050] The reel based closure device 104 is attached to a distal end of the panel 116. The panel may narrow or taper from the fastening members, 117 and 118, to the reel based closure device 104. A fixed guide 106a is also positioned on the right hand side of the lace path. The fixed guide 106a may be positioned on a strap or panel that is independent of the panel 116 of the reel based closure device 104. In some instances, the fixed guide 106a may be replaced with a releasable guide 106b. The left hand side of the lace path includes a releasable guide 106b, which is positioned at or near the top of the lace path, and a fixed guide 106a that is positioned below the releasable guide 106b. In some instances, the ski boot may include additional fixed and / or releasable guides as desired.

[0051] FIGS. 6A-B illustrate embodiments that employ flexible panels or straps for improved fit. The arrangement of the reel based closure device 104, tension member 108, and guides 106a-b is roughly the same for FIGS. 6A-B. In particular, the reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the left hand side of the tension member's lace path vertically between a pair of fixed guides 106a. The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based closure device 104 to a releasable guide 106b that is positioned on the right hand side of the lace path at an upper end of the lace path. The tension member 108 is also routed from the reel based closure device 104 to a fixed guided positioned on the right hand side near at a lower end of the lace path. The releasable guide 106b and fixed guide 106a are positioned on distal ends of independent straps or panels 119.

[0052] The tension member 108 is routed from these right hand guides, 106a-b, to the pair of fixed guides 106a positioned vertically above and below the reel based closure device 104. The tension member 108 is routed from these guides to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on an external strap 118a that is positioned underneath and between the independent straps or panels 119 of the fixed and releasable guides, 106a-b. The external strap 118a is made of a flexible material, such as a thinner plastic, precut plastic, woven fabric, and the like. The flexible external strap 118a is able to wrap about the upper cuff 103 to a greater degree than the independent straps or panels 119.

[0053] FIG. 6B illustrates a similar embodiment except that the external strap is replaced with an internal strap 118b. The internal strap 118b is positioned under the upper cuff 103. A portion or segment of the tension member 108 that is coupled with the internal strap 118b is routed under the upper cuff 103. In particular, the tension member 108 is routed under the upper cuff 103 from one of the left hand guides to the internal strap 118b and is routed therefrom underneath the upper cuff 103 to the other left hand guide. In some instances, the guide that is attached to the distal end of the internal strap 118b may be substantially thinner than the fixed guides 106a to prevent the distal end of the internal strap 118b from exerting undesired pressure on the wearer's leg. The internal strap 118b may be positioned atop a liner of the ski boot and may press the liner against the wearer's leg, which may improve the fit and / or comfort of wearing the ski boot.

[0054] FIGS. 7-10 illustrate embodiments of lacing systems that are operable to tension both the upper cuff 103 and the lower shell 102 of the ski boot 100. In FIG. 7, a single reel based closure device is used to simultaneously tighten both the upper cuff and lower shell while multiple reel based closure devices are employed in the embodiments of FIGS. 8-10. FIG. 7 illustrates the reel based closure device 104 attached to the upper cuff 103 at or near a pivot connection point of the upper cuff 103 and lower shell 102. The reel based closure device 104 is attached to a base member 120 that is in turn coupled with the upper cuff 103 at or near the pivot connection point. Attachment of the reel based closure device 104 to the base member 120 in this manner enables the reel based closure device 104 and base member 120 to pivot with the upper cuff 103 relative to the lower shell 102. Connection of the reel based closure device 104 to the pivot connection point also positions the reel based closure device 104 roughly midway, or at a junction, between the upper cuff 103 and lower shell 102.

[0055] The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based closure device 104 to a plurality of guides that are positioned along the upper cuff 103 and lower shell. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, a first fixed guide 106a is positioned immediately adjacent to the reel based closure device 104 at or near the junction of the upper cuff and lower shell. A pair of fixed guides 106a are positioned on the lower shell 102 at a bottom end of the lace path while a fixed guide 106a and a releasable guide 106b are positioned on the upper cuff 103 at an upper end of the lace path. The releasable guide 106b may be positioned on a left hand side of the lace path at the upper end to facilitate in donning and doffing the ski boot 100. The fixed guides 106a that are positioned on the upper cuff 103 may be attached to distal ends of a strap or panel 121 that encircles the tongue or central portion of the ski boot 100. The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based closure device 104 to the upper and lower most fixed guides 106a on the right hand side of the lace path. The tension member 108 is routed therefrom to the remaining guides. Due to the roughly central positioning of the reel based closure device 104, tensioning of the reel based closure device 104 causes the upper cuff 103 and lower shell 102 to be simultaneously pulled against the wearer's foot and leg.

[0056] FIG. 8 illustrates a dual reel based closure device system in which the tension member of each system is attached to a linkage panel 122. Specifically, the ski boot 100 includes an upper lacing system that includes a first reel based closure device 104a and a first tension member 108a that is routed or directed along a path about the upper cuff 103 via a plurality of fixed guides 106a and releasable guide(s) 106b. In the illustrated embodiment, a single releasable guide 106b is positioned at the upper end of the upper lacing system's path. The releasable guide 106b may be positioned on a strap or panel that is independent of a strap or panel that a fixed guide 106a is attached to. The first tension member 108a is routed from the first reel based closure device 104a to these guides and is routed therefrom to a pair of fixed guides 106a that are positioned on the left hand side of the lace path vertically above and below the first reel based closure device 104a. The first tension member 108a may be routed under the surface of the upper cuff 103 between these left hand guides. A lower fixed guide 106a of the pair is attached to an upper end of the linkage panel 122. Tensioning of the first reel based closure device 104a causes the upper cuff 103 to constrict about the wearer's leg.

[0057] The ski boot 100 also includes a lower lacing system that includes a second reel based closure device 104b and a second tension member 108b that is routed or directed along a path about the lower shell 102 via a plurality of fixed guides 106a. The second reel based closure device 104b is positioned roughly centrally along the lace path about the lower shell 102, but the second reel based closure device 104b may be positioned elsewhere as desired. The second tension member 108b is routed from the second reel based closure device 104b to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on a flap or panel of the lower shell 102. The second tension member 108b is routed therefrom to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on a bottom end of the linkage panel 122. The second tension member 108b is routed from this guide in a zigzagging arrangement across the lower shell's flap or panel to a terminal guide that is positioned on a bottom end of the lace path. The second tension member 108b of the lower lacing systems has only a single end that is directly coupled with the second reel based closure device 104b, although in some instances, the second tension member 108b may have both ends directly attached to the second reel based closure device 104b. Tensioning of the second tension member 108b causes the lower shell 102 to constrict about the wearer's foot.

[0058] As illustrated, the linkage panel 122 links the separate upper and lower lacing systems and thus, the linkage panel 122 links the upper and lower closure zones of the ski boot 100. The linkage panel 122 is coupled with the upper cuff 103 at or near the pivot connection point of the upper cuff 103. The coupling of the linkage panel 122 may be such that the linkage panel 122 is able to rotate with the upper cuff 103 and / or is able to rotate relative to the upper cuff 103. This relative pivoting or rotation of the linkage panel 122 may be beneficial as movement or flexing of the leg within the ski boot 100 affects a tightness of both the upper cuff 103 and lower shell 102. In this manner, greater comfort and / or hold may be achieved.

[0059] FIG. 9A illustrates a dual lacing system arrangement that is similar to the arrangement of FIG. 8. In particular, the ski boot 100 includes upper and lower lacing systems with the upper lacing system being nearly identical to the upper lacing system of FIG. 8 except that the lower left hand fixed guide 106a is not attached to a linkage panel 122. Rather, this guide is directly attached to the upper cuff 103. The lower lacing system is likewise similar to the lower lacing system of FIG. 8 except that the second reel based closure device 104b is positioned on the upper cuff 103 and the terminal guide is attached to the lower shell 102.

[0060] Positioning the second reel based closure device 104b on the upper cuff 103 may facilitate wearer access to the second reel based closure device 104b and thus, may be convenient for certain applications. In addition, positioning the second reel based closure device 104b on the upper cuff 103 may affect tensioning of the lower shell 102 as the wearer flexes their leg or otherwise moves the upper cuff 103 during use. Specifically, positioning of the second reel based closure device 104b on the upper cuff 103 causes the second reel based closure device 104b to move slightly as the upper cuff 103 moves. Movement of the second reel based closure device 104b increases or decreases tension in the second tension member 108b depending on the movement, which affects the tightness imparted on the lower shell 102 by the second tension member 108b.

[0061] In general, the ski boot of FIG. 9A includes a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell at a pivot point, a first tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a first tension member operably coupled with the first tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the first tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the first tension member, a first guide member coupled with the cuff and operably coupled with the first tension member to route or direct the first tension member along a path about the cuff, a second tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a second tension member operably coupled with the second tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the second tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the second tension member, and a second guide member coupled with the shell and operably coupled with the second tension member to route or direct the second tension member along a path about the shell. Tensioning of the first tension member effects tightening of the cuff and tensioning of the second tension member effects tightening of the shell.

[0062] The second tensioning mechanism may be positioned adjacent the pivot point of the cuff and / or at least a portion of the second tension member is routed under the cuff as described below. The portion of the second tension member that is routed under the cuff is routed under the cuff from a lace port of the second tensioning mechanism. The ski boot may also include a releasable guide that is operably coupled with the first tension member and that is positioned in an upper portion of the path of the first tension member. In such instances, the ski boot may only include one releasable guide or alternatively may include multiple releasable guides. A portion of the first tension member may be routed under the cuff as illustrated in FIG. 9A. Opposing ends of the first tension member may be operably coupled with the first tensioning mechanism and only one end of the second tension member may be operably coupled with the second tensioning mechanism.

[0063] FIG. 9B illustrates that in some instances, the second tension member 108b may be routed under the upper cuff 103 to the second reel based closure device 104b. In this manner the upper cuff 103 functions as a bridge or shield that protects a portion or segment of the second tension member 108b. In FIG. 9A, the corresponding portion or segment of the second tension member 108b is routed externally atop the upper cuff 103.

[0064] In some embodiments, the upper reel based closure system of FIG. 9A may be used without employing the lower reel based closure system. In such embodiments, the ski boot may include a shell, a cuff coupled with the shell, a tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, a tension member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member, and a plurality of guide members coupled with the cuff and operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path about the cuff. In such instances, one of the guide members of the plurality of guide members is a guide that is releasably attached to the cuff and that is positioned in an upper portion of the path of the first tension member. The guide that is releasably attached to the cuff may be an upper right most positioned guide of the path about the cuff as illustrated in FIG. 9A or, alternatively, the guide that is releasably attached to the cuff is an upper left most positioned guide of the path about the cuff. In some instances, the ski boot may also include an additional guide that is releasably attached to the cuff.

[0065] The ski boot may further include an additional tensioning mechanism coupled with the cuff, an additional tension member operably coupled with the additional tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the additional tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the additional tension member, and an additional plurality of guides coupled with the shell and operably coupled with the additional tension member to route or direct the additional tension member along a path about the shell. The additional tensioning mechanism may be positioned adjacent a pivot point of the cuff and at least a portion of the additional tension member is routed under the cuff. The portion of the additional tension member that is routed under the cuff may be routed under the cuff from a lace port of the additional tensioning mechanism.

[0066] FIG. 10 illustrates another dual lacing system. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower lacing systems are entirely separate since the first reel based closure device 104a is attached to the upper cuff 103 while the second reel based closure device 104b is attached to the lower shell 102. The first and second reel based closure devices, 104a and 104b, are each positioned near the pivot connection point, which facilitates wearer access to both reel based closure devices. The first tension member 108a is routed from the first reel based closure device 104a upward in a zigzagging arrangement to a terminal guide that is positioned on the upper end of the lace path. The second tension member 108b is similarly routed in a zigzagging arrangement from the second reel based closure device 104b to a terminal guide that is positioned on the bottom end of the lace path. In some embodiments, the first tension member 108a and the second tension member 108b have only a single end that is attached to the respective reel based closure device, although in other instances either the first tension member 108a or the second tension member 108b may have both ends attached to the respective reel based closure device.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the right hand guides of the upper lacing are releasable guides 106b. The use of multiple releasable guides 106b in the upper lacing system facilitates donning and doffing of the boot by allowing the upper cuff 103 to be opened to a greater degree. The right hand guides of the lower lacing system include elongate fixed guides 106c in which a proximal end of the guide 106c is attached on the medial side of the ski boot and the distal end extends over the lower shell's flap or panel to a position near an opening or seam of the lower shell 102. The elongate fixed guides are described in greater detail in the '054 application incorporated by reference herein.

[0068] The lacing system configurations of FIG. 10 may be suited for conventional ski boot designs in which buckles are currently employed to close and tighten the ski boot about a wearer's leg and foot. In contrast to conventional designs, however, the use of the reel based closure devices may provide incremental and full release options to the wearer.

[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 11A-18B, illustrated are lacing system configurations that are designed for use in cabrio type ski boots 200 (hereinafter cabrio boot 200 or ski boot 200). A cabrio ski boot 200 is a unique boot design that employs multiple pieces that close the ski boot 200 by pulling or pressing one or more components inward toward the wearer's leg. Cabrio ski boot 200 differ from conventional ski boots in that the one or more components are pulled inward, typically in a front to back manner about the wearer's leg, whereas conventional ski boot wrap one or more straps, panels, or shells circumferentially about the ski boot, which constricts the ski boot about the wearer's.

[0070] Common cabrio designs include a shell 218, a cuff 220, and a tongue 222. The cuff 220 is typically positioned on the back of the ski boot 200 whereas the tongue 222 is positioned on the front. The cuff 220 and tongue 222 are pulled inward toward one another in a front to back manner, which presses the ski boot 200 tight against the wearer's leg and foot. The lacing system configurations of FIGS. 11A-18B achieve this fit via one or more reel based closure devices. The reel based closure devices are coupled with the cuff 220 and / or tongue 222 to achieve this fit. Cabrio ski boots 200 may be preferred in some applications due to their ability to be easily donned and doffed.

[0071] Common features of the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B include a ski boot that has or defines a front, a rear, a first side, and a second side. As noted herein, the ski boot includes a shell, a cuff that is coupled with the shell and typically positioned on a rear portion of the ski boot, and a tongue that is separate from the cuff and shell and that is coupled with the shell. The tongue is typically positioned on a front portion of the ski boot. The tongue is commonly at least partially separated from the cuff by an opening or gap positioned on one or both sides of the ski boot. The ski boot also includes a tensioning mechanism that may be coupled with the shell, cuff, or tongue. A tension member is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. At least one guide member, and commonly a plurality of guide members, is coupled with the cuff or tongue and operably coupled with the tension member to route or direct the tension member along a path that traverses the opening or gap between the cuff and tongue. The cuff and tongue are configured so that tensioning of the tension member via the tensioning mechanism causes the cuff and tongue to be pulled or pivoted toward one another.

[0072] In some of the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B, the tensioning mechanism is positioned on a front of the tongue and the path of the tension member also traverses an opening or gap between the cuff and tongue on the opposite side of the ski boot. In such instances, the path of the lace may be mirrored on the opposing sides of the ski boot. The tongue is typically attached to the shell at a connection point, which may be positioned adjacent a toe box of the ski boot. The tongue is pivotable relative to the shell about the connection point. In some of the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B, a strap or panel may be coupled with one side of the ski boot and may extend laterally across the tongue toward the opposite side. The strap or panel may be operably coupled with the tension member so that tensioning of the tension member causes the strap or panel to be pulled inward against the tongue.

[0073] In some of the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B, the tension member may terminate adjacent to the toe box of the ski boot. In such instances, the tension member may tension both an upper portion of the ski boot and a lower portion of the ski boot. In such instances, the tensioning mechanism may be the only mechanism that tightens and closes the ski boot about a wearer's foot and leg. Stated differently, the ski boot may only include one tensioning mechanism. In other embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B, the ski boot may include a second tensioning mechanism and a second tension member that is routed or directed along a path about a foot of the ski boot. In such instances, at least a portion of the second tension member may be routed underneath the tongue.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 11A, the ski boot 200 includes a shell 218, a cuff 220 that is attached to the shell 218 at a pivot connection 221, and a tongue 222 that is attached to the shell 218 at a connection point 223. The cuff 220 is attached to the shell 218 in a manner that allows the cuff 220 to pivot or rotate to some degree about the shell 218, which allows the cuff 220 to be pulled or pressed tightly against the rear of the wearer's leg. Opposing sides of the cuff 220 are typically attached to the shell 218 at a connection point 221, such as the connection point illustrated in FIG. 11A. The tongue 222 is similarly attached to the shell 218 at a connection point 223 that allows the tongue 222 to pivot in relation to the shell 218, which enables the tongue 222 to be pressed or pulled tightly against the front of the wearer's leg. The cuff 220 and tongue 222 are typically separated by a gap or opening, such as the gap illustrated in the various embodiments. In some instances, such as the embodiment of FIG. 11A, the tongue 222 is connected to the shell 218 at a single connection point 223. The tongue is made of a rigid material that is flexible enough to bend or pivot about the connection point 223. The cuff 220 and tongue 222 are commonly made of various plastic materials.

[0075] A first reel based closure device 104 is employed to tighten the tongue 222 and cuff 220 about the wearer's leg while a second reel based closure device 204 is employed to tighten the shell 218 about the wearer's foot and ankle. The first reel based closure device 104 is positioned on a strap or panel 224 that is positioned over the tongue 222. A proximal end of the strap or panel 224 (not shown) is attached to the cuff 220, or in some instances to the shell 218, while a distal end of the strap or panel 224 includes a fixed guide 106a that guides, routes, or directs the first tension member 108 about a path between the cuff 220 and the strap or panel 224. The first reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the strap or panel 224 so as to be positioned roughly centrally about the tongue 222 in an area that is easily accessible to the wearer.

[0076] The cuff 220 includes a releasable guide 106b that is positioned at a top end of the lace path and a fixed guide 106a that is positioned immediately below the releasable guide 106b. The tension member 108 is routed from the first reel based closure device 104 to the releasable guide 106b and fixed guide 106a in a manner so that the tension member 108 forms or defines a V-shape. The tension member 108 is routed from the these guides to the fixed guide 106a positioned on the strap or panel 224. As described herein, the releasable guide 106b may be removed from a guide base to quickly release tension in the tension member 108 and thereby facilitate donning and doffing of the ski boot 200.

[0077] Tensioning of the tension member 108, via the first reel based closure device 104, causes the strap or panel 224 to be pressed inward against the tongue 222, which presses the tongue 222 rearward toward the cuff 220. Likewise, the cuff 220 is pulled forward toward the tongue 222. This movement of the cuff 220 and tongue 222 causes the cuff 220 and tongue 222 to close in a clam shell like manner, which presses or pinches the ski boot 200 against the wearer's leg. The V-shaped configuration of the first tension member 108 causes the first reel based closure device 104 and first tension member 108 to tension the cuff 220 and tongue 222 in a block and tackle like fashion.

[0078] The second reel based closure device 204 is positioned on a lower segment or portion of the cuff 220. The second reel based closure device 204 is typically positioned on the lateral or outer side of the ski boot 200. A second tension member 208 is attached to the second reel based closure device 204 and is guided across a seam of the lower shell via a plurality of fixed guides 106a. The second tension member 208 is routed between opposing sides of the tongue 222 in a zigzagging arrangement. The second tension member 208 is also routed under a front portion or segment of the tongue 222. In this manner, the second tension member 208 directly tensions the shell 218 rather than the tongue 222. The tongue 222 protects the second tension member 208 since the tension member is routed underneath the tongue 222. In some instances, a proximal end of the second tension member 208 is operably coupled with the second reel based closure device 204 while a distal end of the second tension member 208 is fixedly secured to the shell 218. The second reel based closure device 204 is operable to directly tension the shell 218 while the first reel based closure device 104 is operable to directly tension the cuff 220 and tongue 222.

[0079] The ski boot 200 may also include a strap 112 that is wrapped around an upper end of the ski boot 200 and / or the cuff 220 and / or tongue 222. The strap 112 may be included or omitted from each of the cabrio designs described herein. In some instances, the second tension member 208 may be routed or positioned over the tongue 222 (not shown) or may be inserted through channels or thru holes that are formed in the tongue 222 (not shown).

[0080] FIG. 11B illustrates an embodiment that is substantially similar to the embodiment of FIG. 11A. The embodiment of FIG. 11B differs from that of FIG. 11A in that the tongue 222 is not coupled with the shell 218 via a single connection point 223. Rather, the tongue 222 is attached to the shell 218 at multiple connection points 225 that are positioned on opposing sides of the ski boot 200. These connection points 225 function similarly to the connection point 221 of the cuff 220 in that they enable the tongue 222 to pivot or rotate relative to the shell 218. The tongue 222 is also shorter in longitudinal length so that a majority of the lace path of the second tension member 208 is exposed rather than being concealed under the tongue 222. The cuff 220, tongue 222, and reel based closure devices, however, function in largely the same manner as previously described.

[0081] FIG. 12 illustrates another lacing system configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the first reel based closure device 104 is attached to the cuff 220 near a rear most portion of the ski boot. The first tension member 108 is routed from the first reel based closure device 104 to a guide 107 that is attached to a guide cable 230 that extends across the tongue 222. A distal end or portion of the guide cable 230 is fastened to the shell. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17A, the distal end of the guide cable 230 may be positioned within a channel 232 that is formed in the shell 218. The channel 232 may be formed so that the distal end of the guide cable 230 may be removed from the channel to facilitate loosening of the tension member and donning or doffing of the ski boot. In some instances, the guide 107 may not be fixedly attached to the tongue 222. Stated differently, the guide 107 may be relatively free floating atop the tongue 222. In such instances, removing the guide cable 230 from the channel 232 may essentially uncouple the guide 107 from the tongue 222, which allows the tongue to pivot about the shell 218 to a substantial degree. The guide 107 may remain attached to the first tension member 108 when detached from the tongue 222.

[0082] The guide 107 includes a channel or thru hole through which the first tension member 108 is positioned and a second channel or thru hole through which the guide cable 230 is positioned. In some instances, the guide 107 may include a single channel or thru hole through which both the first tension member 108 and guide cable 230 are positioned (e.g., see the guides of FIGS. 19A-E). The second tension member 108 is routed from the guide 107, across the opening or gap between the cuff 220 and tongue 222, and is terminated at a fixed guide positioned adjacent to the first reel based closure device 104. Tensioning of the first tension member 108 causes the upper end of the cuff 220 and tongue 222 to close in a clam shell like manner against the wearer's leg.

[0083] The second reel based closure device 204 is positioned on the cuff 220 and the second tension member 208 is routed about the shell 218 in a manner similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 11A. A difference between the embodiments, however, is that the second tension member 208 is also coupled with a guide 107 that is positioned between the leg and forefoot. The guide 107 is coupled with a guide cable 230 as described herein. The second tension member 208 is routed from the guide 107 to a plurality of fixed guides 106a that are attached to the shell 218 and positioned on opposing sides of the tongue 222. Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 11A, tensioning of the second tension member 208 causes the tongue 222 to be pulled rearward and downward in a direction generally aligned with the wearer's heel. This may cause the tongue 222 and / or cuff 220 to provide a better heel hold within the ski boot.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 13A, in the illustrated embodiment, the first reel based closure device 104 is attached to the cuff 220 near the back portion or segment of the cuff 220. The first tension member is routed from the first reel based closure device 104 to a pair of guides that are positioned on a strap 226 that extends over the tongue 222. A distal end of the strap 226 is attached to the cuff 220 or the shell 218 as previously described. A proximal end of the strap 226 is enlarged in comparison with a main body of the strap 226. The enlarged proximal end of the strap 226 accommodates a pair of guides. Specifically, a releasable guide 106b is attached to a top end of the strap 226 while a fixed end is attached to a bottom end of the strap 226. In some instances, both guides may be releasable or fixed guides. In some instances, the proximal end of the strap 226 may be forked or have a gap between the releasable guide 106b and the fixed guide 106a.

[0085] The tension member 108 is routed from these guides, across the gap between the cuff 220 and tongue 222, to a pair of fixed guides 106a (or releasable guides) that are positioned on the cuff 220 vertically above and below the first reel based closure device 104. The tension member may be routed underneath the cuff 220 between these two guides. The first reel based closure device 104 is positioned roughly centrally between the two guides positioned on the cuff 220. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 11A, tensioning the first tension member 108 causes the cuff 220 and tongue 222 to close and tighten about the wearer's leg in a clam shell like manner.

[0086] The second reel based closure device 204 is positioned on the cuff 220 and the second tension member 208 is routed underneath the tongue 222 atop the shell 218 as described in FIG. 11A. In some instances, the second tension member 208 may be routed atop the tongue 222 and / or through channels or thru holes formed in the tongue 222. FIG. 13B illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the tongue 222 is attached to the shell 218 at multiple connection points 225 rather than a single connection point 223 as described in FIG. 11A.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 14A, in the illustrated embodiment, the first reel based closure device 104 is attached directly to the tongue 222 and is positioned roughly centrally about the tongue 222. The lace path of the first tension member 108 is symmetrical about a plane that vertically intersects and divides the ski boot and that is parallel to and extends through an axis of the first reel based closure device 104. A detailed view of one half of the lace path is illustrated in the left hand image of FIG. 14A. As illustrated, the first tension member 108 is routed from the first reel based closure device 104 to a releasable guide 106b that is positioned on the cuff 220 on an upper end of the lace path. The first tension member 108 is routed from the releasable guide 106b, across the gap between the cuff 220 and tongue 222, to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on an edge of the tongue 222 and is roughly aligned vertically with the first reel based closure device 104. The first tension member 108 is routed from this guide, across the gap, to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on the cuff on a lower end of the lace path. This fixed guide 106a is typically positioned vertically below a bottom end of the first reel based closure device 104. The first tension member 108 is routed from this guide, across the gap, and over the tongue 222 vertically below the first reel based closure device 104. The tension member 108 is routed to a corresponding guide that is positioned on the opposite side of the ski boot. The lace path and guide configuration on the opposite side of the ski boot is essentially identical to that described in this paragraph. Tensioning of the first reel based closure device 104 applies direct pressure to the tongue 222 due to the direct attachment of the first reel based closure device 104 to the tongue. As described herein, the pressure applied causes the tongue 222 and cuff 220 to be pulled together in clam shell like manner.

[0088] The second reel based closure device 204 is positioned on the cuff 220 and the second tension member 208 is routed underneath the tongue 222 atop the shell 218 as described in FIG. 11A. In other instances, however, the second tension member 208 may be routed atop the tongue 222 and / or through channels or thru holes formed in the tongue 222. FIG. 14B illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the tongue 222 is attached to the shell 218 at multiple connection points 225 rather than a single connection point 223 as described in FIG. 11A.

[0089] Referring now to FIG. 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the first reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the cuff 220 so that the first reel based closure device 104 is on a backend or rear most portion of the ski boot. The first tension member 108 is routed along opposing sides of the ski boot in a symmetrical manner. The routing of the first tension member 108 along one side of the ski boot is illustrated in FIG. 15. As illustrated, the first tension member 108 is routed from the first reel based closure device 104 to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on the cuff 220 vertically below the first reel based closure device 104. The first tension member 108 is routed from this guide, across the gap between the cuff 220 and tongue 222, to a releasable guide 106b that is positioned on an edge of the tongue 222. The first tension member 108 is then routed back across the gap to a fixed guide 106a positioned on an edge of the cuff 220 and commonly vertically above both the first reel based closure device 104 and a second reel based closure device 204. The lace path of the first tension member 108 terminates at this fixed guide. The routing of the other tension member on the opposite side of the ski boot mirrors that illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0090] The second reel based closure device 204 is also attached to the cuff 220 and is positioned near the first reel based closure device 104, which may provide easy access to both reel based closure devices. The second tension member 208 is routed from the second tension member 208 to a fixed guide 106a attached to the shell 218 and is routed therefrom in a zigzagging manner between fixed guides that are attached to the shell and elongate fixed guides 106c that are attached to the tongue 222. The elongate fixed guides 106c are positioned atop the tongue 222 so that a distal end of the elongate fixed guides 106c is positioned near an edge of the tongue 222. As illustrated, the second tension member 208 and first tension member 108 may cross one another. The two tension members may be routed so that they cross each other in a roughly orthogonal orientation. The second tension member 208 may be positioned atop the first tension member 108 or vice versa. Tensioning of the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 208 pulls the tongue 222 more firmly against the wearer's leg and foot due to each of the tension members exerting a force on the tongue 222.

[0091] FIGS. 16A-B illustrate an embodiment that employs a single reel based closure device 104 to close and tighten the cuff 220 and tongue 222. The reel based closure device 104 is attached directly to the tongue 222 and is positioned roughly centrally on the tongue 222. As with some of the other embodiments described herein, the lace path on both sides of the ski boot is symmetrical. The lace path along one side of the ski boot is illustrated in FIG. 16A. As shown, the tension member 108 exits from a top end of the reel based closure device 104 and is routed roughly horizontally across the gap between the tongue 222 and cuff 220 to a releasable guide 106b that is attached to the cuff 220 at the top end of the lace path. The tension member 108 is routed from the releasable guide 106b to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on the cuff 220 and is routed therefrom to an elongate fixed guide 106c that is attached to the tongue 222 in a manner that allows the distal end of the elongate fixed guide 106c to be positioned near an edge of the tongue 222. The tension member 108 is routed from the elongate fixed guide 106c to a fixed guide 106a that is attached to the shell 218 and is routed back to a terminating guide that is attached to the tongue 222.

[0092] FIG. 16B illustrates that the tongue 222 includes two elongate fixed guides 106c that have proximal ends attached to the central portion of the tongue 222 and distal ends that are positioned near the opposing edges of the tongue 222. The two elongate fixed guides 106c are aligned with each other and are arranged on the tongue 222 so that a downward and rearward force is exerted on the tongue, which may improve a heel hold within the ski boot 200. In some instances, the lace may not terminate at the terminating guide, but rather may extend across the front of the tongue 222 so that a single continuous lace segment is routed along the ski boot, tongue 222, and cuff 220. In other instances, one or more portions or segments of the tension member 108 may be positioned beneath the tongue 222, cuff 220, and / or shell 218 to protect and conceal the tension member 108.

[0093] FIGS. 17A-B illustrate an embodiment in which a plurality of reel based closure devices are indirectly attached to the ski boot. Specifically, a first reel based closure device 104 is attached to a distal end of a panel 238 while a second reel based closure device 204 is attached to a proximal end of the panel 238. The proximal end of the panel 238 is attached to a lateral side of the cuff 220 via one or more fasteners while the distal end of the panel 238 is not attached to the ski boot. The non-attachment of the distal end of the panel 238 enables the distal end of the panel 238 to move somewhat freely relative to the tongue 222. The panel 238 is commonly shaped and sized so that the first reel based closure device 104 is positioned roughly centrally atop the tongue 222. The attachment of the panel 238 to the cuff 220 indirectly attaches the two reel based closure devices to the ski boot.

[0094] The lace path of the first tension member 108 is routed only along or about the medial side of the ski boot. Specifically, the first tension member 108 is routed from the first reel based closure device 104, across the gap, to a fixed or releasable guide (fixed guide 106a is illustrated) that is positioned on the cuff 220. The first tension member 108 is routed therefrom to a second fixed guide 106a that is positioned on the cuff 220 vertically below the fixed or releasable guide. The first tension member 108 is routed from this guide, across the gap, to an elongate fixed guide 106c that is attached to the tongue 222 in a manner that allows the distal end of the elongate fixed guide 106c to be positioned at or near an edge of the tongue 222. The first tension member 108 is routed from the elongate fixed guide 106c, across the gap, to a terminating guide that is affixed to the cuff 220. The first tension member 108 may cross itself as it is routed from elongate fixed guide 106c to the terminating guide. The crossing portions or segments of the tension member 108 may be roughly orthogonal in orientation.

[0095] Tensioning of the first tension member 108 causes the panel 238 to be pulled or pressed against the top portion of the tongue 222, which moves the tongue 222 backward toward the cuff 220 to tighten the cuff 220 and tongue 222 about the wearer's leg as previously described.

[0096] In contrast to the routing of the first tension member 108, the second tension member 208 is routed only along the lateral side of the ski boot. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 17B, the second tension member 208 is routed from the second reel based closure device 204 downward to a fixed guide 106a that is attached to the cuff 220 and is routed therefrom, across the gap, to an elongate fixed guide 106c that is positioned on the tongue 222. The elongate fixed guide 106c is attached to the tongue in a manner that allows the distal end of the elongate fixed guide 106c to be positioned at or near an edge of the tongue 222. The second tension member 208 is routed from the elongate fixed guide 106c to a fixed guide 106a that is attached to the shell and is then routed to a guide 107 that is attached to a guide cable 230 that extends across the tongue 222. The second tension member 208 then is routed to a termination point on the shell, which termination may be achieved via a bolt, screw, guide, or mechanical fastener.

[0097] As previously described, a distal end or portion of the guide cable 230 is fastened to the shell, such as by positioning the distal end of the guide cable 230 within a channel 232 that is formed in the shell 218. The channel 232 may be formed so that the distal end of the guide cable 230 may be removed from the channel to facilitate loosening of the tension member and donning or doffing of the ski boot. In some instances, a guide (not shown) or mechanical fastener (not shown) may be used to attach the guide cable 230 to the shell. In such instances a channel 232 does not need to be formed in the shell 218. Rather, the guide for the guide cable 230 may be attached to the shell and the guide cable 230 may be releasably or non-releasably coupled with this guide. The guide 107 is typically not fixedly attached to the tongue 222. Rather, the guide 107 is commonly able to freely move or float atop the tongue 222. As such, removing the guide cable 230 from the channel 232 may essentially uncouple the guide 107 from the tongue 222. The guide may remain attached to the second tension member 208 even when detached or uncoupled from the tongue 222.

[0098] The two elongate fixed guides 106c have proximal ends attached to the central portion of the tongue 222 and distal ends that are positioned near the opposing edges of the tongue 222. The two elongate fixed guides 106c are positioned in the ankle region of the ski boot and may be affixed together by a fastening member, such as a bolt 236 that is fixed to the tongue 222. As such, the two elongate fixed guides 106c function together as a single guide. The two elongate fixed guides 106c provide a downward and rearward force on the tongue 222 that provides increased heel hold and / or stability within the ski boot. In addition, since the opposing ends of the elongate fixed guides 106c are tensioned by the two different tension members, 108 and 208, the heel hold and stability may be provided even when only one of the two tension members, 108 and 208, is tensioned or more commonly where the tension in the two tension members, 108 and 208, differs by a substantial or marginal amount. In some embodiments, the bolt 236 may be positioned within a slot to allow the two elongate fixed guides 106c to slide laterally atop the tongue 222 to some degree.

[0099] In some instances, the routing of the first and second tension members, 108 and 208, may be reversed so that the first tension member 108 is routed only along the lateral side of the ski boot while the second tension member 208 is routed only along the medial side of the ski boot.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 18A-B, illustrated is an embodiment that employs a single reel based closure device 104 to provide closure or tensioning of the tongue 222 and cuff 220. The reel based closure device 104 is positioned on the lateral side of the ski boot and may be positioned near the rear of the ski boot. Unlike the previous embodiments, the ski boot includes a pair of wrapping panels, 240 and 242, that are positioned over an upper portion of the tongue 222. The wrapping panels, 240 and 242, may be attached to the cuff 220 (or in some instances the shell 218) or may be integrally formed with the cuff 220. A medial panel 242 of the pair is designed to wrap over and atop a lateral panel 240 of the pair. Wrapping of the panels, 240 and 242, causes the panels, 240 and 242, to constrict about the tongue 222, which presses the tongue 222 inward in a manner similar to that previously described.

[0101] The tension member 108 is routed from the reel based closure device 104 to an elongate fixed guide 106c that is attached to the medial panel 242. Tensioning of the elongate fixed guide 106c effects wrapping of the medial panel 242 about the lateral panel 240. In some instances, the elongate fixed guide 106c may be replaced with a fixed guide 106a or a releasable guide 106b as desired.

[0102] The tension member 108 is routed from the elongate fixed guide 106c to a fixed guide 106a that is positioned on the cuff 220 and is routed therefrom to a guide 107 that is attached to guide cables 230 as described herein. A distal end of the guide cables 230 may be attached to the shell 218 as described herein. The tension member 108 is routed from the guide 107 to a fixed guide 106a positioned on the shell 218 and then to a fixed guide 106a positioned on a front portion of the tongue 222. The tension member 108 is routed back toward the heel to a terminating guide 111 or termination point that is positioned near the pivot connection point of the cuff 220 and shell 218. The tension member 108 may cross itself as it is routed to the termination guide 111.

[0103] A method of manufacturing a ski boot includes providing a shell, such as those illustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-18B and coupling a cuff with the shell so that the cuff is positioned on a rear portion of the ski boot. The method also includes coupling a tongue with the shell so that the tongue is positioned on a front portion of the ski boot and coupling a tensioning mechanism with the shell, cuff, or tongue. The method further includes operably coupling a tension member with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member and coupling at least one guide member with the cuff or tongue. The method additionally includes operably coupling the at least one guide with the tension member to route or direct the tension member between the cuff and tongue. The cuff and tongue are configured such that tensioning of the tension member pulls or pivots the cuff and tongue toward one another in a clam shell like manner.

[0104] The tension member may be routed or directed between the cuff and tongue on opposing sides of the ski boot. Coupling the tongue with the shell may include attaching the tongue to the shell at a connection point positioned adjacent a toe box of the ski boot. In some instances, the method may additionally include coupling a strap or panel with a first side of the ski boot so that the strap or panel extends laterally across the tongue toward a second side of the ski boot and operably coupling the strap or panel with the tension member. In some instances, the method may additionally include coupling an additional tensioning mechanism and an additional tension member with the ski boot so that the additional tension member is routed or directed along a path about a foot of the ski boot.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 19A-E, illustrated are various guides that may be employed with the lacing systems described herein or for various other applications, such as for various articles of footwear, boots, backpacks, apparel, and the like. FIG. 19A shows a guide head 300 (hereinafter guide 300) that includes a guide body 302 having a front end and a distal end. The distal end of the guide body 302 includes a slot or opening 306 (hereinafter slot 306) that enables the guide body 302 to be attached to a fastening member, such as those described herein. The slot 306 is formed or defined between the guide body 302 and a material bridge or segment 304 that extends between opposing sides of the guide body 302. In attaching a fastening member to the guide body 302, the fastening member is inserted through the slot 306 and around the material bridge 304. The fastening member may then be fastened or coupled together around the material bridge 304, such as by stitching or fastening the fastening member together or to another material, such as the shell 218, tongue 222, or cuff 220.

[0106] The guide body 302 includes a channel or thru hole 310 through which a tension member (e.g., tension member 108 and / or 208) is inserted to couple the tension member to the guide body 302. The channel 310 typically has an arcuate shape so as to distribute forces imparted on the channel 310 from the tension member and thereby minimize wear. Stated differently, the channel 310 is shaped and sized to minimize pressure points within the channel 310 and on the tension member that would cause excessive wear on these components. Opposing sides of the guide body 302 include a groove 312 within which the tension member may be positioned as the tension member enters and exits the channel 310. The channel 310 is typically sized sufficiently wide so that an anchoring cable or wire (e.g., guide cable 230) may also be inserted within the channel 310 in addition to the tension member. The anchoring cable or wire may be used in place of the fastening member to attach the guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article.

[0107] In some instances, the guide body 302 is square in shape. However, the guide body 302 is more commonly rectangular in shape having a greater lateral width than longitudinal length. The greater lateral width may enable the channel 310 of the guide body 302 to have a greater radius of curvature that minimizes wear on the guide body 302 and tension member. The guide body 302 also has a thickness that is substantially smaller than either the lateral width or longitudinal length, which allows the guide body and tension member to be positioned close to the ski boot or other article. As illustrated in FIG. 19A, the proximal end of the guide body 302 may be thinner than the distal end. In such instances, a top surface of the guide body 302 may taper from about a midpoint of body to the proximal end. The thicker distal end enables the material bridge 304 to be sufficiently strong under load from the tension member. The guide body 302 may be made of various materials including plastics or metals, but is commonly made of rigid plastic materials having sufficient strength to withstand the imparted loads without breaking. The channel 310 of the guide body 302 may be formed or lined with a low friction material to minimize unnecessary wear.

[0108] FIGS. 19B-E illustrate various fastening members, wires, or cables that may be attached to the guide body 302 to affix the guide 300 to a ski boot or other article. The guide 300 and fastening member, wire, or cable, may be employed as the fixed guide 106a and / or guide 107 described herein.

[0109] In FIG. 19B, a wire or cable is coupled with the guide body 302 to affix the guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article. In particular, a flexible cable 320 may be inserted through the channel 310. A distal end of the flexible cable 320 may include or form a coupling hole 314 through which a mechanical fastener, such as a bolt, screw, rivet, etc., may be inserted to fasten the flexible cable 320 and guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article. The flexible cables may be made of various cords, braided materials, and the like. Alternatively, a rigid wire 322 may be inserted through the channel 310. A distal end of the rigid wire 322 may similarly include or form a coupling hole 314 through which a mechanical fastener is inserted to couple the rigid wire 322 and guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article. The rigid wire 322 is typically made of a metal material. The guide body 302 of FIG. 19B may be used as the guide 107 described herein. In some instances, the coupling hole 314 may be omitted so that a distal end of the flexible cable 320 or rigid wire 322 may be inserted within a channel formed in or coupled with the ski boot (e.g., channel 232).

[0110] In FIG. 19C, a flexible strap or rigid material is coupled with the guide body 302 to affix the guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article. In particular, a flexible strap 324 may be inserted through the slot 306. The flexible strap 324 may be folded back on itself to form a loop that surrounds the material bridge 304. The flexible strap 324 may then be attached to itself to lock or affix the flexible strap 324 around the material bridge 304. The flexible strap 324 may include a coupling hole 314 (see FIG. 20B) through which a mechanical fastener is inserted to couple the flexible strap 324 and guide body 302 to the ski boot or other article. The flexible strap 324 may be made of a fabric material, a flexible plastic material, or a flexible metal. Alternatively, the flexible strap 324 may be replaced with a rigid material strip (e.g., rigid material strip 325). In such instances, the rigid material strip may be folded back on itself around the material bridge and may be attached together. For example, a coupling hole 314 may be formed in opposing ends of the rigid material strip so that when the mechanical fastener is inserted through the coupling hole, the opposing ends of the rigid material strip are coupled together. The rigid material strip may be formed of a rigid plastic, a metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), or another rigid material.

[0111] When a rigid material strip is used in place of the flexible strap 324, a plastic cover 326 may be positioned atop the rigid material strip or the rigid material strip may be inserted within a channel of the plastic cover. The plastic cover 326 may be used for decorative purposes to hide and conceal the rigid material strip. The plastic cover 326 may include a coupling hole 314 that corresponds in position and orientation to the coupling hole in the rigid material strip.

[0112] FIGS. 19D-E illustrate alternative embodiments in which a cable or wire is coupled with the guide body 302. In FIG. 19D, the wire / cable 328 is inserted through the channel 310 of the guide body 302 as previously described. Unlike the embodiments of FIG. 19B, however, opposing ends of the wire / cable 328 each include a coupling hole 314. In this manner, the wire / cable 328 may be attached or affixed to the ski boot or other article at two locations. FIG. 19E is similar to FIG. 19D except that a single wire / cable 328 is coupled with a plurality of guide bodies 302. The wire / cable 328 is inserted through the channel 310 of each guide body to attach the wire / cable 328 to the guide bodies 302. Opposing ends of the wire / cable 328 include a coupling hole 314, which enables the opposing ends of the wire / cable 328 to be attached to the ski boot or article. A midsection of the wire / cable 328 may also be attached to the ski boot or article by positioning the middle section around a guide (not shown) or other component that is attached to ski boot. The guide may be a boss or post, may be guide having a channel through which the wire / cable 328 is inserted, or may be another coupling feature, such as a wire, cord, or cable. When attached to the ski boot or other article, the midsection of the wire / cable 328 typically forms a U-shape or V-shape between the opposing guide bodies 302.

[0113] FIG. 20A illustrates the guide body 302 being attached to a ski boot. A rigid material strip 325 is attached to the guide body 302 as described herein. The rigid material strip 325 is then inserted within a plastic cover 326 that may be used for decorative purposes. The rigid material strip 325 and plastic cover 326 each include coupling holes 314 that coaxially align when the rigid material strip 325 is inserted within the plastic cover 326. The guide 300 including these components (i.e., the plastic cover 326, rigid material strip 325, and guide body 302) is then positioned on the ski boot and a mechanical fastener (not shown) is inserted through the coupling hole 314 to attach the guide 300 to the ski boot. A tension member 108 may then be routed through the channel 310 of the guide body 302.

[0114] FIG. 20B shows an alternative design in which the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 is attached to the ski boot in an uncovered manner. In such instances, the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may be visible atop the ski boot. As illustrated in the side profile, the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may be coupled together immediately adjacent to the material bridge 304 so that the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 has a thin profile along most of its longitudinal length.

[0115] FIG. 20C illustrates yet another alternative design in which the rigid material strip 325 is inserted within a housing 330 that is formed on the ski boot or otherwise coupled therewith. The housing 330 includes a channel within which the rigid material strip 325 is inserted. Although a flexible strap 324 may be used with the housing 330, the use of a rigid material strip 325 is preferred because the rigidity of the material facilitates insertion of the material within the channel of the housing 330. The rigid material strip 325 may be formed to have a thin profile along its longitudinal length or may have a more open profile as desired.

[0116] FIG. 20D illustrates various embodiments of the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325. Specifically, depending on the application, the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may have a relatively short longitudinal length, a relatively long longitudinal length, or a length somewhere in between. In one instance, the length of a short flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may be between 15-25 mm, and more commonly about 20 mm, whereas the length of a long flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may be between 70-90 mm, and more commonly about 80 mm. An intermediate length of the flexible strap 324 or rigid material strip 325 may be between 30-55 mm and more commonly about 40 mm.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 21A-C, illustrated is a cover or protector 400 (hereinafter cover 400) that can be coupled with a reel based closure device to help minimize accidental opening of the reel based closure device and / or ejection or dislodgement of the reel based closure device from its base member. Specifically, the reel based closure device includes a housing 412 that is removably attached to a base member 410. Removable attachment of the housing 412 and base member 410 means that the housing 412 may be detached or uncoupled from the base member 410 upon application of an external force or upon application of a housing removal tool. As described in the applications incorporated by reference herein, detachment of the housing 412 from the base member 410 may be desired to prevent permanent damage to the reel based closure device. For example, when an external object, such as a rock, tree, metal or plastic object, etc., contacts the reel based closure device as the wearer is skiing or engaging in another object, the force or impact of the external object may be sufficient to cause the housing 412, knob 414, or other component to crack and break. To prevent this breakage, the impact may cause the housing 412 to detach from the base member 410. Thus, the reel based closure device may be able to absorb the impact without causing permanent damage. The housing 412 may then be reattached to the base member 410 and the reel based closure device may be operated in a normal manner to tighten the boot.

[0118] A potential issue with detachment of the housing 412 from the base member 410 is that the reel based closure device may only be attached to the tension member 108. The suspension of the reel based closure device from the tension member 108 may result in the reel based closure device swinging and / or moving freely, which could pose a danger to the wearer and / or could result in unnecessary damage to the reel based closure device. For example, the reel based closure device may swing into contact with an external object, such as a branch or brush, and the tension member 108 may entangle with the external object. In other instances, the reel based closure device may entangle with the other boot or with the ski. This entanglement may put the wearer in a precarious position and / or result in damage to the reel based closure device.

[0119] To minimize or prevent these and other scenarios, the cover 400 is designed to keep the reel based closure device positioned near the base member 410 even after detachment of the base member 410 and housing 412. This is achieved by the cover 400 being wrapped or positioned over the knob 414 and attached to the base member 410 or ski boot on opposing sides of the reel based closure device. Specifically, a proximal end 405 of the cover 400 is attached to a first side of the reel based closure device adjacent to the lace port(s) of the tension member 108 and a distal end 404 of the cover 400 is attached to a second side of the reel based closure device opposite to the lace port(s). A main body 402 of the cover 400 extends over the knob 414 from the proximal end 405 to the distal end 404. The proximal end 405 may be attached to the base member 410 or may be integrally formed with the base member 410. In some instances, the cover 400 may be a thin material that is positioned between the ski boot and the base member 410. In such instances, the cover 400 may be attached to the ski boot along with the base member 410 using any attachment method known in the art.

[0120] The distal end 404 of the cover 400 may similarly be secured to the base member 410 or the ski boot using any attachment method known in the art. In some embodiments, the distal end 404 of the cover 400 may be affixed directly to the ski boot using a mechanical fastener, such as a bolt, rivet, snap, button, and the like. In other instances, the distal end 404 may be affixed directly to the base member 410. The distal end 404 may be permanently affixed to the ski boot or base member, or may be detachably coupled with the ski boot or base member. Detachable coupling of the distal end 404 may be preferred to enable the cover 400 to be uncoupled from the ski boot or base member 410 to enable detachment of the reel based closure device for replacement, repair, and the like.

[0121] The proximal end 405 of the cover 400 may include an opening 408 through which the lace port(s) of the housing 412 is positioned. The opening 408 may be defined or formed by opposing arms 406 that extend upward along a front face of the reel based closure device between the main body 402 and proximal end 405. The main body 402 and arms 406 form or have a Y-shaped configuration. The opening 408 and arms 406 are shaped and sized so that they do not engage or interfere with the tension member 108. The main body 402 is typically thin and has a small width in relation to its longitudinal length. For example, the width of the main body 402 may be 10-40% of a diameter of the knob 414 and more commonly 15-30% or 20-35% of the diameter of the knob 414. The smaller width of the main body 402 enables the wearer to easily grasp opposing sides of the knob 414 and rotate the knob 414 to tighten the tension member 108. Stated differently, the smaller width of the main body 402 does not impede or interfere with operation of the knob 414. In some instances, the width of the main body 402 may taper inward between the proximal end 405 and the distal end 404. The distal end 404 may likewise have a relatively small width in comparison with the longitudinal length of the main body 402. The width of the distal end 404 may correspond with the width of the distal end of the main body 402.

[0122] The cover 400 is attached to the ski boot so that the main body 402 is positioned above the top of the knob 414. Stated differently, the cover 400 is attached so that a gap or some clearance is formed or present between the main body 402 and the top of the knob 414. This gap allows the housing 412 to be detached from the base member 410 and / or may allow the knob 414 to move axially upward relative to the housing 412 to achieve a full release of the tension in the tension member 108. The gap may aid in minimizing unintentional release of the tension member 108 by impeding unintended axial movement of the knob 414 due to contact with external objects. The gap may be selected or designed so that an overall height of the reel based closure device and cover 400 is minimized while achieving all of the described functions of the cover.

[0123] The cover 400 may be formed of a various rigid or flexible materials. For example, in one embodiment, the cover 400 may be formed of a rigid metal material, plastic material, or a combination of one or more metals and plastics. A rigid cover may offer additional protection in comparison with a more flexible material. In other embodiments, the cover 400 may be made of a flexible material, such as a flexible plastic, a fabric material, or a combination of one or more flexible plastic and fabric materials. A flexible material may enable the wearer to more easily rotated the knob 414.

[0124] FIG. 21C illustrates the cover 400 being used to prevent dislodgement or ejection of the housing 412 from the base member 410. Specifically, the figure illustrates the housing 412 in a detached state relative to the base member 410. A front of the housing 412 is pivoted or rotated upward about the housing 412, which may be representative of a detachment of the two components due to impact with an external object. When the housing 412 is detached from the base member 410, the knob 414 contacts and engages with an underside of the main body 402. The engagement of the main body 402 and knob 414 prevents the reel based closure device from being displaced away from the base member 410 and thus, the potential problems associated with such a displacement are avoided. The engagement of the cover 400 and reel based closure device may also preserve a nominal tension in the tension member 108 and thus, a nominal tightness of the boot about the wearer's foot. As illustrated in FIG. 21C, the cover 400 is designed so that a sufficient impact to the reel based closure device will cause detachment of the housing 412 from the base member without displacing the reel based closure device from the base member 410. Thus, the reel based closure device may be prevented from permanent damage while remaining in close proximity to the base member 410.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 22A-23F, illustrated is an embodiment of a decorative guide that may be employed with the lacing systems described herein or for various other applications, such as for various articles of footwear, boots, backpacks, apparel, and the like. The decorative guide includes a cover 540 that may be removably coupled with an underlying guide body. The use of the cover 540 enables the guide to be customized for functional and / or aesthetic purposes. For example, the cover 540 may enable different brands to provide unique and distinguishing decorative guides even though the same underlying guide body is being used. The cover 540 is easily customizable without negatively affecting a performance of the decorative guide.

[0126] The decorative guide is illustrated as including three components, although a customizable guide with more or fewer components is contemplated herein. The three components include: the cover 540, an attachment arm 520 (hereinafter arm 520), and a guide body 500 (hereinafter guide 500). The guide 500 and arm 520 are typically “universal” components, which means that these components are not commonly altered, changed, or revised. Rather, these components (i.e., the guide 500 and arm 520) represent the underlying guide body that is covered by the cover 540. The cover 540 is commonly the only component that is altered, changed, or revised in order to achieve a customizable guide. The alteration, change, or revision of the cover 540 may include one or more modifications to a color; shape, size, or thickness; material; design (e.g., surface patterning, texture, etc.); or any other modification or combination of modifications that may be desired. The use of the customizable cover 540 enables the same underlying guide body, or a similar underlying guide body, to be employed on different articles in a manner that provides an appreciably different visual appearance. While the guide 500 and arm 520 are described as being universal components, it should be appreciated that variations from the illustrated configurations may be employed for aesthetic and / or functional purposes.

[0127] The guide 500, arm 520, and cover 540 are configured so that the components fit together in a manner that is easy to assembly and strong or robust in coupling. Specifically, the guide 500 and cover 540 include features that snap or fit together in a coupled state while the arm 520 and cover 540 include features that allow the components to be fastened to the article. In a specific embodiment, the decorative guide may be used on a ski or snowboard boot to guide or direct a lace or tension member about the boot.

[0128] FIG. 22A illustrates a detailed perspective view of the guide 500. The guide 500 includes main body having a front end, a rear end, a bottom surface or end, a top surface or end, and opposing sides. The guide 500 includes a channel or thru hole 510 (hereinafter channel 510) that extends through the guide 500 between the opposing sides. A lace or tension member (not shown) is positionable through the channel 510 so that the guide 500 is able to route or direct the lace or tension member along a path. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide 500 includes arms 512 that extend proximally from the front end of the guide 500. The arms may function to guide or route the lace or tension member into the channel 510 in a manner that minimizes friction between the guide 500 and the lace or tension member. An arcuate or curved path may be formed in each of the arms 512, and / or within the channel 510, to distribute forces imparted on the arms 512 and / or channel 510 from the lace or tension member and thereby minimize wear. Stated differently, the channel 510 and / or arms 512 may be shaped and sized to minimize pressure points within the channel 510 and / or arms 512 that would cause excessive wear of these components from the lace or tension member. In some instances, the arms 512 may be shortened in comparison with the image illustrated in FIG. 22A or the arms 512 may be omitted entirely.

[0129] The top surface of the guide 500 may include an opening 502 that is positioned above the channel 510. The use of the opening 502 may enable a thickness of the guide 500 to be reduced, which may be beneficial in closing or tightening the article (e.g., ski or snowboard boot) and / or enable a greater customization of the cover 540 to be achieved. The guide 500 is generally rectangular in shape having a greater lateral width than longitudinal length. The greater lateral width may enable the channel 510 of the guide 500 to have a greater radius of curvature that minimizes wear on the guide 500 and tension member. The guide 500 may also have a thickness that is substantially smaller than either the lateral width or longitudinal length, which allows the guide 500 to be positioned close to the article.

[0130] In some instances, the arms 512 may have a thickness that is greater than a central portion or body 511 of the guide 500 that extends between the two arms 512. The central body 511 has a bottom surface that is commonly offset from a bottom surface of the arms 512 and a top surface that is offset from a top surface of the arms 512. In some instances, the bottom surface of the central body 511 is offset from the bottom surface of the arms 512 by an amount approximately equal to a thickness of a material strip of the arm 520. In such instances, when the guide 500 is coupled with the arm 520, a bottom surface of the arm 520 is roughly aligned with the bottom surface of the guide's arms 512. Similarly, the top surface of the central body 511 may be offset from the top surface of the arms 512 by an amount approximately equal to a thickness the material strip of the arm 520 and a thickness of a hood 543 of the cover 540. In such instances, when the guide 500 is coupled with the arm 520 and cover 540, a top surface of the hood 543 may be roughly aligned with the top surface of the guide's arms 512. An example of this coupling and alignment is illustrated in FIG. 23F.

[0131] The front of the guide 500 may be rounded or curved while the rear end of the guide 500 is generally planar or flat. The central body 511 may include raised sides 506 that form or define a wide slot or channel. Opposing ends of the slot or channel are illustrated by reference numeral 504 in FIG. 22A. The central body's slot or channel typically has a width that corresponds to a width of the arm 520 so that when the arm 520 is coupled with the guide 500, the arms is positioned within the central body's slot or channel between the raised sides 506. The raised sides 506 may extend from a distal surface 507 of the guide 500 (see FIG. 23F) and around the front end of the guide 500 along both the top and bottom surfaces of the guide 500. In such instances, the raised sides 506 extend fully or nearly fully around the central body 511. In this manner, the central body's slot or channel may be formed or defined around essentially the entirety of the guide 500. The guide 500 may be made of various polymer or metal materials, but is more commonly made of rigid polymer materials having sufficient strength to withstand applied loads without breaking. The raised sides 506 each include a pocket or slot 505 that is designed or configured to engage a tab or overhang 544 of the cover 540 as described in greater detail herein. In a specific embodiment, the guide 500 and / or channel 510 is made of a low friction and durable material, such as Polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0132] FIG. 22B illustrates a perspective detailed view of the arm 520. The arm 520 includes a distal end that is attachable to the article and a proximal end that is coupled with the guide 500 to attach the guide 500 to the article. The proximal end of the arm 520 is shaped and sized so that the proximal end surrounds at least a portion of the guide 500. The arm 520 is typically formed of a single material strip or component, although in some instances multiple materials strips or components may be used in forming the arm 520. In a specific embodiment, the arm 520 is made of a thin metal material, such as sheet metal, although the use of various polymer materials is contemplated herein. The use of metal materials may be preferred as they enable the arm 520 to be formed of very thin materials that are strong enough to withstand high tension loads.

[0133] In some instances the arm 520 has a relatively small lateral width in comparison with its long longitudinal length. The longer longitudinal length allows a distal end of the arm 520 to be positioned away from the proximal end, such as positioning the distal end near a sole of a ski boot while the proximal end is positioned closer to a mid or central section of the ski boot (see e.g., FIG. 20A). The arm 520 is formed by folding the material strip so that a distal portion 522 and looped end 526 are formed. The distal portion 522 typically includes two segments of the material strip that are positioned adjacent one another, although the material strip may be folded so that a single material strip segment forms the distal portion 522. The use of two segments of the material strip in the distal portion 522 provides a substantially more robust and secure coupling of the guide 500 with the arms 520. Two materials strip segments may also secure and reinforce the coupling of the looped end 526 and guide 500. The looped end 526 is shaped and sized to accommodate the guide 500. Specifically, the shape and size of the looped end 526 is constructed so that the guide's central body 511 is positionable within the looped end 526 and so that the material strip is wrapped tightly around the central body 511. The opposing sides of the guide 500 typically extend laterally outward from the looped end 526 of the material strip. The material strip is sized so that it is positionable within the slot or channel of the central body 511 between the opposing ends denoted by reference numeral 504. A thickness of the material strip commonly approximates a height of the raised sides 506 so that when the material strip is wrapped about the central body 511, an exterior surface of the material strip is roughly aligned with a surface of the raised sides 506. In some instances, the arm 520 may have a uniform width between the proximal and distal ends, although in other instances the width of the arm 520 may vary.

[0134] The proximal portion of the looped end 526 may be round or curved to correspond with the round and curved shape of the front end of the guide 500. A distal portion of the looped end 526 may taper downward to the distal portion 522 of the arm 520. A distal end of the distal portion 522 typically includes a thru hole 524 through which a bolt, screw, or other mechanical fastener is positionable to secure the arm 520 to the article, such as the exterior of a ski boot. The guide 500 is coupleable with the arm 520 by opening the two segment of the arm's distal portion 522 and by inserting the guide 500 within the looped end 526. The mechanical fastener may then be inserted through the thru hole 524 to secure the distal portion 522 to the article and permanently affix the guide 500 within the looped end 526.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 22C-D, a detailed perspective view of the cover 540 is provided. The cover is configured to be removably or non-removably positioned atop the guide 500 and arm 520 and to be coupled therewith. The cover 540 conceals the guide 500 and arm 520 from external view, such as for aesthetic purposes. The use of the cover 540 enables the decorative guide to be customized even though the underlying guide body (i.e., the guide 500 and arm 520) are the same. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 540 and arm 520 include an elongate opening or aperture along its main body 542. In other embodiments the opening or aperture of the cover 540 and / or arm 520 may be omitted and various other modifications may be made to the shape, size, color, and / or design of the cover 540. For example, the main body 542 of the cover 540 may be a solid material that includes a logo and / or color scheme representative of a given brand. The cover 540 includes a coupling hole 546 that corresponds in shape, size, and orientation to the thru hole 524 in the distal end of the arm 520.

[0136] A peripheral rib or flange 554 extends downward from the main body 542 and extends around a periphery of the main body 542. The peripheral rib 554 defines a recess or pocket 552 within which the distal portion 522 of the arm 520 is positioned when the cover 540 is coupled with the arm 520. The peripheral rib 554 terminates in proximal edges 548 that are shaped and sized to correspond with a distal surface 507 (see FIG. 23F) of the guide 500. The proximal edges 548 engage with the guide's distal surface 507 when the cover 540 is coupled with the guide 500. The proximal edges 548 also maintain contact with the arm 520 when the cover 540 is coupled with the guide 500 and arm 520, which aids in stabilizing the decorative guide.

[0137] The cover's main body 542 may taper 550 upward to a proximal end or hood 543 that is shaped, sized, and configured to cover and conceal the central body 511 of the guide 500. Specifically, the hood is positioned around the guide 500 when the cover 540 is coupled with the guide 500. The tapered section 550 of the cover 540 corresponds in shape, size, and orientation to the tapered section of the arm 520. A width of the hood 543 corresponds to a width of the guide's central body 511 so that when coupled with the guide 500, the hood 540 extends roughly or approximately between the inner surface or walls of the two arms 512. In some embodiments, the main body 542 of the cover 540 may have a width that corresponds to the width of the hood 543 so that the cover 540 has a uniform width along its entire longitudinal length. In other embodiments, the width of the main body 542 may be varied to further customize the guide. The hood 543 typically has a thickness corresponding to a distance between the surface of the guide's raised sides 506 and a top surface of the arms 512. In such instances, when the hood 543 is coupled with the guide 500, a top surface of the hood 543 is roughly aligned with the top surface of the arms 512.

[0138] A proximal or front end of the hood 543 curves or bends, such as in a semi or half circle, and terminates in a distally projecting tab or overhang 544 that is positioned underneath the guide 500 when the cover 540 is coupled with the guide 500. The tab or overhang 544 is spaced away from an inner surface 547 of the hood 543 by an amount equally to a thickness of the guide's central body 511, which enables the front end of the hood 543 to be positioned around the guide's central body 511 and coupled therewith as illustrated in FIGS. 23A-F. FIGS. 23A-B illustrate that the cover's tab or overhang 544 is designed to be positioned within the pockets or slots 505 of the raised sides 506.

[0139] To couple or attach the cover 540 to the guide 500 and arm 520, the guide 500 is first inserted within the looped end 526 of the arm 520. The front end of the hood 543 is then positioned around the guide's central body 511 so that the tab or overhang 544 is positioned within the pockets or slots 505 as illustrated in FIGS. 23C-D. In some instances, the tab or overhang 544 may snap or fit into the pockets or slots 505. To position the front end of the hood 543 around the guide's central body 511, and to position the tab or overhang 544 within the pockets or slots 505, the main body 542 is commonly positioned at an angle relative to the guide 500 and arm 520. Positioning of the tab or overhang 544 within the pockets or slots 505 hooks or latches the hood 543 to the guide 500. The main body 542 of the cover 540 is then rotated or pivoted downward toward the arm 520, which causes guide's central body 511 to be positioned within the hood 543 and the distal portion 522 of the arm 520 to be positioned within the main body's recess or pocket 552. The proximal edges 548 of the cover 540 are also rotated into engagement with the guide's distal surface 507, which locks or maintains the guide 500 in positional orientation or relationship with the hood 543. Specifically, the guide's central body 511 is locked between the tab or overhang 544, which engages the front end of the central body 511, and the proximal edges 548, which engage the rear end of the central body 511. The tab or overhang 544 also prevents upward movement of the cover 540 due to be positioned within and engaging the pockets or slots 505.

[0140] As illustrated in the cross section view of FIG. 23F, the guide's distal surface 507 may be angled or tapered 509 to enable the proximal edges 548 to be rotated into engagement with the guide's distal surface 507. In some embodiments, the arms 512 of the guide 500 may extend proximally from the front end of the hood 543 when the cover 540 is attached to the guide 500, although the front end of the hood 543 and / or arms 512 may be modified to provide a desired customized appearance. With the hood 543 attached to the guide 500 and the distal portion 522 of the arm 520 positioned within the recess or pocket 552, the cover 540 conceals the arm 520 and a majority of the guide 500. A mechanical fastener may then be inserted through the coaxially aligned coupling hole 546 of the cover 540 and the thru hole 524 of the arm 520 to fasten the decorative guide to the article, such as to a ski or snowboard boot. A tension member (not shown) may then be routed through the channel 510 of the guide 500 to route or direct the tension member along the article. The cover 540 is typically made of various polymer materials, such as a polycarbonate (PC) material, although various metals or other materials may be used as desired.

[0141] A method of attaching a guide to an article includes attaching an attachment arm to the article, such as the arm 520. The attachment arm typically includes a distal end that is attached to the article and a proximal end that is opposite the distal end. The method also includes attaching a guide body (e.g., guide 500) to the proximal end of the attachment arm to attach the guide body to the article. The guide body includes a front end, a rear end, opposing sides, and a channel that is formed in the guide body. The channel is shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable through the channel. The method may also include attaching a cover (e.g., cover 540) to the guide body and attachment arm such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body and attachment arm to conceal at least a portion of the guide body and attachment arm from external view. Attaching the cover to the guide body may include positioning a hood of the cover around the guide body such that a distally projecting tab or overhang of the hood is positioned underneath the guide body.

[0142] FIGS. 24A-C illustrate an embodiment of a smaller guide 600 that may be used with the decorative guide of FIGS. 22A-23F to route or direct a tension member along a path. The smaller guide may be customized similar to the decorative guide as desired. The smaller guide 600 includes a guide body having an upper surface, lower surface, opposing sides, and front and rear ends. In some instances, the upper surface may be customized to have an appearance similar to that of the decorative guide, such as by having a similar color scheme, decorative logo or pattern, texture, and the like.

[0143] A recess 606 is formed in the upper surface of the smaller guide 600. A thru hole 608 is positioned in the center of the recess 606 and is constructed so that a bolt or other mechanical fastener may be positioned through the thru hole 608 to couple or attach the smaller guide 600 to a surface of an article. The smaller guide 600 also includes a channel 602 formed in the guide 600 that is shaped and sized so that the tension member may be positioned within or insertable through the channel 602. The channel 602 is typically curved or arcuate in order to minimize frictional engagement of the tension member and smaller guide 600. The channel 602 directs the tension member into a thru hole 604 so that the tension member is able to be routed through the smaller guide 600. In some instances, the front end of the smaller guide 600 may have a cavity 610 or opening, which may aid in customizing the guide.

[0144] FIGS. 25A-C illustrates a terminal guide 620 that may be used with the decorative guide of FIGS. 22A-23F and / or the smaller guide 600 of FIGS. 24A-C. The terminal guide 620 is constructed to attach a distal end of the tension member to the article in order to anchor or affix the tension member to the article. The terminal guide 620 may be customized similar to the decorative guide and / or smaller guide as desired. The terminal guide 620 includes a guide body having an upper surface 624, lower surface, and front and rear ends. In some instances, the upper surface 624 may be customized to have an appearance similar to that of the decorative guide and / or smaller guide, such as by having a similar color scheme, decorative logo or pattern, texture, and the like. Tapering edges or sides of the upper surface 624 may likewise be customized as desired. In some instances, the upper surface 624 may be a cover that is positioned over a guide body. For example, the upper surface 624 may be a shell that is shaped and sized to correspond with an underlying guide body. The upper surface 624 may be fit over the guide body to cover and conceal the guide body from external view. In such instances, the upper surface 624 may be removably or non-removably attached to the underlying guide body.

[0145] A recess 622 is formed in the rear end of the terminal guide 620. A thru hole 623 is positioned in the recess 622 and is constructed so that a bolt or other mechanical fastener may be positioned through the thru hole 623 to couple or attach the terminal guide 620 to a surface of an article. The front end of the terminal guide 620 includes an opening 626 that provides access to a recess or channel 628 formed in the body of the terminal guide 620. The recess 628 is larger in shape and size than the opening 626 so that a fastening member, such as a crimp, clamp, or stud, may be fastened or affixed to the distal end of the tension member and positioned within the recess 628. The fastening member may engage the smaller opening 626 as the tension member is tensioned in a manner that prevents the tension member from being retracted through the opening 626. In this manner, the distal end of the tension member may be fixed or secured to the terminal guide 620 and to the article.

[0146] While several embodiments and arrangements of various components are described herein, it should be understood that the various components and / or combination of components described in the various embodiments may be modified, rearranged, changed, adjusted, and the like. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged and / or the various described components may be employed in any of the embodiments in which they are not currently described or employed. As such, it should be realized that the various embodiments are not limited to the specific arrangement and / or component structures described herein.

[0147] In addition, it is to be understood that any workable combination of the features and elements disclosed herein is also considered to be disclosed. Additionally, any time a feature is not discussed with regard in an embodiment in this disclosure, a person of skill in the art is hereby put on notice that some embodiments of the invention may implicitly and specifically exclude such features, thereby providing support for negative claim limitations.

[0148] Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, a number of well-known processes and elements have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Accordingly, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0149] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

[0150] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a process” includes a plurality of such processes and reference to “the device” includes reference to one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0151] Also, the words “comprise,”“comprising,”“include,”“including,” and “includes” when used in this specification and in the following claims are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups.

Claims

1. A guide for routing or directing a tension member about an article, the guide comprising:a guide body having:a front end;a rear end;opposing sides; anda channel formed in the guide body, the channel being shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable through the channel; andan attachment arm that is separate from the guide body, the attachment arm including:a distal end that is attachable to the article; anda proximal end that is coupled with the guide body to attach the guide body to the article.

2. The guide of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the attachment arm is shaped and sized so that the proximal end surrounds at least a portion of the guide body.

3. The guide of claim 2, wherein the attachment arm comprises a material strip, wherein the proximal end of the attachment arm is a looped end that is formed in the material strip, and wherein the guide body is positioned within the looped end of the material strip.

4. The guide of claim 3, wherein the opposing sides of the guide body extend laterally outward from the looped end of the material strip.

5. The guide of claim 1, wherein the guide further comprises a cover that is removably couplable with the guide body and attachment arm such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body and attachment arm to conceal at least a portion of the guide body and attachment arm from external view.

6. The guide of claim 5, wherein the cover includes a peripheral rib that defines a recess or pocket within at least a portion of the attachment arm is positioned when the cover is coupled with the attachment arm.

7. The guide of claim 5, wherein a proximal end of the cover includes a hood that is positioned around the guide body when the cover is coupled with the guide body.

8. The guide of claim 7, wherein, when the cover is coupled with the guide body, the hood curves or bends around the guide body and terminates in a distally projecting tab or overhang that is positioned underneath the guide body.

9. A guide for routing or directing a tension member about an article, the guide comprising:a guide body that is attachable to the article, the guide body having:a front end;a rear end;opposing sides; anda channel formed in the guide body, the channel being shaped and sized so that the tension member is insertable into the channel; anda cover that is removably couplable with the guide body such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body to conceal at least a portion of the guide body from external view.

10. The guide of claim 9, wherein the cover includes a hood that is positioned around the guide body when the cover is coupled with the guide body.

11. The guide of claim 10, wherein, when the cover is coupled with the guide body, the hood curves or bends around the guide body and terminates in a distally projecting tab or overhang that is positioned underneath the guide body.

12. The guide of claim 9, wherein the guide further comprises an attachment arm that is separate from the guide body, the attachment arm including:a distal end that is attachable to the article; anda proximal end that is coupled with the guide body to attach the guide body to the article.

13. The guide of claim 12, wherein the cover is removably couplable with the attachment arm such that the cover is positioned atop the attachment arm to conceal at least a portion of the attachment arm from external view.

14. The guide of claim 13, wherein the cover includes a peripheral rib that defines a recess or pocket within at least a portion of the attachment arm is positioned when the cover is coupled with the attachment arm.

15. The guide of claim 13, wherein the proximal end of the attachment arm is shaped and sized so that the proximal end surrounds at least a portion of the guide body.

16. The guide of claim 15, wherein the attachment arm comprises a material strip, wherein the proximal end of the attachment arm is a looped end that is formed in the material strip, and wherein the guide body is positioned within the looped end of the material strip.

17. The guide of claim 16, wherein the opposing sides of the guide body extend laterally outward from the looped end of the material strip.

18. A method of attaching a guide to an article, the method comprising:attaching an attachment arm to the article, the attachment arm including:a distal end that is attached to the article; anda proximal end that is opposite the distal end; andattaching a guide body to the proximal end of the attachment arm to attach the guide body to the article, the guide body having:a front end;a rear end;opposing sides; anda channel formed in the guide body, the channel being shaped and sized so that a tension member is insertable through the channel.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising attaching a cover to the guide body and attachment arm such that the cover is positioned atop the guide body and attachment arm to conceal at least a portion of the guide body and attachment arm from external view.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein attaching the cover to the guide body comprises positioning a hood of the cover around the guide body such that a distally projecting tab or overhang of the hood is positioned underneath the guide body.21.-76. (canceled)

Images