Protective Foot Sleeve Device

Abstract

A protective foot sleeve device is provided. The device is designed to provide a temporary waterproof and thermally insulated barrier for a user's foot and footwear in adverse weather conditions. The device comprises a body configured to accommodate various foot anatomies and to extend over the ankle or lower calf, the body comprising an outer layer formed from thermoplastic polyurethane for waterproofing and durability, and an inner layer formed from neoprene for thermal insulation and moisture-wicking. The body may further comprise an insole-receiving pocket configured to retain an insole removed from the user's footwear, wherein the pocket may include a closure mechanism to secure the insole and prevent water ingress. The device also comprises an elastic or drawstring cuff configured to encircle the user's ankle or lower calf, thereby minimizing the entry of water or debris.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 764,062, which was filed on February 27, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of foot coverings. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device designed to provide a temporary waterproof and thermally insulated barrier for a user's foot and footwear in adverse weather conditions. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] Delivery drivers and outdoor workers are frequently exposed to adverse weather conditions, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures. Their work requires prolonged periods spent walking or standing outdoors, which increases the likelihood of their footwear becoming wet. Water ingress into shoes or boots leads to wet insoles and feet, causing discomfort, reduced thermal insulation, and potential health risks such as frostbite or trench foot in extreme cases. Traditional footwear often lacks sufficient waterproofing or thermal protection, especially in areas prone to leakage, such as seams or around the tongue. Additionally, once the insoles or interior of the footwear become wet, they can take a significant amount of time to dry, leaving individuals uncomfortable throughout their work shifts. This discomfort can hinder mobility, reduce productivity, and contribute to long-term foot problems. The need for an efficient, temporary, and easily deployable solution that protects the feet from moisture and cold, while accommodating various footwear types, has been a persistent issue for individuals in these professions.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that prevents water ingress into footwear during cold and inclement weather. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that allows users to insert and secure their insoles within a waterproof barrier to maintain foot comfort. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that provides temporary and adaptable protection suitable for use inside a variety of footwear types.

[0005] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a protective foot sleeve device. The device is designed to provide a temporary waterproof and thermally insulated barrier for a user's foot and footwear in adverse weather conditions. The device comprises a body configured to accommodate various foot anatomies and to extend over the ankle or lower calf, the body comprising an outer layer formed from thermoplastic polyurethane for waterproofing and durability, and an inner layer formed from neoprene for thermal insulation and moisture-wicking. The body may further comprise an insole-receiving pocket configured to retain an insole removed from the user's footwear, wherein the pocket may include a closure mechanism to secure the insole and prevent water ingress. The device also comprises an elastic or drawstring cuff configured to encircle the user's ankle or lower calf, thereby minimizing the entry of water or debris. External grip elements may be disposed on the outer surface of the body to enhance stability and reduce slippage within the footwear. An optional insulating mid-layer may be provided between the outer and inner layers to further enhance thermal protection.

[0006] In this manner, the protective foot sleeve device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a device that can be worn that prevents water ingress into footwear, thereby maintaining dry and comfortable feet for delivery drivers and outdoor workers. The insole-receiving pocket with its secure closure ensures that insoles remain protected from moisture while allowing easy removal and reinsertion into the footwear. The adaptable design of the body, including the cuff and external grip elements, allows the device to be used temporarily inside a wide range of footwear, offering both secure fit and enhanced user mobility. The combination of waterproof materials, thermal insulation, and moisture management features addresses the persistent problems caused by wet and cold conditions, offering a practical and immediate solution for individuals exposed to harsh weather during their occupational duties.SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a protective foot sleeve device. The protective foot sleeve device is designed to provide temporary protection against moisture and cold, maintaining thermal comfort for users such as delivery drivers or outdoor workers in inclement weather. The device is comprised of a body adaptable to various foot anatomies, extending over the ankle or lower calf. The body may be comprised of a multi-layered construction for durability, comfort, and environmental resistance. More specifically, the outer layer may be comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane, offering flexibility, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, waterproofing, and resistance to cold cracking. The inner layer may be comprised of neoprene, providing thermal insulation and moisture-wicking properties. In one embodiment, the body is further comprised of an insulating mid-layer between the outer and inner layers, comprised of materials such as closed-cell foam, fleece, or synthetic fibers for enhanced thermal protection.

[0009] The interior of the body may be comprised of an insole-receiving pocket configured to hold a removed insole, secured by a closure mechanism such as a zipper, magnetic fastener, hook and loop fastener, or adhesive strip to prevent displacement and moisture ingress.

[0010] The body is further comprised of an elastic or drawstring cuff configured to fit securely around the ankle or lower calf, minimizing the entry of water, snow, or debris while maintaining comfort.

[0011] The body may also be comprised of external grip elements configured to enhance stability inside footwear. These grip elements may be comprised of rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomers in textured or raised forms to reduce slippage.

[0012] The device is used by placing a removed insole into the insole-receiving pocket, securing it with the closure mechanism, inserting the foot into the body, adjusting the cuff for a secure fit, and wearing the device within footwear for protection and insulation.

[0013] Accordingly, the protective foot sleeve device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device that can be worn that prevents water ingress into footwear, thereby maintaining dry and comfortable feet for delivery drivers and outdoor workers. The insole-receiving pocket with its secure closure ensures that insoles remain protected from moisture while allowing easy removal and reinsertion into the footwear. The adaptable design of the body, including the cuff and external grip elements, allows the device to be used temporarily inside a wide range of footwear, offering both secure fit and enhanced user mobility. The combination of waterproof materials, thermal insulation, and moisture management features addresses the persistent problems caused by wet and cold conditions, offering a practical and immediate solution for individuals exposed to harsh weather during their occupational duties.

[0014] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of one potential embodiment of a protective foot sleeve device of the present invention while an insole is inside a pocket of the device in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of layers of one potential embodiment of a protective foot sleeve device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a protective foot sleeve device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0020] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that prevents water ingress into footwear during cold and inclement weather. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that allows users to insert and secure their insoles within a waterproof barrier to maintain foot comfort. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a protective foot sleeve device that provides temporary and adaptable protection suitable for use inside a variety of footwear types.

[0021] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a protective foot sleeve device. The protective foot sleeve device is designed to provide temporary protection from moisture and cold, maintaining thermal comfort for users such as delivery drivers or outdoor workers in adverse weather conditions. The device is comprised of a body adaptable to various foot anatomies, extending over the ankle or lower calf. The body may be comprised of a multi-layered construction to provide durability, comfort, and resistance to environmental factors. The outer layer may be comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane, providing flexibility, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, waterproofing, and resistance to cracking in cold conditions. The inner layer may be comprised of neoprene, offering thermal insulation and moisture-wicking properties. In one embodiment, the body is further comprised of an insulating mid-layer positioned between the outer and inner layers, comprised of materials such as closed-cell foam, fleece, or synthetic fibers for additional thermal protection.

[0022] The interior of the body may be comprised of an insole-receiving pocket configured to hold a removed insole, secured by a closure mechanism such as a zipper, magnetic fastener, hook and loop fastener, or adhesive strip to prevent displacement and moisture ingress.

[0023] The body is further comprised of an elastic or drawstring cuff configured to fit securely around the ankle or lower calf, reducing the entry of water, snow, or debris while maintaining user comfort.

[0024] The body may also be comprised of external grip elements configured to improve stability inside footwear. These grip elements may be comprised of rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomers in textured or raised patterns to minimize slippage.

[0025] The device is used by placing a removed insole into the insole-receiving pocket, securing it with the closure mechanism, inserting the foot into the body, adjusting the cuff for a secure fit, and wearing the device within footwear for protection and insulation.

[0026] As a result, the protective foot sleeve device provides a solution that prevents water ingress into footwear, maintaining dry and comfortable feet for delivery drivers and outdoor workers. The insole-receiving pocket with its closure ensures that insoles remain protected from moisture while allowing easy removal and reinsertion into footwear. The adaptable design of the body, including the cuff and external grip elements, enables temporary use inside a wide range of footwear, offering a secure fit and improved mobility. The combination of waterproof materials, thermal insulation, and moisture management addresses challenges caused by wet and cold conditions, delivering a practical solution for individuals exposed to harsh weather during occupational activities.

[0027] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of one potential embodiment of a protective foot sleeve device 100 of the present invention while an insole 102 is inside a pocket 108 of the device 100 in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The protective foot sleeve device 100 is designed to provide users with a protective footwear solution configured to prevent water ingress and maintain thermal comfort by limiting exposure to moisture and cold environments. The device 100 is particularly suitable for temporary use by individuals such as delivery drivers or outdoor workers who require rapid, effective protection for their feet and footwear in cold and / or inclement weather conditions.

[0028] The device 100 is comprised of a body 104. The body 104 may be configured in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different foot anatomies and may extend partially or fully over the ankle and lower calf. The body 104 may be comprised of a multi-layered construction configured to provide enhanced durability, user comfort, and resistance to environmental factors such as water, cold, and wear.

[0029] In one embodiment, the body 104 is comprised of an outer layer 106, which may be comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. The TPU outer layer 106 may be characterized by its flexibility, high tensile strength, abrasion resistance, waterproof characteristics, and resistance to cold-induced cracking, making it suitable for outdoor conditions.

[0030] The body 104 may further be comprised of an inner layer 118, as seen in FIG. 2. In one embodiment, the inner layer 118 is comprised of neoprene material, which may provide thermal insulation and moisture-wicking capability.

[0031] In one embodiment, the interior of the body 104 is comprised of at least one insole-receiving pocket 108. The pocket 108 may be configured to securely house the insole 102, which has been removed from the user’s footwear. The pocket 108 may be comprised of a closure mechanism 110 such as, but not limited to, a zipper, magnetic fastener, hook and loop fastener, or pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, configured to retain the insole 102 in a fixed position and prevent displacement during use. The closure mechanism 110 may also function to limit the ingress of moisture into the pocket 108.

[0032] In one embodiment, the body 104 is comprised of an elastic and / or drawstring cuff 112. The elastic cuff 112 may be configured to encircle the lower calf or ankle of the user, providing a secure and conforming fit. The cuff 112 may be designed to minimize the entry of water, snow, or debris into the interior of the device 100, while maintaining user comfort through stretchable material properties.

[0033] In one embodiment, the body 104 is comprised of external grip elements 114. The grip elements 114 may be configured to enhance the stability of the device 100 when worn inside a shoe, boot, or similar footwear. The grip elements 114 may be in the form of textured patterns, raised ridges, or molded rubberized structures applied to the exterior surface of the body 104, particularly on the lower regions that interface with the interior of the user’s footwear. The grip elements 114 may be comprised of a non-slip material such as, but not limited to, rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomers, and may serve to reduce internal slippage and enhance traction.

[0034] In one embodiment, the body 104 is comprised of one-way ventilation valves 116. The ventilation valves 116 may be configured to allow moisture vapor generated from within the device 100 to escape, while simultaneously preventing external water ingress. The one-way ventilation valves 116 may be positioned strategically along the body 104 to facilitate efficient moisture management without compromising waterproof integrity.

[0035] In an alternative embodiment, the body 104 may be further comprised of an insulating mid-layer 120 positioned between the outer layer 106 and inner layer 118. The insulating mid-layer 120 may be comprised of materials such as, but not limited to, closed-cell foam, fleece, or synthetic insulation fibers, providing additional thermal protection for extended exposure to cold environments.

[0036] The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a body 104, the body 104 being comprised of at least one outer layer 106, at least one inner layer 118, and at least one cuff 112 [Step 202]. Then, the insole 102 can be removed from the user’s footwear and placed within the device 100, or within the insole-receiving pocket 108 of the body 104 in one embodiment, wherein the closure mechanism 110 can be engaged to retain the insole 102 in place and prevent displacement [Step 204]. Next, the user can insert their foot into the body 104 such that the insole 102 supports the underside of the foot and the body 104 encloses the foot and at least part of the ankle or lower calf [Step 206]. Then, the cuff 112 can be adjusted to provide a secure and conforming fit around the ankle or lower calf, thereby minimizing ingress of water, snow, or debris [Step 208]. Finally, the body 104 can be worn within a shoe, boot, or similar footwear to protect and insulate a user’s foot [Step 210].

[0037] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “protective foot sleeve device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the protective foot sleeve device 100 of the present invention.

[0038] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the protective foot sleeve device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the protective foot sleeve device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the protective foot sleeve device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the protective foot sleeve device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the protective foot sleeve device 100 may be of any size, shape, and / or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user’s needs and / or preferences.

[0039] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0040] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A protective foot sleeve device comprising: a body comprised of: an outer layer;an inner layer;a pocket; anda cuff.

2. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1, wherein the cuff is comprised of an elastic cuff.

3. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1, wherein the cuff is comprised of a drawstring cuff.

4. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1, wherein the outer layer is comprised of a waterproof layer.

5. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a moisture-wicking layer.

6. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1 further comprised of a mid-layer between the outer layer and the inner layer.

7. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 6, wherein the mid-layer is comprised of an insulating material.

8. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 1, wherein the body is further comprised of a one-way ventilation valve.

9. A protective foot sleeve device comprising: a body comprised of: an outer layer;an inner layer;a grip element;a pocket; anda cuff.

10. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the pocket is comprised of a closure mechanism.

11. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the cuff is comprised of an elastic cuff.

12. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the cuff is comprised of a drawstring cuff.

13. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the outer layer is comprised of a waterproof layer.

14. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a moisture-wicking layer.

15. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9 further comprised of a mid-layer between the outer layer and the inner layer.

16. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 15, wherein the mid-layer is comprised of an insulating material.

17. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the body is further comprised of a one-way ventilation valve.

18. The protective foot sleeve device of claim 9, wherein the grip element is comprised of a non-slip material.

19. A method of using a protective foot sleeve device, the method comprising the following steps:providing a protective foot sleeve device comprised of a body, the body comprising an outer layer, an inner layer, a pocket, and a cuff;removing an insole from a user’s footwear and placing the insole within the body;inserting a user’s foot into the body such that the insole supports the user’s foot and the body encloses the user’s foot;adjusting the cuff to provide a secure fit; andwearing the body within a piece of footwear to protect and insulate the user’s foot.

20. The method of using a protective foot sleeve device of claim 19 further comprised of a step of placing an insole in a pocket of the body.

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