Support belt system for concealed carry holsters to work in conjunction with non-belt supporting clothing

Abstract

A support belt system for concealed carry holsters includes a rigid support belt with an adjustable buckle and hook and loop fastening material. Support belt clip assemblies are mounted on the support belt, each comprising rear support belt clip members through which the belt passes, a front support belt clip member, and a clothing retainer clip member with an angled portion. The spacing between the front support belt clip member and the clothing retainer clip member forms a clothing retaining area that receives and retains a garment waistband. The system allows users to carry concealed firearms using their existing clothing without requiring belt loops or specialized garments, with the belt and clothing moving together as a unified system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 781,626, filed Apr. 1, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to support belts, and more particularly to a support belt system designed to work in conjunction with clothing that lacks traditional belt loops or adequate structural support for carrying a concealed firearm and holster.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] An increasing number of people wear clothing styles that do not support the use of a traditional belt to carry a holster and firearm. Athletic wear, casual pants, and many modern clothing designs either lack belt loops entirely or have belt loops insufficient to support the weight and positioning requirements of concealed carry. This limits the ability of individuals to carry a firearm in situations where they may desire to do so, forcing them to choose between their clothing preferences and their personal safety needs.

[0004] Conventional solutions to this problem suffer from significant drawbacks. Some systems require the purchase of specialized clothing with interior belt loops or reinforced waistbands, which represents a substantial additional expense and limits the user's clothing options. Other conventional belts are designed to be worn without affixing to the pants, but these belts tend to separate from the waistband during movement, causing discomfort and potentially dangerous shifting of the firearm's position.

[0005] Belts that do not require specialized clothing typically possess no means to affix to the user's pants. This means the belt and the waistband separate during movement, which can be uncomfortable and may result in the firearm moving to an undesired location on the waistline. Conversely, belts that work with specialized clothing require the user to spend extra money on specific garments instead of utilizing clothing they already possess.

[0006] Therefore, there exists a need for a support belt system that can securely affix to standard, non-specialized clothing without requiring belt loops, that moves with the clothing during activity, and that provides stable support for concealed carry holsters and firearms.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention addresses the above-described needs by providing a support belt system that affixes directly to a user's existing pants or shorts without requiring belt loops or specialized clothing. The support belt system comprises a belt with integrated clips that engage the waistband of the clothing, causing the belt and clothing to move together as a unified system.

[0008] In one aspect, the present invention provides a support belt system comprising: a support belt having a first end and a second end; a support belt buckle attached to the first end of the support belt, wherein the support belt buckle is configured to receive and secure the second end of the support belt; hook and loop fastening material attached to the support belt and configured to secure the support belt in a tightened configuration; and at least one support belt clip assembly attached to the support belt, wherein each support belt clip assembly comprises a front support belt clip member attached to the support belt, and a clothing retainer clip member spaced apart from the front support belt clip member to form a clothing retaining area configured to receive and retain a waistband of a garment.

[0009] In another aspect, the clothing retainer clip member comprises an angled portion that facilitates insertion of the waistband into the clothing retaining area.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the support belt clip assembly further comprises rear support belt clip members that form a gap through which the support belt passes, thereby securing the support belt clip assembly to the support belt.

[0011] In a further aspect, the support belt is formed from a rigid nylon material having sufficient rigidity to support the weight of a holster and firearm.

[0012] In still another aspect, multiple support belt clip assemblies are attached to the support belt at spaced intervals to distribute the load of the holster and firearm.

[0013] The support belt system of the present invention provides several advantages over the prior art. It does not require the purchase of specialized clothing or any secondary products. It affixes to already-owned pants or shorts and moves with the clothing, which is safer and more comfortable than conventional belts. The integrated clip system prevents separation between the belt and waistband during movement, maintaining the firearm in a consistent position on the waistline.

[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a support belt system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing the support belt with attached clips and fastening components;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a front view of a support belt clip assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing the front support belt clip member, clothing retainer clip member, and the clothing retaining area; and

[0018] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a support belt clip assembly taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0020] The following detailed description describes exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.

[0021] As used herein, the terms “comprising,”“including,”“having,” and similar terms are intended to be open-ended, meaning that additional elements or steps may be present.

[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.Overview

[0023] The present invention provides a support belt system 100 designed to work in conjunction with clothing that lacks traditional belt support structures. The support belt system 100 enables users to carry a concealed firearm and holster using their existing clothing without requiring specialized garments or belt loops. The system achieves this by providing a support belt 12 that incorporates specialized clips 10 which affix directly to the waistband of the user's pants or shorts.Structural Components

[0024] Referring to FIG. 1, the support belt system 100 comprises several primary components that work together to provide secure, comfortable support for concealed carry. The support belt 12 forms the foundation of the system and is preferably constructed from rigid nylon or similar durable, semi-rigid material capable of supporting the weight of a holster and firearm without excessive flexing or sagging. The support belt 12 has sufficient width to distribute the load comfortably across the user's waistline, typically in the range of 1.25 to 1.75 inches in width, though other dimensions may be suitable depending on the application.

[0025] A support belt buckle 30 is attached to a first end of the support belt 12. The support belt buckle 30 is configured to receive and secure a second end of the support belt 12, allowing the user to adjust the circumference of the support belt 12 to fit their waist. The support belt buckle 30 may comprise a pass-through style buckle, friction buckle, or other suitable fastening mechanism that allows for incremental adjustment and secure retention of the belt material.

[0026] Hook and loop fastening material 14 is attached to the support belt 12, preferably sewn or otherwise permanently affixed to the belt material. The hook and loop fastening material 14 is positioned such that when the support belt 12 is threaded through the support belt buckle 30 and tightened around the user's waist, corresponding portions of the hook and loop fastening material 14 align and engage with each other. This engagement secures the support belt 12 in its tightened configuration and prevents loosening during use.Support Belt Clip Assembly

[0027] A key innovative feature of the present invention is the support belt clip assembly, designated generally as support belt clips 10. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, each support belt clip comprises multiple components that work together to secure the support belt 12 to the user's clothing.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, each support belt clip assembly 10 includes rear support belt clip members 22 and 24. The rear support belt clip members 22 and 24 are spaced apart from each other to form a gap 42 through which the support belt 12 passes. This configuration allows the support belt clip assembly to be slidably mounted on the support belt 12 while maintaining a secure connection. The rear support belt clip members 22 and 24 may be formed as extensions or walls of a clip body, creating a channel or slot that accommodates the width of the support belt 12.

[0029] A front support belt clip member 28 extends away from the rear support belt clip members 22, 24 in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the support belt 12. The front support belt clip member 28 is rigidly connected to the rear support belt clip members 22, 24, forming a unified generally C-shaped clip structure. The front support belt clip member 28 serves as one boundary of the clothing retention mechanism as well as one boundary of the chamber holding the support belt 12 (see FIG. 3, by way of example).

[0030] A clothing retainer clip member 26 is positioned parallel to and spaced apart from the front support belt clip member 28. The spacing between the front support belt clip member 28 and the clothing retainer clip member 26 creates a clothing retaining area 40. The clothing retaining area 40 is dimensioned to receive and retain the waistband of a garment, such as pants or shorts. The width of the clothing retaining area 40 is preferably sufficient to accommodate typical waistband thicknesses while maintaining secure grip, typically ranging from approximately 0.125 to 0.375 inches, though this may vary depending on the specific garment materials and construction.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the clothing retainer clip member 26 includes an angled portion 32. The angled portion 32 facilitates insertion of the garment waistband into the clothing retaining area 40. When the user positions their waistband into the clothing retaining area 40, the angled portion 32 helps guide the fabric into position and helps prevent snagging or bunching of the material. Once the waistband is fully inserted, the clothing retainer clip member 26 applies tension to maintain the waistband securely within the clothing retaining area 40.

[0032] The support belt clips 10 are preferably constructed from durable plastic material, such as polycarbonate, ABS plastic, or similar polymers that provide a balance of strength, flexibility, and wear resistance. The clip material should be sufficiently rigid to maintain its shape under load while possessing enough flexibility to allow insertion and removal of the garment waistband without breaking.Assembly and Configuration

[0033] The support belt system 100 is assembled by attaching the support belt buckle 30 to the first end of the support belt 12. The hook and loop fastening material 14 is affixed to the support belt 12 in positions that will align when the belt is worn and tightened. One or more support belt clip assemblies are mounted on the support belt 12 by threading the belt through the gaps 42 formed by the rear support belt clip members 22 and 24.

[0034] The number and positioning of support belt clip assemblies can be varied depending on the user's needs and the weight of the firearm and holster to be carried. For lighter firearms, a single support belt clip assembly may be sufficient. For heavier firearms or larger user waist sizes, multiple support belt clip assemblies may be positioned at spaced intervals along the support belt 12 to distribute the load and provide enhanced stability.

[0035] In one embodiment, two support belt clip assemblies are positioned on the support belt 12 at locations corresponding to the anticipated position of the holster. This dual-clip configuration provides balanced support and prevents tilting or shifting of the holster during movement.Method of Use

[0036] The support belt system 100 is used as follows. The user first rolls down the waistband of their pants or shorts to expose the exterior surface of the waistband. The user then positions the support belt 12 around their waist at the desired height and threads the second end of the support belt 12 through the support belt buckle 30. The user pulls the second end to tighten the support belt 12 to a comfortable, secure fit around their waist.

[0037] Once the support belt 12 is tightened, the user engages the hook and loop fastening material 14 to secure the belt in its tightened configuration. This prevents the belt from loosening during subsequent steps or during wear.

[0038] The user then rolls or pulls the waistband of their pants or shorts upward while simultaneously guiding the waistband into the clothing retaining areas 40 of the support belt clips 10. The angled portions 32 of the clothing retainer clip members 26 facilitate smooth insertion of the waistband material. The user continues positioning the waistband upward until the pants or shorts are at their normal wearing position.

[0039] At this point, the support belt system 100 is fully engaged. The support belt 12 is securely fastened around the user's waist, and the waistband of the pants or shorts is retained within the clothing retaining areas 40 of the support belt clips 10. This creates a unified system in which the support belt 12 and the clothing move together as one unit.

[0040] The user can then attach their holster to the support belt 12 using the holster's normal attachment mechanism, whether clips, loops, or other fastening means. The support belt 12 provides a rigid platform that supports the weight of the holster and firearm, while the support belt clips 10 ensure that the belt and clothing move together, preventing separation during movement.Advantages and Operation

[0041] The support belt system 100 provides several significant advantages over prior art solutions. Because the support belt clips 10 physically engage the waistband of the user's clothing, the support belt 12 and the clothing move together during all activities. This prevents the uncomfortable and potentially dangerous separation that occurs with conventional belts that are not attached to the clothing.The Integration of the Support Belt 12 With the Clothing Also Enhances Stability of the

[0042] carried firearm. During vigorous movement, walking, bending, or other activities, the holster and firearm remain in a consistent position relative to the user's body. This consistency is important for both comfort and accessibility.

[0043] Unlike systems that require specialized clothing with interior belt loops or reinforced structures, the support belt system 100 works with any existing pants or shorts that have a waistband. This eliminates the need for users to purchase expensive specialized garments and allows them to use their preferred clothing styles while maintaining concealed carry capability.

[0044] The adjustability of the support belt 12 via the support belt buckle 30, combined with the secure retention provided by the hook and loop fastening material 14, ensures a consistent fit that does not loosen over time. The support belt clips 10 can be positioned as needed along the length of the support belt 12, allowing customization for different body types and carry positions.Alternative Embodiments

[0045] While the preferred embodiment utilizes support belt clips 10 with the described configuration, alternative clip designs may be employed. For example, the clothing retainer clip member 26 could incorporate a spring-loaded mechanism to provide adjustable tension. The angled portion 32 could be configured with different angles or curves to accommodate different fabric thicknesses or facilitate easier insertion.

[0046] The support belt 12 may be constructed from alternative materials, such as leather, reinforced fabric webbing, or composite materials, provided these materials offer sufficient rigidity to support the intended load. The width and thickness of the support belt 12 may be varied to suit different applications or user preferences.The Support Belt Buckle 30 May Take Various Forms, Including Traditional Belt Buckles,

[0047] quick-release buckles, or other fastening mechanisms known in the art. Similarly, the hook and loop fastening material 14 could be supplemented or replaced with alternative fastening systems, such as snap fasteners, magnetic closures, or friction fasteners.

[0048] In one alternative embodiment, the support belt clips 10 can be removably attached to the support belt 12, allowing the user to configure the system for use with traditional belted pants (with the clips removed) or non-belted clothing (with the clips installed).

[0049] Multiple support belt clip assemblies may be provided with different configurations or sizes to accommodate different garment types or waistband thicknesses. Users could select and install the appropriate clips for their specific clothing.

[0050] It should be understood that the foregoing description relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. The invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, but those skilled in the art will recognize that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the principles of the invention.

Claims

1. A support belt system comprising:a support belt having a first end and a second end;a support belt buckle attached to the first end of the support belt, wherein the support belt buckle is configured to receive and secure the second end of the support belt;hook and loop fastening material attached to the support belt and configured to secure the support belt in a tightened configuration; andat least one support belt clip assembly attached to the support belt, wherein each support belt clip assembly comprises:a front support belt clip member attached to the support belt; anda clothing retainer clip member spaced apart from the front support belt clip member to form a clothing retaining area configured to receive and retain a waistband of a garment.

2. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the clothing retainer clip member comprises an angled portion configured to facilitate insertion of the waistband into the clothing retaining area.

3. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein each support belt clip assembly further comprises rear support belt clip members that form a gap through which the support belt passes.

4. The support belt system of claim 3, wherein the rear support belt clip members comprise a first rear support belt clip member and a second rear support belt clip member spaced apart from each other to form the gap.

5. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the support belt is formed from a rigid nylon material.

6. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the support belt has sufficient rigidity to support a weight of a holster and firearm without excessive flexing.

7. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the support belt system comprises a plurality of support belt clip assemblies positioned at spaced intervals along the support belt.

8. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the support belt clip assembly is constructed from plastic material.

9. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the clothing retaining area has a width dimensioned to accommodate a waistband thickness of standard garments while maintaining secure grip.

10. The support belt system of claim 1, wherein the support belt has a width in a range of 1.25 to 1.75 inches.

11. A support belt system for concealed carry comprising:a rigid support belt having a first end and a second end and sufficient rigidity to support a holster and firearm;a support belt buckle attached to the first end of the support belt;hook and loop fastening material attached to the support belt; anda plurality of support belt clip assemblies mounted on the support belt, wherein each support belt clip assembly comprises:rear support belt clip members forming a gap through which the support belt passes;a front support belt clip member extending from the rear support belt clip members; anda clothing retainer clip member having an angled portion and spaced apart from the front support belt clip member to form a clothing retaining area.

12. The support belt system of claim 11, wherein the plurality of support belt clip assemblies are positioned at locations corresponding to an anticipated holster position.

13. The support belt system of claim 11, wherein the support belt is formed from rigid nylon material.

14. The support belt system of claim 11, wherein the support belt clip assemblies are slidably mounted on the support belt.

15. A support belt clip assembly for securing a support belt to a garment, the support belt clip assembly comprising:a pair of rear support belt clip members spaced apart from each other to form a gap configured to receive a support belt;a front support belt clip member extending from the rear support belt clip members in a direction generally perpendicular to the gap; anda clothing retainer clip member spaced apart from the front support belt clip member to form a clothing retaining area configured to receive and retain a waistband of a garment,whereby the support belt clip assembly secures the support belt to the garment by retaining the waistband between the front support belt clip member and the clothing retainer clip member.

16. The support belt clip assembly of claim 15, wherein the clothing retainer clip member comprises an angled portion configured to guide the waistband into the clothing retaining area.

17. The support belt clip assembly of claim 16, wherein the angled portion is positioned at an entry end of the clothing retaining area.

18. The support belt clip assembly of claim 15, wherein the clothing retaining area has a width in a range of approximately 0.125 to 0.375 inches.

19. The support belt clip assembly of claim 15, wherein the rear support belt clip members comprise a first rear support belt clip member and a second rear support belt clip member.

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