Support device and leg pad for a goalkeeper in ice sports or roller sports

Abstract

The support device (1) for supporting the thigh (30) of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports is configured to be removably attached to a goalkeeper's leg pad (10) or to form an integral part of a goalkeeper's leg pad (10) and comprises at least one attachment portion (2, 3) configured for attaching the support device (1) to the leg pad (10), and a thigh support portion (4), wherein the support device (1) is configured such that when in use, a supporting force exerted via the thigh support portion (4) on the thigh (30) of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle (α) between the leg (31) and the thigh (30).

Description

[0001] Support device and leg pad for a goalkeeper in ice sports or roller sports

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The present invention concerns a support device for supporting the thigh of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports, as defined in claim 1 , and the use of such a support device. The invention further concerns a goalkeeper’s leg pad for ice sports or roller sports and the use of such a leg pad.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] In ice hockey, so called butterfly style has become a very commonly used technique among goaltenders. Goaltenders using the butterfly style often drop to their knees and spread their legs to the sides to block the lower part of the goal. The arms are spread to block and catch shots aimed at upper parts of the goal. While the butterfly style has been found to be a very effective technique, it is also very challenging and straining for the goaltenders. In a butterfly save position, the joints of the knees and hips of the goaltender are often bent to extreme positions. This causes discomfort and also exposes the goaltender to stress injuries, in particular of the hip. During a single ice hockey game, the goaltender may drop to the knees tens of times. During training, the number of saves and thus the time spent in the butterfly position is even greater. The goaltenders’ training and playing is thus very wearing and may lead to stress injuries that may cause a need for medical rehabilitation and even surgery. In the worst case, the stress injuries may even end the career of a goaltender.

[0006] Similar save techniques can also be used by the goaltenders in other ice sports, such as ringette or rinkball, and in roller sports, such as inline hockey. Also in those sports the goaltenders are thus exposed to the discomfort and injury risk associated with the butterfly style.

[0007] Summary of the invention

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a support device for supporting the thigh of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports. Other objects of the invention are to provide an improved goalkeeper’s leg pad for ice sports or roller sports. Further objects of the invention are to provide uses of said support device and leg pad. A support device according to the invention is configured to be removably attached to a goalkeeper’s leg pad or to form an integral part of a goalkeeper’s leg pad, the support device comprising at least one attachment portion configured for attaching the support device to the leg pad, and a thigh support portion, wherein the support device is configured such that when in use, a supporting force exerted via the thigh support portion on the thigh of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle between the leg and the thigh.

[0009] Another support device according to the invention has a lower end and an upper end, the lower end of the support device being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s leg pad and the upper end being configured to be connected to a goalkeeper’s knee guard or to the thigh of the goalkeeper, wherein the support device is configured such that when in use, a supporting force acting via the support device helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle between the leg and the thigh.

[0010] A goalkeeper’s leg pad according to the invention comprises a support device defined above and / or attachment means for removably attaching a support device defined above to the leg pad.

[0011] Another goalkeeper’s leg pad according to the invention comprises attachment means for connecting the lower end of a support device defined above to the leg pad.

[0012] A goalkeeper’s knee guard according to the invention comprises attachment means for attaching a support device defined above to the knee guard.

[0013] According to the invention, the support devices, the leg pads and the knee guard can be used in ice sports, such as ice hockey, and / or in roller sports.

[0014] The support devices according to the invention help the goalkeeper to keep the hip higher up and in a more forward position than without the support device. The hip is also maintained in a better angle relative to the thighs. Also the skates of the goalkeeper are kept in a more comfortable and less straining position. The support devices further help the goalkeeper to maintain a more balanced position and reduces the effort needed for maintaining the butterfly position. As a result of the above-mentioned effects, the strain caused by training and playing is reduced and the risk of strain injuries is reduced. The support devices according to the invention are configured to cooperate with the leg pad. Similarly, the leg pads according to the invention are configured to cooperate with the support device. However, the support device could be configured to be attached to a standard leg pad. The support device and the leg pad can form an assembly configured to support the thigh of the goalkeeper in the butterfly position. The support device and / or an upper end of the support device can be configured to be used with standard knee guards or with knee guards configured for use with the support device. The support device can also be used without a knee guard. The support device and the knee guard can form an assembly configured to support the thigh of the goalkeeper in the butterfly position, when used with a leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with attachment means for the support device, or the leg pad can be a standard leg pad and the support device can be provided with attachment means. The support device, the leg pad and the knee guard can form an assembly. The support device can be integrated to the leg pad and / or to the knee guard. However, it can also be a separate device that can be attached to any leg pad that is provided with suitable attachment means, or even to a standard leg pad. The support device can also be used in retrofit solutions. A leg pad could be modified by adding suitable attachment means for the support device according to the invention. Also a knee guard could be modified by adding suitable attachment means for the support device according to the invention. Alternatively, the support device can be provided with attachment means allowing it to be attached to a standard leg pad. The support device could also be attached to a leg pad using separate attachment means, such as straps.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device comprises an arm having a lower end and an upper end, and a curved support portion arranged at the upper end of the arm and configured to contact the back and sides of the goalkeeper’s thigh. The arm of the support device can be straight or have any other suitable shape. A support device with a curved support portion can be supported directly against the thigh of the goalkeeper, and can be used without a knee guard or with a standard knee guard. However, the support portion could also be configured to be attached to a knee guard, or it could be part of a knee guard. The support portion is thus not an essential feature of the support device. According to an embodiment of the invention, the arm is configured to be pivotable and, optionally, moveable relative to the leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with a fixed attachment point, and the support device can pivot, at least to a certain extent, about the attachment point. The lower end of the arm of the support device can thus be configured to be pivotably connected to the leg pad. The leg pad can be provided with attachment means allowing the lower end of the support device to move relative to the leg pad within predetermined limits. The leg pad does thus not have a fixed attachment point, but an attachment area or a moveable attachment point allowing limited movement of the support device. The lower end of the arm can be provided with attachment means configured to cooperate with the respective attachment means of the leg pad. Alternatively, the arm can be pivotable about an attachment point that is part of the support device. The lower end of the arm of the support device can thus be pivotably connected to an attachment point of the support device. The lower end of the support device can be configured to be attached non- moveably to the leg pad.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the invention, the length of the support device is adjustable. For example, the length of the arm can be adjustable. By adjusting the length of the support device, the position to which the support device guides the thigh of the goalkeeper can be adjusted. This allows the goalkeeper to adapt the support device according to his or her personal needs and preferences.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device comprises a first attachment portion that is configured for attaching the support device to the leg pad on the medial side of the leg pad. The medial side of the leg pad refers here to that part of the leg pad that is located on the medial side of the longitudinal center line of leg pad.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the invention, the first attachment portion is configured for attaching the support device to a pad of a leg channel of the leg pad, to a landing pad and / or to a pad arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad below the landing pad.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device comprises a second attachment portion for attaching the support device to the leg pad on the lateral side of the leg pad. The lateral side of the leg pad refers here to that part of the leg pad that is located on the lateral side of the longitudinal center line of leg pad.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the invention, the second attachment portion is configured for attaching the support device to a pad of a leg channel of the leg pad.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured to extend, when in use, behind the leg of the goalkeeper from the medial side of the leg pad to the lateral side of the leg pad. The medial side of the leg pad refers here to that part of the leg pad that is located on the medial side of the longitudinal center line of leg pad. The lateral side of the leg pad refers here to that part of the leg pad that is located on the lateral side of the longitudinal center line of leg pad.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured such that the thigh support portion contacts the thigh of the goalkeeper in a butterfly position.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is provided with attachment means for attaching the support device to the leg pad.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means are configured to allow the support device to be attached to at least two alternative positions in the leg pad. This allows the position of the support device to be optimized for each user.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means are configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means comprise hook and loop fasteners.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means comprise a plate that is configured to be inserted between parts of a landing pad of the leg pad. Many leg pads are provided with landing pads comprising two or more parts that are detachably attached to each other, for instance using hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners. Such leg pads can typically be modified by the goalkeeper by adding or removing parts. A plate that is insertable between the parts of the landing pad may allow the support device to be used with a standard leg pad without a need to modify the leg pad. Also, the support device can be attached to the leg pad without a need to use attachment means extending to the side of the leg pad that faces the ice in the butterfly position. The functioning of the leg pad is thus not affected by the attachment means.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the invention, the plate is provided with hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners for attaching the plate to the parts of the landing pad. The plate can be provided on one side with a hook part and on the opposite side with a loop part such that each side of the plate can be attached to the respective parts of the landing pad.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured such that when in use, the angle between the femur and tibia of the goalkeeper in a butterfly position is at least 60 degrees. However, the angle could also be different, depending on the anatomy and preferences of the goalkeeper.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is provided with attachment means configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad and / or to the knee guard. Similarly, the attachment means of the leg pad and / or the knee guard may be configured for quick-release attachment of the support device. The user may prefer to use the support device only in certain situations, such as during training, and it is thus beneficial that the support device can be easily detached from other equipment.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is configured such that it contacts in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device. This prevents the leg pad from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad comprise first attachment means arranged on the medial side of the leg. The medial side of the leg pad refers here to that part of the leg pad that is located on the medial side of the longitudinal center line of leg pad.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the invention, the first attachment means are arranged in a leg channel pad, in a landing pad, and / or in a pad arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad below the landing pad. According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad comprise second attachment means arranged in a pad of a leg channel of the leg pad on the lateral side of the leg pad.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are configured to allow the support device to be attached to at least two alternative positions in the leg pad. This allows the position of the support device to be optimized for each user.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are configured for quick-release attachment of the support device.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad comprise hook and loop fasteners.

[0037] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is integrated to the leg pad.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are attached to a landing pad on the medial side of the leg pad and / or to a pad arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad below the landing pad. This arrangement is suitable especially for a support device comprising an arm. The landing pad and the pad below the landing pad typically provide a sufficiently rigid and firm structure for attachment of the support device. Attachment to the landing pad or other pad on the medial side of the leg pad also allows positioning the attachment point of the support device sufficiently far from the front side of the leg pad, thus allowing the support device to be in an angle effectively supporting the thigh of the goalkeeper without significantly limiting the movements of the goalkeeper.

[0039] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means comprise an arched support part extending in the lateral direction of the leg pad at least partly over the leg pad and being attached to the leg pad at least in two positions. The arched support part forms firm attachment means for the support device.

[0040] According to an embodiment of the invention, the leg pad is provided with an attachment point for pivotably connecting the support device to the leg pad, and the attachment point is located from the center line of a knee cradle of the leg pad at a distance that is 20-60 percent of the distance between the lower end of the lowermost medial side pad of the leg pad and said centerline of the knee cradle. According to an embodiment of the invention, an attachment point for the support device is positioned in the upper third of the lower half of the leg pad. A suitable positioning of the attachment point of the support device ensures that the support device can properly support the thigh of the goalkeeper, while limiting the movements of the goalkeeper as little as possible.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the invention, the support device is pivotably connected to the leg pad via an attachment point that is positioned rearwards from a leg channel of the leg pad. According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment point of the support device is located in the depth direction of the leg pad in the rearmost third of the leg pad. It is beneficial to position the attachment point of the support device relatively far from the front side of the leg pad to keep the support device in a suitable angle.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the leg pad are configured such that the attachment means contact in the butterfly position the ice to form a support point for the support device. This prevents the leg pad from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, the leg pad comprises an ankle support means configured such that a supporting force exerted in a kneeling position of the goalkeeper via the ankle support means on the ankle of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain the skate of the respective leg in a position, in which the heel end of the skate is positioned at the same level or higher than the toe end of the skate.

[0044] With the ankle support means the ankle of the goaltender is kept in a more convenient position in the butterfly position. This further reduces the stress of the ankles, knees and hip and reduces the risk of strain injuries.

[0045] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ankle support means is configured to support said skate to a position, in which the angle between a longitudinal axis of the skate and a horizontal plane is 5 to 45 degrees. According to an embodiment of the invention, the angle is 10 to 30 degrees.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ankle support means is removably attached to the leg pad. According to an embodiment of the invention, the ankle support means is integrated to a leg channel pad, to a medial side pad that is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad below the landing pad, or to a medial side pad extending from a knee region to an ankle region.

[0047] Brief description of the drawings

[0048] Embodiments of the invention are described below in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a rear view of a leg pad with a removeable support device,

[0050] Figs. 2A and 2B show, respectively, a medial side view and a lateral side view of the leg pad of figure 1 ,

[0051] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a leg pad with a removeable support device,

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a front view of a support device according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0053] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a support device according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0054] Fig. 6 shows a rear view of a leg pad with an integrated support device,

[0055] Figs. 7A and 7B show, respectively, a medial side view and a lateral side view of the leg pad of figure 6,

[0056] Fig. 8A shows a goaltender using a leg pad with a support device according to the invention in the butterfly position,

[0057] Fig. 8B shows a goaltender using a leg pad without the support device in the butterfly position,

[0058] Fig. 9 shows a knee guard that can be used together with the support device according to the invention,

[0059] Figs. 10 to 12 show leg pads with support devices according further embodiments of the invention, Fig. 13 shows a support device according to a further embodiment of the invention,

[0060] Fig. 14 shows a leg pad with a support device according to a further embodiment of the invention,

[0061] Fig. 15 shows a knee guard with a support device according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0062] Figs. 16A-16C show schematically a support device and a leg pad according to an embodiment of the invention in different positions,

[0063] Fig. 17 shows a leg pad with an ankle support means, and

[0064] Fig. 18 shows a goaltender using leg pads with ankle support means and support devices in the butterfly position.

[0065] Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0066] The invention concerns a support device 1 and a leg pad 10 for supporting the thigh 30 of a goaltender (goalkeeper) in a kneeling position, in particular in a butterfly position, in ice sports or roller sports.

[0067] The support device 1 is configured to be used with a goaltender’s leg pad 10. The figures show different views of leg pads 10 according to embodiments of the invention. The support device 1 can also be used with prior art leg pads 10. It is thus not necessary to configure a leg pad 10 for the support device 1 according to the invention. The figures are simplified and do not show all the details of the leg pad 10, such as different straps needed to attach the leg pad 10 to the leg of the user.

[0068] The leg pad 10 is configured for use in ice sports or roller sports. The leg pad 10 is suitable in particular for ice hockey. However, the leg pad 10 could also be used, for instance, in ringette, rinkball or inline hockey. The leg pad 10 is configured to protect the leg of the goaltender. The lower end of the leg pad 10 is configured to extend below the ankle of the goaltender and the upper end of the leg pad 10 is configured to extend above the knee of the goaltender.

[0069] The leg pad 10 has a front side 10A, rear side 10B, medial side 10C, lateral side 10D, lower end 10E and upper end 10F. The terms above refer to the positions of different parts of the leg pad 10 when the leg pad 10 is worn by a standing goaltender. The rear side 10B thus faces the front of the leg of the goaltender and the front side 10A faces forward from the goaltender. The medial side 10C faces the other leg of the goaltender and the lateral side 10D faces to the side from the goaltender. The direction from the lower end 10E to the upper end 10F can be referred to as a longitudinal direction, the direction from the medial side 10C to the lateral side 10D as a lateral direction, and the direction from the front side 10A to the rear side 10B as a front-rear direction.

[0070] The leg pad 10 is configured to extend at least to the height of the knee of the goaltender. Typically, the leg pads 10 are configured to extend to a certain height above the knee of the goaltender. The lower end 10E of the leg pad 10 is typically configured to cover the front side of the toe of the goaltender’s skate 26.

[0071] The front side 10A of the leg pad 10 is provided with padding that extends from the lower end 10E of the leg pad 10 to the upper end 10F of the leg pad 10. The padding extending from the lower end 10E of the leg pad 10 to the upper end 10F can be made of several parts and forms the body of the leg pad 10. A landing pad (landing gear) 12 is arranged on the medial side 10C of the leg pad 10. The term “landing pad” refers here to padding that is configured to be at the height of the knee of the goaltender. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, the landing pad 12 is positioned between the ice and the knee of the goaltender. In the embodiments of the figures, the leg pad 10 comprises a lower medial side pad 1 1 that is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10 below the landing pad 12. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, the lower medial side pad 1 1 is between the ice and the lower leg of the goaltender. The lower medial side pad 11 could be integrated with the landing pad 12. The medial side 10C could thus be provided with a single continuous pad configured to extend from the height of the knee to the height of the lower leg of the goaltender. Instead of a single lower medial side pad 11 arranged below the landing pad 12, the medial side of the leg pad 10 could be provided with two or more pads below the landing pad 12.

[0072] The leg pad 10 comprises a leg channel 17. The leg channel 17 is configured to receive the lower leg of the goaltender. The leg channel 17 extends approximately from the ankle of the goaltender to the upper end of the calf. The leg channel 17 is formed by pads 17A, 17B arranged on two sides of the area that is configured to receive the leg of the goaltender. The rear side of the leg channel 17 may comprise one or more straps 18 for keeping the leg pad 10 in place. The leg channel 17 may be formed by more than two pads. For instance, on one or both sides of the leg channel 17 can be arranged two pads that are at least partly overlapping and form a stack in the lateral direction of the leg pad 10.

[0073] In the butterfly position, the legs of the goaltender are spread to the sides to block the lower part of the goal. The arms are spread to block and catch shots aimed at upper parts of the goal. The butterfly position can be very challenging and straining for the goaltenders. In the butterfly save position, the joints of the knees and hips of the goaltender are often bent to extreme positions. This causes discomfort and also exposes the goaltender to stress injuries, in particular of the hip. During a single ice hockey game, the goaltender may drop to the knees tens of times. During training, the number of saves and thus the time spent in the butterfly position is even greater. Similar strain can be experienced also in other positions, in which at least one knee of the goaltender contacts the ice via the leg pad 10.

[0074] Figure 8B shows a goaltender in the butterfly position without the support device according to the invention. As the goaltender drops onto the knees, the hip of the goaltender often moves backwards into a low position, leading to a small angle a between the lower leg 31 and the thigh 30, i.e. the shin bone (tibia) and thigh bone (femur). In the example of figure 8B, the angle a is approximately 45 degrees. The small angle between the tibia and femur causes significant stress to the hip of the goaltender. Also the angle between the thigh 30 and the hip is small. Typically, also the angle A between the ice and the skate 26 is small, causing additional strain to the hip.

[0075] The support device 1 according to the invention is configured to help the goaltender to maintain a specific minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30. The support device 1 is configured to cooperate with the goaltender’s leg pad 10.

[0076] The support device 1 is configured to be removably attached to a goaltender’s leg pad 10 or to form an integral part of a goaltender’s leg pad 10. The support device 1 comprises at least one attachment portion 2, 3 configured for attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10, and a thigh support portion 4. In case of a support device 1 integrated to a leg pad, the attachment portion 2, 3 can be an integral part of some other part of the leg pad 10. The support device 1 is configured such that when in use, a supporting force exerted via the thigh support portion 4 on the thigh 30 of the goalkeeper helps the goaltender to maintain a specific minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30.

[0077] As the goaltender drops to a kneeling position, in particular to the butterfly position, the force acting via the support device 1 helps the goaltender to maintain the specific minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30. What is a suitable minimum angle a between the leg 31 and the thigh 30 depends on the anatomy and preferences of the goaltender. Preferably, the support device 1 and / or its attachment to the leg pad 10 can be adjusted such that each user can adapt the angle to which the support device 1 supports the thigh 30 according to the needs and preferences of the user.

[0078] The angle a to which the support device 1 should guide the thigh 30 of the goaltender depends on the anatomy and preferences of the user, but the angle between the femur and tibia could be, for instance, 60 degrees or more.

[0079] The support device 1 is configured such that moving of the goaltender is limited as little as possible. When the goaltender is in a standing position, the support device 1 does not substantially limit the movements of the goaltender.

[0080] The support device 1 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways. If the support device 1 is configured to be removably attached to the leg pad 10, the support device 1 is preferably attached to the leg pad 10 such that the user can easily remove the support device 1 when needed. For instance, a user may want to use the support device 1 only when training and to detach the support device 1 from the leg pad 10 for games. The support device 1 can be provided with attachment means configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad 10. The expression “removably attached” means here that the support device 1 can be detached from the leg pad 10 in a non-destructive manner.

[0081] Figures 1 to 3 show views of leg pads 10 with a removable support device 1 . Figures 4 and 5 show a support device 1 without the leg pad 10. In the embodiments of figures 1 to 5, the support device 1 comprises a first attachment portion 2. The first attachment portion is configured for attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10 on the medial side of the leg pad 10. Medial side refers here to that part of the leg pad 10 that is located on the medial side of the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figure 1 , the first attachment portion 2 is configured for attaching the support device onto the medial side of a pad 17B of the leg channel 17. In the embodiment of figure 3, the first attachment portion 2 is configured for attaching the support device onto the lateral side of the pad 17B of the leg channel 17. If the leg channel 17 was provided with two pads on the medial side of the leg pad 10, the first attachment portion 2 could be attached between the two pads. The first attachment portion could also be attached to the landing pad 12 of the leg pad 10 and / or to the pad 11 arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10 below the landing pad 12.

[0082] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 5, the support device 1 further comprises a second attachment portion 3 for attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10 on the lateral side 10D of the leg pad 10, i.e. in that part that is located on the lateral side of the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10. In the embodiments of figures 1 to 5, the second attachment portion 3 is configured for attaching the support device 1 to a pad 17A of a leg channel 17 of the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figure 1 , the second attachment portion 3 is attached to the medial side of the leg channel pad 17A. In the embodiment of figure 3, the second attachment portion 3 is attached to the lateral side of the leg channel pad 17A. If the leg channel 17 was provided with two pads on the lateral side of the leg pad 10, the second attachment portion 3 could be attached between the two pads.

[0083] By attaching the support device 1 to the leg channel pads 17A, 17B, the support device 1 remains optimally positioned in respect of the leg of the goaltender. However, also other ways of attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10 can allow sufficient functioning of the support device 1 .

[0084] The support device 1 of figures 1 to 5 extends behind the leg of the goaltender from the medial side 10C of the leg pad 10 to the lateral side 10D of the leg pad 10. As the support device 1 extends from the medial side of the leg pad 10 to the lateral side, two attachment areas are provided for the support device 1 and the support device 1 is firmly attached to the leg pad 10. This allows the support device 1 to be attached to existing leg pads 10 with little or no modifications. However, the support device 1 could be attached to the leg pad 10 only on the medial side or the lateral side. For instance, the support device 1 could be attached directly to the body of the leg pad 10 on the lateral side of the leg pad 10. The support device 1 could thus comprise only the second attachment portion 3.

[0085] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 5, the support device 1 does not contact the thigh 30 of the goaltender when the goaltender is standing, but as the goaltender drops to the butterfly position, the thigh support portion 4 contacts the thigh 30 of the goaltender. The support device 1 thus transmits a support force to the thigh 30 of the goaltender and helps to maintain the specific minimum angle a between the lower leg 31 and the thigh 30.

[0086] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 5, the support device 1 is provided with attachment means 2A, 2B, 3A for attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10. The attachment means 2A, 2B, 3A are configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad 10 and comprise hook and loop fasteners (Velcro). Both the first attachment portion 2 and the second attachment portion 3 are provided with attachment means. Depending on the configuration of the support device 1 , also many other attachment means could be used. For instance, the support device 1 could be attached to the leg pad 10 by means of straps or screws. The support device 1 could also be attached to the leg pad non-removably, for instance by stitching or glueing.

[0087] The support device 1 can be a one-piece part or comprise two or more parts. The support device 1 can be made of a single material or of two or more materials. The support device 1 should be sufficiently rigid to be able to support the thigh 30 of the goaltender. However, at least the thigh support portion 4 is preferably cushioned to reduce impacts on the thigh 30 of the goaltender. The support device 1 could comprise, for instance, a plastic material, such as foamed plastic, and / or fiber material, such as carbon fiber. The support device 1 could also comprise a metal or an alloy. For instance, the support device 1 could comprise a metal core extending from the medial side of the leg pad 10 to the lateral side and a thigh support portion 4 comprising suitable plastic material.

[0088] The attachment means of the support device 1 and / or the leg pad 10 can be configured such that the position of the support device 1 can be adjusted. For instance, the support device 1 could be moved in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10. That would allow each goaltender to optimize the position of the support device 1 according to his or her personal preferences. As an example of attachment means allowing the position of the support device 1 to be adjusted, the leg pad 10 could comprise a Velcro surface having a sufficiently large area to allow the support device 1 to be attached to at least slightly different positions. It may be sufficient that only the position of one of the attachment portions 2, 3 of the support device 1 relative to the leg pad 10 is adjusted.

[0089] Figures 6, 7A and 7B show another embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of figures 6, 7A and 7B, the support device forms an integral part of the leg pad 10. The support device 1 is formed as part of a leg channel pad 17A on the lateral side of the leg pad 10. The opposite end of the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 on the medial side of the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figures 6, 7A and 7B, the support device 1 is attached to the leg channel pad 17B. However, the support device 1 could also be attached to a medial side pad 11 below the landing pad 12. The support device 1 could also form an integral part of the leg channel pad 17B or the medial side pad 11.

[0090] The thigh support portion 4 can be shaped to provide ergonomic support for the thigh 30 of the goaltender.

[0091] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 7B, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in the middlemost third in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10. The support device 10 is attached to the upper halves of the leg channel pads 17A, 17B.

[0092] The thigh 30 of the goaltender can contact the thigh support portion 4 of the support device 1 directly. However, that is not necessary. Figure 9 shows a goaltender’s knee guard 20 that is configured to be used together with support devices 1 according to some embodiments of the invention. The knee guard 20 is configured to be worn under the leg pad 10 to provide additional protection. In the embodiment of figure 9, the knee guard 20 comprises a lower portion 21 , a middle portion 22 and an upper portion 23. The middle portion 22 is configured to be arranged against the knee of the goaltender. The lower portion 21 extends downwards from the middle portion 22, and the upper portion 23 extends upwards from the middle portion 22. The lower portion 21 and the upper portion 23 are connected to the middle portion 21 such that the knee guard 20 allows movements of the goaltender. The connection between the lower portion 21 and the middle portion 22 and between the upper portion 23 and the middle portion 22 is thus flexible. The knee guard 20 further comprises straps 32 for attaching the knee guard 20 to the leg of the goaltender. The rear side of the knee guard 20 comprises a counterpart 34 for the support device 1 . The counterpart 34 is configured to contact the support device 1 as the goaltender drops to the butterfly position. The counterpart 34 is configured to cooperate with the support device 1 . The counterpart 34 can reduce the impacts directed to the thigh 30 of the goaltender and ensure that the angle between the thigh 30 and the lower leg 31 is in the butterfly position in the desired range.

[0093] Instead of using the knee guard 20 with the counterpart 34, a counterpart for the support device 1 could be attached directly to the thigh 30 of the goaltender.

[0094] Figure 10 shows a support device 1 according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0095] The support device 1 has a lower end 1 A and an upper end 1 B. The lower end 1A is configured to be connected to the leg pad 10 and the upper end 1 B is configured to be connected either to a goaltender’s knee guard 20 or to the thigh 30 of the goaltender. The lower end 1A of the support device 1 forms an attachment portion 2 for attaching the support device 1 to the leg pad 10.

[0096] For allowing the goaltender to move freely despite the support device 1 , the lower end 1 A of the support device 1 can be attached pivotably to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 can thus turn about an attachment point at least to a certain extent. Optionally, the lower end 1A of the support device 1 can be further configured to be moveable relative to the leg pad 10 within predetermined limits. The attachment point can thus be either fixed or moveable. Alternatively, the support device 1 can be provided with a pivot point, about which a portion of the support device 1 can pivot.

[0097] In the embodiment of the figure 10, the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 is provided with the thigh support portion 4. The thigh support portion 4 is a curved support portion that is configured to contact the back and sides of the goaltender’s thigh 30. The thigh support portion 4 can extend, for instance, over an angle of 120-180 degrees to provide sufficient support for the thigh 30. The upper end 1 B of the support device 1 can be provided with one or more straps for attaching the thigh support portion 4 to the thigh 30 of the goaltender. Alternatively, the support device 1 could be provided with a counterpart that can be attached to the thigh support portion 4 to reliably attach the support device 1 to the thigh 30 of the goaltender.

[0098] The support device 1 of figure 10 further comprises an arm 5. The upper end of the arm 5 is connected to the thigh support portion 4. The thigh support portion 4 and the arm 5 can be integrated into a one-piece part. However, the curved support portion 4 could also be detachably attached to the arm 5. The lower end of the arm 5 is configured to be connected to the leg pad 10 or to attachment means of the support device 1 . In the embodiment of figure 10, the arm 5 is straight, but it could also have any other suitable shape.

[0099] The angle a to which the support device 1 of figure 10 guides the leg 30 of the goaltender depends on the length of the support device 1 or the arm 5, the position to which the lower end 1A of the support device 1 is attached in the leg pad 10 or the position of the pivot point about which the arm 5 pivots, and the area where the upper end of the support device 1 contacts the thigh 30 of the goaltender. While all these could be adjusted, the simplest way to adapt the support device 1 of figure 10 to the needs of different users is the adjustment of the length of the support device 1 , and in particular the length of the arm 5. The support device 1 can be provided in various lengths, but preferably the length of the support device 1 is adjustable. This allows each goaltender to adjust the support action of the support device 1 according to his or her personal needs and preferences. For instance, the length of the arm 5 of the support device 1 could be adjustable telescopically either in steps or in a stepless manner.

[0100] In the embodiment of figure 10, the leg pad 10 is provided with attachment means 13 for the support device 1 in the lower medial side pad 11. If the leg pad 10 was provided on the medial side 10C with a single pad integrating the landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 , the attachment means 13 could be arranged in such a pad. The attachment means 13 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways. For instance, the attachment means 13 could be attached to the leg pad 10 by means of screws or by gluing or sewing or using a combination of different means. The attachment point of the support device 1 allows the arm 5 of the support device 1 to turn about the attachment point. Other movement of the lower end of the arm 5 relative to the attachment point is prevented.

[0101] As discussed above, the angle to which the support device 1 of figure 10 supports the thigh 30 of the goaltender depends on the position of the attachment point of the support device 1 in the leg pad 10. It is beneficial to arrange the attachment means 13 such that the attachment point is clearly below the knee of the goaltender in a standing position of the goaltender. Also, it is beneficial to arrange the attachment point relatively far from the front side 10A of the leg pad 10.

[0102] The embodiment of figure 11 functions in a similar way as the embodiment of figure 10. The support device 1 is almost identical to the support device 1 shown in figure 10. However, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in a different manner. In the embodiment of figure 11 , the attachment means for the support device 1 comprise an arched support part 15. The support part 15 extends in the lateral direction of the leg pad 10 at least partly over the leg pad 10. When the leg pad 10 is in use, the support part 15 is behind the leg of the goaltender. The support part 15 has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the leg pad 10 at a location that is laterally inwards from the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10, i.e. towards the other leg of the goaltender. The second end is attached to the leg pad 10 at a location that is laterally outwards from the longitudinal center line of the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figure 11 , the first end is attached to the landing pad 12. However, the first end could also be attached to the lower medial side pad 11 or to a pad integrating the landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 . Alternatively, the first end could be attached to some other part of the leg pad 10. The second end of the support part 15 is attached to the leg pad 10 on the lateral side of the leg pad 10. The landing pad 12, lower medial side pad 11 or other portions of the leg pad 10 can be provided with suitable reinforcement means for allowing firm attachment of the support part 15 to the leg pad 10. The support part 15 can be attached to the leg pad 10 in many different ways, such as by gluing or sewing, by means of screws or using a combination of different means.

[0103] In the embodiment of figure 11 , the first end 1A of the support device 1 is pivotably attached to the support part 15. In addition, the support device 1 can be moveable in the longitudinal direction of the support part 15. The attachment point of the support device 1 is thus not fixed, but can move along the support part 15. In the embodiment of figure 11 , the attachment point is positioned rearwards from the leg channel 17. The attachment point is also positioned rearwards from the landing pad 12.

[0104] Also in the embodiment of figure 12, the support device 1 functions in a similar way as in the embodiments of figures 10 and 11 . However, the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 in a different manner. In the embodiment of figure 12, the support device 1 is attached to the landing pad 12. The attachment means 14 for the support device 1 comprise an arm portion 14A extending downwards from the landing pad 12. The support device 1 is attached to the free end of the arm portion 14A. The attachment point of the support device 1 is thus located at the free end of the arm portion 14A. The attachment point is thus at a distance from the landing pad 12. The arm portion 14A positions the attachment point such that the support device 1 can support the thigh 30 of the goaltender in a suitable angle. The arm 5 of the support device 1 can pivot about the attachment point, but the position of the lower end of the arm 5 is fixed relative to the attachment point.

[0105] In the embodiments of figures 10 to 12, the second end 1 B of the support device 1 can be configured to be supported directly against the thigh 30 of the goaltender. However, the second end 1 B can also be configured to be attached to a goaltender’s knee guard 20. Figure 15 shows such a knee guard 20. The knee guard 20 is similar to the knee guard 20 of figure 9 and configured to be worn under the leg pad 10 to provide additional protection. The knee guard 20 is provided with attachment means 16 for attaching the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 to the knee guard 20. The attachment means 16 can be configured for quick-release attachment of the support device 1 . The support device 1 is connected to the upper portion 23. By attaching the support device 1 to the knee guard 20, the upper end 1 B of the support device 1 is kept reliably in the right position against the thigh 30 of the goaltender. The support device 1 could form an integral part of the knee guard 20.

[0106] Positioning of the attachment point of the support device 1 of embodiments of figures 10 to 12 is discussed below by referring to figure 16A. In figure 16A, line B depicts the position of the kneecap of the goaltender in the leg pad 10. Line B is substantially aligned with a center line of the landing pad 12. A typical leg pad 10 is provided with a knee cradle (not shown in the figures) that is configured to contact the knee of the goaltender. Line B is substantially aligned with a center line of the knee cradle.

[0107] In the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10, the distance between line B and the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 is D1 . The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is located at a distance of D2 from line A. The distance D2 between the attachment point 19 and line B is preferably 30-60 percent of the distance D1 between the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 and line B, i.e. the center line of the knee cradle. If the leg pad 10 was provided with a pad integrating the lower medial side pad 11 and the landing pad 12, the lower end of such an integrated pad would correspond to the lower end of the lower medial side pad 11 of figure 14A. If the leg pad 10 was provided with two or more pads below the landing pad 12, the lower end of the lowermost medial side pad would correspond to the lower end of the lower medial side pad 1 1 of figure 14A.

[0108] Alternatively, a suitable position for the attachment point 19 could be defined relative to the height of the leg pad 10, i.e. the vertical distance between the lower end 10E and the upper end 10F of the leg pad 10. The attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is preferably positioned in the upper third of the lower half of the leg pad 10.

[0109] In the depth direction, i.e. in the direction from the front side 10A to the rear side 10B of the leg pad 10, the attachment point 19 of the support device 1 is preferably positioned rearwards from the leg channel 17. The attachment point 19 can be positioned, for instance, in the rearmost third of the leg pad 10 or even backwards from the leg pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 .

[0110] The functioning of the support device 1 according to the embodiment of figure 12 is shown in the schematic drawings 16A to 16C. The functioning of the embodiments of figures 10 and 11 is very similar. Figure 16C shows the leg pad 10 and the support device 1 as they are positioned when the goaltender is standing. As the lower end 1 A of the support device 1 is pivotably attached to the leg pad 10, in the example of figures 16A to 16C to the landing pad 12, the goaltender can move freely in the standing position. Figure 16B shows the leg pad 10 and the support device 1 when the goaltender is dropping into the butterfly position. In the position of figure 16B, the support device 1 does not prevent moving of the goaltender. In figure 16A, the goaltender has reached the butterfly position. The landing pad 12 and the lower medial side pad 11 are against the ice. The lower end 1 B of the support device 1 is attached to the leg pad 10 and cannot move relative to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 can thus direct via the arm 5 of the support device 1 a supporting force to the thigh 30 of the goaltender, thus helping the goaltender to maintain a suitable angle between the lower leg 31 and the thigh 30. Each of the two leg pads 10 of the goaltender is obviously provided with a similar support device 1 .

[0111] In the embodiments of figures 1 to 8, the support device 1 functions in the butterfly position in a similar way as in the embodiments of figures 10 to 12. However, as the thigh support portion 4 of the support device 1 is not connected to the thigh 30 of the goaltender, when the goaltender is standing, the thigh 30 of the goaltender is not in contact with the support device 1. As the support device 1 supports the thigh 30 of the goaltender only in a kneeling position, the support device 1 does not need to be pivotably attached to the leg pad 10 or to comprise a pivot point.

[0112] In the butterfly position, the support device 1 helps the goaltender to keep the angle a between the thigh 30 and the leg 31 greater. As a result, also the angle between the hip and the thigh 30 and the angle A between the skate 26 and the ice are increased.

[0113] Figures 13 shows a further embodiment of the support device 1 according to the invention. The support device 1 of figure 13 is configured in particular for retrofit solutions, as it can be attached to the leg pad 10 without modifying the leg pad 10. As shown for example in figure 12, the landing pad 12 may comprise several parts 12A, 12B, 12C. In the example of figure 12, the landing pad 12 comprises three parts 12A, 12B, 12C forming a stack. A first part 12A is configured to face the knee of the goaltender, a third part 12C is configured to face on the medial side of the leg pad 10 laterally outwards, i.e. in the butterfly position the ice, and a second part 12B is arranged between the first and third parts 12A, 12C. At least the first and second parts 12A, 12B can be detachably attached to each other, for example using hook and loop (Velcro) fasteners.

[0114] The support device 1 of figure 13 comprises a plate 24 that is configured to be inserted between the first and second parts 12A, 12B of the landing pad 12. The plate 24 can be provided on each side with hook and loop fasteners that are configured to attach the plate 24 to the parts of the landing pad 12. For instance, if the first part 12A of the landing pad 12 is provided with a loop part of a Velcro fastener and the second part 12B is provided with a hook part of the Velcro fastener, the surface of the plate 24 configured to face the first part 12A is provided with a hook part and the surface configured to face the second part 12B of the landing pad 12 is provided with a loop part. The plate 1 can thus be attached to the landing pad 12 without a need to modify the landing pad 12. Instead of being inserted between the first and second parts 12A, 12B of the landing pad 12, the plate 24 could be inserted between the second and third parts 12B, 12C of the landing pad 12.

[0115] In the embodiment of figure 13, the support device 1 comprises an arm portion 28 that is configured to extend in the mounted position of the support device 1 towards the lower end 12E of the leg pad 10. The arm 5 of the support device 1 is attached to the other end of the arm portion 28. A pivot point 29 is formed at the end of the arm portion 28. The arm 5 can thus turn relative to the arm portion 28. As the plate 24 is attached non-moveably to the leg pad 10, the arm 5 pivots relative to the leg pad 10. The support device 1 of figure 13 thus functions in a similar manner as the support device 1 of figures 10 to 12, but a pivot point 29 for the arm 5 of the support device 1 is located in the support device 1 itself. The support device 1 thus comprises a stationary part and a moveable part that is configured to turn relative to the stationary part. The pivot point 29 for the arm 5 is located similarly as the attachment point in the embodiments of figures 10 to 12. In the embodiment of figures 13, the arm portion 28 is attached to a rim 25 bordering two edges of the plate 24.

[0116] A similar hook and loop attachment could also be used in other embodiments of the invention. For instance, in the embodiment of figure 11 , one end of the arched support part 15 could be attached to the landing pad 12 in a similar way as the support device 1 of figure 13.

[0117] Instead of being attached to the landing pad 12 with hook and loop fasteners, the plate 24 of the support device 1 of figure 13 could be attached to the landing pad 12 of the leg pad 10 in some other way, for instance by means of screws or by gluing.

[0118] Figure 14 shows another support device 1 that is configured in particular for retrofit solutions. The support device 1 comprises attachment means 2D that allow the support device 1 to be attached to the landing pad 12 of the leg pad 10 without modifying the leg pad 10. In the embodiment of figure 14, the attachment means 2D of the support device 1 comprise support parts 33 that are configured to encircle the landing pad 12 on upper, lower, medial, lateral and rear sides of the landing pad 12. Some of the support parts 33 can be flexible and / or adjustable to attach the support device 1 firmly to the landing pad 12. It is not necessary to have the support parts 33 on all sides of the landing pad 12, but the support device 1 could comprise for instance a single support part that can be arranged against the lower side of the landing pad 12 and attached to the landing pad 12 with separate or integrated straps.

[0119] In the embodiment of figure 14, the support device 1 is configured such that it contacts the ice in the butterfly position. This provides an additional support point for the support device 1 and prevents the leg pad 10 from turning backwards about a longitudinal axis of the leg pad 10. The support device 1 comprises a similar arm portion 28 as the support device 1 of figure 13. The arm 5 of the support device 1 is attached to the end of the arm portion 28. A pivot point 29 is thus formed at the end of the arm portion 28. The support device 1 is configured such that it contacts in the butterfly position the ice at the pivot point 29. Depending on the construction of the pivot between the arm portion 28 and the arm 5, either the arm portion 28 or the arm 5 can contact the ice. The support device 1 is made of a material that can withstand the impacts caused by the support device 1 hitting the ice. The contact point of the support device 1 is rounded to ensure that gliding of the leg pad 10 on the ice is not disturbed.

[0120] Also the embodiments of the other figures could be modified such that the support device 1 or the attachment means of the leg pad 10 contact the ice in the butterfly position to form a support point for the support device 1 . The attachment means can be configured such that they contact the ice for example at the attachment point of the support device 1 .

[0121] Figure 17 shows a further embodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of figure 17, the support device 1 is similar to the support device 1 of figure 6. However, the leg pad 10 additionally comprises an ankle support means 9. The ankle support means 9 is configured such that when the goaltender is in the butterfly position, a supporting force exerted via the ankle support means 9 on the ankle of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain the skate 26 of the respective leg in a position, in which the heel end of the skate 26 is positioned at the same level or higher than the toe end of the skate 26. A supporting force is thus transmitted from the ice or ground via the ankle support means 9 to the ankle and / or to the lower leg of goaltender.

[0122] The ankle support means 9 may be configured such that the ankle support means 9 supports the ankle of the goaltender to a position, where the angle A between the longitudinal axis A of the skate 26 and a horizontal plane is 0 to 45 degrees. Preferably, the angle A is at least 5 degrees. Preferably, the angle is in the range of 10 to 30 degrees.

[0123] The ankle support means 9 reduces stress in lower extremities including hip, knee, and ankle joints with attached tendons and muscles of the goaltender. The ankle support means 9 has a synergistic effect with the support device 1 according to the invention, and the comfort of the goaltender can thus be further increased and the risk of strain injuries can be reduced.

[0124] The ankle support means 9 can be implemented in many different ways. The ankle support means 9 can contact the ice and the skate 26, ankle or lower leg of the goaltender directly or indirectly. The ankle support means 9 can thus be positioned in the leg pad 10 below any medial side pads of the leg pad 10 or attached either onto the medial side or onto the lateral side of a part of the leg pad 10.

[0125] The ankle support means 9 is made of one or more materials having suitable properties for providing the support function. The ankle support means 9 needs to be rigid enough to support the ankle of the goaltender to the desired angle. On the other hand, it is advantageous that the ankle support means 9 has some flexibility to prevent harsh impacts as the goaltender drops to the butterfly position. The ankle support means 9 can comprise similar materials as other parts of the leg pad 10. In some applications, the flexibility may not be needed, if the ankle support means 9 is located such that other parts of the leg pad 10 provide sufficient cushioning. The ankle support means 9 can comprise two or more different materials to provide both sufficient rigidity and comfort. For instance, the ankle support means 9 can comprise a core that is made of a rigid material and an outer shell that is made of a more elastic material. Alternatively, the ankle support means 9 could comprise more rigid material on the medial side and more elastic material on the lateral side. The material or materials of the ankle support means 9 are preferably chosen such that when the ankle support means 9 support the ankle of the goaltender, the ankle support means 9 is compressed at most 20 percent in the direction of the supporting force compared to a non-compressed state.

[0126] In the lateral direction of the leg pad 10, the largest dimension of the ankle support means 9 could be at least 5 cm and at most 15 cm. In the front-rear direction of the leg pad 10, the largest dimension of the ankle support means 9 could be at least 5 cm and at most 20 cm.

[0127] In the front-rear direction of the leg pad 10, the ankle support means 9 can be configured to extend close to the body of the leg pad 10. The ankle support means 9 can also be configured to extend close to the rear end of any of the medial side pads. In the embodiments of the figures, the ankle support means 9 extends to the rear end of the lower medial side pad 11 of the leg pad 10. The ankle support means 9 preferably extends to the rearmost 20 percent of the lowermost medial side pad 11 . If the ankle support means 9 is attached to a pad 17B of the leg channel 17, or forms an integral part of such a pad, the ankle support means 9 preferably extends to the rearmost 20 percent of the pad 17B. The ankle support means 9 could extend even beyond the rearmost end of the leg channel pad 17B and / or the lowermost medial side pad 11 .

[0128] The ankle support means 9 can be formed by a support block that can be attached to the leg pad 10. The support block can be attached to a leg pad 10 removably. For attaching the support block to the leg pad 10, the support block can be provided with suitable attachment means. For example, the support block can be provided with hook and loop fasteners (Velcro). The leg pad 10 can be provided with attachment means that are configured to cooperate with the attachment means of the support block. If the support block comprises hook and loop fasteners, the leg pad 10 can thus comprise corresponding hook and loop fasteners. If the ankle support means 9 is configured to be removably attached to the leg pad 10, the ankle support means 9 can be easily detached from the leg pad 10 when needed. For instance, depending on the dimensions and location of the ankle support means 9 in the leg pad 10, the leg pad 10 may not meet the requirements set by the rules of the sport for the equipment of goaltenders. In such a case, the ankle support means 9 could be used only during training and removed before official games. Also, the ankle support means 9 could be provided in different dimensions and shapes, and different versions could be easily tested to find the configuration best suited for each goaltender.

[0129] The attachment means of the leg pad 10 can be configured to allow adjusting of the position of the ankle support means 9. This allows the ankle support means 9 to be positioned optimally for each goaltender. For instance, the attachment means of the leg pad could be configured to allow the ankle support means 9 to be moved at least 5 cm in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad 10 and / or at least 3 cm in the front-rear direction of the leg pad 10.

[0130] The support block can have a shape that tapers in a mounted position of the support block towards the front side 10A of the leg pad 10. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, substantially the whole upper surface of the support block 1 thus contacts the skate 26. When the goaltender is standing, the tapered shape leaves more space for movements of the goaltender. Although the tapered shape is advantageous, the support block could also have some other shape.

[0131] Depending on the leg pad 10, a removable support block could be attached to different parts of the leg pad 10. For instance, the support block could be attached to the medial side of the lowermost medial side pad 11. The support block could thus contact the ice when the goaltender is in the butterfly position. The outer surface of the support block could be made of a similar material as other outer surfaces of the leg pad 10 to ensure that the support block has similar gliding properties on the ice as the rest of the leg pad 10. Alternatively, the support block could be attached onto the inner side of the lowermost medial side pad 11 or to a leg channel pad 17B. When the goaltender is in the butterfly position, the support block may thus not contact the ice, but the support force may be exerted on the ankle of the goaltender via the lowermost medial side pad 1 1 and the support block and, optionally, via the leg channel pad 17B.

[0132] Instead of being removably attached to the leg pad 10, the support block could be attached to the leg pad 10 for example by stitching and / or gluing. The ankle support means 9 does not need to be formed by a single part, but the ankle support means 9 could be formed, for example, by two parts arranged on opposite sides of a pad of the leg pad 10. Instead of a separate support block that is either removably or non-removably attached to the leg pad 10, the leg pad 10 can be provided with ankle support means that forms a non-separable part of some other part of the leg pad 10. The ankle support means 9 can thus comprise, for instance, a protrusion that is arranged at the lower end of a leg channel pad 17B or a medial side pad 11 of the leg pad 10. The protrusion can extend even onto both sides of the medial side pad 11 or the leg channel pad 17B.

[0133] The ankle support means 9 and / or the attachment means for the ankle support means 9 are arranged close to the lower end 10E of the leg pad 10. The at- tachment means and / or the ankle support means 9 should be arranged in the lowermost third of the leg pad 10. Preferably, the attachment means and / or the ankle support means 9 are arranged in the lowermost fourth of the leg pad 10. If the ankle support means 9 is attached to the lowermost medial side pad 11 and / or to a leg channel pad 17B or forms an integral part of such a pad 11 , 17B, the ankle support means 9 can extend to the lowermost end of the leg channel pad 17B or other pad 11 or even below the pad 17B, 11 .

Claims

Claims:

1. A support device (1 ) for supporting the thigh (30) of a goalkeeper in a kneeling position in ice sports or roller sports, the support device (1 ) being configured to be removably attached to a goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) or to form an integral part of a goalkeeper’s leg pad (10), the support device (1 ) comprising at least one attachment portion (2, 3) configured for attaching the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10), and a thigh support portion (4), wherein the support device (1 ) is configured such that when in use, a supporting force exerted via the thigh support portion (4) on the thigh (30) of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain a specific minimum angle (a) between the leg (31 ) and the thigh (30).

2. The support device (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the support device (1 ) comprises a first attachment portion (2) that is configured for attaching the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10) on the medial side of the leg pad (10).

3. The support device (1 ) according to claim 2, wherein the first attachment portion (2) is configured for attaching the support device (1 ) to a pad (17B) of a leg channel pad (17), to a landing pad (12) and / or to a pad (11 ) arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad (10) below the landing pad (12).

4. The support device (1 ) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the support device (1 ) comprises a second attachment portion (3) for attaching the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10) on the lateral side (10D) of the leg pad (10).

5. The support device (1 ) according to claim 4, wherein the second attachment portion (3) is configured for attaching the support device (1 ) to a pad (17A) of a leg channel (17) of the leg pad (10).

6. The support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is configured to extend, when in use, behind the leg (31 ) of the goalkeeper from the medial side (10C) of the leg pad (10) to the lateral side (10D) of the leg pad (10).

7. The support device (1 ) according to the any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is configured such that the thigh support portion (4) contacts the thigh (30) of the goalkeeper in a butterfly position.

8. The support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support device (1 ) is provided with attachment means (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A) for attaching the support device (1 ) to the leg pad (10).

9. The support device (1 ) according to claim 8, wherein the attachment means (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A) are configured to allow the support device (1 ) to be attached to at least two alternative positions in the leg pad (10).

10. The support device (1 ) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the attachment means (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A) are configured for quick-release attachment to the leg pad (10).

11. The support device (1 ) according to any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the attachment means comprise hook and loop fasteners (2A, 2B, 3A).

12. The use of the support device (1 ) according to any of the preceding claims in ice sports or roller sports.

13. A goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) for ice sports or roller sports, the leg pad (10) comprising a support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1-11 and / or attachment means for removably attaching a support device (1 ) according to any of claims 1-11 to the leg pad (10).

14. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 13, wherein the attachment means of the leg pad (10) comprise first attachment means arranged on the medial side (10C) of the leg pad (10).

15. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 14, wherein the first attachment means of the leg pad (10) are arranged in a pad (17B) of a leg channel (17), in a landing pad (12), and / or in a pad (11 ) arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad (10) below the landing pad (12).

16. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the attachment means of the leg pad (10) comprise second attachment means arranged in a pad (17A) of a leg channel (17) of the leg pad (10) on the lateral side (10D) of the leg pad (10).

17. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 13-16, wherein the attachment means of the leg pad (10) are configured to allow the support device (1 ) to be attached to at least two alternative positions in the leg pad (10).

18. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 13-17, wherein the attachment means of the leg pad (10) are configured for quick-release attachment of the support device (1 ).

19. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 13-18, wherein the attachment means of the leg pad (10) comprise hook and loop fasteners.

20. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 13, wherein the support device (1 ) is integrated to the leg pad (10).21 . The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 13-20, wherein the leg pad (10) comprises an ankle support means (9) configured such that a supporting force exerted in a kneeling position of the goalkeeper via the ankle support means (9) on the ankle of the goalkeeper helps the goalkeeper to maintain the skate (26) of the respective leg (30) in a position, in which the heel end of the skate is positioned at the same level or higher than the toe end of the skate (26).

22. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 21 , wherein the ankle support means (9) is configured to support said skate (26) to a position, in which the angle (A) between a longitudinal axis (A) of the skate (26) and a horizontal plane is 5 to 45 degrees.

23. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to claim 22, wherein the ankle support means (9) is configured to support said skate (26) to a position, in which the angle (A) between the longitudinal axis (A) of the skate (26) and the horizontal plane is 10 to 30 degrees.

24. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 21 to 23, wherein the ankle support means (9) is removably attached to the leg pad (10).

25. The goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 21 to 23, wherein the ankle support means (9) is integrated to a leg channel pad (17B), to a medial side pad (11 ) that is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the leg pad (10) below the landing pad (12), or to a medial side pad extending from a knee region to an ankle region.

26. The use of the goalkeeper’s leg pad (10) according to any of claims 13- 25 in ice sports or roller sports.

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