Improved leash attachment

Abstract

Leash (1) has elongate portion (2) with first end (3) connected to a board connecting portion (7). Strap portion (8) connects a first end (9) to an attachment member (11) and a second end (10) to the elongate portion. Fixing point (12) is offset from the first end (9) by offset portion (15). Attachment hole (79) can be into / through the strap portion, the attachment member to pass through the attachment hole. The fixing point can be on a first side and a grip surface on a second opposite side of the strap portion. The attachment member can extend from the strap portion by free length f to a distal end with a fixing region for fastening to the fixing point. The free length can have an engaging portion (57) with engaging length e. The fixing point can be offset by offset length o from exit point (96).

Description

IMPROVED LEASH ATTACHMENTTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to leashes for water sports boards and in particular to the connection of the leash to the water sports board.BACKGROUND

[0002] When using a water sports board, a user typically utilises a leash to stay connected to their board. Water sports boards come in many forms including performance shortboards, longboards, boards with foils, standup paddleboards, kneeboards and bodyboards. A leash allows a user to easily retrieve their water sports board after losing control of and contact with their board, particularly in the case of surfers while being washed by a wave in a wipeout.

[0003] A leash provides safety to the user through means of keeping their board within easy reach. For example, when the user is surfing, a leash can prevent the need for excessive swimming in turbulent and hard to swim ocean conditions. A leash also provides safety to other ocean users by limiting the range a board can travel uncontrolled in a wipeout situation enabling other ocean users to maintain a safe distance from the board being propelled by a wave uncontrolled.

[0004] A leash keeps the board in a safe proximity when the board is separated from the user and preferably has a limited effect on the board and user while surfing, paddling or sitting waiting for waves. Ideally the leash has minimal drag on the board or user when surfing or paddling and as a result a reduced profile of the leash is ideal. While a reduced profile is ideal for reducing drag this can lead to damage to the board where the leash interacts with the surface of the board when under tension for example when the board is being pulled by a wave while the user has fallen off the back of the wave. To reduce the chance of damage a railsaver portion (aka railsaver or rail saver) is incorporated into the leash. The railsaver portion consists of a wider cross-section in the area of the leash that comes into contact with the railor edge of the board distributing the force of the leash over a wider section of the edge of the board reducing the chance of the edge of the board becoming damaged.

[0005] Leash plugs vary in size and position and are installed during manufacturing of the surfboard. Leash plugs mostly consist of a blind cylindrical hole that below the opening has a perpendicular pin that is secured to the vertical walls of the cylindrical hole. The pin forms an anchor point that allows for a flexible leash attachment member to be threaded down the cylindrical hole, under the pin and back up and out the cylindrical hole where it can be secured, effectively attaching the leash to the plug. Leash plugs are compact in size and only allow for a very small crosssectioned attachment member, loop or fixing to be passed through and secured to. Due to the size and requirements of the attachment member to conform around the shape of the pin and return back out of the plug for securing, attachment members ideally consist of strong and flexible material with a narrow cross-section. Examples of such material are forms of string, cord, rope, and webbing.

[0006] In current forms, the railsaver portion of the leash is attached to the board at a leash plug by an attachment member formed from a piece of string or narrow cord. The string is knotted into a loop, then fed around a pin in the leash plug. Then a flap on the end of the railsaver is passed through the string loops and fixed back to the railsaver typically using hook and loop type fastenings.

[0007] United States patent application publication number 2008 / 0160848 discloses a leash attachment means intended to make attaching and detaching the leash from the plug of a board more convenient and manageable. In addition to the typical attachment member of a loop of string or cord, a narrow strap is alternatively provided to pass around the pin of the board plug and be fastened and other types of attachment member are also disclosed such as an adjustable hook. These other types of attachment member are non-flexible and different in operation to flexible cord or strap types of attachment member and instead allow the end of the railsaver to be clamped to the board plug. Such non-flexible attachment members can provide a stiff protrusion above the leash plug in operation that is unpleasant to stand on so are not in known use, hence the use of flexible attachment members.However, the flexible attachment members of the loop of string or cord or the strap are long for ease of use, so the end of the railsaver is not located over the board plug and the attachment member can be worn or cut by the edge of the leash plug of a board.

[0008] With the many varying tail shapes and dimensions of boards, the position of the leash plug can vary considerably from board to board. Often the position of the leash plug can be very close to the edges of the surfboard requiring the railsaver to be positioned very close to the plug to prevent the narrow form of the attachment member from damaging the fibreglass edges of the board.

[0009] Traction pads have become very popular on surfboards. The preferred position of traction pads is as close to the tail of the board as possible. Surfboard manufacturers now position the leash plugs very close to the tail to allow for the application of a traction pad. This positioning of the plug again reduces the required distance the railsaver portion must be secured in relation to the leash plug.

[0010] Being able to attach the railsaver within the required distance to not cause damage to the edge of the board is often very difficult due to the short length required of the attachment member. Having a very short attachment member or loop makes it very difficult to thread down through the leash plug, under the pin and back up due to the required flexible properties of the loop, and the small tight space of the leash plug. Often a tool for example a tiny screwdriver or alien key is used. Once passed through the leash plug, securing the small attachment member loop to the wider profile railsaver portion is also very difficult due to the wide dimensions of the railsaver in comparison to the required small dimensions of the attachment member. As a result, the railsaver portion bunches up where it is secured to the attachment member forming a bulge, increasing drag, discomfort when paddling and a trip hazard when surfing.

[0011] Due to the outlined difficulties of being able to thread a short attachment member through the leash plug and being able to secure a short attachment member loop to the wider railsaver portion of the leash, many leashes are installed with an attachment member that is too long for the railsaver to be effective and as a resultsurfboards are often damaged on the edge of the board near the leash attachment. Damage to the fibreglass on the rail is often not an easy repair and requires a skilled repairer to fix.

[0012] Another problem with an attachment member that is too great in length is the risk of finger injury to the surfer. Surfers instinctively grab hold of their boards by the section of the leash close to the tail of the board as this provides good grip and good floatation assistance from the board when being washed by waves. If the narrow attachment member is long enough to allow one or two fingers to grip the narrow attachment member while holding the leash there is potential for the fingers to be crushed between the hard surface of the board and the narrow width of the attachment member, causing major finger injuries and even finger loss when a wave pulls hard on the board. When the leash comes under significant tension, finger trap injuries can occur, resulting in the potential for significant damage to the finger of the user, such as distal phalanx fractures including Seymour fractures, fingertip amputations, de-gloving and nail bed damage. If a surfer has their finger within a loop formed by an attachment member and the board is violently twisted the finger can also become entrapped and a surfer can be dragged by their finger causing major finger injuries.

[0013] Another problem with current leash attachments is the wear caused by the leash plug on the leash attachment member. When installed by the board manufacturers the leash plugs are glued into a blind hole in the top surface of a board. To prevent the leash plug from sinking below the surface of the board small tabs hold the plug in place while the glue cures. Once cured the sacrificial top section of the leash plug including the tabs is ground level with the top surface of the board creating a smooth surface with the cylindrical hole of the leash plug accessible. This method of manufacture creates a sharp edge where the cylindrical hole of the leash plug meets the ground down surface of the leash plug. During use the leash pulls in any direction causing the attachment member to be pulled against the sharp edge of the leash plug causing wear and premature failure of the leash.

[0014] Yet another problem with current leash attachments, is during use, a leash is free to face any direction at any time. This causes tangling issues while surfing where the leash gets wrapped around a foot while standing up or is stood on creating discomfort and loss of balance. Another disadvantage of a leash that has no directional control at the board attachment, is when facing in many directions the leash creates more drag when paddling and surfing. In competitive surfing these are problems that can determine the results of a competition and as a result effect a surfer’s income and career.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including: an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion; the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length, wherein: the attachment member has, in use, an engaging portion that passes at least a round a pin in a recess in a leash plug of the water sports board and up to the offset portion of the strap portion; the engaging portion having an engaging length of less than thirty-five millimetres such that, in use, the first end of the strap portion is at or projecting over, past or around a proximal edge portion of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board.

[0016] The leash may be known as a tether. The elongate portion may be known as a cord. The second end of the elongate portion may be opposite the first end of the elongate portion. The strap portion may be known as a railsaver. The second end of the strap portion may be opposite the first end of the strap portion.

[0017] The attachment member may be separate from the strap portion, the attachment member including a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of aboard leash plug and then fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point. For example, the attachment member may be a length of string or cord that is knotted to form a continuous loop, a portion of which becomes, in use, the distal portion.}

[0018] Alternatively, the attachment member may be fixed to the strap portion and extend from the first end of the strap portion, the attachment member including a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of a board leash plug and fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point.

[0019] Alternatively, the attachment member may include a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of a board leash plug and fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point.

[0020] The distal portion of the attachment member may be a fixing portion fastenable to the fixing point of the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash. For example, the fixing portion may include hook or loop type fastening for fastening to a loop or hook fastener at the fixing point. Alternatively, the fixing portion may include a buckle or holes for a buckle on the fixing point.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, the distal portion of the attachment member may include a loop portion.

[0022] The fixing point may include a flap securable to the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash. For example, the flap may be passed through the loop portion, then secured to the strap portion using a buckle or a hook and loop type fastener.

[0023] Alternatively, the fixing point may include a hook or button-like feature around which, in use, the loop portion is passed. For example, the loop portion may be tensioned or stretched over a protrusion with a wide section and a reduced securing section. When the leash is installed, the loop has a bias to remain secured Alternatively the fixing point may include a press stud, snap fit, clip or cleat.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the leash may further include a fit assist tab fixed to the loop portion. For example, the fit assist tab may be provided to assist theuser to grip the tab and feed through or tension the attachment member when fitting or fastening the loop to the fixing point or when unfastening the loop from the fixing point.

[0025] In use, a distance from the first end of the strap portion to the distal end of the attachment member may be an attachment member free length.

[0026] The attachment member free length may be greater than the offset length.

[0027] The attachment member free length may be at least five millimetres longer than the offset length. Preferably, the attachment member free length may be at least seven or at least ten millimetres longer than the offset length. Additionally or alternatively, the attachment member free length may be less than 35 millimetres longer than the offset length or less than 30 millimetres longer than the offset length, preferably less than 25mm longer than the offset length, more preferably less than 20 millimetres longer than the offset length and most preferably less than 15 millimetres longer than the offset length.

[0028] The offset length may be between forty and ninety-five percent of the attachment member effective length. Alternatively, the offset length may be between sixty and ninety-five percent of the attachment member length. Alternatively, the offset length may be between eighty and ninety percent of the attachment member length.

[0029] Alternatively, the offset length may be at least five millimetres. Preferably, the offset length may be at least ten millimetres or at least twenty millimetres, more preferably at least forty millimetres, but may be at least sixty millimetres or even at least eighty millimetres.

[0030] Alternatively, the offset length may be at least one tenth of a total length of the strap portion. For example, the offset length may be at least one sixth of the total length of the strap portion, preferably at least one quarter, or more preferably at least one third or even at least one half of the total length of the strap portion.

[0031] The board connecting portion may include a stabilising portion at or towards the first end of the strap portion and, in use, projecting over, past or around the proximal edge of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board; the stabilising portion including an attachment hole provided into or through the strap portion, in use the attachment member passing through the attachment hole. For example, the attachment member may, in use, be passed through the attachment hole, around the leash plug pin in the leash plug recess and back through the attachment hole in the stabilising portion, then fixed to the fixing point.

[0032] The attachment hole may be a slot in the stabilising portion forming a slot or recess in the end of the board connecting portion. For example, the attachment hole may provide a semicircular recess or a slot which may connect into a circular hole in the stabilising portion. The width of the recess or slot may be between five millimetres and ten millimetres wide, preferably between six and seven millimetres wide.

[0033] Alternatively, the attachment hole may be a hole in the stabilising portion located at the first end of the strap portion, forming a hole through the board connecting portion. For example, the attachment hole may be a substantially circular or oval hole surrounded by material of the stabilising portion. The hole may preferably be smaller than a typical width and / or length of a recess of a leash plug in a water sports board to protect the attachment member from any sharp edges at the top of the recess in the leash plug. For example, for a typical rectangular recess of a leash plug, an oval hole may be used, having a width of less than the typical width of a recess in a leash plug and having a length of less than the typical length of a recess in a leash plug. The typical dimensions of the top edge of the recess of a leash plug are a width of between nine to twelve millimetres and a length of between fifteen and twenty millimetres. The width of the oval hole may be between six and seven millimetres. The length of an oval hole may be between eight and thirteen millimetres.

[0034] The fixing point may be provided on a first (upwards facing) side of the strap portion; and a grip surface is provided on a second opposite (board facing) side ofthe strap portion. For example, the first side of the strap portion may be primarily upwards facing in use and the second side of the strap portion may be primarily downwards facing or board facing in use.

[0035] The grip surface may provide, in use, a coefficient of friction between the strap portion and an upper surface of the water sports board. This may be beneficial for example to prevent rotation of the strap portion relative to the water sports board about the leash plug. So, if, for example, a user positions the strap portion facing rearwards out of the way, rotation away from that position may be resisted.

[0036] The grip surface may be manufactured from a form of neoprene or Ethylenevinyl acetate (EVA). EVA may also be known as polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA).

[0037] The attachment member may extend from the strap portion by a free length to a distal end, the attachment member including a loop portion at or near the distal end (for fastening to the fixing point).

[0038] The free length of the attachment member may be the sum of at least the offset length of the offset portion and an engaging length of an engaging portion.

[0039] The engaging portion of the attachment member may be of a minimal length to pass, in use, to around the pin of the leash plug and back to the strap portion.This may for example ensure that the strap portion protects between the attachment member and an upper edge of the leash plug recess.

[0040] The engaging portion of the attachment member may be less than thirty millimetres in length. Preferably the engaging portion of the attachment member is less than twenty-five millimetres in length and more preferably less than twenty millimetres in length and most preferably less than fifteen millimetres in length.

[0041] When in use, the leash plug pin may typically be orientated substantially laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the water sports board, so the engaging length of the attachment member may be biased towards a longitudinal plane through the water sports board, providing a bias on the strap portion of the boardconnecting portion of the leash to extend rearwards away from a traction pad and / or a user on the board.

[0042] The attachment member may be fixed to the strap portion at an anchor point located at least thirty millimetres from the first end of the strap portion and the attachment member extends past the first end of the strap portion.

[0043] The first end of the strap portion may be movable relative to the anchor point of the attachment member. For example, the strap portion may be flexible to, in use, allow a flexible portion of the strap portion to be reduced in length, for example like a concertina. This may allow the free length of the attachment member to be increased by an additional free length to give a longer effective free length of the attachment member to allow the attachment member to be more easily threaded around a leash plug pin on a water sports board and then secured to the fixing point. Then, when the attachment member is ready to fix or fasten to the fixing point, the flexible portion of the strap portion may be straightened out, bringing the fixing point closer to the fixing region of the attachment member to allow the two to be fastened together.

[0044] The strap portion may form or include a sleeve, the attachment member passing through said sleeve. Optionally, at least a portion of the sleeve between the fixing point and the anchor point may be may be a flexible portion of the sleeve.

[0045] The board connecting portion may be connected to the first end of the elongate portion by a rotatable connector or swivel.

[0046] The second end of the elongate portion may be opposite the first end of the elongate portion.

[0047] The user connecting portion may be a cuff for wrapping around a limb of a user.

[0048] The user connecting portion may be connected to the second end of the elongate portion by a rotatable connector or swivel.

[0049] Another aspect of the invention may provide a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein: a stabilising portion is provided on the board connecting portion at or towards the first end of the strap portion, the stabilising portion, in use, projecting over, past or around the proximal edge of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board; an attachment hole is provided into or through the stabilising portion, in use the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

[0050] The attachment hole may form a slot or recess in the end of the board connecting portion. For example, the attachment hole may provide a semicircular recess in the stabilising portion, or a slot which may connect into a hole in the stabilising portion. The width of the recess may be between five and ten millimetres, preferably between six and seven millimetres.

[0051] Alternatively, the attachment hole may form a hole through the board connecting portion. For example, the attachment hole may be a substantially circular or oval hole surrounded by material of the stabilising portion. The hole may preferably be smaller than a typical width and / or length of a recess of a leash plug in a water sports board to protect the attachment member from any sharp edges at the top of the recess in the leash plug. For example, for a typical rectangular recess of a leash plug, an oval hole may be used, having a width of less than the typical width of a recess in a leash plug and having a length of less than the typical length of a recess in a leash plug. The width of the oval hole may be between six and seven millimetres and the length of the oval hole may be between ten and twenty millimetres.

[0052] The fixing point may be located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end ofthe strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

[0053] Another aspect of the invention may provide a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein: the fixing point is provided on a first side of the strap portion; and a grip surface is provided on a second opposite side of the strap portion.

[0054] The grip surface may provide, in use, a coefficient of friction between the strap portion and an upper surface of the water sports board. This may be beneficial to resist rotation, in use, of the strap portion relative to the water sports board about the leash plug.

[0055] The grip surface may be manufactured from a form of neoprene or Ethylenevinyl acetate (EVA). EVA is also known as polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA).

[0056] The fixing point may be located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

[0057] A stabilising portion may be provided at or towards the first end of the strap portion and an attachment hole may be provided into or through the stabilising portion; in use, the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

[0058] Another aspect of the invention provides a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a secondend, and a fixing point, wherein: the attachment member extends from the strap portion by a free length to a distal end, the attachment member including a fixing region at the distal end for fastening to the fixing point; the free length of the attachment member includes an engaging portion having an engaging length; in use, the engaging portion extending from the strap portion into a leash plug recess, around a leash plug pin and back to the strap portion.

[0059] The engaging portion of the attachment member may be of a minimal length to pass, in use, to around the pin of the leash plug and back to the strap portion.This may for example ensure that the strap portion protects between the attachment member and an upper edge of the leash plug recess such as the proximal edge.The edges of the recess can be sharp.

[0060] The engaging portion of the attachment member may be less than 35mm in length. Preferably the engaging portion of the attachment member is less than 30mm in length or less than 25mm in length and more preferably less than 20mm in length and most preferably less than 15mm in length.

[0061] When in use, the leash plug pin may be orientated substantially laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the water sports board, so the engaging length of the attachment member may be biased towards a longitudinal plane through the water sports board, providing a bias on the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash to extend rearwards away from a traction pad and / or a user on the board.

[0062] The fixing point may be located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length; the free length of the attachment member being the sum of at least the offset length of the offset portion and an engaging length of an engaging portion.

[0063] Another aspect of the invention provides a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strapportion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein; the attachment member is fixed to the strap portion at least thirty millimetres from the first end of the strap portion and extends past the first end of the strap portion.

[0064] The first end of the strap portion may be movable relative to the attachment member. For example, the strap portion may be flexible to, in use, to allow the attachment member to be threaded around a leash plug pin on a water sports board and then secured to the fixing point.

[0065] The strap portion may form or include a sleeve, the attachment member passing through said sleeve.

[0066] The fixing point may be located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

[0067] At or towards the first end of the strap portion an attachment hole may be provided into or through the strap portion, in use, the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

[0068] Another aspect of the invention provides a leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion; the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member; the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, the attachment member having a first end and a second end, the first end of the attachment member being connected to the strap portion, wherein; the attachment member exits the strap portion at an exit point at or towards the first end of the strap portion, the fixing point being located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion; the fixing point being offset from the attachment member exit point on the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0069] In the drawings:

[0070] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a water sports board without a leash.

[0072] Figure 3 is a sectional partial side view of a water sports board including leash plug.

[0073] Figure 4 is a partial perspective view of a leash being installed on a water sports board.

[0074] Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 4 during installation.

[0075] Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 4 after installation.

[0076] Figure 7 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of a modification to the leash of Figure7.

[0078] Figure 9 is a partial perspective view of a modification to the leash of Figure8.

[0079] Figure 10 is a partial side view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 11 is a partial side view of the leash of Figure 10 in a different state.

[0081] Figure 12 is a partial side view of the leash of Figure 11 in a fastened state.

[0082] Figure 13 is a sectional partial side view of the leash of Figures 10 to 12 installed on a water sports board.

[0083] Figure 14 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0084] Figure 15 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 14 in a different state.

[0085] Figure 16 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 17 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0087] Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0088] Figure 19 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 18 in an eccentrically loaded or wipeout orientation.

[0089] Figure 20 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0090] Figure 21 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0091] Figure 22 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0092] Figure 23 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0093] Figure 24 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention installed on a water sports board.

[0094] Figure 25 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention in an unfastened state.

[0095] Figure 26 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 25 in a partially fastened state.

[0096] Figure 27 is a partial side view of the leash of Figures 25 and 26 in a fastened state.

[0097] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a separate attachment member according to at least one aspect of the present invention.

[0098] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the attachment member of Figure 28 fastened around a leash plug pin.

[0099] Figure 30 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention being installed on a water sports board.

[0100] Figure 31 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 28 installed on a water sports board.

[0101] Figure 32 is a partial perspective view of a leash according to at least one aspect of the present invention being installed on a water sports board.

[0102] Figure 33 is a partial perspective view of the leash of Figure 30 installed on a water sports board.DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0103] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like, similar or equivalent features are allocated common reference numerals.

[0104] Referring initially to Figure 1 , there is shown a leash 1 having an elongate portion 2 also known as a cord. A first end 3 of the elongate portion 2 is connected to a board connecting portion 7. This connection is preferably by a swivel 5 to allow axial rotation between the elongate portion 2 and the board connecting portion. Theboard connecting portion 7 includes a strap portion 8 connected at a first end 9 to an attachment member 11 and at a second end 10 to the elongate portion 2.

[0105] Between the first and second ends 9, 10 of the strap portion 8 is provided a fixing point 12, offset from the first end 9 of the strap portion by an offset portion 15. The fixing point 12 in this example is provided by a fold 18 in a flap 13 which is fixed to the strap portion 8 at the fold 18 and is fastened to the strap portion, by a fixing point fastener 14, such as a hook and loop fastening.

[0106] Figure 2 shows a water sports board 20, in this example a surfboard. An optional traction pad 21 is positioned near the tail of the board and fins 22 can be seen protruding from beneath the board. A leash plug 23 is shown in close proximity to the upper edge 24 of the board, this edge being where damage is most often caused by leashes.

[0107] Figure 3 shows a sectional side elevation of the tail end of a water sports board 20 including the leash plug 23. The installed leash plug 23 includes a pin 25 that is fixed across recess 26. The recess is a blind hole which typically has D- profile in side view and a rectangular profile when viewed from above. The recess 26 has vertical surfaces 28 that meet with the board upper surface 29 forming a sharp edge 27 around the recess that causes wear on leash attachment members. In addition to the upper edge 24, the lower edge 30 of the board is also an area in which damage caused by a leash is common.

[0108] Figure 4 shows one form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 being installed on a water sports board 20. The board connecting portion 7 includes a narrow attachment member 11 in the form of a loop that is threaded through the leash plug 23 in board 20 by passing under leash plug pin 25. The attachment member 11 can be selectively secured at fixing point 12 by passing over the return member or flap 13, then folding the flap 13 at the fixing point 12, folding the flat and connecting together the fastening surfaces 31 , 32 of the fixing point fastener 14. Fixing point 12 is offset from the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8 so that once installed, the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 is close to the leash plug 23, ensuring the narrow profile of the attachment member 11 cannot damage theedge 24 of water sports board 20. Offsetting the fixing point 12 by an offset portion15 of the strap portion 8 allows the attachment member 11 to be long enough to be easily threaded under leash pin 25, so between the pin 25 and the proximal edge 33 of the recess of the leash plug into the recess 26 in the leash plug, around the pin 25 and back out between the pin 25 and the distal edge of the leash plug. Offsetting the fixing point 12 by an offset portion 15 of the strap portion 8 also allows the attachment member 11 to be short enough to pull the end 9 of the strap portion over the proximal edge 33 of the recess 26 to both protect the attachment member from damage from the sharp edge of the recess and to bias the board connecting portion of the leash rearwards relative to the water sports board.

[0109] Figure 5 shows a possible addition step in installing the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 of Figure 4. In this example, the offset portion 15 of the strap portion 8 is sufficiently flexible such that when flexed, the distance between the fixing point 12 and narrowing point or first end 9 can be reduced, making securing the loop of attachment member 11 at fixing point 12 easier.

[0110] Figure 6 shows the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 of Figure 4 and Figure 5 installed on the board. The offset portion 15 of the strap portion 8 has a bias to being extended, so once installed, the extended distance between fixing point 12 and the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 ensure that attachment member 11 maintains the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 close to leash plug 23, preventing any damage to the board 20 at edge 24. In Figures 4, 5 and 6, the length of the attachment member 11 is exaggerated (overly long) to enable features to be seen, but preferably the attachment member is of a length to allow fixing but pull the end 9 of the strap portion over the proximal edge 33 of the recess 26.

[0111] Figure 7 shows one form of the leash 1 , including railsaver or board connecting portion 7 comprising fixing point 12, a narrowing point at the first end 9 and attachment member 11 having a single profile section 41 and in its distal portion16 a loop portion 42.

[0112] Figure 8 shows another form of the leash 1 , similar to that of Figure 7, but in this form the attachment member 11 comprises a fit assist tab 43 that assists inthreading through leash plugs. The fit assist tab can also be used to help tension the attachment member back towards the fixing point during installation of the leash to a board. The fit assist tab 43 can be manufactured separate from the attachment member, then assembled. Alternatively, the fit assist tab may be formed as part of the attachment member. The fit assist tab can be used with all embodiments of the present invention and it can be manufactured from a variety of materials including narrow webbing.

[0113] Figure 9 shows another form of the improved leash attachment similar to that of Figure 8, but the fit assist tab 43 also includes a finger loop 44. Once the fit assist tab 43 is passed through the leash plug (not shown), a finger can be inserted in finger loop 44 to assist in pulling the attachment member 11 through the leash plug.

[0114] Figure 10 shows a partial side view of another form of the leash 1 . The fixing point 12 is provided by the fixing point fastener 14 which in this example is a hook type fastener. The strap portion 8 includes a sleeve 51 , inside which the attachment member passes, being attached to the strap member at the anchor point 53. A region of the sleeve 51 between the fixing point 12 and the anchor point 53 is a variable length section 52, able to crumple or concertina to reduce in length relative to the attachment member as shown in Figure 11 .

[0115] Returning to Figure 10, the attachment member 11 exits the sleeve 51 at the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 and extends as free portion 54 for a free length f up to its distal end 16. The inside offset portion 55 of the attachment member is located between the first end 9 and the fixing point 12 and has an offset length o. The outer offset portion 56 also has the offset length o but is towards the distal end 16 of the attachment member, immediately inside and overlapping with the loop portion 42 of the attachment member. The loop portion 42 has a loop elongation length p when the loop portion 42 is elongated as shown in Figure 10 (when the fit assist tab 43 is used to elongate the attachment member 11 ). The portion of the attachment member between the inner offset portion 55 and the outer offset portion 56 is the engaging portion 57 which is the portion of the attachment member that, in use,extends down from the end 9 of the strap portion 8, passes around the pin of the leash plug in the board and back up to the end 9 of the strap portion as shown in Figure 13.

[0116] It should be noted that, when elongated as in Figure 10, the loop portion 42 appears long as it does not extend much laterally (not visible in the side view Figures 10 and 11) when elongated. However, when the loop portion is engaged around the fixing point fastener 14 as shown in Figures 12 and 13, it is distorted into a more laterally extending shape (not visible in the side view Figures 12 and 13, but is shown in the perspective view of Figure 14) so would appear shorter in such side views.

[0117] It should also be noted that the loop portion 42 overlaps with the outer offset portion 56 and indeed the loop portion includes some of the offset portion as, when fastened in use, the loop extends around the fixing point fastener 14 before reaching the fixing point 12. So, while the portion of length p’ of the loop portion 42 that engages with the fixing point 12 is outside of the outer offset portion 56, the remaining length p” that passes around the sides of the fixing point fastener 14 and joins back to the single profile section of the attachment member 11 is both part of the loop portion 42 and part of the outer offset portion 56.

[0118] Returning to Figure 11 , the free length f of the free portion 54 of the attachment member is the sum of the loop elongation length p of the loop portion 42, the offset length of the outer offset portion 56 (as the attachment member needs to pass the offset portion 15 of the strap portion 8 to reach the fixing point 12) and the engaging length e. The engaging length e is the length of the engaging portion 57 of the attachment member 11 . As noted above the engaging portion 57 is the length or portion of attachment member provided to pass from the first end 9 of the strap portion into a leash plug recess, around the leash plug pin and back up to the first end of the strap portion, the offset length o being required to complete the installed path to the fixing point. The engaging length e is kept minimal to keep the first end 9 of the strap portion as close to the pin of a leash plug when installed on a board. As this is not affected by the position of the leash plug from board to board, only thedepth and diameter of the leash plug pin, this engagement length can be kept very short. It should be noted that the proportions of the figures are not necessarily accurate.

[0119] While Figure 10 shows the end of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 in a relaxed, uninstalled state, Figure 11 shows the same end of the board connecting portion 7 but with the variable length section contracted, exposing an additional length a of the attachment member. So contraction of the variable length section 52 of the strap portion 8 increases the free length of the attachment member the additional length a to an extended free length f’. The extended free length of the attachment member f’ is the sum of the original free length f and the additional length a, and this additional length a can make the attachment member easier to pass around the leash plug pin.

[0120] Then as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the variable length section 52 of the strap portion returns to its original extended length and the distal portion 16 of the attachment member 11 can be hooked around the fixing point fastener 14.

[0121] Figure 13 shows the end of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 fitted to a leash plug 23 in a board 20. The fit assist tab 43 can be used to help feed the attachment member around the pin 25 of the leash plug and to then tension the attachment member to hook it around the fixing point fastener 14. The tension in the attachment member can also ensure that the variable length section 52 extends and remains extended, particularly when a tension is applied to the board connecting portion 7 of the leash from the elongate portion. This pulls the end 9 of the strap portion 8 over the proximal edge 33 of the recess 26.

[0122] A perspective view of the installed the board connecting portion 7 of leash 1 of Figure 13 is shown in Figure 14. Figure 15 shows the same arrangement immediately prior to or just after release of the attachment member 11 from the fixing point fastener 14, with variable length section 52 in a compressed or contracted state.

[0123] The hook-like fixing point fastener 14 comprises a wide top 60 above a narrower base 61 to capture the attachment member 11. Additionally, side supports 62 can be included to provide retaining channels 63 to further inhibit accidental release of the attachment member 11 from the fixing point fastener 14.

[0124] Figure 16 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 including strap portion 8 comprising fixing point 12 offset from the narrowing point or first end 9 and attachment member 11 including a loop. Fixing point 12 comprises a wide protrusion 60 and a reduced section 61 that selectively secures attachment member 11 . Once installed attachment member 11 has a bias to stay at the reduced section 61 but can be uninstalled by creating slack or stretching the loop formed by attachment member 11 over the wide protrusion 60. A further means of securing attachment member 11 at fixing point 12 is shown with a snap fit between surfaces 68 and 69. For attachment member 11 to be unsecured from fixing point 12, surfaces 68 and 69 must be expanded or attachment member 11 must be compressed.

[0125] Figure 17 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 installed on a board. The board connecting portion 7 includes fixing point 12 offset from the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 and also includes attachment member 11 forming a loop. Fixing point fastener 14 comprises return member or flap 13 selectively secured by a press stud 74. Once installed the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 is positioned close to leash plug 23 preventing damage to board 20. Although the attachment member is shown with excess length in Figure 17 to allow the proximal edge 33 of the recess in the leash plug 23 to be seen, preferably the length of the attachment member is selected to minimise excess length and to pull the first end 9 of the strap portion over the proximal edge 33 of the leash plug 23.

[0126] Figure 18 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash installed on a board. The fixing point 12 is offset from the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 by the offset portion 15. In addition to the attachment member 11 , the board connecting portion 7 also includes a wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 that extends beyond the first end 9 of the strap portion 8. This membercan be termed a wear reducing member because it can have a smoother shaped surface 80 for preventing wear on the attachment member 11 , particularly if the attachment member exits the strap portion back from the first end 9 of the strap portion 8. Rather than rubbing on the sharp surfaces of the edge of the leash plug, attachment member 11 rubs on the reduced friction smooth shaped surface 80.

[0127] However this member can also be termed a stabilising member 78 as it can form an attachment hole 79 that attachment member 11 passes through before and after threading under pin 25 of the leash plug. The extension of the stabilising member 78 past the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 provides stability by extending forwards of the first end of the strap portion, around and / or over the leash plug. With the short engaging length of the attachment member made possible by the use of the offset, the underside of the stabilising member 78 and the underside of the first end of the strap portion are held close to or against the upper surface of the water sports board. This provides a bias for the board connecting portion 7 of the leash to lie rearwards relative to the water sports board. Optionally, grip surface 81 on the underside of the stabilising member and / or under the first end 9 of the strap portion 8 can be provided such that their interaction with the surface of board 20 provides a frictional constraint discouraging rotation of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash relative to the water sports board around the leash plug. This encourages the board connecting portion of the leash to remain in the rearward biased direction that the board connecting portion 7 preferably faces when installed.

[0128] Figure 19 shows the board connecting portion 7 of the leash of Figure 18 installed on a board, the board connecting portion 7 now being shown in a wipeout orientation. The board connecting portion 7 flexes at region of flex 85 ensuring no or very little mechanical advantage force is applied to the leash plug at pin 25 by a force on leash 1 and the attachment member 11 remains protected by the smooth shaped surface 80 of wear reducing member or stabilising member 78. The elastic properties of the strap portion 8 at the region of flex 85 return the board connecting portion 7 to the preferred installed orientation once the applied force is removed.

[0129] Figure 20 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 installed on a board. The fixing point 12 is offset from narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8. A wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 is provided extending beyond the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8, preventing wear on the attachment member 11 by having a smooth shaped surface 80. The stabilising member forms an enclosure or attachment hole 79 that attachment member 11 can be held captive in after threading under pin 25 of the leash plug.The substantially longitudinal plane path of the attachment member around the laterally orientated leash plug pin 25 creates a directional bias for the board connecting portion 7 of leash 1 when installed. The strap portion 8 also comprises snap fit 86 that retains attachment member 11 between the first end 9 of the strap portion and the fixing point 12.

[0130] Figure 21 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 similar to that of Figure 20, installed on a board. The fixing point 12 is offset from narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8. A wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 is provided extending beyond the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8, preventing wear on the attachment member 11 by having a smooth shaped surface and providing improved stability be extending at least partially over the leash plug 23. However, in this embodiment, the attachment hole 79 formed into the wear reducing member 78 is a slot, semi-circle or other shape cut into the end of the wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 at the first end 9 of the strap portion 8.

[0131] Figure 22 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 similar to that of Figures 18 and 19, installed on a board. A wear reducing member and / or stabilising member 78 is provided extending beyond the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8, preventing wear on the attachment member 11 by having a smooth shaped surface. The stabilising member extends over and continues forward (relative to the water sports board 20) of the leash plug (not visible as obscured by the stabilising member 78) However, the attachment hole 79 formed into the stabilising member 78 is a figure of eight shaped hole, or effectively a large hole 91 and a small hole 92 connected by a slot 93, each cut into the end of thestabilising member 78 at the first end 9 of the strap portion 8. The large hole can be positioned over the leash plug when threading the attachment member around the pin 25, but then the whole strap portion including the stabilising member 78 can be slid forwards relative to the board 20, with the attachment member passing from the large hole through the slot 93 into the small hole, preferably before the attachment member is fixed to the fixing point 12. In this way the stabilising member provides only a small attachment hole over the leash plug and thus can provide a larger protective margin between the edge of the small hole and the sharp edges at the top of the leash plug without making installation overly difficult and provide a greater longitudinal length for stability.

[0132] Figure 23 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 similar to that of Figures 18 and 22, installed on a water sports board 20. A wear reducing member and / or stabilising member 78 is provided extending beyond the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion 8, providing improved stability and preventing wear on the attachment member 11 by having a smooth shaped surface 80. However, the stabilising member forms an attachment hole 79 that is largely circular, with a slot 93 cut through to the tip of the stabilising member 78. As with the embodiment shown in Figure 22, the slot can be used to slide the whole strap portion including the wear reducing member 78 forwards relative to the board 20, with the attachment member passing from in front of the stabilising member, through the slot 93 into the attachment hole 79, which can therefore again be a relatively small hole.In this way the wear reducing member and or stabilising member 78 can provide only a small attachment hole over the leash plug and thus can provide a larger protective margin between the edge of the small hole and the sharp edges at the top of the leash plug without making installation overly difficult.

[0133] Figure 24 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 similar to that of Figures 18 and 22, installed on a board. The wear reducing member and / or stabilising member 78 is very similar to the equivalent feature in Figure 23, the shape of the slot 93 between the arms 94 of the wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 form a claw-like shape to ride over the top of the plug.

[0134] Figures 25 to 27 show an arrangement very similar to Figure 24, but the strap portion 8 of the board connecting portion 7 or railsaver of the leash has two fastening flaps, the flap 13 similar to earlier Figures and outer flap 95. The first end 9 of the strap portion 8 has a slot 93 between two arms 94 of a stabilising member 78, again forming a claw-like portion that rides over the top of the plug.

[0135] The attachment member 11 is shown as a piece of cord / string that is sewn together along part of its length forming the single profile section 41 of the attachment member and having a loop portion 42 at the distal end 16.

[0136] A fit assist tab 43 is shown at the distal end of the attachment member. The fit assist tab can be fed through the plug around the pin (not shown) then used to pull the attachment member around the pin, then back over the flap 13 as shown in Figure 26.

[0137] Returning now to Figure 25, the base of the attachment member 11 is sewn (or otherwise anchored) into the strap portion 8, exiting the first end 9 of the strap portion at an exit point 96. As in Figures 1 to 24, the exit point 96 where the attachment member exits the strap portion is effectively the first end of the strap portion, i.e. the effective first end of the strap portion. Any additional non-tensioned material such as, for example, the wear reducing member or stabilising member 78 in Figures 18 to 24, is not part of the strap that is actively in tension when the leash cord is in tension. So, the end of the strap portion should be considered as being at the exit point 96 of the attachment member from the strap portion. The arms 94 either side of the slot 93 in Figures 24 to 26 are clearly beyond the effective first end 9 of the strap portion 8 at the exit point 96 and are not part of the offset length “o” of the offset portion 15.

[0138] The offset length “o” extends from the exit point 96 at the effective first end 9 of the strap portion 8, to the base of the flap 13 which forms the fixing point 12 for the loop portion of the attachment member to be seated around, as shown in Figure 26.

[0139] Figure 26 shows the attachment member in the position it would be in when fitted around the pin of a plug in a board. The single profile section 41 of theattachment member 11 includes the engaging portion 57 which is bent downwards after the attachment member exits the strap portion 8 at the exit point 96, then bends around and back up through the slot 93 with the loop portion 42 being placed around the base of the flap 13 which is the fixing point 12. The base of the flap 13 is preferably either narrowed as shown in Figures 4 to 6 or made from thicker or multiple layers of material in the centre and thinner or a single layer of material at the outer edges, as shown in Figures 25 and 26. These types of arrangement allow the outer edges of the base of the flap 13 to deform inwardly towards each other, assisting the loop portion 42 of the attachment member 11 to be at least partially retained or biased into the fixing point 12 at the base of the flap 13. This adds to the security of the fixing. Figures 25 to 27 also show the outer flap 95 which further enhances the security of the fixing, and also as shown in Figure 26, the fit assist tab can include fastening surfaces to engage with or fasten to the fastening surfaces 31 and 32 of the flap 13 and strap portion 8, also enhancing the security of the fixing.

[0140] As shown in Figure 26, when the loop portion 42 of the attachment member 11 is around the fixing point 12 at the base of the flap 13, a fastening surface of the fit assist tab 43 can be engaged with the fastening surface 32 on the strap portion 8. Another fastening surface can be provided on the opposite side of the fit assist tab 43 to engage with the fastening surface 31 under the flap 13 when the flap is closed. The outside of the flap 13 also has a fastening surface 33 to engage with a fastening surface 34 under the outer flap 95, when closed.

[0141] Figure 27 shows in side view the end of the arrangement of Figures 25 and 26 when the loop portion 42 of the attachment member 11 is in the fixing point 12 and the flaps 13 and 95 are closed. Preferably the distal end of the outer flap 95 includes a tab portion 95’ without any fixing surface or with a gripping surface or loop to enable the tab portion 95’ to be gripped when the user wishes to undo the outer flap 95. Similarly, preferably the distal end of the flap 13 includes a tab portion 13’ without any fixing surface or with a gripping surface or loop to enable the tab portion 13’ to be gripped when the user wishes to undo the flap 13. The distal end of the fit assist tab 43 can similarly include a grippable tab portion 43’ such as a tab portion or loop that does not adhere to the fixing surface on the strap portion 8. Although thefastening surfaces 31 and 32 engage with each other they are shown spaced apart for clarity, as are fastening surfaces 33 and 34.

[0142] Figure 28 shows an attachment member 11 of a type separate or separable from the strap portion of the connecting portion of the leash. In this example, as in Figures 25 and 26, the attachment member can include a flexible member, such as a cord or piece of string, which may be sewn together along part of its length. This forms a loop at the distal portion 16 of the attachment member which can be secured around a fixing point such as a flap as shown in Figure 26 or a hook like fixing point with a narrow base and wide top as shown in Figures 14 and 15. A fit assist tab 43 is shown attached to the distal portion 16 of the attachment member 11 .

[0143] The attachment member is, throughout this specification, a flexible member and in Figure 28 is a loop of cord or string, with sewing along part of its length forming a base loop 97 at the opposite end of the attachment member 11 to the distal portion 16. As shown in Figure 29, in use, the attachment member is passed around the pin 25 (in the recess of the leash plug in the water sports board, not shown), then the fit assist tab is passed through the base loop 96 of the attachment member and the distal portion of the attachment member then much of the sewn length of the attachment member is pulled through the base loop 97. The fit assist tab can then be used to help pull the loop at the distal portion of the attachment member over the fixing point of the leash (not shown).

[0144] An alternate arrangement of separate or separable attachment member is a loop of the flexible member (e.g. cord or string) that is looped around the fixing point on the strap portion of the leash, passed over the first end of the strap portion, into the recess of a leash plug, around the pin in the leash plug and back around the fixing point on the strap portion of the leash. Both of these separate or separable types of attachment member can be used with the strap portion of a board connecting portion of a leash regardless of whether or not the strap portion includes a stabilising member as in Figures 18 to 27.

[0145] Figure 30 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 , installed on a board. The strap portion 8 includes an offset portion 15 thatincludes a variable length section 52 of sleeve 51 that can be compressed, reducing the offset length between fixing point 12 and the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion and extending the free length of the attachment member 11 available for threading under pin 25 of the leash plug 23 and then securing at fixing point 12. This extendable free length attachment member feature provides some similar installation benefits to the variable length section sleeve in Figures 10 to 15.

[0146] The flexible and elastic properties of the variable length section 52 of sleeve 51 can enable the strap portion 8 to extend as shown in Figure 31 to ensure the narrowing point or first end 9 of the strap portion is close to the leash plug when installed. As shown in Figure 31 , once the attachment member 1 is secured at fixing point 12, the variable length section 52 of sleeve 51 extends to its preferred shape and length with the first end 9 of the strap 8 being close to leash plug 23 protecting the board edge from damage.

[0147] Figure 32 shows another form of the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 , installed on a board. The strap portion 8 includes sliding components, a sliding inner component 98 connected to the second end 10 of the strap portion and a sliding outer component 99 being a sleeve configuration sliding along the outside of the sliding inner component. The attachment member 11 passes through the sliding outer component 99 and is secured to the sliding inner component 98. When installing the leash to a board, the strap portion 8 can effectively reduce in length and the attachment member free length extend as the sliding outer component 99 is slid along the sliding inner component towards the second end 10 of the strap portion 8 and the elongate portion of the leash 1. Extending the free length of the attachment member 11 can allow for threading and securing of the attachment member 11 , similar to the effect in Figures 10 to 15 and Figures 30 and 31.

[0148] Figure 33 shows the board connecting portion 7 of the leash 1 , fully installed on a board 20. The In order to fix the engagement member 11 around the fixing point 12 on the sliding outer component 99, the sliding outer component is slid to maximise the length of the strap portion 8, drawing the first end 9 of the strap portion8 close to the pin 25 of the leash plug 23, thus allowing the strap portion to protect the board edge 24 from damage.

[0149] As previously mentioned, the various forms of wear reducing members can be provided to provide a surface on the strap of the leash that is not easily cut or damaged by any rough edges around the leash plug. However, where the wear reducing members extend past the effective end of the strap, i.e. past the exit point of the attachment member from the strap portion, such material can also provide stability functions helping to encourage the first end of the strap portion of the leash to lay against or close to the surface of the board behind the pin of the leash plug. Therefore wear reducing member that extend past the exit point of the attachment member from the strap portion of the leash can alternatively or additionally be referred to as stability enhancing members.

[0150] List of reference numerals:1 - leash2 - elongate portion3 - first end (e.g. board end) of elongate portion4 - second end (e.g. user end) of elongate portion5 - swivel at first end 36 - swivel at second end 47 - board connecting portion (e.g. railsaver)8 - strap portion of board connecting portion9 - first end (board end) of strap portion10 - second end (elongate portion end) of strap portion11 - attachment member12 - fixing point13 - flap13’ - tab portion14 - fixing point fastener15 - offset portion16 - distal portion (of attachment member)17 - user connecting portion (e.g. cuff)18 - fold20 - water sports board21 - traction pad22 - fin(s)23 - leash plug24 - upper edge (of board)25 - pin (of leash plug)26 - recess (blind hole in leash plug)27 - edges (at top of leash plug recess)28 - upwardly (relative to board) extending surface29 - board upper surface30 - lower edge (of board)31 , 32 - fastening surfaces33 - proximal edge of recess34 - distal edge of recess41 - single profile section of attachment member42 - loop portion43 - fit assist tab43’ - grippable tab portion44 - finger loop51 - sleeve52 - variable length section53 - anchor point54 - free portion (of attachment member)55 - inner offset portion56 - outer offset portion57 - engaging portion a - additional length e - engaging length f - free length f’ -extended free length o - offset lengthp - loop elongation length p’ - portion of loop portion that engages with fixing point p” - remaining length of loop portion within offset length 55 - engaging portion (of attachment member)60 - wide top of 1461 - narrow base of 1462 - side supports63 - retaining channels68, 69 - snap fit surfaces74 - press stud78 - stabilising member (and / or wear reducing member)79 - attachment hole80 - smooth shaped surface81 - grip surface85 - region of flex86 - snap fit91 - large hole92 - small hole93 - slot94 - arms95 - outer flap95’ - tab portion96 - exit point97 - base loop98 - sliding inner component99 - sliding outer component

[0151] It is possible to combine different fixing types with different offsets or no offset and with extendable free length attachment member arrangements and / or wear reduction member arrangements. As such, modifications and improvements obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be encompassed with this specification.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length, wherein the attachment member has, in use, an engaging portion that passes at least around a pin in a recess in a leash plug of the water sports board and up to the offset portion of the strap portion, the engaging portion having an engaging length of less than thirty-five millimetres such that, in use, the first end of the strap portion is at or projecting over, past or around a proximal edge portion of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board.

2. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the attachment member is separate from the strap portion, the attachment member including a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of a board leash plug and then fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point.

3. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the attachment member is fixed to the strap portion and extends from the first end of the strap portion, the attachment member including a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of a board leash plug and fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point.

4. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the attachment member includes a distal portion for, in use, threading around a pin of a board leash plug and fixing to the strap portion at the fixing point.

5. The leash as claimed in any of claims 2, 3 or 4 wherein the distal portion of the attachment member is a fixing strap portion fastenable to the fixing point of the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash.

6. The leash as claimed in any of claims 2, 3 or 4 wherein the distal portion of the attachment member includes a loop portion.

7. The leash as claimed in claim 6 wherein the fixing point includes a flap securable to the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash.

8. The leash as claimed in claim 6 wherein the fixing point includes a hook or button-like feature around which, in use, the loop portion is passed.

9. The leash as claimed in any of claims 6, 7 or 8 further including a fit assist tab fixed to the loop portion.

10. The leash as claimed in any of claims 2, 3 or 4 wherein, in use, a distance from the first end of the strap portion to the distal end of the attachment member is an attachment member free length.

11. The leash as claimed in claim 10 wherein the attachment member free length is greater than the offset length.

12. The leash as claimed in claim 9 wherein the attachment member free length is at least five millimetres longer than the offset length.

13. The leash as claimed in claim 9 wherein the offset length is between forty and ninety-five percent of the attachment member free length.

14. The leash as claimed in claim 9 wherein the offset length is at least five millimetres.

15. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the offset length is at least one tenth of a total length of the strap portion.

16. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the board connecting portion includes a stabilising portion at or towards the first end of the strap portion and, in use, projecting over, past or around the proximal edge of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board, the stabilising portion including an attachment hole provided through or a slot provided into or through the stabilising portion of the board connecting portion, in use the attachment member passing through the attachment hole or slot.

17. The leash as claimed in claim 16 wherein the attachment hole is a slot in the stabilising portion forming a slot or recess in the end of the board connecting portion.

18. The leash as claimed in claim 16 wherein the attachment hole is a hole in the stabilising portion located at the first end of the strap portion, forming a hole through the board connecting portion.

19. The leash as claimed in claim 1 or as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the fixing point is provided on a first side of the strap portion and a grip surface is provided on a second opposite side of the strap portion.

20. The leash as claimed in claim 19 wherein the grip surface provides, in use, a coefficient of friction between the strap portion and an upper surface of the water sports board.

21. The leash as claimed in claim 19 wherein the grip surface is manufactured from a form of neoprene or Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).

22. The leash as claimed in claim 1 or as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the attachment member extends from the strap portion by a free length to a distal end, the attachment member including a loop portion at or near the distal end.

23. The leash as claimed in claim 22 wherein the free length of the attachment member is the sum of at least the offset length of the offset portion and the engaging length of the engaging portion.

24. The leash as claimed in claim 23, wherein the engaging portion of the attachment member is of a minimal length to pass, in use, to around the pin of the leash plug and back to the strap portion.

25. The leash as claimed in claim 23, wherein the engaging portion of the attachment member is less than 30mm in length.

26. The leash as claimed in any of claims 23 to 25, wherein when in use, the leash plug pin is orientated substantially laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the water sports board, the engaging length of the attachment member is biased towards a longitudinal plane through the water sports board, providing a bias on the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash to extend rearwards away from a traction pad and / or a user on the board.

27. The leash as claimed in claim 1 wherein the attachment member is fixed to the strap portion at an anchor point located at least thirty millimetres from the first end of the strap portion and extends past the first end of the strap portion.

28. The leash as claimed in claim 27 wherein the first end of the strap portion is movable relative to the attachment member.

29. The leash as claimed in claim 27 wherein strap portion forms or includes a sleeve, the attachment member passing through said sleeve.

30. A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein: a stabilising portion is provided on the board connecting portion, at or towards the first end of the strap portion, the stabilising portion, in use, projecting over, past or around the proximal edge of the recess of the leash plug of the water sports board, an attachment hole is provided into or through the stabilising portion, in use the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

31. The leash as claimed in claim 30 wherein the attachment hole forms a slot or recess in the end of the board connecting portion.

32. The leash as claimed in claim 30 wherein the attachment hole forms a hole through the board connecting portion.

33. The leash as claimed in claim 30 wherein the fixing point is located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

34. A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein: the fixing point is provided on a first side of the strap portion and a grip surface is provided on a second opposite side of the strap portion.

35. The leash as claimed in claim 34 wherein the grip surface provides, in use, a coefficient of friction between the strap portion and an upper surface of the water sports board.

36. The leash as claimed in claim 34 wherein the grip surface is manufactured from a form of neoprene or Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).

37. The leash as claimed in claim 34 wherein the fixing point is located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

38. The leash as claimed in claim 34 wherein a stabilising portion is provided at or towards the first end of the strap portion and an attachment hole is provided into or through the stabilising portion, in use, the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

39. A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein: the attachment member extends from the strap portion by a free length to a distal end, the attachment member including a fixing region at the distal end for fastening to the fixing point, the free length of the attachment member includes an engaging portion having an engaging length, in use, the engaging portion extending from the strap portion into a leash plug recess, around a leash plug pin and back to the strap portion.

40. The leash as claimed in claim 39, wherein the engaging portion of the attachment member is of a minimal length to pass, in use, to around the pin of the leash plug and back to the strap portion.

41. The leash as claimed in claim 39, wherein the engaging portion of the attachment member is less than thirty-five millimetres in length.

42. The leash as claimed in any of claims 39 to 41 , wherein when in use, the leash plug pin is orientated substantially laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the water sports board, the engaging length of the attachment member is biased towards a longitudinal plane through the water sports board, providing a bias on the strap portion of the board connecting portion of the leash to extend rearwards away from a traction pad and / or a user on the board.

43. The leash as claimed in claim 39 wherein the fixing point is located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length; the free length of the attachment member being the sum of at least the offset length of the offset portion and an engaging length of an engaging portion.

44. A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, wherein; the attachment member is fixed to the strap portion at least thirty millimetres from the first end of the strap portion and extends past the first end of the strap portion.

45. The leash as claimed in claim 44 wherein the first end of the strap portion is movable relative to the attachment member.

46. The leash as claimed in claim 44 wherein the strap portion forms or includes a sleeve, the attachment member passing through said sleeve.

47. The leash as claimed in claim 44 wherein the fixing point is located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the first end of the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

48. The leash as claimed in claim 44 wherein at or towards the first end of the strap portion an attachment hole is provided into or through the strap portion, in use, the attachment member passing through the attachment hole.

49. A leash for use with a water sports board, the leash including an elongate portion, a board connecting portion connected to a first end of the elongate portion and a user connecting portion connected to a second end of the elongate portion, the board connecting portion including a strap portion and an attachment member, the strap portion having a first end, a second end, and a fixing point, the attachment member having a first end and a second end, the first end of the attachment member being connected to the strap portion, wherein; the attachment member exits the strap portion at an exit point at or towards the first end of the strap portion, the fixing point being located between the first end of the strap portion and the second end of the strap portion, the fixing point being offset from the attachment member exit point on the strap portion by an offset portion of the strap portion, the offset portion having an offset length.

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