Proprioceptive sock

Abstract

The invention relates to a sock (1) having an outer surface (3) facing the ground, wherein the outer surface (3) comprises, in a sequence running along the sock (1) from a rear end (5) to a front end (7): a heel portion (9), a midfoot portion (11), a ball portion (13), and a toe portion (15). Said outer surface also has a guide element (17) which extends along a gait line (19) beginning in the heel portion (9), running through a lateral region (12) of the midfoot portion (11), extending substantially diagonally through the ball portion (13) from lateral to medial, and ending in a region of the toe portion (15); wherein a medial region (21) of the midfoot portion (11) is free of the guide element (17); wherein a local thickness DF of the guide element (17) is always greater than a local thickness DS of the sock (1); and characterized in that a reinforcement element (25), preferably a flexible reinforcement element (25), is affixed to the guide element (17) in at least one region (27, 12, 31, 33, 35) in order to additionally strengthen this region (27, 12, 31, 33, 35).

Description

[0001] Proprioceptive sock

[0002] The invention relates to a sock comprising a proprioceptive guide element according to claim 1.

[0003] The term "sock" generally refers to an article of clothing worn primarily to protect and cover the foot. Socks are typically made from textile materials such as cotton, wool, nylon, polyester, or blends, and are generally intended to protect the skin of the feet from friction and pressure points that can be caused by wearing shoes. In addition to cushioning, socks also serve to regulate temperature and moisture: socks help wick sweat and moisture away from the skin, keeping feet dry and reducing the risk of fungal infections and unpleasant odors. Conversely, socks keep feet warm, preventing them from getting cold.

[0004] To enhance certain of the aforementioned effects, socks with special properties were developed. For example, patent DE 102014105610 describes a sock consisting of a stocking element and at least one sole element, wherein the stocking and sole elements are integrally connected and the sole element is designed as a traction aid – i.e., to improve grip.

[0005] Further efforts have been made to make socks more resistant to the stresses of wear. The toe and heel areas, in particular, are prone to wear. Special shoe insoles can also increase stress in certain areas. Against this background, EP 0849998 Bl discloses a sock with a reinforced footbed area to reduce the height difference between the toe and heel areas, thereby reducing wear and tear and allowing the sock to better fit orthopedically shaped shoe insoles.

[0006] DE 200 00 35 Ul off fenbart a fine tights and silk stockings with integrated anti-slip aid to reduce the risk of injury from smooth stockings in combination with high heels or pumps .

[0007] The US 2014 / 338090 Al of fenbart describes a dance sock for increasing horizontal friction and reducing pivot friction between the sock and a surface.

[0008] One problem is that socks can distort sensory feedback and impair proprioception. While thick or padded socks may be comfortable, they can also reduce the fine perception of the soles of the feet and the ability to feel subtle changes in ground contact.

[0009] The human ability to move upright and safely relies largely on the complex interplay of sensory, motor, and cognitive processes. In this context, proprioception, the body's internal sensory system for perceiving its own position and movement, plays a central role. Proprioception enables the central pattern generator—a specialized network of nerve cells in the spinal cord—to precisely detect and control the position and movement of the limbs, as well as the forces acting on the joints. It thus forms an essential basis for harmonious and coordinated locomotion, such as walking. Another function of proprioception is that it allows the body to develop a sense of its own posture and dynamics in space.

[0010] When walking, humans naturally follow a curved or "S-shaped" gait pattern. This gait pattern refers to the sole of the foot, specifically how pressure or load is distributed across the sole during walking. This specific movement path of the foot strike results from the biomechanical optimization of the walking motion, which maximizes efficiency and stability. Deviations from this gait pattern can not only impair walking efficiency but also increase the risk of injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to support and promote proprioception in order to minimize deviations from the optimal gait pattern and improve overall movement quality.

[0011] Traditional methods for improving proprioception often focus on physical exercises and therapeutic interventions. However, the effectiveness of physiotherapy depends heavily on the patient's motivation and compliance. Exercises that are not integrated into daily life or are treated as isolated tasks often have less lasting effects. Therefore, movement patterns should ideally be trained in such a way that they become automatic and applicable in everyday life.

[0012] The present invention aims to provide a sock that helps to make walking and sporting activities more efficient, safer and more comfortable.

[0013] The aforementioned problem is solved according to the invention by a sock comprising a guide element according to claim 1.

[0014] In the context of the invention, the sections, areas, elements and properties of the sock described below each refer to a sock in its worn state.

[0015] The sock according to the invention has an outer surface facing the ground, which, in a sequence extending from a rear to a front end along the sock, comprises a heel section, a midfoot section, a ball of the foot section, and a toe section. The sock further comprises a guiding element that serves to control the optimal movement of the foot. The guiding element extends along a gait line that begins in the heel section, runs through a lateral region of the midfoot section, extends essentially diagonally from lateral to medial through the ball of the foot section, and terminates in a region of the toe section. According to the invention, a medial region of the midfoot section is free of the guiding element. In the heel section, the guiding element preferably extends predominantly in a lateral region.The guide element has a local thickness DF, which is always greater than a local thickness Ds of the sock in the region of the outer surface. The sock further comprises a reinforcing element, preferably a flexible reinforcing element, which is attached to the guide element in at least one region to further reinforce this region. In the context of the invention, the term "local thickness" is understood to mean the thickness of the corresponding element.

[0016] In the context of the invention, the term ‘heel section’ refers to the section of the sock which, when in use (i.e., when worn), is located under the heel bone of the wearer and extends to the dorsal end of the arch of the foot.

[0017] In the context of the invention, the term ‘middle foot section’ refers to the section of the sock which, when in use, is arranged under the arch of the foot, thus extending from the dorsal end of the arch of the foot to the ventral end of the arch of the wearer's foot.

[0018] In the context of the invention, the term ‘ball of foot section’ is understood to mean the section of the sock which, when in use, is arranged under the ball of the foot (in the area of ​​the metatarsophalangeal joints) of the wearer and extends from the ventral end of the arch of the foot to the dorsal end of the toes.

[0019] In the context of the invention, the term ‘toe section’ refers to the section of the sock that is located under the toes.

[0020] In the context of the invention, the term "a reinforcing element arranged on the guide element" is understood to mean a reinforcing element that is arranged directly on the guide element or indirectly connected to the guide element via an intermediate element. The sock according to the invention has the advantage that it provides the wearer with subtle but perceptible proprioceptive feedback as to whether they are currently walking on the desired (ideal for the wearer) gait pattern or not. This feedback is further enhanced by the reinforcing element. Furthermore, the reinforcing element allows the sock to be even better adapted to the individual needs of the wearer. For example, in cases of various gait abnormalities, the feedback can be specifically enhanced in certain areas of the foot to achieve the best possible gait pattern. For this purpose, one or more reinforcing elements can be attached to a particular area.It is also possible for a reinforcing element to be attached in several areas, or for several reinforcing elements to be attached in several areas. Furthermore, the inventive sock is significantly cheaper to manufacture than prior art shoes for supporting proprioception and can be adapted to the wearer much more easily. In addition, the inventive sock offers more comfortable proprioception than prior art shoes and can therefore be worn all day without overstimulating the foot muscles. It has been shown that the proprioceptive feedback generated by the combination of the guiding element and the reinforcing element is registered by the mechanoreceptors in the foot. The mechanoreceptors transmit this feedback to the central nervous system via the peripheral nervous system.The central nervous system then controls movement, balance, and body awareness based on this feedback. The amplification element can be flexible or rigid. It can have the same or greater rigidity than the guidance element to further enhance proprioception in this area. A flexible amplification element is particularly preferred.

[0021] In the context of the invention, the term ‘flexible’ is understood to mean that the reinforcing element can deform under load or pressure without losing or breaking its basic structure.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element is detachably connected to the guide element.

[0023] In the context of the invention, the term "detachably connected" means that the reinforcing element is connected to the guide element in a way that allows it to be detached by hand, particularly without additional tools, and without damaging the guide element. For example, the reinforcing element can be connected to the guide element via a hook-and-loop fastener or a plastic snap fastener. This detachable connection allows for easy adjustment of the reinforcing element's position on the guide element to further optimize the generation of proprioceptive feedback for the wearer of the sock.

[0024] Furthermore, the reinforcement element can also be sewn or glued to the guide element to (semi-)permanently fix the reinforcement element to the guide element. Preferably, the guide element is a proprioceptive guide element.

[0025] In the context of the invention, the term "proprioceptive guiding element" refers to a component of the sock which is thicker than the outer surface of the sock and thereby provides proprioceptive feedback to the wearer.

[0026] Preferably, the guiding element is not an anti-slip element or does not have anti-slip properties. This has the advantage of reducing the risk of blisters on the foot, as different parts of the sock do not move unevenly over the foot, creating friction that promotes blister formation.

[0027] In the context of the invention, the term "anti-slip element" refers to an element that significantly increases the coefficient of static friction of the sock. Since the guide element is not an anti-slip element, it has the same or only a negligible coefficient of static friction as the outer surface of the sock, which is not formed by the guide element and faces the ground. Apps, Dawson, Shering, and Siegkas demonstrated in their 2022 scientific publication in the journal Sports Medicine and Biomechanics that ordinary socks have a coefficient of static friction of 0.6, while anti-slip socks have a coefficient of static friction of 1.17. To determine the coefficient of static friction, an insole of a running shoe was attached to a stationary surface. The sock was attached to a sled loaded with an additional weight of 2.5 kg.The sled with the attached sock was then pulled across the insole at a constant speed of 1.5 mm / min.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the sock and the guide element have a coefficient of static friction of less than 0.8. This coefficient of static friction refers to the static friction against the insole of a shoe. The coefficient of static friction is determined according to the method described above by Apps, Dawson, Shering, and Siegkas. The low coefficient of static friction has the advantage that the sock can move easily relative to the insole within the shoe. This prevents blisters and increases long-term wearing comfort.

[0029] Preferably, the reinforcing element has a planar extent which corresponds to less than 60%, and particularly preferably less than 40%, of the planar extent of the guide element.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is formed on the outer surface of the sock.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is formed on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot when worn.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guiding element is formed between the outer surface and an inner surface of the sock which, when worn, faces the foot.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is arranged on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot when worn, and on an outer surface facing the ground when worn. In this case, the guide element comprises several sub-elements which together form the guide element.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is arranged on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot when worn, and between the inner surface and the outer surface of the sock. In this case, the guide element comprises several sub-elements which together form the guide element.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is arranged on the outer surface of the sock (facing the floor when worn) and between an inner surface and the outer surface of the sock. In this case, the guide element comprises several sub-elements which together form the guide element.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment of the sock according to the invention, the guide element is arranged on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot when worn, and on an outer surface facing the ground when worn, and between the inner and outer surfaces of the sock. In this case as well, the guide element comprises several sub-elements which together form the guide element.

[0037] Regardless of whether the guide element is arranged on the outer surface and / or on the inner surface and / or in between, the features described below are particularly preferred.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the sock is made from a yarn Gs and the guide element from a yarn GF, wherein the yarn Gs has a lower yarn thickness than the yarn GF.

[0039] In the context of the invention, the term ‘yarn’ is understood to mean a linear textile structure according to DIN 60900.

[0040] In the context of the invention, the term "yarn thickness" is understood to mean a measure of the thickness or fineness of a yarn. Yarn thickness indicates how much yarn material is present in a given length or mass. A yarn with a higher yarn thickness thus has more mass per unit length than a yarn with a lower yarn thickness.

[0041] Preferably, the local thickness of the guide element DF is 0.5–10 mm greater, particularly preferably 2–8 mm greater, and most preferably 3–5 mm greater, than the local thickness of the sock Ds in the region of the outer surface. For better explanation, the concept of local thickness is illustrated using the example of the guide element formed on the outer surface of the sock. When the sock's support is on the ground, the guide element extends towards the ground by its thickness DF, creating a height difference between the guide element and the outer surface.

[0042] Preferably, knobs are arranged on the guide element to further enhance proprioception.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the local thickness of the reinforcing element Dv is 1–5 mm greater, and particularly preferably 2–4 mm greater, than the local thickness of the guide element DF. The reinforcing element preferably extends beyond the plane of the guide element by its thickness Dv, thereby creating a height difference between the reinforcing element and the guide element.

[0044] Preferably, the area in which the reinforcement element is attached is selected from the group consisting of the lateral heel section, lateral midfoot section, lateral ball of the foot section (5th metatarsal), medial ball of the foot section (1st metatarsal), big toe, and combinations thereof. Particularly preferably, a reinforcement element is arranged in the lateral heel section, in the lateral ball of the foot section (5th metatarsal), and in the medial ball of the foot section (1st metatarsal). This configuration generates a balanced proprioceptive feedback.

[0045] In the context of the invention, the term "lateral" is used.

[0046] "Football section metatarsal-5" is understood as an area which, when wearing a sock, lies under the fifth middle foot bone in the ball of the foot.

[0047] In the context of the invention, the term "medial ball of foot section metatarsal 1" refers to an area located under the first metatarsal bone in the ball of the foot when the sock is worn. Preferably, a (locally limited) reinforcing element, particularly a flexible reinforcing element, is arranged on the guide element in the areas of the lateral heel section, lateral ball of foot section metatarsal 5, and medial ball of foot section metatarsal 1 to further reinforce these areas. This configuration of lateral heel section, metatarsal 5, and metatarsal 1 generates optimal proprioceptive feedback, which guides the foot onto the desired gait line without excessively tiring the muscles.Particularly preferred in the configuration described above, consisting of a lateral heel section, metatarsal 5, and metatarsal 1, is the reinforcement element in the lateral heel section and on metatarsal 5 being fixed, while the reinforcement element on metatarsal 1 is detachably attached. This allows the reinforcement element on metatarsal 1 to be ideally adapted to the wearer of the sock, as this reinforcement point exhibits the greatest variability between different wearers. The reinforcement element is still located in the area of ​​metatarsal 1, but slight adjustments are possible.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element is made of a material that is harder than or equal to the hardness of the guide element. Particularly preferably, the reinforcing element is made of a yarn with a yarn thickness equal to or greater than that of the guide element. This effectively reinforces the guide element.

[0049] The guide element is preferably located in the area of

[0050] The reinforcing element is not continuously formed.

[0051] The guide element can, for example, have an opening or a hole which is covered by the reinforcement element. This design allows the reinforcement element to be pressed into the opening during walking and thus be optimally aligned.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element is arranged on the guide element, the latter being formed on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot when worn.

[0053] Preferably, the reinforcing element is designed as a pocket arranged on the guide element. The pocket has a cavity that can be filled with a reinforcing agent. The reinforcing agent is preferably a plate, particularly preferably a lenticular plate, which is preferably made of plastic, carbon, Kevlar, or glass fiber-reinforced plastic. By filling the pocket-shaped reinforcing element, it is possible to temporarily enhance the effect of the reinforcing element by introducing the reinforcing agent into the element. For example, the reinforcing element could be further enhanced for certain applications, such as dynamic rebound onto metatarsal 5 and metatarsal 1, by inserting a lenticular carbon plate into the reinforcing element.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element is made of a less hard material than the guide element. Particularly preferred is the reinforcing element made of a yarn with a smaller yarn thickness than the yarn thickness of the guide element.

[0055] In the context of the invention, the term "hard" refers to the resistance of a material to plastic deformation, penetration, or abrasion. Thus, it is more difficult to penetrate or scratch the surface of a material with greater hardness than of a material with less hardness.

[0056] Preferably, the reinforcing element has a diameter of at least 0.5 cm, preferably 0.5–5 cm, in the direction of the plane of the outer surface. This size allows for local reinforcement of the sock or the guide element. The size of the reinforcing element refers to socks of standard sizes 28–38. For socks of standard sizes 20–27, the reinforcing element preferably has a diameter of 0.5–3 cm. For socks of standard sizes 39–44, the reinforcing element preferably has a diameter of 0.5–5 cm. For socks of standard sizes 45–50, the reinforcing element preferably has a diameter of 0.5–7 cm. For socks of standard sizes 51–58, the reinforcing element preferably has a diameter of 0.5–9 cm.

[0057] Preferably, the reinforcing element has an elliptical shape. Surprisingly, it was found that this shape allows for easy attachment of the reinforcing element and provides optimized feedback. Alternatively, the reinforcing element can also have the shape of a circle, an (equilateral) triangle, a square, or an (equilateral) polygon.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element has a thickness of 0.2–5 mm, preferably 0.5–3 mm. This thickness allows for feedback perceptible to the wearer without impairing wearing comfort.

[0059] Preferably, loops of a hook-and-loop fastener are formed on an outer surface of the guide element facing the ground. These loops are also commonly referred to as the loop part of a hook-and-loop fastener. In this embodiment, hooks of a hook-and-loop fastener are preferably arranged on the outer surface of the reinforcement element facing away from the ground. These hooks are also commonly referred to as the adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener. This enables a simple and efficient hook-and-loop connection between the guide element and the reinforcement element.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the guide element is attached to an inner surface of the sock facing the foot and is provided with loops of a hook-and-loop fastener. These loops are also commonly referred to as the loop part of a hook-and-loop fastener. In this embodiment, hook-and-loop fastener barbs are preferably arranged on the surface of the reinforcement element facing the inner surface of the sock. These hooks are also commonly referred to as the adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener. This enables a simple and efficient hook-and-loop connection between the guide element and the reinforcement element.

[0061] Preferably, the guide element is made of a rubberized yarn GG. Preferably, the rest of the sock is also made at least partially of such a rubberized yarn. A sock that is at least partially made of rubberized

[0062] Socks made from rubberized yarn offer several advantages. Among other things, a rubberized yarn gives the sock excellent elasticity, allowing it to better conform to the shape of the foot. Furthermore, socks made from rubberized yarn can provide a degree of compression, which promotes blood circulation and can reduce leg fatigue. Additionally, socks made from rubberized yarn are more resistant to wear and tear, extending their lifespan. Compared to socks made from non-rubberized yarn, they are also less prone to losing their shape or stretching out, increasing comfort by reducing pressure points. If a rubberized yarn (GG) is used for both the guide element and the rest of the sock, the coefficient of friction of the guide element relative to the (remaining) outer, floor-facing surface of the sock is not increased, or at least not significantly.

[0063] Preferably, the yarn used to manufacture the guide element comprises carbon fibers, Kevlar fibers, glass fibers, silicone fibers, or combinations thereof. Using such a yarn has the advantage of increasing the sock's durability and further enhancing the proprioceptive feedback of the guide element.

[0064] Preferably, the reinforcing element comprises carbon fibers, Kevlar fibers, glass fibers, silicone fibers, or combinations thereof. The use of these fibers has the advantage of increasing the sock's durability and further enhancing the proprioceptive feedback of the reinforcing element and thus of the guiding element. In a preferred embodiment, the local hardness HF of the guiding element is greater than the local hardness Hs of the sock in the remaining area of ​​the outer surface facing the ground when worn. Such a sock is particularly advantageous in combination with a shoe that does not itself provide proprioceptive feedback. Examples of such shoes include so-called barefoot shoes or non-supportive running shoes.

[0065] In another preferred embodiment, the local hardness HF of the guiding element is lower than the local hardness Hs of the sock in the remaining area of ​​the outer surface facing the ground when worn. Such a sock is particularly suitable for use in combination with a shoe that itself provides proprioceptive feedback. Examples of such shoes can be found, for instance, in patents WO 2023152094 Al, EP 3229636 Bl, and EP 2768336.

[0066] Bl known .

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the guide element extending along the gait line is divided into several sections, separated from each other by gaps. This allows for the relief of pressure peaks at points along the gait line and a better distribution of these pressure peaks along the gait line.

[0068] Preferably, the guide element is divided into a heel area, a lateral midfoot area, a ball of the foot area, and a toe area, which are arranged in the corresponding sections mentioned above. Preferably, the breaks separating the different areas of the guide element have a dimension along the gait line of 1–20 mm, particularly preferably 3–10 mm, and most preferably 5–6 mm. It has been shown that these dimensions for the breaks enable the best possible distribution of local pressure peaks.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the guide element covers at least 40% of the sock's outer surface facing the ground. Surprisingly, it was found that the guide element should cover at least 40% of the sock's outer surface facing the ground when worn in order to generate optimal proprioceptive feedback.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the sock features a reinforcing element in the medial part of the midfoot section, facing the rear end. This reinforcing element supports the lateral guidance of the guide element and also provides additional support for the calcaneus. This configuration is particularly suitable for cases of severe overpronation of the foot. Preferably, the reinforcing element located in the medial part of the midfoot section, facing the rear end, is at least 6 mm thick and, more preferably, attachable with a hook-and-loop fastener. The thickness of at least 6 mm is required to ensure sufficient stabilization. Fastening with a hook-and-loop fastener has the advantage that the wearer only needs to attach the reinforcing element when the foot muscles are fatigued and require relief.This helps prevent overexertion during sports and allows the sock to be worn for longer periods, further supporting proprioception.

[0071] In a preferred design, the guide element extends along the gait line from the heel area continuously to the toe section.

[0072] In a preferred design, the sock includes several guide elements that extend along the gait line.

[0073] In an alternative preferred design, the guiding element extends along the gait line only in the heel area and in the lateral area of ​​the

[0074] Middle foot section.

[0075] In another alternative preferred design form, the guiding element extends along the gait line only in the lateral area of ​​the midfoot section.

[0076] Furthermore, a sock with an outer surface facing the ground is described, which, in a sequence extending from a posterior to a fore-posterior end along the sock, comprises a heel section, a midfoot section, a ball of the foot section, and a toe section. The sock further includes a guiding element, which serves to control the optimal movement sequence of the foot. The guiding element extends along a gait line that begins in the heel section, runs through a lateral region of the midfoot section, extends essentially diagonally from lateral to medial through the ball of the foot section, and ends in a medial region of the toe section. According to the invention, a medial region of the midfoot section is free of the guiding element. In the heel section, the guiding element preferably extends predominantly in a lateral region.The guide element has a local thickness DF, which is always greater than a local thickness Ds of the sock in the area of ​​the outer surface.

[0077] The aforementioned sock has the advantage of providing the wearer with subtle yet perceptible proprioceptive feedback as to whether they are currently walking along the desired (ideal for the wearer) gait line. Furthermore, the inventive sock is significantly cheaper to manufacture than prior art shoes for supporting proprioception and can be adapted to the wearer much more easily. In addition, the inventive sock offers more comfortable proprioception than prior art shoes and can therefore be worn all day without overstimulating the foot muscles.

[0078] The preferred features described above for the sock according to the invention are also preferred for the sock just disclosed.

[0079] Furthermore, a sock with an outer surface facing the ground is described, which, in a sequence running from a posterior to a fore-posterior end along the sock, comprises a heel section, a midfoot section, a ball of the foot section, and a toe section. The sock further includes a guiding element, which serves to control the optimal movement sequence of the foot. The guiding element extends along a gait line that begins in the heel section, runs through a lateral area of ​​the midfoot section, extends essentially diagonally from lateral to medial through the ball of the foot section, and ends in a medial area of ​​the ball of the foot section. The guiding element has a break between a lateral ball of the foot section and the medial ball of the foot section. According to the invention, a medial area of ​​the midfoot section is free of the guiding element.The guide element preferably runs predominantly in a lateral area in the heel section. The guide element has a local thickness DF, which is always greater than the local thickness Ds of the sock in the area of ​​the outer surface. The sock further comprises a reinforcing element, preferably a flexible reinforcing element, which is attached to the guide element in at least one area to further reinforce this area.

[0080] The aforementioned sock has the advantage of providing the wearer with subtle yet perceptible proprioceptive feedback as to whether they are currently walking along the desired (ideal for the wearer) gait line. Furthermore, the inventive sock is significantly cheaper to manufacture than prior art shoes for supporting proprioception and can be adapted to the wearer much more easily. In addition, the inventive sock offers more comfortable proprioception than prior art shoes and can therefore be worn all day without overstimulating the foot muscles.

[0081] The preferred features described above for the sock according to the invention are also preferred for the sock just disclosed.

[0082] Preferably, a (locally limited) reinforcement element, particularly a flexible reinforcement element, is arranged on the guide element in the areas of the lateral heel section, lateral ball of the foot section metatarsal-5 and medial ball of the foot section metatarsal-1 to further reinforce this area.

[0083] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to some exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. Where alternative embodiments differ only in individual features, the same reference numerals have been used for the features that remain the same. The figures are shown purely schematically:

[0084] Fig. 1 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of the sock according to the invention;

[0085] Fig. 2 shows an underside view of an alternative embodiment of the sock according to the invention;

[0086] Fig. 3 shows an underside view of an alternative embodiment of the sock according to the invention;

[0087] Fig. 4 shows a gait analysis on a treadmill;

[0088] Fig. 5 shows a gait analysis on a static surface;

[0089] Fig. 6 shows a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of the sock according to the invention; and Fig. 7 shows a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of the sock according to the invention;

[0090] Fig. 8 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of the sock according to the invention.

[0091] The sock 1 shown in Fig. 1 comprises an outer surface 3 facing the ground (when worn). This outer surface 3 includes a sequence extending from a rear end 5 to an front end 7, comprising a heel section 9, a midfoot section 11, a ball of the foot section 13, and a toe section 15. The sock 1 further comprises a proprioceptive guidance element 17, which extends along an ideal gait line 19. The ideal gait line 19 begins at the heel section 9, passes through a lateral region 12 of the midfoot section 11, runs transversely from lateral to medial through the ball of the foot section 13, and terminates in a medial region 16 of a toe section 15. A medial region 21 of the midfoot section 11 remains free of the proprioceptive guidance element 17.

[0092] The sock 2 shown in Fig. 2 corresponds essentially to the sock 1 from Fig. 1, with the addition of several reinforcement elements 25 on the proprioceptive guide element 17. The reinforcement elements 25 are arranged in different areas along the ideal gait line 19. In Fig. 2, the reinforcement elements 25 are located in a lateral heel section 27, a lateral midfoot section 12, a lateral ball of the foot section metatarsal 5 31, a medial ball of the foot section metatarsal 1 33, and a big toe section 35. The reinforcement elements 25 can be attached to the proprioceptive guide element 17 by means of hook and loop fasteners or sewn onto it.

[0093] The sock 4 shown in Fig. 3 corresponds essentially to the sock 2 from Fig. 2, wherein the proprioceptive guidance element 17 is divided into different areas. The proprioceptive guidance element 17 comprises a heel area 37 located in the heel section 9, a midfoot area 39 located in the lateral midfoot section 12, a ball of the foot area 41 located in the ball of the foot section 13, and a toe area 43 located in the medial toe area 16. The areas 37, 39, 41, 43 of the proprioceptive guidance element 17 are separated from each other by interruptions 45, 47, 49. The heel area 37 is separated from the midfoot area 39 by interruption 45. The midfoot area 39 is separated from the ball of the foot area 41 by interruption 47. The ball of the foot area 41 is separated from the toe area 43 by the interruption 49.

[0094] Figures 4a and 4b show a gait analysis on a treadmill. In both figures, the runner wears the same running shoe with a non-supportive insole. In the gait analysis in Figure 4a, the runner wears conventional sports socks in his running shoes. It is clearly visible that the runner has a varus foot position. In a varus foot position, the heel joint and the knee joint roll laterally. This malposition is subsequently compensated for in the hip. In the long term, this malposition can promote the development of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), also known as runner's knee. In the gait analysis in Figure 4b, the runner wears the socks according to the invention in his running shoes. The socks according to the invention automatically guide the runner onto the ideal gait line. The heel and knee no longer roll laterally, but are positioned centrally over the point of push-off.

[0095] Figures 5a and 5b show a gait analysis on a static surface (floor). In both figures, the runner wears the same running shoe with a non-supportive insole. Using gait analysis software, the following joints were marked with white dots: heel, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, and hand. The joints were then connected by lines, with an additional line, representing the spinal axis, positioned medially between the two shoulder joints and the two hip joints. In the gait analysis in Figure 5a, the runner wears conventional sports socks with his running shoes. This causes the calcaneus to tilt medially (inward). This misalignment is compensated for in the hip, resulting in the right hip joint being lower than the left hip joint.This misalignment propagates upwards to the shoulder joints, with the right shoulder joint also positioned lower than the left shoulder joint. The runner thus tilts laterally with his entire body axis. In the gait analysis shown in Figure 5b, the runner wears the socks according to the invention in his running shoes. The socks according to the invention automatically guide the runner onto the ideal gait line. The heel bone no longer tilts medially, resulting in both hip joints and both shoulder joints being at the same level, and the runner's body axis being essentially vertically aligned. In a further experimental setup, the runner was equipped so that the socks according to the invention were put on backwards, that is, the left sock on the right foot and the right sock on the left foot.This incorrect orientation led to a significant deterioration in running form, highlighting the superiority of the correctly oriented socks according to the invention. In comparison, conventional sports socks performed better than the incorrectly oriented socks according to the invention, but still worse than the correctly oriented socks according to the invention. It is therefore clear that the socks according to the invention, when correctly oriented, are the best choice.

[0096] The sock 6 shown in Figure 6 corresponds essentially to the sock 2 from Figure 2, wherein a reinforcement element 25 is arranged on the proprioceptive guide element 17 in the areas of the lateral heel section 27, the lateral ball of the foot section (metatarsal-5) 31 and the medial ball of the foot section (metatarsal-1) 33. When worn, the reinforcement element 25, which is located in the area of ​​the lateral heel section 27, is oriented towards the ground or is located in the area of ​​the lateral edge of the heel, so that it is oriented towards both the ground and the lateral side of the heel.

[0097] The sock 8 shown in Figure 7a-f is essentially the same as the sock 4 from Figure 3, with the proprioceptive guide element 17 being configured in different ways. In Figures 7a and 7b, the proprioceptive guide element 17 is arranged along the entire gait line 19 from the heel section 9 to the toe section 15, with the proprioceptive guide element 17 being subdivided into elongated areas extending from lateral to medial. In Figure 7c, the proprioceptive guide element 17 is also subdivided into several elongated areas, each arranged along the gait line 19. In Figure 7d, the proprioceptive guide element 17 is arranged in the form of triangular areas along the gait line 19.In Figure 7e, the proprioceptive guide element 17 is arranged only in the heel section 9 and in the lateral area 12 of the midfoot section 11, and in each case below the reinforcement elements 25. In Figure 7f, the proprioceptive guide element 17 is arranged only in the lateral area 12 of the midfoot section 11, and in each case below the reinforcement elements 25.

[0098] The sock 10 shown in Figures 8a-c essentially corresponds to the sock 6 from Figure 6, with the outer surface 3 facing the floor and an inner surface 51 facing the foot. In Figure 8a, the guide element 17 is attached to the outer surface 3 facing the floor and extends towards the floor. The guide element 17 further comprises three reinforcing elements 25, which are attached to the guide element 17 and extend towards the floor. In Figure 8b, the guide element 17 is attached to the inner surface 51 facing the foot and extends towards the foot. The guide element 17 further comprises three reinforcing elements 25, which are attached to the guide element 17 and extend towards the foot. In Figure 8c, the guide element 17 is arranged between the outer surface 3 facing the ground and the inner surface 51 facing the foot.The guide element 17 has three reinforcement elements 25, which are attached to the guide element 17 and are located both in.

[0099] They can extend in the direction of the outer surface facing the ground 3 as well as in the direction of the inner surface facing the foot 51.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Sock (1) with an outer surface (3) facing the ground, wherein the outer surface (3) comprises, in a sequence running from a posterior end (5) to an anterior end (7) along the sock (1), a heel section (9), a midfoot section (11), a ball of foot section (13) and a toe section (15), and with a guide element (17), wherein the guide element (17) extends along a gait line (19) beginning at the heel section (9), passing through a lateral region (12) of the midfoot section (11), extending substantially diagonally from lateral to medial through the ball of foot section (13) and terminating in a region of the toe section (15), wherein a medial region (21) of the midfoot section (11) is free from the guide element (17), wherein a local thickness DF of the guide element (17) is always greater than a local thickness Ds of the sock (1) in the area of ​​the outer surface (3), characterized in that a reinforcing element (25) is attached to the guide element (17) in at least one area (27, 12, 31, 33, 35), preferably a flexible reinforcement element (25) to further reinforce this area (27, 12, 31, 33, 35).

2. Sock according to claim 1, wherein the guide element has a coefficient of static friction of less than 0.

8.

3. Sock according to one of claims 1 or 2 characterized in that the guide element (17) is formed on the outer surface (3) of the sock.

4. Sock according to one of claims 1 or 2 characterized in that the guide element (17) is formed on an inner surface of the sock facing the foot.

5. Sock according to claim 1 or 2 characterized in that the guide element (17) is formed between the outer surface (3) and an inner surface of the sock facing the foot.

6. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 5 characterized in that the sock (1) is made of a yarn Gs and the guide element (17) is made of a yarn GF and wherein the yarn Gs has a lower yarn thickness than the yarn GF.

7. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the local thickness DF of the guide element (17) is 0.5 - 10 mm greater, preferably 2 - 8 mm greater, particularly preferably 3 - 5 mm greater, than the local thickness Ds of the sock (1) in the area of ​​the outer surface (3) .

8. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the area (27, 12, 31, 33, 35) is selected from the group consisting of lateral heel section (27), lateral midfoot section (12), lateral ball of foot section metatarsal-5 (31), medial ball of foot section metatarsal-1 (33), big toe (35) and combinations thereof.

9. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that on the guide element (17) in the areas of lateral heel section (27), lateral Ball of foot section metatarsal-5 (31) and medial Metatarsal-1 section (33) each one Reinforcing element (25), preferably a flexible one Reinforcing element (25) is arranged to protect this to further reinforce area (27, 31, 33).

10. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the reinforcing element (25) is made of a harder or equally hard material as the guide element (17).

11. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the reinforcing element (25) has a diameter of 0.5 - 5 cm in the direction of the plane of the outer surface.

12. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the reinforcing element (25) has a thickness of 0.2 - 5 mm, preferably of 0.5 - 3 mm.

13. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that on a sock in the worn state the Loops of a hook and loop fastener are formed on the outer surface of the guide element (17) facing the ground, and hooks of a hook and loop fastener are arranged on an outer surface of the reinforcement element (25) facing away from the ground.

14. Sock according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the local hardness HF of the guide element (17) is greater than the local hardness Hs of the sock (1) in the area of ​​the outer surface (3) .

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