Ski boot opening tool, system and method

Abstract

A method of opening an overlap ski boot includes inserting an elongate tool such that a forked distal end engages an upper edge of a lower shell overlap and levering the tool outwardly to displace the lower shell overlap. The boot may include a cuff overlap which is simultaneously displaced by the levering action. A tool is provided having a forked distal end defining a transversely curved slot, and a proximal handle inclined at an obtuse angle relative to the distal end, enabling ergonomic and reliable opening of the ski boot.

Description

Ski Boot Opening Tool, System and MethodField of the Invention

[0001] The disclosure relates generally to ski equipment. More particularly, it concerns devices and techniques for facilitating the opening of rigid overlap ski boots having cuff and lower shell overlaps.Background of the Invention

[0002] Ski boots are widely used in alpine sports and are generally designed to provide a rigid connection between a skier’s foot and a ski binding. To achieve the necessary stiffness and control, many ski boots are constructed with a hard plastic shell which secures the foot and lower leg by way of overlapping portions and adjustable buckles. An inner liner is typically provided within the shell to offer thermal insulation and cushioning for comfort.

[0003] Although such designs provide the desired rigidity for skiing performance, they can be difficult for a skier to open when donning or removing the boots, particularly in cold environments where the plastic shell stiffens further. The overlapping shell portions, while effective at clamping the foot and shin, can require significant force to separate, and skiers frequently struggle with removing their boots unaided. This has led to various attempts to provide auxiliary devices intended to ease the process of opening the boot shell.

[0004] For example, US 8490843 B1 (VINCENT ARTHUR) 23 July 2013 discloses a device intended for use with ski boots having overlapping plastic shell portions. The device is characterised by a triangular wedge element that is forced downwardly into the boot shell by means of a handle in order to spread apart the overlapping portions. Whilst such a wedge can achieve a degree of separation, the arrangement requires the user to apply a direct downward driving force, which may be awkward in practice and necessitates substantial effort. As a result, the effectiveness of the opening action may be limited, particularly in cold conditions where the boot material is less pliable, and the device may be difficult to manipulate with one hand or when the user is wearing gloves.

[0005] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Disclosure

[0006] A method is provided for opening an overlap ski boot comprising a cuff overlap and a lower shell overlap. The method includes inserting an elongate tool such that a forked distal end of the tool engages an upper edge of a lower shell overlap, and levering the tool outwardly to displace the lower shell overlap.

[0007] This approach enables the rigid shell of the boot to be released quickly and with reduced physical effort compared with attempting to manually prise the overlaps apart. By applying mechanical advantage through the tool, the binding pressure at the instep and forefoot can be relieved in a controlled manner, facilitating easier removal of the foot from the boot. The method can be performed single-handedly and allows the user to open the boot to a greater degree than by hand, improving convenience and reliability particularly in cold conditions where the shell material is less flexible.

[0008] The elongate tool may be introduced behind the cuff overlap to reach the upper edge of the lower shell overlap, allowing engagement from above without manually spreading the cuff, which is often difficult when the shell material is rigid in cold conditions. When the tool is levered outwardly in this position, both the lower shell overlap and the cuff overlap can be displaced simultaneously, placing the boot into a more open configuration through a single-handed manoeuvre. This combined action reduces the number of manual steps required and provides a quicker, more reliable release of the boot, thereby improving ease of entry and exit.

[0009] In a further configuration, the forked distal end of the tool may define a slot that is curved transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool. This geometry allows the slot to conform with the curved upper edge of the shell, enabling reliable engagement without excessive manipulation of the boot.

[0010] The slot may be provided with a substantially uniform cross-section along its length. A consistent profile of this kind provides stable seating over the overlap edge, distributing the applied force evenly and ensuring secure purchase during levering.

[0011] In another arrangement, the proximal handle may be inclined at an obtuse angle relative to the engagement orientation of the forked distal end. This angular relationship positions the user’s hand in a more favourable alignment for applying leverage, thereby improving comfort and mechanical advantage when prising the shell open.

[0012] The tool may include a distal spade portion that provides the forked distal end, and which may define an inner concave longitudinal profile. Such shaping facilitates a stable and ergonomic fit against the boot shell.

[0013] The spade portion may also define an outer convex longitudinal profile, complementing the concave inner profile to provide rigidity and resistance against bending. It may also be desirable for the curvature of the longitudinal profile to correspond to the curvature of the slot at the forked distal end. Matching these geometries allows the distal end to seat naturally against the curved shell edge.

[0014] In certain forms, the tool may comprise a proximal handle that connects with the distal spade portion and is narrower in width than the spade portion. This relative narrowing provides an ergonomic gripping surface while allowing the spade portion to remain robust enough to sustain concentrated lever forces.

[0015] The handle may be formed with a non-rectangular cross-section, such as circular, oval or other contoured profiles. Shapes of this kind enhance grip security and usability, particularly when the user is wearing gloves.

[0016] The handle and spade portion may each be substantially straight along their lengths but intersect at an obtuse angle. This geometry enables efficient transfer of lever force while positioning the hand clear of the boot, minimising interference during use.

[0017] Additional functionality may be achieved by providing lateral grip projections extending outwardly from the handle. These projections afford improved purchasewhen pushing the distal end into place or withdrawing it, increasing user control over insertion and removal.

[0018] According to another aspect, there is provided a system comprising an overlap ski boot in combination with the tool. In such an arrangement, the boot shell can be opened in a controlled and repeatable manner. The cooperation between the cuff overlap, the lower shell overlap, and the forked distal end of the tool enables both overlaps to be displaced more effectively than by hand alone.

[0019] According to another aspect, there is provided a ski boot opening tool comprising an elongate body with a forked distal end and a proximal handle. The curved slot defined at the distal end affords reliable engagement with the boot shell, while the obtuse angular relationship between the handle and distal end provides ergonomic leverage. In combination, these features allow the tool to function effectively in a range of conditions without requiring excessive user strength or dexterity.

[0020] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an elongate tool for opening a ski boot.

[0023] Figure 2 is a side view of the tool of Figure 1.

[0024] Figure 3 is a plan view of the tool of Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a ski boot in an unbuckled configuration, showing insertion of the tool.

[0026] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the ski boot of Figure 4 in a more open configuration following use of the tool.Description of Embodiments

[0027] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a method of opening a ski boot 101 , the boot 101 being of the type commonly referred to as an overlap ski boot. This type of boot ischaracterised in that it has an exterior shell 102 formed from a rigid plastics material and an internal liner 103 formed as a soft, insulated and removable inner boot. The liner 103 provides cushioning and warmth, whilst the shell 102 provides structural rigidity and connection to the ski binding. In contradistinction to cabrio or so-called three-piece boots, which employ a separate flexing tongue component, the illustrated boot 101 incorporates integral overlapping portions of the shell 102 which close over one another to secure the user’s foot and lower leg.

[0028] The shell 102 integrally defines a lower shell overlap 103 across the instep and forefoot. As shown in Figure 4, the lower shell overlap 103 comprises a medial lower shell overlap portion 103A which typically overlaps a lateral lower shell overlap portion 103B. These portions 103A, 103B may be releasably secured using lower buckles 104, such that tightening the buckles 104 compresses the overlaps against the liner 103 and the foot of the wearer. The shell 102 further integrally defines a cuff overlap 105 disposed higher on the boot and arranged to extend across the front of the shin. The cuff overlap 105 comprises a medial cuff overlap portion 105A which typically overlaps a lateral cuff overlap portion 105B. These portions 105A, 105B may be drawn together using additional buckles 104 and a power strap 106, as is common in overlap boot construction.

[0029] Figure 4 depicts the boot 101 in a loose, unbuckled configuration, with the overlaps 103, 105 generally in a closed state but not clamped. In Figure 5, the boot 101 is shown in a more open configuration following the use of a tool 107 in accordance with the present method.

[0030] The method of opening the boot 101 comprises inserting an elongate tool 107, shown in perspective view in Figure 1 , such that a forked distal end 108 of the tool 107 engages an upper edge 109 of one of the lower shell overlap portions 103, preferably the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A. The forked distal end 108 is advanced into engagement with the edge 109 in the manner shown in Figure 4. The method then comprises levering the tool 107 outwardly as shown in Figure 5. This outward lever action causes the lower shell overlap 103 to be prised apart, releasing clamping pressure applied to the instep and forefoot. This release facilitatesconvenient removal of the wearer’s foot from the boot 101 by reducing resistance at the overlap interface.

[0031] As further shown in Figure 4, the method may additionally comprise inserting the elongate tool 107 behind the cuff overlap 105 so as to reach the upper edge 109 of the lower shell overlap 103. The tool 107 is preferably configured with a relatively thin, blade-like elongate profile, permitting it to slide conveniently between the medial cuff overlap portion 105A and the liner 103 without undue resistance. By passing the forked distal end 108 behind the cuff overlap 105, the tool 107 can be advanced directly into engagement with the upper edge 109 of the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A. This arrangement allows the user to insert the tool 107 from the top of the boot 101 without needing to manipulate the lower overlap portions by hand, thereby facilitating engagement in a single motion.

[0032] When the tool 107 is subsequently levered outwardly, as is illustrated in Figure 5, the applied force displaces the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A outwardly away from the lateral lower shell overlap portion 103B. In the same action, the medial cuff overlap portion 105A may also be urged outwardly relative to the lateral cuff overlap portion 105B. In this way, the levering motion simultaneously opens both the lower shell overlap 103 and the cuff overlap 105. This dual opening effect enhances the ease of entry and exit by creating a larger clearance pathway for the foot and lower leg. The simultaneous release of both overlaps reduces binding forces at the instep, forefoot, and shin, such that the boot 101 can be opened with a single-handed operation using the tool 107.

[0033] With reference to Figure 2, the forked distal end 108 of the tool 107 may define a transversely curved slot 110 relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool 107. The slot 110 is dimensioned to receive the upper edge 109 of the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A. The transverse curvature of the slot 110 conforms generally to the curvature of the upper edge 109, such that the forked distal end 108 can be quickly and reliably seated over the edge by a direct pushing action without requiring significant manipulation of the shell 102. This configuration allows the user to engage the tool 107 with the boot 101 in an intuitive and efficient manner.

[0034] The slot 110 may be formed with a substantially uniform cross-section along its entire length. This uniformity enables the slot 110 to stably receive the overlap portion 103 and to distribute lever forces evenly along the engaged edge 109. The engagement of the overlap portion 103 within the slot 110 thereby provides secure purchase against slippage when levering the tool outwardly, ensuring reliable prising of the shell portion with reduced effort.

[0035] As further illustrated in Figure 5, the proximal handle 111 of the tool 107 may be inclined at an obtuse angle relative to the engagement orientation of the forked distal end 108. By arranging the handle 111 in this angular relationship, the user’s hand is positioned more favourably when applying lever force. This ergonomic orientation improves mechanical advantage and allows the lower shell overlap 103 to be opened to a greater extent with reduced strain, while also maintaining clear access around the cuff overlap 105.

[0036] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the tool 107 may comprise a distal spade portion 113 defining the forked distal end 108. The distal spade portion 113 may be formed with an inner concave longitudinal profile 112 extending along its interior face. This concave profile 112 provides a recess that facilitates stable seating of the spade portion 113 against the boot shell 102 when the tool 107 is in use, improving both accuracy of placement and resistance against slipping during levering.

[0037] The distal spade portion 113 may further define an outer convex longitudinal profile 116 disposed on its exterior face, as also shown in Figure 2. This convex exterior complements the concave interior profile 112 to provide strength and stiffness to the spade portion 113, enabling it to resist bending or deformation under lever forces applied at the forked distal end 108. The convex profile 116 also allows the spade portion 113 to smoothly interface with the curved exterior of the shell 102 when the tool 107 is pressed into place.

[0038] The curvature of the longitudinal profiles 112, 116 may correspond to the transverse curvature of the slot 110 formed at the forked distal end 108. By providing matching curvature between the slot 110 and the longitudinal profiles of the spade portion 113, the distal end 108 more readily conforms to the curved upper edge 109of the lower shell overlap 103. This correspondence simplifies engagement of the tool107 with the boot 101 , ensuring that the forked distal end 108 can be securely and quickly applied over the edge 109 without requiring additional adjustment or forceful manipulation of the boot shell 102.

[0039] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, the tool 107 may further comprise a proximal handle 111 connected to the distal spade portion 113. The handle 111 is preferably narrower in width than the distal spade portion 113. This relative narrowing provides the user with a convenient gripping surface while ensuring that the distal spade portion 113 remains robust enough to withstand concentrated lever forces applied at the forked distal end 108. The narrowed handle 111 also facilitates precise control when positioning the distal spade portion 113 behind the cuff overlap 105 or onto the upper edge 109 of the lower shell overlap 103.

[0040] The proximal handle 111 may be formed with a non-rectangular cross-sectional profile, such as a circular, oval, or other contoured shape. This profile promotes ergonomic grip, reducing the likelihood of slippage during levering, and allows the user to apply force more effectively in different hand orientations.

[0041] As further depicted in Figure 3, the proximal handle 111 and the distal spade portion 113 may both be substantially straight along their respective lengths but intersect at an obtuse angle. This angular offset improves ergonomics by positioning the user’s hand at a more favourable orientation relative to the ski boot 101 during levering. The angled arrangement provides improved leverage while reducing interference with the cuff overlap 105 and adjacent components of the boot.

[0042] The handle 111 may also include opposing lateral grip projections 115 extending outwardly from either side of the handle. These projections 115 provide additional purchase for the user’s fingers and thumb, enabling the distal forked end108 to be pressed firmly onto the upper edge 109 of the lower shell overlap portion 103A such as by pressing down against them with the thumb and index finger, as well as pulled away after disengagement by hooking the index and middle fingers around them. The grip projections 115 therefore enhance both insertion and removal of thetool 107, making the overall method of opening the ski boot 101 more efficient and reliable.

[0043] In a preferred mode of use, the skier first unfastens the lower buckles 104 and the power strap 106 to place the ski boot 101 into the unbuckled configuration shown in Figure 4. With the buckles released, the skier then inserts the tool 107 behind the cuff overlap 105 so that the forked distal end 108 advances downwardly between the medial cuff overlap portion 105A and the liner 103 until the slot 110 at the distal end108 engages the upper edge 109 of the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A. The blade-like profile of the distal spade portion 113 allows the forked distal end 108 to slide smoothly behind the cuff overlap 105 without significant resistance.

[0044] Once the slot 110 has been seated over the edge 109, the skier pivots the proximal handle 111 outwardly as indicated in Figure 5. This levering motion causes the medial lower shell overlap portion 103A to be displaced away from the lateral lower shell overlap portion 103B, thereby opening the lower shell overlap 103. At the same time, the motion may also urge the medial cuff overlap portion 105A outwardly relative to the lateral cuff overlap portion 105B, such that both overlaps 103, 105 are opened in a single combined action.

[0045] The obtuse angle defined between the proximal handle 111 and the distal spade portion 113 positions the user’s hand clear of the shell 102 during levering, providing mechanical advantage and comfort. The non-rectangular cross-section of the handle 111 enhances grip, and the lateral grip projections 115 offer additional leverage points for pushing the forked distal end 108 into engagement with the edge109 or withdrawing it once the shell 102 has been sufficiently displaced.

[0046] By opening both the cuff overlap 105 and the lower shell overlap 103 in this manner, the binding pressure otherwise present across the instep, forefoot, and shin is rapidly relieved. The skier can then withdraw the foot and liner 103 from the shell 102 with reduced effort. The tool 107 thereby enables a convenient, one-handed operation that substantially improves ease of entry and exit relative to attempting to manually prise apart the rigid shell 102.

[0047] Whilst Figures 4 and 5 illustrate insertion of the tool 107 behind the medial cuff overlap portion 105A of a right boot 101 , it is to be understood that the same method may be applied to the lateral cuff overlap portion 105B or to a left boot of identical construction. The slot 110 of the forked distal end 108 may engage either the medial or lateral upper edge 109 of the lower shell overlap 103, depending on the user’s preference or handedness.

[0048] In some instances, the skier may insert the tool 107 from above with a substantially vertical motion, whilst in other instances the tool 107 may be inserted at a lateral angle to reach the upper edge 109 of the lower shell overlap 103. The elongated, blade-like profile of the distal spade portion 113 enables both approaches, the concave profile 112 seating reliably against the liner 103 regardless of entry angle.

[0049] The preferable obtuse angular offset between the proximal handle 111 and the distal spade portion 113 provides ergonomic advantage in a range of orientations, including when the skier is standing upright or when seated and bending over the boot 101 . In both cases, the angled handle 111 reduces wrist strain and positions the hand clear of the cuff overlap 105 during levering.

[0050] The tool 107 may also be used whilst the skier is wearing gloves. The non- rectangular cross-section of the handle 111 , combined with the outwardly projecting lateral grips 115, allows the tool 107 to be manipulated securely even with reduced tactile feedback. In cold environments this enables reliable boot opening without the need to remove gloves, which may otherwise expose the user to discomfort.

[0051] In addition to assisting removal of the foot from the boot 101 , the tool 107 may also be used during fitting. For example, before tightening the buckles 104, the skier may employ the tool 107 to temporarily spread the lower shell overlap 103, thereby easing initial foot insertion. Once the liner 103 and foot are positioned within the shell 102, the tool 107 can be disengaged from the edge 109 and the overlaps 103, 105 closed and buckled in the usual manner.

[0052] These variations demonstrate that the method and tool described are not limited to a single insertion path or configuration but may be adapted to a range ofboot types, user preferences, and environmental conditions whilst remaining within the scope of the invention. The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims1. A method of opening an overlap ski boot comprising a cuff overlap and a lower shell overlap, the method comprising: inserting an elongate tool such that a forked distal end of the tool engages an upper edge of a lower shell overlap; and levering the tool outwardly to displace the lower shell overlap.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising inserting the elongate tool behind the cuff overlap to reach the upper edge of the lower shell overlap.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the levering simultaneously opens the cuff overlap.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the forked distal end defines a transversely curved slot relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the slot has a substantially uniform cross-section along its length.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein a proximal handle is inclined at an obtuse angle to an engagement orientation of the forked distal end.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the tool comprises a distal spade portion having an inner concave longitudinal profile.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the distal spade portion defines an outer convex longitudinal profile.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein a curvature of the longitudinal profile corresponds to a curvature of the slot.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the tool comprises a proximal handle connecting with the distal spade portion, the proximal handle being narrower than the distal spade portion.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the proximal handle has a non-rectangular cross-sectional profile.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the proximal handle and the distal spade portion are substantially straight and intersect at an obtuse angle.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein lateral grip projections extend outwardly from the proximal handle.

14. A system comprising an overlap ski boot and an elongate tool, the ski boot comprising a shell having a cuff overlap and a lower shell overlap, the elongate tool having a forked distal end configured to engage an upper edge of the lower shell overlap so as to permit levering of the lower shell overlap outwardly.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the forked distal end defines a transversely curved slot relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the slot has a substantially uniform cross-section along its length.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the tool comprises a distal spade portion having an inner concave longitudinal profile and an outer convex longitudinal profile, the profiles corresponding to a curvature of the slot.

18. The system of claim 14, wherein the tool comprises a proximal handle connecting with the distal spade portion, the proximal handle being narrower than the distalspade portion and inclined at an obtuse angle relative to an engagement orientation of the forked distal end.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the proximal handle has a non-rectangular cross-sectional profile and comprises opposing lateral grip projections extending outwardly.

20. A ski boot opening tool comprising an elongate body having a forked distal end defining a transversely curved slot configured to engage an upper edge of a lower shell overlap of an overlap ski boot, and a proximal handle connected to the forked distal end, the handle being inclined at an obtuse angle relative to an engagement orientation of the forked distal end.

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