U.S. patent application number 09/755979 was filed with the patent office on 2002-07-11 for snowboard boot with articulating binding interface.
Invention is credited to Curtis, Joseph, Musho, Edward J., Phillips, Franklin S., Taylor, Graham Scott.
Application Number | 20020089150 09/755979 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25041494 |
Filed Date | 2002-07-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020089150 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Musho, Edward J. ; et
al. |
July 11, 2002 |
Snowboard boot with articulating binding interface
Abstract
A snowboard boot includes an upper and a binding interface that
is adapted to engage with a snowboard binding. The interface is
supported from the boot upper so that even when the interface is
rigidly engaged by the binding, the boot upper can advantageously
roll or flex side-to-side relative to the interface, and
consequently the snowboard, to provide a rider with a desirable
feel of foot roll. The boot may be configured so that a segment of
the boot upper rearward of its toe portion can flex in the
side-to-side direction relative to the binding interface, while the
forward toe portion of the boot upper remains fixed against
side-to-side flexibility. A flexible connection may be employed to
couple the binding interface to the snowboard boot upper to allow
the segment of the lower portion thereof to flex relative to the
binding interface. The flexible connection may extend along a
substantial length of at least one of the heel portion, the in-step
portion and the toe portion of the upper. The flexible connection
may be constructed within at least one of the lateral and medial
sidewalls of the snowboard boot upper. The flexible connection may
include a flexible panel to mount the interface to the boot upper.
The panel may include a fabric or other flexible material,
including stretchable and non-stretchable materials.
Inventors: |
Musho, Edward J.; (S.
Burlington, VT) ; Taylor, Graham Scott; (Morrisville,
VT) ; Phillips, Franklin S.; (Richmond, VT) ;
Curtis, Joseph; (Vail, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Jason M. Honeyman
Wolf, Greenfield & Sacks, P.C.
600 Atlantic Avenue
Boston
MA
02210
US
|
Family ID: |
25041494 |
Appl. No.: |
09/755979 |
Filed: |
January 5, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
280/613 ;
280/611 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 5/0401 20130101;
A43B 5/0466 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/613 ;
280/611 |
International
Class: |
A63C 009/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A snowboard boot comprising: a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, the snowboard boot
upper including a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step
portion and a heel portion; and a strapless binding interface
adapted to engage with a snowboard binding, the binding interface
being coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the
lower portion disposed rearward of the toe portion to flex relative
to the binding interface to provide side-to-side flexibility when
the binding interface is engaged by a snowboard binding, at least a
segment of the toe portion of the snowboard boot upper being fixed
against side-to-side flexibility relative to the binding
interface.
2. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, wherein the segment of
the lower portion includes the heel portion.
3. The snowboard boot recited in claim 2, wherein the segment of
the lower portion further includes the in-step portion.
4. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, further comprising a
flexible connection coupling the binding interface to the snowboard
boot upper.
5. The snowboard boot recited in claim 4, wherein the snowboard
boot upper includes a lateral side and a medial side, the flexible
connection being disposed adjacent at least one of the lateral and
medial sides.
6. The snowboard boot recited in claim 5, wherein the flexible
connection includes a flexible panel connecting the binding
interface to the snowboard boot upper.
7. The snowboard boot recited in claim 6, wherein the flexible
panel includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper
portion of the panel being attached to the snowboard boot upper and
the lower portion of the panel being attached to the binding
interface.
8. The snowboard boot recited in claim 6, wherein the flexible
panel couples the binding interface to the lateral and medial sides
of the snowboard boot upper.
9. The snowboard boot recited in claim 8, wherein the flexible
panel extends about the heel portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
10. The snowboard boot recited in claim 9, wherein the flexible
panel extends from the heel portion to a region of the snowboard
boot upper forward of the in-step portion.
11. The snowboard boot recited in claim 10, wherein the flexible
panel includes a fabric material.
12. The snowboard boot recited in claim 11, wherein the fabric
material is stretchable.
13. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, wherein the binding
interface is supported at the in-step portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
14. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, further comprising a
restraint to limit movement between the snowboard upper and the
binding interface.
15. The snowboard boot recited in claim 14, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit heel lift between the
snowboard boot upper and the binding interface.
16. The snowboard boot recited in claim 15, wherein the restraint
is disposed at a rear section of the heel portion.
17. The snowboard boot recited in claim 16, wherein the restraint
includes a strap connected between the snowboard boot upper and the
binding interface.
18. The snowboard boot recited in claim 14, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit the side-to-side
flexibility.
19. The snowboard boot recited in claim 18, wherein the restraint
is disposed along at least one of a lateral and medial side of the
snowboard boot upper.
20. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, wherein the binding
interface includes at least one interface feature constructed and
arranged to engage with the snowboard binding.
21. The snowboard boot recited in claim 20, wherein the at least
one interface feature includes a first interface feature disposed
adjacent a lateral side of the boot and a second interface feature
disposed adjacent a medial side of the boot.
22. The snowboard boot recited in claim 21, wherein at least one of
the first and second interface features has at least one recess
that is adapted to receive a portion of the snowboard binding
therein.
23. The snowboard boot recited in claim 1, further comprising an
outsole supported by the lower portion of the snowboard boot upper,
the outsole being coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow the
segment of the lower portion to flex relative to the outsole to
provide the side-to-side flexibility.
24. The snowboard boot recited in claim 23, wherein the toe portion
of the snowboard boot upper is fixed against side-to-side
flexibility relative to the outsole.
25. A snowboard boot comprising: a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, the snowboard boot
upper including a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step
portion and a heel portion; a strapless binding interface adapted
to engage with a snowboard binding; and a fabric coupling the
binding interface to the snowboard boot upper to allow at least a
segment of the lower portion thereof to flex relative to the
binding interface to provide side-to-side flexibility when the
binding interface is engaged by a snowboard binding.
26. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, wherein the segment of
the lower portion includes the heel portion.
27. The snowboard boot recited in claim 26, wherein the segment of
the lower portion further includes the in-step portion.
28. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, wherein the snowboard
boot upper includes a lateral side and a medial side, the fabric
being disposed adjacent at least one of the lateral and medial
sides.
29. The snowboard boot recited in claim 28, wherein the fabric
includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion of
the fabric being attached to the snowboard boot upper and the lower
portion of the fabric being attached to the binding interface.
30. The snowboard boot recited in claim 28, wherein the fabric
couples the binding interface to the lateral and medial sides of
the snowboard boot upper.
31. The snowboard boot recited in claim 30, wherein the fabric
extends about the heel portion of the snowboard boot upper.
32. The snowboard boot recited in claim 31, wherein the fabric
extends from the heel portion to a region of the snowboard boot
upper forward of the in-step portion.
33. The snowboard boot recited in claim 32, wherein the fabric
includes a stretchable material.
34. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, wherein the binding
interface is supported at the in-step portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
35. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, further comprising a
restraint to limit movement between the snowboard upper and the
binding interface.
36. The snowboard boot recited in claim 35, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit heel lift between the
snowboard boot upper and the binding interface.
37. The snowboard boot recited in claim 36, wherein the restraint
is disposed at a rear section of the heel portion.
38. The snowboard boot recited in claim 37, wherein the restraint
includes a strap connected between the snowboard boot upper and the
binding interface.
39. The snowboard boot recited in claim 35, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit the side-to-side
flexibility.
40. The snowboard boot recited in claim 39, wherein the restraint
is disposed along at least one of a lateral and medial side of the
snowboard boot upper.
41. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, wherein the binding
interface includes at least one interface feature constructed and
arranged to engage with the snowboard binding.
42. The snowboard boot recited in claim 41, wherein the at least
one interface feature includes a first interface feature disposed
adjacent a lateral side of the boot and a second interface feature
disposed adjacent a medial side of the boot.
43. The snowboard boot recited in claim 42, wherein at least one of
the first and second interface features has at least one recess
that is adapted to receive a portion of the snowboard binding
therein.
44. The snowboard boot recited in claim 25, further comprising an
outsole supported by the lower portion of the snowboard boot upper,
the outsole being coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow the
segment of the lower portion to flex relative to the outsole to
provide the side-to-side flexibility.
45. The snowboard boot recited in claim 44, wherein the toe portion
of the snowboard boot upper is fixed against side-to-side
flexibility relative to the outsole.
46. A snowboard boot comprising: a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, the snowboard boot
upper having medial and lateral sides and including a lower portion
with a toe portion, an in-step portion and a heel portion; a
strapless binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard
binding; and a flexible connection coupling the binding interface
to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the lower portion
to flex relative to the binding interface to provide side-to-side
flexibility when the binding interface is engaged by a snowboard
binding, the flexible connection extending along a substantial
length of at least one of the heel portion, the in-step portion and
the toe portion.
47. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, wherein the segment of
the lower portion includes the heel portion.
48. The snowboard boot recited in claim 47, wherein the segment of
the lower portion further includes the in-step portion.
49. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, wherein flexible
connection is disposed adjacent at least one of the lateral and
medial sides.
50. The snowboard boot recited in claim 49, wherein the flexible
connection includes a flexible panel connecting the binding
interface to the snowboard boot upper.
51. The snowboard boot recited in claim 50, wherein the flexible
panel includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper
portion of the panel being attached to the snowboard boot upper and
the lower portion of the panel being attached to the binding
interface.
52. The snowboard boot recited in claim 50, wherein the flexible
panel couples the binding interface to the lateral and medial sides
of the snowboard boot upper.
53. The snowboard boot recited in claim 52, wherein the flexible
panel extends about the heel portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
54. The snowboard boot recited in claim 53, wherein the flexible
panel extends from the heel portion to a region of the snowboard
boot upper forward of the in-step portion.
55. The snowboard boot recited in claim 54, wherein the flexible
panel includes a fabric material.
56. The snowboard boot recited in claim 55, wherein the fabric
material is stretchable.
57. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, wherein the binding
interface is supported at the in-step portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
58. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, further comprising a
restraint to limit movement between the snowboard upper and the
binding interface.
59. The snowboard boot recited in claim 58, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit heel lift between the
snowboard boot upper and the binding interface.
60. The snowboard boot recited in claim 59, wherein the restraint
is disposed at a rear section of the heel portion.
61. The snowboard boot recited in claim 60, wherein the restraint
includes a strap connected between the snowboard boot upper and the
binding interface.
62. The snowboard boot recited in claim 58, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit the side-to-side
flexibility.
63. The snowboard boot recited in claim 62, wherein the restraint
is disposed along at least one of the lateral and medial sides of
the snowboard boot upper.
64. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, wherein the binding
interface includes at least one interface feature constructed and
arranged to engage with the snowboard binding.
65. The snowboard boot recited in claim 64, wherein the at least
one interface feature includes a first interface feature disposed
adjacent the lateral side of the boot and a second interface
feature disposed adjacent the medial side of the boot.
66. The snowboard boot recited in claim 65, wherein at least one of
the first and second interface features has at least one recess
that is adapted to receive a portion of the snowboard binding
therein.
67. The snowboard boot recited in claim 46, further comprising an
outsole supported by the lower portion of the snowboard boot upper,
the outsole being coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow the
segment of the lower portion to flex relative to the outsole to
provide the side-to-side flexibility.
68. The snowboard boot recited in claim 67, wherein the toe portion
of the snowboard boot upper is fixed against side-to-side
flexibility relative to the outsole.
69. A snowboard boot comprising: a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, the snowboard boot
upper having medial and lateral sidewalls and including a lower
portion with a toe portion, an in-step portion and a heel portion;
a strapless binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard
binding; and a flexible connection coupling the binding interface
to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the lower portion
to flex relative to the binding interface to provide side-to-side
flexibility when the binding interface is engaged by a snowboard
binding, the flexible connection being constructed within at least
one of the lateral and medial sidewalls of the snowboard boot
upper.
70. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, wherein the segment of
the lower portion includes the heel portion.
71. The snowboard boot recited in claim 70, wherein the segment of
the lower portion further includes the in-step portion.
72. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, wherein the flexible
connection includes a flexible panel connecting the binding
interface to the snowboard boot upper.
73. The snowboard boot recited in claim 72, wherein the flexible
panel is constructed within the lateral and medial sidewalls of the
snowboard boot upper.
74. The snowboard boot recited in claim 73, wherein the flexible
panel extends about the heel portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
75. The snowboard boot recited in claim 74, wherein the flexible
panel extends from the heel portion to a region of the snowboard
boot upper forward of the in-step portion.
76. The snowboard boot recited in claim 75, wherein the flexible
panel includes a fabric material.
77. The snowboard boot recited in claim 76, wherein the fabric
material is stretchable.
78. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, wherein the binding
interface is supported at the in-step portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
79. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, further comprising a
restraint to limit movement between the snowboard upper and the
binding interface.
80. The snowboard boot recited in claim 79, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit heel lift between the
snowboard boot upper and the binding interface.
81. The snowboard boot recited in claim 80, wherein the restraint
is disposed at a rear section of the heel portion.
82. The snowboard boot recited in claim 81, wherein the restraint
includes a strap connected between the snowboard boot upper and the
binding interface.
83. The snowboard boot recited in claim 79, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit the side-to-side
flexibility.
84. The snowboard boot recited in claim 83, wherein the restraint
is disposed along at least one of the lateral and medial sides of
the snowboard boot upper.
85. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, wherein the binding
interface includes at least one interface feature constructed and
arranged to engage with the snowboard binding.
86. The snowboard boot recited in claim 85, wherein the at least
one interface feature includes a first interface feature disposed
adjacent the lateral side of the boot and a second interface
feature disposed adjacent the medial side of the boot.
87. The snowboard boot recited in claim 86, wherein at least one of
the first and second interface features has at least one recess
that is adapted to receive a portion of the snowboard binding
therein.
88. The snowboard boot recited in claim 69, further comprising an
outsole supported by the lower portion of the snowboard boot upper,
the outsole being coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow the
segment of the lower portion to flex relative to the outsole to
provide the side-to-side flexibility.
89. The snowboard boot recited in claim 88, wherein the toe portion
of the snowboard boot upper is fixed against side-to-side
flexibility relative to the outsole.
90. A snowboard boot comprising: a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, the snowboard boot
upper having medial and lateral sides and including a lower portion
with a toe portion, an in-step portion and a heel portion; an
outsole supported below the lower portion of the snowboard boot
upper; and a flexible panel disposed between at least a portion of
the snowboard boot upper and the outsole, a first portion of the
flexible panel being connected to the snowboard boot upper and a
second portion of the flexible panel being connected to the outsole
to allow a segment of the lower portion of the snowboard boot upper
to flex relative to the outsole to provide side-to-side flexibility
therebetween.
91. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, wherein the segment of
the lower portion includes the heel portion.
92. The snowboard boot recited in claim 91, wherein the segment of
the lower portion further includes the in-step portion.
93. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, wherein the flexible
panel extends about the heel portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
94. The snowboard boot recited in claim 93, wherein the flexible
panel extends from the heel portion to a region of the snowboard
boot upper forward of the in-step portion.
95. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, wherein the flexible
panel includes a fabric material.
96. The snowboard boot recited in claim 95, wherein the fabric
material is stretchable.
97. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, further comprising a
restraint to limit movement between the snowboard upper and the
outsole.
98. The snowboard boot recited in claim 97, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit heel lift between the
snowboard boot upper and the outsole.
99. The snowboard boot recited in claim 98, wherein the restraint
is disposed at a rear section of the heel portion.
100. The snowboard boot recited in claim 99, wherein the restraint
includes a strap connected between the snowboard boot upper and the
outsole.
101. The snowboard boot recited in claim 97, wherein the restraint
is constructed and arranged to limit the side-to-side
flexibility.
102. The snowboard boot recited in claim 101, wherein the restraint
is disposed along at least one of the lateral and medial sides of
the snowboard boot upper.
103. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, further comprising a
strapless binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard
binding, the binding interface being supported on the snowboard
boot upper.
104. The snowboard boot recited in claim 103, wherein the binding
interface is supported at the in-step portion of the snowboard boot
upper.
105. The snowboard boot recited in claim 103, wherein the binding
interface includes at least one interface feature constructed and
arranged to engage with the snowboard binding.
106. The snowboard boot recited in claim 105, wherein the at least
one interface feature includes a first interface feature disposed
adjacent the lateral side of the boot and a second interface
feature disposed adjacent the medial side of the boot.
107. The snowboard boot recited in claim 106, wherein at least one
of the first and second interface features has at least one recess
that is adapted to receive a portion of the snowboard binding
therein.
108. The snowboard boot recited in claim 90, wherein the toe
portion of the snowboard boot upper is fixed against side-to-side
flexibility relative to the outsole.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a snowboard boot having a
binding interface that facilitates side-to-side movement of the
snowboard boot relative to a snowboard.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Snowboard riders typically prefer some degree of
side-to-side flexibility between their snowboard boots and
snowboard. Side-to-side flexibility (also known as foot roll)
enhances the rider's ability to more easily shift his or her weight
and body position over the board for balance and control.
Side-to-side flexibility may also improve the overall ride by
allowing bumps to be more readily absorbed than if the boot was
rigidly attached to the board without any side-to-side flexibility.
Thus, the ability of the boot to roll side-to-side relative to the
board provides a performance and feel that many riders find
desirable.
[0005] Snowboard boots are of three general types, i.e., hard
boots, soft boots and hybrid boots which combine various attributes
of both hard and soft boots. A hard boot is similar to an alpine
ski boot and typically employs a relatively hard molded plastic
shell for supporting a rider's foot and lower leg with minimal foot
movement allowed by the boot. Hard boots are generally preferred by
riders that engage in racing or alpine riding which requires fluid
edge-to-edge movement for smooth carving in the snow at high
speeds. Hard boots conventionally have been secured to the board
using plate bindings that include front and rear bails or clips
that engage the toe and heel portions of the boot. The bails in
these bindings inherently allow the boot to roll side-to-side
relative to the snowboard, which is desirable for the reasons
stated above.
[0006] Soft boots, as the name suggests, typically are comprised of
softer materials that are more flexible than the plastic shell of a
hard boot. Soft boots are generally more comfortable and easier to
walk in than hard boots, and are generally favored by riders that
engage in recreational, "freestyle" or trick-oriented snowboarding.
Soft boots are conventionally secured to the board using either a
strap binding or a step-in binding.
[0007] A strap binding, which has been the traditional type of
binding for a soft boot, includes several straps that are tightened
across various portions of the boot. For example, an ankle strap
may be provided to hold down a rider's heel and a toe strap may be
provided to hold down the front portion of the rider's foot. The
straps are typically formed of materials that inherently have some
flexibility that allows the sole of the boot to roll side-to-side
within the binding.
[0008] Step-in snowboard bindings employing a side-grip
configuration have been developed for use with soft snowboard
boots. Examples of such side-grip binding systems are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,299,823 (Glaser) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,406
(Anderson). These bindings generally employ rigid, metal engagement
members that firmly grip opposite sides of a metal binding
interface that is attached to the boot sole. The metal-to-metal
contact between the binding and the interface results in the sole
of the boot being more rigidly attached to the board than with a
plate or strap binding. Additionally, because these types of
bindings do not directly engage the toe or heel of the boot, the
sole of the boot must generally be relatively stiff to prevent the
rider's toe or heel from undesirably lifting away from the board
when riding. This stiffness is typically provided by an internal
stiffener that extends the length and width of the sole. The
combination of a stiff boot sole and a binding that rigidly grips
the sides thereof essentially eliminates any side-to-side flex or
roll between the boot sole and the binding. Thus, when a snowboard
boot is secured to the binding, there is little, if any,
side-to-side roll or flexibility between the boot sole and the
board.
[0009] It should be understood that when the sole of the boot is
rigidly attached to the board, the boot itself, particularly if a
hard shell boot, provides little, if any, side-to-side flexibility.
The side-to-side flexibility afforded by snowboard boots is
generally a function of the stiffness of the boot shell, which
impacts the ability of the rider to roll the foot or flex the ankle
within the boot. However, since the ankle joint itself has limited
side-to-side flexibility, even soft shell boots may not provide the
rider with as much side-to-side flexibility as a rider may desire
when used in conjunction with side-grip bindings that rigidly
engage the boot sole. Rather, the feel that most riders desire is
achieved only by enabling the sole of the boot to roll side-to-side
relative to the board.
[0010] In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present
invention to provide an improved snowboard boot having a binding
interface for engaging with a snowboard binding.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In one illustrative embodiment of the invention, a snowboard
boot is provided that comprises a snowboard boot upper constructed
and arranged to receive a user's foot therein and a strapless
binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard binding. The
snowboard boot upper includes a lower portion with a toe portion,
an in-step portion and a heel portion. The binding interface is
coupled to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the lower
portion disposed rearward of the toe portion to flex relative to
the binding interface to provide side-to-side flexibility when the
binding interface is engaged by a snowboard binding. At least a
segment of the toe portion of the snowboard boot upper is fixed
against side-to-side flexibility relative to the binding
interface.
[0012] In another illustrative embodiment, a snowboard boot is
provided that comprises a snowboard boot upper constructed and
arranged to receive a user's foot therein, and a strapless binding
interface adapted to engage with a snowboard binding. The snowboard
boot upper includes a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step
portion and a heel portion. A fabric couples the binding interface
to the snowboard boot upper to allow at least a segment of the
lower portion thereof to flex relative to the binding interface to
provide side-to-side flexibility when the binding interface is
engaged by a snowboard binding.
[0013] In a further illustrative embodiment of the invention, a
snowboard boot is provided that comprises a snowboard boot upper
constructed and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, and a
strapless binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard
binding. The snowboard boot upper has medial and lateral sides and
includes a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step portion and
a heel portion. A flexible connection couples the binding interface
to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the lower portion
to flex relative to the binding interface to provide side-to-side
flexibility when the binding interface is engaged by a snowboard
binding. The flexible connection extends along a substantial length
of at least one of the heel portion, the in-step portion and the
toe portion.
[0014] In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, a
snowboard boot is provided that comprises a snowboard boot upper
constructed and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, and a
strapless binding interface adapted to engage with a snowboard
binding. The snowboard boot upper has medial and lateral sidewalls
and includes a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step portion
and a heel portion. A flexible connection couples the binding
interface to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the
lower portion to flex relative to the binding interface to provide
side-to-side flexibility when the binding interface is engaged by a
snowboard binding. The flexible connection is constructed within at
least one of the lateral and medial sidewalls of the snowboard boot
upper.
[0015] In a further illustrative embodiment of the invention, a
snowboard boot is provided that comprises a snowboard boot upper
constructed and arranged to receive a user's foot therein, and an
outsole. The snowboard boot upper has medial and lateral sides and
includes a lower portion with a toe portion, an in-step portion and
a heel portion. The outsole is supported below the lower portion of
the snowboard boot upper. A flexible panel is disposed between at
least a portion of the snowboard boot upper and the outsole. A
first portion of the flexible panel is connected to the snowboard
boot upper and a second portion of the flexible panel is connected
to the outsole to allow a segment of the lower portion of the
snowboard boot upper to flex relative to the outsole to provide
side-to-side flexibility therebetween.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent with reference to the
following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a step-in
snowboard binding system incorporating a snowboard boot according
to one embodiment of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the snowboard boot of
FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the snowboard boot
of FIGS. 1-2;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along
section line 4-4 of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line
5-5 of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a schematic view similar to FIG. 5 illustrating
the snowboard boot in a non-flexed position;
[0023] FIG. 5B is a schematic view similar to FIG. 5 illustrating
the snowboard boot in a flexed position;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line
6-6 of FIG. 2;
[0025] FIG. 7 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional detail
illustrating one embodiment of the binding interface to boot
construction; and
[0026] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 2
illustrating one embodiment of a restraint for limiting
side-to-side flexibility of the snowboard boot upper.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The present invention is directed to a snowboard boot that
includes an upper and a binding interface that is adapted to engage
with a snowboard binding. The interface is supported from the boot
upper so that even when the interface is rigidly engaged by the
binding, the boot upper can advantageously roll or flex
side-to-side relative to the interface, and consequently the
snowboard, to provide a rider with a desirable feel of foot roll.
As discussed below, the binding interface can be movably supported
on the boot upper so that at least a portion of the boot upper may
roll or lift relative to the interface. The snowboard boot may be
configured as any type of snowboard boot, including soft shell
boots, hard shell boots and hybrid boots. In addition, the binding
interface can be adapted to be compatible with any type of
binding.
[0028] The boot may be configured so that one or more selected
portions of the boot upper can flex relative to the binding
interface to provide a particular feel while riding. As discussed
below, the boot may be configured so that a segment of the boot
upper rearward of its toe portion can flex in the side-to-side
direction relative to the binding interface, while at least a
segment of the forward toe portion of the boot upper remains fixed
against side-to-side flexibility. For example, the boot may be
configured to allow a segment of the heel portion and/or the
in-step portion of the boot upper to flex relative to the binding
interface, while the toe portion remains fixed against flex. A
rider may find such a configuration desirable because it provides
the rider with the feel of a strap binding while riding in a
step-in binding system. In this regard, the ankle strap of a
traditional strap binding allows side-to-side flexibility at the
rear heel portion of the boot, while it is not uncommon for the toe
strap to be tightened about the boot to reduce or inhibit flex at
the forward toe portion of the boot. It is to be appreciated,
however, that the boot may be configured in any manner to provide
any desirable flex characteristics between the boot upper and the
binding interface.
[0029] A flexible connection may be employed to couple the binding
interface to the snowboard boot upper to allow a segment of the
lower portion thereof to flex relative to the binding interface.
The flexible connection may extend along a substantial length of at
least one of the heel portion, the in-step portion and the toe
portion of the upper. The flexible connection may be constructed
within at least one of the lateral and medial sidewalls of the
snowboard boot upper.
[0030] The flexible connection may be configured in a manner and/or
formed from a material that allows the upper to flex relative to
the interface. For example, the connection may include a flexible
panel to mount the interface to the boot upper. The panel may
include a fabric or other flexible material, including stretchable
and non-stretchable materials. The panel may be configured with
pleats or other features that provide flexibility.
[0031] In one illustrative embodiment of the invention shown in
FIGS. 1-7, the snowboard boot 20 includes a snowboard boot upper 22
and a binding interface 24 that is supported on the boot upper in a
manner that, even when the interface is rigidly engaged by a
binding 26, advantageously allows a portion of the boot upper to
roll or flex side-to-side relative to a snowboard 27. As discussed
below, the binding interface 24 is movably supported on a lower
portion of the boot upper and is adapted to engage the binding so
that, when the interface is fixed to the binding, at least a
segment of the lower portion of the upper may roll or lift relative
to the interface.
[0032] The snowboard boot 20 shown in FIGS. 1-7 is a soft boot that
includes a boot upper 22 adapted to receive a rider's foot therein,
and an outsole 28. An inner liner or bladder 30 may be arranged in
the boot upper 22 to provide the rider with comfort and support. A
lacing system 32 may be provided so that the rider can tighten the
boot about his foot. An adjustable ankle strap 34 may be employed
to hold the rider's heel down within the boot during riding. As
discussed above, the present invention is not limited to any
particular boot configuration, and can be employed with boots of
many other types.
[0033] As illustrated, a strapless binding interface 24 is
supported below the in-step portion of the boot upper 22 between
the forward toe portion 36 and the rear heel portion 38 thereof.
The binding interface 24 provides an interface for releasably
attaching the boot 20 to a side-grip binding 26. It is to be
appreciated that the interface 24 may be located, as desired,
anywhere on the boot, such as the forward toe portion and/or the
rearward heel portion. The forward toe portion 36 includes portions
of the boot forward of the in-step portion. Similarly, the rear
heel portion 38 includes portions of the boot rearward of the
in-step portion.
[0034] The binding interface 24 includes one or more interface
features 42 that are configured to mate with corresponding
engagement members of a binding. The interface 24 also includes a
sidewall 44 that extends about the heel portion 38 of the boot
upper from the lateral side 46 to the medial side 48 thereof for
attaching the interface to the boot upper. A pair of mounting tabs
50 extend upwardly from lateral and medial portions of the
interface sidewall 44 to provide mounting locations for mounting
the ankle strap 34 using any suitable fastener 51.
[0035] It is to be understood that the interface 24 may be provided
with any desired configuration. For example, the interface sidewall
44 may be configured so that it does not extend about the back of
the heel portion 38 of the boot upper, but rather is comprised of a
pair of sidewalls disposed on opposite sides of the upper. In
addition, or alternatively, the mounting tabs 50 may be reduced in
height to locate the strap mounting locations closer to the boot
sole.
[0036] In one illustrative embodiment, the interface 24 includes a
relatively rigid interface core 52 and a more pliable sidewall 44
that conforms to the boot upper. Although any suitable
manufacturing process may be employed, the interface 24 may be
formed by molding the interface sidewall 44 onto a preformed
interface core 52. In one embodiment, the interface core and the
interface sidewall are formed from thermoplastic polyurethane
materials. It is to be appreciated, however, that the binding
interface may be formed from any plastic, metal or any of a number
of other suitable materials, or combinations thereof.
[0037] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-7,
the binding interface 24 is mounted to the boot upper 22 employing
a flexible panel 54 that allows the boot upper to roll or flex in a
side-to-side direction L (FIGS. 5A-5B). The flexible panel 54 lies
adjacent to and extends about the heel portion 38 of the upper from
its lateral side 46 to its medial side 48. As shown in FIGS. 2-3,
the flexible panel 54 terminates forward of the binding interface
24 in the in-step region of the boot.
[0038] The binding interface 24 is coupled to the boot upper 22 by
attaching an upper portion 56 of the panel 54 to the boot upper and
attaching a lower portion 58 of the panel to the interface. By
indirectly mounting the interface to the boot upper in this manner,
the boot upper 22 can roll or flex, particularly at its heel
portion 38, in the side-to-side direction relative to the binding
interface 24 when it is engaged by a binding. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 5B, the rider can exert a lateral force P.sub.1
that is sufficient to cause a lower portion of the boot upper to
lift as shown at 59. The opposite side of the upper may compress,
collapse or otherwise flex. This allows a portion of the boot upper
22 to roll in a side direction L.sub.1 relative to the binding
interface 24. Since the interface 22 is rigidly clamped to the
binding 26, a portion of the boot upper 22 effectively rolls in a
side-to-side direction relative to the board 27.
[0039] The flexible panel 54 may be provided with any configuration
apparent to one of skill. For example, the panel may be configured
so that it does not extend about the back of the heel portion of
the boot upper, but rather is comprised of a pair of flexible
panels disposed on opposite sides of the upper. As discussed below,
such a configuration may be particularly suited to varying the
amount of flex to the medial and lateral sides of the boot.
[0040] The flexible panel 54 may be formed from any suitable
material capable of allowing the boot upper 22 to move relative to
the binding interface 24. In one embodiment, the panel 54 is formed
from a stretchable material that allows a portion of the boot upper
22 to lift away from the interface 24 as it is subjected to a force
by the rider. One example of a material particularly suited for
this application is a stretchable fabric formed from a polyester
mesh backed with a 0.8 mm thick sheet of polyvinylchloride (PVC).
It is to be appreciated, however, that other stretchable and
non-stretchable materials may be employed for the flexible
panel.
[0041] In one illustrative embodiment, the upper portion 56 of the
panel is attached directly to the sides of the boot upper with a
series of stitches 60 while the lower portion 58 of the panel is
indirectly attached to the binding interface with a panel coupling
62 that is configured to be easily attached to the interface. The
panel coupling 62 extends about the heel portion 38 of the upper
below the flexible panel 54. The lower portion 58 of the flexible
panel 54 is joined to the upper portion 64 of the coupling using a
series of stitches 66 while the coupling 62 is bonded to the
binding interface 24 using any suitable adhesive 68.
[0042] The interface sidewall 44, with the exception of the
mounting tabs 50, may be bonded to the coupling 62 and any portion
of the flexible panel 54 located opposite the interface sidewall.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the bond line 70 between the interface
sidewall 44 and the flexible panel 54 generally follows the upper
edge 72 of the interface sidewall, except in the region of the
mounting tabs where the bond line 70 runs below the mounting tabs
to enhance the side-to-side flexibility of the boot upper.
[0043] The panel coupling 62 may include a bottom wall 74 to
increase the bonding surface area between the flexible panel 54 and
the binding interface 24. As illustrated in FIGS. 4-7, the bottom
wall 74 may be attached to the lower edges of the coupling sidewall
76 and the portion of the flexible panel disposed forward of the
sidewall. In one embodiment, the bottom wall 74 is bonded to the
coupling sidewall 76 and the flexible panel 54 using a suitable
adhesive. However, any suitable attachment arrangement may be used
for the bottom panel.
[0044] As illustrated, the bottom wall 74 is configured to extend
the length of the boot upper 22. However, it is contemplated that
other bottom wall configurations may be implemented. 5 For example,
the bottom wall 74 may terminate proximate the forward edge of the
flexible panel.
[0045] The panel coupling 62 may be formed from any suitable
material that may be joined to other materials using various
fastening techniques, such as bonding and stitching. In one
embodiment, the coupling sidewall 76 and the bottom wall 74 may be
formed from a non-woven material, such as a felt-like material,
having a thickness of approximately 1.0 mm.
[0046] Although the use of a panel coupling for attaching the
flexible panel to the binding interface has advantages, as
described above, it is to be appreciated that is not necessary to
employ the coupling to attach the panel to the interface. Rather,
the flexible panel 54 may be attached to the binding interface 24
using any suitable technique, including directly attaching the
panel to the interface using any suitable adhesive or mechanical
fastener. In this regard, the flexible panel 54 may be configured
in a manner similar to the panel coupling 62 to wrap below the boot
upper.
[0047] To facilitate assembly of the boot, the flexible panel 54
and the coupling 62 may be separately formed as a skirt-type
component 78 that is configured to surround selected portions of
the boot upper. Once attached to the boot upper, the skirt 78
isolates the selected portions from the binding interface and/or
outsole, and acts to flexibly couple those portions of the upper to
the binding interface. The binding interface 24 and the outsole 28
may then be assembled to the skirt component 78 and non-isolated
portions of the boot upper 22 using conventional manufacturing
techniques, such as gluing.
[0048] As indicated above, it may be desirable to fix the toe
portion 36 of the boot upper 22 against side-to-side flexibility
relative to the binding interface 24 so that the boot allows the
rider to experience the feel of a strap binding while engaged by a
step-in binding. This may be accomplished by bonding a selected
region of the boot upper to the bottom wall 74 of the skirt 78.
Since the bottom wall 74 of the skirt is also bonded to the binding
interface 24 30 and/or the outsole 28, the selected region becomes
fixed to the interface and/or outsole.
[0049] In one illustrative embodiment, the forward portion of the
boot upper 22, including the toe portion 36, is bonded to the
bottom wall 74 of the skirt. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the portion
of the boot upper 22 fixed to the bottom wall 74 terminates at a
bond line 80 located in the in-step region of the boot. The bond
line 80 extends diagonally across the width of the boot from its
medial side 48 to its lateral side 46 in a forward direction.
Consequently, a greater amount of the medial side of the boot upper
22 is fixed against movement, as compared to the lateral side, so
that the boot upper 22 may flex a greater amount in the
medial/inner direction. This configuration provides the rider with
a feel similar to that of a boot secured by a strap binding, in
which a boot can roll in the medial direction more than the lateral
direction.
[0050] The amount and direction of side-to-side flexibility may be
controlled by varying the location and orientation of the bond line
80 between the boot upper 22 and the skirt bottom wall 74 and/or
the outsole 28 (should the bottom wall not extend the full length
of the boot). For example, moving the bond line 80 forward
increases flex, while moving the bond line rearward reduces flex.
Consequently, as one of skill would readily appreciate, selected
portions of the boot upper 22 may be fixed relative to the binding
interface 24 to vary the feel of the boot when riding.
[0051] The amount and direction of side-to-side flexibility may
also be controlled by selecting the size of the flexible panel 54
coupling the boot upper 22 and the binding interface 24. In this
regard, as the size of the flexible panel increases, the
side-to-side flexibility increases between the boot upper 22 and
the interface 24. Conversely, as the size of the flexible panel
decreases, the side-to-side flexibility decreases between the boot
upper and the interface.
[0052] In one illustrative embodiment, the distance between the
attachment points of the flexible panel 54 to the boot upper 22 and
the binding interface 24 may be varied to affect the flexibility of
the boot. As shown in FIGS. 4-5, the distance G.sub.1, G.sub.2
between the upper edge 72 of the interface sidewall and the
attachment point (e.g., stitches 60) for the flexible panel to the
boot upper can be varied to change the flex characteristics along
the lateral and/or medial sides of the boot. The distance G.sub.1,
G.sub.2 may either be the same or different along the lateral and
medial sides of the boot. In one embodiment, the distance G.sub.1,
G.sub.2 is maintained approximately 8 mm to 11 mm (based on a gap
width between the binding interface and the boot upper of
approximately 5 mm to 8 mm) along both the lateral and medial sides
of the boot and also about the rear heel portion of the boot.
[0053] In another illustrative embodiment, the flexible panel 54
may be formed from materials having different flex characteristics
to vary the boot flexibility. For example, the flexible panel 54
may be comprised of several different panels coupling various
portions of the boot upper 22 and the binding interface 24. In one
embodiment, separate lateral and medial panels may be employed to
couple the lateral and medial sides, respectively, of the boot
upper to the interface. To increase flex to the medial/inner side
of the boot, the lateral panel may be formed from a material having
greater flex characteristics than the medial panel. Conversely, to
increase flex to the lateral/outer side of the boot, the medial
panel may be formed from a material having greater flex
characteristics than the lateral panel. In another illustrative
embodiment, the flexible panel 54 may be provided along only one of
the lateral and medial sides of the boot.
[0054] While several illustrative examples have been described
above, it is to be understood that any suitable arrangement may be
employed for varying the flex characteristics of the boot.
Additionally, any combination of the illustrative examples may be
implemented to adjust and control the side-to-side flexibility of
the boot.
[0055] Since heel lift may adversely affect the ride
characteristics of the boot, it may be desirable to limit, if not
prevent, heel lift between the boot upper 22 and the binding
interface 24. Consequently, the boot may include a restraint 90
configured to substantially eliminate heel lift between the boot
upper 22 and the binding interface 24, while also allowing
side-to-side flexibility.
[0056] In one illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-4, the
restraint 90 includes a strap having its upper end 92 attached to
the boot upper 22 and its lower end 94 attached to the binding
interface 24. The strap 90 is located at the rear of the boot upper
and the binding interface along the longitudinal axis of the boot
to allow side-to-side flexibility while preventing heel lift. The
upper end 92 of the strap is joined to the boot upper and the
flexible panel with a series of stitches 96 (which may be the same
as stitches 60), while the lower end 94 is bonded with an adhesive
to the binding interface. As illustrated, the lower end 94 of the
strap may extend across the top of the binding interface 24 below
the heel portion of the boot upper 22 to enhance its attachment to
the interface. While a strap provides an effective restraint, it is
to be understood that other configurations may be employed to
prevent heel lift between the boot upper and the interface.
[0057] To ensure adequate restraint against heel lift, the strap 90
may be configured to have minimal, if any, slack when it is
attached to the boot. The strap may also be formed from a material
that stretches minimally, if at all, when subjected to anticipated
load conditions during riding. In one embodiment, the strap is
formed of a woven nylon material having a width of approximately
1.0 inch. Of course, any suitable material and strap configuration
may be employed to provide a heel lift restraint.
[0058] A flex adjustment feature may be provided to limit or set
the side-to-side flexibility of the boot upper relative to the
binding interface. In one illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 8,
the adjustment feature includes a restraint 98 disposed on one or
both sides of the binding interface 24 that is configured to
receive a portion of the boot laces 32. Thus, when it is desirable
to limit or set the side-to-side flexibility of the boot upper 22,
the rider may wrap the boot laces 32 about the restraint 98 on one
or both sides of the interface so as to hold the boot upper down
relative to the interface when the laces are tightened on the
boot.
[0059] In one embodiment, the restraint 98 may be configured as a
lacing hook as is known in the art. The hook may be integrally
formed with the interface, or alternatively may be a separate
component that is mounted to the interface using any suitable
fastener.
[0060] The boot upper 22 may be constructed in a conventional
manner from any of various materials suitable for snowboard boot
construction. In one illustrative embodiment, the boot upper
includes an outer shell 100 of a durable, relatively soft, flexible
material that readily conforms to the rider's foot, and an inner
lining 102 of material, such as a layer of PVC, that extends upward
from the bottom of the upper to at least above the ankle region of
the boot. A heel stiffener 104 may be provided along the heel
portion of the upper, and a moldable plastic layer 106, such as
SURLYN, may be added to the heel portion 38 of the upper to provide
heel definition. In the present boot construction, the plastic
layer 106 is also configured to provide additional strength in the
region of the flexible panel. A strobel board 108 may be joined in
a conventional manner with stitches 110 to form the bottom layer of
the boot upper. An adjustable inner cuff 112 may be provided to
hold the rider's heel down in the boot when the cuff is tightened
about the inner liner 30.
[0061] As illustrated, the lower portion of the outer shell 100 is
configured to conform to the contour of the binding interface
sidewall 44 so that the interface 24 may nest within the boot upper
to maintain a relatively low boot profile. In one embodiment, the
outer shell 100 is formed from an EVA backed mesh material suitable
for soft boot construction. It is to be understood, however, that
the outer shell may be constructed of any one or combination of
suitable materials. Examples of materials suitable for the outer
shell include, but are not limited to, leather, suede, nubuck and
CORDURA fabric.
[0062] The boot 20 may also include one or more layers of shock
attenuating material to cushion the rider's foot from impacts
encountered while riding. In one illustrative embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4-7, a gel pad 114 is provided in the heel region of the boot
and a foam pad 116 is provided in the toe and in-step regions of
the boot forward of the gel pad. The pads 114, 116 are disposed
between the boot upper 22 and the binding interface 24 to attenuate
shock to the rider's foot. Of course, any suitable materials and
arrangement may be employed to cushion the rider's foot from shock
inducing impacts.
[0063] As mentioned above, many different arrangements are possible
for interfacing a snowboard boot to a binding, and the present
invention is not limited to any particular arrangement. In the
illustrative embodiment discussed below, the binding 26 is a
step-in binding having side-grip engagement members that rotate
along longitudinal axes to engage the binding interface 24, and the
binding interface has one or more recesses 42 adapted to engage the
binding engagement members. It should be appreciated that the
present invention is not limited to a side-grip binding system, or
to one wherein the interface has recesses for engaging the binding
engagement members, as numerous alternate arrangements are possible
that include different features for engaging the binding interface
to the binding.
[0064] One illustrative example of a side-grip binding 26 is
illustrated in FIG. 1 mounted to a snowboard. The binding includes
a base plate 120, and one or more engagement members 122 disposed
on opposite sides of the base plate. The sides of the binding
interface 24 include corresponding interface features 42 that are
adapted to engage with the engagement members 122. The base plate
120 may be mounted to a snowboard 27 in a conventional manner. One
or more of the engagement members 122 may be coupled to an
actuation member 124 so that the user may operate the binding to
selectively lock and release the boot. The actuation member 124
may, for example, be a handle that is pivotally mounted to the base
plate adjacent the engagement members. The engagement members 122
may be elevated above the base plate and extend inwardly to engage
their corresponding interface features 42 (recesses in the
embodiment shown) provided in both the inner/medial side and the
outer/lateral side of the binding interface. At least a portion of
one of the interface features 42 is disposed above the bottom
surface of the boot. One or more recesses may be provided on each
side of the binding interface.
[0065] An example of a binding interface for use with side-grip
bindings is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,179, which is assigned
to The Burton Corporation and is incorporated herein by reference.
In one illustrative embodiment, the recesses 42 are formed of a
nonmetallic material, such as an elastomeric material, to form a
shock absorbing engagement between the boot and the binding.
Non-metallic material also reduces the likelihood of snow being
attracted to and clogging the recesses.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 2, the binding interface 22 may include
multiple recesses 42 on each side with a non-recessed portion
disposed therebetween. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a pair of
recesses 42 is provided along at least one side of the binding
interface. As discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,179 referenced
above, the use of multiple recesses provides a stronger engagement
between the binding interface and the binding than a single recess.
A pair of recesses doubles the number of recess mouth comers that
resist forces tending to pry the recesses open. Additionally, a
pair of recesses provides a greater bearing surface preventing
front to back movement between the binding interface and the
binding. When multiple recesses are provided along one or both
sides of the binding interface, they can be distributed about the
center of the length of the boot (i.e., in the in-step area) in a
manner that maximizes the stability of the engagement between the
snowboard boot and the binding.
[0067] In the illustrative embodiment of the invention shown in
FIG. 5, the mouth of each recess 42 is wider than its corresponding
engagement member and the upper and lower walls 126, 128 are
tapered inwardly toward each other to facilitate the engagement
between the binding interface and the binding. In particular, this
recess configuration allows for easier alignment between the
binding interface and the engagement members, even when snow or ice
has accumulated between the boot and the base plate. Additionally,
when the engagement members are moved into engagement with the
recesses, the tapered walls direct accumulated snow and ice out of
the recesses to securely lock the snowboard boot system to the
binding. The walls are angled a sufficient amount to facilitate
alignment with the engagement members without reducing the
effectiveness of the recesses to retain the engagement members
therein. In one embodiment, the walls are angled within a range of
approximately 95-135 degrees from a horizontal plane, with an angle
of approximately 105 degrees having been found to work
effectively.
[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the bottom surface 130 of the
binding interface 24 may be approximately coplanar with or disposed
above a plane Z-Z defined by the bottom surfaces of the toe and
heel portions 36, 38 of the outsole, so that it does not interfere
with the rider's ability to walk in the boot.
[0069] Examples of snowboard side-grip bindings that are compatible
with the illustrative binding interface shown in the figures are
described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,722,680; 5,941,555; and 6,123,354,
each of which is assigned to The Burton Corporation and is
incorporated herein by reference. The side-grip binding and the
recesses for engagement therewith have several advantages as
described in the related patents. However, it should be understood
that the present invention is not limited in this respect, and that
the binding interface can alternatively include other interface
feature configurations (e.g., plates, rods or the like that extend
toe-to-heel or side-to-side, and that extend either within the
profile of the boot, underneath the boot or outwardly beyond the
boot profile) that are adapted to engage with compatible engagement
members on other types of bindings to secure the boot thereto.
[0070] It should be understood that the binding interface of the
present invention may be configured to interface with various
step-in or side-grip binding arrangements, and is not limited to
the particular binding arrangement discussed above. For example,
the binding interface 24 may include outwardly extending bail or
plate members, longitudinal rods, or other interface features
capable of securing a boot to a binding. The snowboard boot system
can be provided with a set of interchangeable binding interfaces
that include various interface features to allow the suspension
system of the present invention to be used with different snowboard
binding arrangements.
[0071] Having described several embodiments of the invention in
detail, various modifications and improvements will readily occur
to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and improvements
are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Accordingly,
the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not
intended as limiting. The invention is limited only as defined by
the following claims and the equivalents thereto.
* * * * *