U.S. patent application number 15/017634 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-11 for sock.
The applicant listed for this patent is Delta Galil Industries Ltd.. Invention is credited to Liron BILSKY, Khaled OMAR, Muhammad OMAR.
Application Number | 20160227843 15/017634 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56565529 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160227843 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BILSKY; Liron ; et
al. |
August 11, 2016 |
SOCK
Abstract
A sock includes: an elongated toe-area to cover at least all
phalanges of all toes of a foot of a wearer of the sock; a sole
area to cover a sole of the foot; and an ankle area to at least
partially cover an ankle of the foot. The elongated toe-area is
distinct from other areas of the sock. The elongated toe-area
extends backwardly towards the ankle, covering part of the sole of
the foot; optionally covering between 25 to 50 percent of the
length of the foot. Optionally, the toe-area is a split toe-area
having two or more sub-regions. Optionally, the elongated toe-area
is a non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area.
Inventors: |
BILSKY; Liron; (Kfar Vradim,
IL) ; OMAR; Khaled; (Deir Al-Asad, IL) ; OMAR;
Muhammad; (Deir Al-Asad, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Delta Galil Industries Ltd. |
Karmiel |
|
IL |
|
|
Family ID: |
56565529 |
Appl. No.: |
15/017634 |
Filed: |
February 7, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62113449 |
Feb 8, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41B 11/01 20130101;
A41B 11/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41B 11/01 20060101
A41B011/01 |
Claims
1. A sock comprising: a toe-area to cover at least all phalanges of
all toes of a foot of a wearer of the sock; a sole area to cover a
sole of the foot; an ankle area to at least partially cover an
ankle of the foot; wherein the toe-area is distinct from other
areas of the sock; wherein the toe-area is an elongated toe-area
and extends backwardly beyond an entirety of a length of each
phalanx of the foot, and covers at least part of metatarsal bones
of the foot.
2. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is an
elongated split-toe area comprising a first region and a second
region, wherein the first region borders with the second region,
wherein the first region is distinct from the second region,
wherein the first region covers at least a great toe of the foot,
wherein the second region covers at least a little toe of the
foot.
3. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is an
elongated split-toe area comprising a first region and a second
region, wherein the first region borders with the second region,
wherein the first region is distinct from the second region,
wherein the first region covers at least a great toe of the foot,
wherein the second region covers at least a little toe of the foot;
wherein the toe-area is connected to the sole area via a seam,
wherein the seam is located entirely over metatarsal bones of the
foot, wherein the seam does not cover any phalanges of the
foot.
4. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is an
elongated split-toe toe-area comprising a first region and a second
region, wherein the first region borders with the second region,
wherein the first region is distinct from the second region,
wherein the first region covers at least a great toe of the foot,
wherein the second region covers at least a little toe of the foot;
wherein the toe-area is connected to the sole area via a seam-less
connection, wherein the seam-less connection is located entirely
over metatarsal bones of the foot, wherein the seam-less connection
does not cover any phalanges of the foot.
5. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is connected
to the sole area via a seam.
6. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is connected
to the sole area via a seam, wherein the seam is located entirely
over metatarsal bones of the foot, wherein the seam does not cover
any phalanges of the foot.
7. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is connected
to the sole area via a seam-less connection, wherein the seam-less
connection is located entirely over metatarsal bones of the foot,
wherein the seam-less connection does not cover any phalanges of
the foot.
8. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is formed of
a first fabric; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of a second, different, type of fabric.
9. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is formed of
a first fabric having a first thickness; wherein the sole area,
which borders the elongated toe-area, is formed of a second fabric
having a second, different, thickness.
10. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is formed
of a first fabric having a first type of three-dimensional
features; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of a second fabric having a second, different,
type of three-dimensional features.
11. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is formed
of a fabric having a first type of three-dimensional ribs or
protrusions; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of said fabric having a second, different, type
of three-dimensional ribs or protrusions.
12. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is formed
of a fabric having a first type of porosity or ventilation
characteristic; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of said fabric having a second, different, type
of type of porosity or ventilation characteristic.
13. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area comprises
at least 280 thread lines of fabric.
14. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area comprises
at least 250 thread lines of fabric.
15. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area comprises
between 249 and 301 thread lines of fabric.
16. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area covers at
least 25 percent of a length of the foot and less than 50 percent
of the length of the foot.
17. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area covers at
least 33 percent of a length of the foot and less than 51 percent
of the length of the foot.
18. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area covers at
least 40 percent of a length of the foot and less than 51 percent
of the length of the foot.
19. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area.
20. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having exactly two
right angles; wherein a first right angle of said two right angles
is located at a front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great
toe of the foot.
21. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 100 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 80 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid.
22. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 100 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 80 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a third angle which is greater than the
first angle, the third angle located at a front-outer tip of the
sock which covers a little toe of the foot, the third angle being
an angle of the front-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid,
the third angle located opposite from the second angle; a fourth
angle which is smaller than the second angle, the fourth angle
located opposite from the first angle, the fourth angle being an
angle of the rear-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid.
23. The sock of claim 1, wherein the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 110 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 70 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a third angle which is greater than the
first angle, the third angle located at a front-outer tip of the
sock which covers a little toe of the foot, the third angle being
an angle of the front-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid,
the third angle located opposite from the second angle; a fourth
angle which is smaller than the second angle, the fourth angle
located opposite from the first angle, the fourth angle being an
angle of the rear-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims priority and benefit from
U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/113,449, filed on Feb.
8, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of articles of
clothing.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A sock is an article of clothing worn on the foot. Millions
of people worldwide wear socks every day, in order to keep their
feet warm, to avoid frostbite, to reduce friction between the feet
and shoes, to absorb sweat.
[0004] Some persons wear socks having a particular shape or color,
for example, as part of uniforms worn by a worker of a particular
organization or a student of a particular school.
[0005] Socks may be formed of one or more suitable materials, for
example, nylon, cotton, polyester, wool, silk, or a mixture or
blend of multiple materials.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present invention may include, for example, a sock, a
pair of socks, or other suitable articles of clothing, as well as
methods, processes and systems for producing or manufacturing such
socks or such articles of clothing.
[0007] The present invention may provide other and/or additional
benefits or advantages.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIGS. 1A-1J are schematic illustrations of multiple views of
a sock having an enlarged or elongated fore-foot area or toe-area,
in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present
invention;
[0009] FIGS. 2A-2J are schematic illustrations of multiple views of
another sock having an enlarged or elongated fore-foot area or
toe-area, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention;
[0010] FIGS. 3A-3J are schematic illustrations of multiple views of
another sock having an enlarged or elongated fore-foot area or
toe-area, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention;
[0011] FIGS. 4A-4J are schematic illustrations of multiple views of
another sock having an enlarged or elongated fore-foot area or
toe-area, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention;
[0012] FIGS. 5A-5C are schematic illustrations of several socks,
including one prior art sock and also including five novel socks
that are in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention;
[0013] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a sock, in accordance
with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 7A is an illustration of a front-area of a prior art
sock;
[0015] FIG. 7B is an illustration of a front-area (or toe-area) of
a sock in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention, demonstrating the elongated or enlarged toe-area
that the present invention may provide;
[0016] FIG. 8A is a schematic illustration of a conventional sock
having a conventional toe-area;
[0017] FIG. 8B is a schematic illustration of a sock having an
enlarged or elongated toe-area in accordance with some
demonstrative embodiments of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 8C is a schematic illustration of sock having enlarged
or elongated toe-area in accordance with some demonstrative
embodiments of the present invention, demonstrating how the sock
may fit over a foot of a wearer;
[0019] FIG. 9A is a schematic illustration of a conventional
knitting scheme for a conventional sock;
[0020] FIG. 9B is a schematic illustration of a knitting scheme for
a sock in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a sock in accordance
with the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a sock in accordance
with the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 12A is a schematic illustration of a conventional
toe-area implemented as a symmetrical trapezoid;
[0024] FIG. 12B is a schematic illustration of a novel ergonomic
toe-area/fore-foot area implemented as a non-symmetrical trapezoid
and enabling a greater line-count or thread-count, in accordance
with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 12C is a schematic illustration of a novel elongated
toe-area/fore-foot area enabling improved fit and significantly
increased line-count or thread-count, in accordance with the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 13A is a schematic illustration of a conventional
toe-area implemented as a symmetrical trapezoid;
[0027] FIG. 13B is a schematic illustration demonstrating an
attempt to merely increase the number of lines in a conventional
toe-area, resulting in an overly-narrow front edge of the
toe-area;
[0028] FIG. 13C is a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
ergonomic toe-area/fore-foot area implemented as a non-symmetrical
trapezoid and enabling a greater line-count or thread-count, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 13D is a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
elongated toe-area/fore-foot area enabling improved fit and
significantly increased line-count or thread-count, in accordance
with the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 14A is a schematic illustration of a conventional
toe-area having up to 90 thread lines;
[0031] FIG. 14B a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
ergonomic toe-area implemented as a non-symmetrical trapezoid and
enabling a greater line-count or thread-count, in accordance with
the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 14C is a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
elongated toe-area/fore-foot area enabling improved fit and
significantly increased line-count or thread-count, in accordance
with the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 15A a schematic illustration of a conventional split
toe-area having up to 90 thread lines;
[0034] FIG. 15B is a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
ergonomic split toe-area implemented as a non-symmetrical trapezoid
and enabling a greater line-count or thread-count, in accordance
with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 15C is a schematic illustration demonstrating a novel
elongated toe-area/fore-foot area enabling improved fit and
significantly increased line-count or thread-count, in accordance
with the present invention;
[0036] FIGS. 16A-16F are schematic illustrations demonstrating that
toe-area or split-toe area (or fore-foot area, or split fore-foot
area) having unique or different properties, relative to other
regions or areas of the sock or of the fore-foot area, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0037] FIGS. 17A-17E are schematic illustrations demonstrating
patterning or processing of the toe-area or the elongated-toe-area
or the elongated split-toe area, in accordance with the present
invention;
[0038] FIGS. 18A-18B are illustrations demonstrating (respectively)
a top view and a bottom view of a sock, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present invention;
[0039] FIGS. 19A-19B are illustrations demonstrating (respectively)
a top view and a bottom view of a sock, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present invention;
[0040] FIGS. 20A-20B are illustrations demonstrating (respectively)
a top view and a bottom view of a sock, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present invention;
[0041] FIGS. 21A-21B are illustrations demonstrating (respectively)
a top view and a bottom view of a sock, in accordance with some
embodiments of the present invention;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0042] The term "sock" as used herein may include, for example, any
suitable sock or garment that is intended for covering the foot (or
a portion thereof) or for enclosing the foot (or a portion
thereof). Such sock may be of various sizes or dimensions, and may
be implemented as, for example, a business sock or formal sock, a
casual sock, a sports sock, a training sock, a sock suitable for
wearing indoors and/or outdoors, a medical sock, an elastic sock, a
knee-high sock, a bare sock or ankle sock, or the like.
[0043] Although portions of the discussion herein and/or the
drawings may refer, for demonstrative purposes, to a sock worn on
the foot, the present invention may further comprise, or may be
used in conjunction with, other suitable garments; for example,
stockings, lingerie items, hose, hosiery, leggings, soft shoes or
fabric-made shoes, or other suitable articles of clothing or items
of clothing or garments.
[0044] Applicants have realized that a conventional sock includes a
conventional toe-box or toe-area, which covers only the toe
fingers. In contrast, the present invention comprises a sock having
a toe-box or toe-area that is extended backwardly (e.g., towards
the ankle, towards the back of the foot) or is elongated backwardly
or is enlarged backwardly, and reaches at least or approximately
25% of the foot length, or reaches at least or approximately 33% of
the foot length, or reaches at least or approximately 40% of the
foot length, or reaches at least or approximately 50% of the foot
length, or reaches at least or approximately 51% of the foot
length, or reaches at least or approximately 60% of the foot
length, or reaches at least or approximately 66% of the foot
length, or reaches at least or approximately 70% of the foot
length, or reaches at least or approximately 75% of the foot
length; or reaches at least or approximately 80 or 85 or 90 or 95
or 99 or 100 percent of the foot length (e.g., optionally reaching
the ankle area, or bordering directly with the ankle area, or
attaching directly through a single seam or a single hem with the
ankle area); or reaches (or covers) approximately between 25 to 75
percent of the foot length; or reaches (or covers) approximately
between 25 to 66 percent of the foot length; or reaches (or covers)
approximately between 33 to 66 percent of the foot length; or
reaches (or covers) approximately between 25 to 50 percent of the
foot length; or reaches (or covers) approximately between 33 to 75
percent of the foot length. Other suitable percentage values or
ratios may be used, in accordance with the present invention.
[0045] In some embodiments, instead of creating a conventional
toe-box, a special pre-defined knitting program may be used by a
knitting machine in order to separately knit the enlarged fore-foot
area, in parallel to or in series with the knitting of other
region(s) of the sock.
[0046] In accordance with the present invention, the sock may have
a toe area without excessive fabric that interrupt between the foot
and the shoe; and the sock may lack or may exclude "ears" or "ear
portions" that typically exist in a conventional sock in which a
seam is present at the front edge of the tow-box, or on top of the
toe itself, or under the toe itself. The present invention may
allow to create a perfect fore-foot area that may be connected
integrally to the central area (the mid-foot area or midfoot area)
of the sock as one integrated piece.
[0047] In some embodiments of the present invention, the combined
toe-area/fore-foot-area may reach backwardly and may cover up to 75
percent of the length of the foot, or even 80 or 90 or 95 or 99 or
100 percent of the length of the foot, almost reaching the ankle
area (or actually reaching the ankle area). In some embodiments,
for example, in socks that are intended for children or toddlers or
infants or babies, or in other small-size socks or "petit" size,
the combined toe-area/fore-foot-area may reach the ankle area of
the sock, or may reach the ankle, such that the entire combined
toe-area/fore-foot-area may be seam-less (or hem-less or
stitch-less) and such that a single seam (or hem, or stitch) may
exist at or near (or towards, or halfway towards, or two-thirds
towards) the ankle area (e.g., under the foot, or over the foot),
connecting the combined toe-area/fore-foot-area to the ankle area
(or the hindfoot area or the hind-foot area) or to the central area
(or the midfoot area or the mid-foot area) of the sock.
[0048] Reference is made to FIGS. 1A-1J, which are schematic
illustrations of multiple views of a sock 101 having an enlarged or
elongated fore-foot area (or, an elongated toe-area, or an
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot-area), in accordance with
some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Sock 101
may comprise an enlarged or elongated toe area or front area,
thereby providing an improved fit or a perfect fit for the foot of
the wearer.
[0049] Reference is made to FIGS. 2A-2J, which are schematic
illustrations of multiple views of a sock 101 having an enlarged or
elongated fore-foot area (or, an elongated toe-area, or an
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot-area), in accordance with
some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Sock 102
may comprise an enlarged or elongated toe area or front area,
thereby providing an improved fit or a perfect fit for the foot of
the wearer.
[0050] Reference is made to FIGS. 3A-3J, which are schematic
illustrations of multiple views of a sock 103 having an enlarged or
elongated fore-foot area (or, an elongated toe-area, or an
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot-area), in accordance with
some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Sock 103
may comprise an enlarged or elongated toe area or front area,
thereby providing an improved fit or a perfect fit for the foot of
the wearer.
[0051] Reference is made to FIGS. 4A-4J, which are schematic
illustrations of multiple views of a sock 101 having an enlarged or
elongated fore-foot area (or, an elongated toe-area, or an
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot-area), in accordance with
some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Sock 104
may comprise an enlarged or elongated toe area or front area,
thereby providing an improved fit or a perfect fit for the foot of
the wearer.
[0052] Socks 101-104, and particularly sock 102 and/or sock 104,
demonstrate a sock having a non-symmetrical (and optionally
extended or enlarged or elongated) split-toe area, in accordance
with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Each
sub-area of the toe-area (or, of the combined
toe-area/fore-foot-area) may optionally have different properties,
colors, fabric type, fabric processing type, finishing, patterning,
and/or other features. The sock may comprise an enlarged or
elongated or extended toe area (which may be split or divided as
shown), thereby providing an improved fit or a perfect fit for the
foot of the wearer.
[0053] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area may be formed as
a non-symmetrical trapezoid, in contrast with conventional socks
which may have a symmetrical trapezoid toe-area. Applicants have
realized that the non-symmetrical toe-area may better hold or grasp
the foot or the toes, and may provide an improved fit and greater
convenience to the wearer. Optionally, the toe-area may be
elongated or extended or enlarged, extending downwardly toward the
heel area, and occupying an area having a length that is at least
1.5 times or 2.0 times relative to the length of the big-toe
itself. The extended toe-area may be implemented as a seam-less
region, free of any seams or stitches or stitching.
[0054] In some embodiments, the extended or elongated toe-area
(which may be a split-toe area, namely a toe-area divided into two
or more regions; or may be a unified un-divided toe-area) may have
one or more properties which may differ from properties of other
areas of the sock; for example, three-dimensional (3D) knitting or
patterning, design knitting, stripes, lines, rows, columns, shapes,
design knitting in a particular shape, logo, branding, holes,
macro-vent, ribs, plain knitting, cushioning knitting; utilization
of different fabric(s), or fabric type(s), or type(s) of processing
of fabrics; utilization of different colors, fabric finishing,
fabric processing; different elasticity, rigidity, flexibility,
rigidness, stiffness; different number of lines of fabric, or
threads, or thread-count or line-count; different fabric effects
(e.g., towel style), or the like. Such properties may be
implemented in the toe-area (or in the split-toe area, or in a
sub-division of the split-toe area) in a particular manner which
may differ from other regions(s) of the sock.
[0055] Reference is made to FIGS. 5A-5C, which are schematic
illustration of six socks 3201-3206; the first sock 3201 being a
prior art sock, whereas the other socks 3202-3206 are socks in
accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present
invention.
[0056] Conventional sock 3201 may have a short toe-area, which may
only partially cover the big toe (indicated with an oval). The
short toe-area may be a symmetrical trapezoid or an isosceles
trapezoid. Typically, up to 90 lines or threads may be comprised in
the short toe-area of conventional sock 3201. A seam or stitch or
hem typically exists over or across the toes, or over the big toe;
or under the toes, or under the big toe.
[0057] Sock 3202 may have a short toe-area; but the short toe-area
may be a non-symmetrical trapezoid, providing an ergonomic
structure and improved fitting; and enabling to include up to 140
lines or threads in the short toe-area; and avoiding undesired
"ears" or excess fabric (e.g., not occupied by human toes) that
often exist in conventional socks. In some embodiments, up to 140
lines or threads may be comprised in the short toe-area of sock
3202.
[0058] Sock 3203 may have an elongated toe-area which extends
backwardly towards the heel and covers the fore-foot area, thereby
creating a unified component of toe-area/fore-foot-area. The
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot area may cover the entire
human big toe; and may cover, or may reach until, approximately 25%
or 30% or 33% or 40% or 50% of the entire length of the foot-area
of the sock. This structure may thus obviate the need to have a
seam or a stitch that is located over or under the human toes in
conventional sock 3201. For demonstrative purposes, the ending of
the combined toe-area/fore-foot area may be symmetrical trapezoid
or isosceles trapezoid. In some embodiments, around 250 or 280 or
300 (or more than 300) lines or threads may be comprised in the
elongated toe-area/fore-foot-area of sock 3203.
[0059] Sock 3204 may combine the novel features of sock 3202 with
the novel features of sock 3202. For example, sock 3204 may have an
elongated toe-area which extends backwardly towards the heel and
covers the fore-foot area, thereby creating a unified component of
toe-area/fore-foot-area. The elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot
area may cover the entire human big toe; and may cover, or may
reach until, approximately 25% or 30% or 33% or 40% or 50% of the
entire length of the foot-area of the sock. This structure may thus
obviate the need to have a seam or a stitch or a hem that is
located over or under the human toes in conventional sock 3201.
Furthermore, the ending of the combined toe-area/fore-foot area may
be non-symmetrical trapezoid, providing ergonomic structure and
improved fitting. In some embodiments, around 250 or 280 or 300
lines or threads may be comprised in the elongated
toe-area/fore-foot-area of sock 3204.
[0060] Sock 3205 may be generally similar to sock 3204, but may
feature a split-toe structure; such that the elongated combined
toe-area/fore-foot-area may be divided or split into two (or more)
sub-areas. Sock 3205 may have an elongated toe-area which extends
backwardly towards the heel and covers the fore-foot area, thereby
creating a unified component of toe-area/fore-foot-area. The
elongated combined toe-area/fore-foot area may cover the entire
human big toe; and may cover, or may reach until, approximately 25%
or 30% or 33% or 40% or 50% of the entire length of the foot-area
of the sock. This structure may thus obviate the need to have a
seam or a stitch or a hem that is located over or under the human
toes in conventional sock 3201. Furthermore, the ending of the
combined toe-area fore-foot area may be non-symmetrical trapezoid,
providing ergonomic structure and improved fitting. In some
embodiments, around 250 or 280 or 300 lines or threads may be
comprised in the elongated toe-area fore-foot-area of sock
3205.
[0061] Sock 3206 may be generally similar to sock 3202, but may
feature a split-toe structure; such that the short toe-area may be
divided or split into two (or more) sub-areas. The short toe-area
may be a non-symmetrical trapezoid, providing an ergonomic
structure and improved fitting; and enabling to include up to 140
lines or threads in the short toe-area; and avoiding undesired
"ears" or excess fabric (e.g., not occupied by human toes) that
often exist in conventional socks. In some embodiments, up to 140
lines or threads may be comprised in the short toe-area of sock
3206.
[0062] Reference is made to FIG. 6, which is a schematic
illustration of a sock 2100, in accordance with some demonstrative
embodiments of the present invention. Instead of having a small
convention toe-area 2101, the sock of the present invention may
comprise an enlarged toe-area that includes both regions 2101 and
2102. Similarly, instead of the conventional toe-area 2101 that
borders an adjacent area 2103, the sock of the present invention
may comprise an enlarged toe-area 2101-2012 that borders an
adjacent enlarged area 2103-2014.
[0063] Line A-B may indicate an optional seam or hem that connects
or attaches the front area or the fore-foot area of the present
invention (which comprises areas 2101-2104) with the main area 2105
of the sock (which may optionally comprise a heel-area 2106). Line
A-B may be a visible seam, or a visible line; or may be an
invisible seam, or an invisible line.
[0064] Line E-F may indicate an optional seam that connects or that
borders between the enlarged (or elongated) toe-area 2101-2012, and
its adjacent enlarged area 2103-2104. Line E-F may be a visible
seam, or a visible line; or may be an invisible seam, or an
invisible line.
[0065] Line C-D, as well as points H and F, are denoted in the
drawing for demonstrative purposes only and in order to emphasize
some of the unique features of the present invention relative to
conventional sock; and they need not be comprised (or be visible)
in sock 2100 of the present invention.
[0066] An arrow 2191 demonstrates the length of the novel,
elongated toe-area of sock 2100; in contrast with a nearby arrow
2192 which indicates the length of a convention prior-art sock.
[0067] Reference is made to FIG. 7A, which is an illustration of a
front-area of a prior art sock 2201; shown in contrast with FIG.
7B, which is an illustration of a front-area (or toe-area) of a
sock 2202 in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention, demonstrating the elongated or enlarged toe-area
that the present invention may provide.
[0068] FIGS. 7A-7B further demonstrate, for example, that the sock
2202 of the present invention has a more elongated structure, which
may allow an improved fit (or grasp) on the wearer's foot; and may
lacks "ears" or "ear regions" that the convention sock 2201 may
include.
[0069] FIGS. 7A-7B further demonstrate, for example, that the
slopes or slanting of the front-area of the conventional sock 2201
are approximately 45 degrees; whereas the slopes or slanting of the
front-area of the sock 2202 of the present invention are different,
and may be significantly reduced (e.g., a slanting of 10 or 15 or
20 or 25 or 30 degrees, relative to the long axis of the sock).
[0070] Reference is made to FIG. 8A, which is a schematic
illustration of a conventional sock 2301 having a conventional
toe-area 2311; and to FIG. 8B, which is a schematic illustration of
a sock 2302 having an enlarged or elongated toe-area 2322 in
accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present
invention.
[0071] As demonstrated in FIG. 8A, the conventional sock 2301 has
toe-area 2311 which may cover the five toes of the foot but may
leave excess fabric protruding sideways relative to the toes, or
excess "ears" or "ear regions" there. Furthermore, in the
conventional sock 2301, the conventional toe-area 2311 requires a
connecting seam to be exist over the toe(s) and/or under the
toe(s), thereby creating undesired friction in that area. The
conventional sock 2301 fails to provide continuity of the fabric
from the front-side or front-edge of the sock 2301 (or the foot),
towards and through-out the fore-foot.
[0072] As demonstrated in FIG. 8B, the sock 2302 of the present
invention may comprise an elongated toe-area 2322 which may
seamlessly continue as a continuous or seamless fabric through or
until, approximately, the center of the foot (or the sock), rather
than having a toe-area that abruptly terminates (e.g., with an
uncomfortable seam) immediately as the toes themselves end. The
present invention thus allows to continuously connect the
center-foot area, with the elongated or enlarge toe-box area,
thereby creating an ergonomic structure with improved fit around
the wearer's foot, and without the undesired feel or look of
excessive "ears" fabric(s). The present invention allows continuous
knitting of the foot-center area as a continuous extension of, or a
seamless extension of, the toe-box area (or vice versa), without a
bordering seam that needs to exist over the toe(s) or under the
toe(s). Optionally, a connecting seam may be used, for example,
over or under the center of the foot (or the sock), to connect the
fore-foot area with the back-foot area.
[0073] Reference is made also to FIG. 8C, which is a schematic
illustration of sock 2302 having enlarged or elongated toe-area
2322 in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention, demonstrating how the sock 2302 may fit over a
foot of a wearer. The five top ovals or ellipses indicate the five
toes of the foot (big toe; second toe; third toe; fourth toe;
little toe); the "P" denotes a location of a phalanx, or a location
of a set of three phalanges of each toe (e.g., each "P" denoting a
set of distal phalanx, middle phalanx, and proximal phalanx); the
"MB" denotes a location of metatarsal bones, of which two are shown
(rather than five) in order to avoid over-crowding of the drawing;
the "MT" denotes a location of metatarsophalangeal joint(s)
(showing only two instead of five, to not over-crowd the drawing);
the "TM" denotes a location of tarsometatarsal joint(s) (showing
only two instead of five, to not over-crowd the drawing).
[0074] In accordance with some embodiments of the present
invention, the elongated toe-box or toe-area, and/or the
non-symmetrical toe-box or toe-area, may cover an entirety of all
lengths of all the phalanges of the foot; and may cover all the
metatarsophalangeal; and may optionally extend backwardly towards
the ankle and may cover also a portion (but not all) of the
metatarsal bones.
[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, toe-box or
toe-area or fore-foot area may cover, for example, between 25 to 50
percent of the entire length of the foot. In some embodiments of
the present invention, toe-box or toe-area or fore-foot area may
cover, for example, between 30 to 50 percent of the entire length
of the foot. In some embodiments of the present invention, toe-box
or toe-area or fore-foot area may cover, for example, between 33 to
50 percent of the entire length of the foot. In some embodiments of
the present invention, toe-box or toe-area or fore-foot area may
cover, for example, between 40 to 50 percent of the entire length
of the foot. In some embodiments of the present invention, toe-box
or toe-area or fore-foot area may cover, for example, between 25 to
45 percent of the entire length of the foot. In some embodiments of
the present invention, toe-box or toe-area or fore-foot area may
cover, for example, between 30 to 45 percent of the entire length
of the foot. In some embodiments of the present invention, toe-box
or toe-area or fore-foot area may cover, for example, between 33 to
45 percent of the entire length of the foot. In some embodiments of
the present invention, toe-box or toe-area or fore-foot area may
cover, for example, between 33 to 40 percent of the entire length
of the foot. In some embodiments of the present invention, toe-box
or toe-area or fore-foot area may cover, for example, between 25 to
33 percent of the entire length of the foot. Other suitable ratios
or dimensions may be used.
[0076] Reference is made to FIG. 9A, which is a schematic
illustration of a conventional knitting scheme 2401 for a
conventional sock; and to FIG. 9B, which is a schematic
illustration of a knitting scheme 2402 for a sock in accordance
with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.
[0077] As demonstrated in FIG. 9A, in the conventional knitting
scheme 2401, each two lines are formed by using the same number of
needles; and the knitting scheme 2401 is structured by utilizing a
repetition of two-line cycles, thereby allowing to include up to 95
or 100 lines in the toe-box areas.
[0078] In contrast, as demonstrated in FIG. 9B, the knitting scheme
2402 of the present invention may utilize varying needle selection
cycles, for example, having eight lines per cycle of needle
selection. This may enable creation of the elongated or extended or
enlarged toe area, which may include approximately 250 or 260 or
270 or 280 or 290 or 300 lines, or over 200 lines, or over 250
lines or over 300 lines (e.g., of threads of knitted fabric),
thereby providing higher resolution or finer resolution to the
fabric or the extended toe-box area.
[0079] In some embodiments, for example, the top half of knitting
pattern 2402 may correspond to the area that covers the top-side of
the toes and fore-foot; whereas the bottom half of knitting pattern
2402 may correspond to the area that covers the bottom-side of the
toes and fore-foot. The two halves of knitting scheme 2402 may be
generally similar, or may be substantially symmetrical to each
other, or may be mirror image of each other.
[0080] Reference is made to FIG. 10, which is a schematic
illustration of a sock 2501 in accordance with the present
invention. The sock 2501 may comprise a unified, continuous-
fabric, seamless region, that extends from point E at the front of
the sock, extending backwardly towards the center of the foot,
reaching the line (or the seam) denoted A-B. This extended or
elongated or enlarged or combined or unified toe-box/fore-foot
area, from point E to line A-B, may be substantially longer or
larger (e.g., two or three times longer or larger) relative to a
conventional, small, toe-box area that typically extends from point
E to broken line C-D. Additionally, in the sock 2501 of the present
invention, there may be no seam(s) at all within the combined
elongated fore-foot/toe-box area (from point E to line A-B);
instead of having a seam at line C-D in a conventional sock.
[0081] Reference is made to FIG. 11, which is a schematic
illustration of a sock 2601 in accordance with the present
invention. The sock 2601 may comprise a unified, continuous-fabric,
seamless region, that extends from the front edge of the sock,
extending backwardly towards the center of the foot, reaching
(without any seams) approximately one-third or one-half or
two-thirds of the length of the foot. This extended or elongated or
enlarged or combined or unified toe-box/fore-foot area, shown in
darker shade in FIG. 26, may be substantially longer or larger
(e.g., two or three or four times longer or larger) relative to a
conventional, small, toe-box area that typically extends only until
a portion of the toe or until the entire length of the toe itself,
and not beyond the toe. Additionally, in the sock 2501 of the
present invention, there may be no seam(s) at all within the
combined elongated fore-foot/toe-box area (the darker shade);
instead of having a seam at or under (or on top of) the toe itself
in a conventional sock. The entire fore-foot region is thus covered
with, or enclosed in, a perfectly-fitting and seam-less
toe/forefoot sock area, free of seams or stitches or stitching,
free of cuts or excess fabric or "ear shaped" protruding
regions.
[0082] Reference is made to FIG. 12A, demonstrating a conventional
toe-area 2701 implemented as a symmetrical trapezoid; and to FIG.
12B, demonstrating a novel ergonomic toe-area/fore-foot area 2702
implemented as a non-symmetrical trapezoid and enabling a greater
line-count or thread-count; as well as to FIG. 12C, demonstrating a
novel elongated toe-area/fore-foot area 2703 enabling improved fit
and significantly increased line-count or thread-count.
[0083] Reference is made to FIG. 13A, demonstrating a conventional
toe-area 2801 implemented as a symmetrical trapezoid; and to FIG.
13B, demonstrating an attempt to merely increase the number of
lines in such conventional toe-area, resulting in a overly-narrow
front edge A-B of a toe-area 2802.
[0084] Reference is also made to FIG. 13C, demonstrating a novel
ergonomic toe-area/fore-foot area 2803 implemented as a
non-symmetrical trapezoid and enabling a greater line-count or
thread-count; and to FIG. 13D, demonstrating a novel elongated
toe-area/fore-foot area 2804 enabling improved fit and
significantly increased line-count or thread-count.
[0085] Reference is made to FIG. 14A, demonstrating a conventional
toe-area 2901 having up to 90 lines; and to FIG. 14B, demonstrating
a novel ergonomic toe-area 2902 implemented as a non-symmetrical
trapezoid and enabling a greater line-count or thread-count; and to
FIG. 14C, demonstrating a novel elongated toe-area/fore-foot area
2903 enabling improved fit and significantly increased line-count
or thread-count.
[0086] In accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention, referring now to FIG. 14B, the angle A of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid (of the toe-box, or the toe-area, or the
combined toe-area/fore-foot-area) may be smaller than 120 degrees;
or may be smaller than 115 degrees; or may be smaller than 110
degrees; or may be smaller than 105 degrees; or may be smaller than
100 degrees; or may be smaller than 95 degrees; or may be smaller
than 92 degrees; or may be approximately 90 degrees; or may be
exactly 90 degrees.
[0087] In accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the
present invention, referring now to FIG. 14B, the angle A of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid (of the toe-box, or the toe-area, or the
combined toe-area/fore-foot-area) may be in the range of 90 to 120
degrees; or may be in the range of 90 to 115 degrees; or may be in
the range of 90 to 110 degrees; or may be in the range of 90 to 105
degrees; or may be in the range of 90 to 100 degrees; or may be in
the range of 90 to 95 degrees; or may be in the range of 95 to 120
degrees; or may be in the range of 95 to 115 degrees; or may be in
the range of 95 to 110 degrees; or may be in the range of 95 to 105
degrees; or may be in the range of 95 to 100 degrees; or may be in
the range of 100 to 120 degrees; or may be in the range of 100 to
115 degrees; or may be in the range of 100 to 110 degrees; or may
be in the range of 100 to 105 degrees; or may be in the range of
105 to 120 degrees; or may be in the range of 110 to 115 degrees;
or may be in the range of 115 to 120 degrees. The angle D of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid may be equal to the difference between
180 degrees and the value (in degrees) of angle A. The angle B of
the non-symmetrical trapezoid may be greater than angle A; for
example, angle B may be at least 1 degree greater than angle A, or
angle B may be at least 3 degrees greater than angle A, or angle B
may be at least 5 degrees greater than angle A, or angle B may be
at least 8 degrees greater than angle A, or angle B may be at least
10 degrees greater than angle A, or angle B may be at least 12
degrees greater than angle A, or angle B may be at least 15 degrees
greater than angle A, or angle B may be at least 18 degrees greater
than angle A, or angle B may be at least 20 degrees greater than
angle A, or angle B may be at least 22 degrees greater than angle
A, or angle B may be at least 25 degrees greater than angle A. The
angle C of the non-symmetrical trapezoid may be equal to the
difference between 180 degrees and the value (in degrees) of angle
B.
[0088] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be equal to 90 degrees, and angle D may be
equal to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be greater than 100
degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80 degrees.
[0089] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 93 degrees; angle D
may be in the range of 87 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0090] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 95 degrees; angle D
may be in the range of 85 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0091] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 97 degrees; angle D
may be in the range of 83 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0092] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 100 degrees; angle
D may be in the range of 80 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0093] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 105 degrees; angle
D may be in the range of 75 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0094] In some demonstrative implementations of the present
invention, angle A may be in the range of 90 to 110 degrees; angle
D may be in the range of 70 to 90 degrees; whereas angle B may be
greater than 100 degrees, and angle C may be smaller than 80
degrees.
[0095] The above degrees or ranges, as well as other suitable
degree values, or ranges of degree values, may be used for the
elongated trapezoid of the toe-area, or for the non-symmetrical
trapezoid of the toe-area, or for the elongated non-symmetrical
trapezoid of the toe-area, or for the elongated trapezoid of the
combined toe-area/fore-foot-area.
[0096] Reference is made to FIG. 15A, demonstrating a conventional
split toe-area 3001 having up to 90 lines; and to FIG. 15B,
demonstrating a novel ergonomic split toe-area 3002 implemented as
a non-symmetrical trapezoid and enabling a greater line-count or
thread-count; and to FIG. 15C, demonstrating a novel elongated
toe-area/fore-foot area 3003 enabling improved fit and
significantly increased line-count or thread-count.
[0097] Reference is made to FIGS. 16A-16F, demonstrating that the
toe-area or the split-toe area (or the fore-foot area, or the split
fore-foot area) may have unique or different properties, relative
to other regions or areas of the sock or of the fore-foot area; for
example, by utilizing a different fabric or material, by utilizing
a different fabric processing or fabric finishing, by utilizing
different colors, by utilizing different patterning, by selectively
utilizing different effects or features (e.g., holes, protrusions,
ribs, craters, 3-D patterns, or the like); for example,
three-dimensional (3D) knitting or patterning, design knitting,
stripes, lines, rows, columns, shapes, design knitting in a
particular shape, logo, branding, holes, macro-vent, ribs, plain
knitting, cushioning knitting; utilization of different fabric(s),
or fabric type(s), or type(s) of processing of fabrics; utilization
of different colors, fabric finishing, fabric processing; different
elasticity, rigidity, flexibility, rigidness, stiffness; different
number of lines of fabric, or threads, or thread-count or
line-count; different fabric effects (e.g., towel style), and/or
other suitable methods.
[0098] For example, FIG. 16A demonstrates a split toe-area 3101
which may have different properties relative to other regions of
the fore-foot and/or the sock, and/or may utilize different
fabric(s), different processing, towel-like fabric, patterning,
different smoothness, or the like. FIG. 16B demonstrates a toe-area
3102 which may have different sub-regions having different colors,
patterns, different fabric types, and/or multiple fabric-processing
types. FIG. 16C demonstrates a split toe-area 3103 having a
patterning style based on rows or lines. FIG. 16D demonstrates a
split toe-area 3104 having holes, apertures, craters, protrusions,
and/or other three dimensional effects. FIG. 16E demonstrates a
split toe-area 3105 having a "Chevron" type of patterning. FIG. 16F
demonstrates a split toe-area 3106 which may have 3-D patterning,
spacer knitting, and/or other effects. These features may be
combined, and may be applied to a split toe-area of a sock, to a
non-split (unified, monolithic) toe-area of a sock, to a split or
non-split fore-foot area or toe-box of a sock, or the like.
[0099] Reference is made to FIGS. 17A-17E, demonstrating patterning
or processing of the toe-area or the elongated-toe-area or the
elongated split-toe area, such as toe-areas 1701-1705. Other
suitable patterns (or multiple patterns combined together, or
placed side-by-side) may be used.
[0100] Reference is made to FIGS. 18A-18B, demonstrating
respectively a top view and a bottom view of a sock 1801, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0101] Reference is made to FIGS. 19A-19B, demonstrating
respectively a top view and a bottom view of a sock 1802, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0102] Reference is made to FIGS. 20A-20B, demonstrating
respectively a top view and a bottom view of a sock 1803, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0103] Reference is made to FIGS. 21A-21B, demonstrating
respectively a top view and a bottom view of a sock 1804, in
accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0104] Socks 1801-1804 may have one or more of the features
described herein, for example, an elongated toe-area and/or a split
toe-area and/or a top-area that is a non-symmetrical trapezoid; or
an elongated fore-foot area and/or a split fore-foot area and/or a
fore-foot area that is a non-symmetrical trapezoid.
[0105] In some embodiments of the present invention, regions and/or
portions and/or elements and/or components may have various scales
and/or ratios and/or dimensions and/or sizes, such that the
elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale,
and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present
invention comprises and includes any combination of parameters
and/or features that is disclosed in the text and/or is shown in
any of the drawings, including the particular values and/or sizes
and/or ratios that are disclosed in the text, and including the
particular ratios and/or scales that are actually shown in the
figures, and including any other suitable value that is disclosed
in this text and/or in any of the drawings. However, in some
embodiments of the present invention, the articles or components
shown in the drawings have the exact scale or ratio that is shown
in the drawing(s) and which may be relied upon; such that the
present invention does indeed comprise, among various other
implementations and embodiments, also and/or at least the exact
scale(s) and/or exact ratio(s) among components or dimensions as
shown in the drawings.
[0106] The applicants have realized that in some embodiments of the
present invention, the exact or the particular dimensions, ratios,
scales and/or properties that are discussed herein and/or are shown
in any of the drawings, are novel and may provide unique advantages
with regard to convenience to the wearer, improved fit or better
grip of the sock, improved functioning of the sock (e.g., during
walking or running or a sports activity), reduced sweating of the
wearer, reduced strain on the user's foot, and/or other functional
advantageous that are not merely obvious design preferences and are
not merely obvious ornamental preferences.
[0107] In the accompanying drawings and/or in the description
herein, any line or solid line or broken line, may optionally
indicate a seam, or a seam-less connection mechanism or a seam-less
attachment mechanism (e.g., gluing, bonding, welding, ultrasonic
cutting, ultrasonic welding), or an edge or a tip or a border, or a
transition between two adjacent regions or elements, or a
transition between two distinct regions or elements.
[0108] Some embodiments of the present invention may comprise a
sock comprising: a toe-area to cover at least all phalanges of all
toes of a foot of a wearer of the sock; a sole area to cover a sole
of the foot; an ankle area to at least partially cover an ankle of
the foot; wherein the toe-area is distinct from other areas of the
sock; wherein the toe-area is an elongated toe-area and extends
backwardly beyond an entirety of a length of each phalanx of the
foot, and covers at least part of metatarsal bones of the foot.
[0109] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is an elongated
split-toe area comprising a first region and a second region;
wherein the first region borders with the second region, wherein
the first region is distinct from the second region, wherein the
first region covers at least a great toe of the foot, wherein the
second region covers at least a little toe of the foot.
[0110] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is an elongated
split-toe area comprising a first region and a second region;
wherein the first region borders with the second region, wherein
the first region is distinct from the second region, wherein the
first region covers at least a great toe of the foot, wherein the
second region covers at least a little toe of the foot; wherein the
toe-area is connected to the sole area via a seam, wherein the seam
is located entirely over metatarsal bones of the foot, wherein the
seam does not cover any phalanges of the foot.
[0111] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is an elongated
split-toe toe-area comprising a first region and a second region,
wherein the first region borders with the second region, wherein
the first region is distinct from the second region, wherein the
first region covers at least a great toe of the foot, wherein the
second region covers at least a little toe of the foot; wherein the
toe-area is connected to the sole area via a seam-less connection,
wherein the seam-less connection is located entirely over
metatarsal bones of the foot, wherein the seam-less connection does
not cover any phalanges of the foot.
[0112] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is connected to
the sole area via a seam. In some embodiments, the elongated
toe-area is connected to the sole area via a seam, wherein the seam
is located entirely over metatarsal bones of the foot, wherein the
seam does not cover any phalanges of the foot.
[0113] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is connected to
the sole area via a seam-less connection, wherein the seam-less
connection is located entirely over metatarsal bones of the foot,
wherein the seam-less connection does not cover any phalanges of
the foot.
[0114] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is formed of a
first fabric; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of a second, different, type of fabric.
[0115] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is formed of a
first fabric having a first thickness; wherein the sole area, which
borders the elongated toe-area, is formed of a second fabric having
a second, different, thickness.
[0116] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is formed of a
first fabric having a first type of three-dimensional features;
wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated toe-area, is
formed of a second fabric having a second, different, type of
three-dimensional features.
[0117] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is formed of a
fabric having a first type of three-dimensional ribs or
protrusions; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of said fabric having a second, different, type
of three-dimensional ribs or protrusions.
[0118] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is formed of a
fabric having a first type of porosity or ventilation
characteristic; wherein the sole area, which borders the elongated
toe-area, is formed of said fabric having a second, different, type
of type of porosity or ventilation characteristic.
[0119] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at
least 249 thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments, the
elongated toe-area comprises at least 250 thread lines of fabric.
In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at least 255
thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area
comprises at least 260 thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments,
the elongated toe-area comprises at least 265 thread lines of
fabric. In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at
least 270 thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments, the
elongated toe-area comprises at least 275 thread lines of fabric.
In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at least 280
thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area
comprises at least 285 thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments,
the elongated toe-area comprises at least 290 thread lines of
fabric. In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at
least 295 thread lines of fabric. In some embodiments, the
elongated toe-area comprises at least 300 thread lines of fabric.
In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises at least 301
thread lines of fabric.
[0120] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area comprises
between 249 and 301 thread lines of fabric; or between 250 and 300
thread lines of fabric; or between 260 and 295 thread lines of
fabric; or between 265 and 290 thread lines of fabric; or between
270 and 290 thread lines of fabric; or between 280 and 290 thread
lines of fabric; or between 280 and 285 thread lines of fabric; or
between 275 and 300 thread lines of fabric.
[0121] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area covers at least
25 percent of a length of the foot and less than 50 percent of the
length of the foot.
[0122] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area covers at least
33 percent of a length of the foot and less than 51 percent of the
length of the foot.
[0123] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area covers at least
40 percent of a length of the foot and less than 51 percent of the
length of the foot.
[0124] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area.
[0125] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having exactly two
right angles; wherein a first right angle of said two right angles
is located at a front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great
toe of the foot.
[0126] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 100 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 80 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid.
[0127] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 100 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 80 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a third angle which is greater than the
first angle, the third angle located at a front-outer tip of the
sock which covers a little toe of the foot, the third angle being
an angle of the front-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid,
the third angle located opposite from the second angle; a fourth
angle which is smaller than the second angle, the fourth angle
located opposite from the first angle, the fourth angle being an
angle of the rear-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid.
[0128] In some embodiments, the elongated toe-area is a
non-symmetrical trapezoid elongated toe-area having: a first angle
in a range of 90 to 110 degrees, the first angle located at a
front-inner tip of the sock which covers a great toe of the foot,
the first angle being an angle of a front-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a second angle in a range of 70 to 90
degrees, the second angle being an angle of a rear-side base of the
non-symmetrical trapezoid; a third angle which is greater than the
first angle, the third angle located at a front-outer tip of the
sock which covers a little toe of the foot, the third angle being
an angle of the front-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid,
the third angle located opposite from the second angle; a fourth
angle which is smaller than the second angle, the fourth angle
located opposite from the first angle, the fourth angle being an
angle of the rear-side base of the non-symmetrical trapezoid.
[0129] Functions, operations, components and/or features described
herein with reference to one or more embodiments, may be combined
with, or may be utilized in combination with, one or more other
functions, operations, components and/or features described herein
with reference to one or more other embodiments, or vice versa.
[0130] While certain features of some embodiments have been
illustrated and described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes, and equivalents may occur to those skilled
in the art. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such
modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents.
* * * * *