QUICK RELEASE LEG GUARD ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A quick release protective equipment assembly is disclosed and may include a fabric sleeve adapted to be worn by an athlete and a piece of protective equipment removably attached to the fabric sleeve by one or more magnetic fasteners and one or magnets embedded in the fabric sleeve and the protective equipment.

Claims

1. A quick release leg guard assembly, comprising: a sleeve adapted to be worn around a leg of a wearer, the sleeve comprising a leg-engaging portion and a plurality of sleeve fasteners attached thereto; a leg guard arranged for engagement with the sleeve and having a plurality of guard fasteners attached thereto at positions aligned with each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners; wherein, at least one of the plurality of sleeve fasteners and the plurality of guard fasteners is a magnet and at least one of the plurality of sleeve fasteners and the plurality of guard fasteners is formed of a magnetically attractive material; and, wherein each of the plurality of guard fasteners is positioned to magnetically engage a corresponding one of the plurality of sleeve fasteners when the leg guard is positioned adjacent the sleeve.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of guard fasteners are each a magnet and the plurality of sleeve fasteners are each formed of a magnetically attractive material.

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sleeve fasteners are each a magnet and the plurality of guard fasteners are each formed of a magnetically attractive material.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the leg guard is a shin guard.

5. The assembly of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners includes a recess, and wherein each of the plurality of guard fasteners is arranged for disposition within the recess.

6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the recess is cup-shaped, and wherein the guard fastener is a cylindrically shaped magnet.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a fabric portion arranged for engaging with the leg of the wearer, and a mounting surface, wherein each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners is attached to the mounting surface, the fabric portion being removably attached to the mounting surface.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the mounting surface is formed of silicone.

9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the leg guard comprises an outer layer formed of an impact-absorbing material.

10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the leg guard comprises an inner cushioning layer.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the guard fasteners are affixed to or disposed on the inner cushioning layer of the leg guard.

12. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the fabric portion comprises laterally extending flaps arranged for adjustably securing the sleeve to the leg of a wearer.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the mounting surface additionally comprises laterally extending closed loops arranged for receiving the laterally extending flaps therethrough.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the laterally extending flaps secure to the sleeve utilizing hook and loop fasteners.

15. The assembly of claim 7 wherein the fabric portion is formed of an elastomeric or textile material.

16. The assembly of claim 1, wherein engagement between the leg guard and the sleeve results in a pull force of between 5.0 pounds and 20 pounds.

17. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetically attractive material is a ferrous metal.

18. A method for applying a quick release leg guard assembly to the leg of a wearer, the method comprising the steps of: applying a sleeve on a leg of a wearer, the sleeve having an outside surface on which a plurality of sleeve fasteners are disposed, each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners including a magnetically attractive material; providing a leg guard having an inside surface on which a plurality of guard fasteners are disposed, each of the plurality of guard fasteners in the form of a magnet and located at a position corresponding with each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners; and, positioning the leg guard adjacent the sleeve to engage each of the plurality of guard fasteners with each of the plurality of sleeve fasteners to engage the leg guard with the sleeve.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the sleeve additionally comprises adjustable flaps, and wherein the method includes the additional step of utilizing the adjustable flaps to secure the sleeve to the leg of a wearer.

20. The method of claim 18, additionally comprising the step of lowering a trouser leg over the sleeve once the sleeve has been applied to the leg of a wearer.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description of embodiments considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of person wearing a quick release leg guard assembly according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a person wearing a leg guard mounting sleeve according to a second exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front view of the quick release leg guard of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the quick release leg guard of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a front view of the leg guard mounting sleeve of FIG. 2.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a front view of the leg guard mounting sleeve of FIG. 2, shown inside out.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of the leg guard mounting sleeve.

[0018] FIG. 7A is a sectional view of the second exemplary embodiment illustrating the manner for engagement of the quick release leg guard with the leg guard mounting sleeve.

[0019] FIG. 8 shows the leg guard mounting sleeve of FIG. 7 on the leg of a person.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of a quick release leg guard.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following disclosure is presented to provide an illustration of the general principles of the present invention and is not meant to limit, in any way, the inventive concepts contained herein. Moreover, the particular features described in this section can be used in combination with the other described features in each of the multitude of possible permutations and combinations contained herein.

[0022] All terms defined herein should be afforded their broadest possible interpretation, including any implied meanings as dictated by a reading of the specification as well as any words that a person having skill in the art and/or a dictionary, treatise, or similar authority would assign particular meaning. Further, it should be noted that, as recited in the specification and in the claims appended hereto, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural referents unless otherwise stated. Additionally, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” when used herein specify that certain features are present in that embodiment, but should not be interpreted to preclude the presence or addition of additional features, components, operations, and/or groups thereof.

[0023] The following disclosure is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description of the invention. The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features of the invention may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form in the interest of clarity and conciseness. In this description, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing figure under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and normally are not intended to require a particular orientation. Terms including “inwardly” versus “outwardly,” “longitudinal” versus “lateral” and the like are to be interpreted relative to one another or relative to an axis of elongation, or an axis or center of rotation, as appropriate. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both moveable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise, and includes terms such as “directly” coupled, secured, etc. The term “operatively coupled” is such an attachment, coupling, or connection that allows the pertinent structures to operate as intended by virtue of that relationship.

[0024] Referring initially to FIG. 1 through FIG. 2, a quick release leg guard assembly is shown and is generally designated 100. As shown, the quick release leg guard assembly includes a quick release leg guard 102 and a leg guard mounting sleeve 104. As described in greater detail below, in general, a baseball catcher can wear a leg guard mounting sleeve 104 on each leg under his baseball trousers. Each leg guard mounting sleeve 104 can include a series of magnets or magnetic discs. Further, each quick release leg guard 102 can include a series of opposed magnets. During use, in order to don a quick release leg guard 102 on each leg, the baseball catcher may place the quick release leg guard 102 adjacent to his, or her, leg and the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 and the quick release leg guard 102 may snap to and engage the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. To remove the quick release leg guard 102, the baseball catcher may simply grab the quick release leg guard 102 and pull it with enough force to overcome the force of attraction between the magnets or between the magnets and magnetic discs.

[0025] Referring now to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, details concerning the construction of the quick release leg guard 102 are illustrated. As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the quick release leg guard 102 may include a shin guard 500 that may include a first end 502 and a second end 504 distanced from the first end 502. The shin guard 500 may be curved to fit around the lower leg of a wearer. Further the shin guard 500 may be generally semi-cylindrical. The shin guard 500 may be a single molded piece or it may include multiple molded pieces connected together with rivets or other appropriate fasteners.

[0026] The shin guard 500 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. Further, the shin guard 500 may include an outer surface 506 and an inner surface 508. The shin guard 500 may include an inner cushioning layer 510 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The inner cushioning layer 510 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 4, the quick release leg guard 102 may include a first recess 512 formed in the inner cushioning layer 510 of the shin guard 502. The first recess 512 may be formed near the first end 502 of the shin guard 500 along a central longitudinal axis 514. The base of the first recess 512 may be a portion of the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. Further, a first magnet 516 may be disposed within the first recess 512. The first magnet 516 may be affixed to, or otherwise disposed on, the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The first magnet 516 may extend from the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 into the first recess 512. Moreover, the first magnet 516 may be flanked on at least three sides by the inner cushioning layer 510. In another aspect, the first magnet 516 may be embedded in the inner cushioning layer 510, e.g., within a pocket formed therein. The first magnet 516 may be a permanent magnet. The first magnet 516 may be made from iron, nickel and cobalt and their alloys, some alloys of rare-earth metals, or a combination thereof. Further, the first magnet 516 may be made from neodymium. The first magnet 516 may have a grade of N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, or N52.

[0028] Additionally, the first magnet 516 may have a diameter that is greater than or equal to 0.5 inches, such greater than or equal to 0.5625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.75 inches, greater than or equal to 0.8125 inches, greater than or equal to 0.875 inches, or greater than or equal to 1.0 inches. In another aspect, the diameter is less than or equal to 1.5 inches, such as less than or equal to 1.375 inches, less than or equal to 1.3125 inches, less than or equal to 1.25 inches, less than or equal to 1.1875 inches, less than or equal to 1.125 inches, or less than or equal to 1.0625 inches. In another aspect, the diameter can be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of the diameter described herein.

[0029] In a particular aspect, the inner cushioning layer 510 may have a thickness, T.sub.CL, and the first magnet 516 may have a thickness, T.sub.M1, and T.sub.M1 may be substantially equal to T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be greater than or equal to 90% T.sub.CL, such as greater than or equal to 92.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 95.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 97.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.5% T.sub.CL, or greater than or equal to 99.9% T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be less than or equal to 110% T.sub.CL, such as less than or equal to 107.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 105.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 100.5% T.sub.CL, or less than or equal to 100.1% T.sub.CL. In still another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M1 described herein. In another aspect, the first magnet 516 may be backed by a backing plate, or spacer, (not shown) and in such a case, T.sub.M1 can include the thickness of the first magnet 516 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0030] In another aspect, the first recess 512 may have a depth, D.sub.R1, measured from the outer surface of the inner cushioning layer 510 to the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 and T.sub.M1 may be substantially equal to D.sub.R1. In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be greater than or equal to 90% D.sub.R1, such as greater than or equal to 92.5% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 95.0% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 97.5% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 98.0% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 98.5% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 99.0% D.sub.R1, greater than or equal to 99.5% D.sub.R1, or greater than or equal to 99.9% D.sub.R1. In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be less than or equal to 110% D.sub.R1, such as less than or equal to 107.5% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 105.0% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 102.5% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 102.0% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 101.5% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 101.0% D.sub.R1, less than or equal to 100.5% D.sub.R1, or less than or equal to 100.1% D.sub.R1. In still another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M1 described herein. In an aspect in which a backing plate, or spacer, is included behind the first magnet 516, T.sub.M1 can include the thickness of the first magnet 516 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0031] In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be greater than or equal to 0.0625 inches, such as greater than or equal to 0.125 inches. Moreover, T.sub.M1 may be less than or equal to 0.25 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.1875 inches. It is to be understood that T.sub.M1 may be within a range between and including any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M1 described herein.

[0032] As further illustrated in FIG. 4, the quick release leg guard 102 may include a second recess 518 formed in the inner cushioning layer 510 of the shin guard 502. The second recess 518 may be formed near the second end 504 of the shin guard 500 and may be offset from the central longitudinal axis 514 by a first offset distance, D.sub.O1. The base of the second recess 518 may be a portion of the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The quick release leg guard 102 may also include a third recess 520 formed in the inner cushioning layer 510 of the shin guard 502. The third recess 520 may be formed near the second end 504 of the shin guard 500 and may be offset from the central longitudinal axis 514 by a second offset distance, D.sub.O2. In a particular aspect, D.sub.O1 may be substantially equal to D.sub.O2. The base of the third recess 520 may be a portion of the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. As shown, the third recess 520 and the second recess 518 may be aligned with each other along a transverse axis 521 that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 514.

[0033] A second magnet 522 may be disposed within the second recess 518. The second magnet 522 may be affixed to, or otherwise disposed on, the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The second magnet 522 may extend from the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 into the second recess 518. Moreover, the second magnet 522 may be flanked on at least three sides by the inner cushioning layer 510. In another aspect, the second magnet 522 may be embedded in the inner cushioning layer 510, e.g., within a pocket formed therein. A third magnet 524 may be disposed within the third recess 520. The third magnet 524 may be affixed to, or otherwise disposed on, the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The third magnet 524 may extend from the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 into the third recess 520. Moreover, the third magnet 524 may be flanked on at least three sides by the inner cushioning layer 510. In another aspect, the third magnet 524 may be embedded in the inner cushioning layer 510, e.g., within a pocket formed therein. The second magnet 522 and the third magnet 524 may be aligned with each other along the transverse axis 521. The second and third magnets 522, 524 may be permanent magnets. The second and third magnets 522, 524 may be made from iron, nickel and cobalt and their alloys, some alloys of rare-earth metals, or a combination thereof. Further, the second and third magnets 522, 524 may be made from neodymium. The second and third magnets 522, 524 may have a grade of N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, or N52. The grade of the second and third magnets 522, 524 may be the same as the grade of the first magnet 516 or different from the grade of the first magnet 516.

[0034] Additionally, the second and third magnets 522, 524 may have a diameter that is greater than or equal to 0.5 inches, such greater than or equal to 0.5625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.75 inches, greater than or equal to 0.8125 inches, greater than or equal to 0.875 inches, or greater than or equal to 1.0 inches. In another aspect, the diameter is less than or equal to 1.5 inches, such as less than or equal to 1.375 inches, less than or equal to 1.3125 inches, less than or equal to 1.25 inches, less than or equal to 1.1875 inches, less than or equal to 1.125 inches, or less than or equal to 1.0625 inches. In another aspect, the diameter can be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of the diameter described herein. The diameter of the second and third magnets 522, 524 may be the same as the diameter of the first magnet 516 or different from the diameter of the first magnet 516.

[0035] In a particular aspect, the second magnet 522 may have a thickness, T.sub.M2, and the third magnet 524 may have a thickness, T.sub.M3. T.sub.M2 may be substantially equal to T.sub.M3 and both T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be substantially equal to T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be greater than or equal to 90% T.sub.CL, such as greater than or equal to 92.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 95.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 97.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.5% T.sub.CL, or greater than or equal to 99.9% T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be less than or equal to 110% T.sub.CL, such as less than or equal to 107.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 105.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 100.5% T.sub.CL, or less than or equal to 100.1% T.sub.CL. In still another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 described herein.

[0036] In another aspect, the second magnet 522 and the third magnet 524 may be backed by a respective backing plate, or spacer, (not shown) and in such a case, T.sub.M2 can include the thickness of the second magnet 522 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer, and T.sub.M3 can include the thickness of the third magnet 524 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0037] In another aspect, the second recess 518 may have a depth, D.sub.R2, measured from the outer surface of the inner cushioning layer 510 to the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The third recess 520 may have a depth, D.sub.R3, measured from the outer surface of the inner cushioning layer 510 to the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. D.sub.R2 may be substantially equal to D.sub.R3. Moreover, D.sub.R2 and D.sub.R3 may substantially equal to T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3.

[0038] In another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be greater than or equal to 90% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3) such as greater than or equal to 92.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 95.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 97.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 98.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 98.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 99.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), greater than or equal to 99.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), or greater than or equal to 99.9% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3). In another aspect, T.sub.M1 may be less than or equal to 110% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), such as less than or equal to 107.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 105.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 102.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 102.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 101.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 101.0% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), less than or equal to 100.5% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3), or less than or equal to 100.1% D.sub.R2 (or D.sub.R3). In still another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 described herein. In an aspect in which a backing plate, or spacer, is included behind the second magnet 522 and a backing plate, or spacer, is included behind the third magnet 524, T.sub.M2 can include the thickness of the second magnet 522 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer, and T.sub.M3 can include the thickness of the third magnet 524 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0039] In another aspect, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be greater than or equal to 0.0625 inches, such as greater than or equal to 0.125 inches. Moreover, over T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be less than or equal to 0.25 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.1875 inches. It is to be understood that T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be within a range between and including any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 described herein. Further, T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3 may be the same as T.sub.M1 or different from T.sub.M1.

[0040] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 further indicate that the quick release leg guard 102 may include a toe guard 526 that may be connected to the shin guard 500 by a first soft hinge 528. The first soft hinge 528 may be connected to the shin guard 500 near the first end 502 of the shin guard 500 and the toe guard 526 may be connected to the first soft hinge 528. The toe guard 526 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. In a particular aspect, the first soft hinge 528 may be made from a flexible fabric such as neoprene. The toe guard 526 may include an outer surface 530 and an inner surface 532. The toe guard 526 may include an inner cushioning layer 534 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface 532 of the toe guard 526. The inner cushioning layer 534 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0041] The quick release leg guard 102 may also include a knee guard 536 that may be connected to the shin guard 500 by a second soft hinge 538. The second soft hinge 538 may be connected to the shin guard 500 near the second end 504 of the shin guard 500 and the knee guard 536 may be connected to the second soft hinge 538. The knee guard 536 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. In a particular aspect, the second soft hinge 538 may be made from a flexible fabric such as neoprene. The knee guard 536 may include an outer surface 540 and an inner surface 542. The knee guard 536 may include an inner cushioning layer 544 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface 542 of the knee guard 536. The inner cushioning layer 544 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0042] As further illustrated, the quick release leg guard 102 may further include a thigh guard 546 that may be connected to the knee guard 536 by a third soft hinge 548. The third soft hinge 548 may be connected to the knee guard 536 opposite the second soft hinge 538 and the thigh guard 546 may be connected to the third soft hinge 548 opposite the knee guard 536. The thigh guard 546 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. The third soft hinge 548 may be made from a flexible fabric such as neoprene. The thigh guard 546 may include an outer surface 550 and an inner surface 552. The thigh guard 546 may include an inner cushioning layer 554 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface 552 of the shin guard 502. The inner cushioning layer 554 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, the quick release leg guard 102 may include a fourth recess 556 formed in the inner cushioning layer 554 of the thigh guard 546. The fourth recess 556 may be formed along the central longitudinal axis 514 of the quick release leg guard 102 and may be aligned with the first recess 512. The base of the fourth recess 556 may be a portion of the inner surface 552 of the thigh guard 546.

[0044] A fourth magnet 558 may be disposed within the fourth recess 556. The fourth magnet 558 may be affixed to, or otherwise disposed on, the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502. The fourth magnet 558 may extend from the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 into the fourth recess 556. Moreover, the fourth magnet 558 may be flanked on at least three sides by the inner cushioning layer 554. In another aspect, the fourth magnet 558 may be embedded in the inner cushioning layer 510, e.g., within a pocket formed therein. The fourth magnet 558 may be a permanent magnet. The fourth magnet 558 may be made from iron, nickel and cobalt and their alloys, some alloys of rare-earth metals, or a combination thereof. Further, the fourth magnet 558 may be made from neodymium. The fourth magnet 558 may have a grade of N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, or N52. The grade of the fourth magnet 558 may be the same as the grade of the first, second, and third magnets 512, 522, 524. The grade of the fourth magnet 558 may be the same as the grade of the first magnet 516 and different from the grade of the second and third magnets 522, 524. Also, the grade of the fourth magnet 558 may be different from the grade of the first magnet 516 and the grade of the second and third magnets 522, 524.

[0045] Additionally, the fourth magnet 558 may have a diameter that is greater than or equal to 0.5 inches, such greater than or equal to 0.5625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.625 inches, greater than or equal to 0.75 inches, greater than or equal to 0.8125 inches, greater than or equal to 0.875 inches, or greater than or equal to 1.0 inches. In another aspect, the diameter is less than or equal to 1.5 inches, such as less than or equal to 1.375 inches, less than or equal to 1.3125 inches, less than or equal to 1.25 inches, less than or equal to 1.1875 inches, less than or equal to 1.125 inches, or less than or equal to 1.0625 inches. In another aspect, the diameter can be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of the diameter described herein. The diameter of the fourth magnet 558 may be the same as the diameter of the first, second, and third magnets 512, 522, 524. The diameter of the fourth magnet 558 may be the same as the diameter of the first magnet 516 and different from the diameter of the second and third magnets 522, 524. Moreover, the diameter of the fourth magnet 558 may be different from the diameter of the first, second, and third magnets 512, 522, 524.

[0046] In a particular aspect, the inner cushioning layer 554 may have a thickness, T.sub.CL, and the fourth magnet 558 may have a thickness, T.sub.M4, and T.sub.M4 may be substantially equal to T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be greater than or equal to 90% T.sub.CL, such as greater than or equal to 92.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 95.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 97.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 98.5% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.0% T.sub.CL, greater than or equal to 99.5% T.sub.CL, or greater than or equal to 99.9% T.sub.CL. In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be less than or equal to 110% T.sub.CL, such as less than or equal to 107.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 105.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 102.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.5% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 101.0% T.sub.CL, less than or equal to 100.5% T.sub.CL, or less than or equal to 100.1% T.sub.CL. In still another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M4 described herein. In another aspect, the fourth magnet 558 may be backed by a backing plate, or spacer, (not shown) and in such a case, T.sub.M4 can include the thickness of the fourth magnet 558 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0047] In another aspect, the fourth recess 556 may have a depth, D.sub.R4, measured from the outer surface of the inner cushioning layer 554 to the inner surface 508 of the shin guard 502 and T.sub.M4 may be substantially equal to D.sub.R4. In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be greater than or equal to 90% D.sub.R4, such as greater than or equal to 92.5% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 95.0% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 97.5% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 98.0% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 98.5% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 99.0% D.sub.R4, greater than or equal to 99.5% D.sub.R4, or greater than or equal to 99.9% D.sub.R4. In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be less than or equal to 110% D.sub.R4, such as less than or equal to 107.5% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 105.0% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 102.5% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 102.0% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 101.5% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 101.0% D.sub.R4, less than or equal to 100.5% D.sub.R4, or less than or equal to 100.1% D.sub.R4. In still another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M4 described herein. In an aspect in which a backing plate, or spacer, is included behind the fourth magnet 558, T.sub.M4 can include the thickness of the fourth magnet 558 plus the thickness of the backing plate, or spacer.

[0048] In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be greater than or equal to 0.0625 inches, such as greater than or equal to 0.125 inches. Moreover, over T.sub.M4 may be less than or equal to 0.25 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.1875 inches. It is to be understood that T.sub.M4 may be within a range between and including any of the minimum and maximum values of T.sub.M4 described herein. Further, T.sub.M4 may be the same as T.sub.M1, T.sub.M2, and T.sub.M3. T.sub.M4 may be the same is T.sub.M1 and different from T.sub.M2 and T.sub.M3. In another aspect, T.sub.M4 may be different from T.sub.M1, T.sub.M2, and T.sub.M3.

[0049] As further shown in FIG. 4, the first magnet 516 may be located near a lower end 560 of the quick release leg guard 102, the second magnet 522 and the third magnet 524 may be centrally located within the quick release leg guard 102, and the fourth magnet 558 may be located near an upper end 562 of the quick release leg guard 202. FIG. 4 also shows that the shin guard 506 of the quick release leg guard 102 may also include an alignment recess 560 formed between the second and third magnets 522, 524 along the longitudinal axis 514 of the quick release leg guard 102. The alignment recess 560 may be sized and shaped to receive a complimentary alignment feature formed on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104, described below. The alignment recess 560 may have a length, L.sub.AR, that may extend at least partially along the length of the shin guard 502, L.sub.SG, measured along the longitudinal axis 514.

[0050] In a particular aspect, L.sub.AR, may be greater than or equal to 10% L.sub.SG, such as greater than or equal to 15% L.sub.SG, or greater than or equal to 20% L.sub.SG. Conversely, L.sub.AR may be less than or equal to 75% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 70% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 65% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 60% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 55% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 50% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 45% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 40% L.sub.SG, less than or equal to 35% L.sub.SG, or less than or equal to 35% L.sub.SG. In another aspect, L.sub.AR may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of L.sub.AR described herein.

[0051] In another aspect, the alignment recess 560 may have a width, W.sub.AR, and a ratio of W.sub.AR to L.sub.AR (W.sub.AR:L.sub.AR) may be greater than or equal to 0.05. Further, W.sub.AR:L.sub.AR may be greater than or equal to 0.06, such as greater than or equal to 0.07, greater than or equal to 0.08, greater than or equal to 0.09, or greater than or equal to 0.10. In another aspect, W.sub.AR:L.sub.AR may be less than or equal to 0.25, such as less than or equal to 0.225, less than or equal to 0.20, or less than or equal to 0.15. In yet another aspect, W.sub.AR:L.sub.AR may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of W.sub.AR:L.sub.AR described herein.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, details concerning the construction of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 are illustrated. The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include a generally cylindrical body 700 having a lower end 702 and an upper end 704. The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may be a fabric that is flexible and stretchable and may lay flat when placed on a flat surface. The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may be made from spandex, nylon, latex fibers, or a combination thereof. The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include an outer surface 706 and an inner surface 708.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 6, the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include an inner layer 710 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface 708 of the body 700. In a particular aspect, the inner layer 710 may be a fabric that is flexible and stretchable. Further, the inner layer 710 may be made from spandex, nylon, latex fibers, or a combination thereof. FIG. 6 indicates that the inner layer 710 may be formed with a first pocket 712 near the lower end 702 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. A first magnetic fastener 714 may be disposed within the first pocket 712. As shown, the first pocket 712 and the first magnetic fastener 714 may be disposed along a central longitudinal axis 716. In one aspect, the first magnetic fastener 714 may be a steel strike plate. In another aspect, the first magnetic fastener 714 may be a magnet. In still another aspect, the first magnetic fastener 714 may be a disk of magnetic putty. The use of magnetic putty may increase the comfort of the player wearing the leg guard mounting sleeve 104.

[0054] FIG. 6 also shows that the inner layer 710 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include a second pocket 718 and a third pocket 720 centrally located near a midpoint of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The second pocket 718 may be offset from the central longitudinal axis 716 by a first offset distance, D.sub.O1. The third pocket 720 may be offset from the central longitudinal axis 716 by a second offset distance, D.sub.O2. In a particular aspect, D.sub.O1 may be substantially equal to D.sub.O2.

[0055] As shown, the second pocket 718 and the third pocket 720 are aligned with each other along a transverse axis 722 that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 716. A second magnetic fastener 724 may be disposed within the second pocket 718 and a third magnetic fastener 726 may be disposed within the third pocket 720. The second magnetic fastener 724 and the third magnetic fastener 726 may be aligned with each other along the transverse axis 722. In one aspect, the second and third magnetic fasteners 724, 726 may include steel strike plates. In another aspect, the second and third magnetic fasteners 724, 726 may include magnets. In still another aspect, the second and third magnetic fasteners 724, 726 may be a disk of magnetic putty. The use of magnetic putty may increase the comfort of the player wearing the leg guard mounting sleeve 104.

[0056] FIG. 6 further shows that the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include a fourth pocket 728 in the inner layer 710 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The fourth pocket 728 may be formed near the upper end 704 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. Further, the fourth pocket 728 may be aligned with the first pocket 712 along the longitudinal axis 716. The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may also include a fourth magnetic fastener 730 disposed within the fourth pocket 728. The fourth magnetic fastener 730 may be aligned with the first magnetic fastener 714 along the longitudinal axis 716. In one aspect, the fourth magnetic fastener 730 may be a steel strike plate. In another aspect, the fourth magnetic fastener 730 may be a magnet. In another aspect, the fourth magnetic fastener 730 may be a disk of magnetic putty. The use of magnetic putty may increase the comfort of the player wearing the leg guard mounting sleeve 104.

[0057] Referring back to FIG. 5, the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may include an alignment feature 732 extending from a front of the outer surface 706 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The alignment feature 732 may be a flexible rib affixed to, or sewn into, the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 and may extend outward from the outer surface 706 of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. Further, the alignment feature 732 may extend at least partially along the length of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 along the longitudinal axis 716 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. In a particular aspect, the alignment feature 732 may fit into and engage the alignment recess 560 formed on the shin guard 506 of the quick release leg guard 102 between the second and third magnets 522, 524.

[0058] The alignment feature 732 may have a length, L.sub.AF, that may extend at least partially along the length of the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104, L.sub.MS, measured along the longitudinal axis 716 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 while the body 700 of the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 is relaxed, i.e., not stretched longitudinally.

[0059] In a particular aspect, L.sub.AF, may be greater than or equal to 10% L.sub.MS, such as greater than or equal to 15% L.sub.MS, or greater than or equal to 20% L.sub.MS. Conversely, L.sub.AF may be less than or equal to less than or equal to 50% L.sub.MS, less than or equal to 45% L.sub.MS, less than or equal to 40% L.sub.MS, less than or equal to 35% L.sub.MS, or less than or equal to 35% L.sub.MS. In another aspect, L.sub.AF may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of L.sub.AF described herein.

[0060] In another aspect, the alignment recess 560 may have a width, W.sub.AF, and a ratio of W.sub.AF to L.sub.AF (W.sub.AF:L.sub.AF may be greater than or equal to 0.05. Further, W.sub.AF:L.sub.AF may be greater than or equal to 0.06, such as greater than or equal to 0.07, greater than or equal to 0.08, greater than or equal to 0.09, or greater than or equal to 0.10. In another aspect, W.sub.AF:L.sub.AF may be less than or equal to 0.25, such as less than or equal to 0.225, less than or equal to 0.20, or less than or equal to 0.15. In yet another aspect, W.sub.AF:L.sub.AF may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of W.sub.AF:L.sub.AF described herein.

[0061] The leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may be adapted to stretch longitudinally and radially to fit relatively tightly around an athlete's leg when worn. Moreover, when the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 is properly worn, as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic fasteners 714, 724, 726, 730 may be aligned at several different positions along the athlete's leg. For example, the first magnetic fastener 714 may be locate above the athlete's ankle. The second and third magnetic fasteners 724, 726 may be located closer to, but below, the athlete's knee. The fourth magnetic fastener 730 may be located above the athlete's knee.

[0062] When the quick release leg guard 102 is assembled, or engaged, with the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 (as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2), the first magnet 516 on the quick release leg guard 102 can engage the first magnetic fastener 714 on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The second magnet 522 on the quick release leg guard 102 can engage the second magnetic fastener 724 on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The third magnet 524 on the quick release leg guard 102 can engage the third magnetic fastener 726 on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. Moreover, the fourth magnet 558 on the quick release leg guard 102 can engage the fourth magnetic fastener 730 on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104.

[0063] Each magnet/magnetic fastener pairing 516/714, 522/724, 524/726, 558/730 may include a pull force, F.sub.P, that is the amount of force required to disassemble each magnet/magnetic fastener pairing 516/714, 522/724, 524/726, 558/730. In a particular aspect, F.sub.P may be greater than or equal to 5.0 pounds, such as greater than or equal to 7.5 pounds, or greater than or equal to 10.0 pounds. In another aspect, F.sub.P may be less than or equal to 20.0 pounds, such as less than or equal to 17.5 pounds, less than or equal to 15.0 pounds, or less than or equal to 12.5 pounds. It is to be understood that F.sub.P may also be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of F.sub.P described herein.

[0064] To operate the quick release leg guard assembly 100, an athlete may first put a leg guard mounting sleeve 104 on each leg (as shown in FIG. 2). Thereafter, the athlete may lower his or her trouser legs over each leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The athlete may then bring a quick release leg guard 102 up to each leg in front of a leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The magnetic attraction between the magnets 516, 522, 524, 558 and the magnetic fasteners 714, 724, 726, 730 may snap the quick release leg guard 102 to the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. The alignment feature 732 on the leg guard mounting sleeve 104 may cooperate with the alignment recess 560 on the quick release leg guard 102 to maintain proper alignment of the quick release leg guard 102 with respect to the leg guard mounting sleeve 104. In lieu of the alignment feature 732 and alignment recess 560, if the magnetic fasteners 714, 724, 726, 730 are magnets, the magnets 516, 522, 524, 558 on the quick release leg guard 102 will self-center with the magnetic fasteners 714, 724, 726, 730 to maintain proper alignment of the quick release leg guard 102 with respect to the leg guard mounting sleeve 104.

[0065] Accordingly, the quick release leg guard assembly acts as a quick release protective assembly that includes a fabric sleeve, e.g., the leg guard mounting sleeve 104, that is adapted to be worn on an athlete's limb, such as a leg or arm. A piece of protective equipment, e.g., the quick release leg guard 102, may be placed over the baseball trousers and removable attached to the outer surface of the fabric sleeve disposed under the trousers by magnets and magnetic fasteners embedded in both the sleeve and the protective equipment. The piece of protective equipment may be the quick release leg guard 102 for baseball players and softball players. In another aspect, the piece of protective equipment may be a shin guard for soccer players and field hockey players and the sleeve may be adapted to be worn just on the athlete's lower leg.

[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 7 through 9, a second exemplary embodiment of the quick release leg guard assembly is shown and is generally designated 800. As best shown in these figures, the quick release leg guard assembly 800 includes a leg guard 804 (FIG. 9) and a mounting sleeve 808 (FIGS. 7 and 8). As described in connection with the first embodiment, a wearer, e.g., a baseball catcher, can don and wear the mounting sleeve 808 on each leg under his baseball trousers, and the leg guard 804 over the wearer's trousers in the manner described below.

[0067] As best shown in FIG. 8, the mounting sleeve 808 is sized to extend between the wearer's ankle and knee and is typically slightly shorter than the length of the leg guard 804. Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the mounting sleeve 808 includes a mounting surface 812 that is of a generally truncated V-shape and includes a width that progressively decreases from one end to another, i.e., from its top end in proximity to the knee, to its bottom end in proximity to the ankle, thereby allowing for better conformity with the anatomy (i.e., with the lower leg) of the wearer. In certain applications, the mounting sleeve 808 may be arranged to extend higher than is shown in FIG. 8, and may extend over the knee of the wearer. As best shown in FIG. 7, each mounting sleeve 808 may also include a fabric liner 816 formed of any suitable elastomeric or textile material. The mounting sleeve 808 may be arranged for attachment to the wearer's leg with the mounting surface 812 formed to the contour of the wearer's leg and oriented to cover and provide protection to the wearer's shin. The mounting surface 812 may be formed of any suitable material. For example, the mounting surface 812 may be formed of a suitable soft rubber that is comfortable against the skin of the wearer and is waterproof to facilitate washing and cleaning. The mounting surface 814 may provide a sufficient degree of rigidity for enabling mounting of the leg guard 804 thereto, but also may provide a sufficient degree of flexibility to enable the wearer to wrap the mounting surface 812 around the contour of the wearer's leg. One such suitable material that meets these requirements is silicone, but other materials are contemplated within the scope of the invention. Although the mounting surface 812 is illustrated as having a web-like construction, such a construction is merely exemplary and other constructions are contemplated so long as the mounting surface 812 provides the requisite degree of rigidity for attachment of the leg guard 804 thereto and flexibility for providing mobility during use. The mounting surface 812 may include a pair of opposed closed loops 828 extending laterally from each side of the mounting surface 812. Preferably, the closed loops 828 may be embedded in the side edges of the mounting surface 812. However, other methods for joining the closed loops 828 to the mounting surface 812 are contemplated. The closed loops 828 may be formed of any suitable rigid plastic material to add rigidity to the mounting surface 812.

[0068] One or more sleeve fasteners 814 may be disposed on the mounting surface 812 of the mounting sleeve 808. In this manner, the fabric liner 816 may be separated from the mounting surface 812 and machine washed and cleaned to avoid the sleeve fasteners 814 from generating excessive noise or causing damage to the washing machine during cleaning. As best shown in FIG. 7, four sleeve fasteners 814 are disposed on the mounting surface 812 of the mounting sleeve 808, but a greater or fewer number could be employed within the scope of the invention. As best illustrated in FIG. 7A, in one aspect, each sleeve fastener 814 may be formed of a magnetically attractive material, such as a ferrous metal, and may include a recessed area in the shape of a cup having a bottom wall and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, the side wall having a diameter. Thus, each sleeve fastener 814 is sized to receive and accept therein a guard fastener 848 located on the leg guard 804, the guard fastener being in the form of a magnet having a cylindrical shape. In this manner, the sleeve fastener 814 with the guard fastener 848 disposed therein act against lateral forces that may occur during use of the leg guard assembly 800 to prevent unwanted separation of the leg guard 804 from the mounting sleeve 800. In another less preferred aspect, each sleeve fastener 814 may be a magnet.

[0069] The fabric liner 816 may be made of a supple material such as nylon or any suitable elastomeric or textile material which conforms itself to the anatomy of the wearer to enhance the adjustability of the quick release leg guard assembly 800 on the wearer's leg during attachment, use, and removal without unnecessarily hindering the wearer's mobility. The fabric liner 816 may include a web portion 820 arranged for placement over the wearer's calf during use. Fastening flaps 824 may extend laterally from the web portion 820 and may be arranged to extend through the closed loops 828 disposed on opposite sides of the mounting surface 812. Hook and loop fasteners may be respectively disposed on the rear surface of the web portion 820 as well as on the rear surfaces of the fastening flaps 824 to enable attachment of the leg guard mounting sleeve 808 to the wearer's leg and to minimize movement of the leg guard mounting sleeve 808 during use.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 9, details concerning the construction of the leg guard 804 are illustrated. As shown in FIG. 9, the leg guard 804 may include a shin guard 832. The shin guard may be curved to the contour of the lower leg of a wearer. Further, the shin guard 832 may be semi-cylindrical. The shin guard 832 may be a single molded piece or it may include multiple molded pieces connected together with rivets or other appropriate fasteners. The shin guard 832 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. The shin guard 832 may be formed of any suitable impact-absorbing material to provide protection to the skin. Further, the shin guard 832 may include an inner cushioning layer 840 affixed to the inner surface of the shin guard 832. The inner cushioning layer 840 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0071] One or more guard fasteners 848 may be disposed on or within the inner cushioning layer 840. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, four guard fasteners 848 are shown located on the inner cushioning layer 840. The guard fasteners 848 may be affixed to, or otherwise disposed on the inner cushioning layer 840. In another aspect, the guard fasteners 848 may be embedded in the inner cushioning layer 840. More preferably, the guard fasteners 848 may be permanent magnets. The guard fasteners 848 may be made from iron, nickel and cobalt and their alloys, some alloys of rare-earth metals, or a combination thereof. Further, the guard fasteners 848 may be made from neodymium. The guard fasteners 848 may have a grade of N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, or N52. Additionally, the guard fasteners 848 may be cylindrical in shape and having a diameter that is greater than or equal to 0.5 inches and less than or equal to 1.0 inches.

[0072] Alternatively, each of the guard fasteners 848 may be formed of a magnetically attractive material, such as a ferrous material and may include a recessed area in the shape of a cup having a bottom wall and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, the side wall having a diameter. Thus, similar to the arrangement discussed above in connection with FIG. 7A, under this aspect, each guard fastener 848 may be sized to accept therein a sleeve fastener 814 in the form of a magnet having a cylindrical shape. In this manner, the guard fastener 848 with the sleeve fastener 814 disposed therein acts against lateral forces that may act upon the assembly 800 during use to cause unwanted separation of the leg guard 804 from the sleeve 808.

[0073] FIG. 9 further indicates that the leg guard 804 may include a toe guard 852 that may be connected to the shin guard 832 by a first soft hinge 856. The toe guard 852 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. In a particular aspect, the first soft hinge 856 may be made from a flexible fabric such as neoprene. The toe guard 852 may include an inner cushioning layer disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface of the toe guard 852. The inner cushioning layer may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0074] The leg guard 804 may also include a knee guard 860 that may be connected to the shin guard 840 by a second soft hinge 864. The knee guard 860 may be made from a relatively stiff and shatterproof polymer, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination of both. In a particular aspect, the second soft hinge 864 may be made from a flexible fabric such as neoprene. The knee guard 860 may include an inner cushioning layer 868 disposed on, or otherwise affixed to, the inner surface of the knee guard 860. The inner cushioning layer 868 may be made from a relatively soft, cushioning material, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), or a combination of both.

[0075] The mounting sleeve 808 may be adapted to stretch longitudinally and radially to fit relatively tightly around an athlete's leg when worn. Moreover, when the mounting sleeve 808 is properly worn, the guard fasteners 848 of the leg guard 804 may be aligned with the sleeve fasteners 814 of the mounting sleeve 808. When the leg guard 804 is assembled, or engaged, with the mounting sleeve 808, the guard fasteners 848 (e.g., magnets) on the leg guard 804 can engage the sleeve fasteners 814 (e.g., formed of a ferrous metal) on the mounting sleeve 808. Moreover, as best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the sleeve fasteners 814 and guard fasteners 848 are positioned at sufficient distances away from the vertical centerline of sleeve 808 and leg guard 804, respectively, such that in the event a catcher is playing on one or both knees, discomfort and injury is avoided resulting from the fasteners digging into the catcher's knees and legs.

[0076] Each magnet/ferrous metal pairing may include a pull force, F.sub.P, that is the amount of force required to disassemble each magnet/ferrous metal pairing. In a particular aspect, F.sub.P may be within a range of greater than or equal to 5.0 pounds and less than or equal to 20.0 pounds.

[0077] To operate the quick release leg guard assembly 800, a wearer may first put a mounting sleeve 808 on each leg (as shown in FIG. 8). Thereafter, the wearer may lower his or her trouser legs over each mounting sleeve 808. The wearer may then bring a leg guard 804 up to each leg in front of a mounting sleeve 808. The magnetic attraction between the magnets 848 (for example) and the ferrous material 814 (for example) may snap the leg guard 804 to the mounting sleeve 808. Accordingly, the quick release leg guard assembly 800 acts as a quick release protective assembly that includes a mounting sleeve 808, that is adapted to be worn on a wearer's limb, such as a leg or arm. A piece of protective equipment, e.g., the leg guard 804, may be removably attached to the outer surface of the sleeve by magnets and magnetic fasteners formed of a ferrous magnetic metal embedded in both the sleeve and the protective equipment. The piece of protective equipment may be the quick release leg guard 800 for baseball players and softball players. In another aspect, the piece of protective equipment may be a shin guard for soccer players and field hockey players and the sleeve may be adapted to be worn just on the athlete's lower leg.

[0078] All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor in furthering the art. As such, they are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure.

[0079] It is to be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art may make many variations and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.